A unitary assembly for an architectural fenestration, providing dynamic solar heat gain control

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSED EMBODIMENTS [0002] The objective of the present disclosure is to obtain a unitary assembly for an architectural fenestration, providing dynamic solar heat gain control, which: (1) provides a track-based frame structure/blind combination in which the blind is self-correcting should the blind fabric fall outside of the track; (2) provides directional shading, where the assembly provides for dynamically controlling the amount of light allowed to reach the heat storage unit; (3) provides a blind motor without limiter switches and with a quick-release slip-ring; and (4) provides a heat storage unit which is a thermally efficient, transparent and translucent structure, with which gain from sunny winter days is greater than nighttime loss, so as to provide supplemental heat.

[0003] According to a further object of the disclosure, options for the heat storage unit include a window-sized unitary collector and a collector comprising an array of smaller, individual collectors.

[0004] Regarding the first objective, blind fabric in a roller blind is not capable of remaining within a track without additional structural track guides. Should the fabric fall outside of the tracks, known track guides are unable to realign the blind fabric so as to enable the fabric to be automatically reinserted into the tracks. This patent document provides a solution to this problem.

[0005] Aspects of the remaining three objectives have been solved by the named inventor, as disclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT/US09/64682 for a Slatted Roller Blind, filed November 17,2009 on behalf of Hunter Douglas Inc., of Upper Saddle River, New Jersey, USA, and which named as an inventor W. Colson; and International Patent Application No.

-1PCT/US2007/008616 for Solar Heating Blocks, filed April 5,2007 on behalf of Hunter Douglas Inc., and which named as an inventor W. Colson. This patent document provides a unitary solution which heretofore has been unknown.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSED EMBODIMENTS [0006] The patent document discloses a unitary assembly for an architectural fenestration, providing dynamic solar heat gain control, which: (1 ) provides a track-based frame structure/blind combination in which the blind is self-correcting should the blind fabric fall outside of the track; (2) provides directional shading, where the assembly provides for dynamically controlling the amount of light allowed to reach the heat storage unit; (3) provides a blind motor without limiter switches and with a quick-release slip-ring; and (4) provides a heat storage unit which is a thermally efficient, transparent and translucent structure, with which gain from sunny winter days is greater than nighttime loss, so as to provide supplemental heat.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a unitary assembly for an architectural fenestration, providing dynamic solar heat gain control, the assembly including an exterior side along an outdoors side of the architectural fenestration and an interior side along an indoors side of the architectural fenestration, the assembly comprising: a solar energy collector comprising: a glazing; and a heat storage element disposed on the interior side of the assembly relative to the glazing; and a roller shade positioned on the exterior side of the assembly relative to the glazing, the roller shade comprising: a shade material; and louvers projecting outwardly from the shade material; wherein the roller shade is movable along the exterior side of the assembly between a retracted position and an extended position to dynamically control an amount of sunlight being transmitted to the solar energy collector.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a unitary assembly for an architectural fenestration, providing dynamic solar heat gain control, the assembly comprising: a solar energy collector comprising: a glazing with a low emissivity coating; and a heat storage gel; wherein the low emissivity coating is disposed on a surface of the glazing such that the low emissivity coating is thermally coupled to the heat storage gel via the glazing; and a shade located on an exterior side of the solar energy collector, the shade including shade material;

-2CA 2801901 2017-10-11 wherein the shade is movable along the exterior side of the solar energy collector between a retracted position and an extended position to dynamically control an amount of sunlight being transmitted to the solar energy collector.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a unitary assembly for an architectural fenestration, providing dynamic solar heat gain control, the assembly including an exterior side along an outdoors side of the architectural fenestration and an interior side along an indoors side of the architectural fenestration, the assembly comprising: a heat storage unit; a shade including shade material, the shade configured to be moved between retracted and extended positions along the exterior side of the assembly to dynamically control an amount of sunlight being transmitted to the heat storage unit; and a guide for guiding the shade material in a vertical direction when unwinding and winding the shade material; wherein the heat storage unit is disposed on the interior side of the assembly relative to the shade.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a unitary assembly for an architectural fenestration, providing dynamic solar heat gain control, comprising a solar energy collector comprising: a first glazing; a second glazing spaced apart from the first glazing such that an interior cavity is defined between the first and second glazings; and a thermal storage medium disposed within the interior cavity, the thermal storage medium comprising an aqueous hydrogel configured to adhere to an adjacent surface of each of the first and second glazings as heat is stored within the thermal storage medium; and a shade including shade material, the shade being located on an exterior side of the assembly relative to the solar energy collector; wherein the shade is movable along the exterior side of the assembly between a retracted position and an extended position to dynamically control an amount of sunlight being transmitted to the solar energy collector.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a unitary assembly for an architectural fenestration, providing dynamic solar heat gain control, the assembly including an exterior side along an outdoors side of the architectural fenestration and an interior side along an indoors side of the architectural fenestration, the assembly comprising: a solar energy collector disposed on the interior side of the assembly, the solar energy collector comprising: a first sealed cavity including an insulating gas stored therein; and a second sealed cavity including an aqueous thermal storage medium stored therein; and a shade disposed on the exterior side of

-3CA 2801901 2017-10-11 the assembly, the shade movable along the exterior side of the assembly between a retracted position and an extended position to dynamically control an amount of sunlight being transmitted to the solar energy collector; wherein, when the shade is moved to the retracted position, sunlight is allowed to be transmitted through the first sealed cavity and into the second sealed cavity such that solar energy is stored within the aqueous thermal storage medium.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an assembly for covering an architectural opening, comprising: a shade including a shade material, said shade material movable between a retracted position and an extended position; a frame positioned relative to the architectural opening, said frame defining a guide track configured to receive opposed side sections of said shade material as said shade material is moved between said retracted and extended positions, said guide track including a first side track and an opposed second side track; and a bottom rail coupled to a bottom end of said shade material, said bottom rail extending widthwise between a first end positioned adjacent to said first side track and a second end positioned adjacent to said second side track, said bottom rail including a first track guide extending from said first end into said first side track and a second track guide extending from said second end into said second side track; wherein said first and second track guides are maintained within said first and second side tracks as said shade material is moved between said retracted and extended positions.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an assembly for covering an architectural opening, comprising: a shade including a shade material, said shade material movable between a retracted position and an extended position; a frame positioned relative to the architectural opening, said frame defining a guide track configured to receive opposed side sections of said shade material as said shade material is moved between said retracted and extended positions, said guide track including a first side track and an opposed second side track; and a transverse alignment guide positioned above said first and second side tracks, said transverse alignment guide configured to support an underside of said shade material as said shade material is moved between said retracted and extended positions, said transverse alignment guide defining a forward edge; wherein said forward edge is vertically aligned with said first and second side tracks.

-3aCA 2801901 2017-10-11

In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided an assembly for covering an architectural opening, comprising: a shade including a shade material and a plurality of louvers coupled to and extending outwardly from said shade material, said shade material including opposed side sections and being movable between a retracted position and an extended position, each of said louvers including a first edge and a second edge opposite said first edge, each said louvers further comprising opposed side segments that overlie said opposed side sections of said shade material; and a frame positioned relative to the architectural opening, said frame defining a guide track configured to receive both said opposed side sections of said shade material and said opposed side segments of said louvers as said shade material is moved between said retracted and extended positions, said guide track including a first side track and an opposed second side track; wherein said opposed side segments are notched so that each side segment defines a notch depth that is less than a louver depth defined between said first and second edges of each of said louvers.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES [0007] Certain embodiments of the invention will be described through the use of the accompanying drawings, which are not to be considered as limiting, and in which:

[0008] Figure 1 illustrates the sun facing side of a disclosed slatted roller blind;

[0009] Figure 2 illustrates a side view of the blind illustrated in Figure 1 ;

[0010] Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of the blind illustrated in Figure 1 ;

[0011] Figure 4 illustrates a disclosed slatted roller blind in which the slats are height-wise progressively spaced;

[0012] Figure 5 illustrates a torque limiting motor coupling;

[0013] Figure 6 illustrates an exploded view of a blind assembly configuration which includes the motor coupling of Figure 5 as well as a quick-release slip-ring;

[0014] Figure 7a illustrates an elevational view of the proximate portion of the assembly of Figure 6, with sectional lines B-B;

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0015]

Figure 7b illustrates the cross sectional plan view of the assembly of Figure 6 along sectional lines identified in Figure 7a;

0016] igure 7c illustrates a plan view of fhû or the assembly of Figure 6, with sectional lines

0017]

Figure 7d illustrates the cross sectional of the of qure along

7c, [0018] [0019] distal

Figure of the

Figure

Fiaure proximate end

7b;

ustra a magnified sectional vi ew of a magnified version of Figure d, i 1.1 ustrat i.ng distal the background;

[0020]

Figure of the distal end of the assembly as illustrated in

Fiaure ring;

Figure with a fox heat, storage and dissipation;

Figure 12 illustrates a quad glazing with a for heat storage and dissioation;

[0023]

Figure 13A illustrates a heat conf i gur a t. i on _t part lai ly assembled, rom an interior illustrates a heat partially assembled, from ail exterior perspective, including a heat-absorbing mask on the exterior side;

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Figure 13C is a schematic illustration of a heat storage block configuration, partially assembled, from an interior perspective, against a glazing on the exterior side;

[0026]

Figure sectional view of a unitary assembly for an fenestration, which provides dynamic solar heat gain control, and which includes a slatted window;

side sectional view

4.' assembly of Figure fabric is unwound;

[0028]

Figure 16 illustrates a further top sectional view ,·*> ·£ }·\ ·

14, wi of the bottom rail;

i .1.1 ustrat ing the structure

<td rowspan="2"> [0029]</td><td rowspan="2"> Figure 17 assembly retracted;</td><td colspan="2"> illustrates a</td><td rowspan="2"> side sectional view of where the blind fabric</td><td rowspan="2"> the is</td>

<td> of Figure</td><td> 16,</td>

<td> [0030]</td><td> Figure 18</td><td> illustrates</td><td> Fha Λ</td><td> embodiment of Figure 14-</td><td> 17,</td>

<td></td><td> with the fc</td><td> dind fabric</td><td colspan="2"> unwound in a track;</td><td></td>

<td> [0031]</td><td> Figure 19</td><td> further ill</td><td> ustrfi</td><td> ites the embodiment of Fig</td><td> ure</td>

wi th a

from the track;

[0032]

Figure further illustrates the embodiment or with the blind retracted;

Figure strates the embodiment

Ox

Figure

14-17, with the blind in the track;

[0034]

Figure a top sectional view of a assembly for an architectural fenestration, which provides dynamic

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lite;

window having a tinted interior [0035.1

Figure 23 side secti onai view of the assembly of

Figure 22;

[0036]

Figure 24 sectional view of a unitary assembly for fenestration, which provides dynamic which includes a generic window;

illustrates

3.

side sectional view assembly of Figure 24;

unitary illustrates an top sectional view architectural of fenestration, provides dynamic solar: heat gain wh i ch in eludes a s1a 11ed blind and quad glazing of Figure 12;

[0039]

Figure lustrates assemo [0040]

Figure 28 illustrates too sectional view of a .ni tar y assembly for an architectural which provides dynamic solar heat and which includes a slatted blind, a tr ipie window, of Figure

13, and a mask on the solar heating block array;

[0041]

Figure lustrates of the assembly of Figure 28;

[0042]

Figure 30 top sectional view of a an architectural fenestration, which provides dynamic solar heat gain control, and which includes a slatted blind, a triple glazing window, the solar heating block array of Figure 13,

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PCT/US2011/039473 and the mask on the interior surface of lite; and [0043]

Figure 31 illustrates a side sectional view of the assembly of Figure 30

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSED EMBODIMENTS [0044]

Various components architecture1 fenestrat ion _t which provides dynamic solar heat gain control, ave bee^: incorporated patent documents.

be [0045]

THR SLATTED ROLLER BLIND [0046]

Turning to figure * / plural louvers wi. th di rectional shading so included, and the

14, spans the width o

10.

The roller 14 is the blind 10 without additional ladder cords

The illustrated roller 14 is about long.

[0047] slatted roller blind includes a screen

16.

substantially length of the screen, defined by opposing side the same as the width of the edges 18, 20, roller which is the length of the blind 10, is

The is defined by opposing top and bottom screen edges 22,

24.

The edge 22 is connected directly to the roller 14 and the bottom edge 24, when unwound, is vertically distanced therefrom. The screen

- /S«4.

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1ength shelf roller blinds or can be a tailored as specified for upscale window or door treatments [G048]

The plural vertically spaced slats 26, substantially the same length,

30, in first slat 26, and opposi slat 23.

same

23.

def incl

<td> Lude, e.</td><td> g., first</td><td> and second</td>

<td> Each</td><td> of the</td><td> slats has</td>

<td> Lned by</td><td> opposi ng</td><td> side edges</td>

<td> ng side</td><td> edges 34,</td><td> 36 in the</td>

<td> e lengt</td><td> .h of the</td><td> slats is</td>

<td> of the .</td><td> roller 14.</td><td></td>

<td> [0Û49] Each of the slats 26,</td><td> 28 al so</td><td> has</td><td> ; substantially</td><td> the</td>

<td> same circumferential dimension,</td><td> defined</td><td> V^s v</td><td> opposing front</td><td> and</td>

<td> back edges 38, 48 in the first</td><td> a*) 4. α λ. Ό f</td><td> and</td><td> opposing front</td><td> and</td>

<td> back edges 42, 44 in the second</td><td> slat 28.</td><td> The</td><td> depth of each</td><td> slat</td>

<td> 36, 38 is proportional, to Pi, wit</td><td> ich is ef</td><td> feet</td><td> ively about a t</td><td> bird</td>

of the the roller 14 circumference of the outer diameter of [0050] and 3 illustrate the edge curvature of the rouvers

HS illustrated in Fleure the blind 10 and louvers 12 wound about the roller 14, forms a spiral curve slat .5 the spiral urve 46 nearer to the slat is positioned curvature in the between each adjacent when the set of louvers 12 changes slat

26,

23.

a mean, or ave rage r adi u s which is less nearer to the bottom of the blind [0051]

The compact retracted rather easily can be fabricated subdivided with a in

TÛ »

A X,» A long units and hand

-8S«4.

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PCT/US2011/039473 example, the blind can be fabricated In sixteen-foot width (I.e., along the and a half times width provides reasonable yield when cutting for custom sized normal size range between three and eight feet wide.

[0052]

In the embodiment

A *5 t towards spacing can also be provi ded between slats, as exaggerated form in the figure.

Here, the blind projects the direct incident light

As vertical spa c 1. ng between adjacent

e., lengthwise

a.;.ong the increases, top slat and top three

H· the distance between the second and third slats 50, 52

Greater than the distance between the

F rst and second slats

48,

50.

The actual spacing gradient between each slat could increase by, of an inch.

<td> 10054]</td><td> d. XI</td><td> the figure, direct incident</td><td> 1 1 rt ’h t η &lt;·» Λ i-yu v 1-0</td><td colspan="2"> illustrated in</td>

<td> as sets</td><td> of</td><td> essentially parallel lines</td><td> 54, 56.</td><td> Due</td><td> to the</td>

<td> progress!</td><td> V»</td><td> spacing, direct light is</td><td> blocked</td><td> from</td><td> passing</td>

<td> through</td><td> the</td><td> top pair cf slats 46, 50.</td><td> However</td><td> , some</td><td> direct</td>

<td> light is</td><td> ca</td><td> pable of passing through, f</td><td> or exarap 1</td><td> e, the</td><td> bottom</td>

<img file="CA2801901C_D0001.tif" />

28.

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PCT/US2011/039473 [0055] The progressive spacing provides more view and less shade through the bottom slats 26, 28 as compared with the top slats 48, 50. As a result, sunlight is allowed to enter and brighten a space while being blocked from, the eyes of persons standing in the space. Other spacing options include the reversed spacing progression, a constant spacing between slats, a progression defined by non-linear gradient, such as a parabolic gradient, or a non-uniform gradient.

[0056] Materials used for the slatted roller blind 10 include, for the roller 14 illustrated in Figure 1, an aluminum tube having an outer diameter of approximately one inch and a wall thickness of approximately a sixteenth of an inch. Other tube materials and sizes could be utilized, including, e.g., a two inch outer diameter tube.

[0057] For external purposes, a rollable screen or film suitable for outdoor exposure is utilized. A film material may include clear polyester while screen materials may include metal, such as aluminum, or plastic, vinyl, fiberglass, and the like. A typical window screen, for example, can be fabricated from an aluminum mesh or core-and-sheath, such as vin.vl~coated fiberglass yarns, or polyethylene coated polypropylene yarns, which are heat-fused after weaving to fix the yarns at their crossing points. A screen in the form cf a wire mesh, material may be oriented at a forty-five degree angle or some other angle which offsets the mesh from a typical window or door screen orientation, so as to avoid a visual moiré pattern. Regarding the film option, one benefit of a film as compared with the screen is a relatively unobstructed view between the slats.

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PCT/US2011/039473 [0058]

The slats z e·, ?.. ο thermoplast io, such as [polyester] or

e.g., seven to fifteen rails thick

PVC, PET, or

PC the rrao-format1e at. between one and tWO hundred and fifty degrees F. This temperature range is just one example, (e · g. t larger} range, depending material the scope of he invention. The slats

26, can be adhered to the screen 16 at the respective slat rear edges 40, 44 co-ραΐyester hot-me11, applied [0009]

ROTARY MOTOR WITHOUT LIMITER SWITCHES

AND WITH •A Λ a torque limiter i ***

X&lt;b4 the disclosed motor which is unabre to appry torque in the unwind direction and is able upon reaching a threshold torque level [0061]

The motor coupling 60 includes an adaptor shaft 62, which is a motor drive shaft. Surrounding the adaptor shaft 62, centered between opposing ends

64, 66 of the adaptor shaft 62, is the outer race of the bearing 70, is provided which is designed to slip against the bearing [0062]

Holding is a spring

76, the selection of which, in combination with clutch material and clutch material thickness, defines the threshold torque required to slip the clutch against the bearing. The slip-clutch 72 configuration ·: « A O selected so

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PCT/US2011/039473 that slip occurs at a greater torque than required to wind the .roller blind

On the other hand, the configuration is selected so that slip occurs at strain the motor.

<td> [0063] The bearing €</td><td> '8, clutch</td>

<td> centered against each</td><td> other and</td>

<td> axial dimension. The</td><td> shaft 62</td>

clutch and spring, which provides incorporated patent document.

lower torque than required to and spring 76 are axially have substantially the same is longer than the bearing, the benefits outlined in the [0064]

Providing zone on both sides of the coupling coupling 60 depending on whether the motor is placed on the s i &lt;ie wi thin the roller tube, due to, e.g., the location of available wiring.

coupling is achieved by sliding the adaptor shaft 62 off of the motor shaft and so that the distal end 66 of the adaptor shaft the proximate end 64, faces the distal end of the motor

A cavity 78 is de rt.V ned between opposing, tch 72 and of the spring spring 76 shaped.

a base 88 of the cavity is race bearing 70, a first side of aligned edges 80, 84 '?2 the cavity 92 is defined by aligned edges 82, 86 of the clutch and spring 76.

<img file="CA2801901C_D0002.tif" />

The cavity 78 positioned against tang

<img file="CA2801901C_D0003.tif" />

illustrated in figures 6-9, and discussed belcw. The tang has a

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PCT/US2011/039473 radial inner surface 96 which does not reach the bearing, as well as opposing circumferential surfaces

98, 100. The tang moves circumferentially between opposing sides of the cavity so that one of the tang .surfaces 98, 100 presses against respective one of rhe cavity surfaces 90, 92, whereby the tang [0067]

Turning to figures 6-9 the coupling 00 is applied to an assembly including a rotary motor 102 powered by a timedpulse of current. In these figures, and figure

0, with respect in plan view, axis.;.

oroximate

A* '*

..

proximate means closer hand, distal side of the figure

Tn.

these figures, the timer are r» *&gt; r A 1. J V· identified

Howeve »· t timer electron!cs and remotely is within the of the ordinary artisan disclosure.

<td> [0068]</td><td colspan="2"> The motor co</td><td> upling 60 is fitted on</td><td> the</td><td> proximate</td><td> end</td>

<td> 104 O'</td><td> t the motor</td><td> 102,</td><td> i.e., on the motor dr</td><td> ive</td><td> shaft 106,</td><td> so</td>

<td> that</td><td> the distal</td><td> end</td><td> of the adaptor shaft</td><td> 66</td><td colspan="2"> is positioned</td>

<td> agains</td><td> it .a distal</td><td> end</td><td> 108 of the drive shaft</td><td> 106</td><td> An end</td><td> cap</td>

110, through which the motor drive shaft 106 connects with the motor coupling 60, securely connects the motor 102 to the roller tube 14. This connection enables the motor 102 to turn with the .14, sub ject to slippage provided bythe motor coupling 60, as discussed below.

[0069] The end cap cavity having a distal proximate end 116, The

110 base cap forms an axially portion 114, and base portion 114 extending cup-type which opens on its includes a radially central opening 118 which is large enough for the adaptor shaft

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PCT/US2011/039473 of the motor coupling 60

5) to pass through. The cam base portion.

between the proximate end of the motor 102 and the distal end 120 of the bearing, clutch and enables removal of the motor coupling disassembling cap and motor from each other.

The roi the roller bearing 68 respect tc can Le reversed without extensive handling operation :he of tieft-handed or right-handed assembly [0070]

A minimum amount of axial play 122 is provided betwee ,Τ'ι n conf ignration motor

120 of the bearing, coupling

60.

This prevents binding of these components se portion 114 is axially thick enough mounts 124 rubber bushings s t ando f f moun ts the end cap 110 the bushings during to seat use ano

The include a plurality of circumferentially spaced whic' and to motor .126, r n m \r . t S.'

The opened oroximate

102

Aside bushings also axiaiiy space the end cap vibrations.

end

116 of the

110 includes a radially outward extending lip

The sea proximate end .188 of the roller tube

14.

<td> [0071] Fixed</td><td> to the</td>

<td> opening is the</td><td> stationary</td>

<td> 136. The wall</td><td> bracket</td>

<td> tube bracket 1</td><td> 38. The</td>

<td> insertable into</td><td> the wall</td>

<td> S«4.; :1-5.:</td><td></td>

wall proximate side of bracket 134

134 can slidably the architectural receive a stationary tube bracket .138 is removable and bracket 134 via a flexible extension

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140 with a grip portion. 142. A clip 144 securely connects the tube bracket 138 with the wall, bracket 1.34, and which he

<img file="CA2801901C_D0004.tif" />

Removing tube bracket

<td> 138</td><td> from the</td><td> wall bracket</td><td> 134 removes the blind assembly</td><td> from</td>

<td> the</td><td colspan="2"> architectural opening.</td><td> On the other hand, inserting</td><td> the</td>

<td> tube</td><td> bracket</td><td> 1.38 into the</td><td> wall bracket 1.34 installs the b</td><td> 3.1 nd</td>

<td colspan="2"> assembly into</td><td> the architect</td><td> ural opening.</td><td></td>

Fixedly connected to side 146 stationary tube bracket 138 is the proximate end 148 of

These components are connected via,

e.g., circumferentially spaced screws 152. T.

The drive ring rs an cup-type cavity having a proximate base and w' hi ch opens on its distal end 156. The distal end

156 has a diameter enabling t to fit into the opening in the end 116 of the end cap 110. A radially inward step 158 at the

i.

by i GQ

A. U V/

Ct the end cap lip 132.

[0073]

The drive ring base 154 is axially thick enough to seat and encase the screws 152 in drive ring 150 is configured such and encased by the end cap 110, countersunk openings 162. The that when it is inserted into a distal surface 164 of the drive ring base 154 sits essentially against the proximate end

166 of the bearing, clutch and spring components of the motor coupling 60.

<td> [0074]</td><td> The drive</td><td> ring base 154</td><td> includes</td><td colspan="2"> an adaptor shaft</td>

<td> support</td><td> cavity 168,</td><td> which is an</td><td> axraliy</td><td> extending</td><td> cup-type</td>

<td> cavity</td><td> formed in it</td><td> ,s radial center</td><td> and whi</td><td> . ch opens</td><td> into the</td>

drive ring 150. The· support cavity 168 is large enough to seat -15CA 02801901 2012-12-06

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PCT/US2011/039473 the proximate portion 64 of the adaptor shaft 62 which extends .166 of the bearing, clutch and

The length shaft 62 is the same the of motor coupling 60.

that of the proximate portion 64 of the enables fitting the distal portion in the support cavity 168 for reversing the motor coupling 60 «bout the motor shaft 106, depending on whether the blind is leftha ded or right-handed assembly. Between the distal

Va· end of the drive ring

156, the above mentioned tang is provided.

the end cap 11

0, the distal the distal end of the drive ring 156, is essentially axially with the distal end of t e bearing/clutch and spring 120

This provides a maximum connection between the tang 94 and the cavity in the coupling 60.

[0076]

As the drive ring and lang are stationary, movement in the motor translates into rotating the motor, not the tang.

The connection between the motor and the cap turns the roller tube with the motor so long as the n'&gt; ;· **v rolling tang via action or the tang via action of the clutcl

The tube bracket

138 is formed with an axially extending cup-type cavity 172, the distal end 146 f* Ko tube receiving the drive ring support cavity

168

The tube bracket cavity 172 is sized to seat and encase

152 connecting the tube bracket 138 to the drive ring 150

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PCT/US2011/039473 [0078]

The above motor configuration provides a rotary drive customary drive system differs from the limiter ii, timed-pulse of power, motor coupling 60

With these components, the rotary motor is f subjected obstructions during w indi ng/unwi n d i ng oper a t i.on an d /o r reinstalled any number of times for any reason.

[0079]

Illustrated in figures 6,

a.

provided between end 178, ano /i at cached [0080]

Within

184 and flat for the blind connection is

30,

e.g., screws

182 the stationary bracket contact 136, of these contacts is a hot contact and the other is other.

<td> a neut</td><td> τ' a : 4- CL -Λ.</td><td colspan="2"> contact.</td>

<td> cavity</td><td> 133</td><td> in</td><td> the s'</td>

<td> cavity</td><td> 163</td><td> in</td><td> the tc</td>

.ibe bracket 120.

These are posit oned within a wi th an fixed

Radially centrally disposed within coated associated compression spring 192 an axially intermediate location the crass and rotating pi

190, seat 194

190 radi.a.l opening Ϊ96 in the proximate, side of the housing arge enough

190 to pass, but

CA 02801901 2012-12-06

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PCT/US2011/039473 not the spring 192.

As such, the spring action occurs between

<img file="CA2801901C_D0005.tif" />

<img file="CA2801901C_D0006.tif" />

194, forcing the pin

<img file="CA2801901C_D0007.tif" />

in the distal direction

<img file="CA2801901C_D0008.tif" />

:0032] sleeve 200 fixed at the distal end of the housing 178 has a proximate edge 202 pin

190 within the sleeve 200 and rotating housing 176.

the connected to the stationary bracket

180, the spring forces sta end 202 of flat contact 186.

[0083] contact 184 comprises .WO contacts

204,

206, each extending axially from the cavity

188 and each ben t inward to press against an exposed port ·&lt; /V brass sleeve 208 on the outside of the

Wires are

OH the proximate of the proximate end of the sleeve 208 to not.

the contacts 204, 206 .against the sleeve

When installed,

The far

208, solder enough between

186, electrical connection also exists between motor the wire

A d. jL nJ for completing the power circuit connected to the hot &lt;\r\ +· ·· sleeve point

214 on towards the of discussed below.

connection exists the

An the the

One of the wires and one is is connected of these conductive

-18CA 02801901 2012-12-06

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PCT/US2011/039473 members will be connected to the hot contact ar neutral contact at the stationary bracket 180, which is determined in advance.

[0085]

The rotating the same purpose of the proximate end the end cap

A

3. v * ly extending cup-shaped cavity

220 in housing

76, -which opens towards its distal end 173, is radially large enough to enable the contacts

204, 206 to flex [0086]

The cavity 220 .15 a 11 ow for axial play between the rotating housing and stationary bracket 176,

180 to account for varia tiens in which is a of the reason, the crass sieeve

208, distal from the solder pein

214 for the wire

212, that ;»% F' K z&gt;

k/ K i,44TZ depth of

220 the he niu

190 to the flat contact 136, accounts for the same variations in axial pray

Accordingly, the above capable of powering a roller blind motor without hard opening

This configuration enables installing and removing easi.iv than with typical connections [0088]

WINDOW-SIZED UNITARY SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTOR

<img file="CA2801901C_D0009.tif" />

is pass!ve system 230 comprising two sealed cavities 232,

S«4.; :1-5.:

234, where the first sealed cavity is

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PCT/US2011/039473

V«.‘ Λ

234 is on the exterior side

V.·' X.

not to he confused with con-anon purposes, where each cavity is configured primarily to achieve . In this unit, the first cavity noble gas 236, krypton, etc., and The second cavity 234 is filled and sealed, and is the thermal pie glazing, the interior cavity achieve an optimal thermal thermal resistivity (R value) 232 is typically filled with a is the insulating component, with an aqueous medium 238 storage component. Tn this tr is configured primarily to capacitance (C value).

<td> [0090] Spacers 240 in</td><td> the first</td><td colspan="2"> . cavity</td><td> 232 contain</td><td> kA.</td>

<td> desiccant while ordinarily</td><td> spacers 242</td><td> in</td><td> the</td><td> second cavity ;</td><td> &gt;34</td>

<td> would not. Spacers 240</td><td> 1 r, r b. a. f i</td><td> rst</td><td> cavi</td><td> ,ty 232 would</td><td> he</td>

<td> designed to minimize heat</td><td> flow, while</td><td> that</td><td> is</td><td> less important</td><td> in</td>

the second cavity 234.

<td> [0091] The</td><td> outer,</td><td> or first,</td><td> lite 244 is typically</td><td> glass of a</td>

<td> low iron type</td><td> to maxi</td><td> mize solar</td><td> gain. The #3 surface</td><td> has a low-</td>

<td> e coating on</td><td> it, so</td><td> that the .</td><td> second lite 246 is a .</td><td> low-e type.</td>

<td> The inner, or</td><td> third 1</td><td> ite 248 is</td><td> a standard clear, or i</td><td> s tinted.</td>

The aqueous medium 238 is hydrogel which has cohesion to adhere to the #4 and surfaces, which are separated fay the spacer 242, where the spacer is attached r&lt;

r /· urface •Z an acrylic ve. As compared with a foam spacer, a spacer otherwise

He become trapped ,'T·. : : I ,1

VW kA J. 'Z

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PCT/US2011/039473 migrate into the gel space, which could adversely impact the performance of the system.

[0093] regarding the aqueous medium, such medium for this purpose would be comprised primarily cf sodium polyacrylate and water-a hydrogel in which water partially solidified between

j.n Such a hydrogel, water contained witnin a s ub s tant i a11y dilute r o s s 11 n k i n g s y s t em ex very little to steady state

Suet a hydrogel could be filled into the cavity n a degassed .i quid

Furthermore, microencapsulated phase change material could be added to the hydrogel to boost its heat capacity.

[0094]

A product containing the suitable cohesion and UV characteris cs is manufactured esistive panels

SAFTT

FIRST manufactures a p

11-XL (one hundred and twenty manufactured form, this produc fire rn are he iPTPCT, of Can a- J. ( X

<td> Francisco, CA, USA.</td><td> Spec</td><td> ifical</td>

<td> oduct under the name</td><td> of</td><td> Superb</td>

<td> minute rating). In</td><td></td><td> typica</td>

<td> t has a thickness of</td><td> just</td><td> 1 1//</td>

7/ te llv h inches and is clear.

While the the SuperLite

II-XL oroduct to be relatively serviceable, SA.FTI

FIRST modified he SuperLi request of the of application inventors, in the present invention by provide the following characteristics wherein the numbering is not cha racteristic:

ii; an

!.7\

80t water content; (2} of between 120 degrees level aqueous importance gel 1 1/4” thick

4-*

OL with any one least an aqueous gel with

Fahrenheit and 160 mechan ical stability

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PCT/US2011/039473 (3) an aqueous gel with UV stability capable nours in a QUV chamber witho· yellowing or discoloring or the of bubbles

Z·· XA voids; (4) an aqueous gel with a thermal such, that no yerlowing /-χ ν'

L/.j» discoloring happens during repeated cycling

Γ or temperatures between 40 degrees Fahrenheit and degrees

Fahrenheit; and (5} an aqueous gel that is adhered to the is supported by the glass

Tv. .l-AA addition, the fi ire retardants were not added to the formula, nave

This resulting product proved to be well suited for the applicat of the disclosed embodiments because of , for example, ts relative

Uv stabil ity suitable glass for the second lite

246 is a tempered

Pilkington

Energy Advantage(TM) 1 obtainable , Toledo,

Ohio,

USA.

Pilkington Energy Advantage(TM) designed to and a high solar [0097] obtainable from PPG which can he converted into usable heat lite 243 comprises PPG Graylite-Fourteen,

In , Harmarville, PA, USA. The

PPG Graylite, as compared to the other 11 tes in the passive heating system 230, absorbs a incoming energy, and infrared.

used for te 246, the

PPG Graylite blocks a s i gn i f1 can t amount of UV energy so as to prevent fabrics from fading.

absorpt to further heat the be stored the gel for

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PCT/US2011/039473 ·» it also serves to minimize the sunwashing effect, di scussed ear.l .1 er.

[0098] •A to

Gr ey1ight-Fourteen for sunwashing control would be to tint itself with silver nitrate, which readily mixes with water and forms or colloidal silver particles may be added in appropriate amounts to the aqueous polymerizable solution used to fill the cavity 234 between lit.es

246, 248.

With the gel 238 adhering to the or cavity

234, can be manufactured same size as, a large heat large sealed alternative water were requiring g .Lass.

I. U Û10 ‘J j lire 244 size. Since and integral w storage cavity elements, seals, the

4· h

Lal/ appearance, and mi ted in size sealed is the the heat storage cavity, enables the use of an

232. This minimizes the the risk for thermal shorts

Th blocks having equal l.y numbe costs, an containing and in height to about two feet, an extensive array of dividers and separate

Turning to the insulating cavity 232, a suitable first would be solar heat gain of seven-tenths or greater and preferably about nine-tenths.

Pilkington Optiwhite, low iron grass can

The Pilkington first lite 244 in the passive heat system 230.

ii.e., it is ultra clear) and high solar heat transmittance, and t is sealable

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PCT/US2011/039473 [00101] The spacer

240 between the •f ' r « i

«. ... J. W V.

lite 244 and the

A /»·

Z4:b is a

Super (TM) type

Cambridge, Ohio, OSA

The spacer

240 is engineered, all foam, and that is, sealed against the #2 and #3 surfaces) , warm edge spacer system that uses a high-perforraance acrylic adhesive for its primary seal, backed by a moisture vapor seal 250 [dis below) acting as a secondary seal.

The,¹ all foam construction .•X Λ the spacer 240 is window, providing an optimum thermal performance. Spacer 242 is manufactured from glass, a quarter an inch thick, silicone spacer typically available with the SuperLite product.

y%r ί k&gt; J. j ma r y seal that is also backed by a moisture varier seal 252 greater detail below] acting as a secondary seal.

[00102]

The size of spacing lites be t wee:

244 and

6

i.s subs t ant i a 11 y the in.

The a noble gas, sucn as argon an argon/krypton exter ior temperatures.

would be about one half three-eighths of an or one-quarter of an inch for xenon.

insulating cavity 232 is depth, with a correspondingly sized si spacer 240. Further, the typically

1/2 in depth, with a correspondingly sized spacer

250, 252 are provided about the perimeter of

234

The sealants are manufactured fram,

U z**

e.g·/ part silicone, po 1 y i sobu t y .1 ene butyl rubber), polyurethane,

S«4.

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PCT/US2011/039473

<img file="CA2801901C_D0010.tif" />

The sealant enables the spacers

240, 242 to make a firm, airtight seal.

embodiment of the thermal storage device, which is a quad glazing 254 (four

11tes) configured with two thermal.lv insulating cavities and one thermal storage cavity.

separately the IGU here, designed for colder climates, has two mu-s+- 4 _c &lt;A · » C* 'λ* «i. Xk* f

<td> sealed exterior-side</td><td> insulating cavities 256, 253 filled with</td>

<td> krypton or the like,</td><td> and one interior sealed cavity filled with</td>

the hydrogel 260.

<img file="CA2801901C_D0011.tif" />

<img file="CA2801901C_D0012.tif" />

*·&gt;(» same as the first embodiment and the third and forth .kites are

A ...A A the same as the second and third .kites in the first embodiment. The seals and spacers about the middle cavity would be the same as in the exterior insulating cavity while those about the interior cavity would be the same as those previously disclosed on the interior cavity.

The ow-e coating would be used on the ¢5 surface exist in this embodiment) for minimizing radiant heat loss and transferring solar energy efficiently to the thermal /nass in direct thermal connection with it.

[00106] ARRAY OF

13A-C, these figures are based on blocks the incorporated patent document.

a panel 270 of blocks from inside the

270 sits behind one or more layers of

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PCT/US2011/039473 risula ting glass,

e.g., glazing (in schematic Figure 13C&gt;, exnosure.

llustrat ion provides three stacked heating blocks 274,

276,

278, e.g., forming a partial of solar heating blocks

Such a partial stacked con f igura t ion through an installât;, lor

As disclosed herein, the blocks interlock will one another to

270 as a whole [00108] The glazing 272 and panel 270 are mounted in a common frame 280 (in schematic Figure 13C), where the panel 2’?0 is flanked between glass stops, e.g., and block stops, e.g., opposing side edges as well as opposing top and bottom edges (not. illustrated) .

As «·* «·\ *\ o ¢5 UWw / the stops

282, 284 r\ be made of wood and positioned witt ensure structural integrity.

reasons discussed below, the top op would be removably [0-0109] Each solar heating block comprises a block body having in two vertice planes, facing section

28S, middle section 290 and an internally facing section

292.

The block body, including all sections, is molded plastic, such as an acrylic plastic, and the sections are hea welded or cuter weld seams

294, 296, to produce a watertight connection.

[00110]

More specifically, the exterior and middle sections are formed from clear «

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PCT/US2011/039473 maximum transmission of energy from the low-e glazing disposed λ-f block.

formed from translucent/white white transmission of visible light i on s formed with a relatively sm al 1 block body, when assembled, forms cavity water fed through an opening 298 in a corner of the middle section 290 of the is degrees of time (e.g., typical room pressure, until di ssolved gas in he water has been brought sti 1.1

298 is sealed.

relatively small amount of air to degassing.

bubbles will form

Ther:

found in a wh 11 e that a block manufactured this way.

[00112] Regarding the water, a light diffusing agent mav be used to color the water white or

This provides a pleasant affect when viewed through the translucent/white clastic.

Furthermore, antimicrobial agents chloride) or calcium chloride, which function botr and n addition, distilled water may be used to minimize the mineral, and microbial content of the water being

<img file="CA2801901C_D0013.tif" />

Weight of the water the size of the block body.

<td> Accordingly,</td><td> with a</td><td colspan="2"> generally square body of perhaps</td><td> eight to</td>

<td> twelve inches</td><td> on a s</td><td> ide (in a front</td><td> view), a total th:</td><td> lokness of</td>

<td> three to six</td><td> inches</td><td> is acceptable. -27-</td><td> Otherwise, the</td><td> block may</td>

S«4.; :::3.:

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PCT/US2011/039473

<img file="CA2801901C_D0014.tif" />

and may generate a large become overly heavy and hydrostatic pressure which could result in a leak.

<td> [00114]</td><td> Each</td><td> block</td><td> includes</td>

<td> (four on</td><td> top,</td><td> four on</td><td> bottom],</td>

<td> into the</td><td> slot</td><td> s are 1</td><td> shaped</td>

<td> into and</td><td> GVît</td><td> of the</td><td> slots</td>

Accordingly,

<td colspan="2"> eight T-slotted sockets or</td><td> feet,</td>

<td> e.g., 300, 302, 304,</td><td> 306.</td><td> Fitted</td>

<td> peg connectors 309,</td><td> which</td><td> extend</td>

<td> by about a quarter</td><td> of an</td><td> inch.</td>

-f each I-peg connector can connect in a matrix of blocks.

The I-peg connectors are softer than the block material, and the flexibility of the I-peg connectors provides relationship between blocks in adjacent columns and aligns blocks disposed in a common row.

[00115] A forward 1 .ID

308 of the exterior facing section 288 and a rearward lip 310 of tiie middle section extend outwardly to the the he ear rear is middle against i n the plan area as covered sectional shape of a surface the rear

312 of on the the oris middle sect the front side

The by the feet 300-306

U is created

That io and the front surface t' hi*

318, or the and feet in the are of the front lip 308 e front while the ee surface 314 of the rear lip 310.

[00116] It. is to be

316 of the forward block section 288, the middle section 290 ano forward section have the same shape and can therefore be manufactured from molds having essentially the same shape.

to the similar structural configurations, an installer need

Due no be concerned with the top or bottom orientation of the blocks during assembly of the panel. -28SU4.; :1-5.:

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PCT/US2011/039473 due to the fil can

V-44 of

<td> figurations</td><td> with</td>

<td> 1 hole 298</td><td> can</td>

<td> face 318 of</td><td> the</td>

<td> the forward</td><td> bloc.</td>

<td> occur befor</td><td> e or</td>

the front be drilled ;k section, (not after the block and middle

11ustrated} sections are

OGA £ p \} y the of the side

320

Such dril i ng manufactured.

[001.13] The rear section 292 has a constant plan area, e.g., when viewing from the rear, 'which covers the plan area defined by the cuter edges of the lips 308, 310. As such, side surfaces of the rear section, e.g., vertical surface 326 and horizontal

<td colspan="2"> surface 32 Θ, are welded</td><td> to the outer</td><td> edges</td><td> of the rear lip,</td>

<td> e.g., ve r 11 ca 1 edge</td><td> 330</td><td> and horizontal</td><td> edge</td><td> 33.2, forming the</td>

<td> rear weld seam 29c.</td><td> The</td><td> combination of</td><td> : these</td><td> outer side edges</td>

<td> and surfaces provide</td><td> the</td><td> block with a</td><td> sturdy</td><td> surface suitable</td>

<td> for stacking purposes</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td>

[00119]

When installed, rayer of feet the top row f blocks is not equipped of

I-pegs disassemble the block panel, the top block stop is unscrewed and removed.

Then, each block in the top row of block s is lifted, one by one,

UH unti .1 the block clears the

4· layer of feet in the mmediately lower row os blocks

T-h Λ. V be appreciated that « certain space is required above the to achieve

That space by he top block stop.

To remove the side blocks in the top row, the adjacent blocks are lifted and removed, and hen the lifted, removed.

Sliding to the center is required to clear the vertical (side)

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PCT/US2011/039473 [00120]

A heat-absorbing mask 334 can be adhered to the exterior side of each block, before assembly of the paner

The heat·· absorbing one side and white, or some other light the

The area perforations take niasK, so represented by percent of the so that the faces or light

As such, the to fifty that the is between fifty while the coloring [00121 percent of area ano n/N :· *4X7 X.

is oriented the low-e glazing, while th trie white heat-absorbing mask absorbs light energy white surface dims the light, and both occur without the light

SELF-CORRECTING TRACK-BASED FRAME STRUCTURE

J

<td> [00122] As</td><td> indicated,</td><td> the presen</td>

<td> to a unitary</td><td> assembly</td><td> for an arc!</td>

<td> provides dyn</td><td> amic solar</td><td> heat gain</td>

<td> embodiments</td><td> include a</td><td> track-base</td>

<td> combination</td><td colspan="2"> in which enables the</td>

<td> should the b</td><td> lind mater.</td><td> ial .1.6 fa.1.1.</td>

<td> track. One</td><td> such frame</td><td> assembly i</td>

<td> starting with</td><td> Figures 1«</td><td> t-17.</td>

control.

s frame i tectural blind to or be pu document is fenest ratVarious be

A ·&gt;· [00123]

The assembly from aluminum, includes directed ion, which disclosed and blind self-correcting, ed outside of the

400 includes a frame 402, a header housing 402

On is made opposing internal sidewalls of the brackets for removably mounting blind motor, disclosed above.

A removable faceplate 408 is provi ded as a protect ive e1ement for enclosing

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PCT/US2011/039473 the header housing 402.

The faceplate 408 can be clipped to exterior surfaces of the housing.

vertically downwardly facing channel 410 at top-exterior edge 412, adapted a channel 414 of the same shape and o r i enta ti on a t the of the faceplate 408 second channel

414 n that it smaller and therefore capable of fitting within the [001.25] When the faceplate is installed, the bottom edge of the faceplate rests on pegs an the housing (not illustrated), he figure.

t rest, the the housing ^Z*6 4. V * the

410, 414 enables away from the pegs during i nstal l.ation and r exaova 1. Dur i n g r emo va 1, for:

example, the pitching the faceplate faceplate [00126] away from the housing from the housing.

such that exterior surfaces of and thereafter removing the

404 base for seating the faceplate 408.

The faceplate 408 is large so its bat toxa edge 420 extends below a bottera surface 422 of the [00127] The header housing 404 has an top member 426, extending, rearward, e.g., essentially horizontal towards the interior of the opening, frora its top edge 412. -31At a rear edge of the

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PCT/US2011/039473 top member

428, the header housing 404 turns downward at a right angle. A rear-ver tical member point 9 32 at which it turns forward with a curvature that

The amount of drop

Ί J. &gt;4 the rear surface 430 and the location of curved surface

434

<img file="CA2801901C_D0015.tif" />

retracted.

[001.23] Forward of the toward the front (exterior) of the neager an additional curved surf y a guar ter-round surface 436, alignment guide 436 is the which the installed bl guide 436, is [00129]

436 is alignment guide part of the material 16 process header «aï ·» 4· p, Λ 4. X. 1 Λ throughout the

The intermediate surface the housing wit·· inclined downwardly towards the the blind material 16 over

438 transverse during operation of the blind.

tracks

442,

444 such that guide

b.l. 1 nd material tracks 442, 444 addition, pair of opposing vertical guioes, e.g., guide tracks. The guides,

e.g., guide

446, each other, into ,O toward the respective blind material widthwise the opposing are mirror images of the housing 404 rear edge 448 is rounded in the housing,

e.g.,

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PCT/US2011/039473 [00130] Extending rearward transverse alignment guide 436 with a rearward overhang 454 The bottom rail overhang 454 the bottom rail, but not into The bottom rail overhang 454 from the forward tip of the is a stop-surface 452 for mating integrated into the bottom rail, extends between opposing ends of the tracts 442, 444 (Figure 16) . extends .rearward, past the drop

452 with the overhang

454 defines the maximum vertical retraction

I0 (Figure 17&gt;

/) .

overhang

454 is essentially at the bottom edge 24 of the blind material allowing maximum etraction

A λ J. V Vthe header [0Û131j

Turning more specifically to the

444, bottom of the tracks is defined by the bottom exterior f r ame of the enable fully covering a square channel, with opposing openings 460, 462.

Centers of the openings are in-line with the vertical drop of the blind material 16 and are large enough to fit elongated, widthwise vertically extending stems 464, 466 of I shaped track guides 468, 470 disposed within a matching elongated C channel 472 in the bottom rail. The interior cavity in each track C channel is large enough to fit heads of the T shaped and gu ide the bottom rail.

2 4 du ring windi ng and unwindina operations

<td> [00132]</td><td> The top end</td><td> 476</td><td> of t</td>

<td> 424 w. s</td><td> formed so that</td><td> it</td><td> does</td>

<td> in the</td><td> header housing</td><td> 4 04.</td><td> Art v&gt;*</td>

bottom end 478 of the channel he channel 472 in rhe bottom rail not contact the stop-surface 452 the oilier hand, as indicated, the in the bottom rail 424 includes

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PCT/US2011/039473 the rearward overhang 454 which contacts the stop-surface 452 in the header housing 404.

This defines the maximum retraction of the blind into decoration purposes, and for allowing water and fall off the bottom rail 424, the front segment

480 of the bottom rail 424 is smaller two segments, is curved to ustrated and 15-21, opposing side segments notched so that these segments along with the roller blind material 16, travel in the tracks 442, 444 along with the blind material 16 is wider, and the louvers are longer, bottom rail 424. It be appreciated t’ A VaaQ x.

is as long material 16 is wioe.

[00135]

The above structure, with a glazing on rearward side 488,

490 of the track channels, combines to in which is self-correcting material pulls out or direction.

For example, in Figure i o 4· y blind material segment 492 the track while segment that the blind material 16 will not bunch-up anywhere along the width o the blind material during winding.

:00136] Once the blind material 16 has been wound past the level where it has come out of the track, which

-34mav be at the

4:«4.

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PCT/US2011/039473 rigure bottom rail 424, the conf ig arat ion would have been blind material. 16 win nave been fullv realigned

That is, as

Figure 21, once the motor actives unwind the blind material

16, the material

S’ ,1. Ό Will from the roller tube

14, over the transverse alignment guide 436, and between side alignment guides, and th ereafter properly reenters the track

Accordingly, blind material 16 unwound at the tracks.

transparent member door, can and whic·' disclosed be other be positioned would provide embodiments appreciated, a substantially the same planar a storm the rear of the track members [00133j

THE UNITARY ASSEMBLY - THE SUPPORT

<td> [00139]</td><td> Turning to Figures</td><td> 22 and 23,</td><td> tne</td><td> cxv t· y « ,'N r X.- Λ χ. ν» — x *&gt; X</td><td> face of the</td>

<td> support</td><td> frame 402 includes</td><td colspan="2"> front surfaces</td><td> 498, 500,</td><td> which are</td>

<td> forward</td><td> of the tracks, 442,</td><td> 444, are</td><td> copl</td><td> anar and *</td><td> extend away</td>

from each other. The front frame surfaces 498, 500 are connected to the opposing front surfaces of the tracks 442, 444 by respective angled trim/facia surfaces 502, 504.

001.40]

The span of the front surfaces surfaces 506, 508, which extend rearward assemblies

<td> 498,</td><td> 500, is such</td><td> as to</td>

<td> 400</td><td> to connect c</td><td> :n end</td>

<td> at</td><td> substantially</td><td> right</td>

, 500.

<img file="CA2801901C_D0016.tif" />

are provided for receiving four insulating rectangular wooden

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PCT/US2011/039473 frame members 510, v,

522, 524 on the interior side of the unitarv stractu.r?e wo nose

508 and extend to rear facing surfaces 488, 490 third at perpend ic ular angle t-A the bottom exterior frame 456 of the frame 402 of these surfaces 516 is connected to of the housing 404, approximately where the r earwara surrace

434 meets the vertical interior member

430 of the header housing

Each of these rearward facing surfaces 510. 512,

514, 516 includes a projecting bracket

530,

532 which fits receiving channel (same location in in each frame .member 518, 520,

The are permanently adhered to each other

1.00142]

The cavity n the opposing frame members

518,

520, mo

i.

as well as internally exposed surfaces of the track

442

444 an id header housing 402, defines the volume for tne grazings components, introduced above and

The in alternative embodiments, below the size of the glazings so that the in insulating foam fill 536.

provided in the area rearward helps to keep horiz

Additional insulatin

<td> ig foam</td><td> 53δ is</td>

<td> above</td><td> the top</td>

<td> ontal</td><td> the too</td>

frame member 524.

he each disclosed surfaces of the ill surface of the fir?

4» «Λ lite

490. The glazing compound connects face the of the it 1 lite, at top and bottom ends, to a downwardly extending lip 540, -36S«4.; :1-3.:

CA 02801901 2012-12-06

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PCT/US2011/039473 connected to the rear edge extending lip

542, bottom exterior frame

456 [00144 most) so which

t.A.

J

554,

546,

548,

544,

564, stops rectangular glass

Four substantially

<td> 550 are provided</td><td> and sized</td><td> such that ,</td><td> a forward face 552,</td>

<td colspan="2"> 556, 553 of the glass stops</td><td> sits at the</td><td> interior (rearward-</td>

<td> surface of the</td><td> glazings</td><td> and/or hea</td><td> t storage element,</td>

<td> ever is furthest</td><td> rearward.</td><td> Opposing</td><td> surfaces 560, 562,</td>

<td> 566 of the glass</td><td> stops are</td><td> countersunk</td><td> 568, 570, 572, 574</td>

<td> nat screws (same 1</td><td> Location'</td><td> can set the</td><td> glass stops to the</td>

surfaces of wooden framing members.

opposing [00145]

Rear

578, 580, 582 of ♦·

!.. a *V7 glass stops extend just beyond rear edges 584,

586,

588, of the frame members

518, 520, 522, 524 id are provided with edge profile, such as an

Ogee styled edge known in the so that decorative edge members, e.g., member

592,

These edge members are the frame components visible to the interior occupant and define the rearmost surface of the assembly.

can be utilized and rear facia members can be omitted [001461

The track and defines the basic unitary ame structure for an architectural fenestration [Guia i j in addition to the motor controls discussed above, thermostat can be provided on the provides the dynamic

S«4.

component of the objective which is to -37CA 02801901 2012-12-06

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PCT/US2011/039473 provide dynamic heat gain to contre to an architectural fenestration.

[00148]

Sped f i cal 1 y, the thermostat would communicate unwind when the temperature in me room increases above an upper:

comfort level set point and wind the blind when the temperature in the room drops below a lower comfort level set point. By measuring the temperature in the room, the temperature of the therms 1 storage unit itself can reach a much higher level. This

P enables the thermal storage unit to store more energy which be transferred to the room interior over a longer period /· , Φ \*· time.

[00149]

ALTERNAT IVE GLAZING

AND BI,IND CONFIGURAT TONS [00150] and blind configuration &lt;·* :¾ hl U be augmented as more aeneric also be ternative alternative reference to the accompanying gures.

[00151] [001.52]

According to one disclosed embodiment, the unitary assembly f\ v»

X x.’ 2.

an dynamic gain control, is that illustrated n Figures

This embodiment includes the above disclosed unitary frame and b motor, which .is controllable by a thermostat

-38CA 02801901 2012-12-06

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PCT/US2011/039473 [00153] The embodiment illustrated as a triple glazing. The particular triple glazing has essentially the same configuration and materials as utilized in the quad glazing configuration

254 disclosed n connection window-sized unitary solar [001541 this

260 configuration, as compared heat storage chamber 258, fourth lite with the #7 and g the disclosed ge ces. Accordingly, this embodiment will strongly heat space when sun hits it.

QI 1

AZING WITH TINTED INTERIOR [00156]

Turning this alternative configuration is same as n Figures

596 in previously disclosed. The primary rs is the interior lite, is inted. As compared with the previously disclose glazing 594, become very

K.or

This heat the interior space with less glare

TRIPLE GLAZING WITH

GENERIC ROLLER BLIND

Turning to Figures 24 and this alternative [00158]

<img file="CA2801901C_D0017.tif" />

the same as illustrated in Figures 14-17.

The same glazing 594 is utilized as well. The primary difference is the use of a generic -394:5$4.;-&gt;:5.·

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0, Other aspects of the blind are cons stent with the slatted blind.

For example, the bottom rail 424 size and function as with the the track guides,

e.g., 468.

[00159]

Utilizing the generic fiberglass blind could the loss of the se of the above disclosed embodiments

However, other stiffeners could be added to the blind 600 in the w dthwise direction to prevent bunching of ΐ tv-w of the blind and frame

<img file="CA2801901C_D0018.tif" />

FILL

<img file="CA2801901C_D0019.tif" />

161]

<img file="CA2801901C_D0020.tif" />

quad

As indicated, the glass stops

254 disclosed above.

R./1 4 /

<td> 546, 548, 550 are smaller t</td><td> o a ccommodate for</td><td> the</td><td> larger volume</td>

<td> in the cavity 534 taken up</td><td> by the glazing.</td><td> As</td><td> compared with</td>

<td> previously disclosed triple</td><td> glazing 594, the</td><td> gel</td><td> 260 will soak</td>

<td> up the heat and dissipate it</td><td> into the interior</td><td> over</td><td> time.</td>

AND

HEAT

ABSORBING MASK [001.63]

3.1 illustrate two embodiments which are configured with the triple glazing of Figures 29 and alone with the

2'K

13A-13C

In the embodiments, glass and block stops, e.g.,

282,

284 are screwed into the adiacent frame members.

above to top row of blocks is provided, enabling lifting the blocks -40S«4.; :1-5.:

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PCT/US2011/039473 for removal purposes.

In the configuration of Figures 28-29, the heat absorbing mask 334 is illustrated on the exterior side of the blocks.

In the configuration of Figures 30-31, the mask is on the interior surface of the interior

i.e., the #6

<img file="CA2801901C_D0021.tif" />

[00164] providing solar heat gain control, which: (1) provides a track-bas ed fr ame structure/bl.ind combination in which the blind is for the imiter swi tches and with a provides a heat storage un translucent sunny winter days is greater outside of the provides light allowed blind motor withou t qui ck-r e1ea s e s1i p-r i n g;

thermally gain from than nightt so provide supplemental heat [00165] The present invention may be embodied other specmc rorms without departing from its .1.

spirit or cha racteri st i cs

The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not as restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims and their combination in whole or in part rather than by the foregoing description. Ail changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.