US20200138226A1 - Drapery center transmission lug coupler - Google Patents

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 system10 (system10) is presented.System10 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to facilitate the opening and closing ofshade material12. In the arrangement shown, as one example, thedrapery rod system10 has atop side14, abottom side16, afront side18, aback side20, aleft side22 and aright side24. In the arrangement shown, as one example, thedrapery rod system10 includes the following component pieces, among others:drapery rod26,brackets28,finials30,motor control assembly32,power source34, rings35 including one or more idler rings36, partial driver rings38, full driver rings40, among other components and features. Thedrapery rod system10 also includes acoupler assembly42 having alug44 with ahub46, anaxle48 extending a length between a pair of opposing ends50, a bearingassembly52 connected to eachend50 of theaxle48 having at least onebearing54 and anoptional coupler56 connected to eachend50 of theaxle48, among other components and features.
• Drapery Rod:
• Drapery rod system10 includes adrapery rod26.Drapery rod26 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to support as well as open andclose shade material12. In the arrangement shown, as one example,drapery rod26, is formed of an elongated member that extends a length between an opposing ends58.Drapery rod26 may be formed of a single, unitary member or may be formed of a plurality of connected members that form adrapery rod26. In the arrangement shown, as one example,drapery rod system10 includes a pair ofdrapery rods26 connected together at their inward ends58 at a center-positionedbracket28 using acoupler assembly42, as is described herein.
• In the arrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from anend58,drapery rod26 has a generally cylindrical shape with a generally smoothexterior surface60 and a hollow interior62. In the arrangement shown, as one example,exterior surface60 is generally cylindrical in shape and has a smooth surface that includesguide structure64 therein.
• Guide structure64 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to facilitate the movement of idler rings36, partial driver rings38 and full driver rings40 along the length of thedrapery rod26 asdrapery rod26 is rotated. In one arrangement, as is shown, guidestructure64 is formed of a helical guide structure positioned inexterior surface46. 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 structure64 can either be grooves, indentations, protrusions, threads or any other feature or the like, as is described herein in or on theexterior surface60 ofdrapery rod26.Guide structure64 can either ground or machined into the surface ofdrapery rod26, knurled into the surface ofdrapery rod26, cast or formed into the surface ofdrapery rod26, extruded into the exterior surface ofdrapery rod26, 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 asguide structure64. 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 ondrapery rod26. 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 theexterior surface60 ofdrapery rod26. 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 ofdrapery rod26, 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 ofguide structure64 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 onrotatable drapery rod26 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 thedrapery rod26. 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 thedrapery rod26. However, a varying pitch or angle of rotation is also hereby contemplated for use.
• Drapery rod26 includes a hollow interior62. Hollow interior62 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to reduce the amount of material needed to form adrapery rod26, as well as receive components of a system such asfinials30, amotor control assembly32,coupler assembly42 or components thereof or other elements. In the arrangement shown, as one example, hollow interior62 includes an interior surface66 which is generally smooth and cylindrical in shape and is positioned in approximate parallel spaced alignment toexterior surface60. With that said, due to the wall thickness ofdrapery rod26 the diameter of the interior surface66 is less than the diameter ofexterior surface60.
• In the arrangement shown, as one example, hollow interior62 includes one or more interior features68 that protrude inward from the interior surface66 which may be used to connect to the interior surface66 ofdrapery rod26 and thereby facilitate rotation of thedrapery rod26. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the interior features68 shown extend the length of thedrapery rod26.
• Brackets:
• Drapery rod system10 includesbrackets28.Brackets28 are formed of any suitable size, shape and design and are configured to attachdrapery rod26 to wall or other structure. In the arrangement shown, as one example,brackets28, includes a mountingplate70, asupport arm72, and acollar74. Mountingplate70 is configured to attach thebrackets28 to the wall or other structure.Support arm72 is configured to extend thecollar74 away from the mountingplate70, wall or other structure.7460 is configured to facilitate connection todrapery rod26 while allowing rotation ofdrapery rod26. This connection ofbrackets28 todrapery rods26 may come by way of intermediary components such ascoupler assembly42 positioned at the center-positionedbracket28.
• While threebrackets28 are shown in use, with a pair ofdrapery rods26 connected together at a center positionedbracket28 using acoupler assembly42, any number ofbrackets28 are hereby contemplated for use with any number ofdrapery rods26, as is any configuration ofbrackets28.
• Finials:
• Drapery rod system10 includesfinials30.Finials30 are formed of any suitable size, shape and design. In one arrangement,finials30 include adecorative element76 connected at their outward end which serves a decorative purpose and/or serves to close the outward end of final30. In another arrangement, as shown,finials30 include ahollow interior78 that may serve as a place to house components ofdrapery rod system10 therein such as amotor control assembly32 or other components. In one arrangement, as shown, the extension or shape offinial30 is configured to mimic the shape and configuration of thedrapery rod26. In the arrangement shown,finial30 is connected to the outward side of the outward positionedbracket28.
• Motor Control Assembly:
• Drapery rod system10 includes at least onemotor control assembly32.Motor control assembly32 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to facilitate motorized operation ofdrapery rod system10. In one arrangement, eachdrapery rod26 includes its ownmotor control assembly32, this is known as an uncoupled state, wherein eachdrapery rod26 rotates independently ofother drapery rods26. In another arrangement, two ormore drapery rods26 are driven by a singlemotor control assembly32, this is known as a coupled state, whereinadjacent drapery rods26 are coupled together throughcoupler assembly42 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 assembly32 includes amotor controller80, amicroprocessor82,memory84, a receiver or transceiver86 (transceiver),antenna88, a printed circuit board90 (PCB), amotor92, agearbox94, and aconnection assembly96, among other components.
• In the arrangement shown, as one example, amotor controller80 is any component or combination of components that are configured to control operation ofmotor92.Microprocessor82 is any computing device that is configured to receive inputs, processes these inputs according to information or instructions or software or code stored inmemory84 and output commands.Memory84 is any information storage device that is configured to receive information, store information and provide information on request ofmicroprocessor82.Memory84 may be formed of flash, dram, ram, a hard-drive or any combination thereof or the like.Microprocessor82 andmemory84 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 ortransceiver86 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),transceiver86 acts as only a receiver. When operating in send and receive mode (two-way communication),transceiver86 acts both as a receiver as well as a transmitter.Antenna88 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. Printedcircuit board90 is configured of any structural component that is configured receive electrical components of themotor controller80 while providing selected electrical isolation as well selected electrical connection between electronic components.Motor92 is any component that receives electric power and converts this power into motion.Gearbox94 is any component that changes the rotational speed of an output shaft of amotor92 to a desired speed through an arrangement of gears or other components.Connection assembly96 is any arrangement of components that facilitate connection ofmotor control assembly32 to the other components ofdrapery rod system10 such asbrackets28 and/ordrapery rod26 so as to facilitate operation of thedrapery rod system10.
• It is hereby contemplated thatmotor control assembly32 may be formed of any other configuration. In one arrangement,motor control assembly32 may be positioned within the hollow interior62 ofdrapery rod26, either on the inward end or the outward end.
• In the arrangement shown,motor control assembly32 includes alug44 positioned at its outward end, acoupler56 positioned at its inward end and a bearingassembly52 positioned just inward of thelug44. These elements are further described herein.
• Power Source:
• Drapery rod system10 includes apower source34.Power source34 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to provide power to electronic components ofdrapery rod system10, such asmotor control assembly32. In the arrangement shown, as one example, power source includes abattery tube98 that is electrically connected todrapery rod system10 by way oflead100. In the arrangement shown, as one example,battery tube98 is formed as an elongated cylindrical member and houses a plurality ofbatteries102. Use of anexternal battery tube98 provides the benefit of being able to place thepower source34 at any external position in a hidden manner behindshade material12. Alternatively,power source34 may be positioned withindrapery rod26 orfinials30 or withinbrackets28, or within any other component of thedrapery rod system10. 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 system10 includesshade material12.Shade material12 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is generally configured of a piece of material that hangs fromdrapery rod26 by way ofrings35.Shade material12 is configured of a piece of material that serves both aesthetic purposes as well as light remediation purposes. For one way opening draperies,shade material12 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 inFIG. 1, as one example,shade material12 extends from anupper edge104 to alower edge106 to anexterior edge108 to aninterior edge110 in a generally panel like manner.
• In the arrangement shown, as one example,shade material12 is connected at itsupper edge104 to a plurality ofrings35 that are positioned arounddrapery rod26. As rings move along the length of thedrapery rod26shade material12 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 system10 includes a plurality ofrings35.Rings35 are formed of any suitable size, shape and design and are generally configured to facilitate connection ofshade material12 anddrapery rod26 while allowing movement ofshade material12 along the length ofdrapery rod26. In the arrangement shown, as one example, there are three similar rings that form part of thesystem10 that generally include idler rings36, partial driver rings38, and full driver rings40. In the arrangement shown, as one example, idler rings36, partial driver rings38, and full driver rings40 all include ahoop member112, an interior member114, and a connection member116 among other components, features, and the like.
• Hoop Member:
• In the arrangement, as one example,hoop member112 is formed of a generally cylindrical member that is configured to fit arounddrapery rod26. In the arrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from the front,hoop member112 is generally narrow in width as compared to the length ofdrapery rod26. In the arrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from the side,hoop member96 is a relatively thin cylindrical member having a hollow interior.Hoop member112 serves both a structural purpose as well as an aesthetic purpose. Aesthetically,hoop member112 is configured to have a pleasing aesthetic appearance, and may have the same surface treatment or appearance of that as thedrapery rod26. Structurally,hoop member112 is formed of a durable and/or rigid member that has the strength to supportshade material12 while movingshade material12 between an open and closed position alongdrapery rod26. While acylindrical hoop member112 is shown,hoop member112 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 member112 is formed of a metallic material to provide optimum strength of rigidity as well as to match the material of drapery rod26 (which is generally metallic material), however any other material is hereby contemplated for use.Hoop member112 is configured to house and hold an interior member114.
• Interior Member:
• In the arrangement shown, as one example, interior member114 is formed of a generally cylindrical member that is configured to fit arounddrapery rod26 as well as withinhoop member112. In the arrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from the front, interior member114 is generally narrow in width as compared to the length ofdrapery rod26 and is sized and shaped to fit withinhoop member112. In the arrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from the side, interior member114 is a relatively thin generally cylindrical member having a hollow interior.
• In the arrangement shown, as one example, interior member114 includes an exterior surface that is configured to engage the interior surface ofhoop member112 and an interior surface that is configured to engage theexterior surface60 ofdrapery rod26.
• In one arrangement, as stated herein,drapery rod26 and orhoop member112 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 member114 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 member114 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 ofdrapery rod26 as well as quiet operation. In one arrangement, interior member114 is formed of a material which has a lower durometer than the materials which formdrapery rod26 and/orhoop member112 so as to facilitate vibrational dampening and/or noise reduction. In this way, forming interior member114 out of a non-metallic material whendrapery rod26 and/orhoop member112 are formed of a metallic material provide substantial operational advantages.
• In a one-way opening drapery application, a plurality of idler rings36 are positioned around thedrapery rod26 on the non-opening side. The number of idler rings36 needed depends on the length of thedrapery rod26 as well as the property of the materials of theshade element12. Positioned on the opening side of the plurality of idler rings36 is afull driver ring40. Positioned on the opening side of thefull driver ring40 is apartial driver ring38.
• In a center opening and/or center closing drapery application, a plurality of idler rings36 are positioned around thedrapery rod26 on the outward sides ofdrapery rod26. The number of idler rings36 needed depends on the length of thedrapery rod26 as well as the property of the materials of theshade element12. Positioned on the inward side of the plurality of idler rings36 is afull driver ring40. Positioned on the inward side of thefull driver ring40 is apartial driver ring38.
• The arrangement of a plurality of idler rings36 followed by afull driver ring40 followed by apartial driver ring38 provides operational advantages, namely apartial driver ring38 drives itself along the length ofdrapery rod26 while allowing the full driver ring to “crush” theshade material12 at the fully closed position, which means to cause thefull driver ring40 to either engage directly thepartial driver ring38 or thereby engage in close proximity thepartial driver ring38, which has the effect of forcing an increased amount ofshade material12 at the fully closed position, which has the effect of reducing light gaps in theshade material12 at the fully closed position.
• As thedrapery rod system10 rotates, therings35 are driven along the length of thedrapery rod26 to move theshade material12 between and opened and a closed position. More specifically,full driver ring40 engages theguide structure64 ofdrapery rod26 which causes linear movement offull driver ring40 along the length ofdrapery rod26. As thefull driver ring40 linearly moves alongdrapery rod26,full driver ring40 has a tendency to push or pullidler rings36 andpartial driver ring38 as theshade material12 moves between the opened position and the closed position.
• Idler Rings:
• Drapery rod system10 includes a plurality of idler rings36. Idler rings36 are formed of any suitable size, shape and design and are generally configured to facilitate connection ofshade material12 anddrapery rod26 while allowing movement ofshade material12 along the length ofdrapery rod26. In the arrangement shown, as one example, idler rings36 havehoop member112, interior member114, In one arrangement, idler rings include a stabilizer116, which is an inward extension of the interior member114 that follows the contour of theexterior surface60 ofdrapery rod26. This stabilizer116 helps to stabilize theidler ring36 as it moves along thedrapery rod26. Idler rings36 are configured to allow free sliding across a length ofdrapery rod26. As such, the interior surface of stabilizer116 ofidler ring36 is smooth and free of any features or teeth or other members that engageguide structure64. As such, whenshade material12 is connected toidler ring36, positioned arounddrapery rod26,shade material12 can be easily pulled and/or slid along a length ofdrapery rod26. Asidler ring36 moves along the length ofdrapery rod26 the engagement between the interior surface of stabilizer116 and the exterior surface ofguide element26 provides guidance and alignment toidler ring36, thereby preventing theidler ring36 from tilting, canting, or binding ondrapery rod26. In addition, due to the material properties of the non-metallic material that forms interior member114 and/or stabilizer116 asidler ring36 moves overdrapery rod26, the material which forms the interior member114 and/or stabilizer116 absorbs vibrations, reduces noise, and provides smooth, low friction sliding. In contrast, if stabilizer116 is formed of a metallic material, likedrapery rod26, this engagement would have a tendency to click, rattle, or make other noises stabilizer116 passes overguide structure64 due to the metal on metal engagement.
• Partial Driver Ring:
• Drapery rod system10 includes at least onepartial driver ring38. More specifically, center openingdrapery rod systems10 include a pair of partial driver rings38 positioned at the center ofdrapery rod26 and inward offull driver ring40 which is inward of a plurality of idler rings36. One-way openingdrapery rod systems10 include onepartial driver ring38 positioned at the opening/closing side of thedrapery rod26 and inward offull driver ring40 and a plurality of idler rings36.
• In the arrangement shown, as one example,partial driver ring38 is similar to, if not identical to,idler ring36 with one difference being the inclusion of at least onetooth118.Tooth118 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is formed to engageguide structure64 ofdrapery rod26 so as to facilitate linear movement along the length ofdrapery rod26.
• In the arrangement shown, as one example,tooth118 extends in a triangular cross-sectional shape downward from or outward from the interior surface of stabilizer116. 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,tooth118 extends at an angle that corresponds to the approximate angle that guidestructure64 extends across the exterior surface0 ofdrapery rod26. By extending the entireinterior surface118 of stabilizer116 this providestooth118 with maximum surface area of engagement withguide structure64; however, any other arrangement is hereby contemplated for use. Any other number ofteeth118 are hereby contemplated for use such as one, two, three, four, five, six or more that are similarly arranged to engageguide structure64. Whiletooth118 is shown as a protrusion extending outward from interior surface of stabilizer116, the opposite arrangement is hereby contemplated for use wheretooth118 is formed of a recess, groove, or other deviation into the interior surface of stabilizer116. Whentooth118 protrudes from interior surface of stabilizer116tooth118 is configured to be received within a groove ofguide structure64 whereas whentooth118 is a recess into interior surface of stabilizer116tooth118 is configured to receive a rail, thread, or other protrusion ofguide structure64.
• In one arrangement shown, as one example,tooth118 is positioned at the approximate center of the stabilizer116 which is also positioned at the top ofpartial driver ring38. In this position,tooth118 is position opposite ofconnection member119. This arrangement provides the functional advantage that asshade material12 pulls downward onpartial driver ring38 through its connection toconnection member119, this causestooth118 to be pulled downward into maximum engagement withguide structure64. However, any other arrangement is hereby contemplated for use wheretooth118 ormultiple teeth118 are positioned at other positions alongpartial driver ring38. In one arrangement, interior member114 may be moved or rotated with respect tohoop member112 so as to adjust the position of stabilizer116 and ortooth118. Alternatively,connection member119 may be moved relative to interior member114 and/orhoop member112 so as to adjust the position of stabilizer116 and ortooth118.
• During operation ofdrapery rod system10, asdrapery rod26 is rotated, due to the weight ofshade material12 pulling down onpartial driver ring38, this causestooth118 to engage withguide structure64. As thedrapery rod26 is rotated, the engagement betweentooth118 and guidestructure64, coupled with the downward force onpartial driver ring38, causespartial driver ring38 to laterally move along the length ofdrapery rod26. This lateral movement continues untilpartial driver ring38 engages a non-movable object such asbracket28 or stop, such as at the fully closed position, at which pointpartial driver ring38 no longer moves laterally which causes thetooth118 to come of out ofguide structure64 as thedrapery rod26 continues to rotate. As thedrapery rod26 continues to rotate, whilepartial driver ring38 is not engaged withguide structure64, this allowsfull driver ring40 to drive closer towardpartial driver ring38, thereby crushing theshade material12 at the fully closed position, thereby reducing light gaps.
• In the arrangement shown, as one example, thepartial driver ring38 is allowed to disengage theguide structure64 by the stabilizer116 only fitting partially around thedrapery rod26. By stabilizer116 only fitting around a portion ofdrapery rod26, this allowspartial driver38 to selectively move out of engagement withguide structure64 when the forces moving linearly are greater than the forces of moving vertically. Similarly, by stabilizer116 only fitting around a portion ofdrapery rod26 this allowspartial driver ring38 to move back into engagement withguide structure64 when thepartial driver ring38 is pulled downward by the weight ofshade material12 into engagement withguide structure64.
• In another arrangement ofpartial driver ring38, the stabilizer116 extends all the way around theentire exterior diameter60 ofdrapery rod26 and includes a slit or gap therein. This slit in the circular stabilizer116 allows the stabilizer116 to flex and open when forces increase thereby allowing theteeth118 to come out of theguide structure64 so as to allow thepartial driver ring38 to stop driving laterally when it engages acenter bracket28 or other stop. This arrangement of the circular stabilizer116 with a slit therein allows thetooth118 orteeth118 to selectively move in or out of engagement withguide structure64.
• In contrast to these arrangements ofpartial driver ring38, the stabilizer116 offull driver ring40 extends all the way around the entire exterior diameter ofdrapery rod26, and does not include a slit, which prevents theteeth118 offull driver ring40 from selectively moving in or out of engagement withguide structure64. In contrast, due to the dimensional tolerances of thedrapery rod26, theguide structure64, theteeth118 and the stabilizer116 thefull driver ring40 is forced to laterally move when thedrapery rod26 is rotated.
• Full Driver Ring:
• Drapery rod system10 includes at least onefull driver ring40. More specifically, center openingdrapery rod systems10 include a pair of full driver rings40, where full driver rings40 are positioned between a plurality of idler rings36 at the outside and apartial driver ring38 at the inside. One-way openingdrapery rod systems10 include onefull driver ring40 positioned between a plurality of idler rings36 and apartial driver ring38.
• In the arrangement shown, as one example, full driver rings40 are similar to partial driver rings38 with one difference being stabilizer116 does not terminate at ends or have a slit therein. Instead the stabilizer116 extends around theexterior diameter60 of thedrapery rod26 in a continuous manner. In the arrangement shown, as one example, like partial driver rings38, full driver rings40 includes atooth118 positioned at the upper center of the interior surface of stabilizer116. Like thetooth118 ofpartial driver ring38, thisupper tooth118 offull driver ring40 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is formed to engageguide structure64 ofdrapery rod26 so as to facilitate linear movement along the length ofdrapery rod26 asshade material12 pulls downward onfull driver ring40.
• In the arrangement shown, as one example, asecond tooth118 is positioned on the interior surface at the bottom center of stabilizer116. In this arrangement, thefirst tooth118 and thesecond tooth118 are arranged on opposite sides of stabilizer116 from one another so as to match the spacing and placement of the features ofguide structure64. While twoteeth118 are shown in use, any number ofteeth118 are hereby contemplated for use and are configured to correspond in size, shape and placement to the features ofguide structure64.
• In the arrangement shown, as one example, the interior diameter of the interior surface of stabilizer116 offull driver ring40 is sized and shaped to fit around the exterior surface ofdrapery rod26 with close and tight tolerances, while still allowing for smooth, easy and low friction sliding offull driver ring40 along the length ofdrapery rod26. As opposingteeth118 extend inward from interior surface of stabilizer116 the inner diameter of the inward end ofteeth118 are less than the exterior diameter ofdrapery rod26. Said another way, theteeth118 extend inward from the interior surface of stabilizer116 a greater distance than the dimensional tolerances between the interior diameter of stabilizer116 and theexterior surface60 ofdrapery rod26. As such, whenfull driver ring40 is positioned arounddrapery rod26,teeth124 are engaged withinguide structure64. As the stabilizer116 offull driver ring40 fully extends around the exterior diameter ofdrapery rod26 with close and tight tolerances,teeth124 are prevented from skipping out of or coming disengaged fromguide structure64 as drapery rod is rotated. As such, whendrapery rod26 is rotated,full driver ring40 moves laterally along the length ofdrapery rod26. This is in contrast topartial driver ring38 which, due to the stabilizer116 only extending around a portion of thedrapery rod26, or extending all the way around it but includes a slit therein, which is allowed to jump out of or skip out of engagement withguide structure64 so as to allow free rotation ofdrapery rod26 whilepartial driver ring38 remains stationary and/or disengaged.
• During operation ofdrapery rod system10, asdrapery rod26 is rotated,teeth118 offull driver ring40 are engaged with the grooves ofguide structure64 ofdrapery rod26. Due to the weight ofshade material12 pulling down onfull driver ring40, this maintains the vertical orientation offull driver ring40 and preventsfull driver ring40 from rotating asdrapery rod26 rotates. As thedrapery rod26 is rotated, the engagement betweenteeth118 and guidestructure64, coupled with the downward force onfull driver ring40, causesfull driver ring40 to laterally move along the length ofdrapery rod26. Due to the direct engagement offull driver ring40 withdrapery rod26, the operational limits, the fully opened and fully closed positions, are programmed and controlled bymotor control assembly32.Motor control assembly32 powers motor80 to rotatedrapery rod26 untilfull driver ring40 reaches its desired position alongdrapery rod26 at which point power to themotor80 is terminated.
• Asdrapery rod26 is rotated,full driver ring40 causes movement of the idler rings36 andpartial driver ring38.
• In an opening operation, when starting at a fully closed position,partial driver ring38 tends to be in engagement with or within close proximity of abracket28 withfull driver ring40 positioned in engagement with or in close proximity ofpartial driver ring36 and idler rings36 tend to be spaced out along the length ofdrapery rod26 with the outward most ring positioned on the side of a bracket oppositepartial driver ring38. Asdrapery rod26 is rotated, the engagement offull driver ring40 withguide structure64 has a tendency to movefull driver ring40 toward the open position along the length ofdrapery rod26. Asdrapery rod26 is rotated,full driver ring40 has a tendency to push the idler rings36 asfull driver ring40 moves toward the open position. In an opening operation,partial driver ring36 when engaged withguide structure64 may drive under its own power, however at other timespartial driver ring36 is pulled along the length ofdrapery rod26 byfull driver ring40 toward the open position. Thefull driver ring40 continues to move toward the open position untilfull driver ring40 compacts the plurality of idler rings36 betweenbracket28 andfull driver ring40. This causes a compressed stack ofshade material12 at the opening end ofdrapery rod26 whenshade material12 is in the fully opened position.
• In a closing operation, when starting at a fully opened position, the plurality of idler rings36 are positioned within close proximity within one another between thebracket28 at the open position andfull driver ring40. Asdrapery rod26 is rotated, the engagement offull driver ring40 withguide structure64 has a tendency to pull the trailing idler rings36 asfull driver ring40 moves toward the closed position. In a closing operation,partial driver ring36 when engaged withguide structure64 may drive under its own power however whenpartial driver ring38 is disengaged fromguide structure64full driver ring40 will pushpartial driver ring36 toward the closed position.
• This lateral movement continues untilpartial driver ring38 engages non-movable object such asbracket28 or stop, such as at the fully closed position, at which pointpartial driver ring38 no longer moves laterally which causes the tooth to come of out ofguide structure64 as thedrapery rod26 continues to rotate. As thedrapery rod26 continues to rotate, whilepartial driver ring38 is not engaged withguide structure64, this allowsfull driver ring40 to drive closer towardpartial driver ring38, 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, thepartial driver ring38 is allowed to disengage theguide structure64 by the stabilizer116 only fitting partially around thedrapery rod26, or fitting all the way around thedrapery rod26 and including a slit that allows the stabilizer116 to flex or open allowing theteeth118 out of theguide structure64. By stabilizer116 only fitting around a portion ofdrapery rod26, or fitting all the way around and having a slit, this allowspartial driver38 to selectively move out of engagement withguide structure64 when the forces moving linearly are greater than the forces of moving vertically.
• Similarly, by stabilizer116 only fitting around a portion ofdrapery rod26, or fitting all the way around thedrapery rod26 and including a slit that allows the stabilizer116 to flex or open allowing theteeth118 out of theguide structure64, this allowspartial driver ring38 to move back into engagement withguide structure64 when thepartial driver ring38 is pulled downward by the weight ofshade material12 into engagement withguide structure64. Or, in the arrangement with the stabilizer116 fitting all the way around thedrapery rod26 and including a slit that allows the stabilizer116 to flex or open, theteeth118 move back into theguide structure64 under elastic compression or bias of the stabilizer which desires to move back to an un-stretched round shape.
• In contrast to this arrangement ofpartial driver ring38, the stabilizer116 offull driver ring40 extends around the entire exterior diameter ofdrapery rod26, which prevents theteeth118 offull driver ring40 from selectively moving in or out of engagement withguide structure64.
• As thedrapery rod26 rotates, guides116 of idler rings36 and partial driver rings38 help to smooth the operation ofdrapery rod system10 as it moves between open and closed position by guiding theserings35, by holding the exterior surface ofdrapery rod26 with close and tight sliding tolerances. In addition, the material properties of stabilizer116 helps to absorb vibration and noise and helps to smooth guidance ofrings35 overdrapery rod26. In addition, the operation of thefull driver ring40 that cannot escape engagement withguide structure64 in concert withpartial driver ring38 that may escape engagement ring ofguide structure64 allows for crushing of theshade material12 at fully closed position thereby reducing or eliminating light gaps.
• Coupler Assembly:
• Drapery rod system10 includes acoupler assembly42.Coupler assembly42 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is generally configured to facilitate connection of opposing oradjacent drapery rods26 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 assembly42 includes alug44 with ahub46, anaxle48 extending a length between a pair of opposing ends50, a bearingassembly52 connected to each side of theaxle48 and having at least onebearing54, and anoptional coupler56 connected to each side of theaxle48, among other components and features.
• In the arrangement shown, as one example, in its most basic form,coupler assembly42 may be used to join twoadjacent drapery rods26 at a center-positionedbracket28. In this arrangement, theseadjacent drapery rods26 may rotate independent of one another, which is known as an “uncoupled state” (whencouplers56 are not used in association with coupler assembly42). In this arrangement, eachdrapery rod26 requires a motor control assembly32 (or a manual movement system, such as a pull cord, wand or the like) to facilitate independent rotation of eachdrapery rod26. In this arrangement, rotation of onedrapery rod26 is not transferred to theother drapery rod26 throughcoupler assembly42. Instead, thecoupler assembly42, with the use of bearingassembly52, facilitates free rotation of theinward end58 ofdrapery rod26. This arrangement provides the ability to independently control eachdrapery rod26. This independent control however comes at the cost or risk that thedrapery rods26 may not rotate at the same time or speed. In addition, separatemotor control assemblies32 must be used, which may increase cost for thedrapery rod system10.
• Alternatively, theseadjacent drapery rods26 may rotate in unison or simultaneously with one another, which is known as a “coupled state” (whencouplers56 are used in association with coupler assembly42). In this arrangement, only one of thedrapery rods26 require a motor control assembly32 (or a manual movement system, such as a pull cord, wand or the like) to facilitate rotation of bothdrapery rods26. In this arrangement, rotation of onedrapery rod26 is transferred to theother drapery rod26 throughcoupler assembly42 and through the center-positionedbracket28. This arrangement provides the ability to simultaneously control eachdrapery rod26, which means that theshade material12 connected to eachdrapery rod26 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 singlemotor control assembly32 is needed to control two ormore drapery rods26. This also provides the benefit of providing adrapery rod system10 that extends a length far longer than asingle drapery rod26 while operating like asingle drapery rod26. This simultaneous control however comes at the cost that a user cannot independently set the position of theshade material12 connected to eachdrapery rod26.
• In the arrangement shown, only twodrapery rods26 are connected together bycoupler assembly42 at a center-positionedbracket28 with the outward ends58 of thedrapery rods26 connected to outward-positionedbrackets28. However, it is hereby contemplated that any number ofdrapery rods26 may be connected together using this arrangement. That is, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or ten ormore drapery rods26 may be connected together usingbrackets28 andcoupler assemblies42. Each of theseadjacent drapery rods26 may be coupled or uncoupled bycoupler assemblies42 to theadjacent drapery rods26. That is, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or ten or moreadjacent drapery rods26 could all be coupled to one another usingcoupler assemblies42 such that they all rotate in unison with one another. Alternatively, anydrapery rods26 may be uncoupled to theadjacent drapery rods26 such that they rotate independently of theadjacent drapery rods26. Any combination of coupled or uncoupleddrapery rods26 may be used.
• Lug:
• In the arrangement shown, as one example,coupler assembly42 includes alug44.Lug44 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is generally configured to facilitate connection ofcoupler assembly42 tobracket28. In the arrangement shown, as one example, lug44 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, lug44 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 incollar74 ofbracket28. That is, in one arrangement,bracket28 includes acollar74 positioned at the outward end ofsupport arm72 that includes an opening or recess therein that lug44 fits within with close and tight tolerances and in some cases frictional engagement.
• In the arrangement shown, as one example,collar74 is formed of anupper section120 and alower section122 that connect together in a clam-shell like manner along a seam line aroundlug44. Whenlug44 is positioned withincollar74, the interaction between the square, rectangular ornon-round lug44 within the similarly shaped recess incollar74 provides alignment as well as preventslug44 from moving or rotating withinbracket28. In addition, due to close and tight tolerances between the components, whenlug44 is placed within the opening betweenupper section120 andlower section122 ofcoupler74,lug44 is held in a tight and non-moveable manner.
• In the arrangement shown, as one example,hub46 extends through the approximate center oflug44.
• Hub:
• In the arrangement shown, as one example,coupler assembly42 includes ahub46.Hub46 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is generally configured to facilitate connection to lug44 while providing a place foraxle48 to connect to and extend throughlug44. In the arrangement shown, as one example,hub46 has a generally cylindrical shape that extends fromend124 to end124 and includes ahollow interior126. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the length ofhub46 is approximately centered onlug44. That is,hub46 extends an equal distance outward fromlug44.
• In the arrangement shown, as one example,axle48 is configured to extend through thehollow interior126 ofhub46 while bearingassemblies52 are configured to be positioned around the exterior surface of each side ofhub46.
• Axle:
• In the arrangement shown, as one example,coupler assembly42 includes anaxle48.Axle48 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is generally configured to facilitate the transmission of rotation throughlug44 andhub46. In the arrangement shown, as one example,axle48 has a generally cylindrical shape that extends fromend50 to end50. Astep130 is positioned near the ends50. The diameter ofaxle48 outward fromstep128 is substantially narrower than the portions ofaxle48 inward fromstep128.
• In the arrangement shown, as one example, the portion of axle outward fromstep128 is generally cylindrical in shape, albeit substantially narrower than the other portions ofaxle48. In addition, in the arrangement shown, as one example, the portions ofaxle48 outward fromstep128 has a flat section or other feature therein that disrupts the cylindrical shape of this portion ofaxle48 that facilitates connection ofcoupler56 toaxle48 while preventing rotation of thecoupler56 with respect toaxle48.
• In the arrangement shown, as one example, the length of axle is approximately centered onlug44 andhub46. That is,axle48 extends an equal distance outward fromlug44 andhub46.
• In the arrangement shown, as one example,axle48 is configured to extend through thehollow interior126 ofhub46 with close and tight tolerances while facilitating rotation ofaxle48 withinhub46. In one arrangement, bearings, such as roller bearings, may be used in association withhub46 andaxle48.
• Bearing Assemblies:
• In the arrangement shown, as one example,coupler assembly42 includes a pair of bearingassemblies52.Bearing assemblies52 are formed of any suitable size, shape and design and are generally configured to connect to theend58 ofdrapery rod26 while providing support while allowing rotation of thedrapery rod26. In the arrangement shown, as one example, bearingassemblies52 have a generally cylindricalexterior surface130 that is configured to fit within the hollow interior62 of adrapery rod26 at itsend58. Theexterior surface130 of bearingassembly52 includes at least onefeature132 therein and terminates at acollar134 that extends outward from exterior surface130 a distance.
• In the arrangement shown, as on example, the at least onefeature132exterior surface130 of bearingassemblies52 are configured to receive and mesh with acorresponding feature136 in the hollow interior62 ofdrapery rod26. This meshing engagement between thefeatures132 in theexterior surface130 of bearingassemblies52 with thefeatures136 in the interior surface ofdrapery rod26 ensures that theexterior surface130 of bearingassembly52 rotates with thedrapery rod26.
• In the arrangement show, as one example, the bearingassembly52 is inserted within the hollow interior62 ofdrapery rod26 until thecollar134 engages theend58 ofdrapery rod26. Oncecollar134 engages theend58 ofdrapery rod26 bearingassembly52 is fully inserted within the hollow interior62 ofdrapery rod26.
• In the arrangement show, as one example, bearingassemblies52 include at least onebearing54 that facilitate connection tohub46 and lug44 while allowing rotation of bearing assembly52 (as well as any connected drapery rod26) with respect tohub46 andlug44. In the arrangement shown, as one example,bearings54 are what are known as roller bearings, however any other configuration of a bearing is hereby contemplated for use.
• In one arrangement, bearingassemblies52 have ahollow interior138 that is configured to fit over the exterior surface of theends124 ofhub46. In this arrangement, one ormore bearings54 are positioned betweenhub46 and bearingassembly52 thereby facilitating rotation of bearingassembly52 with respect tohub46 andlug44. That is, in this arrangement, the interior surface of thehollow interior138 of bearingassemblies52 include one ormore bearings54 therein, and the interior surface of the one ormore bearings54 engage the exterior surface of thehub46. In this way thebearings54 facilitate rotation of bearingassembly52, and any attached drapery rod, with respect tohub46 andlug44.
• In one arrangement, as one example, onebearing54 is positioned at the inward end ofhollow interior138 and onebearing54 is positioned at the outward end ofhollow interior138. The use of two, or more,bearings54 to connect bearingassembly52 tohub46 provides increased stability over using only asingle bearing54. In one arrangement,bearings54 are press-fit or friction fit over the exterior surface ofhub46, 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, lug44,hub46,axle48, bearingassemblies52,bearings54 anddrapery rod26 all share a center axis andaxle48, bearingassemblies52,bearings54 anddrapery rods26 rotate around this shared center axis.
• In one arrangement, lug44,hub46,axle48 anddrapery rod26 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 themetallic drapery rods26 and between thedrapery rods26 and themetallic lug44,hub46 andaxle48, in one arrangement, bearingassembly52 is formed of a compressible material that absorbs or dampens vibrations frommetallic drapery rods26,lug44,hub46 andaxle48. 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 ofdrapery rods26,lug44,hub46 and/oraxle48 and may be formed of a plastic, composite, rubber, UHMW material, foam, synthetic rubber, urethane, or any other non-metallic material or the like.
• Whenadjacent drapery rods26 are intended to be in an uncoupled state, bearingassemblies52 are connected toaxle48 anddrapery rods26 are connected to bearingassemblies52, andcouplers56 are not used. In this arrangement, eachdrapery rod26 is allowed to rotate independent of one another.
• Whenadjacent drapery rods26 are intended to be in a coupled state,couplers56 are connected toaxle48 outward of bearingassemblies52. In this arrangement, eachdrapery rod26 rotates in unison with other coupleddrapery rods26.
• Couplers:
• In the arrangement shown, as one example,coupler assembly42 includes a pair ofoptional couplers56.Couplers56 are formed of any suitable size, shape and design and are generally configured to connect to theend58 ofdrapery rod26, inward of bearingassembly52, and facilitate transmission of rotation of onedrapery rod26, through thecoupler assembly42 into the adjacent, or coupled,drapery rod26 such that the coupleddrapery rods26 rotate in unison. In the arrangement shown, as one example,couplers56 have a generally cylindricalexterior surface140 that is configured to fit within the hollow interior62 of adrapery rod26 at itsend58. Theexterior surface140 ofcoupler56 includes at least onefeature142 therein.
• In the arrangement shown, as on example, the at least onefeature142exterior surface140 ofcouplers56 are configured to receive and mesh with acorresponding feature136 in the hollow interior62 ofdrapery rod26. This meshing engagement between thefeatures142 in theexterior surface140 ofcoupler56 with thefeatures136 in the interior surface ofdrapery rod26 ensures that theexterior surface140 of bearingassembly52 rotates with thedrapery rod26.
• In the arrangement shown, as one example, thecoupler56 is inserted within the hollow interior62 ofdrapery rod26 until thecollar134 of bearingassembly52 engages theend58 ofdrapery rod26. In this way,coupler56 is positioned just inward of bearingassembly52 within the hollow interior62 ofdrapery rod26. Oncecollar134 of bearingassembly52 engages theend58 ofdrapery rod26coupler56 is fully inserted within the hollow interior62 ofdrapery rod26.
• In one arrangement,couplers56 have ahollow interior144 that is configured to fit over the exterior surface of theends50 ofaxle48. In this arrangement,hollow interior144 is sized and shaped to fit over theends50 ofaxle48 with a corresponding shape. That is, when the ends50 ofaxle48 is are round with a flat spot (otherwise known as D-shaped), thehollow interior144 ofcoupler56 is similarly round with a flat spot (otherwise known as D-shaped). This similarly shaped non-round configuration allowscouplers56 to be easily slid onto theends50 ofaxle48 while preventing rotation ofcouplers56 with respect toaxle48 oncecouplers56 are installed.
• In the arrangement shown, as one example, once theend50 ofaxle48 is inserted into thehollow interior144 of coupler56 aclip146 is installed over theoutward end50 ofaxle48 that extends past and through thehollow interior144 ofcoupler56.Clip146 may be formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to connect to theend50 ofaxle48 and holdcoupler56 onto theaxle48. In the arrangement,clip146 is a spring clip that slides over theend50 ofaxle48 and frictionally holds on toaxle48 thereby preventingcoupler56 from sliding off theend50 ofaxle48
• In one arrangement, lug44,hub46,axle48 anddrapery rod26 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 themetallic drapery rods26 and between thedrapery rods26 and themetallic lug44,hub46 andaxle48, in one arrangement,coupler56 is formed of a compressible material that absorbs or dampens vibrations frommetallic drapery rods26,lug44,hub46 andaxle48. 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 ofdrapery rods26,lug44,hub46 and/oraxle48 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 ofopenings148 extend laterally, or from the inward end to the outward end ofcoupler56, just below theexterior surface140 ofcoupler56 and/or between theexterior surface140 and thehollow interior144. Theseopenings148 provide additional give and flexibility tocoupler56 and help to dampen vibrations and reduce noise transmission betweencoupler56 andaxle48 anddrapery rod26.
• Half Coupler Assembly:
• In coupleddrapery rod systems10, the free end of the coupleddrapery rod26 is connected to the outward-positionedbracket28 using ahalf coupler assembly150, which is essentially one side of anuncoupled coupler assembly42. That is,half coupler assembly150 couples the end of adrapery rod26,opposite coupler assembly42, to an outward positionedbracket28 while allowing free rotation of thedrapery rod26. In one arrangement,half coupler assembly42 includes alug44 and bearingassembly52 similar, if not identical to, that described herein with respect tocoupler assembly42 and reference is made to those portions of the disclosure herein without repeating them.
• In this arrangement, bearingassembly52 is installed in theend58 ofdrapery rod26opposite coupler assembly42 until thecollar134 engages theend58 ofdrapery rod26. In this arrangement, thefeature132 of bearing assembly meshes with thefeature136 of the hollow interior62 ofdrapery rod26. Once installed, thelug44 ofhalf coupler assembly150 is installed in thecollar74 of the outward positionedbracket28 between theupper section120 and thelower section122. In this position, theoutward end58 ofdrapery rod26 is held bybracket28 while allowing free rotation ofdrapery rod26.
• In Operation:
• When installing adrapery rod system10 having two ormore drapery rods26, the user determines whether they want thedrapery rods26 to operate independent of one another, also known as an uncoupled state, or alternatively if they want thedrapery rods26 to operate in unison with one another, also known as a coupled state.
• Uncoupled State:
• When installingdrapery rod system10 in an uncoupled state, the user assembles thecoupler assembly42 withoutcouplers56 installed on theends50 ofaxle48. That is, in one arrangement, the user installs the center positionedbracket28 and the outer positionedbrackets28.
• The user assembles thecenter coupler42 by installing theaxle48 through thehub46 andlug44. Next, the user installs the bearingassemblies52 andbearings54 by sliding them over theends50 ofaxle48. As this will be an uncoupledcoupler assembly42, nocouplers56 are used on the ends
• The user inserts the bearingassembly52 on each end of thecoupler assembly42 into theend58 of eachdrapery rod26 until thecollar134 engages theend58 of thedrapery rod26. In this position, thefeature132 of bearingassembly52 meshes with thefeature136 of the hollow interior62 ofdrapery rod26. In this way, thecoupler assembly42 connects theadjacent drapery rods26 in an uncoupled state.
• The user inserts amotor control assembly32 in the outward ends58 ofdrapery rods26 in much the same way thecoupler assembly42 is installed. The user also installs therings35 over thedrapery rod26, with apartial driver ring38 positioned adjacent each side of thecoupler assembly42 followed by afull driver ring40 followed by the desired number of idler rings36.
• With thedrapery rods26,coupler assembly42,motor control assemblies32, and rings35 installed, the user ensures that theupper section120 of the center-positionedbracket28 and the outward positionedbrackets28 are open. Next, the user places thelug44 ofcoupler assembly42 into thelower section122 of the center positionedbracket28 at the same time that thelug44 of themotor control assembly32 goes into thelower section122 of the other outward positionedbrackets28. Once thelugs44 are installed in thelower sections122 ofbrackets28 theupper sections120 are closed on theupper sections122 thereby trapping thelugs44 within thecollar74 ofbrackets28. Finials30 and/ordecorative elements76 are installed.
• In this position, thedrapery rods26 are free to rotate independent of one another. When it is desired to open or close or otherwise move theshade material12 connected to eachdrapery rod26 in unison, care is taken to initiate movement of eachmotor control assembly26 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 theshade materials12, only themotor control assembly32 associated with thatdrapery rod26 is operated. In this way, this arrangement allows for independent operation of two (or more)drapery rods26, while also allowing for seemingly simultaneously operation of bothdrapery rods26.
• During operation, due to the non-metallic and partially flexible or absorbent orcompressible bearing assemblies52 positioned between themetallic axle48,hub46 andlug48 and thedrapery rods26, the bearingassemblies52 rotate around thehub46 while absorbing vibration and thereby reducing noise.
• Uncoupled State:
• When installingdrapery rod system10 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 installscouplers56 on theends50 ofaxle48 followed byclips146 which hold thecouplers56 in place. Second, the user installs ahalf coupler assembly150 in oneoutward end58 of adrapery rod26 while installing amotor control assembly32 in the otheroutward end58 of adrapery rod26.
• Once assembled in this manner, due to the connection ofcouplers56 to theends50 ofaxle48, as onedrapery rod26 rotates, so rotates theother drapery rod26. As such, when themotor control assembly32 operates, bothdrapery rods26 rotate in lock-step with one another.
• During operation, due to the non-metallic and partially flexible or absorbent orcompressible bearing assemblies52 and couplers positioned between themetallic axle48,hub46 andlug48 and thedrapery rods26, the bearingassemblies52 andcouplers56 rotate around thehub46 while absorbing vibration and thereby reducing noise.
• From the above discussion it will be appreciated that thedrapery rod system10 and related methods of use, presented herein improves upon the state of the art.
• Specifically, thedrapery rod system10 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 (23)

What is claimed:

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 ofclaim 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 ofclaim 1 wherein the lug has a non-round exterior surface.

4. The system ofclaim 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 ofclaim 1 further comprising:

a hub;

wherein the hub is operatively connected to the lug;

wherein the axle extends through the hub.

6. The system ofclaim 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 ofclaim 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 ofclaim 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 ofclaim 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 ofclaim 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 ofclaim 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 ofclaim 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 ofclaim 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 ofclaim 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 ofclaim 12 wherein the lug has a non-round exterior surface.

17. The system ofclaim 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 ofclaim 12 further comprising:

a hub;

wherein the hub is operatively connected to the lug;

wherein the axle extends through the hub.

19. The system ofclaim 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 ofclaim 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 ofclaim 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 ofclaim 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.

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