Mounting element for mounting an architectural covering between opposing mounting surfaces

A mounting element for mounting an architectural covering between two opposing mounting surfaces includes an elongate mounting member having a first end, a second end, and a guide surface. The mounting element also includes an extension mechanism arranged at the first end and operable between: i) a retracted state, and ii) an extended state, and a telescopic extender arranged at the second end and operable between a retracted configuration and an extended configuration. The telescopic extender includes a slidable body to slide along the guide surface so as to lengthen the mounting element, and a locking member configured: i) to allow the slidable body to slide in the first translation direction, and ii) to prevent the slidable body from sliding in a second translation direction opposite the first translation direction.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is based upon and claims the right of priority to EP Patent Application No. 17199912.1, filed on Nov. 3, 2017, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety for all purposes.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a mounting element for mounting an architectural covering, such as a blind, between two opposing mounting surfaces, e.g. by a force fit (frictional fit) and/or form fit (e.g. if the recess has matching female or male relief). Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to an architectural covering comprising such a mounting element.

BACKGROUND ART

A mounting element for mounting an architectural covering (roller blind) in an architectural recess (window) is discussed in US2009242143A1, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The mounting element of US2009242143A1 comprises an elongate member, an extension mechanism manually retractable or extendable at one end of the elongate member, and a telescopic extender in the middle of the elongate member.

In order to adjust the overall length of the mounting element of US2009242143A1, the user must pull a locking pin, slide the telescopic extender and then insert the locking pin into a slot among a series of slots. However, the adjusting process is quite difficult and long to carry out. Moreover, the series of slots of US2009242143A1 only allows for a discrete adjustment of the overall length of the mounting element. As a result, the user may adjust the overall length only approximately, which in turn might cause the mounting element to not properly fit into the architectural recess.

SUMMARY

This summary of the disclosure is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Disclosed herein is an improved mounting element, which alleviates or at least reduces the afore-mentioned drawbacks. Such drawbacks may be alleviated or reduced with a mounting element, for mounting an architectural covering between two opposing mounting surfaces, the mounting element comprising:an elongate mounting member which is elongated along a longitudinal direction and which has a first end, a second end, and at least one guide surface, andan extension mechanism arranged at the first end, the extension mechanism being operable between: i) a retracted state, and ii) an extended state in which the extension mechanism abuts one of the opposing mounting surfaces when the mounting element is mounted between the opposing mounting surfaces, anda telescopic extender arranged at the second end, the telescopic extender being operable between a retracted configuration and an extended configuration so as to abut the other one of the opposing mounting surfaces when the mounting element is mounted between the opposing mounting surfaces, and
wherein the telescopic extender comprises:a slidable body configured to slide along the guide surface parallel to the longitudinal direction in a first translation direction away from the first end so as to lengthen the mounting element, anda locking member mechanically coupled to the slidable body, the locking member being configured: i) to allow the slidable body to slide in the first translation direction, and ii) to engage the guide surface so as to prevent the slidable body from sliding in a second translation direction opposite the first translation direction.

Such a mounting element enables the user to easily and finely adjust the overall length of the mounting element to the dimension of the architectural recess. The user may conveniently draw, with only one hand, the slidable body outwards and the user may easily select any adjustment position along the continuous displacement of the slidable body as allowed by the locking member. The user may stop the slidable body, which is prevented by the locking member from returning in the second translation direction. The selected adjustment position cannot be unintentionally unsettled. After such easy adjustment, the user may place the mounting element in the architectural recess and the user may move, with only one hand, the extension mechanism from the retracted state to the extended state.

With respect to the background art devices it has proved easier to quickly adjust and durably maintain the overall length of a mounting element according to the first object, in which the extension mechanism and the telescopic extender work in a combined manner at both ends. It only takes two hands, without any tool nor any help needed from another person, whereas the background art devices would require two persons and/or tools to mount the architectural covering in the recess.

Furthermore, the forces exerted in a combined manner by the extension mechanism and the telescopic extender are strong enough to retain the mounting element in the architectural recess durably over time, even with a heavy blind.

Another object is to provide an architectural covering assembly comprising an architectural covering for covering an architectural recess, wherein the architectural covering assembly includes a mounting element according to the first object.

This summary is given to aid understanding, and one of skill in the art will understand that each of the various aspects and features of the disclosure may advantageously be used separately in some instances, or in combination with other aspects and features of the disclosure in other instances. Accordingly, while the disclosure is presented in terms of embodiments, it should be appreciated that individual aspects of any embodiment can be claimed separately or in combination with aspects and features of that embodiment or any other embodiment. All of the embodiments and aspects mentioned in this disclosure may hence form the subject-matter of a claim to patent protection, either in combination or independently.

The present disclosure is set forth in various levels of detail in this application and no limitation as to the scope of the claimed subject matter is intended by either the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, or the like in this summary. In certain instances, details that are not necessary for an understanding of the disclosure or that render other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted. It should be understood that the claimed subject matter is not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments or arrangements illustrated herein.

The accompanying drawings are provided for purposes of illustration only, and the dimensions, positions, order, and relative sizes reflected in the drawings attached hereto may vary. The detailed description will be better understood in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the present subject matter, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the present subject matter, not limitation of the present subject matter. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present disclosure without departing from the scope or spirit of the present subject matter. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present subject matter covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The afore-mentioned and other features and advantages of the present disclosure will be readily apparent from the following detailed description, the scope of the invention being set out in the appended claims. The telescopic extender disclosed herein enables the user to finely adjust the overall length of the mounting element in a stepless manner while the extension mechanism enables the user to fit in compression the mounting element between the opposing mounting surfaces.

According to an embodiment, the mounting element may further comprise a release mechanism mechanically coupled to the slidable body so as to be operable between a lock state and a release state, the release mechanism being configured to cooperate with the locking member such that:i) the locking member prevents the slidable body from sliding in the second translation direction when the release mechanism is in the lock state, andii) the slidable body is allowed to slide in the second translation direction when the release mechanism is in the release state.

Thus, the user may operate the release mechanism i) to the release state in order to push the telescopic extender in the second translation direction, and ii) to the lock state in order to prevent the telescopic extender from moving backwards. Moving the telescopic extender in the first translation direction (“drawing”) increases the overall length of, hence extends or lengthens, the mounting element. Moving the telescopic extender in the second translation direction (“pushing”) decreases the overall length of, hence shortens or retracts, the mounting element.

According to an embodiment, the release mechanism is configured to be actuated by a manual force, for example directly by hand.

Thus, the user may handle the release mechanism by hand directly, hence without any tool.

According to an embodiment, the release mechanism may comprise a pushing portion movable with respect to the slidable body, the pushing portion being configured to displace the locking member when the release mechanism is operated between the lock state and the release state.

According to an embodiment, the pushing portion may be movable at least in rotation with respect to the slidable body, the pushing portion optionally forming a cam.

For example, the pushing portion may be pivotally or rotatably moveable with respect to the slidable body, optionally along a predetermined angular range, which may be less than 360 degrees or less than 180 degrees. The pushing portion may advantageously be formed by a cam or an eccentric wheel, which may have a pushing surface located at a variable distance from an axis of rotation of the pushing portion, the distance varying as a function of the angle of rotation about the axis of rotation of the pushing portion. Alternatively to this example, the pushing portion may be slidable in the first or second translation direction with respect to the slidable body.

Thus, the release mechanism is quite simple to manipulate, as it suffices to move a pushing portion.

Alternatively to the previous embodiment, the release mechanism may comprise a drawing portion movable with respect to the slidable body, the drawing portion being configured to draw and displace the locking member when the release mechanism is operated between the lock state and the release state.

According to an embodiment, the locking member may comprise an engagement part for selective engagement of the locking member to the guide surface of the elongate mounting member, the engagement part extending at least in a lateral direction crossing the first and the second translation directions.

According to an embodiment, the locking member may further comprise a resilient part, the resilient part being coupled to the engagement part, the resilient part being configured to be elastically deformed by the release mechanism so as to change an amplitude of the extension of the engagement part in the lateral direction, i.e. change how far the engagement part extends in the lateral direction. Optionally, the engagement part and the resilient part are made integral, for example in one-piece, with one another.

Thus, the engagement part may maintain durably the longitudinal position of the telescopic extender by engaging the guide surface of the elongate mounting member. When the mounting element is in service, for example in an architectural recess, the slidable body may transmit a resulting force to the locking member substantially in the second translation direction. This resulting force may tend to strengthen the engagement between the engagement part and the guide surface, which engagement may in turn increasingly prevent the locking member, hence the slidable body, from sliding in the second translation direction. In other words, the resulting force reinforces an interlocking relation between the locking member and the elongate mounting member.

According to an aspect, the guide surface may include sidewalls of the elongate mounting member. Alternatively, the guide surface may include a longitudinal wall(s) extending inside the elongate mounting member and parallel to the first translation direction. Optionally, such longitudinal wall(s) may be integral or one-piece with a structural component of the elongate mounting member, for example a bottom wall or a top wall.

Throughout the present application, “bottom”, “top”, and the related terms pertain to the gravity direction considered when the mounting element is in service in an architectural recess. An element of the mounting element that extends downwards normally extends towards the blind when the mounting element is in service in an architectural recess.

According to an embodiment, the release mechanism may be configured to deform the resilient part so as to reduce the amplitude of the extension of the engagement part in the lateral direction when the release mechanism is in the release state.

According to an embodiment, the locking member may be comprised of a resilient material, for example a polymer, an elastomer, or a sheet metal, advantageously a spring steel, the locking member advantageously including a flat spring, a leaf spring, or a spring washer.

Thus, the locking member may be inexpensive and light.

According to an embodiment, the engagement part may extend obliquely with respect to the first translation direction and away from the second end of the elongate mounting member. The engagement part and the guide surface form an acute angle opening towards the second end. Thus extending obliquely the engagement part may extend not only in the lateral direction but also in the second translation direction.

Thus, high friction forces may be promoted between the engagement part and the guide surface when the slidable body with the locking member is moved in the second translation direction, hence towards the first end.

According to an embodiment, the locking member may be located at the end of the slidable body which is oriented towards the first end of the mounting element.

Thus, the locking member may be easily arranged to assemble the telescopic extender.

According to an embodiment, the guide surface may include at least one sidewall of the elongate mounting member, or two sidewalls and, optionally, a bottom wall connecting the sidewalls.

Thus, the guide surface may be formed by a profile having a rectangular cross-section, for example a square cross-section. Alternatively, the cross-section of such a profile may have any polygonal, curvilineal or composite outline.

According to an embodiment, the guide surface may be made or coated with a friction-promoting material, for example a polymeric material or a metallic material such as steel, and the engagement part is made or coated with a complementary friction-promoting material, for example steel, aluminum or a suitable polymer, so as to allow the engagement part to generate a friction force.

Thus, such materials may promote high friction forces between the engagement part and the guide surface. For example, the engagement part may dig or “bite” into the guide surface.

According to an aspect, the slidable body may have at least one outer extension arranged to overlap a portion of the guide surface. Throughout the present application, an “outer” element or an element that extends “outwards” or “outside” normally extends toward the closest one of the opposing mounting surfaces of the architectural recess.

Thus, the outer extension may hide and protect the second end.

According to an embodiment, the telescopic extender may further comprise an abutment device configured to abut the other one of the opposing mounting surfaces, and the mounting element may further comprise a holding part such as a mounting bracket configured to hold an end of the architectural covering. The holding part may alternatively be secured to the telescopic extender itself instead of being secured to the elongate mounting member, or optionally to the abutment device.

According to an aspect, the abutment device may have a manipulation part configured to be manipulated such that an operator may move the slidable body in the first translation direction and/or in the second translation direction in case the telescopic extender comprises a release mechanism. The manipulation part may be formed by the holding part, for example a bracket. The manipulation part may be secured to the telescopic extender. For example, the manipulation part may be coupled to or integral with the slidable body.

Thus, the abutment device may help in holding the mounting element in place against the opposing mounting surface.

According to an aspect, the holding part, for example a bracket, may be coupled to, optionally integral with, the telescopic extender, for example the slidable body. In such an aspect, the holding part moves together with the telescopic extender. In such an aspect, the holding part ends up very close to the wall, which minimizes the light gap between the wall and the blind.

According to an embodiment, the extension mechanism may further comprise:an actuator rotatable about a rotation axis, the rotation axis being substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, anda conversion mechanism configured to convert a rotation of the actuator into a translatory movement of the rotation axis parallel to the longitudinal direction from the retracted state to the extended state and vice versa.

According to an aspect, the guide surface may extend at least near the second end.

According to an aspect, the release mechanism may comprise at least two pushing portions. The pushing portions may be movable either independently or simultaneously with respect to the slidable body.

According to an aspect, the engagement part may be cantilevered so as protrude from the slidable body when the release mechanism is in the release state.

According to an aspect, the engagement part may be placed selectively:

i) in a contact configuration wherein the engagement part a) may slide along the guide surface when the slidable body slides in the first translation direction, and b) may generate a friction force against the guide surface so as to prevent the slidable body from sliding in the second translation direction, and

ii) in a release configuration wherein the engagement part does not contact the guide surface such that the slidable body may slide in the second translation direction.

According to an aspect, the engagement part may be placed in the contact configuration when the release mechanism is in the lock state, whereas the engagement part may be placed in the release configuration when the release mechanism is in the release state.

According to an aspect, the slidable body has a stopping portion arranged to prevent the resilient part from moving beyond the contact configuration in the first translation direction.

According to an aspect, the engagement part and the resilient part are made integral, advantageously one-piece.

According to an aspect, the locking member may be comprised of sheet metal, for example of a spring steel.

According to an aspect, the engagement part is cantilevered so as to protrude laterally from the slidable body when the at least one engagement part is in the contact configuration.

According to an aspect, the locking member may include only one engagement part and only one resilient part.

Alternatively to this aspect, the locking member includes at least two engagement parts and two resilient parts secured respectively to the engagement parts, such that the locking member may contact the guide surface on two different locations, for example on two opposite locations.

According to an aspect, the resilient part may be at least partially movable between: i) a stop position in which the resilient part lies against a stopping portion, and ii) a distant position in which the resilient part is distant from the stopping portion.

Throughout the present application the term “parallel” encompasses both substantially “parallel to” and substantially “collinear with”. A direction substantially “parallel to” or substantially “collinear with” another direction may form an angle ranging from 175 to 185 degrees.

According to an aspect, the elongate mounting member may be a headrail. The architectural covering may be a blind, for example a roller blind, a Venetian blind, a pleated blind, a honeycomb blind, a Roman shade etc. The elongate mounting member may be equipped with any type of bracket suitable for holding such architectural covering. The opposing mounting surfaces may be the two vertical surfaces of a window frame. The elongate mounting member holds the architectural covering next to the window.

According to an aspect, the release mechanism may be accessible from above the bottom wall.

According to an aspect, the guide surface may further include a top wall opposite the bottom wall. The top wall may have an access opening configured to let an operator access the release mechanism. Alternatively, the bottom wall or a sidewall wall may have an access opening configured to let an operator access the release mechanism, depending on the arrangement of the release mechanism with respect to the elongate mounting member. The opening located in a wall of the elongate mounting member may be an aperture or a slot.

According to an aspect, the conversion mechanism may further comprise a connection member operably coupled to the elongate mounting member and to the actuator.

According to an aspect, the actuator and the connection member may have substantially elongated shapes. The actuator and the connection member may be substantially parallel when the extension mechanism is placed in the extended state.

According to an aspect, the connection member may be hinged to the elongate mounting member so as to rotate about a hinge axis which is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction.

According to an aspect, the abutment device may be composed at least partially of an elastomeric material, for example of rubber.

Throughout the present application the adjective “longitudinal” encompasses an element, for example a guiding slot, which extends along, such as substantially parallel to, the longitudinal direction along which the elongate mounting member is elongated.

According to an aspect, the actuator may protrude from the elongate mounting member when the extension mechanism is in the retracted state.

According to an aspect, the mounting element may further comprise a friction member arranged to abut one of the opposing mounting surfaces when the extension mechanism is in the extended state. The friction member may convert a part of the translatory movement into an upwardly-oriented friction force when the friction member abuts the opposing mounting surface.

According to an aspect, the elongate mounting member may form a housing configured to substantially accommodate the extension mechanism in the extended state.

According to an aspect, a portion of the elongate mounting member may substantially surround a portion of the extension mechanism and a portion of the telescopic extender, such that, in a cross-sectional direction (i.e. in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction), the extension mechanism and the telescopic extender cannot be separated from the elongate mounting member while they slide parallel to the first translation direction.

Throughout the present application the term “telescopic” encompasses slidable parts that slide one within another like the tubes of a jointed telescope such that the assembly of these slidable parts may be extended or shortened.

Some embodiments will be described hereafter with reference to the exemplary drawings, in which like reference signs refer to like parts or features.

FIGS.1to11depict a mounting element101for mounting an architectural covering202in an architectural recess300. The architectural covering202may be formed by a roller blind, which is supported by the mounting element101. As depicted inFIG.2, the architectural recess300may be formed by a window frame having two opposing mounting surfaces302and304. Mounting element101and architectural covering202form an architectural covering assembly200, as depicted inFIG.2.

Mounting element101may comprise an elongate mounting member102, an extension mechanism104, and a telescopic extender1, which is operable between a retracted configuration (FIGS.1and4) and an extended configuration (FIGS.2and3). Elongate mounting member102may be elongated along a longitudinal direction X and have a first end102.1, a second end102.2, as illustrated inFIG.1. Elongate mounting member102may have at least one guide surface103, as illustrated inFIGS.3,4and7to11. Elongate mounting member102may be a formed as a headrail. Elongate mounting member102holds the architectural covering202adjacent the window.

Guide surface103may be formed by two sidewalls103.1and a bottom wall103.2connecting the sidewalls103.1. Elongate mounting member102may further have a top wall, which is located opposite the bottom wall103.2and which also connects sidewalls103.1. Elongate mounting member102may be configured to allow access to telescopic extender1, such as via an open space formed in at least a portion of guide surface103. For example, guide surface103may have an access opening105, as illustrated inFIG.2, which is configured to let an operator access the release mechanism6. According to different design variations, access opening105may be arranged in the top wall, the bottom wall103.2or a sidewall103.1. In a not shown variant, the top wall may also be a guide surface in case the telescopic extender is rotated 90 degrees and the release mechanism is accessible from a sidewall through an opening.

On the one hand, extension mechanism104may be arranged at first end102.1. Extension mechanism104may be operable between: i) a retracted state (FIGS.1and3) in which the user may position mounting element101in architectural recess300, and ii) an extended state (FIGS.2and4) in which the extension mechanism104abuts one of the opposing mounting surfaces302when mounting element101is mounted between opposing mounting surfaces302,304.

On the other hand, telescopic extender1may be arranged at the second end102.2so as to abut the other one304of opposing mounting surfaces302,304when the mounting element101is mounted between opposing mounting surfaces302,304.

As depicted inFIGS.1to4, extension mechanism104may comprise an actuator110, a conversion mechanism112, and a connection member200for connecting actuator110to elongate mounting member102. Extension mechanism104may be formed as the extension mechanism described in the European patent application EP17159407.0, the content of which is herein incorporated by reference.

Actuator110may be rotatable about a rotation axis Y, which may be substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction X. Conversion mechanism112may be configured to convert a rotation or pivoting of the actuator110into a translatory movement of rotation axis Y parallel to the longitudinal direction X from the retracted state (FIGS.1and3) to the extended state (FIGS.2and4). Vice versa, conversion mechanism112may be configured to convert a rotation or pivoting of the actuator110into a translatory movement of rotation axis Y parallel to the longitudinal direction X from the extended state (FIGS.2and4) to the retracted state (FIGS.1and3).

Actuator110and connection member120may have substantially elongated shapes and be substantially parallel to one another when the extension mechanism104is placed in the extended state (FIGS.2and4). Actuator110may protrude from elongate mounting member102when extension mechanism104is in the retracted state (FIGS.1and3).

Actuator110may be formed as a crank, and connection member120may be formed as a connecting rod that is mechanically coupled to a pivot121. Connection member120may be operably coupled to elongate mounting member102and to actuator110. Connection member120may be hinged to elongate mounting member102so as to rotate about a hinge axis which is orthogonal to longitudinal direction X and parallel to rotation axis Y.

Mounting element101may further comprise a friction member arranged to abut one of opposing mounting surfaces302,304when extension mechanism104is in the extended state (FIGS.2and4). The friction member may convert a part of the translatory movement into an upwardly-oriented friction force when the friction member abuts opposing mounting surface302.

As illustrated inFIG.7, the telescopic extender1may comprise a slidable body2and a locking member4. Slidable body2may be configured to slide i) along guide surface103ii) parallel to the longitudinal direction X iii) in a first translation direction X2. When slidable body2thusly slides iv) away from the first end102.1of elongate mounting member102it enables the user to lengthen the mounting element101. Slidable body2may have slide faces2.1, which herein lie opposite to one another.

Locking member4may be mechanically coupled to slidable body2. For example a portion of locking member4may be fastened to slidable body2by means of a screw5. Locking member4may be located at the end of the slidable body2which is oriented towards first end102.1of elongate mounting member102.

Locking member4may be configured to allow slidable body2to slide in first translation direction X2. Further, locking member4may be configured to engage guide surface103so as to prevent slidable body2from sliding in a second translation direction OX2opposite the first translation direction X2. When slidable body2is urged in first translation direction X2locking member4may slide along guide surface103such that slidable body2slides, herein translates. When slidable body2is urged in second translation direction OX2locking member4may engage guide surface103such that slidable body2is prevented from sliding in second translation direction OX2by the friction forces due to the engagement of locking member4and guide surface103.

Mounting element101may comprise a release mechanism6, which is mechanically coupled to slidable body2so as to be operable between a lock state (FIGS.8,10and11) and a release state (FIG.9). Release mechanism6may be configured to cooperate with locking member4such that:iii) locking member4prevents slidable body2from sliding in the second translation direction OX2when the release mechanism6is in the lock state (FIGS.8,10and11), andiv) slidable body2is allowed to slide in the second translation direction OX2when the release mechanism6is in the release state (FIG.9).

As depicted inFIG.5locking member4may be comprised of a flat spring or leaf spring. Locking member4may be comprised of a polymer, an elastomer, or a sheet metal, for example of a spring steel. Locking member4may comprise an engagement part12for selective engagement of locking member4to guide surface103. Locking member4may further comprise a resilient part14, which is connected to engagement part12so as to allow engagement part12to move elastically. Engagement part12and resilient part14are herein illustrated as being made integral, and in particular in one-piece, with one another. Alternatively, engagement part12and resilient part14may be separate pieces that are mechanically linked.

As illustrated inFIGS.7and8, engagement part12and guide surface103may form an acute angle opening towards second end102.2of elongate mounting member102.

As illustrated inFIG.8, locking member4herein includes two engagement parts12and two resilient parts14. Engagement parts12may engage one or more respective sidewall(s)103.1of the elongate mounting member102. Resilient parts14may respectively support the engagement parts12. Locking member4can thus contact guide surface103on two different, opposite locations.

When telescopic extender1is in service, the engagement part12of the flat spring allows slidable body2to slide in first translation direction X2. In contrast, when telescopic extender1is in service, engagement part12of the flat spring engages guide surface103where it induces a high friction force, which prevents slidable body2from sliding in second translation direction OX2.

Engagement part12may extend at least in a lateral direction Y2crossing the first X2and the second OX2translation directions. Locking member4may be configured to be elastically deformed by release mechanism6so as to change an amplitude of the extension of the engagement part12in lateral direction Y2. In particular, at least one of the or each resilient part14and the or each engagement part12may be elastically deformed by release mechanism6.

Release mechanism6may be configured to be actuated by a manual force, for example by hand or by a hand tool. Release mechanism may be accessible from through the bottom wall, a sidewall or a top wall.

Release mechanism6may comprise a pushing portion8movable, for example herein to rotate, with respect to slidable body2. Pushing portion8may be configured to displace locking member4when release mechanism6is operated between the lock state (FIGS.8,10and11) and the release state (FIG.9).

Furthermore, release mechanism6may be configured to deform resilient part14so as to reduce the amplitude of the extension, along lateral direction Y2, of engagement part12when release mechanism6is in the release state ofFIG.9, as compared to the lock state ofFIGS.8,10and11.

InFIG.8, release mechanism6is depicted in the lock state and the locking member4, depicted as a leaf spring, has engagement parts12extending in lateral direction Y2with such an amplitude that engagement parts12engage sidewalls103.1of guide surface103. This engagement has the effect of resisting movement of the slidable member2in second translation direction OX2.

InFIG.9, release mechanism6is depicted in the release state, in which locking member4has engagement parts12extending in lateral direction Y2with a lesser extent or amplitude than in the lock state ofFIG.8, such that engagement parts12do not engage nor touch sidewalls103.1. In the release state slidable body2may be slid in second translation direction OX2, i.e. towards first end102.1of elongate mounting member102.

Release mechanism6may comprise two pushing portions8movable independently with respect to slidable body2. Engagement part12may be cantilevered so as protrude from slidable body2when release mechanism6is in the release state (FIG.9).

Engagement part12may be placed selectively:

i) in a contact configuration (FIGS.8,10and11; release mechanism6in lock state) wherein engagement part12a) may slide along guide surface103when slidable body2slides in the first translation direction X2, and b) may generate a friction forceFIG.14(FIG.8) against guide surface103so as to prevent slidable body2from sliding in the second translation direction OX2, and

ii) in a release configuration (FIG.9; release mechanism6in release state) wherein engagement part12does not contact guide surface103such that slidable body2may slide in the second translation direction OX2.

Guide surface103may extend not only near the second end102.2of elongate mounting member102but also along elongate mounting member102. Guide surface103may be made or coated with a friction-promoting material, like a polymeric material or a metallic material such as steel. Likewise, engagement part12of locking member4may be made or coated of a complementary friction-promoting material, like steel or a polymer, so as to allow engagement part12to generate a friction force F14(FIG.8).

Elongate mounting member102may form a housing configured to substantially accommodate extension mechanism104in its extended state. A portion of elongate mounting member102may thus substantially surround a portion of extension mechanism104and a portion of telescopic extender1, such that, in a cross-sectional direction (i.e. perpendicular to longitudinal direction X), extension mechanism104and telescopic extender1cannot be separated from elongate mounting member102while they are slidable parallel to first translation direction X2.

As illustrated onFIGS.8and9, slidable body2may have at least one outer extension18arranged to overlap a portion of guide surface103. When mounting element is in an assembled state (FIGS.8and9), telescopic extender1protrudes from second end102.2of elongate mounting member102and outer extension18covers an outer, lateral portion of elongate mounting member102.

Slidable body2may have a stopping portion16arranged to prevent the resilient part14from moving beyond the contact configuration (release mechanism6in lock state) in the first translation direction X2. Resilient part14may be movable between: i) a stop position in which resilient part14lies against the stopping portion16, and ii) a distant position in which resilient part14is distant from the stopping portion16.

Resilient part14may be less deformed in the distant position than in the stop position. For example, resilient part14may be in its rest state when in the distant position. Alternatively to this example, resilient part14may be already deformed or loaded when it stands in the distant position, and needs to be further deformed, hence more loaded, in order to reach the stop position.

Telescopic extender1may further comprise an abutment device20configured to abut opposing mounting surface304. Abutment device20may be composed of any suitable material, for example of an elastomeric material or a metallic material. Abutment device20may be formed substantially of a rectangular plate.

As illustrated inFIG.2, mounting element101may further comprise a holding part22configured to hold an end of the architectural covering202. Holding part22may be secured to the bottom face of elongate mounting member102, for example by means of glue, screw, rivets or welds. Holding part22may be a bracket having a hole for supporting a mounting structure206of architectural covering202. As illustrated inFIGS.1to4, a similar holding part may be secured to the first end102.1such that both ends of mounting structure206are supported.

FIGS.12and13illustrate a second embodiment of a telescopic extender1to be received at least partially within a not shown mounting element that is substantially similar to the one illustrated inFIGS.1to11. Inasmuch as telescopic extender1ofFIGS.12and13is similar to telescopic extender1ofFIGS.1to11, the afore-detailed description may be applied to telescopic extender1ofFIGS.12and13, but for the hereinafter mentioned noticeable differences. An element of telescopic extender1ofFIGS.12and13having a structure or function substantially similar to an element of telescopic extender1ofFIGS.1to11is given the same reference sign or number. Even though two or more figures illustrating different embodiments may have such elements that are structurally and/or functionally similar, the presence of a same reference sign or number in otherwise different embodiments should not be understood as limiting the disclosure to the specific element nor the scope of protection of the claimed subject-matter.

Telescopic extender1ofFIGS.12and13mainly differs from telescopic extender1ofFIGS.1to11in that holding part22may be secured to telescopic extender1. For example, holding part22may be secured to the abutment device20, optionally by means of glue, screw, rivets or welds.

Telescopic extender1ofFIGS.12and13further differs from telescopic extender1ofFIGS.1to11in that abutment device20may have a manipulation part, which may herein be formed by holding part22, which is configured to be manipulated such that an operator may move slidable body2in first translation direction X2and in second translation direction OX2as telescopic extender1comprises a release mechanism6. Holding part22may be coupled to or optionally integral with, telescopic extender1.

Thus, holding part22may move together with telescopic extender1. Holding part22ends up very close to opposing mounting surface304, which minimizes the light gap between opposing mounting surface304(window frame) and architectural covering202.

FIGS.14to18illustrate a third embodiment of a mounting element101. Inasmuch as mounting element101ofFIGS.14to18is similar to mounting element101ofFIGS.1to11, the afore-detailed description may be applied to mounting element101ofFIGS.14to18, but for the hereinafter mentioned noticeable differences. An element of mounting element101ofFIGS.14to18having a structure or function substantially similar to an element of mounting element101ofFIGS.1to11is given the same reference sign or number. Even though two or more figures illustrating different embodiments may have such elements that are structurally and/or functionally similar, the presence of a same reference sign or number in otherwise different embodiments should not be understood as limiting the disclosure to the specific element nor the scope of protection of the claimed subject-matter.

Like mounting element101ofFIGS.1to11, mounting element101ofFIGS.14to18may comprise an elongate mounting member102, a not shown extension mechanism, and a telescopic extender1, which are similar to the ones depicted inFIGS.1to11. Telescopic extender1may for example comprise a slidable body2with slide faces2.1, a locking member4having two engagement parts12and two resilient parts14, and a release mechanism6having two pushing portions8. Locking member4may allow telescopic extender1to slide in first translation direction X2, but locking member4may generate a friction force F14to prevent telescopic extender1from sliding in second translation direction OX2. Release mechanism6may reduce the amplitude of the extension of engagement part12in lateral direction Y2when release mechanism6is in the release state.

Mounting element101ofFIGS.14to18mainly differs from mounting element101ofFIGS.1to11in that the pushing portions8may be movable simultaneously instead of independently with respect to slidable body2. The two pushing portions8may for example be integral, for example one-piece, with one another such that they rotate or pivot simultaneously. Thus, a user can easily and quickly rotate simultaneously both pushing portions8.

Mounting element101ofFIGS.14to18further differs from mounting element101ofFIGS.1to11in that slidable body2does not have an outer extension arranged to overlap a portion of the guide surface of the elongate mounting member.

FIGS.19and20illustrate a fourth embodiment of a mounting element101. Inasmuch as mounting element101ofFIGS.19and20is similar to mounting element101ofFIGS.1to11, the afore-detailed description may be applied to mounting element101ofFIGS.19and20, but for the hereinafter mentioned noticeable differences. An element of mounting element101ofFIGS.19and20having a structure or function substantially similar to an element of mounting element101ofFIGS.1to11is given the same reference sign or number. Even though two or more figures illustrating different embodiments may have such elements that are structurally and/or functionally similar, the presence of a same reference sign or number in otherwise different embodiments should not be understood as limiting the disclosure to the specific element nor the scope of protection of the claimed subject-matter.

Like mounting element101ofFIGS.1to11, mounting element101ofFIGS.19and20may comprise an elongate mounting member102, a not shown extension mechanism, and a telescopic extender1, which are similar to the ones depicted inFIGS.1to11. Telescopic extender1may for example comprise a slidable body2, a locking member4having two engagement parts12and two resilient parts14, and a release mechanism6.

Mounting element101ofFIGS.19and20mainly differs from mounting element101ofFIGS.1to11in that the locking member4has one engagement part12, instead of two, and one resilient part14, instead of two. The sole engagement part12may be configured to engage the guide surface of elongate mounting member102. The sole resilient part14is connected to engagement part12so as to allow engagement part12to move elastically.

Further, mounting element101ofFIGS.19and20differs from mounting element101ofFIGS.1to11in that release mechanism6may have only one pushing portion8, which is configured to reduce the amplitude of the extension of engagement part12in a lateral direction when release mechanism6is operably moved by a user into the release state.

Besides, mounting element101ofFIGS.19and20differs from mounting element101ofFIGS.1to11in that the flat spring forming locking member4may have a securing portion4.2that is inserted in a notch extending in slidable body2and that is folded around a portion of slidable body2, so as to secure locking member4to slidable body2. Thus, mounting element1ofFIGS.19and20may be relatively easy to manufacture and to assemble.

FIGS.21to23illustrate a fifth embodiment of a mounting element101. Inasmuch as mounting element101ofFIGS.21to23is similar to mounting element101ofFIGS.1to11, the afore-detailed description may be applied to mounting element101ofFIGS.21to23, but for the hereinafter mentioned noticeable differences. An element of mounting element101ofFIGS.21to23having a structure or function substantially similar to an element of mounting element101ofFIGS.1to11is given the same reference sign or number. Even though two or more figures illustrating different embodiments may have such elements that are structurally and/or functionally similar, the presence of a same reference sign or number in otherwise different embodiments should not be understood as limiting the disclosure to the specific element nor the scope of protection of the claimed subject-matter.

Like mounting element101ofFIGS.1to11, mounting element101ofFIGS.21to23may comprise an elongate mounting member102, a not shown extension mechanism, and a telescopic extender1, which are similar to the ones depicted inFIGS.1to11. Telescopic extender1may for example comprise a slidable body2, a locking member4having two engagement parts12and two resilient parts14, a release mechanism6, and a stopping portion16.

Mounting element101ofFIGS.21to23mainly differs from mounting element101ofFIGS.1to11in that release mechanism6does not have any rotatable pushing portion. Further, mounting element1ofFIGS.21to23differs from mounting element101ofFIGS.1to11in that a central portion of locking member4may be displaced with respect to slidable body2between i) the lock state and ii) the release state, whereas the central part of locking member4ofFIGS.1to11is fixed with respect to slidable body2. Thus, mounting element1ofFIGS.21to23may be comprised of a relatively small number of components. Resilient part14of locking member4is elastically deformed as it abuts against a receiving surface2.4of slidable body2.

FIGS.24to26illustrate a mounting device101according to a second, independent aspect. Inasmuch as mounting device101ofFIGS.24to26is similar to mounting element101ofFIGS.1to11, the afore-detailed description may be applied to mounting device101ofFIGS.24to26, but for the hereinafter mentioned noticeable differences. An element of mounting device101ofFIGS.24to26having a structure or function substantially similar to an element of mounting element101ofFIGS.1to11is given the same reference sign or number. Even though two or more figures illustrating different embodiments may have such elements that are structurally and/or functionally similar, the presence of a same reference sign or number in otherwise different embodiments should not be understood as limiting the disclosure to the specific element nor the scope of protection of the claimed subject-matter.

Like mounting element101ofFIGS.1to11, mounting device101ofFIGS.24to26may comprise an elongate mounting member102, and a telescopic extender1, which are similar to the ones depicted inFIGS.1to11. Telescopic extender1may for example comprise a slidable body2, a locking member4having two engagement parts12and two resilient parts14, and a release mechanism6. Locking member4may allow telescopic extender1to slide in first translation direction X2, but locking member4may generate a friction force F14(FIG.24) to prevent telescopic extender1from sliding in second translation direction OX2. Release mechanism6may reduce the amplitude of the extension of engagement part12in lateral direction Y2, when release mechanism6is in the release state.

Mounting device101ofFIGS.24to26mainly differs from mounting element101ofFIGS.1to11in that it is configured to mechanically connect, for example splice, an outer elongate mounting member102.0to an inner elongate mounting member102.1.

Mounting device101ofFIGS.24to26mainly differs from mounting element101ofFIGS.1to11in that it does not have an extension mechanism. Telescopic extender1ofFIGS.24to26is fully arranged inside the outer elongate mounting members102.0and partially inside the inner elongate mounting member102.1, such that telescopic extender1does not protrude out of mounting device101. Telescopic extender1is arranged between outer elongate mounting member102.0and inner elongate mounting member102.1. Telescopic extender1is substantially surrounded by outer elongate mounting member102.0. Thus, the outer elongate mounting members102.0and the inner elongate mounting member102.1may be mechanically connected, for example spliced, by the mounting device101.

When mounting element101is put in service, mounting element101may enable the user to easily and finely adjust the overall length of mounting element101to the dimension of architectural recess300. The user may conveniently draw, with only one hand, slidable body2outwards and easily select any adjustment position along the continuous displacement of slidable body2as allowed by locking member4. The user may stop slidable body2, which is then prevented from returning backwards by locking member4.

The selected adjustment position cannot be unwittingly unsettled. After such easy adjustment, the user may place mounting element101in architectural recess300and the user may move, with only one hand, extension mechanism104from the retracted state (FIGS.1and3) to the extended state (FIGS.2and4).

With respect to the background art devices it has proved easier to quickly adjust and durably maintain the overall length of mounting element101, in which extension mechanism104and telescopic element1work in a combined manner at both ends of mounting element101. It only takes two hands, without any tool nor any help needed from another person, whereas the background art devices would require two persons and/or tools to mount architectural covering200in architectural recess300.

Furthermore, the forces exerted in a combined manner by extension mechanism104and telescopic extender1are strong enough to retain mounting element101in architectural recess300durably over time, even with a heavy blind.

The second aspect may form the subject-matter of a claim to patent protection independently from the first object.

Although some exemplary embodiments and aspects have been described above in relation to the exemplary drawings, the present disclosure is not limited to the exemplary embodiments and aspects described above and illustrated in the exemplary drawings wherein the reference numbers are only provided as non-limiting examples. Many changes and alternatives may be made by the skilled person within the scope of the present disclosure, which scope shall not be limited to the appended drawings. The features of the respective exemplary embodiments and aspects may be interchangeably implemented and/or combined in any technically feasible way as long as the resulting subject-matter is covered by the appended claims.

In the foregoing description, it will be appreciated that the phrases “at least one”, “one or more”, and “and/or”, as used herein, are open-ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. The term “a” or “an” entity, as used herein, refers to one or more of that entity. As such, the terms “a” (or “an”), “one or more” and “at least one” can be used interchangeably herein. All directional references (e.g., proximal, distal, upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, lateral, longitudinal, front, back, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, radial, axial, clockwise, counterclockwise, and/or the like) are only used for identification purposes to aid the reader's understanding of the present disclosure, and/or serve to distinguish regions of the associated elements from one another, and do not limit the associated element, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use of this disclosure. Connection references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, and joined) are to be construed broadly and may include intermediate members between a collection of elements and relative movement between elements unless otherwise indicated. As such, connection references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and in fixed relation to each other. Identification references (e.g., primary, secondary, first, second, third, fourth, etc.) are not intended to connote importance or priority, but are used to distinguish one feature from another.

All apparatuses and methods discussed in this document are examples of apparatuses and/or methods implemented in accordance with one or more principles of this disclosure. These examples are not the only way to implement these principles but are merely examples. Thus, references to elements or structures or features in the drawings must be appreciated as references to examples of embodiments of the disclosure, and should not be understood as limiting the disclosure to the specific elements, structures, or features illustrated. Other examples of manners of implementing the disclosed principles will occur to a person of ordinary skill in the art upon reading this disclosure.

It will be appreciated that although some components are illustrated as separate elements, any two or all three components may be consolidated into an integral element instead.

The or each embodiment illustrated in the figures has several separate and independent features, which each, at least alone, has unique benefits which are desirable for, yet not critical to, the presently disclosed mounting element or device. Therefore, the various separate features described herein need not all be present in order to achieve at least some of the desired characteristics and/or benefits described herein. One or more separate features may be combined, or only one of the various features need be present in a mounting element or device formed in accordance with various principles of the present disclosure. Moreover, throughout the present disclosure, reference numbers are used to indicate a generic element or feature of the disclosed embodiment. The same reference number may be used to indicate elements or features that are not identical in form, shape, structure, etc., yet which provide similar functions or benefits. Additional reference characters (such as letters, as opposed to numbers) may be used to differentiate similar elements or features from one another.

The foregoing description has broad application. It should be appreciated that the concepts disclosed herein may apply to many types of shades, in addition to the shades described and depicted herein. Similarly, it should be appreciated that the concepts disclosed herein may apply to many types of mounting elements or devices, in addition to the mounting element or device101described and depicted herein. The discussion of any embodiment is meant only to be explanatory and is not intended to suggest that the scope of the disclosure, including the claims, is limited to these embodiments. In other words, while illustrative embodiments of the disclosure have been described in detail herein, it is to be understood that the inventive concepts may be otherwise variously embodied and employed, and that the appended claims are intended to be construed to include such variations, except as limited by the prior art.

While the foregoing description and drawings represent various embodiments, it will be understood that various additions, modifications, and substitutions may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. In particular, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that principles of the present disclosure may be embodied in other forms, structures, arrangements, proportions, and with other elements, materials, and components, without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the disclosure may be used with many modifications of structure, arrangement, proportions, materials, and components and otherwise, used in the practice of the disclosure, which are particularly adapted to specific environments and operative requirements without departing from the principles of the present disclosure. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, the size or dimensions of the elements may be varied. The presently disclosed embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the invention being indicated by the appended claims, and not limited to the foregoing description.

While a mounting element or device formed in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure is particularly shown and described herein with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments may be used with many additions, substitutions, or modifications of form, structure, arrangement, proportions, materials, and components and otherwise, used in the practice of the disclosure, which are particularly adapted to specific environments and operative requirements without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. The presently disclosed embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the invention being indicated by the appended claims, and not limited to the foregoing description.

While the foregoing description and drawings represent examples of embodiments of the present subject matter, it will be understood that various additions, modifications, and substitutions may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present subject matter or the principles thereof. For instance, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that the present subject matter may be embodied in other specific forms, structures, arrangements, proportions, and with other elements, materials, components, and otherwise, such as may be particularly adapted to specific environments and operative requirements, without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. While the disclosure is presented in terms of embodiments, it should be appreciated that the various separate features of the present subject matter need not all be present in order to achieve at least some of the desired characteristics and/or benefits of the present subject matter or such individual features. It will be appreciated that various features of the disclosure are grouped together in one or more aspects, embodiments, or configurations for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. However, various features of the certain aspects, embodiments, or configurations of the disclosure may be combined in alternate aspects, embodiments, or configurations, and features described with respect to one embodiment typically may be applied to another embodiment, whether or not explicitly indicated. Accordingly, individual features of any embodiment may be used and can be claimed separately or in combination with features of that embodiment or any other embodiment. Moreover, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, the size or dimensions of the elements may be varied. Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited to only the embodiments specifically described herein. The presently disclosed embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the claimed subject matter being indicated by the appended claims, and not limited to the foregoing description.