Window Covering Operating Device With Pull-Cord Loop Blocking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing window covering operating devices, particularly those without cords, can still pose a strangulation hazard due to the potential formation of loops in pull cords, which are not adequately addressed by current child-safety regulations.

Innovation Solution

An operating device for window coverings, such as Roman blinds and horizontal blinds, incorporates blocking elements that restrict the movement of pull cords relative to ladder cords or the window covering, preventing loop formation by engaging or attaching to the pull cord, thereby limiting its freedom of movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a pull cord is used to operate the window covering, then the window covering can be easily lowered and raised, but the pull cord may form loops that create strangulation hazards for children

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of operationVSAvoidstrangulation hazard

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The pull cord is divided into multiple sections by introducing blocking elements at regular intervals. These blocking elements segment the continuous cord into controlled portions, preventing the formation of large loops while maintaining the cord's functionality for operating the window covering.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Blocking elements are introduced as intermediary components between the pull cord and the window covering. These intermediaries restrict the movement of the pull cord relative to the window covering, preventing loop formation without interfering with the operational function of the cord.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If blocking elements are introduced to restrict pull cord movement, then loop formation is prevented, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestrangulation hazardVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of making the entire pull cord complex, blocking elements are applied locally at specific positions along the cord. Each blocking element is a simple component that performs its function locally, restricting loop formation at its position without requiring complexity throughout the entire cord structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The blocking elements are designed as simple, inexpensive components that can be easily manufactured and installed. These simple elements provide effective loop prevention without the need for complex mechanisms, prioritizing cost-effectiveness and ease of implementation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Data Source

PatentUS20250305356A1Operating device for a window covering

Publication Date: 2025.10.02 VAKO

AI summary

The invention relates to an operating device for a window covering such as a Roman blind, pleated blind and/or a horizontal blind, comprising at least one carrying structure, at least one axially rotatable cord spool configured for winding up and unwinding at least one pull cord thereby lowering and/or raising a window covering, at least one drive shaft connected to the at least one cord spool, at least one pull cord connected to the drive shaft, at least one ladder cord configured for supporting at least part of the window covering. The invention is characterized in that movement of the pull cord relative to the ladder cord is restricted.