Reversible Shade Control With Single Retractable Cord
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional window covering control systems often require users to choose between multiple operating elements for raising and lowering, leading to confusion, especially when elements are tangled, and pose a strangulation hazard due to their length, while also lacking compatibility with all window systems and operational smoothness.
Innovation Solution
A control system utilizing a single retractable operating element, such as a cord or cable, that automatically retracts after each pull, allowing users to raise or lower window coverings by imparting a repetitive motion, with a mechanism that includes a reversible transmission to rotate a head roller in either direction based on the pull direction, ensuring smooth operation and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a looped operating element is used to provide a convenient operating method, then ease of operation is improved, but the length of the operating element increases creating a strangulation hazard
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the hazardous loop portion from the operating system by using a straight cord that is automatically retracted into the head rail after each use. The cord is paid out during operation but retrieved afterward, eliminating the permanent loop that creates strangulation hazards while maintaining operational convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system performs self-service by automatically retracting the operating cord into the head rail after each pulling operation. This automatic retrieval mechanism eliminates the need for manual winding and ensures the cord is consistently stored in a safe position without user intervention.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple operating elements are used to provide choices for raising and lowering, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases and user confusion occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The single operating cord serves multiple functions: it controls both raising and lowering of the window covering, and through the reversible transmission mechanism, it can operate the head roller in both clockwise and counter-clockwise directions. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate cords for different operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by using a single cord for bidirectional control instead of multiple cords for unidirectional control. The reversible transmission mechanism allows the same cord to produce opposite rotational directions, effectively inverting the traditional one-cord-one-direction paradigm.
3Length of stationary object
If a longer operating element is used to raise or lower the shade, then the drop of the shade is increased, but the strangulation hazard increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the hazardous portion (the loop) from the operating system while retaining the necessary cord length for full shade operation. The cord is paid out to the required length during operation but is retrieved afterward, so the hazardous loop exists only temporarily during use, not as a permanent feature.
Solution Approach 2:
The operating cord undergoes periodic extension and retraction cycles. During each lowering operation, the cord is extended to the necessary length; after operation, it is automatically retracted. This periodic action ensures the cord provides sufficient length for operation while minimizing hazard exposure time.
4Device complexity
If a single operating element is used to both raise and lower the blind, then device complexity is reduced, but operational smoothness and dependability need improvement
Solution Approach 1:
The reversible transmission mechanism acts as an intermediary between the single operating cord and the head roller. It translates the unidirectional pulling force of the cord into bidirectional rotational motion of the head roller, ensuring smooth and reliable operation in both raising and lowering directions through controlled mechanical engagement.
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 solution provides improved operational smoothness and dependability, reduces the risk of strangulation hazards, and is compatible with various window covering systems by allowing users to easily move window coverings between extended and retracted positions using a single operating element.
Implementation Method 1
a spring exerting a retracting force on the operating element
Implementation Method 2
a pulley redirecting the operating element
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides for retractable coverings for architectural openings utilizing a control system having a single operating element allowing a user to move a retractable covering between extended and retracted positions by imparting a repetitive motion to the operating element. The control system may include an input assembly, a transmission, and an output assembly cooperatively engaging to convert linear movement of the operating element into rotational movement of a head roller in the required direction to provide movement of the covering in the desired direction and distance. The input assembly may convert linear movement of the operating element into rotational movement imparted to the transmission. The input assembly may also engage the transmission to effect the direction of rotational output from the transmission. The transmission imparts rotational movement to the output assembly, which interfaces with the head roller to rotate the head roller and to provide a braking feature.