Window Covering Cord Clip for Edge Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Window coverings with cords extending from the center of the bottom rail obstruct views and pose safety hazards, as they can be accessed by children and pets, necessitating a solution to manage cord orientation and length.
Innovation Solution
A clip system that attaches to the bottom rail of window coverings, rerouting cords to exit from the edge instead of the center, utilizing various fastening mechanisms and guide paths like eyelets, spiralets, slots, and collars to support and direct the cords, reducing their visible length and accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cords extend from the center of the bottom rail, then the cord brake can hold the cords in position, but the cords block the view out through the window and pose safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by routing cords from a central location to a lateral edge location. The cord management system includes a cord holder that attaches to the bottom rail and redirects cords horizontally from the center to the edge, then vertically downward. This spatial reconfiguration moves cords from a harmful central position to a safer lateral position, eliminating view obstruction while maintaining cord control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a cord holder as an intermediary component between the cord brake and the window. This cord holder system includes a holder body that attaches to the bottom rail and a guide path that directs cords from the center to the edge. The intermediary cord holder manages the cord routing, separating the cord control function from the view obstruction problem, and providing a safe discharge location for cords.
2Ease of operation
If cords extend down from the bottom rail, then the lift function is achieved, but the cords can be accessed by children and pets creating safety concerns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by redirecting cords from a vertical descent from the center to a lateral route along the edge. The cord holder system guides cords horizontally from the center to the lateral edge of the bottom rail, then vertically downward along the edge. This spatial reconfiguration increases the horizontal distance cords must travel and keeps them away from the window area where children and pets access the window, reducing accessibility while maintaining lift function.
3Ease of operation
If cords extend from the center of the bottom rail, then the shade can be lifted, but the dangling cord length is maximized increasing safety risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by introducing a horizontal component to cord routing. Instead of cords descending vertically from the center with maximum length, the cord holder system guides cords horizontally from the center to the lateral edge, then vertically downward. This horizontal redirection shortens the vertical dangling length and changes the cord path from a direct vertical descent to a lateral approach, reducing the hazardous dangling portion while maintaining lifting capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A clip is provided which acts as a holder for a lift cord or other cord of a window covering. The clip includes a fastener through which the clip is coupled to a lower portion of the window covering, such as a bottom rail of the window covering. The clip also includes a guide path which supports a portion of the cord adjacent to the clip. The clip would typically be coupled to a lower portion of the window covering, such as a bottom rail, at a lateral edge of the bottom rail, so that the cord has a reduced amount of vertical suspension from the bottom rail and is reoriented to a new desired position extending down from the clip on the bottom rail. The guide path can be a partial or complete hole or trough through which the cord is routed.