TW202436745A - Operating system with cord-shrouding wand assembly for coverings for architectural structures and related coverings - Google Patents

Abstract

A covering for an architectural structure includes a covering element and an operating system configured to move the covering element between extended and retracted positions. The operating system comprising includes a drive assembly configured to rotationally drive the operating system in a first direction to move the covering element towards the retracted position, and a wand assembly including a first wand member and a second wand member. The second wand member is movable relative to the first wand member to rotationally drive the operating system in a second direction to move the covering element towards the extended position. The operating system also includes a cord having a first end coupled to a drive component of the operating system and a second end coupled to a portion of the second wand member.

Description

Operating system with rope-hidden rod assembly for covering of building structure and related covering

The present subject matter relates generally to coverings for building structures and, more particularly, to an operating system for a covering including a rope concealed rod assembly.

A wide variety of operating systems are known for moving a covering between its extended and retracted positions. As is generally understood, some operating systems incorporate at least one cord that must be manipulated by a user to adjust the operating state (extended/retracted) of the covering. For example, with a typical cord-based operating system, the user must pull down on the cord to move the covering toward its retracted position. In such an example, the cord must be retracted to allow the covering to move toward its extended position.

In recent years, various government regulations have been enacted and/or proposed to address access to and manipulation of operating cords used within a covering. For example, regulations are currently proposed that define restrictions or thresholds related to a user's ability to manipulate or access an operating cord. In this regard, one option that has been disclosed to address these issues is to provide a device that selectively surrounds or encloses an accessible portion of an operating cord. However, to date, the solutions proposed for selectively surrounding or enclosing an operating cord generally have one or more disadvantages and are generally limited in the type or range of operating systems in which the solutions can be used.

Therefore, an improved operating system that takes into account an enclosed or enclosed operating rope and solves one or more of the problems in the art would be welcome in the art.

Aspects and advantages of the subject matter of the invention will be partially described in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the subject matter of the invention.

In one aspect, the subject matter of the invention is directed to a covering for a building structure. The covering includes: a covering element that is movable between an extended position and a retracted position; and an operating system that is configured to move the covering element between the extended position and the retracted position. The operating system includes: a drive assembly that is configured to rotationally drive a component of the operating system in a first direction to move the covering element toward the retracted position; and a rod assembly that includes a first rod member and a second rod member. The second rod member is movable relative to the first rod member to rotationally drive the component of the operating system in a second direction to move the covering element toward the extended position. The operating system also includes a rope extending at least partially through both the first rod member and the second rod member, the rope having a first end coupled to a drive assembly of the operating system and a second end coupled to a portion of the second rod member. Additionally, the operating system is configured such that downward movement of the second rod member relative to the first rod member causes the assembly of the operating system to be rotationally driven in the second direction to move the covering element toward the extended position. Furthermore, when the drive assembly rotationally drives the assembly of the operating system in the first direction to move the covering element toward the retracted position, the second rod member moves upward relative to the first rod member.

In another aspect, the subject matter of the invention is directed to a covering for a building structure. The covering includes: a drum; a roller blind configured to be wound around and unwound from the drum; and an operating system configured to move the roller blind between an extended position and a retracted position. The operating system includes: a drive assembly configured to rotationally drive the drum in a first direction to move the covering element toward the retracted position; and a rod assembly including a first rod member and a second rod member. The second rod member is movable relative to the first rod member to rotationally drive the drum tube in a second direction to move the covering element toward the extended position. The operating system also includes a rope that at least partially extends through both the first rod member and the second rod member, the rope having a first end connected to a drive assembly of the operating system and a second end connected to a portion of the second rod member. The operating system is configured so that downward movement of the second rod member relative to the first rod member causes the drum tube to be rotationally driven in the second direction, causing the roller blind to unwind from the drum tube to move the covering element toward the extended position. In addition, when the drive assembly rotationally drives the drum tube in the first direction so that the roller shutter is wound around the drum tube to move the covering element toward the retracted position, the second rod member moves upward relative to the first rod member.

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the subject matter of the invention will be better understood by referring to the following embodiments and the attached claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the subject matter of the invention and are used together with the description to explain the principles of the subject matter of the invention.

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts that are further described in the following embodiments in a simplified form. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to help determine the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Cross-reference to related applications

This application is based on and claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application No. 63/429,785 filed on December 2, 2022, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

In general, the present subject matter relates to an operating system including a rope-and-hide wand assembly configured for use with a covering for an architectural feature or structure (referred to herein as an architectural "structure" for convenience and not limitation). In some embodiments, the covering includes a covering element and an operating system configured to move the covering element between an extended position and a retracted position.

In one embodiment, the operating system includes a drive assembly and a rod assembly. The drive assembly is configured to rotationally drive a component of the operating system in a first direction so that the covering element moves toward the retracted position. The rod assembly includes a first rod member and a second rod member, wherein the second rod member is movable relative to the first rod member to rotationally drive the component of the operating system in a second direction so that the covering element moves toward the extended position. The operating system also includes a rope that at least partially extends through both the first rod member and the second rod member. In one embodiment, the rope has a first end connected to a drive assembly of the operating system and a second end connected to a portion of the second rod member.

In one embodiment, the operating system is configured so that downward movement of the second rod member relative to the first rod member causes the component of the operating system to be rotationally driven in the second direction to move the covering element toward the extended position. In addition, the second rod member is configured to move upward relative to the first rod member when the drive assembly rotationally drives the component of the operating system in the first direction to move the covering element toward the retracted position.

In one embodiment, the covering is configured as a roller blind. In such an embodiment, the covering may include a roller blind and a drum that can be rotated in the first direction to roll the roller blind around the drum and can be rotated in the second direction to unwind the roller blind from the drum. The drive assembly may be configured to interact with the drum to rotationally drive the drum in the first direction to retract the roller blind. Similarly, the rod assembly may be configured to interact with the drum to rotationally drive the drum in the second direction to extend the roller blind. For example, in one embodiment, the rod assembly may interact with the drum tube via an operating rope of the operating system and an associated winding mechanism.

In one embodiment, the winding mechanism may include a bobbin coupled to the drum tube to rotate with the drum tube, wherein a portion of the rope is wound around the bobbin, so that downward movement of the second rod member relative to the first rod member causes the winding mechanism to rotationally drive the drum tube in the first direction. Additionally, in one embodiment, the winding mechanism further includes a drum coupling coupling the bobbin to the drum tube to rotate with the drum tube.

In one embodiment, the operating system further includes a locking mechanism configured to prevent the drive assembly from rotationally driving the component of the operating system in the first direction. In one embodiment, the locking mechanism is configured to be associated with the drive member, such as by being configured as a drum lock mechanism of the drive assembly. In another embodiment, the locking mechanism is configured to be associated with the rod assembly, such as by being configured as a twist-lock locking mechanism (e.g., a cam lock mechanism or a tab-based lock mechanism). In yet another embodiment, the locking mechanism is configured to be associated with the operating rope, such as by being configured as a friction-based locking mechanism (e.g., a one-way winch-type locking mechanism).

In one embodiment, a drive assembly (e.g., a winding mechanism) of the operating system can be coupled to an end support assembly. In one embodiment, the end support assembly includes a bearing support member configured to support the drive assembly for rotation relative to the drive assembly. Additionally, in one embodiment, the end support assembly further includes a support bracket coupled to the bearing support member. In one embodiment, the rod assembly can be pivotally coupled to the support bracket to allow the rod assembly to pivot relative to the cover element. In one embodiment, the support bracket is rotatably coupled to the bearing support member to allow the rod assembly to pivot relative to the cover element via relative rotation provided between the support bracket and the bearing support member.

In one embodiment, the rod assembly is configured as a telescopic rod assembly. In such an embodiment, the second rod member is arranged to be in a telescopic configuration with the first rod member. In another embodiment, the rod assembly has a non-telescopic configuration.

It should be understood that while the present subject matter will be generally described herein with respect to a roller-based covering, in other embodiments, the covering may be configured as any other suitable type of covering, such as any suitable stacking type shade (e.g., a honeycomb shade). For example, the disclosed operating system may be used with a non-roller-based covering that includes a shaft-based tightening system (e.g., via a lifting shaft or rod). Specifically, in such embodiments, the drive assembly may be configured to rotate the lifting shaft/rod of the operating system in the first direction to move the covering element toward the retracted position. Additionally, the rod assembly can be configured to interact with the lift shaft/rod to allow the rod assembly to be used to rotationally drive the lift shaft/rod of the operating system in the second direction to move the covering element toward the extended position. For example, the rod assembly can interact with the lift shaft/rod via an operating rod of the operating system and an associated winding mechanism. For example, the winding mechanism can be coupled to the lift shaft/rod such that downward movement of the second rod member relative to the first rod member causes the winding mechanism to rotationally drive the lift shaft/rod in the second direction to move the covering element toward the extended position.

It should also be understood that, as described herein, "embodiments" (such as those shown in the accompanying figures) may refer to illustrative representations of environments or articles or components that can provide or embody the disclosed concepts or features, or to representations of only the means by which the concepts or features can be provided or embodied. However, such illustrated embodiments should be understood as examples (unless otherwise stated), and other ways of embodying the described concepts or features, as can be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art after understanding such concepts or features from this disclosure, are within the scope of this disclosure. In addition, it will be understood that although the accompanying drawings may show one or more embodiments of concepts or features together in a single embodiment incorporating such concepts or features in an environment, article, or assembly, it will be understood that such concepts or features (unless otherwise stated) are independent and separate from each other and are shown together for convenience and are not intended to be limited to existence or use together. For example, a feature illustrated or described as part of one embodiment may be used alone or together with another embodiment to provide yet another embodiment. Therefore, it is intended that the subject matter of the present invention cover such modifications and variations that come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Referring now to the drawings, Figures 1 and 2 illustrate perspective views of one embodiment of a covering 10 for a building structure in accordance with aspects of the subject matter of the present invention. Specifically, Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of the covering 10 with its covering elements in a retracted position, and Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of the covering with its covering elements in an extended position.

In the illustrated embodiment, the covering 10 is configured as a roller blind including a covering element (e.g., a shade 14) that is configured to be wound around and unwound from a corresponding roller 24 (shown in hidden lines) to move the shade 14 between its extended position and a retracted position. Specifically, by rotating the roller 24 in a first or retracting direction, the shade 14 can be wound around the roller 24 to move the shade 14 toward the retracted position (FIG. 1). Similarly, by rotating the roller in a second or extending direction opposite to the first direction, the shade 14 can be unwound from the roller 24 to move the shade 14 to the extended position (FIG. 2).

As shown in FIG1 , the shade 14 may define a front side 26, a rear side 28, and a center plane P therebetween. The center plane P may be defined by a longitudinal direction of the shade 14 and a longitudinal or transverse direction of the shade 14. It should be understood that, as shown in FIG1 , the longitudinal direction of the shade 14 corresponds to a vertical direction V, and the longitudinal or transverse direction of the shade 14 corresponds to a horizontal direction H. The covering 10 further defines a transverse direction T that is orthogonal to the center plane P.

1, the shade 14 can include a weighted counterweight member 30 at the end of the shade 14. The weighted counterweight member 30 can bias the shade 14 downward and help ensure that the extended portion of the shade 14 is suspended in a desired manner. For example, the counterweight member 30 can droop the end of the shade 14 so that the extended portion of the shade 14 is suspended generally in the vertical direction V.

The covering 10 may also include a mounting assembly 12 for mounting various covering-related components relative to an adjacent building structure. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the mounting assembly includes a first bracket or support 16 positioned at a first end 18 of a drum tube 24 and a second bracket or support 20 positioned at a second end 22 of the drum tube 24 such that the drum tube 24 is located between the first bracket 16 and the second bracket 20. As is generally understood, the brackets 16, 20 may be configured to mount to a window frame or other suitable building structure to support the covering 10 relative to the structure.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the covering 10 also includes an operating system 100 for raising and lowering the shade 14 and locking the shade 14 in place. Specifically, as will be described below, the operating system 100 may include one or more components configured to rotationally drive the roller 24 in a first or retracted direction to move the shade 14 toward the retracted position ( FIG. 1 ), and one or more components configured to rotationally drive the roller 24 in a second or extended direction to move the shade 14 toward the extended position ( FIG. 2 ). Additionally, the operating system 100 may include one or more components configured to lock the shade 14 in place so as to maintain the shade 14 in a desired position relative to an adjacent building structure.

As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the operating system 100 includes a drive assembly 101 that is at least partially configured to rotate the operating system 100 in a first or retracted direction to move the shade 14 toward the retracted position. As will be described below, the drive assembly 101 can be configured as a spring-based drive assembly located within the drum tube 24. In one embodiment, the drive assembly 101 can be configured to interact with the drum tube 24 in a manner that allows the drive assembly 101 to rotate the drive tube 24 in the first or retracted direction. In addition, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the operating system 100 also includes an operating cord 102 (shown as a hidden cord) that is disposed or at least partially enclosed/encapsulated within a handle or stick assembly 104 of the operating system 100. In some embodiments, the cord-hidden wand assembly 104 can be configured at least in part to rotationally drive the operating system 100 in the second or extended direction to move the shade 14 toward the extended position. For example, as will be described below, the wand assembly 104 can be configured to interface with the drum tube 24 (e.g., via the operating cord 102 and associated winding mechanism 114 ( FIG. 3 ) of the operating system 100) in a manner that allows the wand assembly 104 to rotationally drive the drum tube 24 in the second or extended direction.

3, a partially exploded perspective view of an exemplary operating system 100 is illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter. As shown, the operating system 100 includes a spring-based drive assembly 101 configured to be located within the drum tube 24. In one embodiment, the drive assembly 101 includes a fixed shaft 106 (e.g., by being anchored to a fixed component of the cover 10, such as the second bracket 20 of the mounting assembly 12 or any other fixed component), a helically wound torsion spring 108, and a drum lock mechanism 110 located within the drum tube 24 or otherwise disposed in operative association with the drum tube 24. In such an embodiment, the torsion spring 108 may, for example, have one end coupled (e.g., via a spring plug or plate 112) to rotate with the drum tube 24 and an opposite end coupled to the fixed shaft 106. Thus, the torsion spring 108 may be configured to be wound around the shaft 106 to store energy when the drum tube 24 rotates in one direction, and then release the stored energy to rotationally drive the drum tube 24 in the opposite direction. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the spring 108 can be configured to store energy when the roller tube 24 is rotated in the second or extension direction to extend the shade 14, and can be configured to release this stored energy to rotationally drive the roller tube 24 in the first or retraction direction to retract the shade 14.

In one embodiment, the roller lock mechanism 110 can be, for example, coupled between the fixed shaft 106 and the roller tube 24 to selectively engage the roller tube 24 with the shaft 106 to lock the tube 24 in place when the shade 14 is moved to a desired position, thereby preventing the roller tube 24 from further rotation until the user provides a downward operating force to the roller tube 24 (e.g., by pulling the rod assembly 104 downward) to disengage or unlock the roller tube 24 from the shaft 106. In one embodiment, the roller lock mechanism 110 can be configured as a clutch assembly that provides selective engagement between the shaft 106 and the roller tube 24. An example of a clutch assembly suitable for use as a drum lock mechanism is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 10,815,727 (Dubina et al.), the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

3, the operating system 100 also includes an operating cord 102 (shown as a hidden cord) disposed or at least partially enclosed/enclosed within a cord-hidden wand assembly 104, wherein the wand assembly 104 is configured to interact with the drum tube 24 via the operating cord 102 and associated winding mechanism 114 of the operating system 100. In one embodiment, the winding mechanism 114 can be supported via an end support assembly 119 to rotate relative to an adjacent mounting bracket (e.g., bracket 16) of the mounting assembly 12, thereby allowing the winding mechanism 114 to rotate with the drum tube 24. The structure and function of the winding mechanism 114 and the wand assembly 104 will be described in more detail below with reference to Figures 4-6B. However, in general, the operating rope 102 may be coupled to a movable portion of the wand assembly 104 at one end and to the winding mechanism 114 at an opposite end, wherein a section of the rope 102 is wrapped around a portion of the winding mechanism 114 in a manner that allows the winding mechanism 114 to be rotationally driven by the rope 102 in a second or extension direction when a downward force is applied thereto (i.e., via the movable portion of the wand assembly 104). In other words, with the winding mechanism 114 coupled to the drum tube 24 to rotate therewith, the movable portion of the rod assembly 104 can be pulled downward to rotationally drive the drum tube 24 in a second direction, thereby causing the shade 14 to unwind from the tube 24 and move toward its extended position.

Referring now to FIG. 4 , an exploded perspective view of an exemplary winding mechanism 114 positioned relative to an associated end support assembly 119 and a rod assembly 104 of an operating system 100 is illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter. As shown in FIG. 4 , the winding mechanism 114 includes an inner bobbin 116 and an outer drum coupler 118, wherein the drum coupler 118 is configured to couple to both the bobbin 116 and the drum tube 24 for rotation therewith. In one embodiment, the bobbin 116 may extend axially through the drum coupler 118, wherein a portion of the bobbin 116 is coupled to or rotationally engaged with a corresponding portion of the coupler 118 to allow such components to rotate together. 4, keyways or ribs may be provided along the outer periphery of the drum coupler 118 to allow this assembly to rotationally engage the drum tube 24. For example, the keyways of the coupler 118 may be received within corresponding features defined within the interior of the drum tube 24 to rotationally couple the assemblies together.

In several embodiments, the first end 128 of the rope 102 can be configured to attach to a portion of the winding mechanism 114. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the first end 128 of the rope 102 is configured to connect to the coupler 118 of the winding mechanism 114, such as by inserting the end 128 through an opening 118A defined through the coupler 118 and then tying a knot or securing the end 128 with a grommet to prevent the end from passing back through the opening 118A. Additionally, a section of the rope 102 extending from the end 128 can be configured to be wrapped or wound around the spool 116 (e.g., as shown in exploded form in FIG. 4 and in assembled form in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 5B ). For example, with the bobbin 116 mounted within the drum coupler 118, the rope 102 may be wound around the bobbin 116 with a given number of windings within the radial space defined between the outer surface of the bobbin 116 and the inner surface of the drum coupler 118. Such winding of the rope 102 around the bobbin 116 may facilitate rotationally driving the winding mechanism 114 in the second or extension direction when the rope 102 is pulled downwardly through the rod assembly 104 (as will be described below). Specifically, as the rope 102 is pulled downward, the winding mechanism 114 can be rotationally driven in the second or extension direction as the rope 102 is unwound or otherwise untied from the reel 116, which in turn rotationally drives the drum 24 in the second direction to move the shade 14 toward the extended position. Rotating the drum 24 in the opposite direction (i.e., in the first or retraction direction) by operating the spring-based drive assembly 101 can cause the rope 102 to be rewound around the reel 116 while moving the shade 14 toward its retracted position.

As indicated above, the winding mechanism 114 can be coupled to (and supported for rotation relative to) an adjacent mounting bracket (e.g., bracket 16 in FIG. 3 ) of the covering 10 via an end support assembly 119. As shown in FIG. 4 , the end support assembly 119 can include a support bracket 124 and a bearing support plate or member 125 coupled to the support bracket 124. The bearing support member 125 can include a short shaft 126 extending outwardly therefrom, on which the inner spool 116 of the winding mechanism 114 can be rotatably received. For example, the stub shaft 116 can be configured to define a bearing surface about which the inner bobbin 116 rotates relative to the bearing support member 125. Alternatively, a bearing can be disposed between the stub shaft 126 and the inner bobbin 116 to support the winding mechanism 114 for rotation relative to the end support assembly 119. In one embodiment, a suitable fastener (e.g., screw 122) can be used to axially retain the winding mechanism 114 relative to the end support assembly 119. For example, a fastener may be threaded into the short shaft 126 so that the head of the fastener engages a portion of the winding mechanism 114 to hold the mechanism relative to the end support assembly 119.

4, the end support assembly 119 can also be configured to support the rod assembly 104 relative to the remainder of the covering 10. Specifically, in some embodiments, the top end 104A of the rod assembly 104 can be coupled to a portion of a support bracket 124 of the end support assembly 119. In one embodiment, the top end 104A of the rod assembly 104 can be coupled to the support bracket 124 via a stapled connector or any other suitable connector that allows the rod assembly 104 to pivot relative to the shade 14 in a given plane (e.g., a plane extending parallel to the center plane P (FIG. 1)). In another embodiment, the top end 104A of the rod assembly 104 may be connected to the support bracket 124 via a connection that allows the rod assembly 104 to pivot relative to the shade 14 along two or more planes (such as a ball joint or any other suitable connection that provides two or more degrees of freedom).

Additionally, in some embodiments, movement of the rod assembly 104 in at least one plane relative to the shade 14 may be achieved by configuring the support bracket 124 to be rotatable relative to the bearing support member 125 of the end support assembly 119. For example, in one embodiment, the bearing support member 125 may correspond to a fixed component of the end support assembly 119 that is configured to be rigidly connected to an adjacent mounting bracket of the shade 10 (e.g., bracket 16 of FIG. 3 ), while the support bracket 124 corresponds to a movable component of the end support assembly 119 that is rotatable relative to the bearing support member 125. In such an embodiment, the support bracket 124 can rotate about a bearing support structure (e.g., about a rotation axis coaxial with the rotation axis of the winding mechanism 114) to allow the rod assembly 104 to move relative to the shade 14 about a plane extending perpendicular to the rotation axis (e.g., a plane extending perpendicular to the center plane P (Figure 1)).

5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B, assembled rear views of one embodiment of a wand assembly 104, winding mechanism 114, and end support assembly 119 configured for use in one or more embodiments of the disclosed operating system are illustrated according to aspects of the present subject matter. Specifically, FIG5A and FIG6A illustrate assembled rear side views of the wand assembly 104, winding mechanism 114, and end support assembly 119, while FIG5B and FIG6B illustrate cross-sectional side views of these components taken along the section lines B-B shown in FIG5A and FIG6A, respectively. 5A and 5B provide representative embodiments of the rod assembly 104 having a configuration similar to that shown in FIG2 , wherein the rod assembly 104 has been moved to a fully extended position corresponding to when the shade 14 is in its fully extended position. FIGS. 6A and 6B provide representative embodiments of the rod assembly 104 having a configuration similar to that shown in FIG1 , wherein the rod assembly 104 has been moved to a fully retracted position corresponding to when the shade 14 is in its fully retracted position.

In some embodiments, the rod assembly 104 can be configured as a telescopic rod formed of a single rod member (e.g., a tubular member) configured in a telescopic configuration. As shown in Figures 5A to 6B, the rod assembly 104 includes an inner or first rod member 130 and an outer or second rod member 132, wherein the second rod member 132 is configured in a telescopic configuration with the first rod member 130, so that the second rod member 132 can move or slide relative to the first rod member 130 to selectively extend and retract the rod assembly 104. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the first bar member 130 is coupled to the support bracket 124 of the end support assembly 119 (e.g., via a stapled connection), and the second bar member 132 is configured to be retractable and slidably movable relative to the first bar member 130. Thus, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B , the second bar member 132 can be moved downward relative to the first bar member 130 to extend the bar assembly 104. Similarly, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B , the second bar member 132 can be moved upward relative to the first bar member 130 to retract the bar assembly 104.

As shown in FIGS. 5B and 6B , the operating rope 102 is configured to extend from the winding mechanism 114 (e.g., where the rope is wound around the reel 116 and tied to the drum coupler 118) through a hole, slot or other opening 134 ( FIGS. 5A and 5B ) defined in the support bracket 124 before extending into the rope hidden bar assembly 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the rope 102 extends through the entire first bar member 130 and into the second bar member 132, at which point the second end 136 of the rope 102 is coupled to a portion of the second bar member 132. 5B , the second end 136 of the operating cord 102 may be attached to the end portion 138 of the second rod member 132, such as by coupling the second end 136 to the end portion 138 via a cap or plug 140 that is fixed (e.g., press fit, glue, molded, threaded, etc.) to the end portion 138. In this way, the operating cord 102 may be enclosed within the rod assembly 104, wherein a small section extending between the rod assembly 104 and the winding mechanism 114 is completely or substantially completely shielded by the support bracket 124 of the end support assembly 119.

It should be appreciated that by coupling the second end 136 of the rope 102 to the second rod member 132 of the rod assembly 104, downward movement of the second rod member 132 relative to the first rod member 130 can cause the shade 14 to move toward the extended position. Specifically, when the second rod member 132 is moved downwardly relative to the first rod member 130 (e.g., toward the position shown in Figures 5A and 5B), a downward force is applied via the rope 102, which causes the winding mechanism 114 (and the drum tube 24 connected thereto) to be rotationally driven in the second or extended direction as the rope 102 is unwound from the reel 116 of the winding mechanism 114. Conversely, when the drive assembly 101 is used to rotate the drum tube 24 in the first or retracted direction (and, thereby, roll up the shade 14 toward its retracted position), such rotation of the drum tube 24 will cause an upward force to be applied through the rope 102 as the rope 102 is rewound onto the reel 116, which in turn causes the second rod member 132 to move upward relative to the first rod member 130 toward the retracted position (e.g., toward the position shown in Figures 6A and 6B).

As indicated above, the disclosed operating system 100 can be configured to incorporate features for locking or retaining the shade 14 in a given position (such as a fully extended position, or any suitable intermediate position defined between the fully extended position and the fully retracted position) relative to an adjacent building structure. Specifically, in several embodiments, the operating system 100 can include a locking mechanism or device that is configured to prevent the drive assembly 101 from rotating a given drive component (e.g., the roller tube 24) of the operating system 100 in a first or retracted direction, thereby allowing the shade 14 to remain in a user-selected position.

In one embodiment, the locking mechanism may correspond to a locking mechanism provided in association with the drive assembly 101, such as the roller locking mechanism 110 of the drive assembly 101 described above with reference to FIG3. In such an embodiment, the roller locking mechanism 110 may be configured to selectively engage the roller tube 24 with the fixed shaft 106 of the drive assembly 101 to lock the roller tube 24 in place when the shade 14 is moved to a desired position, thereby preventing the roller tube 24 from further rotating until the user provides a downward operating force to the roller tube 24 (e.g., by pulling the rod assembly 104 downward) to disengage or unlock the roller tube 24 from the shaft 106.

Alternatively, in embodiments where the drive assembly 101 does not incorporate a locking mechanism (such as a drum lock mechanism 110), a separate member for locking or holding the shade 14 in place may be incorporated into the operating system 100. Specifically, in one embodiment, a locking mechanism (such as a twist-lock locking mechanism) may be incorporated into the rod assembly 104 to provide a means for preventing the drive assembly 101 from rotating in a first or retracted direction to drive the operating system 100. For example, FIG. 7 illustrates an exploded view of the rod assembly 104 described above, wherein the first rod member 130 and the second rod member 132 incorporate corresponding locking members or features. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the rod assembly 104 includes a first plurality of tabs or cam-shaped features 142 disposed on an outer surface 144 of the first rod member 130, and a second plurality of tabs or cam-shaped features 146 (shown in hidden lines) disposed along an inner surface 148 of the second member. In operation, an operator twists the second rod member 132 relative to the first rod member 130 to align and lock the two members 130, 132 in place, or twists the second rod member 132 relative to the first rod member 130 to unlock the second rod member 132 from the first rod member 130, thereby allowing relative movement between the two rod members 130, 132.

Alternatively, the rod assembly 104 may incorporate a different type of twist-lock locking mechanism. For example, FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of the rod assembly 104 described above, wherein the rod assembly 104 includes a cam lock mechanism 150 (shown in hidden lines) coupled to the first rod member 130 and engageable with the second rod member 132. In such an embodiment, the cam lock mechanism 150 may be configured to lock the second rod member 132 relative to the first rod member 130 in any suitable position by simply twisting the second rod member 132 relative to the first rod member 130. Such twist-lock functionality is commonly used in telescopic assemblies (e.g., telescoping poles), and therefore, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand how to achieve such locking of the rod assembly 104 without any detailed description of such assemblies.

As an alternative to a rod-based locking mechanism in embodiments where the drive assembly 101 does not incorporate a locking mechanism, a suitable locking mechanism may be provided in operative association with the rope 102 itself. For example, in several embodiments, the operating system 100 may incorporate a friction-based locking mechanism that is used to prevent the drive assembly 101 from rotating in a first or retracting direction to drive the operating system 100 based at least in part on the amount of friction provided between the rope 102 and the locking mechanism. Specifically, in one embodiment, the friction-based locking mechanism may include a one-way winch or bearing provided in association with the rope 102.

For example, FIG9 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the rod assembly 104 and winding mechanism 114 shown in FIGS. 5A-6B , particularly illustrating a winch 152 disposed in association with a section of the operating rope 102 extending between the rod assembly 104 and the winding mechanism 114. In several embodiments, the winch 152 may be supported at a location between the rod assembly 104 and the winding mechanism 114 via an end support assembly 119. For example, briefly returning to reference FIGS. 5A-6B , the winch 152 is shown coupled to the support bracket 124 for rotation relative to the support bracket.

In some embodiments, the winch 152 can be configured to act as a one-way bearing. Specifically, when the rope 102 is wrapped around the winch 152 at least once, the winch 152 can be configured to rotate about the longitudinal axis 154 of the winch in the direction of movement of the rope 102 when the rope 102 is pulled downward to move the shade 14 toward its extended position, but is prevented from rotating in the opposite direction. Thus, as the second bar member 132 moves downward relative to the first bar member 130 to extend the shade 14, the operating rope 102 simply winds and unwinds around the winch 152 as the winch 152 rotates about its longitudinal axis 154 in the direction of movement of the rope 102. However, when the bar assembly 104 is released, the shade 14 is held in place by the downward force on the rope 102 provided by the weight of the bar assembly 104 combined with the multiplying effect of the one-way winch. Specifically, in one embodiment, the weight of the rod assembly 104 combined with the friction force applied to the rope 102 via the winch 152 can generally equal or slightly exceed the spring-based restoring force of the drive assembly 101, thereby allowing the shade 14 to remain in a given user-selected position. Thereafter, when the weight of the rod assembly 104 is removed from the rope 104 (e.g., by the user raising or lowering the second rod member 132 relative to the first rod member 130), the amount of friction between the rope/winch can be reduced, thereby allowing the spring-based restoring force of the drive assembly 101 to rotate the drive roller 24 in the first or retracting direction to move the shade 14 toward the retracted position. Specifically, when the tension in the rope 102 is released, the rope 102 "strikes" the winch 152, allowing the rope 102 to slide around the winch 152 to allow the shade 14 to retract.

In one exemplary embodiment, the tension in the rope 128 may be maintained at least in part by a "friction" joint formed between the first and second rod members 130, 132 of the rod assembly 104. For example, in one embodiment, the "friction" joint may be achieved by using an O-ring (not shown) disposed between the outer surface of the first rod member 130 and the inner surface of the second rod member 132, which provides additional resistance to the extension and retraction motion of the rod members 130, 132. An example of a friction joint using an O-ring in a manner suitable for use in the rod assembly 104 and associated operating system 100 is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 8,739,852 (Anderson et al.), the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety for all purposes.

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, FIG. 10 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the rod assembly 104' as shown in FIGS. 1-9. In a particular embodiment, the rod assembly 104' includes a first rod member 130' and a second rod member 132'. The first rod member 130' includes a slot 156 extending between a top end 158 of the first rod member 130' and a bottom end 160 of the first rod member 130'. The first rod member 130' is coupled to the support bracket 124 of the end support assembly 119 (e.g., via a stapled connection). The second rod member 132' is arranged to be in a sliding configuration with the first rod member 130', so that the second rod member 132' can move or slide relative to the first rod member 130' in the slot 156 to selectively extend and retract the shade 14 (Figures 1 to 2). Therefore, as shown in Figure 10, the second rod member 132' can move relative to the first rod member 130' in an upward direction U or in a downward direction D.

Referring back to FIG. 4 , the operating rope 102 is configured to extend from the winding mechanism 114 (e.g., where the rope is wrapped around the reel 116 and tied to the drum coupler 118) through a hole, slot or other opening 134 defined in the support bracket 124 before extending into the first rod member 130 '( FIG. 10 ). In the embodiment shown in FIG. 10 , the rope 102 extends within a portion of the first rod member 130 'and is attached to the second rod member 132 'at a second end 136 of the rope 102. In this way, the operating rope 102 is enclosed within the first rod member 130 ′, wherein a small section extending between the rod assembly 104 ′ and the winding mechanism 114 is completely or substantially completely shielded by the support bracket 124 of the end support assembly 119 .

According to various embodiments disclosed herein, FIG. 11A illustrates a top view of the second rod member 132'. FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional side view of the second rod member 132' taken along the section line A-A shown in FIG. 11A. As shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, the second rod member 132' includes a rope retainer or boss 160. The rope retainer 160 is configured to fit within the first rod member 130' and includes a slot, slot or hole 162 for receiving and securing the second end 136 of the rope 102. As shown in FIG. 11A, the rope retainer 160 is coupled to the inner surface 164 of the second rod member 132' via a wall or tab 166. The tab 166 is configured to fit within and slide along the slot 156 of the first rod member 130'.

It should be appreciated that by coupling the second end 136 of the rope 102 to the second rod member 132' of the rod assembly 104', downward movement of the second rod member 132' relative to the first rod member 130' can cause the shade 14 to move toward the extended position. Specifically, when the second rod member 132' is moved downwardly relative to the first rod member 130' (e.g., in the downward direction D), a downward force is applied via the rope 102, which causes the winding mechanism 114 (and the drum tube 24 connected thereto) to be rotationally driven in the second or extended direction as the rope 102 is unwound from the reel 116 of the winding mechanism 114. Conversely, when the drive assembly 101 is operated to rotate the drum tube 24 in the first or retracted direction (and, thereby, roll up the shade 14 toward its retracted position), such rotation of the drum tube 24 will cause an upward force to be applied through the rope 102 as the rope 102 is rewound onto the reel 116, which in turn causes the second rod member 132' to move in the upward direction U relative to the first rod member 130'.

It should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the disclosed stick assembly may have any other suitable configuration that allows the stick assembly to function substantially as described herein, including any suitable non-retractable configuration. For example, alternative stick configurations that may be suitable for use within the disclosed operating system 100 are described in U.S. Patent No. 10,829,990 (Anderson et al.), the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety for all purposes.

As indicated above, while the subject matter of the present invention is generally described herein with respect to roller blinds, the operating system 100 can be configured for use with any other suitable type of covering, such as a non-drum-based covering that includes a shaft-based tightening system (e.g., via a lift shaft or rod). In such embodiments, the drive assembly 101 can be configured to rotate the lift shaft/rod of the drive operating system in a first direction to move an associated covering element (e.g., a honeycomb blanket or any other suitable stacking type covering element) toward a retracted position. Additionally, the rod assembly 104 can be configured to interact with the lift shaft/rod to allow the rod assembly 104 to be used to rotationally drive the lift shaft/rod of the operating system in a second direction to move the covering element toward the extended position. For example, the rod assembly 104 can interact with the lift shaft/rod via the operating rope 102 and the winding mechanism 114 of the operating system 100. For example, the winding drum 116 of the winding mechanism 114 can be connected to the lift shaft/rod so that downward movement of the second rod member 132 relative to the first rod member 130 causes the winding mechanism 114 to rotationally drive the lift shaft/rod in the second direction to move the covering element toward the extended position.

Although the foregoing embodiments and drawings represent various embodiments, it will be understood that various additions, modifications, and substitutions may be made to the embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the subject matter of the invention. Each example is provided by way of explanation and is not intended to limit the broad concept of the subject matter of the invention. In particular, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that the principles of the present disclosure may be embodied in other forms, structures, configurations, proportions, and utilizing other elements, materials, and assemblies without departing from the spirit or basic characteristics of the present disclosure. For example, a feature illustrated or described as part of one embodiment may be used with another embodiment to obtain yet another embodiment. Therefore, it is intended that the subject matter of the invention encompass such modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the attached patent claims and their equivalents. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present disclosure may be used with many modifications of the structures, configurations, proportions, materials, and assemblies used in practicing the present disclosure without departing from the principles of the present disclosure, such modifications being particularly suited to particular circumstances and operating requirements. For example, an element shown as being formed integrally may be constructed of multiple parts, or an element shown as multiple parts may be formed integrally, the operation of an element may be reversed or otherwise altered, and the size or dimensions of an element may be altered. Therefore, the presently disclosed embodiments should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive, and the scope of the present disclosure is indicated by the appended claims and is not limited to the foregoing description.

In the foregoing embodiments, it will be understood that, as used herein, the phrases "at least one," "one or more," and "and/or" are open-ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. As used herein, the term "a" or "an" element refers to one or more of the element. Therefore, the terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more," and "at least one" may be used interchangeably herein. All directional references (e.g., proximal, distal, upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, lateral, longitudinal, front, rear, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, transverse, radial, axial, clockwise, counterclockwise, and/or the like) are used only for identification purposes to assist the reader in understanding the inventive subject matter and/or to distinguish areas of associated elements from one another and do not limit the position, orientation, or use of the associated elements, particularly with respect to the present disclosure. Connection references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, joined, fixed, mounted, and/or the like) are to be interpreted broadly and may include intermediate members between a collection of elements and relative movement between elements unless otherwise specified. Thus, connection references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and in a fixed relationship to one another. Identifying references (eg, primary, secondary, first, second, third, fourth, etc.) are not intended to imply importance or priority, but are used to distinguish one feature from another.

All apparatus and methods disclosed herein are examples of apparatus and/or methods implemented according to one or more principles of the subject matter of the invention. These examples are not the only ways to implement these principles, but are merely examples. Therefore, references to elements or structures or features in the accompanying drawings must be understood as references to examples of embodiments of the subject matter of the invention, and should not be understood as limiting the disclosure to the specific elements, structures or features shown. Other examples of ways to implement the disclosed principles will occur to those skilled in the art after reading this disclosure.

This written description uses examples to disclose the subject matter of the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable one skilled in the art to practice the subject matter of the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the subject matter of the invention is defined by the claims and may include other examples that occur to one skilled in the art. If such other examples include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the technical solution, or if such other examples include equivalent structural elements that do not differ substantially from the literal language of the technical solution, then such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims.

The following claims are hereby incorporated by reference into this embodiment, wherein each claim independently serves as a separate embodiment of the present disclosure. In the technical solution, the term "comprising" does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps. In addition, although listed separately, multiple components, elements or method steps can be implemented by, for example, a single unit or processor. In addition, although a single feature may be included in different technical solutions, such features may be advantageously combined, and inclusion in different technical solutions does not mean that the combination of features is not feasible and/or advantageous. In addition, singular references do not exclude the plural. The terms "a", "an", "first", "second", etc. do not exclude the plural. Reference symbols in the technical solutions are provided only as clarifying examples and should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the patent application in any way.

10: Covering 12: Mounting assembly 14: Roller blind; Shade 16: First bracket; Bracket 18: First end 20: Second bracket; Bracket 22: Second end 24: Drum tube 26: Front side 28: Rear side 30: Weighted counterweight component 100: Operating system 101: Drive assembly 102: Operating rope 104: Rod assembly 104′: Rod assembly 104A: Top end 106: Fixed shaft 108: Torsion spring; Spring 110: Drum lock mechanism 114: Winding mechanism 116: Internal reel 118: external roller coupling 118A: opening 119: end support assembly 122: screw 124: support bracket 125: bearing support plate; bearing support member 126: short shaft 128: first end 130: internal rod member; first rod member 130′: first rod member 132: external rod member; second rod member 132′: second rod member 134: aperture, slot or other opening 136: second end 138: end portion 140: cap or plug 142: tab or cam feature 144: outer surface 146: tab or cam feature 148: inner surface 150: cam lock mechanism 152: capstan 154: longitudinal axis 156: slot 158: top 160: bottom 160: rope holder or boss 162: aperture, slot or hole 164: inner surface 166: wall; tab A-A: section line B-B: section line D: downward direction H: horizontal direction P: center plane T: transverse direction U: upward direction V: vertical direction

A complete and feasible disclosure of the subject matter of the invention for a person skilled in the art, including its best mode, is set forth in the specification with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: According to the aspect of the subject matter of the invention, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a covering for a building structure, particularly illustrating the covering element of the covering in a retracted position; FIG. 2 illustrates another perspective view of the covering shown in FIG. 1, particularly illustrating the covering element of the covering in an extended position; According to the aspect of the subject matter of the invention, FIG. 3 illustrates a partially exploded perspective view of an exemplary operating system configured for use with a covering for a building structure; According to an aspect of the subject matter of the present invention, FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an exemplary winding mechanism used in one or more embodiments of the operating system; According to an aspect of the subject matter of the present invention, FIG. 5A illustrates a side view of an exemplary rod assembly, particularly illustrating the rod assembly in an extended position; FIG. 5B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the exemplary rod assembly shown in FIG. 5A taken along section line B-B; According to an aspect of the subject matter of the present invention, FIG. 6A illustrates a side view of an exemplary rod assembly, particularly illustrating the rod assembly in a retracted position; FIG. 6B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the exemplary rod assembly shown in FIG. 6A taken along section line B-B; According to an aspect of the subject matter of the present invention, FIG. 7 illustrates an exploded view of an exemplary rod assembly, and particularly illustrates a rod assembly of one embodiment including a torsion locking locking mechanism; According to an aspect of the subject matter of the present invention, FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary rod assembly, and particularly illustrates a rod assembly of another embodiment including a torsion locking locking mechanism; According to an aspect of the subject matter of the present invention, FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the rod assembly and the winding mechanism as shown in FIGS. 5A to 6B, and particularly illustrates an embodiment of a one-way winch that can be used as a locking mechanism associated with an operating rope of an operating system; According to an aspect of the subject matter of the present invention, FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary rod assembly; According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, FIG. 11A illustrates a top view of the second rod member of the rod assembly shown in FIG. 10 ; and FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional side view of the second rod member taken along the section line A-A shown in FIG. 11A .

10: Covering

12: Installation assembly

14: Roller blinds/shading

16: First bracket; bracket

18: First end

20: Second bracket; bracket

22: Second end

24: Roller tube

26:Front side

28: Back side

30: Add weight to counterweight components

100: Operating system

101: Drive assembly

102: Operating rope

104: Rod assembly

H: Horizontal direction

P: Center plane

T: Horizontal direction

V: vertical direction

Claims (32)

A covering for a building structure, the covering comprising: a covering element movable between an extended position and a retracted position; an operating system configured to move the covering element between the extended position and the retracted position, the operating system comprising: a drive assembly configured to rotationally drive a component of the operating system in a first direction to move the covering element toward the retracted position; a rod assembly comprising a first rod member and a second rod member, wherein the second rod member is movable relative to the first rod member to rotationally drive the component of the operating system in a second direction to move the covering element toward the extended position; and A rope extending at least partially through both the first rod member and the second rod member, the rope having a first end connected to a drive assembly of the operating system and a second end connected to a portion of the second rod member; wherein: the operating system is configured so that downward movement of the second rod member relative to the first rod member causes the assembly of the operating system to be rotationally driven in the second direction to move the covering element toward the extended position; and when the drive assembly rotationally drives the assembly of the operating system in the first direction to move the covering element toward the retracted position, the second rod member moves upward relative to the first rod member. A covering as claimed in claim 1, wherein the covering element comprises a roller blind and the component of the operating system comprises a drum tube, which can be rotated in the first direction to roll the roller blind around the drum tube and can be rotated in the second direction to unroll the roller blind from the drum tube. A covering as claimed in claim 2, wherein the drive assembly includes a winding mechanism for the rod assembly. The covering of claim 3, wherein: the winding mechanism includes a bobbin connected to the drum tube to rotate with the drum tube; and a portion of the rope is wound around the bobbin so that downward movement of the second rod member relative to the first rod member causes the winding mechanism to rotationally drive the drum tube in the first direction. A covering as in claim 4, wherein the winding mechanism further comprises a drum coupling, which connects the bobbin to the drum tube so as to rotate with the drum tube. As in the cover of claim 2, the cover further comprises a locking mechanism configured to prevent the drive assembly from rotating in the first direction to drive the component of the operating system. As in claim 1, the cover further comprises an end support assembly connected to the drive assembly of the operating system. A cover as in claim 7, wherein the end support assembly includes a bearing support member configured to support the drive assembly for rotation relative to the drive assembly. A covering as claimed in claim 8, wherein: the end support assembly further comprises a support bracket connected to the bearing support member; and the rod assembly is pivotally connected to the support bracket. A covering as claimed in claim 8, wherein: the end support assembly further comprises a support bracket, the support bracket being connected to the bearing support member to rotate relative to the bearing support member; and the rod assembly is connected to the support bracket. The cover of claim 1, further comprising a locking mechanism configured to prevent the drive assembly from rotating in the first direction to drive the component of the operating system. A covering as claimed in claim 11, wherein the locking mechanism includes a locking mechanism configured to be operatively associated with the drive assembly. A covering as claimed in claim 11, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a one-way winch drum on which the rope is wound. A covering as claimed in claim 11, wherein the locking mechanism includes a torsion locking mechanism arranged to be operatively associated with the rod assembly. A covering as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rod assembly comprises a telescopic rod assembly, and wherein the second rod member is configured to be in a telescopic configuration with the first rod member. A covering as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second rod member is slidably connected to the first rod member to allow the second rod member to move upward and downward relative to the first rod member. A covering as claimed in claim 1, wherein the drive assembly includes a torsion spring configured to store energy when the rod assembly is used to rotationally drive the component of the operating system in the second direction to move the covering element toward the extended position, and to release the stored energy to rotationally drive the component of the operating system in the first direction to move the covering element toward the retracted position. A covering for a building structure, the covering comprising: a roller tube; a roller blind configured to be wound around the roller tube and unwound from the roller tube; an operating system configured to move the roller blind between an extended position and a retracted position, the operating system comprising: a drive assembly configured to rotationally drive the roller tube in a first direction to move the covering element toward the retracted position; A rod assembly, the rod assembly comprising a first rod member and a second rod member, wherein the second rod member is movable relative to the first rod member to rotationally drive the drum tube in a second direction to move the covering element toward the extended position; and a rope, the rope at least partially extending through both the first rod member and the second rod member, the rope having a first end connected to a drive assembly of the operating system and a second end connected to a portion of the second rod member; wherein: the operating system is configured so that downward movement of the second rod member relative to the first rod member causes the drum tube to be rotationally driven in the second direction, causing the roller blind to spread from the drum tube to move the covering element toward the extended position; and When the drive assembly rotationally drives the drum tube in the first direction so that the roller curtain is wound around the drum tube to move the covering element toward the retracted position, the second rod member moves upward relative to the first rod member. A covering as claimed in claim 18, wherein the drive assembly includes a winding mechanism for the rod assembly. The covering of claim 19, wherein: the winding mechanism includes a bobbin connected to the drum tube to rotate with the drum tube; and a portion of the rope is wound around the bobbin so that downward movement of the second rod member relative to the first rod member causes the winding mechanism to rotationally drive the drum tube in the first direction. A covering as in claim 20, wherein the winding mechanism further comprises a drum coupling which connects the bobbin to the drum tube so as to rotate with the drum tube. As in claim 18, the cover further comprises a locking mechanism configured to prevent the drive assembly from rotationally driving the drum tube in the first direction. A covering as in claim 22, wherein the locking mechanism includes a locking mechanism configured to be operatively associated with the drive assembly. A covering as in claim 22, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a one-way winch drum, and the rope is wound around the one-way winch drum. A covering as in claim 22, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a torsion locking mechanism arranged to be operatively associated with the rod assembly. A covering as in claim 19, further comprising an end support assembly connected to the winding mechanism. A covering as in claim 26, wherein the end support assembly includes a bearing support member configured to support the winding mechanism for rotation relative to the winding mechanism. A covering as claimed in claim 27, wherein: the end support assembly further comprises a support bracket connected to the bearing support member; and the rod assembly is pivotally connected to the support bracket. A covering as claimed in claim 27, wherein: the end support assembly further comprises a support bracket connected to the bearing support member for rotation relative to the bearing support member; and the rod assembly is connected to the support bracket. A covering as in claim 18, wherein the rod assembly comprises a telescopic rod assembly and wherein the second rod member is configured in a telescopic configuration with respect to the first rod member. A covering as claimed in claim 18, wherein the second rod member is slidably connected to the first rod member to allow the second rod member to move upward and downward relative to the first rod member. A covering as in claim 18, wherein the drive assembly includes a torsion spring configured to store energy when the rod assembly is used to rotationally drive the roller tube in the second direction to move the covering element toward the extended position, and to release the stored energy to rotationally drive the roller tube in the first direction to move the covering element toward the retracted position.

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