Plural Strip, Slat, Or Panel Type Patents (Class 160/107)
  • Publication number: 20130199737
    Abstract: A blinds-between-glass window assembly includes spacers with a thermal break. The assembly is modular in that the same components can be used to form window assemblies of varying thicknesses by replacement of the corner keys. A spring counter-balance mechanism is mounted within a side rail to provide a counter-balancing force against a magnetic follower. Guards are disclosed to reduce scratching or marring that can occur if the blind slats bump against the frame or glass.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2013
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: Medieval Glass Millennium Ltd.
    Inventor: Medieval Glass Millennium Ltd.
  • Patent number: 8499815
    Abstract: A louver turning mechanism and a hollow glass door or window with a built-in magnetically controllable louver, comprising a turn traction member, a turn transmission member and a slat turning member which are connected in turn, wherein the turn transmission member comprises a slat turning wheel and a joint interlocking mechanism which are used in cooperation, the joint interlocking mechanism is, at one end thereof, eccentrically fixedly connected to the slat turning wheel to drive it to rotate, and, at the other end thereof, connected to the turn traction member through a connecting push rod; the slat turning wheel is coaxially fixedly connected to a horizontal rotation shaft of the slat turning member is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Cmech (Guangzhou) Industrial Ltd.
    Inventor: Gongchun Zhang
  • Patent number: 8496039
    Abstract: A portable operational privacy pressed on glass-cover blind for doors with oval shape glass and windows that can be mounted to any door or window by means of releasable fasteners mounted on the back side of the privacy screen. The blind-slats can be oriented in either a horizontal or vertical position having the operating-rod perpendicularly mounted to the blind-slats. Additionally, the present invention provides for a privacy screen having a frame with a plurality of fabric slats extending longitudinally across the privacy screen frame without the need of tools, drilling, holes, nails, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Inventor: Vincenza Barresi
  • Patent number: 8413705
    Abstract: An adjustable flap, designed for the production of a covering device, includes a section (12) that is made of translucent material with length L1 and longitudinal axis A1 around which the flap (10) is articulated to rotate, and at least one slat (14) that is made of opaque material with length L2, L2 that is at most equal to L1, and longitudinal axis A2, A2 that is parallel to A1, around which the slat (14) is articulated to rotate relative to the flap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Inventor: Jean-Louis Castel
  • Publication number: 20130075048
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a window blind within a multi-pane window. A window blind disposed between first and second panes includes a plurality of slats. Raise/lower and tilt lines are coupled to the slats. A carriage housing is disposed between the panes proximate a side edge thereof. A tilt strip is disposed within the carriage housing and coupled to the tilt lines. An inner carriage disposed within the carriage housing includes an upper portion coupled to the raise/lower lines to actuate raising and lowering the slats, and a lower portion coupled to the tilt strip to actuate tilting the slats. An external carriage is adjacent the exterior surface and aligned with and magnetically coupled to the inner carriage. The external carriage is linearly movable to move the inner carriage. A method of adjusting a window blind within a multi-pane window is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Inventor: David Barry BERGER
  • Patent number: 8376019
    Abstract: A window assembly having a window frame and at least one primary sash mounted in the window frame. The primary sash has a plurality of sash members forming a primary sash perimeter and a first glazing panel mounted in the primary sash perimeter. At least one secondary sash is pivotally attached directly to the primary sash perimeter along an interior surface thereof so that the secondary sash is rotatably movable between a closed position and an open position relative to the primary sash. The secondary sash has a plurality of secondary sash members forming a secondary sash structure and a second glazing panel mounted in the secondary sash perimeter. An air chamber is located between the primary sash and the secondary sash that is substantially closed to the interior of the building structure. At least one accessory channel is locating along at least one side of the secondary sash members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Pella Corporation
    Inventors: Marlo G. Van Klompenburg, Kenneth E. Nossaman, Kraig A. Downs, Gabriel P. Gromotka, Bruce A. Hagemeyer, Gary E. Tagtow, Daniel W. Parrish, Scot C. Miller, Andy Breuer, Ranjith Rajendran, Bruce Sievers, Jeffrey Scott Belloma, Mearl J. Minter
  • Publication number: 20130025799
    Abstract: Inside a glass-enclosed chamber is a Venetian blind connected to internal elements for operating it, the elements being workable from outside to raise, lower and incline the slats. The raw slats of the blind are obtained by moulding a rolled strip of aluminium alloy hardened by magnesium. The strip has not been lapped in order to maintain a degree of roughness on both surfaces, ready to receive a reflecting layer. Reflective stratification includes a layer of pure aluminium adherent to the body of the slat that serves to fix a reflective type of interferential dielectric multilayer. Average thickness of the layer of sputtered aluminium depends on the diffusivity of reflected radiation required in relation to the maximum height of the peaks of surface roughness on the body of the slats. Useful multilayers increase reflectance to levels averaging over 85% on a wide interval of wavelengths from near infrared to ultraviolet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2010
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: PELLINI S.P.A.
    Inventors: Alessandro Pellini, Giovanni Nicolosi, Massimo Gentili
  • Patent number: 8325352
    Abstract: A method and a system for producing a window shade having a real natural material printed image coated thereon. A real natural material is scanned and the data of the image is stored in a computer which generates an image of the scanned real natural material. That image is duplicated a plurality of times by the use of the computer and the images are assembled in a predetermined arrangement to produce a composite image which is then enhanced using photo-enhancing software. The enhanced composite image is then printed by the use of a colored ink printing machine on material to form the window shade. Preferably, but not exclusively, the material is constituted by slats of a louvered blind or a fabric of a roller blind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Inventors: Carmine Franco, Sandro Franco
  • Publication number: 20120241104
    Abstract: An insulating glass unit. The insulating glass unit includes at least two substantially parallel, spaced sheets of glass. The at least two sheets of glass are sealed together at their peripheral edges to define an insulating chamber. A light redirecting device is positioned within the insulating chamber. The light redirecting device includes a base member including a front face and a back face, a plurality of slats extending from the front face, and a plurality of openings formed in and extending through the base member. The openings are positioned relative to the slats such that light received by the slats is reflected therefrom and through the openings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2011
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Inventors: Russell Huffer, Rory Balz, Steven B. Fronek, Jeff Kolbeck
  • Patent number: 8256489
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a window blind within a multi-pane window. A window blind disposed between first and second panes includes a plurality of slats. Raise/lower and tilt lines are coupled to the slats. A carriage housing is disposed between the panes proximate a side edge thereof. A tilt strip is disposed within the carriage housing and coupled to the tilt lines. An inner carriage disposed within the carriage housing includes an upper portion coupled to the raise/lower lines to actuate raising and lowering the slats, and a lower portion coupled to the tilt strip to actuate tilting the slats. An external carriage is adjacent the exterior surface and aligned with and magnetically coupled to the inner carriage. The external carriage is linearly movable to move the inner carriage. A method of adjusting a window blind within a multi-pane window is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Masonite Corporation
    Inventor: David Barry Berger
  • Publication number: 20120216964
    Abstract: This disclosure provides a new type of shading device for windows. The shading device comprises two sheets of glass, a blind with a plurality of slates, and an actuating device rotating them. The slates are painted with a low reflectivity coating on one side and a high reflectivity coating on the other side. The blind is installed inside the air tight chamber formed by two sheets of glass. In addition, a low emissivity film can be applied on the wall of the air tight chamber. The shade device employs a control system to adjust the angle of the blind slats in response to various input signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2012
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Inventor: Peng Xu
  • Patent number: 8230895
    Abstract: A sliding blind system (10) for covering a sliding first panel (12) located adjacent to a fixed second panel (14), the system comprising: at least one blind support bracket (11) mounted to an upper, generally horizontal edge of the first panel (12); a first blind (16) secured to the blind support bracket (11); a vertically extending first guide member (20) securable to a generally vertical first side edge of the first panel (12), and a second vertically extending guide member (22) securable to an opposing generally vertical second edge of the first panel (12), wherein the first blind is located generally between the first and second guide members; and a header panel (24) mountable to a fixed structure above the second panel (14); and a second blind (18) secured to the header panel (24), wherein the second blind (18) is mounted in front of the first blind (16) such that when the first panel (12) slides in front of the second panel (14), the first blind (16) slides behind the second blind (18).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Inventor: William Colin Leahy
  • Publication number: 20120118514
    Abstract: A device for fitting to a window or other glazing panel comprises first and second parallel rollers disposed at spaced apart positions on opposite sides of the device and an elongate substrate sheet extending between the rollers, the substrate sheet being provided at its upper end with a series of spatially separated optical elements arranged to reflect incident sunlight upwardly. The lower end of the substrate is free of elements and is preferably formed of a material which controls the amount of long wave infra-red radiation leaving the room in which the window is provided. The position of the ends of the substrate can be varied by turning the rollers to variably control the solar energy entering a building and to control the amount heat exiting the room. The device may also provide a sealed air gap across the window to act as a thermal barrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2010
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Inventor: Brian John Howard Hughes
  • Publication number: 20120090792
    Abstract: A plurality of flexible flaps are arranged in a row inward of a handicap entrance door of a bus. The flaps may be attached to the ceiling of the bus. The flaps may be similar to those seen in industrial freezer entrances. The entrance is permitted to remain effectively closed during the process of picking up or dropping off a handicapped student, except for the moment when the student passes through the flaps to enter the school bus, thus preventing uncomfortable temperature changes for other students in the bus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2011
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventor: Michael Robert Moorman
  • Publication number: 20120061031
    Abstract: A hollow built-in window blind is provided. The window blind includes an outer glass (13a), an inner glass (13b), a spacing strip (14), a curtain (12), and a fixing device for the curtain. The curtain (12) is installed in a closed space enclosed by the outer glass (13a), the inner glass (13b), and the spacing strip (14). Furthermore, the spacing strip (14) has a step part to be connected with the curtain (12), and the fixing device includes an upper beam (1) with a projection, left and right frames (10a, 10b) with a projection respectively. The upper beam (1), left and the right frames (10a, 10b) are connected to the spacing strip (14) by the projections set on the step part of the spacing strip (14).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Inventor: Xuezhong Zhang
  • Patent number: 8074698
    Abstract: A window blind frame system is provided comprising a window blind secured to a frame and optionally at least one frame-securing clip for releasably retaining the frame in position relative to the window casing. The frame may comprise at least two angle joints connecting at least three extruded portions to form a substantially rigid structure, wherein a window blind may be attached to the frame and wherein the frame is configured to interact with a frame-securing clip which releasably retains the frame in position relative to a window casing. The components of the window blind frame system may be provided in kit form. Methods of assembly and fitting of the window blind frame system are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Louver-Lite Limited
    Inventor: Reginald Charles Allsopp
  • Publication number: 20110100563
    Abstract: A sliding blind system (10) for covering a sliding first panel (12) located adjacent to a fixed second panel (14), the system comprising: at least one blind support bracket (11) mounted to an upper, generally horizontal edge of the first panel (12); a first blind (16) secured to the blind support bracket (11); a vertically extending first guide member (20) securable to a generally vertical first side edge of the first panel (12), and a second vertically extending guide member (22) securable to an opposing generally vertical second edge of the first panel (12), wherein the first blind is located generally between the first and second guide members; and a header panel (24) mountable to a fixed structure above the second panel (14); and a second blind (18) secured to the header panel (24), wherein the second blind (18) is mounted in front of the first blind (16) such that when the first panel (12) slides in front of the second panel (14), the first blind (16) slides behind the second blind (18).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2009
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventor: William Colin Leahy
  • Patent number: 7896056
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a manually operated internal Venetian blind for raising/lowering a plurality of slats is disclosed, and comprises a stationary bearing housing, a longitudinally displaceable bifurcated bearing block, a counterweight interconnected to the bearing block and housing at least one internal magnet, and a first linearly displaceable actuator disposed outwardly to one of two glass sheets and provided with at least one external magnet at a fixed distance from the internal magnet. The displacement of the first actuator is significantly less than the displacement of the longitudinally lowest slat due to the winding of central cords around a ball bearing housed within the bearing block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Inventor: Avigdor Ben-David
  • Publication number: 20110042017
    Abstract: The present invention discloses an electrical control mechanism for a built-in sunshade product for a hollow glass. The electrical control mechanism a handle disposed outside the hollow glass and a sliding block disposed within the hollow glass, the handle and the sliding block are provided with magnets therein and being attracted to each other via magnetic force of the magnets, a transmission mechanism disposed outside the hollow glass and coupled to a motor to drive said handle to move up and down; and a control device for controlling the motor and the transmission mechanism The control mechanism further includes a remote controller or/and a manual controller. The sunshade product according to the present invention can overcome the difficulty of operating a manually controlled built-in sunshade product for a hollow glass which is mounted at a high location. Meanwhile, the motor and the control circuit are disposed outside the hollow glass, so that the maintenance thereof becomes possible and convenient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2010
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Inventor: Renzhe JIN
  • Publication number: 20100243177
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a window blind within a multi-pane window. A window blind disposed between first and second panes includes a plurality of slats. Raise/lower and tilt lines are coupled to the slats. A carriage housing is disposed between the panes proximate a side edge thereof. A tilt strip is disposed within the carriage housing and coupled to the tilt lines. An inner carriage disposed within the carriage housing includes an upper portion coupled to the raise/lower lines to actuate raising and lowering the slats, and a lower portion coupled to the tilt strip to actuate tilting the slats. An external carriage is adjacent the exterior surface and aligned with and magnetically coupled to the inner carriage. The external carriage is linearly movable to move the inner carriage. A method of adjusting a window blind within a multi-pane window is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2010
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Inventor: David Barry BERGER
  • Patent number: 7681619
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an automatic window system consisting of a frame, two movable window casements, one on the outside and one on the inside of a building, and of a mechanism, which opens and closes the afore-mentioned window casements independently of each other. Glass panels having certain physical and optical properties may also be included, as well as a motor-driven blind and a rolled curtain, which together regulate the climate and temperature of the building. In one embodiment, the heat flow between the glass panels can be manipulated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Inventors: Filippo Ramin, Norbert Felderer
  • Patent number: 7669633
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a window blind within a multi-pane window. A window blind disposed between first and second panes includes a plurality of slats. Raise/lower and tilt lines are coupled to the slats. A carriage housing is disposed between the panes proximate a side edge thereof. A tilt strip is disposed within the carriage housing and coupled to the tilt lines. An inner carriage disposed within the carriage housing includes an upper portion coupled to the raise/lower lines to actuate raising and lowering the slats, and a lower portion coupled to the tilt strip to actuate tilting the slats. An external carriage is adjacent the exterior surface and aligned with and magnetically coupled to the inner carriage. The external carriage is linearly movable to move the inner carriage. A method of adjusting a window blind within a multi-pane window is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Masonite Corporation
    Inventor: David Barry Berger
  • Patent number: 7640964
    Abstract: Magnetic tilt and raise/lower mechanisms for a venetian blind disposed between the glass panes of a multi-pane window are disclosed. The magnetic mechanisms act on tilt lines and a raise/lower line coupled to the venetian blind. An inner follower carriage is magnetically coupled to an external carriage moveable over one of the glass panes. Movement of the external carriage imparts movement of the follower carriage, which in turn actuates the tilt or raise/lower lines, causing the venetian blind to move. The inner follower carriage and the external carriage include at least one magnet assembly mounted on at least one wheel set to facilitate movement of the carriages over the glass panes as well as to reduce the force required to raise or lower the venetian blind. A multiplier is employed to reduce the stroke length required to raise or lower the venetian blind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Masonite International Corporation
    Inventor: David Barry Berger
  • Patent number: 7543623
    Abstract: An insulated glass window assembly including a cordless integral shade with level correction, a sliding follower, and an air permeable spacer assembly. Cords are eliminated by confining the window covering movement to one dimension. Level correction is achieved by pivotally connecting the shade bar to the supporting operator or shade support, so that the bar can be re-leveled by raising or lowering the bar against the IG spacer. The follower slides in a track on one side of the IG. The spacer includes an air passageway between the desiccant chamber and the space between IG space, and the hole is covered by an air-permeable patch to prevent unwanted leakage of desiccant into the viewable area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: ODL, Incorporated
    Inventors: James D. Allardyce, Michael S. Eveland, Andrew R. Krochmal, Joshua R. Cornish
  • Publication number: 20090133341
    Abstract: An insulated window apparatus includes a body having a face surface and top, bottom, and opposed side surfaces coupled to the face surface. Each of the top, bottom, and opposed side surfaces are coupled to a portion of the face surface and to each other to define a chamber. An insulative member is provided. A lip is formed on at least one of the top, bottom, and opposed side surfaces and extends away from the chamber. A stud is adapted to be coupled to a window frame. A connector is adapted to couple to the stud and have securement means adapted to engage the body for retaining the body in abutment with the window. In one example, the securement means includes a resilient arm adapted to engage the lip. A method of assembling the insulated window apparatus to a window having a window frame is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2007
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Inventor: Nicholas G. Kontos
  • Patent number: 7475715
    Abstract: A follower for a window accessory within an insulated glass assembly. The follower includes a body having first and second sides adapted to face first and second spaced glazing panels. The follower further includes at least one magnet within each of the two sides, so that the follower will couple with a magnetic operator placed on either of the glazing panels. The follower yet further includes wheels having a diameter larger than the width of the body to rotatably support the follower against either of the glazing panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: ODL, Incorporated
    Inventors: James B. Gardner, Joshua R. Cornish, Benjamin P. Hummel
  • Publication number: 20080283200
    Abstract: An insulated glass (IG) internal blind assembly including a clutch for providing directional friction when raising and lowering the blind. The clutch is directionally activated, the gravitational pull of the blinds or lowering the blinds activates the clutch causing it to lock and add friction to the system. The clutch may be placed essentially anywhere along the cord path where the path changes direction. Various clutch and cord configurations may be used to achieve a desired amount of directional friction. The directional friction prevents the window covering from falling under its own weight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: ODL, INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Benjamin P. Hummel, Allen C. Ouzts, Joshua R. Cornish
  • Publication number: 20080179018
    Abstract: Magnetic tilt and raise/lower mechanisms for a venetian blind disposed between the glass panes of a multi-pane window are disclosed. The magnetic mechanisms act on tilt lines and a raise/lower line coupled to the venetian blind. An inner follower carriage is magnetically coupled to an external carriage moveable over one of the glass panes. Movement of the external carriage imparts movement of the follower carriage, which in turn actuates the tilt or raise/lower lines, causing the venetian blind to move. The inner follower carriage and the external carriage include at least one magnet assembly mounted on at least one wheel set to facilitate movement of the carriages over the glass panes as well as to reduce the force required to raise or lower the venetian blind. A multiplier is employed to reduce the stroke length required to raise or lower the venetian blind.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2008
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Inventor: David Barry Berger
  • Patent number: 7337824
    Abstract: Magnetic tilt and raise/lower mechanisms for a venetian blind disposed between the glass panes of a multi-pane window are disclosed. The magnetic mechanisms act on tilt lines and a raise/lower line coupled to the venetian blind. An inner follower carriage is magnetically coupled to an external carriage moveable over one of the glass panes. Movement of the external carriage imparts movement of the follower carriage, which in turn actuates the tilt or raise/lower lines, causing the venetian blind to move. The inner follower carriage and the external carriage include at least one magnet assembly mounted on at least one wheel set to facilitate movement of the carriages over the glass panes as well as to reduce the force required to raise or lower the venetian blind. A multiplier is employed to reduce the stroke length required to raise or lower the venetian blind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: Masonite International Corporation
    Inventor: David Barry Berger
  • Publication number: 20080035279
    Abstract: A follower for a window accessory within an insulated glass assembly. The follower includes a body having first and second sides adapted to face first and second spaced glazing panels. The follower further includes at least one magnet within each of the two sides, so that the follower will couple with a magnetic operator placed on either of the glazing panels. The follower yet further includes wheels having a diameter larger than the width of the body to rotatably support the follower against either of the glazing panels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Applicant: ODL, INCORPORATED
    Inventors: James B. Gardner, Joshua R. Cornish, Benjamin P. Hummel
  • Publication number: 20080029226
    Abstract: A window blind assembly includes an outer frame, a blind unit, and a control device. The outer frame includes a head rail defining a first receiving space, and two opposite vertical rails one of which defines a second receiving space in spatial communication with the first receiving space. The blind unit includes a plurality of slats and a slat ladder supporting the slats. The control device includes a lift cord connected to the slats, and a control member having an operating portion that extends outwardly from the second receiving space and that is operable to slide the control member relative to the outer frame so as to raise or lower the slats.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2006
    Publication date: February 7, 2008
    Inventor: Tai-Long Huang
  • Patent number: 7234501
    Abstract: An actuating mechanism (10) is taught that is used for externally operating a mini-blind (20) or a shade (20?) in a sealed double glazed window (22) which includes a window frame (24) with a side opening (26) and a roll box (28) in alignment with the side opening. A blind actuator (34) incorporates a rotatably sealed pulley shaft (38) that interfaces with the roll box on an interior end (40) and a belt pulley (66) on an exterior end (42). The actuator is sealed to the window frame with an O-ring (48) and rotation of the belt pulley causes the blinds to raise, lower and tilt. When the actuator is slideably removed from the window frame the mini-blind cord roll box may be extricated for replacement or repair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Inventor: Hubert H. Park
  • Patent number: 7201205
    Abstract: The interior window with integrated blind is a window adapted for use in a hospital setting to provide a patient with privacy in his or her hospital room while at the same time allowing a doctor or nurse to easily view the patient. The window includes: a substantially airtight encasement formed from two panes of glass that are secured to opposite sides of a spacer frame, a blind assembly encased within the airtight encasement, and a separate blind control extending from each of the two sides of the airtight encasement to allow for adjustment of the blind from either side of the wall in which the window is installed. The window is specifically dimensioned to fit in the glazing pocket of a window frame for a commercial building. An alternative embodiment, configured for areas of a hospital where control of the blind is appropriate from only one side of the window, includes only one blind control. This embodiment is identical to the first embodiment with the exception that one of the blind controls is missing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2007
    Inventors: Patrick L. Lyness, Rita Lyness
  • Patent number: 7191817
    Abstract: System for operating a blind in a glass-enclosed chamber the ends of said blind being respectively fitted to a fixed upper box (40) and to a movable box (60), subjected both to a guide device for translation, parallel to itself, when opening and closing said blind by a pair of cords (85, 86) interacting between the fixed (40) and movable (60) boxes and a lower fixed box (50), and also to a pulling device comprising a small box containing permanent magnets fixed to the movable box (60) and a free knob, containing permanent magnets of opposing pole, so that by matching, through a pane of glass, the magnets in said knob with those fixed to the movable box (60), the blind can be opened or closed as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: Pellini S.p.A.
    Inventor: Giovanni Nicolosi
  • Patent number: 7174941
    Abstract: An actuation system for use with an adjustable covering for a fenestration product. The actuation system coupled to an operator for controlling adjustment of extension and contraction of the covering. The actuation system including at least one lift mechanism configured to decouple the actuation system from the operator during a potentially damaging event, such as slack in a lift cord during extension of the covering. The lift mechanism later recoupling the actuation system and operator while maintaining rotational registration between multiple lift mechanisms of the actuation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Pella Corporation
    Inventors: Paul D. Schroder, Gabriel P. Gromotka
  • Patent number: 7128120
    Abstract: An assembly of sashes containing investitures, such as venetian blinds and/or mesh screens, for application adjacent the inside surfaces of sliding glass doors. In one embodiment, the sashes are suspended from inner and outer tracks of a rail in sliding overlapping relationship. The rail can be secured to the underside of a header disposed along the inside width of the sliding glass doors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Inventors: David Orbeck, Mark Orbeck
  • Patent number: 7124803
    Abstract: A venetian blind provided in double glazing unit, which is mounted in a space defined by two sheets of glass, side frames, a top frame and a bottom frame, the venetian blind comprising a blind body composed of a counterweight, a long axis and a plurality of leaves, a driving unit, and two magnets, one of which being fixed to said sliding block and the other one being located outside the double glazing unit. The venetian blind could be lifted and deflect by the linear movement or rotation of the two magnets, one of which is inside the double glazing unit and the other one is outside the double glazing unit in the case that the double glazing unit is completely sealed. The venetian blind of the present invention is simple in structure and convenient for operating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Inventors: Renzhe Jin, Chengzhe Jin
  • Patent number: 7086682
    Abstract: An embodiment of the invention concerns an obturating device for a vehicle, comprising two panels superposed and united to one another, defining an at least partially closed internal space, and movable occulting means which may extend in the said closed space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: Wagon SAS
    Inventor: Jean-Claude Neaux
  • Patent number: 7082982
    Abstract: A retrofit blind assembly for a doorlight. The assembly includes a frame, a transparent panel, and a blind snap-fitted to the frame. The blind actuator includes gears and a toothed belt for positive, non-slip actuation. A pair of blind guides are mounted on the opposite sides of the frame to receive and guide the opposite ends of the blind. The mounting system includes a pair of brackets that can be secured between the doorlight and the door and upon which the assembly can be hung. The mounting system also includes a pair of movable catches on the lower portion of the frame snap that can be locked behind the doorlight to secure the lower end of the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Assignee: ODL, Incorporated
    Inventors: Mike S. Eveland, Andrew R. Krochmal, Michele M. Dorcic-Lechenet
  • Patent number: 7021360
    Abstract: An actuation system for use with an adjustable covering for a fenestration product. The actuation system coupled to an operator for controlling adjustment of extension and contraction of the covering. The actuation system including a drive system configured to decouple the actuation system from the operator during a potentially damaging event, such as slack in a lift cord during extension of the covering. The drive system later recoupling the actuation system and operator while maintaining rotational registration between multiple components of the actuation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Pella Corporation
    Inventors: Paul D. Schroder, Gabriel P. Gromotka
  • Patent number: 7000670
    Abstract: A blind which includes: a rectangular frame; windows fit on the front and rear surfaces of the frame; a slat part embedded in between the windows mounted on the front and rear surfaces of the frame; an upper movable part and drum parts mounted on a back headrail half and a front headrail half of the upper portion of the frame to control the slat part; a side movable part inserted into a side guiderail of a side of the frame; and pull cords connected to the slat part, the drum parts, the side movable part, and corner keys for controlling opening and closing of the blind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Inventors: Young Sun Kwon, Oh Hoon Kwon
  • Patent number: 6932139
    Abstract: An insulated glass window assembly including an integral shade that can be raised and lowered at both its upper and lower edges. The assembly includes an insulated glass, a frame for mounting the insulated glass within a supporting structure, the shade within the glass, and operator bars outside the glass. The operator bars are magnetically coupled through the glass to the upper and lower edges of the shade. Accordingly, the upper and lower edges can both be raised and lowered independently to provide a wide variety of positioning options.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: ODL, Incorporated
    Inventors: Keith P. Early, Dean M. Dykstra
  • Patent number: 6929049
    Abstract: Structure (10) for a glass-enclosed chamber (9) formed of a frame (11) consisting of four channel-shaped pieces (15, 16, 17, 18), angular joins (20) and an angular connection (30) and comprising a blind (80) carried by a box (50) inside the glass-enclosed chamber (9) worked by a device with an electric motor, inside said box (50) and electrically connected to an electric socket (60) situated at one end of said box (50), said socket (60) being shaped so as to permit conjunction, due to matching of the top of the box (50) with the upper channel (18) of the frame (11), to an electric plug (38) with pins-terminals (40-42) for connection by electric wiring to a device for electric feed and control outside the glass-enclosed chamber (9), said plug (38) being placed in the angular connection (30) of the frame (15-18), situated at said end of the box (50).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: Pellini SRL
    Inventor: Giovanni Nicolosi
  • Patent number: 6837295
    Abstract: A magnetic transmission system for an adjustable curtain installed inside a double pane window. Under full insulation condition of the double pane window, by use of two magnetic pieces separated by the glass, the rotation of the magnetic pieces will drive a pull cord, which will then effectively control and adjust the status of the curtain which is installed inside the window. The invention provides large transmission power in a small space. In addition to the typical thermal and acoustic insulation functions, the invention adds additional function of easy and flexible light adjustment. The invention can be widely used in different applications, such as standard home doors and windows, movable windows and large-scale windows, door and glass walls, skylights, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Inventor: Zhongming Wang
  • Patent number: 6832641
    Abstract: An aircraft window having a generally rectangular frame with an inner lens. A first shade is movable with respect to the frame and capable of covering a portion of the inner lens. A second shade is also movable with respect to the frame and also capable of covering a portion of the inner lens. An intermediate lens or separation member lies between the first and second shades. Movement of the shades allows for independent and variable control over the light transmitted through the window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Inventors: Eduardo Sanz, Gilbert Moreno, Joe Martin
  • Publication number: 20040238131
    Abstract: A retrofit blind assembly for a doorlight. The assembly includes a frame, a transparent panel, and a blind snap-fitted to the frame. The blind actuator includes gears and a toothed belt for positive, non-slip actuation. A pair of blind guides are mounted on the opposite sides of the frame to receive and guide the opposite ends of the blind. The mounting system includes a pair of brackets that can be secured between the doorlight and the door and upon which the assembly can be hung. The mounting system also includes a pair of movable catches on the lower portion of the frame snap that can be locked behind the doorlight to secure the lower end of the assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2004
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventors: Mike S. Eveland, Andrew R. Krochmal, Michele M. Dorcic-Lechenet
  • Publication number: 20040226665
    Abstract: Magnetic tilt and raise/lower mechanisms for a venetian blind disposed between the glass panes of a multi-pane window are disclosed. The magnetic mechanisms act on tilt lines and a raise/lower line coupled to the venetian blind. An inner follower carriage is magnetically coupled to an external carriage moveable over one of the glass panes. Movement of the external carriage imparts movement of the follower carriage, which in turn actuates the tilt or raise/lower lines, causing the venetian blind to move. The inner follower carriage and the external carriage include at least one magnet assembly mounted on at least one wheel set to facilitate movement of the carriages over the glass panes as well as to reduce the force required to raise or lower the venetian blind. A multiplier is employed to reduce the stroke length required to raise or lower the venetian blind.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2004
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Applicant: Specialty Building Products Ltd.
    Inventor: David Barry Berger
  • Patent number: 6817401
    Abstract: A retrofit blind assembly for a doorlight. The assembly includes a frame, a transparent panel, and a blind snap-fitted to the frame. The blind actuator includes gears and a toothed belt for positive, non-slip actuation. A pair of blind guides are mounted on the opposite sides of the frame to receive and guide the opposite ends of the blind. The mounting system includes a pair of brackets that can be secured between the doorlight and the door and upon which the assembly can be hung. The mounting system also includes a pair of movable catches on the lower portion of the frame snap that can be locked behind the doorlight to secure the lower end of the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: ODL, Incorporated
    Inventors: Luann Y. Sun, Mike S. Eveland, Benjamin P. Hummel, Kapil K. Mehra, Andrew R. Krochmal, Michele M. Dorcic-Lechenet, Keith Patrick Early, Liang Xiao Chang
  • Publication number: 20040211528
    Abstract: A venetian blind provided in double glazing unit, which is mounted in a space defined by two sheets of glass, side frames, a top frame and a bottom frame, the venetian blind comprising a blind body composed of a counterweight, a long axis and a plurality of leaves, a driving unit, and two magnets, one of which being fixed to said sliding block and the other one being located outside the double glazing unit. The venetian blind could be lifted and deflect by the linear movement or rotation of the two magnets, one of which is inside the double glazing unit and the other one is outside the double glazing unit in the case that the double glazing unit is completely sealed. The venetian blind of the present invention is simple in structure and convenient for operating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2003
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventors: Renzhe Jin, Chengzhe Jin
  • Patent number: 6758255
    Abstract: A vehicle window having a curved inner lens, a rectangular frame with frame members and a shade. The shade is a dual shade having a first fabric member and a second fabric member with a removable shade rail between the first and second fabric member. There also is a movable shade rail at the end of the second shade material. Cables attach to each end of the removable shade rails and through to separate handles. Moving the first handle will move the first moveable shade rail and the first fabric member up and down and moving the second handle will move the second moveable shade rail and the second fabric up and down. The fabric members have different light transmissive characteristics, one being more opaque then the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Inventors: Eduardo Sanz, Gilbert Moreno