Wand assembly for use with a vertical architectural-structure covering

A wand assembly for use with an architectural-structure covering is disclosed. The wand assembly may include a first operating element (e.g., an operating cord) for moving the covering between extended and retracted positions and a second operating element (e.g., a tilt wand) for adjusting rotation of the covering between open and closed configurations. The first and second operating elements are coupled to a handle assembly via separate and distinct coupling mechanisms so that manipulation of the second operating element does not affect the first operating element thereby preventing twisting of the first operating element about the second operating element. The wand assembly may include a first, inner rotatable wand and a second, stationary outer wand. The inner wand is rotatable relative to the outer wand so that rotation of the inner wand does not rotate the outer wand, and hence the first operating element coupled to the outer wand.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates generally to the field of architectural-structure coverings, and relates more particularly to an improved wand assembly for use in an architectural-structure covering such as a vertical architectural-structure covering (e.g., horizontally-extending and retracting architectural-structure covering).

BACKGROUND

Architectural-structure coverings may selectively cover an architectural structure such as, for example, a window, a doorway, a skylight, a hallway, a portion of a wall, etc. Architectural-structure coverings may come in a variety of configurations. One common type of architectural-structure covering is a vertical (horizontally-extending) architectural-structure covering.

A vertical (horizontally-extending) architectural-structure covering may include a head rail assembly and a covering. In use, the covering or components thereof (e.g., loops, vanes, etc.) are vertically suspended from the head rail assembly. The head rail assembly is operatively associated with a control system. The architectural-structure covering may also include an operating mechanism including one or more operating elements such as, for example, a tilt wand and a pull cord system (e.g., an operating cord). In use, the operating cord may be used to move the covering between an extended position and a retracted position. As will be readily appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, in the extended position, the covering may extend widthwise across the architectural structure (e.g., window), while in the retracted position, the covering may be retracted to reveal the architectural structure. That is, in use, the operating cord may be manipulated by a user to extend and to retract (e.g., move) the covering in a horizontal direction along a length of the head rail assembly. Thus, the operating cord may be manipulated to control or adjust the amount of extension or retraction of the covering across the architectural structure.

In addition, the one or more operating elements (e.g., tilt wand) may also operatively control or adjust the angle or tilt of the covering or components thereof to move the covering or components thereof between an open configuration and a closed configuration. As will be readily appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, in the open configuration, the covering or components thereof are rotated, pivoted, tilted, etc. (used interchangeably herein without the intent to limit) so that view through the covering is possible, while in the closed configuration, the covering or components thereof are rotated relative to each other to prevent, or at least substantially inhibit, view through. Thus, in use, the tilt wand may be manipulated to pivot the covering or components thereof. That is, with the covering in the extended position, the tilt wand may be manipulated by a user to pivot the covering or components thereof to substantially block view through. By controlling or adjusting the rotation of the covering or components thereof in the extended position and by moving the covering between the extended and retracted positions, the user can control or adjust view through the covering and hence, as applied to coverings or windows, the user is able to vary the amount of natural light permitted to enter, for example, the room via the window by adjusting the angular position of the covering or components thereof.

Generally speaking, the control system includes a plurality of carriers (generally vertically extending) from which the covering is suspended, and a tilt rod that extends longitudinally within the head rail assembly. In use, operation of the one or more operating elements manipulate the carriers. That is, during use, the carriers are movably positioned within the head rail assembly (e.g., slidably movable along a length of the head rail assembly) so as to move the covering between the extended and retracted positions. For example, generally speaking, the operating cord extends into and along a length of the head rail assembly. During use, manipulation of the operating cord controls or adjusts movement of the carriers between the extended and retracted positions. In addition, manipulation of the tilt wand pivotably moves the covering between the open and closed configurations. For example, each of the carriers includes a carrier body, a gear, and a hanger pin for coupling to the covering. The tilt rod passes through an opening formed in each of the carrier bodies. The tilt rod includes circumferentially spaced teeth that mesh with the gear positioned in each of the carriers. Manipulation of the tilt wand rotates the tilt rod, which is operatively coupled to the gear located in each of the carriers. Thus arranged, rotation of the tilt rod causes the gear to rotate relative to the carrier body, which, in turn, causes the hanger pin to rotate, which pivots the covering between the open and closed configurations.

Additional information on the structure and operation of known vertical (horizontally-extending) architectural-structure coverings including the control system, operating mechanism, and the components thereof, can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,853,039 entitled “Coupler for the Tilt Wand and Pull Cord of a Covering on Architectural Opening”; U.S. Pat. No. 6,360,806 entitled “Operation, Control and Suspension System for a Vertical Vane Covering for Architectural Openings”; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,491,085 entitled “Control and Suspension System for a Vertical Vane Covering for Architectural Openings”.

One common issue with known operating mechanisms that utilize a first operating element (e.g., operating cord) to move the covering between the extended and retracted positions, and a second operating element (e.g., tilt wand) to rotate or tilt the covering between the open and closed configurations is that manipulation of the tilt wand may cause the operating cord to twist about the tilt wand, especially if the operating cord is not securely held while operating the tilt wand (e.g., operating cord twists about the shaft of the tilt wand). As such, proper operation requires a user to use both hands—one to operate or rotate the tilt wand and the other to hold the operating cord. In addition, known wand assemblies incorporate two gripping parts—a first gripping part generally positioned about midway on the wand assembly to hold the operating cord and a second gripping part generally positioned at the bottom of the wand assembly.

In addition, operation of the first and second operating elements is not always intuitive, thus causing some users to be confused as to which operating element performs which function.

It is with respect to these and other considerations that the present improvements may be useful.

SUMMARY

This Summary is provided to introduce in a simplified form, a selection of concepts that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary 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 operating element or wand assembly for use in an architectural-structure covering such as, for example, a vertical (horizontally-extending) architectural-structure covering. In use, the wand assembly includes a gripping part arranged and configured for single-handed operation. In use, the gripping part enables a user to rotate or tilt the covering or components thereof, while preventing, or at least minimizing, twisting of the operating cords used to move the covering between the extended and retracted positions (e.g., the wand assembly includes a single gripping part at a bottom end configured for single-handed operation. The single gripping part is arranged and configured to manipulate the tilt wand for rotating the covering while ensuring that the operating cord does not twist about the tilt wand).

In one example of an embodiment, the wand assembly includes a first operating element such as, for example, an operating cord, for moving the covering horizontally between the extended and retracted positions and a second operating element such as, for example, a tilt wand assembly, for controlling or adjusting the angle or tilt of the covering, or components thereof, between the open and closed configurations. In one example of an embodiment, the wand assembly further includes a handle assembly. In use, the first operating element (e.g., the operating cord) is coupled to the handle assembly. In addition, the second operating element (e.g., tilt wand) is coupled to the handle assembly. The coupling of the second operating element to the handle assembly is separate and distinct from the coupling of the first operating element to the handle assembly so that manipulation (e.g., rotation) of the second operating element (e.g., tilt wand) is not transferred to the first operating element (e.g., operating cord).

In one example of an embodiment, this is achieved by incorporating and/or operatively coupling the handle assembly to a first, inner or rotatable wand or shaft; and a second, outer or static wand or shaft. In use, the inner wand is operatively coupled to or is part of the tilt wand, which is operatively coupled to the tilt rod of the control system located in the head rail assembly. The first operating element (e.g., operating cord) is coupled to the outer wand. The inner wand is rotatable relative to the outer wand. Thus arranged, the inner wand is arranged and configured to be manipulated by a user to move the covering between the open and closed configurations. In addition, the operating cord is arranged and configured to be manipulated by the user to move the covering between the extended and retracted positions. By separating the connection of the operating cord from the rotatable inner wand, manipulation of the inner wand (e.g., rotation of the inner wand) is not transferred to the operating cord thereby preventing twisting of the operating cord about the tilt wand assembly.

In accordance with another separate and distinct aspect of the present disclosure, the wand assembly may include a cord tensioner operatively coupled with the operating cord. In use, the cord tensioner is arranged and configured to selectively tension the operating cord relative to the outer wand to maintain the operating cord in a taunt condition.

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide numerous advantages. For example, providing a wand assembly that separately connects the first and second operating elements enables a user to manipulate (e.g., rotate) the tilt wand in a vertical (horizontally-extending) architectural-structure covering without twisting the operating cord used to move the covering between the extended and retracted positions about the tilt wand. Thus arranged, the wand assembly provides an aesthetically pleasing, intuitive assembly that is arranged and configured for single-handed operation (e.g., not necessary for the user to hold the operating cords while manipulating the tilt wand).

Further features and advantages of at least some of the embodiments of the present disclosure, as well as the structure and operation of various embodiments of the present disclosure, are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various features, aspects, or the like of an improved wand assembly or operating elements (used interchangeably herein without the intent to limit) for use with an architectural-structure covering will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which one or more aspects of the wand assembly will be shown and described. It should be appreciated that the various features, aspects, or the like may be used independently of, or in combination, with each other. It will be appreciated that a wand assembly as disclosed herein may be embodied in many different forms and may selectively include one or more concepts, features, or functions described herein. As such, the wand assembly should not be construed as being limited to the specific embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will convey certain aspects of the wand assembly to those skilled in the art. In the drawings, like numbers refer to like elements throughout unless otherwise noted.

It should be understood that, as described herein, an “embodiment” (such as illustrated in the accompanying Figures) may refer to an illustrative representation of an environment or article or component in which a disclosed concept or feature may be provided or embodied, or to the representation of a manner in which just the concept or feature may be provided or embodied. However, such illustrated embodiments are to be understood as examples (unless otherwise stated), and other manners of embodying the described concepts or features, such as may be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art upon learning the concepts or features from the present disclosure, are within the scope of the disclosure. In addition, it will be appreciated that while the Figures may show one or more embodiments of concepts or features together in a single embodiment of an environment, article, or component incorporating such concepts or features, such concepts or features are to be understood (unless otherwise specified) as independent of and separate from one another and are shown together for the sake of convenience and without intent to limit to being present or used together. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used separately, or 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.

As will be described in greater detail below, the wand assembly of the present disclosure may be used in connection with a control system of an architectural-structure covering such as, for example, a vertical or horizontally-extending (hereinafter “vertical”) architectural-structure covering. Generally speaking, vertical architectural-structure coverings may be movable between an extended position and a retracted position. In this manner, the covering of the architectural-structure covering may be moved between the extended position, where the covering extends widthwise across a head rail assembly so that the architectural structure (e.g., window) is covered, and the retracted position, where the covering is positioned or stacked adjacent to one or both ends of the head rail assembly so that the architectural structure is substantially exposed. In addition, the covering or components thereof may be tiltable, rotatable, pivotable, etc. (used interchangeably herein without the intent to limit) so that the angle of the covering or the components thereof may be controlled or adjusted so that the covering or components thereof may be moved between an open configuration, in which the covering or components thereof are orientated so that view through the covering is possible, and a closed configuration, in which the covering or components thereof are orientated to prevent, or at least substantially inhibit, view through (e.g., covering or components thereof are rotatable to block, or at least substantially block, view through).

Referring toFIGS. 1 and 2, a vertical architectural-structure covering10is shown. Although a particular example of a vertical architectural-structure covering10is shown, many different types and styles exist and could be employed in place of the example vertical architectural-structure covering10ofFIGS. 1 and 2. In addition, while the improved wand assembly of the present disclosure will be described and illustrated in connection with controlling or adjusting the movement of the control system such as, for example, the carriers, and hence of the covering or components thereof in a vertical architectural-structure covering, it should be appreciated that the wand assembly may have other applications. As such, the wand assembly should not be limited solely for use with the vertical architectural-structure covering shown.

As shown, the vertical architectural-structure covering assembly10may include a head rail assembly20and a covering30(FIG. 2, portions omitted fromFIG. 1for clarity). In use, the covering30or components thereof may be suspended from the head rail assembly20. In one embodiment, the covering30may be manufactured from a continuous sheet of material. Alternatively, the covering30may be manufactured from individual strips of material that may be coupled together. In yet another embodiment, the covering30may be made of a plurality of individual vanes. The covering30may be manufactured from any suitable material now known or hereafter developed including, for example, fabrics, plastics, metal, etc.

The head rail assembly20may include, for example, brackets (not shown) for mounting the vertical architectural-structure covering10to a wall or other structure. As will be readily appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, the covering30of the vertical architectural-structure covering10may be suspended from the head rail assembly20and may be movable along a length of the head rail assembly20between an extended position (shown inFIG. 2), to a partially retracted position, and further to a fully retracted position. In addition, the covering30or components thereof may be rotatable to control or adjust the amount of view through of the covering30, for example, in the extended position.

As shown, the head rail assembly20includes a control system100for moving the covering30between the extended and retracted positions, and for moving (e.g., tilting, pivoting, rotating, etc.—terms used interchangeably without the intent to limit) the covering30, or components thereof, between the open and closed configurations. As will be described in greater detail below, the control system100is at least partially positionable within the head rail assembly20. The control system100includes a tilt rod110and a plurality of carriers130. As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, the control system100may include any number of carriers130, the number of carriers130being partially dependent on the length of the vertical architectural-structure covering10and the desired distance between portions of the covering30. Each carrier130includes a coupling mechanism140(FIG. 2) for coupling to the covering30or components thereof.

In the illustrated embodiment, the vertical architectural-structure covering10also includes an operating mechanism, which is operatively coupled to the wand assembly200. In use, the operating mechanism operatively couples the wand assembly200with the control system100to move the covering30between the extended and retracted positions, and to control or adjust the angle of the covering30or components thereof to control or adjust the rotation of the covering30or components thereof. As will be described in greater detail below, in one example of an embodiment, the wand assembly200includes a first operating element210for moving the covering30between the extended and retracted positions and a second operating element250for controlling or adjusting the position, orientation, configuration, angle, etc. (used interchangeably herein without the intent to limit) of the covering30or components thereof (e.g., the second operating element250may be used to rotate the tilt rod110so that the covering30or components thereof can be pivoted about respective longitudinal vertical axes extending through the carriers130between an open configuration wherein the covering30and/or components thereof are positioned to permit view through the covering30and a closed configuration wherein the covering30and/or components thereof are rotated to block, or at least substantially block, the passage of light and view through the covering30).

As will be described in greater detail below and as will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, in one example of an embodiment, the first operating element210is in the form of an operating cord or pull cord212for moving the covering30between the extended and retracted positions. That is, in use, the operating cord212is operatively coupled to the carriers130within the head rail assembly20so that movement of the operating cord212moves the carriers130, and hence the covering30, along the length of the head rail assembly20. As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, the operating cord212may be arranged as an endless loop so that operating (e.g., pulling) one side of the operating cord212causes the carriers130to move in a first direction (e.g., extension direction) while operating (e.g., pulling) on the opposite side of the operating cord212causes the carriers130to move in the second, opposite direction (e.g., retraction direction). In use, the operating cord212can be operatively coupled to the carriers130by any now known or hereafter developed method including, for example, those known and described in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,853,039 entitled “Coupler for the Tilt Wand and Pull Cord of a Covering on Architectural Opening”; U.S. Pat. No. 6,360,806 entitled “Operation, Control and Suspension System for a Vertical Vane Covering for Architectural Openings”; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,491,085 entitled “Control and Suspension System for a Vertical Vane Covering for Architectural Openings”.

As will be described herein, the features according to the present disclosure may be used with any suitable architectural-structure covering now known or hereafter developed. As such, the features of the present disclosure that will be described herein should not be limited to the details of the architectural-structure covering unless specifically claimed.

For the sake of convenience and clarity, terms such as “front,” “rear,” “top,” “bottom,” “up,” “down,” “vertical,” “horizontal”, “inner,” and “outer” may be used herein to describe the relative placement and orientation of various components and portions of the vertical architectural-structure covering10, and are non-limiting. Said terminology will include the words specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import.

In one accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, the integrated wand assembly200may include or be operatively associated with the first operating element210(e.g., the operating cord212) for moving the covering30horizontally between the extended and retracted positions, and the second operating element250(e.g., tilt wand252) for controlling or adjusting the angle of the covering30or components thereof between the open and closed configurations. In one example of an embodiment, as will be described in greater detail below, the integrated wand assembly200includes a first or inner rotatable wand or shaft, and a second or outer, static wand or shaft. In use, the first operating element210(e.g., operating cord212) is coupled to the outer wand. Meanwhile, the second operating element250(e.g., tilt wand252) is operatively coupled to the inner wand so that, in use, the inner wand is coupled to the tilt rod110of the control system100located in the head rail assembly20. The inner wand is rotatable relative to the outer wand. Thus arranged, the inner wand is arranged and configured to be manipulated by a user to move the covering30between the open and closed configurations. In addition, the operating cord212is arranged and configured to be manipulated by the user to move the covering30between the extended and retracted positions. By separating connection of the operating cord212from the rotatable inner wand, manipulation of the inner wand (e.g., rotation of the inner wand) is not transferred to the operating cord212, thereby preventing twisting of the operating cord212about the tilt wand252(e.g., not causing the operating cord212to twist about the tilt wand252).

Referring now toFIGS. 3, 4, and 16, in one example of an embodiment, an improved integrated wand assembly200will now be described. As shown, the integrated wand assembly200may include an inner wand310(FIGS. 4 and 16), an outer wand330, and a handle assembly350. In use, the inner wand310is rotatable relative to the outer wand330. Moreover, in one embodiment, the inner wand310is operatively coupled to the control system100in the head rail assembly20. The upper end of the inner wand310may be coupled to the control system100by any now known or hereafter developed mechanism such as, for example, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,360,806 to Bowman et al. In use, manipulation of the inner wand310manipulates the control system100including, for example, the tilt rod110and the plurality of carriers130to move the covering30between the opened and closed configurations. As such, the inner wand310may be configured as, or be operatively coupled to, the tilt wand252.

Moreover, referring toFIGS. 1-2A, a flexible coupler205may be used to couple the wand assembly200to the head rail assembly20. That is, the flexible coupler205may be used to couple the outer wand330to the head rail assembly20. In use, the flexible coupler205is arranged and configured to cover the connection between the outer wand330and the head rail assembly20. In addition, in one example of an embodiment, the flexible coupler205is arranged and configured to allow multi-direction movement (e.g., universal pivoting) of the wand assembly200with respect to the head rail assembly20. That is, the flexible coupler205may be arranged and configured to provide universal pivoting between the outer wand330and the head rail assembly20. In addition, the inner wand310may be coupled to the control system100by a coupling mechanism arranged and configured to provide universal pivoting between the inner wand310and the control system100. Thus arranged, in one example of an embodiment, the wand assembly200is allowed to universally pivot relative to the head rail assembly20. In one example of an embodiment, the flexible coupler205is inherently stiff enough to prevent rotation of the outer wand330. In one embodiment, an adapter may be used to operatively couple the outer wand330to the flexible coupler205to prevent, or at least substantially inhibit, rotation of the outer wand330.

The lower end of the inner wand310may be operatively coupled to a portion of the handle assembly350so that manipulation of the handle assembly350(e.g., rotation) manipulates, moves, rotates, etc. the inner wand310, which manipulates, moves, rotates, etc. the tilt rod110, which moves the covering30or components thereof between the open and closed configurations. Thus arranged, for the sake of convenience, the inner wand310may also be referred to as a rotatable wand, a non-static wand, an operating wand, and/or the tilt wand.

In one example of an embodiment, as will be described in greater detail below, the first operating element210(e.g., operating cord212) for moving the covering30between the extended and retracted positions is operatively coupled, or at least stabilized, held in place, or the like, to the outer wand330. As previously mentioned, in use, the outer wand330is non-rotatably coupled to the flexible coupler205, which is non-rotatably coupled to the head rail assembly20. Thus arranged, the outer wand330may also be referred to as a static wand. In one embodiment, the operating cord212may be coupled to the outer wand330by any now known or hereafter developed mechanism for preventing relative rotation between the operating cord212and the outer wand330while enabling the operating cord212to be manipulated (e.g., pulled) by the user to move the covering30between the extended and retracted positions.

Referring toFIGS. 3, 4, 11, 12, and 16, the handle assembly350may include a handle or gripping portion360. In use, the handle portion360is operatively coupled to the inner wand310so that rotation of the handle portion360rotates the inner wand310, and hence the tilt rod110and the covering30, or components thereof, between the open and closed configurations. As will be described in greater detail, the handle portion360is decoupled (e.g., not engaged or coupled) from the outer wand330so that rotation of the handle portion360does not rotate, affect, manipulate, etc. the outer wand330. Thus arranged, rotation of the handle portion360and hence the inner wand310is not transferred to the outer wand330, and hence to the operating cord212, thus preventing, or at least minimizing, twisting of the operating cord212about the outer wand330. Referring toFIG. 11, the handle portion360includes a top end361, a bottom end362, and a bore363extending between the top and bottom ends361,362.

The handle portion360may be coupled to the inner wand310by any now known or hereafter developed mechanism for achieving the function, operation, result, and/or operation described herein. Referring toFIGS. 4 and 13-16, in one example of an embodiment, the handle assembly350may include a handle retainer370and a bottom cap380. As will be described in greater detail below, the handle retainer370and the bottom cap380are coupled to the handle portion360and to the inner wand310so that rotation of the handle portion360rotates the handle retainer370, the bottom cap380, and the inner wand310to move the tilt rod110, which moves the covering30between the open and closed configurations for adjusting the amount of view through. In one example of an embodiment, as will be described in greater detail below, the handle portion360(e.g., the bore363) is arranged and configured so that movement of the handle portion360does not affect movement of the elements of the handle assembly350other than engagement with the inner wand310via the handle retainer370and the bottom cap380so that the handle portion360can rotate without affecting (e.g., twisting) the operating cord212. That is, the handle portion360is arranged and configured so that movement of the handle portion360is not transferred to the outer wand330, the cord tether400, nor the cord tensioner420such that rotation of the handle portion360is not transferred to the operating cord212.

In one example of an embodiment, the bottom cap380is arranged and configured to close the bottom end362of the handle portion360. In addition, and/or alternatively, the bottom cap380may be keyed to the bottom end362of the handle portion360so that rotation of the handle portion360rotates the bottom cap380in unison. In addition, the bottom cap380may be coupled to the handle retainer370. For example, as shown, the bottom cap380may be coupled to the handle retainer370by fasteners such as, for example, screws, although other mechanisms for coupling the bottom cap380to the handle retainer370is envisioned such as, for example, a snap-fit connection. As shown, the handle retainer370may include a plurality of channels372for receiving fasteners that pass through openings382formed in the bottom cap380.

In addition, and/or alternatively, the bottom cap380may be coupled to the inner wand310. For example, as shown inFIGS. 15 and 16, the bottom cap380may be coupled to the inner wand310via a transverse cross-pin385, although other mechanisms for coupling the bottom cap380to the inner wand310are envisioned. In addition, and/or alternatively, the handle portion360and the handle retainer370may include one or more alignment features to align and guide insertion of the handle retainer370within the bore363of the handle portion360. For example, in one example of an embodiment, as shown inFIGS. 11 and 12, the bottom end362of the handle portion360may include inwardly extending projections364defining one or more alignment grooves366and/or an inwardly extending ridge or ledge368. As shown inFIGS. 13 and 14, the handle retainer370may include one or more outwardly extending ribs or guides374for mating with the alignment grooves366formed on the inner surface of the handle portion360to align and guide insertion of the handle retainer370within the bore363of the handle portion360, although other alignment mechanisms are envisioned. In addition, the handle retainer370may include one or more tangs or snaps376for coupling to the inwardly extending ridge or ledge368for coupling the handle retainer370to the handle portion360. Thus arranged, the handle portion360is coupled to the inner wand310via the bottom cap380and the handle retainer370so that, in use, manipulation (e.g., rotation) of the handle portion360is transferred to the inner wand310.

As previously mentioned, the operating cord212may be coupled to the outer wand330by any now known or hereafter developed mechanism for preventing relative rotation (e.g., twisting) between the operating cord212and the outer wand330while enabling the operating cord212to be manipulated (e.g., pulled) by the user to move the covering30between the extended and retracted positions. Referring toFIGS. 4, 7-10, and 16, in one example of an embodiment, the integrated wand assembly200includes a cord tether400. As best shown inFIGS. 7-9, the cord tether400includes a top end402, a bottom end404, and a bore406extending from the top end402to the bottom end404for enabling the outer wand330and the inner wand310to pass therethrough. In addition, as shown, the cord tether400further includes an outer surface408extending between the top and bottom ends402,404, and a pathway410formed in the outer surface408for receiving and guiding the operating cord212. Thus arranged, the operating cord212is shifted or moved to one side of the outer wand330. That is, the operating cord212(e.g., the bottom of the loop) is guided by the cord tether400from being positioned along opposing sides of the outer wand330to being positioned in front of the outer wand330(e.g., cord tether400includes, for example, a semi-grooved or U-shaped channel or pathway410formed in the outer surface408thereof to shift or move the operating cord212to one side of the outer wand330). That is, the operating cords212are positioned with one cord or with one side of the loop of the operating cord212positioned on either side of the outer wand330. Thus arranged, the opposing loops of the operating cord212are balanced along the length of the outer wand330so that the wand assembly200stays in place when the operating cords212are placed in tension (e.g., symmetry of the operating cords212about the outer wand330assists the manufacturer during fabrication in preventing the longitudinal axis of the outer wand330from kicking out. In use, the symmetry of the operating cords212about the outer wand330also assists in enabling the wand assembly200to return to a vertically orientated position while maintaining the tension in the operating cords212set during fabrication). The pathway410formed in the cord tether400transitions, passes, moves, etc. the operating cord212to one side of the outer wand330to enable the operating cord212to circumvent or avoid the outer wand330.

In addition, for reasons that will become apparent later on, the cord tether400may include one or more inwardly extending projections or leaf-spring type members412for mating with a cord tensioner420.

The cord tether400is coupled to the outer wand330. That is, the cord tether400is coupled to the outer wand330to prevent relative rotation between the cord tether400and the outer wand330. The cord tether400may be coupled to the outer wand330by any suitable mechanism now known or hereafter developed. For example, in one embodiment, the cord tether400may be keyed to the outer wand330. Referring toFIGS. 4 and 8, the cord tether400may include one or more inwardly extending ribs, keys, projections, etc.414for mating with one or more slots or grooves334(FIG. 15) formed in the outer wand330to prevent relative rotation of the cord tether400and the outer wand330. That is, as shown inFIG. 15, the outer wand330may include diametrically opposed slots or grooves334extending from a lower end332thereof. The cord tether400may include diametrically opposed ribs414arranged and configured to mate with the diametrically opposed slots or grooves334formed in the outer wand330. Thus arranged, by keying the cord tether400to the outer wand330, the cord tether400is coupled to the outer wand330, and thus the operating cord212is prevented from twisting, spinning, etc. relative to the outer wand330when the handle portion360, and hence the inner wand310, is rotated relative to the outer wand330.

As shown, the cord tether400may be manufactured from first and second components that are coupled together via any suitable mechanism now known or hereafter developed including, for example, interlocking projections and recesses, snap-fit connection, an adhesive, etc. Alternatively, the cord tether400may be manufactured from more or fewer components.

Referring toFIGS. 4, 7, 8, 10 and 16, in accordance with another separate and distinct aspect of the present disclosure that may be used separately from, or in combination with, the other aspects of the integrated wand assembly200disclosed herein, the handle assembly350may include a cord tensioner420. That is, as will be described herein, the handle assembly350may include a cord tensioner420that may be used in combination with the cord tether400to tension the operating cord212into a taut condition. It is envisioned that such a device and/or method may be used in connection with other now known or hereafter developed architectural-structure coverings. For example, it is envisioned that the cord tensioner may be used to tension the operating cords of an architectural-structure covering that does not incorporate a tilting function and/or that does not extend horizontally.

Referring toFIG. 10, in one example of an embodiment, the cord tensioner420includes a top end422, a bottom end424, a bore426extending from the top end422to the bottom end424so that the inner wand310may pass therethrough, and an outer surface428arranged and configured to selectively (e.g., ratchetedly) couple to the cord tether400. That is, as shown, the outer surface428of the cord tensioner420includes a plurality of ridges, rings, projections, rachets, etc.430(used interchangeably herein without the intent to limit) for coupling, interacting with, etc., for example, the inwardly extending projections412formed on the cord tether400. In use, the ridges430formed on the outer surface428of the cord tensioner420and the corresponding inwardly extending projections412formed on the cord tether400are arranged and configured to prevent, or at least minimize, back-driving of the cord tensioner420relative to the cord tether400so that, once set, the position of the cord tensioner420relative to the cord tether400is maintained.

As shown inFIGS. 7 and 9, in one example of an embodiment, the inwardly extending projections412may include, for example, an opening, annular boss, or the like413. In use, the bosses413are arranged and configured to receive a tool (not shown), which can be used to deflect the inwardly extending projections412so that the inwardly extending projections412disengage from the ridges430formed on the cord tensioner420, and thereby enable the tension in the operating cords212to be relaxed if necessary.

The cord tensioner420however may take on other forms. For example, in one example of an alternate embodiment, the ridges430may be helical (e.g., screw threads). Thus arranged, tension can be applied to the operating cords212by rotating the cord tensioner420with respect to the cord tether400. Once tension has been set, an assembly for preventing relative rotation of the cord tensioner420relative to the cord tether400may be provided to prevent further, inadvertent rotation. In use, the assembly for preventing rotation could be any now known or hereafter developed assembly including, for example, a clip, a pin, or some other assembly for securing the position of the cord tensioner420relative to the cord tether400. By providing a helical cord tensioner420increased, fine tuning of the operating cords212could be achieved. If needed, the tension in the operating cords212could be relaxed by removing the assembly for preventing relative rotation, and then rotating the cord tensioner420in an opposite direction.

Referring toFIG. 16, the cord tensioner420is coupled to or operatively associated with the inner wand310so that once properly positioned, the cord tensioner420is prevented from moving axially upwards relative to the inner wand310. The cord tensioner420may be prevented from moving axially upwards relative to the inner wand310by any suitable mechanism now known or hereafter developed. For example, in one example of an embodiment, the cord tensioner420may be prevented from moving axially upwards relative to the inner wand310via a transverse cross-pin435extending through the inner wand310. In use, contact of the top end422of the cord tensioner420against the transverse cross-pin435prevents upward axial movement of the cord tensioner420. That is, referring toFIG. 16, the inner wand310includes an upper transverse cross-pin435extending therethrough for preventing upward, axial movement of the cord tensioner420relative to the inner wand310(e.g., the transverse cross-pin435passes through the inner wand310to contact the top end422of the cord tensioner420). Thus arranged, with the cord tether400keyed to the outer wand330, the operating cord212passing through the pathway410formed in the outer surface408of the cord tether400, and the cord tensioner420selectively coupled to the cord tether400with the top end422of the cord tensioner420in contact with the transverse cross-pin435, movement such as, for example, downward movement of the cord tether400relative to the cord tensioner420causes the operating cord212to be tensioned to prevent, or at least minimize, slacking in the operating cord212.

That is, the cord tether400includes one or more inwardly extending projections, leaf-springs, etc.412for selectively coupling to the ridges430formed on the outer surface428of the cord tensioner420to enable the cord tether400to selectively move relative to the cord tensioner420to tension the operating cords212coupled to the cord tether400. That is, the inwardly extending projections, leaf-springs, etc.412“ratchet” against the ridges430formed on the outer surface428of the cord tensioner420. Thereafter, the cord tether400is held in place axially via the ridges430.

Referring toFIGS. 3-6 and 16, the handle assembly350may be manufactured from multiple components or portions. For example, as illustrated, the handle assembly350may include the handle portion360and a top cap440. As previously explained, the handle portion360is coupled (e.g., non-rotatably coupled) to the inner wand310via, for example, the handle retainer370and the bottom cap380so that rotation of the handle portion360is transferred to the inner wand310and eventually to the tilt rod110for rotating the covering30or components thereof between the open and closed configurations. The top cap440is arranged and configured to be rotatable relative to the handle portion360so that rotation of the handle portion360is not transferred to the top cap440. Thus arranged, the top cap440is arranged and configured to remain stationary relative to the outer wand330while the handle portion360, and hence the inner wand310, are being rotated. As such, the operating cord212, which in one example of an embodiment, passes through cutouts450formed in the top cap440, remain stationary during rotation of the handle portion360thereby preventing, or at least minimizing, twisting of the operating cord212during rotation of the handle portion360.

Referring toFIGS. 5 and 6, in one example of an embodiment, the top cap440includes a top end442, a bottom end444arranged and configured for contacting the top end361(FIG. 11) of the handle portion360, and a bore446extending between the top and bottom ends442,444for enabling the outer and inner wands330,310to pass therethrough. In one example of an embodiment, the handle portion360may be arranged and configured to slide over, from the bottom end, the inner wand310, the cord tether400, and the cord tensioner420. Meanwhile, the top cap440may be arranged and configured to slide down from the top end of the outer wand330and the inner wand310to meet the handle portion360and to cover any opening between the handle portion360and the outer wand330(e.g., the top cap440is arranged and configured to contact the top end361of the handle portion360to cover any opening between the handle portion360and the outer wand330).

As shown and as previously mentioned, the top end442of the top cap440may include a pair of diametrically opposed cutouts450for enabling the operating cord212to pass therethrough. Thus arranged, the cutouts450formed in the top cap440assist with guiding and positioning the operating cord212within the handle portion360.

In one example of an embodiment, the top cap440is arranged and configured to contact the outer wand330so as to maintain its position relative thereto. For example, referring toFIG. 6, in one example of an embodiment, the top cap440may include one or more inwardly extending projections, leaf springs, etc.452for creating a friction fit between the top cap440and the outer wand330, although other suitable mechanism are envisioned such as, for example, O-rings, etc.

Referring toFIGS. 17-21, an alternate example of an embodiment of a handle assembly550is shown. As will be illustrated and described herein, the handle assembly550is substantially similar to the handle assembly350previously illustrated and described in connection withFIGS. 3-16except as illustrated and described herein. Thus, for the sake of brevity, only certain features of the handle assembly550will hereinafter be described. As will be described herein, the handle assembly550includes a handle portion560, a handle retainer570, a bottom cap580, a cord tether600, and a top cap640. In use, in connection with the current embodiment, the cord tether600is arranged and configured to couple to the handle retainer570(e.g., without any intervening cord tensioner).

As illustrated, the handle assembly550includes a handle or gripping portion560. In use, the handle portion560is operatively coupled to an inner wand such as, for example, inner wand310so that rotation of the handle portion560rotates the inner wand310, and hence the tilt rod110and the covering30, or components thereof, between the open and closed configurations. As previously described, the handle portion560is decoupled (e.g., not engaged or coupled) from an outer wand, such as, for example, the outer wand330so that rotation of the handle portion560does not rotate, affect, manipulate, etc. the outer wand330. Thus arranged, rotation of the handle portion560and hence the inner wand310is not transferred to the outer wand330, and hence to the operating cord212, thus preventing, or at least minimizing, twisting of the operating cord212about the outer wand330. Referring toFIGS. 17 and 18, the handle portion560includes a top end561, a bottom end562, and a bore563extending between the top and bottom ends561,562.

The handle portion560may be coupled to the inner wand310by any now known or hereafter developed mechanism for achieving the function, result, and/or operation described herein. As illustrated, in one example of an embodiment, the handle assembly550may include a handle retainer570and a bottom cap580. As will be described in greater detail below, the handle retainer570and the bottom cap580are coupled to the handle portion560and to the inner wand310so that rotation of the handle portion560rotates the handle retainer570, the bottom cap580, and the inner wand310to move the tilt rod110, which moves the covering30between the open and closed configurations for adjusting the amount of view through. In one example of an embodiment, as will be described in greater detail below, the handle portion560(e.g., the bore563) is arranged and configured so that movement of the handle portion560does not affect movement of the elements of the handle assembly550other than engagement with the inner wand310via the handle retainer570and the bottom cap580so that the handle portion560can rotate without affecting (e.g., twisting) the operating cord212. That is, the handle portion560is arranged and configured so that movement of the handle portion560is not transferred to the outer wand330or the cord tether600such that rotation of the handle portion560is not transferred to the operating cord212.

In one example of an embodiment, the bottom cap580is arranged and configured to close the bottom end562of the handle portion560. In addition, and/or alternatively, the bottom cap580may be keyed to the bottom end562of the handle portion560so that rotation of the handle portion560rotates the bottom cap580in unison. In addition, the bottom cap580may be coupled to the handle retainer570. For example, the bottom cap580may be coupled to the handle retainer570by fasteners such as, for example, screws, although other mechanisms for coupling the bottom cap580to the handle retainer570is envisioned such as, for example, a snap-fit connection. As previously mentioned, the handle retainer570may include a plurality of channels for receiving fasteners that pass-through openings582(FIG. 19) formed in the bottom cap580. In addition, the handle retainer570may be non-rotatably coupled to the inner wand310. For example, the bore formed in the handle retainer570may be keyed to a non-circular portion of the inner wand and/or a transverse cross-pin may be utilized to couple the handle retainer570to the inner wand310. Thus arranged, the handle portion560is coupled to the inner wand310via the bottom cap580and the handle retainer570so that, in use, manipulation (e.g., rotation) of the handle portion560is transferred to the inner wand310.

In addition, and/or alternatively, the bottom cap580may be coupled to the inner wand310. For example, the bottom cap580may be coupled to the inner wand310via a transverse cross-pin, although other mechanisms for coupling the bottom cap580to the inner wand310may be utilized.

In addition, and/or alternatively, the handle portion560and the handle retainer570may include one or more alignment features to align and guide insertion of the handle retainer570within the bore563of the handle portion560. For example, in one example of an embodiment, the handle portion560, the handle retainer570, and/or the bottom cap580may include corresponding projections, grooves, ridges, ledges, or the like to align and guide insertion of the handle retainer570and/or the bottom cap580within the bore563of the handle portion560. For example, in use, the handle portion560and the handle retainer570may include a keyway to align a portion of the handle portion560(e.g., to align a flat portion of the handle portion560).

As illustrated and as previously mentioned, the wand assembly550includes a cord tether600. In the illustrated example of an embodiment, the cord tether600includes an elongated stem601. In use, the handle retainer570may be arranged and configured to couple to the cord tether600. For example, in the illustrated example of an embodiment, the elongated stem601of the cord tether600may include one or more projections, ridges, ledges, or the like603. The handle retainer570may include one or more flexible arms572arranged and configured to flex to receive and engage the one or more projections, ridges, ledges, or the like603in a snap-fit arrangement, although other coupling mechanisms for coupling the handle retainer570to, for example, the cord tether600are envisioned.

In use, as previously mentioned, the cord tether600includes a top end602, a bottom end604, and a bore606extending from the top end602to the bottom end604for enabling the outer wand330and the inner wand310to pass therethrough (FIG. 18). In addition, as shown, the cord tether600further includes an outer surface608extending between the top and bottom ends602,604, and a pathway610formed in the outer surface608for receiving and guiding the operating cord212. Thus arranged, the operating cord212is shifted or moved to one side of the outer wand330, as best shown inFIG. 19. That is, the operating cord212(e.g., the bottom of the loop) is guided by the cord tether600from being positioned along opposing sides of the outer wand330to being positioned in front of the outer wand330(e.g., cord tether600includes, for example, a semi-grooved or U-shaped channel or pathway610formed in the outer surface608thereof to shift or move the operating cord212to one side of the outer wand330). That is, the loops of the operating cord212are positioned with one cord or with one side of the loop of the operating cord212positioned on either side of the outer wand330. Thus arranged, the opposing loops of the operating cord212are balanced along the length of the outer wand330so that the wand assembly200stays in place when the operating cord212is placed in tension (e.g., symmetry of the operating cord212about the outer wand330assists the manufacturer during fabrication in preventing the longitudinal axis of the outer wand330from kicking out. In use, the symmetry of the operating cord212about the outer wand330also assists in enabling the wand assembly200to return to a vertically orientated position while maintaining the tension in the operating cord212set during fabrication). The pathway610formed in the cord tether600transitions, passes, moves, etc. the operating cord212to one side of the outer wand330to enable the operating cord212to circumvent or avoid the outer wand330.

In use, the cord tether600is coupled to the outer wand330. That is, the cord tether600is coupled to the outer wand330to prevent relative rotation between the cord tether600and the outer wand330. The cord tether600may be coupled to the outer wand330by any suitable mechanism now known or hereafter developed. For example, in one embodiment, the cord tether600may be keyed to the outer wand330. Thus arranged, the cord tether600is coupled to the outer wand330, and thus the operating cord212is prevented from twisting, spinning, etc. relative to the outer wand330when the handle portion560, and hence the inner wand310, is rotated relative to the outer wand330.

As illustrated, in the example embodiment, transverse cross-pins635may be positioned through the inner wand310. The transverse cross-pins635being arranged and configured to interact with the cord tether600to constrict axially, longitudinal movement of the cord tether600(e.g., the cord tether600is prevented from moving axially relative to the inner wand310. Referring toFIG. 18, the inner wand310includes upper and lower transverse cross-pins635extending therethrough for preventing upward and downward, axial movement of the cord tether600relative to the inner wand310(e.g., cross-pins635contact top and bottom ends of the cord tether600). Thus arranged, by properly positioning the location of the cord tether600, the operating cord212may be properly tensioned in a taut condition without incorporation of a cord tensioner as previously described.

As illustrated, in one example of an embodiment, the cord tether600may also include a retaining arm612. In use, the retaining arm612is arranged and configured to interact with the pathway610(e.g., to extend over and beyond the pathway610) to prevent accidental slippage of the operating cord212out of the pathway610during, for example, assembly.

The handle assembly550may be manufactured from multiple components or portions. For example, as illustrated, the handle assembly550may include the handle portion560and a top cap640. As previously explained, the handle portion560is coupled (e.g., non-rotatably coupled) to the inner wand310via, for example, the handle retainer570and the bottom cap580so that rotation of the handle portion560is transferred to the inner wand310and eventually to the tilt rod110for rotating the covering30or components thereof between the open and closed configurations. The top cap640is arranged and configured to be rotatable relative to the handle portion560so that rotation of the handle portion560is not transferred to the top cap640. Thus arranged, the top cap640is arranged and configured to remain stationary relative to the outer wand330while the handle portion560, and hence the inner wand310, are being rotated. As such, the operating cord212, which in one example of an embodiment, passes through cutouts650formed in the top cap640, remain stationary during rotation of the handle portion560thereby preventing, or at least minimizing, twisting of the operating cord212during rotation of the handle portion560.

Similar to the top cap440previously described, top cap640includes a top end642, a bottom end644arranged and configured for contacting the top end561of the handle portion560, and a bore646extending between the top and bottom ends642,644for enabling the outer and inner wands330,310to pass therethrough (FIG. 18). In one example of an embodiment, the handle portion560may be arranged and configured to slide over, from the bottom end, the inner wand310and the cord tether600. Meanwhile, the top cap640may be arranged and configured to slide down from the top end of the outer wand330and the inner wand310to meet the handle portion560and to cover any opening between the handle portion560and the outer wand330(e.g., the top cap640is arranged and configured to contact the top end561of the handle portion560to cover any opening between the handle portion560and the outer wand330).

As previously mentioned, the top end642of the top cap640may include a pair of diametrically opposed cutouts650(FIG. 17) for enabling the operating cord212to pass therethrough. Thus arranged, the cutouts650formed in the top cap640assist with guiding and positioning the operating cord212within the handle portion560.

Referring toFIG. 18, the top cap640may include an opening, a slot, or the like645for receiving a corresponding projection611formed on the cord tether600for coupling the cord tether600to the top cap640, although other coupling mechanisms are envisioned.

Alternatively, referring toFIGS. 22-24, an alternate example of an embodiment of a top cap740is shown. In use, the top cap740may be used in the handle assembly550shown and described in connection withFIGS. 17-21. In particular, the top cap740may be used in place of top cap640when the wand assembly is in the form of a traveling wand assembly. As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, a traveling wand assembly is movably positioned along a horizontal length of the head rail assembly to move the covering between the extended and retracted positions (e.g., a traveling wand assembly does not include an operating cord).

In use, the top cap740may be coupled to the hand assembly550. For example, in the illustrated example of an embodiment, the cord tether may be removed from the handle assembly550and the top cap740may be coupled directly to the handle retainer570via a snap-fit connection, although other coupling mechanisms for coupling the top cap740to the handle assembly550may be utilized. For example, in the illustrated example embodiment, the top cap740may include an elongated stem portion742including one or more projections, ridges, ledges, or the like744. The handle retainer570may include one or more flexible arms572arranged and configured to flex to receive and engage the one or more projections, ridges, ledges, or the like744formed on the stem portion742of the top cap740in a snap-fit arrangement.

In use, the top cap740may be arranged and configured to contact the outer wand330to cover or conceal any opening between the handle portion560and the outer wand330(e.g., the top cap740is arranged and configured to contact the top end561of the handle portion560to cover any opening between the handle portion560and the outer wand330).

In contrast to the previously described top caps, the top cap740of the traveling wand assembly may be devoid of any cutouts since the operating cord is no longer present. Thus arranged, the top cap740is arranged and configured to provide a sleek, reduced profile (e.g., a more reduced portfolio top cap may be provided).

In one embodiment, a vertical architectural-structure covering is disclosed. The vertical architectural-structure covering comprises a head rail assembly, a control system, a covering, an operating cord, and an integrated wand assembly. The control system is at least partially positionable within the head rail assembly, the control system includes a tilt rod and a plurality of carriers. The covering is operatively coupled to the plurality of carriers. The covering is movable between an extended position and a retracted position, and between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The operating cord is coupled to the plurality of carriers arranged and configured to move the covering between the extended and retracted positions. The integrated wand assembly is arranged and configured to actuate the control system to move the plurality of carriers relative to the head rail assembly so that the covering is movable between the extended and retracted positions, and arranged and configured to rotate the tilt rod so that the covering is movable between the open and closed configurations. The integrated wand assembly includes an outer wand, an inner wand, and a handle assembly. The operating cord extends along the outer wand. The inner wand is operatively coupled with the tilt rod, the inner wand is rotatable relative to the outer wand so that rotation of the inner wand is not transferred to the outer wand. The handle assembly includes a handle portion, the handle portion is non-rotatably coupled to the inner wand so that rotation of the handle portion rotates the inner wand to move the covering between the open and closed configurations.

In an alternate embodiment, an integrated wand assembly arranged and configured to be used with a vertical architectural-structure covering is disclosed. The vertical architectural-structure covering includes a covering, an operating cord, and a control system having a tilt rod and a plurality of carriers. The covering is operatively coupled to the plurality of carriers. The covering is movable between an extended position and a retracted position, and between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The operating cord is operatively coupled to the plurality of carriers to move the covering between the extended and retracted positions. The integrated wand assembly comprises an outer wand, an inner wand, and a handle assembly. At least a portion of the operating cord extends along the outer wand. The inner wand is operatively coupled with the tilt rod, the inner wand is rotatable relative to the outer wand so that rotation of the inner wand is not transferred to the outer wand. The handle assembly includes a handle portion, the handle portion is non-rotatably coupled to the inner wand so that rotation of the handle portion rotates the inner wand to move the covering between the open and closed configurations.

In one or more embodiments, the outer wand is non-rotatably coupled with the operating cord.

In one or more embodiments, the handle assembly further comprises a handle retainer and a bottom cap arranged and configured to non-rotatably couple the handle portion to the inner wand.

In one or more embodiments, the handle portion includes a top end, a bottom end, and a bore extending between the top and bottom ends, the bottom cap being arranged and configured to close the bottom end of the handle portion.

In one or more embodiments, the bottom cap is keyed to the bore of the handle portion so that rotation of the handle portion rotates the bottom cap.

In one or more embodiments, the bottom cap is coupled to the handle retainer.

In one or more embodiments, the bottom cap is coupled to the inner wand.

In one or more embodiments, the bottom cap is coupled to the inner wand via a transverse cross-pin passing through the bottom cap and the inner wand.

In one or more embodiments, the bore of the handle portion includes one or more alignment grooves and the handle retainer includes one or more outwardly extending ribs arranged and configured to mate with the one or more alignment grooves, respectively.

In one or more embodiments, the handle portion includes an inwardly extending ledge, the handle retainer includes one or more tangs arranged and configured to couple to the inwardly extending ledge for coupling the handle retainer to the handle portion.

In one or more embodiments, the integrated wand assembly further comprises a cord tether non-rotatably coupled to the outer wand, the cord tether including: a top end; a bottom end; an outer surface extending between the top and bottom ends; and a pathway formed in the outer surface arranged and configured to receive and guide the operating cord.

In one or more embodiments, the pathway guides the operating cord from opposing sides of the outer wand to one side of the outer wand.

In one or more embodiments, the pathway includes a U-shaped pathway arranged and configured to guide the operating cord from opposing sides of the outer wand to one side of the outer wand.

In one or more embodiments, the cord tether is keyed to the outer wand.

In one or more embodiments, the handle assembly further comprises a cord tensioner selectively coupled to the cord tether, the cord tensioner being arranged and configured to tension the operating cord.

In one or more embodiments, the cord tether includes one or more inwardly extending projections; and the cord tensioner includes a plurality of ridges formed on an outer surface thereof, the plurality of ridges being arranged and configured to couple the one or more inwardly extending projections to selectively, axially position the cord tensioner relative to the cord tether.

In one or more embodiments, the cord tether includes a bore extending from the top end thereof to the bottom end thereof, the bore being arranged and configured to allow the inner and outer wands to pass therethrough; and the cord tensioner includes a top end, a bottom end, a bore extending from the top end to the bottom end so that the inner wand passes therethrough.

In one or more embodiments, the cord tensioner is mounted so that axial movement of the cord tensioner relative to the inner wand is prevented.

In one or more embodiments, the inner wand includes a transverse bore arranged and configured to receive a transverse cross-pin passing therethrough, the top end of the cord tensioner contacting the transverse cross-pin so that upward, axial movement of the cord tensioner relative to the inner wand is prevented.

In one or more embodiments, movement of the cord tether relative to the cord tensioner tensions the operating cord.

In one or more embodiments, the handle assembly further comprises a top cap, the top cap including diametrically opposed cutouts arranged and configured to enable the operating cord to pass therethrough, the top cap being rotatable relative to the handle portion.

In one or more embodiments, the integrated wand assembly is arranged and configured for single-handed operation.

In one or more embodiments, the handle portion is arranged and configured so that rotation of the handle portion rotates the tilt rod to move the covering between the open and closed configurations while preventing twisting of the operating cord about the outer wand.

In another embodiment, an integrated wand assembly arranged and configured to be used with a vertical architectural-structure covering is disclosed. The vertical architectural-structure covering includes a covering, an operating cord, and a control system having a tilt rod and a plurality of carriers. The covering is operatively coupled to the plurality of carriers, the covering is movable between an extended position and a retracted position, and between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The operating cord is operatively coupled to the plurality of carriers to move the covering between the extended and retracted positions. The integrated wand assembly comprises a first member, a second member, and a handle assembly. At least a portion of the operating cord extends along the first member. The second member is operatively coupled with the tilt rod. The handle assembly includes a handle portion, a first coupling mechanism arranged and configured to couple to the first member, and a second coupling mechanism arranged and configured to couple to the second member. The first coupling mechanism is separate and distinct from the second coupling mechanism so that manipulation of the handle portion rotates the second member to move the covering between the open and closed configurations but does not affect the first member so that rotation of the handle portion is not transferred to the first member to thereby prevent twisting of the operating cord about the first member.

In one embodiment, the first member is an outer wand and the second member is an inner wand received within the outer wand.

In one embodiment, the handle portion is non-rotatably coupled to the second member so that rotation of the handle portion rotates the second member to move the covering between the open and closed configurations.

In one embodiment, the second coupling mechanism includes a handle retainer and a bottom cap arranged and configured to non-rotatably couple the handle portion to the second member.

In one embodiment, the handle portion includes a top end, a bottom end, and a bore extending between the top and bottom ends, the bottom cap being arranged and configured to close the bottom end of the handle portion.

In one embodiment, wherein the bottom cap is keyed to the bore of the handle portion so that rotation of the handle portion rotates the bottom cap.

In one embodiment, the bottom cap is coupled to the handle retainer.

In one embodiment, wherein the bottom cap is coupled to the second member.

In one embodiment, the bottom cap is coupled to the second member via a transverse cross-pin passing through the bottom cap and the second member.

In one embodiment, the bore of the handle portion includes one or more alignment grooves and the handle retainer includes one or more outwardly extending ribs arranged and configured to mate with the one or more alignment grooves, respectively.

In one embodiment, the handle portion includes an inwardly extending ledge, the handle retainer includes one or more tangs arranged and configured to couple to the inwardly extending ledge for coupling the handle retainer to the handle portion.

In one embodiment, the integrated wand assembly further comprises a cord tether non-rotatably coupled to the first member, the cord tether including: a top end; a bottom end; an outer surface extending between the top and bottom ends; and a pathway formed in the outer surface arranged and configured to receive and guide the operating cord.

In one embodiment, the pathway guides the operating cord from opposing sides of the first member to one side of the first member.

In one embodiment, the pathway includes a U-shaped pathway arranged and configured to guide the operating cord from opposing sides of the first member to one side of the first member.

In one embodiment, the cord tether is keyed to the first member.

In one embodiment, the handle assembly further comprises a cord tensioner selectively coupled to the cord tether, the cord tensioner arranged and configured to tension the operating cord.

In one embodiment, the cord tether includes one or more inwardly extending projections; and the cord tensioner includes a plurality of ridges formed on an outer surface thereof, the plurality of ridges arranged and configured to couple the one or more inwardly extending projections to selectively, axially position the cord tensioner relative to the cord tether.

In one embodiment, the cord tether includes a bore extending from the top end to the bottom end thereof, the bore arranged and configured to allow the first and second members to pass therethrough; and the cord tensioner includes a top end, a bottom end, a bore extending from the top end to the bottom end thereof so that the second member passes therethrough.

In one embodiment, the cord tensioner is mounted so that axial movement of the cord tensioner relative to the second member is prevented.

In one embodiment, the second member includes a transverse bore arranged and configured to receive a transverse cross-pin passing therethrough, the top end of the cord tensioner contacting the transverse cross-pin so that upward, axial movement of the cord tensioner relative to the first member is prevented.

In one embodiment, movement of the cord tether relative to the cord tensioner tensions the operating cord.

In one embodiment, the handle assembly further comprises a top cap, the top cap including diametrically opposed cutouts arranged and configured to enable the operating cord to pass therethrough, the top cap being rotatable relative to the handle portion.

In one embodiment, the integrated wand assembly is arranged and configured for single-handed operation.

In one embodiment, the handle portion is arranged and configured so that rotation of the handle portion rotates the tilt rod to move the covering between the open and closed configurations while preventing twisting of the operating cord about the first member.

The foregoing description has broad application. Accordingly, 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 example 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.

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, and counterclockwise) are only used for identification purposes to aid the reader's understanding of the present disclosure, and do not create limitations, 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. The drawings are for purposes of illustration only and the dimensions, positions, order and relative sizes reflected in the drawings attached hereto may vary.