Abstract: Solar photovoltaic window blind slats for power generation from internal and external light sources are provided are provided. A plurality of solar cells are attached to at least two sides of a slat core. Distributed maximum power point tracking optimizer components are associated with each solar cell. The solar cells and corresponding distributed maximum power point tracking optimizer components on each slat side are connected in electrical series.

Abstract: Programmable and removable automatic motorized roller shade with color LED night lights is a fully automatic programmable motorized window shade incorporates many functionalities including automatic shade open and close, automatic programmable shade position or shade length position, foldable and removable tubular tubes, rechargeable and programmable wireless remote controls, built-in matching color LED night lights and easy removable color shade fabric. The system automatically open and close depending on the programming parameters, software timers and the light level detects through the photoresistor sensor which is programmed and controlled by the micro controller. The system consisting of two or more tubular tubes joined together with at least one set of quick connecting and disconnecting couplings creating a single removable and foldable tubular tube.

Abstract: A cutting machine is employed to cut a window blind which includes a first support stem, a second support stem, and multiple slats. The cutting machine contains: a base, a cutting mount, a rotary cutting disc, a slidable cutter, a switch unit, and a positioning mechanism. The cutting mount includes a first through hole and a second through hole. The rotary cutting disc is configured to rotatably cut the window blind from the first through hole to the second through hole. The slidable cutter is configured to slidably cut the window blind from the second through hole to the first through hole. The switch unit includes a separation portion which moves upwardly and downwardly and has a cutting plate proximate to the slidable cutter. The positioning mechanism is configured to fix the window blind based on a desired cut length of the window blind.

Abstract: A hand anti-cutting structure for a curtain cutting machine contains a base, a cutting mechanism, and a security mechanism. The cutting mechanism includes a through orifice, an insertion segment, an extension segment, an inserting direction, and a cutter. The security mechanism includes a rail assembly, a sliding seat, a touch switch, and a stop member. The rail assembly has at least slidable rail parallel to the inserting direction, and the sliding seat has a movable actuation member and an operation member. The touch switch is secured on a moving path of the actuation member, and when the actuation member moves to abut against the touch switch, the touch switch is turned on by the actuation member. The stop member is connected with and driven by the actuation member, wherein the stop member is located on the insertion segment and is perpendicular to the inserting direction of the cutting mechanism.

Abstract: A method and apparatus of ordering a window covering comprises providing a measuring block that is mounted adjacent an architectural feature to be measured. A digital photograph is taken of the architectural feature with the measuring block. A display resolution of the photograph is determined. A scale of the photograph is determined using the measuring block. A dimension of the architectural feature is calculated based on the scale of the photograph. The window covering is cut to the calculated dimension.

Abstract: A weft of each rung of a ladder cord is formed of two weft threads, an intersecting portion is formed in the weft threads, a slat is inserted between the intersecting portion and one of warp threads of the ladder cord, and a lifting and lowering cord is inserted between the weft threads at a location between the intersecting portion and another of the warp threads.

Abstract: “Decorative Covers” provide consumers with an easy and efficient method for changing the look of vertical Venetian blinds (5) five different ways in a distinct design. The invention is comprised of two separate swatches of cloth material, each of which bears a different color and/or design. These swatches are elongated strip format and in same proportionate sizes to match the Venetian blind slat to which they are to encase. These swatches are attached by stitch on each elongated vertical side and on one horizontal border remains an open proximal end is an open horizontal slit, and on each wall, and through which the attachment pieces of the encased Venetian blind slat fit. The interior border of this proximal end may be lined with a hook-and-loop, buttonhole, snaps and/or straps upon encased Venetian Blind slat. The sleeve may be removed and machine washed. The sleeves are available in a wide variety of colors and designs.

Abstract: A processing module positioning system for window blind slats utilizes a position adjustment assembly to move plural processing modules to predetermined positions. The position adjustment assembly includes a servo motor employed to drive a connecting strap. A position control frame is fixed on the connecting strap, so that when the connecting strap is driven to move, the position control frame will be moved by the connecting strap to drive the processing modules connected on the position control frame to move. The position control frame can be connected to and disconnected from the processing modules.

Abstract: A grooved-stile shutter has a shutter frame with elongated stiles, inserts, louver end caps and louvers. The stiles define grooves disposed along opposite facing stile edges. The elongated inserts are installed into the stile grooves. The louver end caps rotatably mount along the inserts. The louvers removably mount to the louver end caps within the shutter frame. In this manner, the louvers can be individually removed and replaced without disassembly of the assembled shutter frame.

Abstract: The apparatus comprises a vehicle in which a blind cutting machine is installed. A supply of blinds in different sizes, styles, fabrics and finishes is also maintained in the vehicle. The vehicle travels to the customer premise. Once the blind is selected by the customer, the installer measures the architectural feature to be covered to determine the final dimensions of the blind. The installer then cuts the selected blind to the desired size using the cutting machine. After the blind is cut to the proper size, it is mounted on the architectural feature. The selection, measurement, sizing and installation of the blind are accomplished during a single visit to the customer premise.

Abstract: A processing module positioning system for window blind slats utilizes a position adjustment assembly to move plural processing modules to predetermined positions. The position adjustment assembly includes a servo motor employed to drive a connecting strap. A position control frame is fixed on the connecting strap, so that when the connecting strap is driven to move, the position control frame will be moved by the connecting strap to drive the processing modules connected on the position control frame to move. The position control frame can be connected to and disconnected from the processing modules.

Abstract: A method of trimming blinds is disclosed in which at least one spacer is attached to a blind to space the headrail, bottomrail, and window covering between the headrail and bottomrail in relative positions that correspond to openings in a cutting device. A portion of the blind that is desired to be cut is then moved into those openings and cut away.

Abstract: A ladder station supporting device is provided which includes an upper holder assembly having an upper mounting body and a first vertically-oriented holder rotatably fastened to the upper mounting body; a lower holder assembly having a lower mounting body and a second vertically-oriented holder rotatably fastened to the lower mounting body; and a vertically-oriented articulation rod interconnecting the upper and lower holder assemblies, wherein the upper holder assembly may be adjustably positioned along an axis defined by the articulation rod.

Abstract: A universal window blind trimmer is provided with an interchangeable die assembly. Each die assembly has a window blind head rail receiving opening and window blind bottom rail receiving opening of a different size and shape such that it may be used for trimming a wide variety of window blinds. A double action cam pivotable by a handle is operative for trimming the head rail and bottom rail when the handle is pivoted in one direction and cutting a bundled of window blind slats when the handle is pivoted in another direction.

Abstract: An apparatus for cutting elements of a window covering, such elements including at least a head rail, the apparatus comprising a holding plate having an opening for holding the head rail in a selected position; a cutting die disposed adjacent to the holding plate and having an opening for receiving the head rail extending therethrough; and a driving means operable to pivot the cutting die relative to the holding plate so as to cut the head rail.

Abstract: To provide a blind slat resistant to bending with keeping good rotation of a slat. The slat (16) is formed with a lift cord passing hole (16a) through which a lift cord passes, and when a length of the lift cord passing hole (16a) in a slat width direction is b, a slat width is a, and a slat crown height is e, 0.59 · e a + 0.19 ? b a ? - 1.41 · e a + 0.70 is satisfied, and the slat (16) is formed with a protrusion (16g), which crosses an extension line (16d) of the lift cord passing hole (16a) and protrudes beyond a general plane (16e) of the slat, the extension line (16d) connecting an edge (16b) of the lift cord passing hole (16a) in the slat width direction and an edge (16c) of the slat (16) in the slat width direction.

Abstract: An apparatus for trimming the width of blinds of the type having a headrail, and a bottom rail and blind slats, and having a support body with a headrail opening, and a bottom rail opening, and a blind slat opening the blind components being insertable into their openings from one side of the support body, a die located adjacent to the support body, a headrail cutting recess in the die, guides on the support body for the die, enabling the die to move relative to the headrail opening between two positions and a bottom rail and blind slat cutter operable to cut the bottom rail and the blind slats. A modified apparatus can be used to trim the width of a vertical blind having a headrail and control rods. Also disclosed is a method of trimming the width of blind, having a head rail, a bottom rail and blind slats.

Abstract: An apparatus and associated method for manufacturing a window covering for an architectural opening. The apparatus includes a support structure handling assembly, an operating element handling assembly, and a vane handling assembly. The handling assemblies process the respective materials to an assembly station to attach one portion of a vane to the operating elements, and another portion of the vane to the support structure, allowing movement of one portion of the vane relative to other portion of the vane.

Abstract: A method for making expandable slats for blinds includes a step of flatting strip, a step of folding two longitudinal sides of the strip inward and the two longitudinal sides being in contact with each other at a central axis of the strip, a step of pressing the longitudinal sides on the strip, a step of adding adhesive along the two longitudinal sides so as to form two respective adhesive portions, a step of wrapping the strip on a polygonal frame with the adhesive portions facing outward so as to form multiple laminated sections on multiple sides of the polygonal frame, and a step of cutting the laminated sections into sub-sections.

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: The present invention generally provides a blind trimming apparatus including a frame supporting a cutting tool, the cutting tool including a cutting edge, a blade holder supported on the frame for movement with respect to the cutting tool along a cutting path, and a blade insert including a cutting edge and being connectable to the blade holder for movement with the blade holder with respect to the cutting tool to trim blinds between the cutting edge of the cutting tool and the cutting edge of the blade insert. One of the blade holder and the blade insert defines a locating recess and the other of the blade holder and the blade insert includes a locating protrusion, which is engageable in the locating recess to align the blade insert with respect to the blade holder.

Abstract: A ladder station supporting device is provided which includes an upper holder assembly having an upper mounting body and a first vertically-oriented holder rotatably fastened to the upper mounting body; a lower holder assembly having a lower mounting body and a second vertically-oriented holder rotatably fastened to the lower mounting body; and a vertically-oriented articulation rod interconnecting the upper and lower holder assemblies, wherein the upper holder assembly may be adjustably positioned along an axis defined by the articulation rod.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for sizing window coverings slidably extendable from a bay into an aisle of a retail outlet. The method includes the steps of locating the center of the window covering relative to a cutting station utilizing a half scale for removing a portion of the window covering from each of its ends.

Abstract: An apparatus for fabricating tubular vanes and adhering the vanes to a plurality of associated ladder tapes for use in a blind assembly for an architectural opening is described. The apparatus includes a first section for unrolling resin impregnated fabric tape, folding the tape, and cutting the tape to a predetermined length. In a second section of the apparatus, the cut and folded tape is bonded to together along its longitudinal edges to form a tubular vane. In the third and final section, the completed vane is positioned between the vertical cords of a plurality of associated ladder tapes and the vane is adhesively bonded to a cross rung of each. After the vane has been bonded to the cross rungs, the ladder tapes are advanced and prepared for receipt of the next vane. The resulting subassembly of vanes is used to fabricate blind assemblies through the addition of headrails and bottom rails.

Abstract: A method of trimming the width of a blind having a head rail and a fabric panel depending therefrom, by a predetermined trim measurement, by trimming a first length from the head rail, retracting the head rail away from a first side edge of said fabric panel, trimming a second length from the first edge of the fabric panel,; moving the head rail axially relative to the fabric panel so as to retract it from a second side edge of the fabric panel opposite to the first side edge, trimming a third length from the second edge of the fabric panel, and moving the head rail axially relative to the fabric panel whereby to locate it equidistant from the first and the second edges of the fabric panel. Also disclosed is apparatus for trimming such a fabric blind.

Abstract: A vertical blind cut down apparatus has a head rail holding plate with a head rail opening for receiving the head rail. The vertical blind cut down apparatus also has a cutting die to receive the head rail. The cutting die is movable relative to the holding plate for cutting one end of the head rail. The vertical blind cut down apparatus further has a blind holder with a blind material opening. The blind holder receives the blind materials. A blind cutting device is movable relative to the blind holder and cuts the blind material extending through the blind holder. The vertical blind cut down apparatus also has a first movement transmission for moving the head rail cutting die and a second movement transmission for moving the blind cutting device whereby both the blind materials and the head rail are cut.

Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus for automatically cutting a blind. The blind cutting apparatus comprises a framework, a die assembly, a cutting assembly, a clamp assembly, a blind support base, an integral measuring assembly, an electrical control assembly, and a displacement mechanism. The blind is cut to the exact dimensions by the operator who inputs the dimensions of the window and the size of the blind.

Abstract: An extruded thermoplastic member includes a first material, having a first color, and an accent strip, having a second color, coextruded with the first material in the form of a ridge extending outward between corners in the surface of the thermoplastic member. A valance is constructed using such a thermoplastic member, with two such ridges extending along curved portions extending along the top and bottom of the thermoplastic member. The curved portions are formed as parts of closed structures, facilitating a miter sawing process used to cut the thermoplastic member into a central portion and a pair of end portions for the valance.

Abstract: An apparatus for trimming the width of blinds of the type having a headrail, and a bottom rail and blind slats, and having a support body with a headrail opening, and a bottom rail opening, and a blind slat opening the blind components being insertable into their openings from one side of the support body, a die located adjacent to the support body, a headrail cutting recess in the die, guides on the support body for the die, enabling the die to move relative to the headrail opening between two positions and a bottom rail and blind slat cutter operable to cut the bottom rail and the blind slats. A modified apparatus can be used to trim the width of a vertical blind having a headrail and control rods. Also disclosed is a method of trimming the width of blind, having a head rail, a bottom rail and blind slats.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for sizing window coverings slidably extendable from a bay into an aisle of a retail outlet. The method includes the steps of locating the center of the window covering relative to a cutting station utilizing a half scale for removing a portion of the window covering from each of its ends.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for sizing window coverings slidably extendable from a bay into an aisle of a retail outlet. The method includes the steps of locating the center of the window covering relative to a cutting station utilizing a half scale for removing a portion of the window covering from each of its ends.

Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus for automatically cutting a blind. The blind cutting apparatus comprises a framework, a die assembly, a cutting assembly, a clamp assembly, a blind support base, an integral measuring assembly, an electrical control assembly, and a displacement mechanism. The blind is cut to the exact dimensions by the operator who inputs the dimensions of the window and the size of the blind.

Abstract: A Venetian blind cutting machine comprises a mold assembly, which has a main block and a guiding slot on the main block. A sliding block slidably receives in the guiding slot. The guiding slot has at least one stopping potion for stopping the sliding block. The sliding slot is for receiving slats therein between a closed end of the guiding slot and the sliding block. A cutter is slidably provided at the main block of the mold assembly for free shifting. Two driving bars have ends thereof fastening to the cutter. A joint block has two openings for receiving the driving bars therein and holding the driving bar therein by friction. The joint block is fastened to the sliding block. Whereby, the driving bar will drive the cutter, the joint block and the sliding block to move along with it. The sliding block will press the slats first to lock the slats in the guiding slot automatically.

Abstract: An apparatus for trimming the width of blinds of the type having a headrail, and a bottom rail and blind slats, and having a support body with a headrail opening, and a bottom rail opening, and a blind slat opening the blind components being insertable into their openings from one side of the support body, a die located adjacent to the support body, a headrail cutting recess in the die, guides on the support body for the die, enabling the die to move relative to the headrail opening between two positions and a bottom rail and blind slat cutter operable to cut the bottom rail and the blind slats. A modified apparatus can be used to trim the width of a vertical blind having a headrail and control rods. Also disclosed is a method of trimming the width of blind, having a head rail, a bottom rail and blind slats.

Abstract: A head rail holder extension for use with a blind trimming machine having a horizontal support member defining a pathway for a sliding stabilizer block. The sliding stabilizer block is adapted to move along the pathway and is adapted to be locked at positions along the length of the pathway. A channel-shaped member with an opening is attached to the stabilizer block. An adjustable stop is disposed adjacent to the channel shaped member such that the adjustable stop can be moved into a first position where it blocks the opening and a second position where it allows the head rail to extend beyond the stop.

Abstract: A cutting machine of dual blade feeding for a blind of foamed plastics, more specially a cutting machine providing the cutting application for the blind of foamed plastics that includes a filing board with a squeezing blade and a trimming blade mounted relative to the cutting end. The squeezing blade and the trimming blade respond to a shiftable tool block. During the cutting process, when the squeezing blade and the trimming blades move respectively, the shifting corresponding to the shifting status of the tool block can be used to provide the two cutting tools with the resistant force of press cutting to align to the angular position to produce an evenly cut end of the foamed plastics.

Abstract: An apparatus for fabricating tubular vanes and adhering the vanes to a plurality of associated ladder tapes for use in a blind assembly for an architectural opening is described. The apparatus includes a first section for unrolling resin impregnated fabric tape, folding the tape, and cutting the tape to a predetermined length. In a second section of the apparatus, the cut and folded tape is bonded to together along its longitudinal edges to form a tubular vane. In the third and final section, the completed vane is positioned between the vertical cords of a plurality of associated ladder tapes and the vane is adhesively bonded to a cross rung of each. After the vane has been bonded to the cross rungs, the ladder tapes are advanced and prepared for receipt of the next vane. The resulting subassembly of vanes is used to fabricate blind assemblies through the addition of headrails and bottom rails.

Abstract: A vertical blind cutting and hole-punching apparatus for repairing the slats of vertical blinds. The vertical blind cutting and hole-punching apparatus includes a slat support assembly including a board-like slat support member having a main wall with a bottom side and a generally flat top side and also with a first end and a second end and further with a round punch hole being disposed therethrough; and also includes a slat guide assembly including guide members being adjustably mounted upon the flat top side of the board-like slat support member; and further includes a cutter assembly being disposed at an end of the board-like slat support member; and also includes a hole-puncher assembly being mounted upon the board-like slat support member.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for automatic bow adjustment for a venetian blind assembly machine, said bow adjustment station comprising rollers (48; 104, 106) for guiding, bending and levelling a strip material (43; 112), and further comprising a forming section (36; 102) where mating concave and convex upper and lower form rollers (50; 108, 110) are arranged for creating a transverse curvature in the strip material, further comprises the steps of: providing levelling through means for offsetting (34; 100, 102) in order to straighten the bow of the strip material (43; 112) within a predetermined deviation on a predetermined length of strip material; measuring the deviation through optical means (146) providing a deviation signal; and adjusting the levelling by said means for offsetting (34; 100) through the deviation signal, if said measured deviation exceeds a predetermined deviation, in order to keep the deviation within said predetermined deviation.

Abstract: An apparatus (10) is provided for automatically cutting strip materials (22) into slats (20) for a venetian blind. The apparatus (10) has a feeding station (12), a cutting station (14), a punching station (16) and a laddering station (18). Strip materials (22) for the slats (20) are stored in a magazine (24) of the station (12) and they are fed one at a time to the cutting station (14) for cutting into slats (20) of preset length after slots (46) have been punched. The slats (20) are then fed to the laddering station (18) for assembling into blinds. A sensor (56,58) is positioned to sense remnants of the strip material (22) and the remnants are automatically moved back to the feeding station (12) where they are lifted off the feeding path for ejection by a following strip (12).

Abstract: A machine for cutting the Venetian blind comprises a base on which a movable seat is mounted. The movable seat is provided with at least two fixed tools for locating the Venetian blind. The movable seat is driven by a tool driving device to displace, so as to locate a predetermined tool at the working position. A cutter driving device drives a cutter to advance to execute the operation of cutting the Venetian blind.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for sizing window coverings slidably extendable from a bay into an isle of a retail outlet. The method includes the steps of locating the center of the window covering relative to a cutting station utilizing a half scale for removing a portion of the window covering from each of its ends.

Abstract: An apparatus for forming notches on the edge of a slat; e.g. a wood slat. The apparatus includes a feeding station to feed a slat to a punching station that locates the slat along a longitudinal edge and a leading edge of the slat. A stripper plate positively locates the slat within the punch prior to the notches being punched. A pair of punches having a beveled region with a v-shaped cutout are used to form the lift hole notches.

Abstract: A method of cutting a window covering having a longitudinal axis and a second axis substantially perpendicular to said longitudinal axis to a specified length includes providing a cutting apparatus including a base having a cutting surface. The cutting apparatus has a cutting blade slidably mounted thereon for sliding along a movement axis toward and away from the cutting surface. The window covering is then positioned atop the cutting surface of the base and the cutting blade is moved along the movement axis and toward the cutting surface to cut the window covering to the specified length. The movement axis has a first component extending substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the window covering and substantially perpendicular to the second axis of the window covering and a second component extending substantially parallel to the second axis of the window covering.

Abstract: A vertical blind track is inverted U-shaped with a slot defined in the lower portion and includes two end pieces respectively received in opposite ends of the track. Each of the end pieces includes a through hole defined parallel to the track and aligning with each other. A shaft is received in the track and has two opposite ends respectively received in a corresponding end piece. The shaft penetrates multiple clamp devices to clamp the vertical slats. The end piece is made of foam plastic and fully fills the interior space of the track when received in the track to prevent the track from deforming when it is being sawed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for automatic bow adjustment for a venetian blind assembly machine, said bow adjustment station comprising rollers (48; 104, 106) for guiding, bending and leveling a strip material (43; 112), and further comprising a forming section (36; 102) where mating concave and convex upper and lower form rollers (50; 108, 110) are arranged for creating a transverse curvature in the strip material, further comprises the steps of: providing leveling through means for offsetting (34; 100, 102) in order to straighten the bow of the strip material (43; 112) within a predetermined deviation on a predetermined length of strip material; measuring the deviation through optical means (146) providing a deviation signal; and adjusting the leveling by said means for offsetting (34; 100) through the deviation signal, if said measured deviation exceeds a predetermined deviation, in order to keep the deviation within said predetermined deviation.

Abstract: A mini-blind cutter for selective manual in-store sizing of a first mini-blind product and a second mini-blind product. Each of the mini-blind products include a head rail, a plurality of slats, and a bottom rail having a different geometry and or material composition. A die assembly is movable from a first position to a second position includes a first and second region to receive the first and second mini-blind products. A blade carrier assembly includes at least two blade carriers and permits permit independent translation of the blade carriers to accommodate the different sized mini-blind products.

Abstract: A blind cut-down apparatus for cutting and sawing a blind having at least a head rail component, and blind slats suspended from the head rail, and having a blind holding plate with an opening for holding the components in position for cutting, a slat cutting saw moveable relative to the holding plate for cutting blind components held in the holding plate, and including a movement device for moving the cutting saw and the cutting die holder. Also disclosed is a method of saw cutting ends of blind components in which the blind components are held in a head plate and in which a saw balde cuts the components.

Abstract: A cutting apparatus for blinds of the type having a head rail, a bottom rail, and a plurality of slats includes a frame defined by a base and a pair of opposed end walls with a blind receiving and severing area near one of the end walls. A drive screw supported by the end walls extends through a carriage slidable on the base for linear movement between the end walls, whereby the carriage can be driven along the length of the base by rotation of the drive screw. A knife on the carriage severs an end of a blind as the carriage advances through the blind receiving and severing area. A mandrel is removably mounted on an end wall in the blind receiving and severing area for receiving and supporting a head rail of the blind for inhibiting movement and /or distortion of the blind during cutting. A clamping block releasably clamps a blind in the frame.

Abstract: A mini-blind cutter for selective manual in-store sizing of a first mini-blind product and a second mini-blind product. Each of the mini-blind products include a head rail, a plurality of slats, and a bottom rail having a different geometry and or material composition. A die assembly is movable from a first position to a second position includes a first and second region to receive the first and second mini-blind products. A blade carrier assembly includes at least two blade carriers and permits permit independent translation of the blade carriers to accommodate the different sized mini-blind products.