Patent ID: 8056601
Filing Date: 2011-11-15
Classification: E06B

Abstract:
1. A self-contained tensioned roller shade system adapted to be mounted in an opening having first and second opposite sides, and third and fourth opposite sides, the roller shade system comprising: a free-standing frame having first and second spaced-apart parallel side channels adapted to be mounted along the first and second opposite sides of the opening, respectively, each of the side channels having a proximal end and a distal end, the frame having a first frame end coupled between the proximal ends of the side channels and adapted to be mounted along the third side of the opening; a roller tube rotatably mounted between the proximal ends of the first and second side channels adjacent the first frame end; a shade fabric having a first fabric end connected to the roller tube, such that the shade fabric is windingly received around the roller tube, the shade fabric having a second fabric end opposite the first fabric end; a first pulley located in the first side channel and operatively coupled to the frame adjacent the distal end of the first side channel; and a first tensioning cord operatively coupled between the roller tube and the second fabric end, the tensioning cord coupled to the roller tube for winding receipt about the roller tube, the tensioning cord windingly received around the first pulley, the tensioning cord adapted to bias the second fabric end toward the distal ends of the side channels, such that the shade fabric and the tensioning cord apply forces on the frame; wherein the second fabric end is adapted for translational movement between the distal ends and the proximal ends of the first and second side channels as the roller tube is rotated; and wherein the free-standing frame contains the forces applied by the shade fabric and the tensioning cord to minimize the forces applied by the frame on the opening in which the roller shade system is mounted.