Arched Cellular Shade Track for Smooth Retraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing window coverings for arched architectural features are complex, expensive to manufacture, and do not perform well in terms of ease of extension and retraction, nor are they adaptable to various arch shapes and sizes.
Innovation Solution
An arched window covering system featuring a head rail mounted to a wall or window frame, with a slider track that supports a cellular shade panel with radially extending cells, allowing for smooth extension and retraction, and a ball joint for remote operation, enabling easy installation and use on various arch shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional rectangular cellular shade is used, then the insulating and light impermeability characteristics are improved, but the shade cannot be used on arched architectural features
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by forming the shade panel in an arched configuration that matches the architectural feature. The cellular structure is constructed with curved cells arranged in an arch shape, allowing the insulating and light-blocking properties of cellular shades to be maintained while adapting to arched windows and doors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the cellular structure from rectangular to arched configuration. The cells are formed with curved surfaces and the overall panel geometry is modified to match the arch shape, while maintaining the insulating and light-impermeable functional characteristics.
2Adaptability or versatility
If known arched window coverings are used, then adaptability to arched features is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the arched shade into multiple cellular segments that can be individually formed and then assembled together. This segmentation allows for simpler manufacturing of individual cell components while achieving the overall arched configuration through systematic assembly of standardized units.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs a universal cellular component that can be configured for different arch shapes and sizes by varying the arrangement and number of cells. The basic cellular unit serves multiple functions: providing insulation, blocking light, and forming the arched shape, reducing the need for specialized components for each application.
3Adaptability or versatility
If known arched window coverings are used, then adaptability to various arch shapes and sizes is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a dynamic lifting mechanism with cords or chains that allow the arched shade to be easily raised and lowered. The cellular structure is designed to flex and move smoothly during operation, maintaining ease of use despite the complex arched geometry. The mechanism allows single-person operation similar to traditional rectangular shades.
Data Source
AI summary
The arched window covering comprises a head rail that is mounted to an architectural feature. A mounting track is mounted to the arched architectural feature and a slider track is snap fit to the mounting track. The slider track includes support portions extending therefrom that slidably support a plurality of sliders such that the sliders can be moved relative to the slider track. The sliders are connected to a shade panel such that movement of the sliders on the slider track results in the extension and retraction of the shade panel.