Roll-up Covering With Magnetic Slat Orientation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current retractable window coverings, such as Venetian blinds, suffer from deficiencies including limited customization options and inefficient rolling mechanisms, which restrict their ability to provide optimal light control and aesthetic appeal.
Innovation Solution
A roll-up window covering system featuring a roller with orthogonal elongate tapes and collapsible hinge segments, allowing for customizable slat length and spacing, and incorporating magnetic connectors for precise control of slat orientation, enabling efficient rolling and unrolling mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional Venetian blinds are used, then the covering can be extended or retracted, but the rolling mechanism is inefficient and customization options are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The covering is divided into multiple slats that can be independently controlled, with each slat capable of being tilted or positioned separately. This segmentation allows for customized light control patterns while simplifying the overall rolling mechanism as each segment follows the same basic structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The slats are designed to be dynamically adjustable, allowing users to change the tilt angle and position of individual slats while the entire assembly rolls up and down. This dynamic capability provides customization options without requiring a completely different structural system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional Venetian blinds are used, then light control is possible, but customization options for slat length and spacing are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The covering is segmented into discrete slats of varying lengths that can be arranged in different configurations. This segmentation enables customization of both slat length and spacing by simply changing the sequence and dimensions of individual segments, without requiring a complex reconfiguration system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for parameter changes in slat dimensions and spacing by providing a set of modular components with different specifications. Users can select and arrange slats with specific lengths and spacing requirements, achieving customization through parameter selection rather than structural complexity.
3Device complexity
If elongate tapes are attached to the roller orthogonally, then the roll-up mechanism is simplified, but precise control of slat orientation may be challenging
Solution Approach 1:
Magnetic connectors serve as an intermediary element between the orthogonally attached tapes and the slats. These magnetic connectors provide a simple attachment mechanism that maintains the orthogonal configuration while enabling precise control of slat orientation through magnetic alignment and positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical alignment systems with magnetic field-based control. Instead of using additional mechanical linkages or adjustment mechanisms to control slat orientation, the system uses magnetic connectors that can be positioned and aligned through magnetic attraction, simplifying the overall mechanism while providing precise control.
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 provides enhanced customization, efficient operation, and improved light control, allowing for a versatile and aesthetically pleasing solution for architectural openings.
Implementation Method 1
first and second magnetic connectors can be disposed opposing one another to control the opening of the covering for the architectural opening. The first magnetic connector can be disposed and movable on an outer face of the first inner elongate tape and the second magnetic connector can be disposed and movable on an outer face of the first outer elongate tape, wherein the first and second magnetic connectors hold the first inner elongate tape and first outer elongate tape together to maintain at least a portion of the window covering in a closed condition.
Data Source
AI summary
A covering for an architectural opening including: a first fabric material including an inner surface, an outer surface, a top end, and a bottom end; a second fabric material separate from the first fabric material including an inner surface, an outer surface, a top end, and a bottom end; and a first stiffener including an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein said bottom end of said first fabric material overlaps and is adhered to the top end of said second fabric material and said inner surface of said stiffener is directly adhered to one of the bottom end of the first fabric material or the top end of the second fabric material. The bottom end of the first fabric material in a configuration is folded over to define a first folded piece of fabric corresponding to a location where the first stiffener is adhered.