Roller Blind Connector Profile for Secure Fabric Attachment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing connectors for coupling fabric to a roller in roller blinds often fail to provide a secure connection, especially when forces are applied in unintended directions, leading to potential detachment of the fabric from the roller.

Innovation Solution

A connector with a specific profile comprising first, second, third, and fourth walls, designed to fit into a roller channel, providing a secure attachment by forming receiving sections for the roller edges, thus preventing unwanted removal of the connector from the roller.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If simple means are used to secure fabric to the roller, then ease of manufacture and installation is improved, but connection reliability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of manufactureVSAvoidconnection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is divided into distinct functional segments: a first receiving section for securing the fabric, a second receiving section for engaging the roller channel edges, and a connection section joining them. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity in manufacturing

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connector acts as an intermediary component between the fabric and the roller channel. It provides a reliable mechanical connection without requiring complex attachment mechanisms, simple tools, or specialized installation procedures, thereby resolving the contradiction between connection reliability and ease of manufacture

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If simple means are used to secure fabric to the roller, then ease of installation is improved, but connection reliability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of installationVSAvoidconnection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is designed to be self-installing by utilizing the existing structure of the roller channel. The first receiving section and second receiving section work together to automatically secure the connector in place through the roller channel edges, eliminating the need for additional tools or complex installation procedures while ensuring reliable connection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The connector serves as an intermediary that simplifies the installation process while ensuring reliable fabric-to-roller attachment. Its design allows it to be installed without special tools by simply engaging with the roller channel structure, thereby improving ease of installation without compromising connection reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If secure connection means are provided, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is divided into distinct functional segments: a first receiving section for securing the fabric, a second receiving section for engaging the roller channel edges, and a connection section joining them. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity in the device structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connector performs multiple functions within a single integrated structure: it secures the fabric, engages with the roller channel edges, and provides a reliable mechanical connection. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, thereby improving connection reliability without significantly increasing device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP4165275B1Connector and roller blind
Publication Date: 2025.03.05 HUNTER DOUGLAS IND BV
  • EP4165275B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4165275B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4A
  • EP4165275B1 patent drawingFigure 4B~4C

AI summary

The present invention provides a connector (10) for coupling fabric (30) to a roller (20) with a roller channel (21) with an entrance extending axially along the roller (20). The connector (10) may be positioned in the roller channel (21). The cross-sectional shape of the connector (10) allows it to interact with the roller (20). Once in place in the roller channel (21), the coupling of the connector (10) to the roller (20) may be maintained due to the shape of the connector (10). The present invention may also provide a roller blind comprising the connector (10) and the roller (20).