DRAPERY CENTER TRANSMISSION LUG COUPLER

Abstract

A coupler for a drapery rod system that is configured to connect a pair of adjacent drapery rods and facilitate either independent rotation of the pair of rods in one configuration while facilitating rotation in unison in another configuration. In one arrangement, the coupler includes a lug connected to a bracket positioned at the middle of the adjacent drapery rods. The lug includes an axle extending a length between opposing ends and includes a bearing housing connected to each side of the axle. In one configuration a drapery rod is connected to each end of the axle and its respective bearing housing, which facilitates independent rotation of each rod. Another configuration, a coupler is connected to each side of axle, outside the bearing housing, which facilitates rotation of the adjacent rods in unison. In this way, the coupler facilitates installation of adjacent rods that may rotate independently or in unison.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/754,052 which was filed on Nov. 1, 2018, the entirety of which is incorporated herein fully by reference.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

This disclosure relates to window coverings. More specifically and without limitation, this disclosure relates to a rotating drapery rod system.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Architectural coverings, such as curtains, shades, draperies and the like are old and well known in the art and are frequently used to provide privacy and to limit the amount of light that is permitted to pass through a window and into a room or building. There are countless types, forms and designs of architectural coverings known in the art. The term architectural covering is used to describe any and all of these types, forms and designs including blinds, shades, draperies, and the like.

One form of architectural covering of particular interest in this application is commonly referred to as draperies. Common components of draperies include a drapery rod connected to brackets positioned above or adjacent to a window or door. In one arrangement of a drapery, the drapery rod rotates and drives the shade material across the length of the drapery rod. This arrangement is more fully described in Applicant's related U.S. Pat. No. 9,095,908 entitled Rotatable Drapery rod For Moving A Window Covering, issued on Aug. 4, 2015 which is fully incorporated herein, including related applications; and Applicant's related patent application Ser. No. 14/786,877 filed on Oct. 23, 2015 entitled Motorized Drapery Apparatus, System and Method of Use which is also fully incorporated by reference herein, including any related applications.

In these related patent applications, a motorized drapery apparatus is presented having a plurality if rings positioned around or looped over the drapery rod (also referred to as the rotatable drapery rod). At least one ring is engaged with a guide structure in the exterior surface of the drapery rod. Shade material is attached to these rings by way of pins or hooks or any other arrangement. As the drapery rod is rotated, these rings drive across the length of the drapery rod thereby opening and closing the shade material.

One problem associated with using a drapery rod system is when they are used to cover an elongated area, such as a bank of windows. In these applications, using a single elongated drapery rod can be impracticable as long drapery rods can be difficult to ship, they can be difficult to get into a house, they can be difficult to fit in an elevator, they can sag or go out-of-round, they can be overly expensive, among other problems and challenges. Alternatively, using multiple independent drapery systems can be undesirable as well. This is because using multiple independent drapery rod systems can be expensive, as each independent drapery rod system has its own motor, control system, power source or power connection, brackets, among other redundant features. In addition, using multiple independent drapery rod systems can pose control issues. That is, the multiple independent drapery rod systems may not operate in unison with one another. In addition, installing multiple independent drapery rod systems can pose problems.

Thus it is a primary object of the disclosure to provide a drapery rod system that improves upon the state of the art.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that is easy to use.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that is simple in design.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that facilitates quiet operation.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that facilitates smooth operation.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that is relatively inexpensive or affordable.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that has a minimum number of parts.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that facilitates joining adjacent rotating drapery rods.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that facilitates joining adjacent rotating drapery rods while allowing them to rotate independently.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that facilitates joining adjacent rotating drapery rods while allowing them to rotate in unison with one another.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that facilitates joining adjacent rotating drapery rods while allowing them to either rotate independently with one another or rotate in unison with one another.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that can be used with any shade material.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that facilitates robust operation.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that helps eases installation.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that allows linking an endless number of drapery rods together.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that allows covering large banks of windows.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that helps reduce light gaps.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that can be manually operated as well as operated by motor.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that is aesthetically pleasing.

Another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that has a unique design.

Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that can be easily converted from a system where adjacent drapery rods rotate independently to adjacent drapery rods rotating in unison.

These and other objects, features, or advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the specification, claims and drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

A coupler for a drapery rod system is presented that is configured to connect a pair of adjacent drapery rods and facilitate either independent rotation of the pair of drapery rods in one configuration while facilitating rotation in unison in another configuration. In one arrangement, the coupler includes a lug connected to a bracket positioned at the middle of the adjacent drapery rods. The lug includes an axle extending a length between opposing ends and includes a bearing housing connected to each side of the axle. In one configuration a drapery rod is connected to each end of the axle and its respective bearing housing, which facilitates independent rotation of each drapery rod. In another configuration, a coupler is connected to each side of the axle, outside of the bearing housing, which facilitates rotation of the adjacent drapery rods in unison. In this way, the coupler facilitates installation of adjacent drapery rods that may rotate independently or in unison.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a view of drapery rod system.

FIG. 2 is a side view of a bracket.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a drapery rod system.

FIG. 4 is a view of various components of a drapery rod system.

FIG. 5 is a side view of a bracket and a driver ring, the bracket having a mounting plate, a support arm, a collar, and a driver ring.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of various elements of a drapery rod system.

FIG. 7 is a view of a coupler system.

FIG. 8 an end view of a coupler system.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a coupler system.

FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a coupler system.

FIG. 11 is an end view of a coupler system.

FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of a coupler system.

FIG. 13A is a first perspective view of a coupler.

FIG. 13B is a second perspective view of a coupler.

FIG. 13C is a first end view of a coupler.

FIG. 13D is a side view of a coupler.

FIG. 13E is a second end view of a coupler.

FIG. 14 is an end view of a coupler and a drapery rod of a drapery rod system.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an end of a drapery rod and a coupler.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an end of a drapery rod and a coupler.

FIG. 17 is a view of a motor controller assembly, a finial, a motor, and a connection assembly.

FIG. 18 is a view of various elements of a drapery rod system.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of various elements of a drapery rod system.

FIG. 20 is a view of a coupler assembly.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a coupler system.

FIG. 22 is an exploded view of a coupler system.

FIG. 23 is a perspective exploded view of a coupler system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that mechanical, procedural, and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the disclosure is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

As used herein, the terminology such as vertical, horizontal, top, bottom, front, back, end, sides, left, right, and the like are referenced according to the views, pieces, parts, components and figures presented. It should be understood, however, that the terms are used only for purposes of description, and are not intended to be used as limitations. Accordingly, orientation of an object or a combination of objects may change without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

System:

With reference to the figures, a drapery rod system 10 (system 10) is presented. System 10 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to facilitate the opening and closing of shade material 12. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the drapery rod system 10 has a top side 14, a bottom side 16, a front side 18, a back side 20, a left side 22 and a right side 24. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the drapery rod system 10 includes the following component pieces, among others: drapery rod 26, brackets 28, finials 30, motor control assembly 32, power source 34, rings 35 including one or more idler rings 36, partial driver rings 38, full driver rings 40, among other components and features. The drapery rod system 10 also includes a coupler assembly 42 having a lug 44 with a hub 46, an axle 48 extending a length between a pair of opposing ends 50, a bearing assembly 52 connected to each end 50 of the axle 48 having at least one bearing 54 and an optional coupler 56 connected to each end 50 of the axle 48, among other components and features.

Drapery Rod:

Drapery rod system 10 includes a drapery rod 26. Drapery rod 26 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to support as well as open and close shade material 12. In the arrangement shown, as one example, drapery rod 26, is formed of an elongated member that extends a length between an opposing ends 58. Drapery rod 26 may be formed of a single, unitary member or may be formed of a plurality of connected members that form a drapery rod 26. In the arrangement shown, as one example, drapery rod system 10 includes a pair of drapery rods 26 connected together at their inward ends 58 at a center-positioned bracket 28 using a coupler assembly 42, as is described herein.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from an end 58, drapery rod 26 has a generally cylindrical shape with a generally smooth exterior surface 60 and a hollow interior 62. In the arrangement shown, as one example, exterior surface 60 is generally cylindrical in shape and has a smooth surface that includes guide structure 64 therein.

Guide structure 64 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to facilitate the movement of idler rings 36, partial driver rings 38 and full driver rings 40 along the length of the drapery rod 26 as drapery rod 26 is rotated. In one arrangement, as is shown, guide structure 64 is formed of a helical guide structure positioned in exterior surface 46. The helical guide structure can be a left-hand guide structure, a right-hand guide structure, or both, or a plurality or combination of left-hand guide structures and/or right-hand guide structures. Guide structure 64 can either be grooves, indentations, protrusions, threads or any other feature or the like, as is described herein in or on the exterior surface 60 of drapery rod 26. Guide structure 64 can either ground or machined into the surface of drapery rod 26, knurled into the surface of drapery rod 26, cast or formed into the surface of drapery rod 26, extruded into the exterior surface of drapery rod 26, or created by any other means or methods known in the art.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, four leads or four grooves are presented as guide structure 64. These leads are broken into two pairs, a first pair having a right hand twist, and a second pair having a left hand twist. The two grooves of both the first pair and the second pair are positioned opposite to one another on drapery rod 26. Or, said another way, the two grooves are approximately diametrically opposed to one another and remain this way throughout their length as they rotate around the exterior surface 60 of drapery rod 26. The two pairs, the left hand twist pair and the right hand twist pair are equally spaced to one another. As is shown, the two pairs of grooves cross one another in a generally perpendicularly manner or at a 90 degree angle intermittently along the length of drapery rod 26, however any other angle of intersection is hereby contemplated for use, which may be greater than or less than perpendicular or ninety degrees. As the pitch of the grooves of guide structure 64 changes the angle of intersection of the left hand twist and the right hand twist changes.

As is shown, the two pairs of grooves begin and/or end at the same position on rotatable drapery rod 26 and twist opposite one another. When the two pairs of grooves cross or intersect one another, both grooves cross one another at the same position, opposite one another on the drapery rod 26. This is accomplished by having a consistent angle of rotation throughout the length of the grooves, and maintaining the position of the grooves within close tolerances throughout the length of the drapery rod 26. However, a varying pitch or angle of rotation is also hereby contemplated for use.

Drapery rod 26 includes a hollow interior 62. Hollow interior 62 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to reduce the amount of material needed to form a drapery rod 26, as well as receive components of a system such as finials 30, a motor control assembly 32, coupler assembly 42 or components thereof or other elements. In the arrangement shown, as one example, hollow interior 62 includes an interior surface 66 which is generally smooth and cylindrical in shape and is positioned in approximate parallel spaced alignment to exterior surface 60. With that said, due to the wall thickness of drapery rod 26 the diameter of the interior surface 66 is less than the diameter of exterior surface 60.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, hollow interior 62 includes one or more interior features 68 that protrude inward from the interior surface 66 which may be used to connect to the interior surface 66 of drapery rod 26 and thereby facilitate rotation of the drapery rod 26. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the interior features 68 shown extend the length of the drapery rod 26.

Brackets:

Drapery rod system 10 includes brackets 28. Brackets 28 are formed of any suitable size, shape and design and are configured to attach drapery rod 26 to wall or other structure. In the arrangement shown, as one example, brackets 28, includes a mounting plate 70, a support arm 72, and a collar 74. Mounting plate 70 is configured to attach the brackets 28 to the wall or other structure. Support arm 72 is configured to extend the collar 74 away from the mounting plate 70, wall or other structure. 74 60 is configured to facilitate connection to drapery rod 26 while allowing rotation of drapery rod 26. This connection of brackets 28 to drapery rods 26 may come by way of intermediary components such as coupler assembly 42 positioned at the center-positioned bracket 28.

While three brackets 28 are shown in use, with a pair of drapery rods 26 connected together at a center positioned bracket 28 using a coupler assembly 42, any number of brackets 28 are hereby contemplated for use with any number of drapery rods 26, as is any configuration of brackets 28.

Finials:

Drapery rod system 10 includes finials 30. Finials 30 are formed of any suitable size, shape and design. In one arrangement, finials 30 include a decorative element 76 connected at their outward end which serves a decorative purpose and/or serves to close the outward end of final 30. In another arrangement, as shown, finials 30 include a hollow interior 78 that may serve as a place to house components of drapery rod system 10 therein such as a motor control assembly 32 or other components. In one arrangement, as shown, the extension or shape of finial 30 is configured to mimic the shape and configuration of the drapery rod 26. In the arrangement shown, finial 30 is connected to the outward side of the outward positioned bracket 28.

Motor Control Assembly:

Drapery rod system 10 includes at least one motor control assembly 32. Motor control assembly 32 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to facilitate motorized operation of drapery rod system 10. In one arrangement, each drapery rod 26 includes its own motor control assembly 32, this is known as an uncoupled state, wherein each drapery rod 26 rotates independently of other drapery rods 26. In another arrangement, two or more drapery rods 26 are driven by a single motor control assembly 32, this is known as a coupled state, wherein adjacent drapery rods 26 are coupled together through coupler assembly 42 and thereby rotate simultaneously or in unison under the power of a single motor control assembly. In the arrangement shown, as one example, motor control assembly 32 includes a motor controller 80, a microprocessor 82, memory 84, a receiver or transceiver 86 (transceiver), antenna 88, a printed circuit board 90 (PCB), a motor 92, a gearbox 94, and a connection assembly 96, among other components.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, a motor controller 80 is any component or combination of components that are configured to control operation of motor 92. Microprocessor 82 is any computing device that is configured to receive inputs, processes these inputs according to information or instructions or software or code stored in memory 84 and output commands. Memory 84 is any information storage device that is configured to receive information, store information and provide information on request of microprocessor 82. Memory 84 may be formed of flash, dram, ram, a hard-drive or any combination thereof or the like. Microprocessor 82 and memory 84 may be formed of a single combined unit, separate but operatively connected components, or a plurality of separate but operatively connected components or the like or any combination thereof. Receiver or transceiver 86 may be formed of any communication device that facilitates signal transmission through wired and/or wireless communication. When operating in only a receive mode (one-way communication), transceiver 86 acts as only a receiver. When operating in send and receive mode (two-way communication), transceiver 86 acts both as a receiver as well as a transmitter. Antenna 88 is formed of any component configured to receive wireless signals as well as transmit wireless signals in over-the-air communication and may be formed of a loop antenna, a fractal antenna, a slot antenna, a monopole antenna, or any other form of an antenna. Printed circuit board 90 is configured of any structural component that is configured receive electrical components of the motor controller 80 while providing selected electrical isolation as well selected electrical connection between electronic components. Motor 92 is any component that receives electric power and converts this power into motion. Gearbox 94 is any component that changes the rotational speed of an output shaft of a motor 92 to a desired speed through an arrangement of gears or other components. Connection assembly 96 is any arrangement of components that facilitate connection of motor control assembly 32 to the other components of drapery rod system 10 such as brackets 28 and/or drapery rod 26 so as to facilitate operation of the drapery rod system 10.

It is hereby contemplated that motor control assembly 32 may be formed of any other configuration. In one arrangement, motor control assembly 32 may be positioned within the hollow interior 62 of drapery rod 26, either on the inward end or the outward end.

In the arrangement shown, motor control assembly 32 includes a lug 44 positioned at its outward end, a coupler 56 positioned at its inward end and a bearing assembly 52 positioned just inward of the lug 44. These elements are further described herein.

Power Source:

Drapery rod system 10 includes a power source 34. Power source 34 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to provide power to electronic components of drapery rod system 10, such as motor control assembly 32. In the arrangement shown, as one example, power source includes a battery tube 98 that is electrically connected to drapery rod system 10 by way of lead 100. In the arrangement shown, as one example, battery tube 98 is formed as an elongated cylindrical member and houses a plurality of batteries 102. Use of an external battery tube 98 provides the benefit of being able to place the power source 34 at any external position in a hidden manner behind shade material 12. Alternatively, power source 34 may be positioned within drapery rod 26 or finials 30 or within brackets 28, or within any other component of the drapery rod system 10. However, any other configuration of power source is hereby contemplated for use, such as, direct line voltage, a solar cell, power over Ethernet, or any other form of power or connection to power.

Shade Material:

Drapery rod system 10 includes shade material 12. Shade material 12 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is generally configured of a piece of material that hangs from drapery rod 26 by way of rings 35. Shade material 12 is configured of a piece of material that serves both aesthetic purposes as well as light remediation purposes. For one way opening draperies, shade material 12 may be formed of one piece of material, whereas in center opening or closing draperies may be formed of more than one piece of shade material. In the arrangement shown in FIG. 1, as one example, shade material 12 extends from an upper edge 104 to a lower edge 106 to an exterior edge 108 to an interior edge 110 in a generally panel like manner.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, shade material 12 is connected at its upper edge 104 to a plurality of rings 35 that are positioned around drapery rod 26. As rings move along the length of the drapery rod 26 shade material 12 is moved from an open position to a closed position or from a closed position to an open position or anywhere there between.

Rings:

Drapery rod system 10 includes a plurality of rings 35. Rings 35 are formed of any suitable size, shape and design and are generally configured to facilitate connection of shade material 12 and drapery rod 26 while allowing movement of shade material 12 along the length of drapery rod 26. In the arrangement shown, as one example, there are three similar rings that form part of the system 10 that generally include idler rings 36, partial driver rings 38, and full driver rings 40. In the arrangement shown, as one example, idler rings 36, partial driver rings 38, and full driver rings 40 all include a hoop member 112, an interior member 114, and a connection member 116 among other components, features, and the like.

Hoop Member:

In the arrangement, as one example, hoop member 112 is formed of a generally cylindrical member that is configured to fit around drapery rod 26. In the arrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from the front, hoop member 112 is generally narrow in width as compared to the length of drapery rod 26. In the arrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from the side, hoop member 96 is a relatively thin cylindrical member having a hollow interior. Hoop member 112 serves both a structural purpose as well as an aesthetic purpose. Aesthetically, hoop member 112 is configured to have a pleasing aesthetic appearance, and may have the same surface treatment or appearance of that as the drapery rod 26. Structurally, hoop member 112 is formed of a durable and/or rigid member that has the strength to support shade material 12 while moving shade material 12 between an open and closed position along drapery rod 26. While a cylindrical hoop member 112 is shown, hoop member 112 may take on any other shape or design such as square, rectangular, octagonal, or any other suitable or aesthetically pleasing design. In one arrangement, hoop member 112 is formed of a metallic material to provide optimum strength of rigidity as well as to match the material of drapery rod 26 (which is generally metallic material), however any other material is hereby contemplated for use. Hoop member 112 is configured to house and hold an interior member 114.

Interior Member:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, interior member 114 is formed of a generally cylindrical member that is configured to fit around drapery rod 26 as well as within hoop member 112. In the arrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from the front, interior member 114 is generally narrow in width as compared to the length of drapery rod 26 and is sized and shaped to fit within hoop member 112. In the arrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from the side, interior member 114 is a relatively thin generally cylindrical member having a hollow interior.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, interior member 114 includes an exterior surface that is configured to engage the interior surface of hoop member 112 and an interior surface that is configured to engage the exterior surface 60 of drapery rod 26.

In one arrangement, as stated herein, drapery rod 26 and or hoop member 112 are formed of a metallic material for strength, rigidity, durability, and aesthetic purposes. While metallic materials provide these benefits, metallic materials have substantial drawbacks including noise and vibrational issues. In one arrangement, to minimize noise and vibrational issues, interior member 114 is formed of a non-metallic material such as a plastic, a composite, a nylon material, a polymer, UHMW material, or any other non-metallic material. In one arrangement, interior member 114 is formed of a material which has a low coefficient of friction and/or is self-lubricating so as to facilitate low frictional sliding across a length of drapery rod 26 as well as quiet operation. In one arrangement, interior member 114 is formed of a material which has a lower durometer than the materials which form drapery rod 26 and/or hoop member 112 so as to facilitate vibrational dampening and/or noise reduction. In this way, forming interior member 114 out of a non-metallic material when drapery rod 26 and/or hoop member 112 are formed of a metallic material provide substantial operational advantages.

In a one-way opening drapery application, a plurality of idler rings 36 are positioned around the drapery rod 26 on the non-opening side. The number of idler rings 36 needed depends on the length of the drapery rod 26 as well as the property of the materials of the shade element 12. Positioned on the opening side of the plurality of idler rings 36 is a full driver ring 40. Positioned on the opening side of the full driver ring 40 is a partial driver ring 38.

In a center opening and/or center closing drapery application, a plurality of idler rings 36 are positioned around the drapery rod 26 on the outward sides of drapery rod 26. The number of idler rings 36 needed depends on the length of the drapery rod 26 as well as the property of the materials of the shade element 12. Positioned on the inward side of the plurality of idler rings 36 is a full driver ring 40. Positioned on the inward side of the full driver ring 40 is a partial driver ring 38.

The arrangement of a plurality of idler rings 36 followed by a full driver ring 40 followed by a partial driver ring 38 provides operational advantages, namely a partial driver ring 38 drives itself along the length of drapery rod 26 while allowing the full driver ring to “crush” the shade material 12 at the fully closed position, which means to cause the full driver ring 40 to either engage directly the partial driver ring 38 or thereby engage in close proximity the partial driver ring 38, which has the effect of forcing an increased amount of shade material 12 at the fully closed position, which has the effect of reducing light gaps in the shade material 12 at the fully closed position.

As the drapery rod system 10 rotates, the rings 35 are driven along the length of the drapery rod 26 to move the shade material 12 between and opened and a closed position. More specifically, full driver ring 40 engages the guide structure 64 of drapery rod 26 which causes linear movement of full driver ring 40 along the length of drapery rod 26. As the full driver ring 40 linearly moves along drapery rod 26, full driver ring 40 has a tendency to push or pull idler rings 36 and partial driver ring 38 as the shade material 12 moves between the opened position and the closed position.

Idler Rings:

Drapery rod system 10 includes a plurality of idler rings 36. Idler rings 36 are formed of any suitable size, shape and design and are generally configured to facilitate connection of shade material 12 and drapery rod 26 while allowing movement of shade material 12 along the length of drapery rod 26. In the arrangement shown, as one example, idler rings 36 have hoop member 112, interior member 114, In one arrangement, idler rings include a stabilizer 116, which is an inward extension of the interior member 114 that follows the contour of the exterior surface 60 of drapery rod 26. This stabilizer 116 helps to stabilize the idler ring 36 as it moves along the drapery rod 26. Idler rings 36 are configured to allow free sliding across a length of drapery rod 26. As such, the interior surface of stabilizer 116 of idler ring 36 is smooth and free of any features or teeth or other members that engage guide structure 64. As such, when shade material 12 is connected to idler ring 36, positioned around drapery rod 26, shade material 12 can be easily pulled and/or slid along a length of drapery rod 26. As idler ring 36 moves along the length of drapery rod 26 the engagement between the interior surface of stabilizer 116 and the exterior surface of guide element 26 provides guidance and alignment to idler ring 36, thereby preventing the idler ring 36 from tilting, canting, or binding on drapery rod 26. In addition, due to the material properties of the non-metallic material that forms interior member 114 and/or stabilizer 116 as idler ring 36 moves over drapery rod 26, the material which forms the interior member 114 and/or stabilizer 116 absorbs vibrations, reduces noise, and provides smooth, low friction sliding. In contrast, if stabilizer 116 is formed of a metallic material, like drapery rod 26, this engagement would have a tendency to click, rattle, or make other noises stabilizer 116 passes over guide structure 64 due to the metal on metal engagement.

Partial Driver Ring:

Drapery rod system 10 includes at least one partial driver ring 38. More specifically, center opening drapery rod systems 10 include a pair of partial driver rings 38 positioned at the center of drapery rod 26 and inward of full driver ring 40 which is inward of a plurality of idler rings 36. One-way opening drapery rod systems 10 include one partial driver ring 38 positioned at the opening/closing side of the drapery rod 26 and inward of full driver ring 40 and a plurality of idler rings 36.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, partial driver ring 38 is similar to, if not identical to, idler ring 36 with one difference being the inclusion of at least one tooth 118. Tooth 118 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is formed to engage guide structure 64 of drapery rod 26 so as to facilitate linear movement along the length of drapery rod 26.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, tooth 118 extends in a triangular cross-sectional shape downward from or outward from the interior surface of stabilizer 116. However, any other shape is hereby contemplated for use such as square, round, rectangular or any other shape.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, tooth 118 extends at an angle that corresponds to the approximate angle that guide structure 64 extends across the exterior surface 0 of drapery rod 26. By extending the entire interior surface 118 of stabilizer 116 this provides tooth 118 with maximum surface area of engagement with guide structure 64; however, any other arrangement is hereby contemplated for use. Any other number of teeth 118 are hereby contemplated for use such as one, two, three, four, five, six or more that are similarly arranged to engage guide structure 64. While tooth 118 is shown as a protrusion extending outward from interior surface of stabilizer 116, the opposite arrangement is hereby contemplated for use where tooth 118 is formed of a recess, groove, or other deviation into the interior surface of stabilizer 116. When tooth 118 protrudes from interior surface of stabilizer 116 tooth 118 is configured to be received within a groove of guide structure 64 whereas when tooth 118 is a recess into interior surface of stabilizer 116 tooth 118 is configured to receive a rail, thread, or other protrusion of guide structure 64.

In one arrangement shown, as one example, tooth 118 is positioned at the approximate center of the stabilizer 116 which is also positioned at the top of partial driver ring 38. In this position, tooth 118 is position opposite of connection member 119. This arrangement provides the functional advantage that as shade material 12 pulls downward on partial driver ring 38 through its connection to connection member 119, this causes tooth 118 to be pulled downward into maximum engagement with guide structure 64. However, any other arrangement is hereby contemplated for use where tooth 118 or multiple teeth 118 are positioned at other positions along partial driver ring 38. In one arrangement, interior member 114 may be moved or rotated with respect to hoop member 112 so as to adjust the position of stabilizer 116 and or tooth 118. Alternatively, connection member 119 may be moved relative to interior member 114 and/or hoop member 112 so as to adjust the position of stabilizer 116 and or tooth 118.

During operation of drapery rod system 10, as drapery rod 26 is rotated, due to the weight of shade material 12 pulling down on partial driver ring 38, this causes tooth 118 to engage with guide structure 64. As the drapery rod 26 is rotated, the engagement between tooth 118 and guide structure 64, coupled with the downward force on partial driver ring 38, causes partial driver ring 38 to laterally move along the length of drapery rod 26. This lateral movement continues until partial driver ring 38 engages a non-movable object such as bracket 28 or stop, such as at the fully closed position, at which point partial driver ring 38 no longer moves laterally which causes the tooth 118 to come of out of guide structure 64 as the drapery rod 26 continues to rotate. As the drapery rod 26 continues to rotate, while partial driver ring 38 is not engaged with guide structure 64, this allows full driver ring 40 to drive closer toward partial driver ring 38, thereby crushing the shade material 12 at the fully closed position, thereby reducing light gaps.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the partial driver ring 38 is allowed to disengage the guide structure 64 by the stabilizer 116 only fitting partially around the drapery rod 26. By stabilizer 116 only fitting around a portion of drapery rod 26, this allows partial driver 38 to selectively move out of engagement with guide structure 64 when the forces moving linearly are greater than the forces of moving vertically. Similarly, by stabilizer 116 only fitting around a portion of drapery rod 26 this allows partial driver ring 38 to move back into engagement with guide structure 64 when the partial driver ring 38 is pulled downward by the weight of shade material 12 into engagement with guide structure 64.

In another arrangement of partial driver ring 38, the stabilizer 116 extends all the way around the entire exterior diameter 60 of drapery rod 26 and includes a slit or gap therein. This slit in the circular stabilizer 116 allows the stabilizer 116 to flex and open when forces increase thereby allowing the teeth 118 to come out of the guide structure 64 so as to allow the partial driver ring 38 to stop driving laterally when it engages a center bracket 28 or other stop. This arrangement of the circular stabilizer 116 with a slit therein allows the tooth 118 or teeth 118 to selectively move in or out of engagement with guide structure 64.

In contrast to these arrangements of partial driver ring 38, the stabilizer 116 of full driver ring 40 extends all the way around the entire exterior diameter of drapery rod 26, and does not include a slit, which prevents the teeth 118 of full driver ring 40 from selectively moving in or out of engagement with guide structure 64. In contrast, due to the dimensional tolerances of the drapery rod 26, the guide structure 64, the teeth 118 and the stabilizer 116 the full driver ring 40 is forced to laterally move when the drapery rod 26 is rotated.

Full Driver Ring:

Drapery rod system 10 includes at least one full driver ring 40. More specifically, center opening drapery rod systems 10 include a pair of full driver rings 40, where full driver rings 40 are positioned between a plurality of idler rings 36 at the outside and a partial driver ring 38 at the inside. One-way opening drapery rod systems 10 include one full driver ring 40 positioned between a plurality of idler rings 36 and a partial driver ring 38.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, full driver rings 40 are similar to partial driver rings 38 with one difference being stabilizer 116 does not terminate at ends or have a slit therein. Instead the stabilizer 116 extends around the exterior diameter 60 of the drapery rod 26 in a continuous manner. In the arrangement shown, as one example, like partial driver rings 38, full driver rings 40 includes a tooth 118 positioned at the upper center of the interior surface of stabilizer 116. Like the tooth 118 of partial driver ring 38, this upper tooth 118 of full driver ring 40 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is formed to engage guide structure 64 of drapery rod 26 so as to facilitate linear movement along the length of drapery rod 26 as shade material 12 pulls downward on full driver ring 40.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, a second tooth 118 is positioned on the interior surface at the bottom center of stabilizer 116. In this arrangement, the first tooth 118 and the second tooth 118 are arranged on opposite sides of stabilizer 116 from one another so as to match the spacing and placement of the features of guide structure 64. While two teeth 118 are shown in use, any number of teeth 118 are hereby contemplated for use and are configured to correspond in size, shape and placement to the features of guide structure 64.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the interior diameter of the interior surface of stabilizer 116 of full driver ring 40 is sized and shaped to fit around the exterior surface of drapery rod 26 with close and tight tolerances, while still allowing for smooth, easy and low friction sliding of full driver ring 40 along the length of drapery rod 26. As opposing teeth 118 extend inward from interior surface of stabilizer 116 the inner diameter of the inward end of teeth 118 are less than the exterior diameter of drapery rod 26. Said another way, the teeth 118 extend inward from the interior surface of stabilizer 116 a greater distance than the dimensional tolerances between the interior diameter of stabilizer 116 and the exterior surface 60 of drapery rod 26. As such, when full driver ring 40 is positioned around drapery rod 26, teeth 124 are engaged within guide structure 64. As the stabilizer 116 of full driver ring 40 fully extends around the exterior diameter of drapery rod 26 with close and tight tolerances, teeth 124 are prevented from skipping out of or coming disengaged from guide structure 64 as drapery rod is rotated. As such, when drapery rod 26 is rotated, full driver ring 40 moves laterally along the length of drapery rod 26. This is in contrast to partial driver ring 38 which, due to the stabilizer 116 only extending around a portion of the drapery rod 26, or extending all the way around it but includes a slit therein, which is allowed to jump out of or skip out of engagement with guide structure 64 so as to allow free rotation of drapery rod 26 while partial driver ring 38 remains stationary and/or disengaged.

During operation of drapery rod system 10, as drapery rod 26 is rotated, teeth 118 of full driver ring 40 are engaged with the grooves of guide structure 64 of drapery rod 26. Due to the weight of shade material 12 pulling down on full driver ring 40, this maintains the vertical orientation of full driver ring 40 and prevents full driver ring 40 from rotating as drapery rod 26 rotates. As the drapery rod 26 is rotated, the engagement between teeth 118 and guide structure 64, coupled with the downward force on full driver ring 40, causes full driver ring 40 to laterally move along the length of drapery rod 26. Due to the direct engagement of full driver ring 40 with drapery rod 26, the operational limits, the fully opened and fully closed positions, are programmed and controlled by motor control assembly 32. Motor control assembly 32 powers motor 80 to rotate drapery rod 26 until full driver ring 40 reaches its desired position along drapery rod 26 at which point power to the motor 80 is terminated.

As drapery rod 26 is rotated, full driver ring 40 causes movement of the idler rings 36 and partial driver ring 38.

In an opening operation, when starting at a fully closed position, partial driver ring 38 tends to be in engagement with or within close proximity of a bracket 28 with full driver ring 40 positioned in engagement with or in close proximity of partial driver ring 36 and idler rings 36 tend to be spaced out along the length of drapery rod 26 with the outward most ring positioned on the side of a bracket opposite partial driver ring 38. As drapery rod 26 is rotated, the engagement of full driver ring 40 with guide structure 64 has a tendency to move full driver ring 40 toward the open position along the length of drapery rod 26. As drapery rod 26 is rotated, full driver ring 40 has a tendency to push the idler rings 36 as full driver ring 40 moves toward the open position. In an opening operation, partial driver ring 36 when engaged with guide structure 64 may drive under its own power, however at other times partial driver ring 36 is pulled along the length of drapery rod 26 by full driver ring 40 toward the open position. The full driver ring 40 continues to move toward the open position until full driver ring 40 compacts the plurality of idler rings 36 between bracket 28 and full driver ring 40. This causes a compressed stack of shade material 12 at the opening end of drapery rod 26 when shade material 12 is in the fully opened position.

In a closing operation, when starting at a fully opened position, the plurality of idler rings 36 are positioned within close proximity within one another between the bracket 28 at the open position and full driver ring 40. As drapery rod 26 is rotated, the engagement of full driver ring 40 with guide structure 64 has a tendency to pull the trailing idler rings 36 as full driver ring 40 moves toward the closed position. In a closing operation, partial driver ring 36 when engaged with guide structure 64 may drive under its own power however when partial driver ring 38 is disengaged from guide structure 64 full driver ring 40 will push partial driver ring 36 toward the closed position.

This lateral movement continues until partial driver ring 38 engages non-movable object such as bracket 28 or stop, such as at the fully closed position, at which point partial driver ring 38 no longer moves laterally which causes the tooth to come of out of guide structure 64 as the drapery rod 26 continues to rotate. As the drapery rod 26 continues to rotate, while partial driver ring 38 is not engaged with guide structure 64, this allows full driver ring 40 to drive closer toward partial driver ring 38, thereby crushing the shade material at the fully closed position, thereby reducing light gaps. This is known as a “crush”.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the partial driver ring 38 is allowed to disengage the guide structure 64 by the stabilizer 116 only fitting partially around the drapery rod 26, or fitting all the way around the drapery rod 26 and including a slit that allows the stabilizer 116 to flex or open allowing the teeth 118 out of the guide structure 64. By stabilizer 116 only fitting around a portion of drapery rod 26, or fitting all the way around and having a slit, this allows partial driver 38 to selectively move out of engagement with guide structure 64 when the forces moving linearly are greater than the forces of moving vertically.

Similarly, by stabilizer 116 only fitting around a portion of drapery rod 26, or fitting all the way around the drapery rod 26 and including a slit that allows the stabilizer 116 to flex or open allowing the teeth 118 out of the guide structure 64, this allows partial driver ring 38 to move back into engagement with guide structure 64 when the partial driver ring 38 is pulled downward by the weight of shade material 12 into engagement with guide structure 64. Or, in the arrangement with the stabilizer 116 fitting all the way around the drapery rod 26 and including a slit that allows the stabilizer 116 to flex or open, the teeth 118 move back into the guide structure 64 under elastic compression or bias of the stabilizer which desires to move back to an un-stretched round shape.

In contrast to this arrangement of partial driver ring 38, the stabilizer 116 of full driver ring 40 extends around the entire exterior diameter of drapery rod 26, which prevents the teeth 118 of full driver ring 40 from selectively moving in or out of engagement with guide structure 64.

As the drapery rod 26 rotates, guides 116 of idler rings 36 and partial driver rings 38 help to smooth the operation of drapery rod system 10 as it moves between open and closed position by guiding these rings 35, by holding the exterior surface of drapery rod 26 with close and tight sliding tolerances. In addition, the material properties of stabilizer 116 helps to absorb vibration and noise and helps to smooth guidance of rings 35 over drapery rod 26. In addition, the operation of the full driver ring 40 that cannot escape engagement with guide structure 64 in concert with partial driver ring 38 that may escape engagement ring of guide structure 64 allows for crushing of the shade material 12 at fully closed position thereby reducing or eliminating light gaps.

Coupler Assembly:

Drapery rod system 10 includes a coupler assembly 42. Coupler assembly 42 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is generally configured to facilitate connection of opposing or adjacent drapery rods 26 while allowing them to either rotate independent of one another (uncoupled state) or to rotate in unison with one another (coupled state). In the arrangement shown, as one example, coupler assembly 42 includes a lug 44 with a hub 46, an axle 48 extending a length between a pair of opposing ends 50, a bearing assembly 52 connected to each side of the axle 48 and having at least one bearing 54, and an optional coupler 56 connected to each side of the axle 48, among other components and features.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, in its most basic form, coupler assembly 42 may be used to join two adjacent drapery rods 26 at a center-positioned bracket 28. In this arrangement, these adjacent drapery rods 26 may rotate independent of one another, which is known as an “uncoupled state” (when couplers 56 are not used in association with coupler assembly 42). In this arrangement, each drapery rod 26 requires a motor control assembly 32 (or a manual movement system, such as a pull cord, wand or the like) to facilitate independent rotation of each drapery rod 26. In this arrangement, rotation of one drapery rod 26 is not transferred to the other drapery rod 26 through coupler assembly 42. Instead, the coupler assembly 42, with the use of bearing assembly 52, facilitates free rotation of the inward end 58 of drapery rod 26. This arrangement provides the ability to independently control each drapery rod 26. This independent control however comes at the cost or risk that the drapery rods 26 may not rotate at the same time or speed. In addition, separate motor control assemblies 32 must be used, which may increase cost for the drapery rod system 10.

Alternatively, these adjacent drapery rods 26 may rotate in unison or simultaneously with one another, which is known as a “coupled state” (when couplers 56 are used in association with coupler assembly 42). In this arrangement, only one of the drapery rods 26 require a motor control assembly 32 (or a manual movement system, such as a pull cord, wand or the like) to facilitate rotation of both drapery rods 26. In this arrangement, rotation of one drapery rod 26 is transferred to the other drapery rod 26 through coupler assembly 42 and through the center-positioned bracket 28. This arrangement provides the ability to simultaneously control each drapery rod 26, which means that the shade material 12 connected to each drapery rod 26 starts to open at the same time and at the same speed. This also provides the benefit that the coupled configuration may reduce cost as only a single motor control assembly 32 is needed to control two or more drapery rods 26. This also provides the benefit of providing a drapery rod system 10 that extends a length far longer than a single drapery rod 26 while operating like a single drapery rod 26. This simultaneous control however comes at the cost that a user cannot independently set the position of the shade material 12 connected to each drapery rod 26.

In the arrangement shown, only two drapery rods 26 are connected together by coupler assembly 42 at a center-positioned bracket 28 with the outward ends 58 of the drapery rods 26 connected to outward-positioned brackets 28. However, it is hereby contemplated that any number of drapery rods 26 may be connected together using this arrangement. That is, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or ten or more drapery rods 26 may be connected together using brackets 28 and coupler assemblies 42. Each of these adjacent drapery rods 26 may be coupled or uncoupled by coupler assemblies 42 to the adjacent drapery rods 26. That is, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or ten or more adjacent drapery rods 26 could all be coupled to one another using coupler assemblies 42 such that they all rotate in unison with one another. Alternatively, any drapery rods 26 may be uncoupled to the adjacent drapery rods 26 such that they rotate independently of the adjacent drapery rods 26. Any combination of coupled or uncoupled drapery rods 26 may be used.

Lug:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, coupler assembly 42 includes a lug 44. Lug 44 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is generally configured to facilitate connection of coupler assembly 42 to bracket 28. In the arrangement shown, as one example, lug 44 has a generally square or rectangular shape when viewed from the side, however any other non-round shape is hereby contemplated for use. In the arrangement shown, as one example, lug 44 has a generally narrow width when viewed from the front side or back side, however any other shape is hereby contemplated for use.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, this generally square or rectangular shaped plate-like configuration is configured to be received within and held by a similarly sized and shaped opening in collar 74 of bracket 28. That is, in one arrangement, bracket 28 includes a collar 74 positioned at the outward end of support arm 72 that includes an opening or recess therein that lug 44 fits within with close and tight tolerances and in some cases frictional engagement.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, collar 74 is formed of an upper section 120 and a lower section 122 that connect together in a clam-shell like manner along a seam line around lug 44. When lug 44 is positioned within collar 74, the interaction between the square, rectangular or non-round lug 44 within the similarly shaped recess in collar 74 provides alignment as well as prevents lug 44 from moving or rotating within bracket 28. In addition, due to close and tight tolerances between the components, when lug 44 is placed within the opening between upper section 120 and lower section 122 of coupler 74, lug 44 is held in a tight and non-moveable manner.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, hub 46 extends through the approximate center of lug 44.

Hub:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, coupler assembly 42 includes a hub 46. Hub 46 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is generally configured to facilitate connection to lug 44 while providing a place for axle 48 to connect to and extend through lug 44. In the arrangement shown, as one example, hub 46 has a generally cylindrical shape that extends from end 124 to end 124 and includes a hollow interior 126. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the length of hub 46 is approximately centered on lug 44. That is, hub 46 extends an equal distance outward from lug 44.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, axle 48 is configured to extend through the hollow interior 126 of hub 46 while bearing assemblies 52 are configured to be positioned around the exterior surface of each side of hub 46.

Axle:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, coupler assembly 42 includes an axle 48. Axle 48 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is generally configured to facilitate the transmission of rotation through lug 44 and hub 46. In the arrangement shown, as one example, axle 48 has a generally cylindrical shape that extends from end 50 to end 50. A step 130 is positioned near the ends 50. The diameter of axle 48 outward from step 128 is substantially narrower than the portions of axle 48 inward from step 128.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the portion of axle outward from step 128 is generally cylindrical in shape, albeit substantially narrower than the other portions of axle 48. In addition, in the arrangement shown, as one example, the portions of axle 48 outward from step 128 has a flat section or other feature therein that disrupts the cylindrical shape of this portion of axle 48 that facilitates connection of coupler 56 to axle 48 while preventing rotation of the coupler 56 with respect to axle 48.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the length of axle is approximately centered on lug 44 and hub 46. That is, axle 48 extends an equal distance outward from lug 44 and hub 46.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, axle 48 is configured to extend through the hollow interior 126 of hub 46 with close and tight tolerances while facilitating rotation of axle 48 within hub 46. In one arrangement, bearings, such as roller bearings, may be used in association with hub 46 and axle 48.

Bearing Assemblies:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, coupler assembly 42 includes a pair of bearing assemblies 52. Bearing assemblies 52 are formed of any suitable size, shape and design and are generally configured to connect to the end 58 of drapery rod 26 while providing support while allowing rotation of the drapery rod 26. In the arrangement shown, as one example, bearing assemblies 52 have a generally cylindrical exterior surface 130 that is configured to fit within the hollow interior 62 of a drapery rod 26 at its end 58. The exterior surface 130 of bearing assembly 52 includes at least one feature 132 therein and terminates at a collar 134 that extends outward from exterior surface 130 a distance.

In the arrangement shown, as on example, the at least one feature 132 exterior surface 130 of bearing assemblies 52 are configured to receive and mesh with a corresponding feature 136 in the hollow interior 62 of drapery rod 26. This meshing engagement between the features 132 in the exterior surface 130 of bearing assemblies 52 with the features 136 in the interior surface of drapery rod 26 ensures that the exterior surface 130 of bearing assembly 52 rotates with the drapery rod 26.

In the arrangement show, as one example, the bearing assembly 52 is inserted within the hollow interior 62 of drapery rod 26 until the collar 134 engages the end 58 of drapery rod 26. Once collar 134 engages the end 58 of drapery rod 26 bearing assembly 52 is fully inserted within the hollow interior 62 of drapery rod 26.

In the arrangement show, as one example, bearing assemblies 52 include at least one bearing 54 that facilitate connection to hub 46 and lug 44 while allowing rotation of bearing assembly 52 (as well as any connected drapery rod 26) with respect to hub 46 and lug 44. In the arrangement shown, as one example, bearings 54 are what are known as roller bearings, however any other configuration of a bearing is hereby contemplated for use.

In one arrangement, bearing assemblies 52 have a hollow interior 138 that is configured to fit over the exterior surface of the ends 124 of hub 46. In this arrangement, one or more bearings 54 are positioned between hub 46 and bearing assembly 52 thereby facilitating rotation of bearing assembly 52 with respect to hub 46 and lug 44. That is, in this arrangement, the interior surface of the hollow interior 138 of bearing assemblies 52 include one or more bearings 54 therein, and the interior surface of the one or more bearings 54 engage the exterior surface of the hub 46. In this way the bearings 54 facilitate rotation of bearing assembly 52, and any attached drapery rod, with respect to hub 46 and lug 44.

In one arrangement, as one example, one bearing 54 is positioned at the inward end of hollow interior 138 and one bearing 54 is positioned at the outward end of hollow interior 138. The use of two, or more, bearings 54 to connect bearing assembly 52 to hub 46 provides increased stability over using only a single bearing 54. In one arrangement, bearings 54 are press-fit or friction fit over the exterior surface of hub 46, however they may be connected by any other manner, method or means such as screwing, bolting, adhering, welding, riveting, threading, or any other manner, method or means of connecting two components together.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, lug 44, hub 46, axle 48, bearing assemblies 52, bearings 54 and drapery rod 26 all share a center axis and axle 48, bearing assemblies 52, bearings 54 and drapery rods 26 rotate around this shared center axis.

In one arrangement, lug 44, hub 46, axle 48 and drapery rod 26 are formed of a metallic material, which provides great strength and wear resistance. However, one drawback of using a metallic material for these components is that metallic materials tend to transfer vibration as well as noise. As such, so as to reduce noise transmission as well as vibrations, between the metallic drapery rods 26 and between the drapery rods 26 and the metallic lug 44, hub 46 and axle 48, in one arrangement, bearing assembly 52 is formed of a compressible material that absorbs or dampens vibrations from metallic drapery rods 26, lug 44, hub 46 and axle 48. This compressible material may be any non-metallic material that is more compressible than and/or more shock or vibration absorbing than the metallic material of drapery rods 26, lug 44, hub 46 and/or axle 48 and may be formed of a plastic, composite, rubber, UHMW material, foam, synthetic rubber, urethane, or any other non-metallic material or the like.

When adjacent drapery rods 26 are intended to be in an uncoupled state, bearing assemblies 52 are connected to axle 48 and drapery rods 26 are connected to bearing assemblies 52, and couplers 56 are not used. In this arrangement, each drapery rod 26 is allowed to rotate independent of one another.

When adjacent drapery rods 26 are intended to be in a coupled state, couplers 56 are connected to axle 48 outward of bearing assemblies 52. In this arrangement, each drapery rod 26 rotates in unison with other coupled drapery rods 26.

Couplers:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, coupler assembly 42 includes a pair of optional couplers 56. Couplers 56 are formed of any suitable size, shape and design and are generally configured to connect to the end 58 of drapery rod 26, inward of bearing assembly 52, and facilitate transmission of rotation of one drapery rod 26, through the coupler assembly 42 into the adjacent, or coupled, drapery rod 26 such that the coupled drapery rods 26 rotate in unison. In the arrangement shown, as one example, couplers 56 have a generally cylindrical exterior surface 140 that is configured to fit within the hollow interior 62 of a drapery rod 26 at its end 58. The exterior surface 140 of coupler 56 includes at least one feature 142 therein.

In the arrangement shown, as on example, the at least one feature 142 exterior surface 140 of couplers 56 are configured to receive and mesh with a corresponding feature 136 in the hollow interior 62 of drapery rod 26. This meshing engagement between the features 142 in the exterior surface 140 of coupler 56 with the features 136 in the interior surface of drapery rod 26 ensures that the exterior surface 140 of bearing assembly 52 rotates with the drapery rod 26.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the coupler 56 is inserted within the hollow interior 62 of drapery rod 26 until the collar 134 of bearing assembly 52 engages the end 58 of drapery rod 26. In this way, coupler 56 is positioned just inward of bearing assembly 52 within the hollow interior 62 of drapery rod 26. Once collar 134 of bearing assembly 52 engages the end 58 of drapery rod 26 coupler 56 is fully inserted within the hollow interior 62 of drapery rod 26.

In one arrangement, couplers 56 have a hollow interior 144 that is configured to fit over the exterior surface of the ends 50 of axle 48. In this arrangement, hollow interior 144 is sized and shaped to fit over the ends 50 of axle 48 with a corresponding shape. That is, when the ends 50 of axle 48 is are round with a flat spot (otherwise known as D-shaped), the hollow interior 144 of coupler 56 is similarly round with a flat spot (otherwise known as D-shaped). This similarly shaped non-round configuration allows couplers 56 to be easily slid onto the ends 50 of axle 48 while preventing rotation of couplers 56 with respect to axle 48 once couplers 56 are installed.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, once the end 50 of axle 48 is inserted into the hollow interior 144 of coupler 56 a clip 146 is installed over the outward end 50 of axle 48 that extends past and through the hollow interior 144 of coupler 56. Clip 146 may be formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to connect to the end 50 of axle 48 and hold coupler 56 onto the axle 48. In the arrangement, clip 146 is a spring clip that slides over the end 50 of axle 48 and frictionally holds on to axle 48 thereby preventing coupler 56 from sliding off the end 50 of axle 48

In one arrangement, lug 44, hub 46, axle 48 and drapery rod 26 are formed of a metallic material, which provides great strength and wear resistance. However, one drawback of using a metallic material is that metallic materials tend to transfer vibration as well as noise. As such, so reduce noise transmission as well as vibrations, between the metallic drapery rods 26 and between the drapery rods 26 and the metallic lug 44, hub 46 and axle 48, in one arrangement, coupler 56 is formed of a compressible material that absorbs or dampens vibrations from metallic drapery rods 26, lug 44, hub 46 and axle 48. This compressible material may be any non-metallic material that is more compressible than and/or more shock or vibration absorbing than the metallic material of drapery rods 26, lug 44, hub 46 and/or axle 48 and may be formed of a plastic, composite, rubber, UHMW material, foam, synthetic rubber, urethane, or any other non-metallic material.

In the arrangement shown, as one example a plurality of openings 148 extend laterally, or from the inward end to the outward end of coupler 56, just below the exterior surface 140 of coupler 56 and/or between the exterior surface 140 and the hollow interior 144. These openings 148 provide additional give and flexibility to coupler 56 and help to dampen vibrations and reduce noise transmission between coupler 56 and axle 48 and drapery rod 26.

Half Coupler Assembly:

In coupled drapery rod systems 10, the free end of the coupled drapery rod 26 is connected to the outward-positioned bracket 28 using a half coupler assembly 150, which is essentially one side of an uncoupled coupler assembly 42. That is, half coupler assembly 150 couples the end of a drapery rod 26, opposite coupler assembly 42, to an outward positioned bracket 28 while allowing free rotation of the drapery rod 26. In one arrangement, half coupler assembly 42 includes a lug 44 and bearing assembly 52 similar, if not identical to, that described herein with respect to coupler assembly 42 and reference is made to those portions of the disclosure herein without repeating them.

In this arrangement, bearing assembly 52 is installed in the end 58 of drapery rod 26 opposite coupler assembly 42 until the collar 134 engages the end 58 of drapery rod 26. In this arrangement, the feature 132 of bearing assembly meshes with the feature 136 of the hollow interior 62 of drapery rod 26. Once installed, the lug 44 of half coupler assembly 150 is installed in the collar 74 of the outward positioned bracket 28 between the upper section 120 and the lower section 122. In this position, the outward end 58 of drapery rod 26 is held by bracket 28 while allowing free rotation of drapery rod 26.

In Operation:

When installing a drapery rod system 10 having two or more drapery rods 26, the user determines whether they want the drapery rods 26 to operate independent of one another, also known as an uncoupled state, or alternatively if they want the drapery rods 26 to operate in unison with one another, also known as a coupled state.

Uncoupled State:

When installing drapery rod system 10 in an uncoupled state, the user assembles the coupler assembly 42 without couplers 56 installed on the ends 50 of axle 48. That is, in one arrangement, the user installs the center positioned bracket 28 and the outer positioned brackets 28.

The user assembles the center coupler 42 by installing the axle 48 through the hub 46 and lug 44. Next, the user installs the bearing assemblies 52 and bearings 54 by sliding them over the ends 50 of axle 48. As this will be an uncoupled coupler assembly 42, no couplers 56 are used on the ends

The user inserts the bearing assembly 52 on each end of the coupler assembly 42 into the end 58 of each drapery rod 26 until the collar 134 engages the end 58 of the drapery rod 26. In this position, the feature 132 of bearing assembly 52 meshes with the feature 136 of the hollow interior 62 of drapery rod 26. In this way, the coupler assembly 42 connects the adjacent drapery rods 26 in an uncoupled state.

The user inserts a motor control assembly 32 in the outward ends 58 of drapery rods 26 in much the same way the coupler assembly 42 is installed. The user also installs the rings 35 over the drapery rod 26, with a partial driver ring 38 positioned adjacent each side of the coupler assembly 42 followed by a full driver ring 40 followed by the desired number of idler rings 36.

With the drapery rods 26, coupler assembly 42, motor control assemblies 32, and rings 35 installed, the user ensures that the upper section 120 of the center-positioned bracket 28 and the outward positioned brackets 28 are open. Next, the user places the lug 44 of coupler assembly 42 into the lower section 122 of the center positioned bracket 28 at the same time that the lug 44 of the motor control assembly 32 goes into the lower section 122 of the other outward positioned brackets 28. Once the lugs 44 are installed in the lower sections 122 of brackets 28 the upper sections 120 are closed on the upper sections 122 thereby trapping the lugs 44 within the collar 74 of brackets 28. Finials 30 and/or decorative elements 76 are installed.

In this position, the drapery rods 26 are free to rotate independent of one another. When it is desired to open or close or otherwise move the shade material 12 connected to each drapery rod 26 in unison, care is taken to initiate movement of each motor control assembly 26 at the same time and to operate them at approximately the same speed thereby giving the appearance that they are coupled together. However, when it is desired to open or close or otherwise move only one of the shade materials 12, only the motor control assembly 32 associated with that drapery rod 26 is operated. In this way, this arrangement allows for independent operation of two (or more) drapery rods 26, while also allowing for seemingly simultaneously operation of both drapery rods 26.

During operation, due to the non-metallic and partially flexible or absorbent or compressible bearing assemblies 52 positioned between the metallic axle 48, hub 46 and lug 48 and the drapery rods 26, the bearing assemblies 52 rotate around the hub 46 while absorbing vibration and thereby reducing noise.

Uncoupled State:

When installing drapery rod system 10 in a coupled state, the user assembles drapery rod assembly in much the same way described with respect to an uncoupled state with two main differences. First, the user installs couplers 56 on the ends 50 of axle 48 followed by clips 146 which hold the couplers 56 in place. Second, the user installs a half coupler assembly 150 in one outward end 58 of a drapery rod 26 while installing a motor control assembly 32 in the other outward end 58 of a drapery rod 26.

Once assembled in this manner, due to the connection of couplers 56 to the ends 50 of axle 48, as one drapery rod 26 rotates, so rotates the other drapery rod 26. As such, when the motor control assembly 32 operates, both drapery rods 26 rotate in lock-step with one another.

During operation, due to the non-metallic and partially flexible or absorbent or compressible bearing assemblies 52 and couplers positioned between the metallic axle 48, hub 46 and lug 48 and the drapery rods 26, the bearing assemblies 52 and couplers 56 rotate around the hub 46 while absorbing vibration and thereby reducing noise.

From the above discussion it will be appreciated that the drapery rod system 10 and related methods of use, presented herein improves upon the state of the art.

Specifically, the drapery rod system 10 and related methods of use presented: is easy to use; is simple in design; facilitates quiet operation; facilitates smooth operation; is relatively inexpensive or affordable; has a minimum number of parts; facilitates joining adjacent rotating drapery rods; facilitates joining adjacent rotating drapery rods while allowing them to rotate independently; facilitates joining adjacent rotating drapery rods while allowing them to rotate in unison with one another; facilitates joining adjacent rotating drapery rods while allowing them to either rotate independently with one another or rotate in unison with one another; can be used with any shade material; facilitates robust operation; helps ease installation; allows linking an endless number of drapery rods together; allows covering large banks of windows; helps reduce light gaps; can be manually operated as well as operated by; is aesthetically pleasing; has a unique design; can be easily converted from a system where adjacent drapery rods rotate independently to adjacent drapery rods rotating in unison, among countless other advantages and improvements.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other various modifications could be made to the device without parting from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. All such modifications and changes fall within the scope of the claims and are intended to be covered thereby.

Claims

1. A drapery rod window covering system, comprising:

a lug;

an axle;

the axle having a first side and a second side;

the axle operatively connected to the lug;

wherein the axle is configured to rotate with respect to the lug;

a first bearing housing operatively connected to the first side of the axle;

a second bearing housing operatively connected to the second side of the axle;

a first drapery rod operatively connected to the first bearing housing;

a second drapery rod operatively connected to the second bearing housing;

an optional first coupler and an optional second coupler;

wherein the first drapery rod is operatively connected to the first bearing housing adjacent the first side of the axle and the second drapery rod is operatively connected to the second bearing housing adjacent the second side of the axle;

wherein when the first coupler is operatively connected to the first side of the axle and the first drapery rod, and the second coupler is operatively connected to the second side of the axle and the second drapery rod, the first drapery rod and second drapery rod rotate in unison;

wherein when the first coupler and second coupler are not present on the axle the first drapery rod and the second drapery rod rotate independently of one another.

2. The system of claim 1 wherein the lug is connected to a bracket which supports the lug, the first drapery rod and the second drapery rod.

3. The system of claim 1 wherein the lug has a non-round exterior surface.

4. The system of claim 1 wherein the lug has a non-round exterior surface such that when the lug is connected to a bracket the bracket holds the lug in a non-rotational manner.

5. The system of claim 1 further comprising:

a hub;

wherein the hub is operatively connected to the lug;

wherein the axle extends through the hub.

6. The system of claim 1 wherein the first bearing housing has a bearing that facilitates rotation and the second bearing housing has a bearing that facilitates rotation.

7. The system of claim 1 wherein the first bearing housing includes at least one feature that connects with a feature on an interior surface of the first drapery rod, and the second bearing housing includes at least one feature that connects with a feature on an interior surface of the second drapery rod.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the first bearing housing and the second bearing housing are at least partially formed of a compressible material, wherein the compressible material absorbs vibrations thereby reducing operational noise.

9. The system of claim 1 wherein the first coupler includes at least one feature that connects with a feature on an interior surface of the first drapery rod, and the second coupler includes at least one feature that connects with a feature on an interior surface of the second drapery rod.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the first coupler and the second coupler are at least partially formed of a compressible material, wherein the compressible material absorbs vibrations thereby reducing operational noise.

11. The system of claim 1 further comprising:

a first shade operatively connected to the first drapery rod;

a second shade operatively connected to the second drapery rod;

wherein when the first drapery rod is rotated the first shade is opened or closed;

wherein when the second drapery rod is rotated the second shade is opened or closed.

12. A drapery rod window covering system, comprising:

a first drapery rod;

a second drapery rod;

a lug;

the lug having an axle;

the first drapery rod operatively connected the axle;

the second drapery rod operatively connected to the axle;

wherein when in a coupled state the first drapery rod and the second drapery rod rotate in unison;

wherein when in an uncoupled state the first drapery rod and the second drapery rod rotate independently of one another.

13. The system of claim 12 wherein when in a coupled state a first coupler is operatively connected to the axle and the first drapery rod, and a second coupler is operatively connected to the axle and the second drapery rod.

14. The system of claim 12 further comprising a first bearing housing operatively connected to the axle and the first drapery rod, and a second bearing housing operatively connected to the axle and the second drapery rod.

15. The system of claim 12 wherein the lug is connected to a bracket which supports the lug, the first drapery rod and the second drapery rod.

16. The system of claim 12 wherein the lug has a non-round exterior surface.

17. The system of claim 12 wherein the lug has a non-round exterior surface such that when the lug is connected to a bracket the bracket holds the lug in a non-rotational manner.

18. The system of claim 12 further comprising:

a hub;

wherein the hub is operatively connected to the lug;

wherein the axle extends through the hub.

19. The system of claim 12 further comprising a first bearing housing operatively connected to the first drapery rod, the first bearing housing having a bearing that facilitates rotation and a second bearing housing operatively connected to the second drapery rod, the second bearing housing having a bearing that facilitates rotation.

20. The system of claim 12 further comprising a first bearing housing operatively connected to the first drapery rod wherein the first bearing housing having at least one feature that connects with a feature on an interior surface of the first drapery rod, and a second bearing housing operatively connected to the second drapery rod, the second bearing housing having at least one feature that connects with a feature on an interior surface of the second drapery rod.

21. The system of claim 12 further comprising a first bearing housing operatively connected to the first drapery rod and a second bearing housing operatively connected to the second drapery rod, the first bearing housing and the second bearing housing being at least partially formed of a compressible material, wherein the compressible material absorbs vibrations thereby reducing operational noise.

22. The system of claim 12 further comprising:

a first shade operatively connected to the first drapery rod;

a second shade operatively connected to the second drapery rod;

wherein when the first drapery rod is rotated the first shade is opened or closed;

wherein when the second drapery rod is rotated the second shade is opened or closed.

23. A method of operating a drapery rod window covering system, the steps comprising:

providing a first drapery rod and a second drapery rod;

providing a lug, an axle operatively connected to the lug and a first bearing housing and a second bearing housing operatively connected to the axle;

installing the first drapery rod to the first bearing housing without a first coupler, and connecting the second drapery rod to the second bearing housing without a second coupler, and thereby facilitating independent rotation of the first drapery rod and the second drapery rod;

installing the first drapery rod to the first bearing housing with a first coupler, and connecting the second drapery rod to the second bearing housing with a second coupler, and thereby facilitating simultaneous rotation of the first drapery rod and the second drapery rod.