Tug activated motorized window covering having an external battery tube
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing window covering systems require multiple curtain guide tracks for dual curtains, limiting the ability to independently move each curtain and increasing complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A window covering assembly with a rotatable drive element featuring a helical guide structure and corresponding tooth mechanism allows for independent axial movement of multiple curtains using a single drive element, enabling simultaneous or separate operation of blackout and sheer curtains.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple curtain guide tracks are used for dual curtains, then each curtain can be independently moved, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple curtain operations into a single guide track system. The first and second curtains are both guided along the same first guide track, eliminating the need for separate tracks. This merging reduces system complexity while maintaining independent movement capability through separate carriage mechanisms that can be controlled independently along the shared track.
Solution Approach 2:
The first guide track is designed to serve multiple functions by accommodating both the first carriage (for the first curtain) and the second carriage (for the second curtain). This universal track structure allows a single component to handle multiple curtain operations, reducing the overall number of components needed while preserving independent control of each curtain.
2Ease of operation
If multiple curtain guide tracks are used for dual curtains, then each curtain can be independently moved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the guidance function into a single first guide track that serves both curtains, the patent reduces material costs, assembly costs, and installation complexity. The shared track structure eliminates redundant components, directly lowering manufacturing and system costs while maintaining the capability for independent curtain operation through separate carriage control mechanisms.
3Device complexity
If a single rotatable drive element is used for dual curtains, then the system is simplified, but the ability to independently move each curtain is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control mechanism by providing separate carriages (first carriage and second carriage) that can be independently positioned and controlled along the guide track. While the drive element may be shared, each carriage has its own drive attachment element and control inputs, allowing independent operation of each curtain. This segmentation of control functions maintains simplicity in the drive system while preserving independent curtain manipulation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic control where the rotatable drive element can selectively engage with different drive attachment elements on the carriages. This dynamic engagement allows a single drive element to control multiple curtains independently by sequentially or simultaneously driving different carriages based on control signals, maintaining system simplicity while enabling flexible independent operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A motorized window covering system is presented having a rotatable drive element having a guide structure and a plurality of idler attachment elements and at least one drive element positioned over the rotatable drive element. A motor is connected to the rotatable drive element and controls operation of the window covering. An external battery tube assembly is connected by a conduit to the rotatable drive element and is configured to provide power to the motor. The external battery tube assembly includes a switch and controls operation of the motorized window covering. When pulled or lifted the external battery tube assembly initiates movement, stops movement or reverses movement of the motor. In this way, the system provides a unique way of controlling operation of a motorized window covering.