Motorized Window Covering Power Over Low-Voltage Network Cable

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional motorized window coverings that receive DC power over a cable require specialized cabling, increasing installation costs and limiting the separation distance between the window covering and the power source.

Innovation Solution

A system utilizing a low voltage network cable with both power and data lines, a power panel, and DC-DC converters to provide a common voltage to motorized window coverings, allowing for longer cable lengths and unified control over multiple window coverings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If DC power is supplied over a cable to motorized window coverings, then the window coverings can be controlled automatically or with a remote control, but specialized cabling is required which increases installation cost and limits the separation distance between the window covering and the power source

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomatic control capabilityVSAvoidseparation distance between window covering and power source

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by using a standard low voltage network cable that serves multiple functions: it carries both power (through power lines) and data communication (through data lines). This multi-functional cable replaces the need for specialized power-carrying cables, allowing motorized window coverings to be powered and controlled over the same infrastructure used for network communications, thereby extending the separation distance without requiring specialized cabling

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies parameter changes by utilizing the existing low voltage network cable infrastructure with modified electrical parameters. By designing the system to operate with standard low voltage network cables (which have specific electrical characteristics), the patent enables power transmission over longer distances than traditional motorized window covering systems, changing the operational parameters to match the cable's capabilities

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If DC power is supplied over a cable to motorized window coverings, then the window coverings can be controlled automatically or with a remote control, but specialized cabling is required which increases installation cost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomatic control capabilityVSAvoidinstallation cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by using a standard low voltage network cable that serves multiple functions: it carries both power (through power lines) and data communication (through data lines). This multi-functional cable replaces the need for specialized power-carrying cables, allowing motorized window coverings to be powered and controlled over the same infrastructure used for network communications, thereby extending the separation distance without requiring specialized cabling

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies this principle by replacing expensive specialized power cabling with inexpensive standard low voltage network cables. The standard cables are widely available, cheaper to install, and can be reused from existing network infrastructure, reducing the overall installation cost while maintaining the required functionality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Ease of operation

If DC power is supplied over a cable to motorized window coverings, then the window coverings can be controlled automatically or with a remote control, but the cable length is limited which reduces the separation distance between motorized window coverings and the source of DC power

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomatic control capabilityVSAvoidseparation distance flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by using a standard low voltage network cable that serves multiple functions: it carries both power (through power lines) and data communication (through data lines). This multi-functional cable replaces the need for specialized power-carrying cables, allowing motorized window coverings to be powered and controlled over the same infrastructure used for network communications, thereby extending the separation distance without requiring specialized cabling

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies segmentation by separating the power transmission function from the data communication function within the same cable infrastructure. The cable includes dedicated power lines for electrical power transmission and dedicated data lines for communication, allowing each function to be optimized independently while sharing the same physical medium, thus enabling extended separation distances

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables cost-effective installation and extended range of motorized window covering systems with consistent control and operation, supporting a network of window coverings up to 900 feet without specialized cabling.

Implementation Method 1

The DC-DC converter transforms electrical energy from one voltage level to another, converting the first DC voltage to a second DC voltage to power the motor

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical energy transformation:

Data Source

PatentUS12584353B2Motorized window covering system and method

Publication Date: 2026.03.24 DRAPER CORP

AI summary

A motorized window covering control system is disclosed. Exemplary motorized window covering assemblies may be powered by a power panel over low voltage network cable.