Roller Blind Control Using Position Feedback for Synchronized Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing architectural opening covering assemblies, such as roller blinds, lack a centralized control system to synchronize the movement of multiple coverings across different architectural openings, leading to inconsistent and uncoordinated operation.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize a controller to determine the position and speed of architectural opening coverings based on their angular position and a predetermined time, allowing for synchronized movement of multiple coverings across different architectural openings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a motorized roller tube is used to control covering movement, then automation is improved, but synchronization between multiple coverings deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple independent motorized roller tubes into a synchronized system by integrating optical sensors and a master controller. The controller receives position information from optical assemblies on each roller tube and coordinates their movement to arrive at common positions simultaneously, merging previously independent operations into a unified controlled system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback control by using optical assemblies to continuously monitor the position of each roller tube and transmitting this information to the master controller. The controller adjusts motor operation based on real-time position data to ensure all coverings reach their target positions simultaneously, maintaining synchronization through continuous feedback loops.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different tube sizes and covering thicknesses are used, then adaptability is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by placing optical assemblies at specific locations on each roller tube and using individual position sensors for each covering. This allows the system to accommodate variations in tube size and covering thickness by measuring and controlling each unit's position independently, rather than relying on a single standardized measurement approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The system handles different tube sizes and covering thicknesses by dynamically adjusting control parameters. The master controller receives position information from optical assemblies and calculates the number of revolutions needed for each roller tube to reach common positions, adapting control parameters based on the specific dimensions of each tube-covering combination.
3Device complexity
If manual control methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by enabling automatic control of multiple roller tubes through the master controller and optical assemblies. The controller autonomously receives position information from sensors and commands motors to move coverings to common positions simultaneously, eliminating the need for manual coordination while improving operational efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods and apparatus to control an architectural opening covering assembly are disclosed herein. An example method disclosed herein includes determining a position of a covering of an architectural opening covering assembly. The example method further includes determining a speed at which the covering is to move via a motor based on the position and a period of time. The example method also includes operating a motor to move the covering at the speed.