Abstract: The present invention relates to sunshades and methods of constructing sunshades, particularly, sunshade canopies installed at a fixed location in the temperate zones. In a first aspect of the invention, a sunshade element is configured such that the sunshade element is viewed from a reference shade point as a thin profile between adjacent apertures over predetermined days in winter, thereby maximising the admission of sunshine to the shade area; and configured such that the sunshade element presents the maximum or near maximum breadth of its during predetermined days in summer; resulting in the admission of sunshine in winter and the blocking of sunshine in summer. During the spring period winter, sunshine is gradually replaced by summer shade, and during the autumn period, summer shade is replaced by winter sunshine, such that the sunshade elements provide effective blocking and admission of sunshine to the shade area over the annual solar cycle.

Abstract: A rail for an architectural covering is provided. The rail may be associated with a shade material of a covering. An adjustment device may be positioned at least partially within the rail. A plurality of lift cords may be associated with the adjustment device. The adjustment device may adjust an effective length of each of the lift cords to adjust a position of the rail within an architectural opening.

Abstract: A vehicle includes at least one autonomous driving sensor and an autonomous mode controller configured to receive signals generated by the autonomous driving sensor. The autonomous mode controller controls at least one vehicle subsystem based at least in part on the signals received. Furthermore, the autonomous mode controller is configured to shade at least one vehicle window when the vehicle is operating in an autonomous mode.

Abstract: A retractable covering such as a door or window blind or shade has a top rail, a bottom rail, a covering material extending between the top rail and the bottom rail, at least two lift cords extending downwardly from the head rail to the bottom rail for supporting the bottom rail, a covering operating system for enabling retraction and deployment of the covering, and an adjuster connected to at least two of the lift cords. The adjuster is preferably mounted in the bottom rail. The retractable covering also comprises an individual cord tensioner for allowing at least one of the lift cords to be individually tensioned. The individual cord tensioner operates independently of the adjuster. A method of adjusting the orientation and drop height of the bottom rail of the retractable covering is also provided.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method of manufacturing two kinds of rectangular unit pieces having different optical properties from a base material sheet through cutting using a cutting frame including a cutter, the method including preparing a base material sheet having a large length to width ratio, the base material sheet exhibiting optical directivity in a longitudinal direction or in a lateral direction, preparing a cutting frame including at least on first cutter for cutting a first unit piece exhibiting optical directivity parallel to that of the base material sheet and at least one second cutter for cutting a second unit piece exhibiting optical directivity perpendicular to that of the base material sheet, the first cutter and the second cutter being arranged adjacent to each other in the lateral direction of the base material sheet, and sequentially cutting the base material sheet using the cutting frame in the longitudinal direction of the base material sheet to simultaneously manufacture the first unit pie

Abstract: A skew adjustment method and apparatus for adjusting the skewed condition of a movable rail of a window covering in which the movable rail is supported by lift cords wrapped around spools. A drive train disconnecting mechanism is used to disconnect a first spool from a second spool, the first spool is rotated relative to the second spool, thereby changing the length of the first lift cord relative to the second lift cord until the movable rail is in the desired position; and then the first and second spools are reconnected so the first and second spools rotate together. An end cap may be used to enable multiple disassemblies and reassemblies of the end cap to access the skew adjustment mechanism. In one embodiment, there are two movable rails, and the lift cords for both movable rails extend through the same rout holes in the covering. Disconnecting the first spool from the second spool may activate a mechanism that prevents the second spool from rotating.

Abstract: A shutter-blind system for windows is provided. The system includes a plurality of rotatable parallel louvers. Each louver is rotatable about an axis offset from its center of gravity. The system further includes a resisting member coupled to a louver located at a lower end of the plurality of louvers, the center of gravity of the louvers with the offset axis pulling against the resisting member to maintain tension in the collapsible linkages. All of the louvers of the plurality of louvers are rotated in a substantially matched rotation in response to rotation of the lower louver. All of the louvers are held in position in response to the force of gravity on the offset louvers acting against the resisting member.

Abstract: A supported architectural structure is presented. A plurality of primary supports configured to couple with one or more architectural structures. A plurality of flexible fins, where at least one of the plurality of flexible fins includes an inner edge and an outer edge, where the inner edge includes a plurality of attachment points. A plurality of secondary supports configured to couple with the plurality of primary supports, where at least one of the secondary supports includes a plurality of fin slots configured to couple with the plurality of attachment points.

Abstract: A system and method for a supported architectural design. A plurality of primary supports configured to couple with one or more architectural structures. A plurality of flexible fins, where at least one of the plurality of flexible fins includes an inner edge and an outer edge, where the inner edge includes a plurality of attachment points. A plurality of secondary supports configured to couple with the plurality of primary supports, where at least one of the secondary supports includes a plurality of fin slots configured to couple with the plurality of attachment points.

Abstract: An extensible car window shading apparatus mountable inside the car and comprising a first plurality of slats having at each longitudinal end a slat hole in which a slat spring attached to a slat stick is inserted, such that the slat stick extends outwardly from the slat hole, a second plurality of panels, the second plurality being exactly twice the first plurality, such that there is a panel at each longitudinal end of each slat, wherein each panel has a panel hole in which a panel spring is inserted, the panel hole being configured to receive the slat stick, and wherein the panels on each side of the apparatus are joined by hinges, such as to allow folding or deploying of the extensible car window shading apparatus by a user, and a support arm that keeps the extensible car window shading apparatus in folded position.

Abstract: A motorized venetian blind system for covering a window of a space comprising a blind drive unit having two motors to provide for independent control of a position of a bottom rail and a tilt angle of a plurality of slats of the blind system. The blind drive unit is operable to adjust the position of the bottom rail to a preset position, and to adjust the tilt angle of the slats to a preset angle in response to receiving a single digital message (e.g., a preset command). The blind drive unit is operable to automatically adjust the position of the bottom rail and the tilt angle of the slats to limit a direct sunlight penetration distance in the space to a maximum direct sunlight penetration distance, and to maximum a reflected sunlight penetration distance on a ceiling of the space, while minimizing occupant distractions.

Abstract: A window-blind includes at least two ladder ropes extended from a top rail to a bottom rail in vertical direction, and each ladder rope containing parallel first and second banded parts, and ladder strings in horizontal direction placed between the first banded part and the second banded part and distributed equidistantly, and each end of the ladder strings is connected with the first banded part and the second banded part respectively; multiple slats located between the first banded part and the second banded part, and placed successively on the ladder strings from top to bottom; the first banded part having the first side facing the slats and the second side back to the slats, and the first side of the first banded part forming the channel for the pulling cord to pass through; and the pulling cord and the part of the pulling cord pass through the channel.

Abstract: Wire mesh with warp and weft wires on a mesh surface with tube means spaced apart from each other being woven in on the mesh surface on which slat elements are located in order to serve for shading of the incidence of light. The slat elements can be provided with photovoltaic cells.

Abstract: A folding window covering is constructed in a manner that reflects sunlight and blocks air currents through the window opening. The covering is attached to the window frame using magnetic coupling. The folding action is supported by magnetic coupling of the individual panels that constitute the window covering, allowing the system to be opened partially. The panels may contain an insulating layer to reduce heat transfer through conduction.

Abstract: A vane assembly of a vertical window covering includes a vane carrier and a vane hung thereon. The vane carrier has front wall and a rear wall with top ends connected to form a clip slot therebetween, and a hook on the rear wall in the clip slot. The hook has a slot and a slot bottom. The vane has a bore to engage the hook of the vane carrier. The slot bottom of the hook has a curved surface complementary to at least a portion of an edge of the bore to avoid damage of the vane.

Abstract: A curtain panel is provided for use in retrofitting vertical blinds. The curtain panel is configured to hang in place of vertical blind slats as a retrofit application that provides a greatly improved appearance as compared to traditional vertical blinds. In general the curtain panel employs a system of buttonholes along a top edge of the panel to affix it in place on the same hook system where the vertical slat deteriorating blinds were formerly held in place. In this manner a retrofit is offered as a fashionable option to ugly blinds. The user also has the ability to coordinate a patio door (sliding glass door, etc.) panel to his/her interior decor.

Abstract: A reflector system for a window blind has a plurality of adjustable slats. The window blind is mounted on the inside of a window in a building. The reflector system comprises a plurality of reflective sheets. A mechanism is for affixing each reflective sheet onto one surface of a slat. When the slats are adjusted to a proper 30-60 degrees angle with the reflective sheets facing the window, the reflective sheets will reflect solar rays having radiant heat back out through the window to help cool the building in a 20 degrees differential temperature.

Abstract: Indicated herein is a lounge module for crewmembers of an aircraft, which exhibits a screen device, such as a privacy roller blind. This privacy roller blind can be used to visually demarcate a first aisle area from a second aisle area, thereby creating a private area for the aircraft crew.

Abstract: The hardware for mounting the blinds is located in the head rail such that it does not interfere with the cutting operation but remains with the blind after the blind is cut-to-size. The hardware overlaps with a blind component and the hardware may include a mounting bracket that includes a notch for receiving the blind component. The ends of the blinds are aligned in a package by the manufacturer during the packaging process. The blinds are secured in the package such that the blind elements are properly aligned. The aligned blinds and the package are inserted into a cutting machine as a unit and the cutting machine cuts the blinds and the package simultaneously.

Abstract: The invention relates to an at least three-layer, biaxially oriented polyester film with two white outer layers and carbon-black-filled base layer, where the thickness of the outer layers is from 4 to 15 ?m, the thickness of the base layer is ?the total of the thicknesses of the outer layers, the white outer layers comprise at least 15% by weight of TiO2, the base layer comprises at least 4% by weight of TiO2, the carbon-black-containing base layer comprises from 1 to 8% by weight of carbon black, and the SV value of the film is at least 600, where all % by weight data are based on the weight of the respective layer, and also to a process for the production of this type of film and to the use of the film in particular in blinds, including roller blinds, Venetian blinds, or projection screens, or in displays.

Abstract: The invention relates to an at least three-layer, biaxially oriented polyester film with a carbon-black-filled outer layer and with two TiO2-containing layers, where a TiO2-containing layer is also an outer layer and where the thickness of the outer layers is from 4 to 15 ?m, the thickness of the base layer is ?the total of the thicknesses of the outer layers, the white outer layer comprises at least 15% by weight of TiO2, the base layer comprises at least 4% by weight of TiO2, the carbon-black-containing outer layer comprises from 3 to 15% by weight of carbon black, and the SV value of the film is at least 600, where all % by weight data are based on the weight of the respective layer, and also to a process for the production of this type of film and to the use of the film in particular in blinds, including roller blinds, Venetian blinds, or projection screens, or in displays.

Abstract: A window covering has a transparent front face and optional transparent back face, either or both of which are formed from a series of spaced apart parallel threads, and a series of vanes attached to the faces. The parallel threads which form the front face and optional back face are spaced apart an amount which allows light to readily pass while providing a soft fabric like appearance. The vanes have a light filtering or light impeding property and may be opaque. The front and back longitudinal edges of each slat are respectively attached to the front face and any back face that is present. The resulting structure, when combined with a hardware system, is a light control blind. Movement of the vanes from a position perpendicular to the front face and any back face to a position generally parallel to the front controls the amount of light which is admitted through the window covering. An additional layer of fabric may be provided opposite the front face or the back face.

Abstract: A method of controlling an electromechanical actuator (ACT) comprising a motor (MOT) for maneuvering a mobile appliance (LD) of a building in a first direction (DIR1) and in a second direction (DIR2) by way of a remote-control unit (RCU) and a unit (MCU) for driving the motor that are placed respectively one upstream of the other on an electrical power line energizing the motor with an alternating voltage, a command to maneuver in the first direction comprising a half-wave rectified signal of positive polarity and a command to maneuver in the second direction comprising a half-wave rectified signal of negative polarity, wherein the maneuver commands furthermore comprise an alternating voltage signal following the half-wave rectified signal.

Abstract: A window covering for convenient cutting includes an upper rail, a lower rail, a shade assembly, a lift cord means, an edging block and a removable coupling set installed on an outer side of the upper rail. The lift cord means has two lift cords laid outside the upper rail and passed through an engaging means located in the coupling set. The coupling set and the upper rail are latched through a latch portion and a channel. The width of the window covering can be cut at a desired length. Then the coupling set and the edging block can be installed on one side of the upper rail so that the widths of the upper rail and lower rail can fit the width of a targeted window or door. Cutting and installation of the window covering are easier.

Abstract: A decorative valance structure for a vertical blind assembly is disclosed. The longitudinally extending portion and the return portions of the valance structure are cut to the desired length from a PVC extrusion. Corner members are utilized to join the opposite ends of the longitudinally extending portions to the return portions. A flexible extrusion is attached to the top edge and the bottom edge of the valance structure and a section of vertical blind material is received between the flexible extrusions so as to cover the valance structure. The vertical blind material utilized to cover the valance structure “matches” the material for the vertical blind assembly providing a decorative appearance to the valance structure.

Abstract: A covering for an architectural opening includes a roller assembly having a rotatable roller secured to one edge of a sheet of flexible material with the opposite edge secured thereabove to a fixed location. The roller assembly is cradled in a cord ladder or cord ladder type element so one vertical run of the cord ladder is anchored and the other vertical run is raised or lowered to raise and lower the cradle thereby causing the flexible material to be wrapped around or unwrapped from the roller. The roller assemblies can be used individually or in combination with like roller assemblies and can further be used in combination with other covering products such as sheets of translucent or transparent materials like sheer fabric.

Abstract: A window blind for privacy includes slats made of transparent material having an embossed pattern and a printed pattern thereon sufficient to decrease the transparency of the slat and obscure visibility through the slats while maintaining a high degree of translucency. The lift cord is positioned outside of the slats, and the slats are constructed to close without exposing significant voids there through that are not overlapped by an adjacent slat. A valance is formed from slats and overlaps spaces that may occur above and below the head rail.

Abstract: A hive-shaped blind has multiple slats each composed of an inner blind sheet and an outer blind sheet individually with a binding section. Therefore, the inner blind sheet and the outer blind sheet are combined together at the binding sections to compose the slat. Lastly, multiple slats are stringed in parallel to achieve the hive-shaped blind.

Abstract: Systems, methods, apparatus, computer readable mediums and propagated signals are provided for controlling the position, orientation, movement, configuration and/or operation of one or more window coverings, doors, vanes, filters or other apparatus. In one embodiment, a system is provided for controlling at least one of the position and orientation of a blind. The system includes a controller for operating a blind, at least one detector operably connected to the controller for simultaneously detecting position and orientation of at least one element of the blind, and at least one output device operably connected to the controller for controlling at least one of the orientation and position of the blind. The embodiments may also include or utilize at least one of a receiver program module, a device controller module, a timer program module and a system controller module which are utilized by a controller to control the operation of the blind.

Abstract: A Roman shade includes a head beam; a top rail located below the head beam; a shade body having an upper portion attached to the top rail; and a lift control unit including a plurality of lift locks mounted on the head beam for controlling the top rail and the shade body to stop at any desired lifted position, a plurality of first lift cords passed through one of the lift locks to fasten to a lower portion of the shade body, and a plurality of second lift cords passed through the other lift lock to fasten to the top rail. When the first lift cords are pulled to different extents, the shade body is lifted or lowered; and when the second lift cords are pulled to different extents, the top rail is caused to move toward or away from the head beam.

Abstract: An adjustable mounting system for use with a variety of window treatments comprises a head rail, an adjustable support rod, and one or more clips for coupling the support rod to the head rail. The mounting system is preferably non-invasive and does not damage window casings. The mounting system may be installed very quickly and easily, without the need for any tools. The head rail is adapted for use with a wide variety of window treatment assemblies.

Abstract: An adjustable mounting system for use with a variety of window treatments comprises a head rail, an adjustable support rod, and one or more clips for coupling the support rod to the head rail. The mounting system is preferably non-invasive and does not damage window casings. The mounting system may be installed very quickly and easily, without the need for any tools. The head rail is adapted for use with a wide variety of window treatment assemblies.

Abstract: A mounting and drive system for a window covering is provided. The mounting and drive system has an elongated body that has a first end and a second end and is configured to releasably retain a window covering that has window covering material connected to a rotating element such that rotation of the element raises or lowers the window covering material. A drive mechanism is permanently attached to one end of the elongated body. The drive mechanism is configured to be releasably coupled to the rotating element of the window covering such that the drive mechanism can turn the element to raised or lower the shade.

Abstract: A semi-mirrored translucent surface is angled so that when looking towards it from one side (from the outside) one sees the reflection of an illuminated surface that is brighter than what is beyond (the inside) and when looking towards it from the other side (from the inside) one's view through is not blocked by the reflection of a dark surface. The effect is that looking in from the outside, one sees what appear to be illuminated closed blinds and looking out from the inside one sees through what appear to be open slats.

Abstract: A cordless window covering system with a secondary mechanism to adjust the position of the window covering, to allow manual adjustment of the window covering when the bottom bar is out of reach by hand. In one embodiment, the secondary adjustment system includes a hooked hand tool that engages with a loop in the bottom bar. In another embodiment, the secondary adjustment system includes an exposed beaded corded coupled to the internal mechanisms of the system, so that pulling of beaded cord causes internal mechanisms to move and adjust the position of the window covering.

Abstract: A layered blinds device having a series of screens of evenly spaced rods held in parallel relation to one another that allow users to manipulate light penetration and view transparency as independent variables and a method for doing the same. A spacing mechanism adjusts the spacing between the screens which controls the light penetration while an alignment mechanism adjusts the alignment of the rods which controls the view transparency. The blinds can be adjusted manually or by a tracking system.

Abstract: A window covering has a plurality of shade elements, each having a first longitudinal edge and a second longitudinal edge. The shade elements are positioned sequentially below a headrail, and each shade element is made of a window covering material that can be rolled about the first longitudinal edge. A first rail extends from the headrail past the first longitudinal edge of each shade element and is connected to lowermost shade element or the bottom rail. A second rail extends from the headrail and is attached to lowermost shade element or the bottom rail and to the second longitudinal edge of each shade element. Rungs extend between the first rail and the second rail such that there is one rung below and corresponding to each shade element. The first longitudinal edge of each shade element rests upon a corresponding rung when the window covering is in a closed position. A control mechanism is connected to the first rail and is capable of moving the first rail relative to the second rail.

Abstract: A window blind includes an elongated head rail, a pair of ladder-shaped cords which extends vertically down from the head rail, and a plurality of individual slats which are supported by the pair of cords. A pair of stopper-shaped mounts protrude out from opposite ends of the head rail. At least one of the mounts is fixedly connected to the head rail by a spring. In order to mount the window blind within a window frame, a compressive force is applied to the spring which draws the pair of mounts in towards one another to the extent necessary so that the window blind fits within the window frame. Once the window blind is properly positioned within the window frame, the compressive force is withdrawn which causes the pair of mounts to resiliently spread apart and contact the window frame with such pressure that the window blind remains securely installed therewithin.

Abstract: A shade without threading cords that does not have threading cords to link transverse slats includes a plurality of transverse slats and at least two longitudinal bands bonding to the transverse slats. Each of the transverse slats has at least two bonding zones which are a bondable surface. Each band has a first band surface coated with adhesive to facilitate bonding and anchoring of the transverse slats. The shade can be arranged and assembled quickly because no threading cords are needed. Fabrication of the shade is easier, and sideward movement of the transverse slats can be prevented.

Abstract: A shade having overlapping slats to provide a three dimensional arrangement and facilitate fast assembly and installation includes a plurality of slats braced and confined by at least two ladder bands to form overlap in a upper and down manner. Each of the slats has at least two anchor notches on one edge to be wedged by a cord of the ladder bands to form anchoring of the slats. The shade thus formed can be fabricated, assembled and installed easier, and provide three dimensional aesthetic appeal and more added value.

Abstract: An apparatus for manufacturing cellular laminate structural panels includes one or more supply stations of a flexible strip material including folding rollers for sequentially folding the strip material into cellular structures and feeding the cellular structures into a conveyor where the cellular structures are held in compression. The apparatus further includes a laminating station where the folded cellular structures are laminated to an upper and/or lower sheet material to which lines of a bonding medium have been applied prior to engagement with the cellular structures. The folded cellular structures are heated before engaging the sheet material so as to enhance the bonding of the sheet material to the cellular structures and subsequent to bonding, the laminate is passed through a cooling station to set the bonding medium.

Abstract: A bi-directional clutch for operating a window dressing such as a roller shade includes a protective guard for securing the window dressing to a stationary structure, a gear box for transmitting rotation to an output member in response to the operation of an elongated operating member such as a cord, and an antirotational member that prevents the undesirable operation of the output member. The output member is coupled to the window dressing. The gear box includes a gear pulley coupled to the elongated operating member, a planetary gear and a stationary gear. The gear box is arranged and constructed to transmit motion to the output member in response to the activation of the elongated operating member, at a predetermined mechanical advantage.

Abstract: A method of applying a decorative color to a thermoplastic strip suited for use to produce slats for blinds is characterized by the use of a heat sensitive printing paper of the type normally used to color the fabric material from which valances are generally made. By using that type of color transferring medium to color the thermoplastic slats it becomes possible, for instance, to manufacture blind slats having the same color as the fabric valance to be hung decoratively from the window for which the blind is to be installed. There is also disclosed a blind structure for attenuating the flapping noise produced when the slats enter in contact with each other.

Abstract: A window covering is described wherein at least one translucent or transparent sheet is suspended vertically and has a plurality of parallel vanes projecting rearwardly therefrom. The vanes are formed from fabric material which has either been rigidified with a rigidifying compound or rigidified by the formation of a pocket into which a rigid slat is inserted. Variations are provided for varying the flexibility of a hinge defined along a juncture line between the vanes and the fabric sheet.

Abstract: The structures and process of both forming and trimming the blind set include the provision of a channel extension or channel plug utilized in a blind set which has the louver manipulation components significantly inward to permit a reasonable amount of outboard removal while maintaining the balance and regular appearance of the blind set. The channel plug acts to stabilize the “U” shaped upper channel by having an insertion portion which not only fills a structurally significant extent of the channel, but fully upwardly engages a pair of oppositely oriented curved inwardly and downwardly lips. An extension portion of the channel plug has a pair of upper rails which match and blend with the terminus of the pair of oppositely oriented curved inwardly and downwardly lips to provide both stability, visual continuity, and continuous upper, frontal, rear, and bottom support as will be had from the particular mounting method employed.

Abstract: A Wind and Sun Tolerant Mesh is disclosed which is composed of either natural or synthetic material, the generally vertical directional strands crossed by horizontal strands, some or all of which individual horizontal strands of which broaden out on one side forming as sill which projects outward at an angle away from the plane surface of the mesh in a venetian blind profile, and wind baffling effect, while simultaneously allowing release of any excess pressure from wind gusting into the opposite side due to the semi permeable nature of the mesh and as there is no restricting sill on the inside surface, thus giving better control and protection to either articles or utilities made from, and/or persons or property protected by, commodities of any various sort constructed wholly or partly from the mesh.

Abstract: A method of making a fabric Venetian blind comprises helical winding of a narrow, elongated strip, which, when properly overlapped and bonded along longitudinal glue lines, will form the vanes and front and rear facings of the blind. The strips may be formed of a single, uniform material, or of adjacent, longitudinally extending portions of relatively opaque and relatively translucent fabric. An alternative embodiment uses the same winding technique to similarly form a structure of only translucent fabric, but with pockets for subsequent insertion of opaque vanes. Several alternative strip configurations and assembly arrangements are disclosed. The disclosed method and structure may also be used to form products for other applications.

Abstract: The invention relates to sun protection installations comprising reflective sun protection lamellae consisting of portions having a toothed upper side disposed at least towards sun radiation influx wherein the individual teeth are formed of at least two tooth sides, and at least one first tooth side is, at least partly, exposed to sun light irradiation. Sun light irradiation, at least within the first lamella portions, can be retro-reflected by one single reflection into the outer space by the first tooth side having an angle of impact &agr;1. The tooth angle of impact &agr;1 of the tooth sides exposed to the sun light are so selected within the first lamella portions facing the irradiation area that in case of parallel sun light larger angles of impact &bgr; of the sun radiation are obtained so that inciding sun light may be reflected back, by one single reflection, to the outer space.

Abstract: A control system for a vertical vane covering for an architectural opening includes a new and improved symmetric headrail having uniquely designed carriers for suspending individual vanes wherein the carriers are designed to minimize skewing relative to a tilt rod as they are moved along the headrail. A pantograph system is utilized to interconnect the carriers, and is connected to the carriers in alignment with the tilt rod so as to minimize skewing. The carriers have pockets formed therein through which the traverse cord extends so that the traverse cord, which moves the carriers along the tilt rod, is secured to a lead carrier closely adjacent to the tilt rod to, again, minimize skewing. Light blocking rails are also attachable to the headrail to substantially bridge the gap between the headrail and the top of the suspended vanes to prevent light from passing therebetween. The tilt rod is keyed to gears in the carriers to facilitate assembly of the control system with all vanes properly aligned.

Abstract: A window cover apparatus that includes a window cover substrate and a mechanism for adjusting the configuration of the substrate relative to a window. Illuminating material such as phosphorescent or luminescent material is provided on or in the substrate to provide illumination in darkness. The illuminating material may contain color pigment and be configured to provide a colorful design in both daylight and darkness.