Suspension and actuation systems for specialty window shades

Abstract

Manual deployment apparatus for specialty, pleated or multi-cellular window covering treatments including uniquely hinged mounting rails and single and/or continuous strand pull cords. The invention consists of apparatus that is used to acquire two modes of pleated or multi-cellular shade fabric deployment over generally curvillinear window openings, but particularly over window openings having circular and segmented shapes. A translational deployment, known as the 'Blossom Mode' moves a sculptured shade from its rest position by actuation of a continuous cord that is under constant tension. The shade may be deployed to any extent from the mere movement from the completely stowed position to the fully extended. The second modality, known as the 'Fan Mode' contemplates deployment of the multi-cellular shade by commencing with the stowed shade marginally secured between a pair of superimposed, and hingably connected rails. Pivoting on the hinges, a special dual hinge arrangement or flexible leg-base insert, the non-fixed rail is radially actuated, that is, rotated about the hinging mechanism, until the shade fans out over the area of desired coverage. Alternate methods of extension or retraction are provided; and, certain 'gap-filler' mechanisms of festoon character are suggested in addition to fan mode construction expedients.