Retractable Support Connector for Multi-Band Shade Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Roller shade systems face issues with damage due to excessive force, chain breakage, and uncontrolled rotation, as well as challenges in multi-banded systems where removing one shade can cause others to unroll, and alignment difficulties during installation.
Innovation Solution
The system incorporates a slip plate with protrusions for controlled rotation, tube adapters for torque absorption, a slide lock for shade band restriction, and an adjustment arm for leveling, along with a center-drive mechanism and adjustable hembar for improved operation and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a multi-banded shade system uses a fixed support connector between shade bands, then the structure provides stable support, but removing one shade band causes other bands to unroll uncontrollably
Solution Approach 1:
The support connector transitions from a fixed rigid structure to a telescopic dynamic structure that can extend and retract. The connector includes an inner tube that slides within an outer tube, allowing it to change length. When a shade band is removed, the connector retracts to maintain support for remaining bands and prevent uncontrolled unrolling, while still allowing individual band removal and reinstallation.
2Manufacturing precision
If the support connector is made rigid and fixed, then alignment during installation is maintained, but adjustment for level installation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The telescopic support connector allows dynamic adjustment of length and position during installation. The inner tube can slide within the outer tube to accommodate different mounting heights and alignment requirements. This dynamic structure maintains precise alignment while enabling easy adjustment for level installation across various ceiling conditions.
3Ease of operation
If the shade system uses excessive force to overcome friction in the drive mechanism, then the shade can be raised and lowered, but damage occurs to mechanical components
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates a slip plate mechanism that acts as a protective element before damage occurs. The slip plate is designed to slip or disengage when excessive force is applied, preventing transmission of damaging forces to the clutch, sprocket, and other mechanical components. This beforehand cushioning protects the drive mechanism from damage while maintaining normal operability under appropriate force levels.
Data Source
AI summary
An improved roller shade system provides increased support, additional adjustments and/or increased safety. The slip plate allows the brake to slip forward and minimize damage to the clutch spring when a user pulls too hard on the hembar. The center drive mechanism extends through a bracket to allow the drive shaft to distribute power in both directions and drive two shade tube simultaneously. The tube adapter absorbs force from the spinning shade tube to minimize damage to the other components and the bead chain. The sprocket has a back wall supporting the sprocket, allowing the sprocket 130 to rest on the back flange of the sun gear to minimize pressure on the gears. An adjustment arm is adjusted to help level the shade band. The shade bands may be removed without disturbing the other shade bands in the system. A height of a hembar may be adjusted by rotating a rod within the hembar.