Modular Window Shade Pocket Bracket for Cable Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Window shade systems face challenges in determining pocket locations for mounting brackets and wiring, which must comply with varying fire codes and accommodate different shade sizes, while being lightweight and inexpensive.
Innovation Solution
A modular window shade pocket system with a bracket retaining cabling and electrical components, featuring removable and replaceable components, and a design that allows for non-plenum cabling usage by distinguishing between room and plenum spaces, incorporating features like bent metal or spring clips and modular construction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If plenum cable with flame-resistant material is used in the pocket, then fire safety and smoke toxicity are improved, but cable cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the installation space into two distinct zones: the plenum space (ceiling area) requiring flame-resistant plenum cable, and the room space (pocket area) where standard non-plenum cable is sufficient. This segmentation allows using cheaper non-plenum cable in the pocket while maintaining fire safety compliance in the plenum area.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable routing is extracted and separated into two paths: one path through the plenum space requiring flame-resistant material, and another path through the room pocket where standard cable suffices. The bracket system enables this extraction by providing a mounting structure that guides cables through the room space rather than entirely through the plenum.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the pocket is designed to accommodate different shade sizes and features, then adaptability is improved, but pocket weight and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pocket design incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements such as movable brackets and extensible wiring channels that can be dynamically adjusted to accommodate different shade sizes and configurations, replacing fixed rigid structures with adaptable components.
Solution Approach 2:
The pocket is divided into modular sections including separate bracket assemblies, wiring channels, and mounting components that can be independently configured and replaced based on specific shade requirements, allowing customization without redesigning the entire pocket structure.
3Reliability
If multiple brackets are used to retain cabling and electrical components, then cabling retention and organization are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket design integrates multiple functions into single components: brackets serve both as structural support elements and as cabling retention mechanisms, while also providing mounting points for electrical components. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of separate parts needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket system combines cabling retention features with structural support and electrical component mounting capabilities into integrated assemblies, merging multiple functions that would traditionally require separate components into unified bracket structures.
Data Source
AI summary
A window shade pocket system comprises a pocket having an inside surface, a bracket removably affixed to the inside surface of the pocket and a roller shade within the pocket. The bracket may retain cabling and/or electrical components within the bracket. The bracket may include a plurality of brackets along the inside surface of the pocket, wherein the cabling is retained within the plurality of brackets. The brackets may form a channel between the bracket and the inside surface of the pocket. The roller shade may be able to be removed after the bracket is removed. The pocket may also be comprised of a first component having a first engagement device and a second component having a second engagement device, wherein the first engagement device engages the second engagement device to form the pocket.