Honeycomb Type Patents (Class 160/84.05)
  • Patent number: 7500505
    Abstract: A roller stop for connection to the head rail of a covering for an architectural openings is releasably connectable to a rear edge of the head rail in overlying relationship with a roller having shade material thereon with the shade material having a bottom rail. The roller stop has a pivotally mounted body selectively positionable in closely adjacent but spaced relationship from the outer wrap of shade material on the roller and in a position to engage the bottom rail when the shade material is fully wrapped on said roller. A catch arm is selectively engageable with serrated teeth to releasable hold the pivotal body in a preselected desired position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen P. Smith, Brian M. Hoffmann
  • Publication number: 20090025888
    Abstract: A lift cord system for operating a retractable covering for architectural openings includes at least one cord loop which extends from a tassel through a fabric for the covering where it is slidably connected to the bottom rail for adjustment of the desired maximum spacing of the top rail and bottom rail and the orientation of the bottom rail relative to the top rail so the rails can be easily maintained in a parallel relationship. The cord loop is also anchored to the bottom rail at a separate location in a manner so as to fix the maximum separation between the top and bottom rails so the covering desirably fits the size of the architectural opening in which it is mounted. alternative embodiments include top down/bottom up coverings and coverings including a middle rail in addition to top and bottom rails.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2008
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Applicant: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Clark Brace, Donald J. Clark, Brian M. Hoffmann, Ronald Holt
  • Publication number: 20080264572
    Abstract: A cellular covering for a roll-up type shade assembly is described. According to one embodiment, the covering typically comprises a plurality of cells vertically disposed on a backing sheet. Each cell is configured to self-inflate when unrolled from a roller of the shade assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2008
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Applicant: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventor: Barbara Ann Forst Randle
  • Publication number: 20080179017
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a window shade or a window covering having a control mechanism for raising and lowering the window covering. The control mechanism is provided with a separator system. In particular, the present invention relates to a control mechanism with a separator system that provides a disengagement function to prevent or minimize damage to the control mechanism as a result of unintended force on the window shade or window covering. The separator system utilizes a body movable between a mated position where a clutch axle and a winding axle move synchronously, and an unmated position where the winding axle is allowed to rotate independent of the clutch axle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2008
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Inventors: Fu-Lai Yu, Chin-Tien Huang
  • Patent number: 7404428
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a foldable honeycomb structure and method for making the same. The method comprises (a) providing a plurality of flat strips; (b) forming a pair of longitudinal creases in each strip thereby defining the first two longitudinal margins of each strip and a central portion of each strip between the creases; (c) folding each strip along said creases so that each folded strip has two exposed outside surfaces; (d) applying at least three longitudinal glue lines to the exposed outside surface of each folded strip; and (e) stacking the glued strips. As a result, it need not open the longitudinal margins during the process of applying the longitudinal glue lines, which can avoid the deformation of the strip and have a precise gluing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignees: Metal Industries Research & Development Centre, King Koon Industrial Corp.
    Inventors: Yi-Wei Sun, Chin-Yuan Lu, Li-Ming Cheng, Kuei-Lin Tsai
  • Patent number: 7398815
    Abstract: A non-pull cord operated window blind structure comprises a head rail with a blind body attached to the underside and actuated by a collecting cord wherein a cord-winding control device actuated by an operating cord, and a fixed seat are respectively mounted at both ends of the head rail with a movable seat situated there-between. One end of the operating cord is attached to the movable seat, and both ends of the collecting cord are synchronically wound through the fixed seat and the movable seat and located at the fixed seat, permitting the operating cord and the collecting cord to associate with each other in linking operation. Therefore, a bottom rail is simply pushed or pulled by hands to loosen or tighten the collecting cord and actuate the operating cord therewith, permitting a state of counterbalance formed there-between for easy adjustment of the blind body into a desirable position thereby.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignee: Ching Feng Home Fashions Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wen Ying Liang
  • Publication number: 20080099157
    Abstract: A device for winding a suspension cord of a blind is provided to wind a suspension cord disposed on a blind. The suspension cord is spirally wound about a cord spool through a spiral guide groove of a guide component, and then arranged along the cord spool in sequence. Additionally, when the cord spool is connected to a power resilient element as a power source of rotation, friction force is applied to the cord spool through an adjusting component to adjust the output torque of the cord spool, such that the torque applied to the cord spool by the power resilient element can be balanced out with the torque applied to the cord spool by the gravity of the blind.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2006
    Publication date: May 1, 2008
    Applicant: Nien Made Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ming Nien, Yu-Che Wen, Chih-Yao Chang, David Pon, Judkins Ren
  • Patent number: 7360573
    Abstract: Cellular panels may be suspended from head rails through the use of a rigid strip of material positioned with the cellular panel. In order to securely position the rigid strip and cellular panel with respect to the head rail, a securement insert is provided. The securement insert includes a cap securable with the head rail by an interference fit and a slot member including a restricting member extending from the cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Assignee: Teh Yor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Fu-Lai Yu, Chin-Tien Huang
  • Publication number: 20080083508
    Abstract: A shade comprises a head rail that supports the lift cords for a shade panel. The shade panel includes a plurality of cells secured to one another. A bottom rail is secured to the lower edge of the panel and to which the lift cords are connected for raising and lowering the bottom of the shade panel. The upper edge of the panel is defined by a horizontally extending top cell that is substantially the same as the other cells that create the panel. A rigid bar insert is located within the top cell that extends for substantially the entire length of the top cell. The lift cords for raising and lowering the upper edge of the panel extend through the top cell and are connected to the bar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2006
    Publication date: April 10, 2008
    Inventor: Alejandro Martin Rossato
  • Publication number: 20080083509
    Abstract: A curtain assembly includes a head box having a chamber longitudinally defined therein. A first control set and a second control set are respectively received in two opposite sides of the head box. A distributor is disposed under the head box and connected to the first control set. The first control set is operated when the distributor is vertically moved. A telescopic shutter has a top portion connected to the distributor. The telescopic shutter is collected/stretched when the distributor is vertically moved. A lower bar is mounted to a lower portion of the telescopic shutter and connected to the second control set. The second control set is operated when the lower bar is vertically moved to collect/stretch the telescopic shutter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Publication date: April 10, 2008
    Inventors: Sheng Ying Hsu, Wu Chung Nien
  • Publication number: 20080073037
    Abstract: A window covering cutting and bonding apparatus includes a release sheet on an adhesive tape on an upper end and a bottom end of a window covering assembly. The release sheet is extended inwards from one side of a top end and a bottom end and bent and extended outwards to extend to outside the ends of an upper rail and a lower rail and form a preset pulling strip. Before a window covering is cut and trimmed, the release sheet can be moved in a skewed manner through the preset pulling strip. After the window covering assembly is cut and trimmed, the preset pulling strip can be pulled outwards to peel off the release sheet quickly at the same time. Therefore the adhesive tape can be exposed to bond to the upper rail and the lower rail of the window covering.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2006
    Publication date: March 27, 2008
    Inventor: Li-Ming Cheng
  • Patent number: 7311131
    Abstract: A rolling mechanism includes a base frame fastened to a top side of a window and having a coupling flange, a roller rotatably mounted below the base frame for stationary rotation and having a locating groove on its periphery, and at least one constraint member having a coupling portion pivotally coupled to the coupling flange of the base frame and a constraint portion extending from the coupling portion for engaging the locating groove of the roller and further limiting the rotary direction of the roller to one direction only.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: Nien Made Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ming Nien, Yuche Wen, Chih-Yao Chang
  • Patent number: 7303641
    Abstract: An apparatus for manufacturing cellular laminate structural panels includes one or more supply stations of a flexible strip material including folding rollers for sequentially folding the strip material into cellular structures and feeding the cellular structures into a conveyor where the cellular structures are held in compression. The apparatus further includes a laminating station where the folded cellular structures are laminated to an upper and/or lower sheet material to which lines of a bonding medium have been applied prior to engagement with the cellular structures. The folded cellular structures are heated before engaging the sheet material so as to enhance the bonding of the sheet material to the cellular structures and subsequent to bonding, the laminate is passed through a cooling station to set the bonding medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Paul G. Swiszcz, Ko Kuperus, Tim Jeske, Eugene Ballard, Stephen Cook
  • Publication number: 20070272364
    Abstract: A cordless window blind structure comprises a head rail having an accommodating channel into which a cord-winding control device with an operational cord attached thereto and a fixed seat are mounted at both end sides with a movable seat situated there-between. The operational cord is also fixed to one side of the movable seat. Multiple lift cords mounted to the corresponding positions of a blind body and a bottom rail are guided into the accommodating channel and divided to extend from either the upper or lower side of a guiding post of the fixed and movable seats respectively and wind onto multiple guiding elements, permitting the operational cord to link in movement to the lift cords wound onto the movable and fixed seats. Therefore, the bottom rail is simply pushed or pulled by hands to easily and accurately adjust the blind body into a desirable collected or expanded position thereby.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2006
    Publication date: November 29, 2007
    Inventor: Wen Ying Liang
  • Patent number: 7287570
    Abstract: A window covering, a lifting system for a window covering and a release mechanism for a lifting mechanism are disclosed. The window covering includes a head rail, a bottom rail, a window covering, a drive shaft and a lift cord attached to the bottom rail. The release mechanism includes a spring coupled to the drive shaft for preventing or allowing rotation. Methods of assembling and raising and lowering window coverings are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: Springs Window Fashions LP
    Inventor: Toralf H. Strand
  • Publication number: 20070187045
    Abstract: A nonretractable covering for architectural openings such as doors, windows, archways, or the like includes a covering fabric like material having pivotal vanes with the fabric like material being extended between upper and lower tilt bars with one of the upper lower tilt bars being an active tilt bar and the other a passive tilt bar which moves in response to the active tilt bar. Movement of the active tilt bar between opened and closed positions pivots the vanes between opened and closed positions while the fabric material remains extended across the architectural opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2007
    Publication date: August 16, 2007
    Applicant: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventor: Terrence M. Drew
  • Patent number: 7240715
    Abstract: An indexed limit stop for mounting on the headrail of a covering for architectural openings is easily connected to the headrail in overlying relationship with shade material wrapped on a roller in the headrail and has two elements that are pivotally interconnected and movable between selected fixed positions. The second element includes an abutment stop for engagement with the bottom rail of the shade material when the covering is fully retracted and can be positioned such that the abutment stop is spaced from the outer wrap of shade material to avoid damage to the shade material while being desirably positioned for intercepting movement of the bottom rail to limit retracting movement of the roller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventor: Brian M. Hoffmann
  • Patent number: 7191816
    Abstract: A retractable cover for architectural openings having collapsible vanes includes a support structure in the form of a sheet of material, monofilaments, tapes, ribbons, cords, or the like, supporting an upper edge of a plurality of vertically spaced, horizontally extending vanes with the lower edges of the vanes in most embodiments of the invention being connected to operating elements adapted to raise the lower edges of each vane toward the upper edges to define openings or gaps between the vanes through which vision and light can pass in an open condition of the covering. Variations of the covering do not require movement of a lower edge of a vane relative to an upper edge but simply movement of some vanes relative to other vanes. The vanes can be made of materials having different flexibilities and where more rigid materials are used, creased fold lines can be established for desired operability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Wendell B. Colson, Marjorie G. Harper, Daniel M. Fogarty, David P. Hartman, Ralph G. Jelic, Kristi K. Kopecky
  • Patent number: 7192633
    Abstract: A covering for an architectural opening, having a first layer with alternating relatively opaque stripes and relatively translucent stripes, and a second layer with alternating relatively opaque stripes and relatively translucent stripes. The first and second layers are positioned one behind the other, with the stripes substantially parallel. The first and second layers are movable relative to one another in a direction substantially perpendicular to the stripes. The covering also includes a series of parallel binder threads for attaching the first layer to the second layer. The binder threads run substantially perpendicular to the stripes, and thereby, one of the layers can be slid along the binder threads when moved relative to the other. The blind is preferred to be woven as a double-layer fabric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Industries BV
    Inventor: Anton Petrus Theodorus Hubertus Fransen
  • Patent number: 7182120
    Abstract: A tabbed honeycomb structure or pleated panel is made from a stack of collapsed multi-cellular material. The stack is split at bond lines thereby forming the panels of pleated or honeycomb material having a joint tab on one face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Inventor: Ren Judkins
  • Patent number: 7159634
    Abstract: A tabbed honeycomb structure or pleated panel is made from a stack of collapsed multi-cellular material. The stack is split at bond lines thereby forming the panels of pleated or honeycomb material having a joint tab on one face. The tabbed, honeycomb material is attached between a headrail and a bottomrail to form a window covering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Inventor: Ren Judkins
  • Patent number: 7159635
    Abstract: A spool forming part of a lift cord drum for a covering for an architectural opening has a generally cylindrical body about which the lift cord is adapted to be wrapped and a frustoconical end encouraging the wrapped cord to shift in a predetermined direction. A longitudinal slot in the cylindrical body retains one end of the lift cord and allows the end of the lift cord to slide along the slot as wrapped cord is increased or decreased so as to minimize the possibility of the cord becoming entangled in itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald Holt, Stephen T. Wisecup
  • Patent number: 7147029
    Abstract: An improved retractable covering for an architectural opening includes an improved mounting bracket, an improved limit stop to prevent over-retraction and over-extension of the retractable covering, an improved battery pack mounting bracket for attaching a power supply to a head rail of the retractable covering, an improved battery pack mounting apparatus for attaching a battery pack to a head rail, an improved control system for the retractable covering, and an improved method of using a wireless remote control or a manually operated switch to activate a motor to control the configuration of the covering, including the extension or retraction of the covering, and the transmissivity of the covering. The disclosed improvements are field retrofittable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph E. Kovach, Michael S. Holford
  • Patent number: 7131479
    Abstract: A covering material for a window covering assembly is provided that includes a plurality of formations, wherein an indicator marking is placed on the covering assembly at a known increment of the formations. The method of making the covering material includes, providing a web of material, printing a plurality of stripes on the web, and folding the web to create a window covering material having a plurality of formations. In one embodiment, the stripes are positioned such that a first face of the window covering material exhibits a color different than the remainder of the window covering material once folded. A longer stripe extends away from the first face to create the indicator marking. In another embodiment, the markings are made with a selectively observable material so that the covering material must be placed in a particular light to be viewed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: Comfortex Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas J. Marusak, Jennifer M. Vanpoortfliet
  • Patent number: 7128126
    Abstract: The present invention provides for retractable coverings for architectural openings utilizing a control system having a single operating element allowing a user to move a retractable covering between extended and retracted positions by imparting a repetitive motion to the operating element. The control system may include an input assembly, a transmission, and an output assembly cooperatively engaging to convert linear movement of the operating element into rotational movement of a head roller in the required direction to provide movement of the covering in the desired direction and distance. The input assembly may convert linear movement of the operating element into rotational movement imparted to the transmission. The input assembly may also engage the transmission to effect the direction of rotational output from the transmission. The transmission imparts rotational movement to the output assembly, which interfaces with the head roller to rotate the head roller and to provide a braking feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen P. Smith, Wendell B. Colson, James L. Miller
  • Patent number: 7111659
    Abstract: A retractable cover for architectural openings having collapsible vanes includes a support structure in the form of a sheet of material, monofilaments, tapes, ribbons, cords, or the like, supporting an upper edge of a plurality of vertically spaced, horizontally extending vanes with the lower edges of the vanes in most embodiments of the invention being connected to operating elements adapted to raise the lower edges of each vane toward the upper edges to define openings or gaps between the vanes through which vision and light can pass in an open condition of the covering. Variations of the covering do not require movement of a lower edge of a vane relative to an upper edge but simply movement of some vanes relative to other vanes. The vanes can be made of materials having different flexibilities and where more rigid materials are used, creased fold lines can be established for desired operability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Marjorie G. Harper, Todd R. Steele, Paul A. Pedri, Stephen T. Wisecup
  • Patent number: 7074475
    Abstract: A cellular structure such as a honeycomb window treatment comprises a plurality of rows of elongated cells secured to one another. Each of the rows is constructed by providing a first longitudinally extending length of material, which includes a first surface and a second surface, as well as, a lesser width portion and a greater width portion. A second length of material is also provided that includes a first surface and a second surface. The second surface of the second material is secured to the first surface over the greater width portion of the first material along a plurality longitudinally extending locations on the second surface of the second material to form a row. A longitudinally extending crease is also formed in the first material such that the lesser width portion and the greater width portion of the first material lie on opposite sides of the crease.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: Teh Yor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Fu-Lai Yu
  • Patent number: 7059378
    Abstract: A fabric light control window covering in which fabric vanes are adhesively bonded between two sheer fabric sheets such that relative movement between the sheer fabric sheets in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the fabric vanes changes the angle of the fabric vanes and, thus, controls the amount of light admitted through the shade. The vanes are bonded to the sheer fabric sheets in a manner which tends to bias the sheer fabric sheets together to the nonlight admitting position. Also, disclosed are methods and apparatus for manufacturing the above window covering. The method features linear application of adhesive to the vane material which provides for a uniform appearance in the finished product. A heat setting process and apparatus is disclosed in which the bonded layers of sheer fabrics and vanes are fed between belts over hot and cool surfaces, under uniform tension and pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Wendell B. Colson, Paul G. Swiszcz
  • Patent number: 7051489
    Abstract: A panel for use in a drop ceiling system, or with appropriate modification, a wall, wherein the ceiling system includes stringers and cross-members defining areas therebetween for support of the panels wherein the panels include at least one planar sheet of material secured to a reinforcement member having channels formed therein to extend in at least one direction relative to the sheet material. When more than one sheet of material is used, the sheets of material are disposed on opposite sides of the reinforcement member. The panels are flexible for easy insertion into the openings between the stringers and cross-members of the support system and are readily compressed into a thinner profile for shipping purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Paul G. Swiszcz, Ko Kuperus
  • Patent number: 6988526
    Abstract: A roman shade with liner has a headrail, a bottom bar spaced apart from and parallel to the headrail and both a face material and a liner extending from the headrail and attached to the bottom bar. A plurality of lift cords are attached to the bottom bar, pass through the gap between the liner and the face material and extend into the headrail. Each lift cord engages a set of tabs, rings or other one cord connectors attached to the inside surface of the face material. Preferably, each lift cord also engages cord connectors on the inside surface of the liner. The face material and the liner are each a material that will form loops that extend below the bottom bar as the bottom bar is raised. The face material and liner are sized and configured so that no loop of face material will extend beyond at least one loop of liner material. Consequently, the liner will block sunlight from the face material when the shade is fully raised or partially raised.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Inventor: Ren Judkins
  • Patent number: 6989066
    Abstract: A cellular structure such as a honeycomb window treatment and method for making the cellular structure is provided by securing a plurality of rows of elongated cells to one another. Each of the plurality of rows is constructed by providing a first longitudinally extending length of material. This first material includes a first surface and a second surface. The first material further includes a lesser width portion and a greater width portion. A second longitudinally extending length of material is also provided. The second material also includes a first surface and a second surface of the first material. The second surface of the second material is secured to the first surface over the greater width portion of the first material along a plurality longitudinally extending locations, preferably defined by glue or adhesive lines, on the second surface of the second material to form a row.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: Teh Yor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Fu-Lai Yu
  • Patent number: 6981539
    Abstract: A window treatment support, such as a support for a cellular shade and other kinds of shades, includes a head rail, a clutch mounted on the head rail to support and operate a window treatment; and a cord engaging the clutch for selectively raising and lowering the window treatment. The clutch includes a pulley having a plurality of radial teeth defining a space sized to receive the cord. At least some of the teeth including a flexible projection forming an interference fit with the cord. The head rail is a bottom wall shaped to maximize the size of the clutch without substantially affecting the size of the head rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Assignee: Rollease, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard Fraczek
  • Patent number: 6957680
    Abstract: A framed covering for an architectural opening includes a collapsible shade that is moveable between open and closed positions relative to the architectural opening with the collapsible shade being mounted within an enclosed framework that is adapted to be secured to a structural member having the architectural opening therein. In one embodiment of a flexible control cord system moves the shade between open and closed positions, with the control cord system being conveniently positioned adjacent the frame for easy manipulation. In a second embodiment a finger slide on the frame drives a cord lift system for moving the covering between open and closed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Richard N. Anderson, Terrence M. Drew
  • Patent number: 6941995
    Abstract: A lace-like structure of a hive-shaped Venetian blind comprises a blind body made up of a plurality of wave-like arc slats paired up into oval-shaped blind units in cross section. Each wave-like arc slat has a pair of extended flanges disposed at the front and rear sides thereof. Rollers with lace-producing convex edges disposed thereon are adapted to clamp tight the extended flanges thereof and synchronically seal up the pair-up wave-like arc slats via ultrasonic welding art with lace-like patterns cut at the extended flanges thereon via the lace-producing convex edges thereof. Thus, via the lace-producing rollers, the blind body thereof are automatically and synchronically assembled in ready and speedy manner to provide a Venetian blind with lace-like patterns disposed at the front and rear sides thereof in beautiful display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Ching Feng Blinds Ind. Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Pey-Son Hsu
  • Patent number: 6938664
    Abstract: A folding blind structure has an upper and a lower beams with a pair of overlapping inner and outer blind layers attached there-between wherein the inner blind layer has consecutive large transverse V-shaped folding sections with long adhering sections disposed at the middle thereof, while the outer blind layer has small transverse V-shaped folding sections with short adhering sections disposed at the inner edge thereof. Via rollers clamping tight the long and short adhering sections synchronically for fastening thereof, the inner and outer blind layers are automatically assembled with large hollow arc patterns formed at the front section of the combined inner and outer blind layers, and small hollow arc patterns disposed at the rear side of the large transverse V-shaped folding sections thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Ching Feng Blinds Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Pey-Son Hsu
  • Patent number: 6932138
    Abstract: A window covering having a plurality of panels comprising a head rail and a plurality of panels suspended from the head rail by a securement member and an opening member is provided. Each of the plurality of panels is collapsible and includes a pair of opposed longitudinal regions. A bottom rail may also be provided and suspended from the head rail such that the plurality of panels are located between the head rail and the bottom rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: Teh Yor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Fu-Lai Yu, Chin-Tien Huang, Shun-Chi Yu
  • Patent number: 6904948
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for fabricating a cellular roller shade material for use in roller shade coverings for architectural openings is described. In a preferred embodiment, two fabric tapes are joined proximate an edge of each to form a wide fabric tape. The wide fabric tape is then pulled through a folding horn to fold the tape along a longitudinal axis that is laterally offset from the tape's longitudinal axis. Two longitudinal adhesive beads are applied to the folded tape by an adhesive applicator. The folded tape is then continuously wound onto tubular surface with the surfaces of the folded tape containing the adhesive beads being placed in an overlapping relationship with a portion of a previously wrapped section of the folded tape. The wrapped and joined tubular tape is cut to form a sheet of shade material that comprises plurality of horizontally-extending cells when utilized in a roller shade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond Auger, Gary Ashurst, Cliff Birch
  • Patent number: 6854501
    Abstract: A multicellular window covering is formed from a starting product in the form of a double-cell type of multicellular honeycomb structure. The individual cells of the starting product are defined by external pleated sides on the opposite faces of the structure and internal ligaments interconnecting the opposite faces at spaced intervals. Selected internal ligaments are severed, while leaving others of the internal ligaments intact, thereby eliminating a plurality of the original cells in various alternative patterns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: Comfortex Corporation
    Inventor: John A. Corey
  • Publication number: 20040261954
    Abstract: A spool forming part of a lift cord drum for a covering for an architectural opening has a generally cylindrical body about which the lift cord is adapted to be wrapped and a frustoconical end encouraging the wrapped cord to shift in a predetermined direction. A longitudinal slot in the cylindrical body retains one end of the lift cord and allows the end of the lift cord to slide along the slot as wrapped cord is increased or decreased so as to minimize the possibility of the cord becoming entangled in itself.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Applicant: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald Holt, Stephen T. Wisecup
  • Publication number: 20040238130
    Abstract: A lace-like structure of a hive-shaped Venetian blind comprises a blind body made up of a plurality of wave-like arc slats paired up into oval-shaped blind units in cross section. Each wave-like arc slat has a pair of extended flanges disposed at the front and rear sides thereof Rollers with lace-producing convex edges disposed thereon are adapted to clamp tight the extended flanges thereof and synchronically seal up the pair-up wave-like arc slats via ultrasonic welding art with lace-like patterns cut at the extended flanges thereon via the lace-producing convex edges thereof. Thus, via the lace-producing rollers, the blind body thereof are automatically and synchronically assembled in ready and speedy manner to provide a Venetian blind with lace-like patterns disposed at the front and rear sides thereof in beautiful display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2003
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Applicant: CHING FENG BLINDS IND. CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Pey-Son Hsu
  • Patent number: 6823923
    Abstract: A light-control window covering includes a first sheet of sheer material and a second sheet of sheer material spaced apart from the first sheer sheet of material. A plurality of vanes having a first face and a second face, a center region and a first and a second longitudinal margin. The vanes include perforations proximate the first and second longitudinal margins. A plurality of thermoplastic ribbons are welded to the first and second sheets of sheer material and the vanes to provide a stronger weld between the sheer materials and the vanes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Roger C. Palmer, Warren Stephenson
  • Publication number: 20040226663
    Abstract: The present invention provides for retractable coverings for architectural openings utilizing a control system having a single operating element allowing a user to move a retractable covering between extended and retracted positions by imparting a repetitive motion to the operating element. The control system may include an input assembly, a transmission, and an output assembly cooperatively engaging to convert linear movement of the operating element into rotational movement of a head roller in the required direction to provide movement of the covering in the desired direction and distance. The input assembly may convert linear movement of the operating element into rotational movement imparted to the transmission. The input assembly may also engage the transmission to effect the direction of rotational output from the transmission. The transmission imparts rotational movement to the output assembly, which interfaces with the head roller to rotate the head roller and to provide a braking feature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2004
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Applicant: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen P. Smith, Wendell B. Colson, James L. Miller
  • Patent number: 6817400
    Abstract: A cell and method of manufacturing a cell for a multi-cell window covering is disclosed. The method includes the steps of providing a flexible material, stiffening a portion of the flexible material, and creating at least one control engagement formation and at least one control clearance formation in axially extending sections of the stiffened flexible material that will become an upper portion and a lower portion of the cell. The method is further defined by folding the flexible material to create a closed element and securing the flexible material to itself to maintain the shape of the closed element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: Comfortex Corporation
    Inventors: John A. Corey, Richard D. Watkins
  • Publication number: 20040221966
    Abstract: A framed covering for an architectural opening includes a collapsible shade that is moveable between open and closed positions relative to the architectural opening with the collapsible shade being mounted within an enclosed framework that is adapted to be secured to a structural member having the architectural opening therein. In one embodiment of a flexible control cord system moves the shade between open and closed positions, with the control cord system being conveniently positioned adjacent the frame for easy manipulation. In a second embodiment a finger slide on the frame drives a cord lift system for moving the covering between open and closed positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2004
    Publication date: November 11, 2004
    Applicant: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Richard N. Anderson, Terrence M. Drew
  • Publication number: 20040182522
    Abstract: A window blind assembly includes a headrail having a longitudinal axis extending between first and second ends thereof, a first tube rotatably mounted between the first and second ends of the headrail and a second tube rotatably mounted between the first tube and the second end of the headrail. The assembly also has a bottom rail suspended below the headrail, an intermediate rail suspended below the headrail and positioned between the headrail and the bottom rail, and a window covering material extending between the intermediate rail and the headrail, the window covering material having an upper end attached to the intermediate rail and a lower end attached to the bottom rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2003
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Applicant: Springs Window Fashions LP
    Inventors: Toralf H. Strand, Jeff Walker, James A. Raisbeck, Christopher J. Malin
  • Patent number: 6786268
    Abstract: An actuator device is provided for use in a view-through window covering having a plurality of cells. The actuator device includes at least one cooperating pair of control members including a first control member that engages an upper portion of each cell and a second control member that engages a lower portion of each cell. The cooperating pair of control members are engaged with the cells along a plane parallel to the plane of the window covering, whereby relative movement of the control members modifies the size of the space between the cells. The actuator device may also include an actuator mechanism selectively operable to create opposite movement of the first and second control members. A guide member may also be provided to transition the first and second control members from being aligned substantially perpendicular to the window covering plane to being aligned substantially parallel with the window covering plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: Comfortex Corporation
    Inventors: John A. Corey, Raymond Randall, Richard D. Watkins
  • Patent number: 6782937
    Abstract: A framed covering for an architectural opening includes a collapsible shade that is moveable between open and closed positions relative to the architectural opening with the collapsible shade being mounted within an enclosed framework that is adapted to be secured to a structural member having the architectural opening therein. In one embodiment of a flexible control cord system moves the shade between open and closed positions, with the control cord system being conveniently positioned adjacent the frame for easy manipulation. In a second embodiment a finger slide on the frame drives a cord lift system for moving the covering between open and closed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Richard N. Anderson, Terrence M. Drew
  • Publication number: 20040154755
    Abstract: A light controllable window covering has a transparent front face and a transparent back face, either or both of which are formed from a series of spaced apart parallel threads, and a series of opaque slats attached between the two faces. The parallel threads which form the front face and back face are spaced apart an amount which allows light to readily pass while providing a soft fabric like appearance. The slats are preferably knitted or woven fabric treated to have a given light impeding property. The front and back longitudinal edges of each slat are respectively attached to the front face and the back face. The resulting structure when combined with a hardware system is a light control honeycomb window covering. Movement of the light impeding slats from a position perpendicular to the front face and back face to a position generally parallel to the front and back face controls the amount of light which is admitted through the window covering.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2003
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Inventor: Ren Judkins
  • Patent number: 6772815
    Abstract: A light controllable window covering has a transparent front face and a transparent back face, either or both of which are formed from a series of spaced apart parallel threads, and a series of opaque slats attached between the two faces. The parallel threads which form the front face and back face are spaced apart an amount which allows light to readily pass while providing a soft fabric like appearance. The slats are preferably knitted or woven fabric treated to have a given light impeding property. The front and back longitudinal edges of each slat are respectively attached to the front face and the back face. The resulting structure when combined with a hardware system is a light control honeycomb window covering. Movement of the light impeding slats from a position perpendicular to the front face and back face to a position generally parallel to the front and back face controls the amount of light which is admitted through the window covering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Inventor: Ren Judkins
  • Patent number: 6769471
    Abstract: A system for adding weight to and/or balancing the bottom rail of a window covering includes one or more body members positioned within the bottom rail, and each body member having a plurality of sockets for receiving weights. In the most preferred form of the invention, the sockets are horse-shoe shaped and are adapted to receive elongate rods having a circular cross-section. The plurality of sockets in the most preferred embodiment include sockets located adjacent the front of the bottom rail when the body member is in place and other sockets arranged toward the rear. Weighting and balancing is achieved by placing one or more rods in selected ones of the sockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2004
    Assignee: Newell Window Furnishings Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Voss, Kelly L. Murphy, Otto Kuhar