Modular Vertical Blind Assembly with Pivotally Connected Slats
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vertical window blinds are limited in their ability to fit non-standard window sizes, obstruct views when fully open, and require unsightly cords and complex support systems, making them less versatile and suitable for renters.
Innovation Solution
A modular vertical blind assembly with interchangeable modules that can span any window width, featuring a head rail and foot rail system with pivotally connected slats that can be raised, lowered, and rotated, eliminating the need for cords and complex supports, and allowing for easy installation and replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional vertical blinds are used, then they can block light when closed, but they obstruct views when fully open and cannot fit non-standard window sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The blind assembly is divided into multiple modular units, each containing a slat and housing. These units can be connected in series to create blinds of various lengths to fit different window sizes, providing adaptability while maintaining the ability to fully retract for unobstructed views
Solution Approach 2:
The slats are designed to be dynamically positionable between a closed position (blocking light) and a fully open position (retracted to provide unobstructed views). The mechanism allows smooth transition between these states, eliminating view obstruction when open
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional vertical blinds are fabricated in few standard widths, then manufacturing is simplified, but they are not suitable for windows that do not conform to standard sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The blind is constructed from standardized modular units that can be assembled in different quantities to create blinds of various lengths. This segmentation allows simplified manufacturing of individual modules while providing custom fit capability for non-standard window sizes through flexible configuration
Solution Approach 2:
Each modular unit is designed as a universal component that can function independently or be combined with other identical units. This universality enables standardized production of modules while allowing customization of the overall blind assembly to fit any window size
3Ease of operation
If conventional vertical blinds include cords and travelling slat supports, then slat movement is controlled, but the appearance becomes unsightly and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the unsightly cords and complex travelling slat support structures from the visible portions of the blind. The control mechanism is simplified and integrated into the housing, reducing visual clutter while maintaining operational control over slat movement
Solution Approach 2:
The slat mechanism is designed to be self-contained within each modular unit, with the housing providing integrated support and control. This self-service design eliminates the need for separate cords and external support structures, reducing both complexity and visual appearance
Data Source
AI summary
A vertical blind assembly module includes a head rail unit with opposite sides and a unit axis extending between the sides, a housing and an axle pivotally connecting the housing to the head rail unit so that the housing can pivot about a pivot axis that is perpendicular to the unit axis. A slat is coiled in the housing so enabling the slat to be extended from the housing a selected distance and retracted into the housing. A foot rail unit is pivotally connected to the projecting end of the slat, the pivotal connection being collinear to the pivot axis. By turning the axle relative to the head rail unit about the pivot axis when the slat is extended, the slat can be turned between a closed position wherein the slat is parallel to the unit axis and an open position wherein the slat is perpendicular to the unit axis.