Bi-directional Impact Absorbing End Stop for Roller Blinds
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spindle&nut end stop systems for roller blinds primarily provide shock absorption in one direction and can displace the end stop due to direct contact with springs, lacking bi-directional impact cushioning and stability.
Innovation Solution
A bi-directional impact absorbing end stop system with a single impact absorber, comprising a torsion spring connected between a driven member and a stationary member, allowing kinematic energy absorption during both lowering and raising operations, using a flexible elastic body to maintain end stop position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a compression spring is interposed between a fixed stop and the movable nut to cushion impact, then the impact impulse is somewhat dampened, but the system can only absorb shock in one direction and the end stop is displaced by the impact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic impact absorption system where a movable impact absorption element (second element) travels along the shaft and can be positioned at different locations to absorb impacts from either direction. This dynamic positioning capability allows the system to adapt to impacts occurring at different points in the mechanism's operation, enabling bi-directional cushioning that was not achievable with fixed compression springs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary impact absorption element that acts as a mediator between the travelling nut and the end stops. This intermediate element absorbs the impact energy through friction and mechanical interaction, preventing direct displacement of the end stops while cushioning the blow. The intermediary element can be positioned optimally to handle impacts from either direction, providing versatile protection.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a torsion spring is arranged to engage the travelling nut directly to absorb impact, then friction prevents further rotation, but the system can only impact the shock in one direction and the end stop is displaced by the impact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic impact absorption system where a movable impact absorption element (second element) travels along the shaft and can be positioned at different locations to absorb impacts from either direction. This dynamic positioning capability allows the system to adapt to impacts occurring at different points in the mechanism's operation, enabling bi-directional cushioning that was not achievable with fixed compression springs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary impact absorption element that acts as a mediator between the travelling nut and the end stops. This intermediate element absorbs the impact energy through friction and mechanical interaction, preventing direct displacement of the end stops while cushioning the blow. The intermediary element can be positioned optimally to handle impacts from either direction, providing versatile protection.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single impact absorber is used to provide bi-directional cushioning, then both lowering and raising operations benefit from shock absorption, but the system complexity increases compared to traditional spring systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal impact absorption system where a single movable impact absorption element can handle impacts from both directions (lowering and raising operations). This multi-functional element replaces the need for separate spring systems for each direction, achieving bi-directional protection while actually simplifying the overall system architecture compared to having multiple dedicated components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the impact absorption function for both lowering and raising operations into a single integrated movable element system. By merging the functionality of what would traditionally require separate spring mechanisms into one versatile impact absorption element, the system achieves bi-directional cushioning with reduced component count and simplified structure.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively absorbs shock impacts in both directions, ensuring reliable operation and maintaining the end stop position, enhancing the overall performance of the roller blind by providing bi-directional cushioning.
Implementation Method 1
a single impact absorber flexibly connecting the driven member with the stationary member such that at least a portion of kinematic energy generated by the travelling member interacting with any one of the end stops is cushioned or absorbed
Implementation Method 2
the elastic body comprises a torsion spring
Data Source
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AI summary
A covering for an architectural opening comprising a driven member connected to the at least one covering member and able to displace the covering member between an open and a closed position, a pair of first and second stationary end stops spaced apart on a stationary member, a travelling member movably arranged on the stationary member between the first and second end stops and drivable by the driven member and a single impact absorber flexibly connecting the driven member with the stationary member such that at least a portion of kinematic energy generated by the travelling member interacting with any one of the end stops is cushioned or absorbed