Patents by Inventor Robert W. Collett

Robert W. Collett has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 6708750
    Abstract: A system for effecting and controlling the movement of a window covering between different positions. In particular, the present invention includes a motor coupled to a window covering by way of a drive assembly. The drive assembly includes one or more hollow shafts, a drive shaft, and a torque sensing mechanism. The drive shaft is coupled between the motor and a hollow, sliding shaft by way of the torque sensing mechanism. Rotation of the motor causes a lift cord to wind or unwind from the hollow sliding shaft wherein the frictional engagement of the lift cord against the hollow, sliding shaft causes the shaft to slide. Additionally, the present invention includes a method for detecting and responding to disturbances in force sensing devices coupled to the lift cord.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Techno Patenten B.V.
    Inventors: Robert W. Collett, Daniel Huber, James E. Peterson
  • Patent number: 6680594
    Abstract: An apparatus for effecting and controlling the movement of a window covering member between different positions in response to a disturbance of the window covering. Also, an apparatus for assisting the manipulation of a window covering by way of potential energy stored in a spring. Also a torque sending device having a design that is insensitive to component tolerances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Techniku, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert W. Collett, Daniel A. Huber, Steven J. Wolf, Paul Y. Timmer
  • Publication number: 20030075283
    Abstract: The present Invention comprises a novel and improved system for effecting and controlling the movement of a member between different positions, by way of example only, for opening and closing window shades. In particular, and without limitation, the Invention comprises a novel method to recognize and respond to obstructions in applications for motorizing lift products, as well as to provide touch control of the lift system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Applicant: TECHNO PATENTEN B.V.
    Inventors: Robert W. Collett, Daniel Huber, James E. Peterson
  • Patent number: 5195569
    Abstract: A fenestration control includes a single loop cord in association with guide members and a drive pulley built into a generally channel-shaped framework and is specifically designed for use with pleated or cell-type shades. The entire shade assembly is capable of being removably installed within window openings and the like and may be operated manually, or by single or dual motor drives depending upon the size and load requirements of the shade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1993
    Assignee: Daylighting, Inc.
    Inventors: James E. Peterson, Robert W. Collett
  • Patent number: 5170108
    Abstract: A motor controller for reversibly driving a member to be driven along a predetermined path of travel is capable of sensing the speed of the member to be driven and to compare with a predetermined speed level and to adjust the motor drive until the rate of advancement of the driven member corresponds with the predetermined speed level. The motor drive means is completely deactivated if the actual speed should not reach a predetermined start-up threshold within a selected time interval after the motor is initially turned on or should drop beneath the stay-on threshold level which is set beneath the desired speed. The motor drive can also be regulated to run at different reduced or normal speed settings depending upon its intended application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1992
    Assignee: Daylighting, Inc.
    Inventors: James E. Peterson, Robert W. Collett
  • Patent number: 4852627
    Abstract: A fenestration control includes a single loop cord in association with guide members and a drive pulley built into a generally channel-shaped framework and is specifically designed for use with pleated or cell-type shades. The entire shade assembly is capable of being removably installed within window openings and the like and may be operated manually, or by single or dual motor drives depending upon the size and load requirements of the shade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 1, 1989
    Assignee: Daylighting, Inc.
    Inventors: James E. Peterson, Robert W. Collett