Patent Publication Number: US-11653784-B2

Title: Drapery bladed drive coupler

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 67/727,918 which was filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office on Sep. 6, 2018, the entire contents of which is herein incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     This disclosure relates to window coverings. More specifically and without limitation, this disclosure relates to a rotating drapery rod system. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     Architectural coverings, such as curtains, shades, draperies and the like are old and well known in the art and are frequently used to provide privacy and to limit the amount of light that is permitted to pass through a window and into a room or building. There are countless types, forms and designs of architectural coverings known in the art. The term architectural covering is used to describe any and all of these types, forms and designs including blinds, shades, draperies, and the like. 
     One form of architectural covering of particular interest in this application is commonly referred to as draperies. Common components of draperies include a support rod connected to brackets positioned above or adjacent to a window or door. In one arrangement of a drapery, the support rod rotates and drives the shade material across the length of the support rod. This arrangement is more fully described in Applicant&#39;s related U.S. Pat. No. 9,095,908 entitled Rotatable Drapery rod For Moving A Window Covering, issued on Aug. 4, 2015 which is fully incorporated herein, including related applications; and Applicant&#39;s related patent application Ser. No. 14/786,877 filed on Oct. 23, 2015 entitled Motorized Drapery Apparatus, System and Method of Use which is also fully incorporated by reference herein, including any related applications. 
     In these related patent applications, a motorized drapery apparatus is presented having a plurality if rings positioned around or looped over the support rod (also referred to as the rotatable drapery rod). Shade material is attached to these rings by way of pins or hooks or any other arrangement. 
     While this arrangement is elegant and effective, problems and challenges remain with the present designs and offerings. 
     Thus it is a primary object of the disclosure to provide a drapery rod system that improves upon the state of the art. 
     Another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that reduces cost over existing arrangements. 
     Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that facilitates the use of thin walled tubes. 
     Another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that allows for the use of formed tubes, instead of machined tubes. 
     Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that facilitates connection to formed tubes. 
     Another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that facilitates use of less expensive components. 
     Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that reduces the complexity of the manufacturing process. 
     Another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that reduces the amount of time required to manufacture. 
     Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that reduces the amount of machine time required to manufacture the product. 
     Another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that eliminates the need for a machined tube. 
     Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that is easy to assemble. 
     Another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that has a relatively foolproof design. 
     Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that reduces the transmission of vibrations. 
     Another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that dampens vibrations. 
     Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that provides some give to the system. 
     Another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that is easy to use. Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that is simple in design. 
     Another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that facilitates quiet operation. 
     Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that facilitates smooth operation. 
     Another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that is relatively inexpensive or affordable. 
     Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that has a minimum number of parts. 
     Another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that can be used with any shade material. 
     Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a drapery rod system that facilitates robust operation. 
     These and other objects, features, or advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the specification, claims and drawings. 
     SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     A drapery system is presented having a drapery rod extending the length from a first end to a second end. The drapery rod is connected to a structure by a pair of brackets. The drapery rod has a cylindrical shape with an exterior surface. The exterior surface of the drapery rod has a guide structure, which in one arrangement is a plurality of helical grooves. A plurality of rings are positioned around the drapery rod that are used to connect shade material to the drapery rod. In the arrangement presented these rings include a partial driver ring, a full driver ring and a plurality of idler rings. The drapery rod is formed of a thin walled formed tube having a seam and a hollow interior. A motor is connected to a drive coupler having a main body and a plurality of connection members. The main body is formed of a compressible non-metallic material that is configured to absorb vibrations and reduce noise. The connection members are formed of a metallic material and are formed of generally triangular shaped members with a pair of arms that angle toward one another and terminate in opposing ends with a space between the opposing ends that is configured to engage and hold onto the seam of the drapery rod. When the drive coupler is inserted into the hollow interior of the drapery rod and the motor is activated, the drive coupler rotates inside the hollow interior of the drapery rod until a connection member engages the seam and captures the seam in the space between the opposing arms. Once the seam is captured by a connection member, the drapery rod rotates with the drive coupler when the motor is activated. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG.  1    is a front elevation view of a rotating drapery rod system utilizing a thin walled formed tube as the drapery rod and a bladed coupler to connect to and drive the rotating drapery rod from the hollow interior of the drapery rod; 
         FIG.  2    is a side elevation view of the rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  3    is a perspective front view of the rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIGS.  1  and  2   ; 
         FIG.  4    is a front elevation view of the rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIGS.  1 - 3   , the view showing the shade material removed from the rings; 
         FIG.  5    is a side elevation view of the rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIG.  4   ; 
         FIG.  6    is a perspective front view of the rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIGS.  4  and  5   ; 
         FIG.  7    is a front elevation exploded view of the rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIGS.  4 - 6   ; 
         FIG.  8    is a side perspective front view of the rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIGS.  4 - 7   ; 
         FIG.  9    is a perspective view of a motor control assembly of the rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIGS.  1 - 8   ; 
         FIG.  10    is an exploded perspective view of a motor control assembly of the rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIG.  9   ; 
         FIG.  11    is another exploded perspective view of a motor control assembly of the rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIG.  9   ; 
         FIG.  12 A  is a perspective view of the inward end of main body of a drive coupler of the rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIGS.  1 - 11   ; 
         FIG.  12 B  is a perspective view of the outward end of main body of a drive coupler of the rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIGS.  1 - 11   ; 
         FIG.  12 C  is an elevation view of the inward end of main body of a drive coupler of the rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIGS.  1 - 11   ; 
         FIG.  12 D  is an elevation view of the side of main body of a drive coupler of the rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIGS.  1 - 11   ; 
         FIG.  12 E  is an elevation view of the outward end of main body of a drive coupler of the rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIGS.  1 - 11   ; 
         FIG.  13    is another exploded perspective view of a motor control assembly of the rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIG.  9   ; 
         FIG.  14    is an exploded perspective view of the outward end of main body of a drive coupler of the rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIGS.  1 - 13     
         FIG.  15    is a perspective view of an end of the thin walled formed tube used as the drapery rod in the rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIGS.  1 - 14   , the view showing the interior feature on the interior surface of the hollow interior of the drapery rod which is a weld line; 
         FIG.  16    is an elevation view of an end of the thin walled formed tube used as the drapery rod in the rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIGS.  1 - 15   , the view showing the drive coupler positioned in the hollow interior of the drapery rod; the view showing the exterior surface of the drive coupler in engagement with the interior surface of the drapery rod; the view showing the interior feature, which is a weld line, in the interior surface of the drapery rod captured within the slot between the opposing ends of opposing end walls of a connection member thereby locking the drive coupler in place on the drapery rod; 
         FIG.  17    is a perspective view of the end of the drapery rod with the drive coupler positioned within the hollow interior of drapery rod as is shown in  FIG.  16   ; 
         FIG.  18    is a transparent view of the view shown in  FIG.  17   ; 
         FIG.  19    is a front elevation exploded view of an alternative arrangement of a rotating drapery rod system having a drive coupler with connection members that are captured within the material of the main body of the drive coupler so as to prevent the connection members from sliding out of the drive coupler; 
         FIG.  20    is an exploded perspective view of the alternative arrangement of a rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIG.  19   ; 
         FIG.  21    is a perspective view of a motor control assembly of the alternative arrangement of a rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIGS.  19 - 20   ; 
         FIG.  22    is an exploded perspective view of a motor control assembly of the alternative arrangement of a rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIG.  21   ; 
         FIG.  23 A  is a perspective view of the inward end of main body of a drive coupler of the alternative arrangement of a rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIGS.  19 - 22   ; 
         FIG.  23 B  is a perspective view of the outward end of main body of a drive coupler of the alternative arrangement of a rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIGS.  19 - 22   ; 
         FIG.  23 C  is an elevation view of the inward end of main body of a drive coupler of the alternative arrangement of a rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIGS.  19 - 22   ; 
         FIG.  23 D  is an elevation view of the side of main body of a drive coupler of the alternative arrangement of a rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIGS.  19 - 22   ; 
         FIG.  23 E  is an elevation view of the outward end of main body of a drive coupler of the alternative arrangement of a rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIGS.  19 - 22   ; 
         FIG.  24    is an exploded perspective view of the outward end of main body of a drive coupler of the alternative arrangement of a rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIGS.  19 - 23     
         FIG.  25    is an elevation view of an end of the thin walled formed tube used as the drapery rod in the alternative arrangement of a rotating drapery rod system shown in  FIGS.  19 - 24   , the view showing the drive coupler positioned in the hollow interior of the drapery rod; the view showing the exterior surface of the drive coupler in engagement with the interior surface of the drapery rod; the view showing the interior feature, which is a weld line, in the interior surface of the drapery rod captured within the slot between the opposing ends of opposing end walls of a connection member thereby locking the drive coupler in place on the drapery rod; 
         FIG.  26    is a perspective view of the end of the alternative arrangement of a drapery rod with the drive coupler positioned within the hollow interior of drapery rod as is shown in  FIG.  25   ; 
         FIG.  27    is a transparent view of the view shown in  FIG.  26   ; 
         FIG.  28    is a demonstrative view of one arrangement of a connection member formed of a folded piece of rectangular metallic material which results in a squared point at the inward most edge of the ends of end walls that engage the interior surface of the drapery rod; and 
         FIG.  29    is a demonstrative view of an arrangement of a connection member formed of a folded piece of rectangular metallic material having a flattened area at the inward most edge of the ends of end walls that engage the interior surface of the drapery rod. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that mechanical, procedural, and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the disclosure is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. 
     As used herein, the terminology such as vertical, horizontal, top, bottom, front, back, end, sides, left, right, and the like are referenced according to the views, pieces, parts, components and figures presented. It should be understood, however, that the terms are used only for purposes of description, and are not intended to be used as limitations. Accordingly, orientation of an object or a combination of objects may change without departing from the scope of the disclosure. 
     System: 
     With reference to the figures, a drapery rod system  10  (system  10 ) is presented. System  10  is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to facilitate the opening and closing of shade material  12  in a quick, easy, safe, quiet and smooth manner. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the drapery rod system  10  has a top side  14 , a bottom side  16 , a front side  18 , a back side  20 , a left side  22  and a right side  24 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, the drapery rod system  10  includes the following component pieces, among others: drapery rod  26 , brackets  28 , finials  30 , motor control assembly  32 , power source  34 , rings  35  including one or more idler rings  36 , partial driver rings  38 , full driver rings  40 , drive coupler  42 , and shade material  12 , among other components. 
     Drapery Rod: 
     Drapery rod system  10  includes a drapery rod  26 . Drapery rod  26  is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to support as well as open and close shade material  12 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, drapery rod  26 , is formed of an elongated member that extends a length between ends  44 . Drapery rod  26  may be formed of a single, unitary member or may be formed of a plurality of connected members that form a drapery rod  26 . 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from an end  44  drapery rod  12  has a generally cylindrical shape with an exterior surface  46  and a hollow interior  48 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, exterior surface  46  is generally cylindrical in shape and has a smooth surface that includes guide structure  50 . 
     Guide structure  50  is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to facilitate the movement of idler rings  36 , partial driver rings  38  and full driver rings  40  along the length of the drapery rod  26  from end  44  to end  44 . In one arrangement, as is shown, guide structure  50  is formed of a helical guide structure positioned in exterior surface  46 . The helical guide structure can be a left-hand guide structure, a right-hand guide structure, or both, or a plurality or combination of left-hand guide structures and/or right-hand guide structures. Guide structure  50  can either be grooves, indentations, protrusions, threads or any other feature or the like, as is described herein. Guide structure  50  can either ground or machined into the surface of drapery rod  26 , knurled into the surface of drapery rod  26 , cast into the surface of drapery rod  26 , formed into the surface of drapery rod  26 , extruded into the exterior surface of drapery rod  26 , or created by any other means or methods known in the art. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, with particular reference to  FIG.  15   , three leads or grooves are presented as guide structure  50  (e.g.  50 - 1 ,  50 - 2 ,  50 - 3 ) that are equally spaced across the exterior surface  46  of drapery rod  26  (e.g. approximately 120 degrees from one another) and they rotate in a consistent manner across the length of drapery rod  26  from end  44  to end  44 . However any other number of leads or grooves are hereby contemplated for use such as one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or more, which can be formed of all left hand guide structures, right hand guide structures or a combination of both which may be spaced from one another at any spacing. 
     In the arrangement shown, the grooves of guide structure  50  have a consistent angle of rotation throughout the length of the grooves from end  44  to end  44 , and maintaining the position of the grooves within close tolerances throughout the length of the drapery rod  26 . In an alternative arrangement, the grooves of guide structure  50  have varying pitch or angle of rotation along the length of drapery rod  26 . 
     Drapery rod  26  includes a hollow interior  48 . Hollow interior  48  is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to reduce the amount of material needed to form a drapery rod  26 , as well as receive components of a system such as finials  30 , a motor control assembly  32 , or other elements. In the arrangement shown, as one example, hollow interior  48  includes an interior surface  52  which is generally smooth and cylindrical in shape and is positioned in approximate parallel spaced alignment to exterior surface  46 . With that said, due to the wall thickness of drapery rod  26  the diameter of the interior surface  52  is less than the diameter of exterior surface  46 . 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, hollow interior  48  includes at least one interior feature  54  that protrude inward from the interior surface  52  which may be used to facilitate rotation of the drapery rod  26 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, the interior feature  54  shown extends the length of the drapery rod  26  from end  44  to end  44 . 
     Thin Walled Formed Tube: 
     In prior arrangements of a rotating drapery rod system, such as that shown in Applicant&#39;s commonly owned U.S. Pat. No. 9,095,908 issued Aug. 4, 2015, entitled Rotatable Drive Element for Moving A Window Covering which is fully incorporated by reference herein, as well as any related patents, the rotating drapery rod therein is comprised of a thick-walled rod with a guide structure that is machined into the exterior surface of the drapery rod using a complicated, time consuming and difficult secondary machining process which is performed after the rod is made. The thick walls of the drapery rod were required to provide sufficient material to form the guide structure in the rod using the machining process. In addition, the complicated machining process needed to be carefully and precisely controlled to ensure that the resulting grooves were precise and accurate and that there were no aberrations, burrs or other defects in the grooves, which had a tendency to create operational issues. 
     The thick walls of these machined drapery rods substantially increased the amount of the material that the drapery rod is formed of, which increases material cost. In addition, due to the thick walls, this required an expensive manufacturing process, such as extrusion to form the drapery rods themselves. As such, using thick walled drapery rods had substantial cost disadvantages due to the substantial amount of material that the tubes are formed of, complex and expensive manufacturing process for making the tubes themselves, and the complex, time consuming and expensive machining process for putting the grooves in the drapery rods. Another disadvantage of using these thick walled tubes for the drapery rod is that they are custom or specialty products that must be made to order which increases costs and lead times and substantially reduces the number of available suppliers. 
     In the arrangement shown, as an alternative to using a thick walled machined tube, a thin walled formed tube is used. To be clear, the term machining as is used herein is intended to mean a machining process where material is removed by a cutting or a grinding or the like process to place features in the drapery rod. As such, a machined tube is intended to mean a tube that has features formed in the tube through a machining process, which is a cutting or grinding or similar process. In contrast, the term formed used herein is intended to mean a forming process wherein features are placed in the drapery rod though a process that does not substantially remove material but instead deforms the drapery rod to form features therein. This forming process may be a stamping process, a compression process, a rolling process, a knurling process, a hammering process, an extrusion process, or any other process that forms features into the drapery rod  26 , such as guide structure  50 , using pressure and force without relying upon the removal of material to form the features, such as guide structure  50 . 
     Using a thin walled formed tube provides substantial advantages. Using a thin walled formed tube also provides substantial disadvantages and challenges. 
     Advantages 
     Many advantages exist with respect to the use of a thin walled formed tube for drapery rod  26 . One of the advantages of using a thin walled formed tube is that due to the thin walls the thin walled drapery rod  26  requires substantially less material as compared to a thick walled machined drapery rod  26 . Using less material reduces the material cost. Another advantage of using a thin walled formed tube is that the tube may itself be formed by a faster and less expensive manufacturing process. That is, in one arrangement, the drapery rod  26  is formed by taking a sheet of material, such as steel, aluminum, an alloy, or any other metallic material or non-metallic material, and rolling it into a tubular shape and then joining the opposing ends using a manufacturing process such as welding, adhering, screwing, bolting, snap-fitting, friction fitting or any other process. In one arrangement, in the example shown in the figures, a welding process is used to join the opposing ends of the drapery rod  26 . This welding process forms a seam that extends inward into the hollow interior  48  of drapery rod  26  a distance. It is this welded seam that in one arrangement is the feature  54  on the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  that drive coupler  42  connects to. 
     While manufacturing drapery rod  26  through this process of taking a sheet of material, rolling it and then welding it certainly has its challenges and is itself complex, it can be performed in a fast and less expensive manner when the process is optimized. As such, the manufacturing process for manufacturing a formed drapery rod  26  may be less expensive than custom-extruding a custom thick walled drapery rod  26 . In addition, many formed thin walled tubes formed of various materials are readily available on the market. As such, another advantage is that these existing and common formed tubes may be utilized as the drapery rod  26  herein. Avoiding the need to use a custom-formed drapery rod  26  allows for a greater number of suppliers of drapery rod  26  to be used at a reduced cost. Also, this means that a readily available supply of formed drapery rods  26  may be used. Another advantage of using readily available formed tubes is that the manufacturers of these tubes have a great amount of experience manufacturing these tubes and they are very good at manufacturing them with tight tolerances and with high quality. 
     Another advantage of using a formed thin walled tube for drapery rod  26  is that the forming process does not have the potential to cut through the wall of the drapery rod  26 . That is, one of the risks and disadvantages of machining the features in the exterior surface of the thick walled tubes is that the machining can cut through the wall of the tube in places. This may occur due to imprecision in the machining process, a thin spot in the wall of the rod or a combination thereof. When this occurs, the entire tube often needs to be scrapped, which wastes machine time and material and increases the overall cost of the product. Even if the machining process does not cut all the way through the wall of the tube, weak spots can be formed in the tube when the machining process gets close to the hollow interior of the tube. In contrast, when forming the features in the tube, this leads to less potential of cutting through the wall of the tube or forming thin spots in the wall of the tube, as compared to machining. 
     Disadvantages 
     Many disadvantages exist when it comes to using a formed tube and forming the guide structure  50  in the drapery rod  26 . One such disadvantage is that another manufacturer must be relied upon to provide dimensionally accurate tubes, which in practice can vary substantially. That is, the interior diameter may vary substantially, the exterior diameter may vary substantially, the wall thickness may vary substantially, the straightness of the tubes may vary substantially, the smoothness of the tubes may vary substantially, and the welding seam, or feature  54 , may vary substantially, the mechanical properties of the tubes may vary substantially (e.g. how strong they are, how much they bend, etc.), the material composition of the tubes may vary substantially, among others. This variance must be dealt with and accommodated when using these thin-walled formed tubes. 
     Another substantial disadvantage when using thin walled formed tubes for a rotating drapery rod system  10 , as is shown herein, is that the thin walled formed tubes only have a single, small interior feature  54 , on their interior surface  52 . This interior feature  54  is a weld line where the opposing sides of the tube were welded together. Otherwise the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  is generally free of features. 
     This presents a problem in the rotating drapery rod system  10  presented herein as drapery rod  26  is rotated by motor  32 . As the hollow interior  48  of these thin walled formed tubes only include the interior feature  54  which is a weld line, this is the only feature that can be used to grab onto when trying to grasp the drapery rod  26  from inside the hollow interior  48 . However, this interior feature  54 , which is a weld line, tends to be small and sporadic in shape and position, and can vary substantially from tube-to-tube, and manufacturer-to-manufacturer. As such, it is challenging to grip the drapery rod  26  from hollow interior  48  by using this interior feature  54  which is a weld line. This, coupled with the dimensional and other variances between tubes and between manufacturers, makes connecting to thin walled formed drapery rods  26  and rotating them from inside their hollow interior  48  very challenging. This is where drive coupler  42 , as is described herein, is used. 
     Brackets: 
     Drapery rod system  10  includes brackets  28 . Brackets  28  are formed of any suitable size, shape and design and are configured to attach drapery rod  26  to wall or other structure. In the arrangement shown, as one example, brackets  28 , includes a mounting plate  56 , a support arm  58 , and a collar  60 , among other features, components and structures. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, mounting plate  56  is configured to attach the brackets  28  to the wall or other structure. In the arrangement shown, as one example, mounting plate  56  is a generally square or rectangular member that connects to a wall in a generally flat and flush manner thereby connecting the drapery rod system  10  to the wall or structure. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, support arm  58  is configured to extend between mounting plate  56  and collar  60 , while having an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Support arm  58  extends the collar  60  away from the wall or other structure a desired distance. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, collar  60  is configured to facilitate connection to drapery rod  26  while allowing rotation of drapery rod  26  while drapery rod  26  is held within opposing collars  60  of opposing brackets  28 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, collar  60  is formed of a pair of opposing members that connect together around drapery rod  26  in a clamshell like manner. In the arrangement shown, as one example, collar  60  has a generally cylindrical exterior shape that is slightly larger than the exterior diameter of drapery rod  26 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, the interior of collar  60  includes a shaped opening that receives an axle or other component of the drapery rod system  10  that both holds the drapery rod  26  while allowing it to rotate. 
     Brackets  28  may be formed of a single, unitary member or may be formed of a plurality of connected members that form brackets  28 . 
     While two brackets are shown in use, any number of brackets are hereby contemplated for use, such as one bracket  28  also placed at the middle of an elongated drapery rod  26 , a plurality of brackets between opposing ends  44  of drapery rod  26  or any other number of brackets  28 , as is any configuration of brackets  28  hereby contemplated for use. 
     Finials: 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, drapery rod system  10  includes finials  30  having a decorative element  62  and an extension  64 . Finials  30  are formed of any suitable size, shape and design and are configured to improve the aesthetic appearance of drapery rod system  10 . 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, finials  30  include a decorative element  62  which may merely serve a decorative purpose. In the arrangement shown, as one example, this decorative element  62  is shown as a cylindrical shaped member placed at the end of extension  64 , however any other shape, design or configuration is hereby contemplated for use. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, finials  30  include an extension  64 . Extension  64  may serve decorative purposes, much like decorative element  62 . Extension  64  may serve as a place to house components of drapery rod system  10  such as a motor control assembly  32  or other components. In the arrangement shown, as one example, extension  64  is configured to mimic the length of the drapery rod  26  and extends past the brackets  28 . That is, in the arrangement shown, as one example, end  44  of drapery rod  26  connects to one side of collar  60  and extension  64  connects to the opposite side of collar  60  and extends outwardly therefrom a distance with a similar shape and alignment to that of drapery rod  26 . The outward end of extension  64  connects to decorative element  62 . 
     Finials  30  may be used to house and hold any mechanical or electronic component of the drapery rod system  10  in the hollow interior of finial  30 . This includes housing the motor control assembly  32 , power source  34 , or any other component or portion or combination thereof. 
     Motor Control Assembly: 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, drapery rod system  10  includes a motor control assembly  32 . Motor control assembly  32  is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to facilitate motorized operation of drapery rod system  10 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, motor control assembly  32  includes a motor controller  66 , a microprocessor  68 , memory  70 , a receiver or transceiver  72  (transceiver), antenna  73 , a printed circuit board  74  (PCB), a motor  76 , a gearbox  78 , and a connection assembly  80 , among other components. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, a motor controller  66  is any component or combination of components that are configured to control operation of motor  76 . 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, microprocessor  68  is any computing device that is configured to receive inputs, processes these inputs according to information or instructions or software or code stored in memory  70  and output commands. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, memory  70  is any information storage device that is configured to receive information, store information and provide information on request of and/or for microprocessor  68 . Memory  70  may be formed of flash, dram, ram, a hard-drive or any combination thereof or the like. Microprocessor  68  and memory  70  may be formed of a single combined unit, separate but operatively connected components, or a plurality of separate but operatively connected components or the like or any combination thereof. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, receiver or transceiver  72  may be formed of any communication device that facilitates signal transmission through wired or wireless communication. When operating in only a receive mode (one-way communication), transceiver  72  acts as only a receiver. When operating in send and receive mode (two-way communication), transceiver  72  acts both as a receiver as well as a transmitter. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, antenna  73  is formed of any component configured to receive wireless signals as well as transmit wireless signals in over the air communication and may be formed of a loop antenna, a fractal antenna, a slot antenna, a monopole antenna, or any other form of an antenna. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, printed circuit board  74  is configured of any structural component that is configured receive electrical components of the motor controller  66  while providing selected electrical isolation as well selected electrical connection between electronic components. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, motor  76  is any component that receives electric power and converts this power into motion. In the arrangement shown, as one example, motor  76  is a DC motor 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, gearbox  78  is any component that changes rotational speed of an output shaft of motor  76  to a desired speed through an arrangement of gears or other components. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, connection assembly  80  is any arrangement that facilitates connection of motor control assembly  32  to the other components of drapery rod system  10  such as brackets  28  and/or drapery rod  26  so as to facilitate operation of the drapery rod system  10 . 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, motor control assembly  32  extends from its outward end toward its inward end from connection assembly  80  to motor  76  to gearbox  78  to drive coupler  42 . 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, connection assembly  80  includes an axle  82  at its outward most end. Axle  82  is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to be held within the opening  84  in collar  60  of brackets  28  and to prevent rotation there between when connected and in place. In the arrangement shown, as one example, axle  82  is a generally square or rectangular protrusion that extends outward from the outward end of connection assembly  80  a distance. This square or rectangular axle  82  is sized and shaped to be received within a similarly sized and shaped opening  84  in collar  60 , however any other corresponding shape is hereby contemplated for use. The corresponding shape and configuration of the square or rectangular axle  82  and opening  84  prevent rotation of connection assembly  80  when it is connected by axle  82  to opening  84 . 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, connection assembly  80  includes a flange  86  positioned just inward of axle  82  which connects to an extension  88 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, flange  86  is generally cylindrical in shape and is sized and shaped to prevent insertion of motor control assembly  32  within the hollow interior  48  of drapery rod  26 . That is, when motor control assembly  32  is inserted within the hollow interior  48  of drapery rod  26 , the interior surface of flange  86  engages the end  44  of drapery rod  26  thereby preventing further insertion of motor control assembly  32  into the hollow interior  48  of drapery rod  26 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, the exterior diameter of flange  86  is approximately that of the exterior surface  46  of drapery rod  26 . 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, an extension  88  extends inward from flange  86  a distance. In the arrangement shown, as one example, extension  88  is generally cylindrical in shape and is sized and shaped to fit within the hollow interior  48  of drapery rod  26  within close tolerances. As such, extension  88  is slightly smaller in diameter than flange  86 . When assembled, extension  88  is positioned within the hollow interior  48  of drapery rod  26  whereas flange  86  remains just outside of the hollow interior  48  of drapery rod  26 . 
     In one arrangement, a bearing (not shown) is positioned within connection assembly  80  which allows the rotation of the component that includes flange  86  and extension  88 . In this arrangement, extension  88  is positioned within the hollow interior  48  of an end of drapery rod  26  and flange  86  positioned adjacent to and/or connected to an end  44  of drapery rod  26  and rotate with drapery rod  26  around axle  82 . The other portions of motor control assembly  32 , other than extension  88  and flange  86 , remain stationary as drapery rod  26  rotates. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, a connection assembly  80  is connected to each end  44  of drapery rod  26 . One connection assembly  80  is connected to holder  90 , motor  76 , gearbox  78  and drive coupler  42  connected to one end  44  of the drapery rod  26  and facilitates powered rotation of drapery rod. The other connection assembly  80  connected to the other end  44  of drapery rod  26  does not include holder  90 , motor  76 , gearbox  78  and drive coupler  42  and simply facilitates free rotation of drapery rod  26  which is driven by motor  76  connected adjacent the opposite end of drapery rod  26 . 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, a holder  90  is connected to and extends inward from the inward end of extension  88 . Holder  90  is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to connect connection assembly  80  to the exterior end of motor  76 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, holder  90  includes a wall  92  that forms a hollow interior  94 . The inward end of holder  90  includes a plate  96  having a plurality of protrusions  98  therein. Plat  96  is configured to be affixed to the exterior end of motor  76  using one or more fasteners  100 . When holder  90  is affixed to the exterior end of motor  76  the protrusions  98  of plate  96  are received within recesses  102  in the exterior end of motor  76 . The combination of the engagement between the protrusions  98  of holder  90  with the recesses  102  of motor  76  as well as the connection of fasteners  100  through plate  96  and into the exterior end of motor  76  prevent rotation or movement of motor  76  relative to holder  90 . 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, an output shaft  104  extends outward from the outward end of motor  76 . A magnetic member  106  is connected to the output shaft  104  that extends outward from the outward end of motor  76 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, this magnetic member  106  is a magnetic wheel that is separated into a plurality of magnetic segments, each having a different polarity, which may be sensed as the magnetic wheel is rotated to provide speed and position and other operational data. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, when holder  90  is connected to the outward end of motor  76 , output shaft  104  and magnetic member  106  extend into the hollow interior  94  of holder  90 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, a board  108 , such as a printed circuit board, is positioned within the hollow interior  94  of holder  90  and includes one or more sensors  110  thereon. These sensors  110  are placed adjacent to magnetic member  106  and within sensing distance of magnetic member  106  such that when magnetic member  106  rotates the one or more sensors  110  detect the rotation which is transmitted to the motor control assembly  32  (or more specifically the microprocessor  68 ) which counts and tracks the signals and from which can determine the speed, direction and position, as well as any operational limits, such as when an opening motion has reached its end, fully opened, position. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, sensors  110  are what are known as Hall Effect sensors, which sense the passing of magnetic fields as magnetic member  106  is rotated. However, any other form of a sensor is hereby contemplated for use such as a reed switch, an optical sensor, a magnetic sensor, a mechanical sensor or the like or any other sensor that is capable of sensing rotation of output shaft  104 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, one sensor is positioned on each side of the magnetic member  106 . By providing two sensors  110 , one on each side of magnetic member  106 , this provides greater clarity and greater accuracy of data. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, an electrical lead  112  connects to board  108  within the hollow interior  94  of holder  90  and extends outward therefrom. In the arrangement shown, as one example, electrical lead  112  extends outward through an opening in the center of axle  82 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, the outward end of electrical lead  112  includes a plug  114  thereon that is configured to electrically connect to other components of the system  10 . 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, the inward end of output shaft  104  extends outward from the inward end of motor  76  and connects to gearbox  78 . Gearbox  78  itself has an output shaft  116  that connects to drive coupler  42 , as is further described herein. 
     The components of motor control assembly  32  may be co-located at or near the same position or place, or these components may be separated by distance and electrically connected to one another. Furthermore, each of the components of motor control assembly  32  may be separated into a plurality of components which may be located at different locations. As an example, memory  70  may be formed of a plurality of memory components located at different positions of the drapery rod system  10 , some on board and others are external, that are electrically connected to one another and operate in cooperation with one another. 
     In one arrangement, electrical lead  112  extends out of motor control assembly  32  and out of the end of drapery rod  26 , through collar  60  of bracket  28  and into the hollow interior of finial  30  (extension  64  and/or decorative element  62 ). In this arrangement, other electrical components of motor control assembly  32  are housed and held within the hollow interior of finial  30  which are electrically connected to the electrical components of motor control assembly  32  positioned within the end  44  of drapery rod  26 . In another arrangement, electrical lead  112  extends out of drapery rod  26  and connects to a controller  117 . Controller  117  may be formed of any suitable size, shape and design and may include some or all of the electrical components of motor control assembly  32  that are needed to control operation of drapery rod system  10 . In the arrangement shown in  FIG.  1   , as one example, controller  117  is includes a battery tube  118  that houses and holds power source  34 , which in the arrangement shown is a plurality of batteries  120  held within battery tube  118 . In one arrangement, controller  117  also includes one or more buttons, switches or other devices that are used to control operation of drapery rod system  10  that may be used to start or stop operation of the rotating drapery rod  26 . In one arrangement, controller  117  may be pulled or lifted to initiate movement or stop movement or reverse movement. In one arrangement, controller  117  (or other portions of motor control assembly  32 ) include a light sensor, a temperature sensor, and/or any other form of a sensor that is utilized to initiate automated movement of the drapery rod system  10 . 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, battery tube  118  is formed as an elongated cylindrical member and houses a plurality of batteries  120  that form power source  34 . Use of an external battery tube provides the benefit of being able to place the power source  34  at any external position in a hidden manner behind shade material  12 . Alternatively, power source  34  may be positioned within drapery rod  26  or finials  30  and/or within brackets  28 , or within any other component of the drapery rod system  10 . However, any other configuration of power source  34  is hereby contemplated for use. 
     In an alternative arrangement, electrical lead  112  extends out of drapery rod  26 , bracket  28 , or another component of drapery rod system  10  and electrically connects to direct line voltage, solar cell, or any other form of power. In an alternative arrangement, electrical lead  112  extends out of drapery rod  26 , bracket  28 , or another component of drapery rod system  10  and electrically connects to a central controller system, such as a central controller computer, a power panel or another component that provides power as well as control signals to drapery rod system  10  that control operation of drapery rod system  10 . 
     Shade Material: 
     Drapery rod system  10  includes shade material  12 . Shade material  12  is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is generally configured of a piece of material that hangs from drapery rod  26  by connection to rings  35 . Shade material  12  is configured of a piece of material that serves both aesthetic purposes as well as light control or filtering purposes. For one way opening draperies, shade material  12  may be formed of one piece of shade material  12 , whereas in center opening or closing draperies shade material  12  may be formed of more than one piece of shade material  12 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, shade material  12  extends from an upper edge  122  to a lower edge  124  and between opposing side edges  126  in a generally panel like manner. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, shade material  12  is connected at its upper edge  122  to a plurality of rings  35  that are positioned around drapery rod  26 . As rings  35  move along the length of the drapery rod  26  shade material  12  is moved from an open position to a closed position or from a closed position to an open position. 
     Rings: 
     Drapery rod system  10  includes a plurality of rings  35 . Rings  35  are formed of any suitable size, shape and design and are generally configured to facilitate connection of shade material  12  and drapery rod  26  while allowing movement of shade material  12  along the length of drapery rod  26 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, there are three similar rings  35  that form part of the system  10  that generally include idler rings  36 , partial driver rings  38 , and full driver rings  40 . Idler rings  36 , partial driver rings  38 , and full driver rings  40  all include a hoop member  128 , an interior member  130 , and a connection member  132  among other components, features, and the like. 
     Hoop Member: 
     In the arrangement, as one example, hoop member  128  is formed of a generally cylindrical member that is configured to fit around drapery rod  26 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from the front, hoop member  128  is generally narrow in width as compared to the length of drapery rod  26 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from the side, hoop member  128  is a relatively thin cylindrical member having a hollow interior. Hoop member  128  serves both a structural purpose as well as an aesthetic purpose. Aesthetically, hoop member  128  is configured to have a pleasing aesthetic appearance, and may have the same surface treatment or appearance of that as the drapery rod  26 . Structurally, hoop member  128  is formed of a durable and/or rigid member that has the strength to support shade material  12  while moving shade material  12  between an open and closed position along drapery rod  26 . While a cylindrical hoop member  128  is shown, hoop member  128  may take on any other shape or design such as square, rectangular, octagonal, or any other suitable or aesthetically pleasing design. In one arrangement, hoop member  128  is formed of a metallic material to provide optimum strength of rigidity as well as to match the material of drapery rod  26  (which is generally metallic material). Hoop member  128  is configured to house and hold an interior member  130 . 
     Interior Member: 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, interior member  130  is formed of a generally cylindrical member that is configured to fit around drapery rod  26  as well as within hoop member  128 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from the front, interior member  130  is generally narrow in width as compared to the length of drapery rod  26  and is sized and shaped to fit within hoop member  128 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from the side, interior member  130  is a relatively thin cylindrical member having a hollow interior. Interior member  130  is configured to fit within hoop member  128 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, the interior surface of interior member  130  is generally flat and smooth and curves in a generally cylindrical concave manner and engages the exterior surface  46  of drapery rod  26 . In one arrangement, the interior surface of interior member  130  includes a guide member  134 . This guide member  134  may be formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to closely fit around the exterior surface of drapery rod  26  so as to provide alignment and guidance of rings  35  as they move along a length of drapery rod  26 , as well as to provide stability to rings  35  as they pass over guide structure  50 , as well as to prevent rings  35  from tilting and or binding on drapery rod  26 , as well as to reduce noise and facilitate quieter sliding of the rings  35  across drapery rod  26 . 
     In one arrangement, as stated earlier, drapery rod  26  and or hoop member  128  are formed of a metallic material for strength, rigidity, durability, and aesthetic purposes. While metallic materials provide these benefits, metallic materials have substantial drawbacks including they generate high levels of noise and have vibration transmission issues. In one arrangement, to minimize noise and vibrational issues, interior member  130  is formed of a non-metallic material such as a plastic, a composite, a nylon, a polymer, UHMW material, or any other non-metallic material. In one arrangement, interior member  130  and/or guide member  134  is formed of a material which has a low coefficient of friction and/or is self-lubricating so as to facilitate low frictional sliding across a length of drapery rod  26  as well as quiet operation. In one arrangement, interior member  130  and/or guide member  134  is formed of a material which has a lower durometer than the materials which form drapery rod  26  and/or hoop member  128  so as to facilitate vibrational dampening and/or noise reduction. In this way, forming interior member  130  out of a non-metallic material when drapery rod  26  and/or hoop member  128  are formed of a metallic material provide substantial operational advantages. 
     The elements of guide member  134  described herein apply to idler rings  36 , partial driver rings  38 , and full driver rings  40 . 
     In a one-way opening drapery application, a plurality of idler rings  36  are positioned around the drapery rod  26  on the non-opening side. The number of idler rings  36  needed depends on the length of the drapery rod  26  as well as the property of the materials of the shade material  12 . Positioned on the opening side of the plurality of idler rings  36  is a full driver ring  40 . Positioned on the opening side of the full driver ring  40  is a partial driver ring  38 . 
     In a center opening and/or center closing drapery application, a plurality of idler rings  36  are positioned around the drapery rod  26  on the outward sides of drapery rod  26 . The number of idler rings  36  needed depends on the length of the drapery rod  26  as well as the property of the materials of the shade element  12 . Positioned on the inward side of the plurality of idler rings  36  is a full driver ring  40 . Positioned on the inward side of the full driver ring  40  is a partial driver ring  38 . 
     The arrangement of a plurality of idler rings  36  followed by a full driver ring  40  followed by a partial driver ring  38  provides operational advantages, namely a partial driver ring  38  drives itself along the length of drapery rod  26  while allowing the full driver ring to “crush” the shade material  12  at the fully closed position, which means to cause the full driver ring  40  to either engage directly the partial driver ring  38  or thereby engage in close proximity the partial driver ring  38 , which has the effect of forcing an increased amount of shade material  12  at the fully closed position, which has the effect of reducing light gaps in the shade material  12  at the fully closed position. 
     As the drapery rod  26  rotates, the rings  35  are driven along the length of the drapery rod  26  to move the shade material  12  between and opened and a closed position. More specifically, full driver ring  40  engages the guide structure  50  of drapery rod  26  which causes linear movement of full driver ring  40  along the length of drapery rod  26 . As the full driver ring  40  linearly moves along drapery rod  26 , full driver ring  40  has a tendency to push or pull idler rings  36  and partial driver ring  38  as the shade material  12  moves between the opened position and the closed position. 
     Idler Rings: 
     Drapery rod system  10  includes a plurality of idler rings  36 . Idler rings  36  are formed of any suitable size, shape and design and are generally configured to facilitate connection of shade material  12  and drapery rod  26  while allowing movement of shade material  12  along the length of drapery rod  26 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, idler rings  36  have hoop member  128  and an interior member  130  that may include a guide member  134 . Idler rings  36  are configured to allow free sliding across a length of drapery rod  26 . As such, the interior surface interior member  130  of idler rings  36  is smooth and free of any features or teeth or other members that engage guide structure  50 . As such, when shade material  12  is connected to idler ring  36 , positioned around drapery rod  26 , shade material  12  can be easily pulled and/or slid along a length of drapery rod  26 . As idler ring  36  moves along the length of drapery rod  26  the interior surface of interior member  130  slides over the exterior surface  46  of drapery rod  26 . In addition, due to the material properties of the non-metallic material that forms interior member  130  as idler ring  36  moves over drapery rod  26 , the material which forms the interior member  130  absorbs vibrations, reduces noise, and provides smooth, low friction sliding. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, guide member  134  of idler rings  36  when viewed from the side is a partial portion of a cylindrical member that is sized and shaped to fit around the exterior surface  46  of drapery rod  26 . 
     Partial Driver Ring: 
     Drapery rod system  10  includes at least one partial driver ring  38 . More specifically, center opening drapery rod systems  10  include a pair of partial driver rings  38  positioned at the center of drapery rod  26  and inward of full driver ring  40  and a plurality of idler rings  36 . One-way opening drapery rod systems  10  include one partial driver ring  38  positioned at the closing side of the drapery rod  26  and inward of full driver ring  40  and a plurality of idler rings  36 . 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, partial driver ring  38  is similar to, if not identical to, idler ring  36  with one difference being the inclusion of at least one tooth on the interior surface of guide member  134  of interior member  130 . This tooth is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is formed to engage guide structure  50  of drapery rod  26  so as to help facilitate linear movement along the length of drapery rod  26 . 
     In one arrangement, as one example, this tooth is positioned at the approximate top and center of the partial driver ring  38 . This arrangement provides the functional advantage that as shade material  12  pulls downward on partial driver ring  38  through its connection to connection member  132 , this causes the tooth to be pulled downward into maximum engagement with guide structure  50 . However, any other arrangement is hereby contemplated for use where the tooth or multiple teeth are positioned at other positions along partial driver ring  38 . In one arrangement, interior member  130  may be moved or rotated with respect to hoop member  128  so as to adjust the position of the tooth. Alternatively, connection member  132  may be moved relative to interior member  130  and or hoop member  128  so as to adjust the position of the tooth. 
     During operation of drapery rod system  10 , as drapery rod  26  is rotated, due to the weight of shade material  12  pulling down on partial driver ring  38 , this causes the tooth to engage with guide structure  50 . As the drapery rod  26  is rotated, the engagement between the tooth and guide structure  50 , coupled with the downward force on partial driver ring  38 , causes partial driver ring  38  to laterally move along the length of drapery rod  26 . This lateral movement continues until partial driver ring  38  engages non-movable object such as bracket  28  or a stop, such as at the fully closed position, at which point partial driver ring  38  no longer moves laterally which causes the tooth to come of out of guide structure  50  as the drapery rod  26  continues to rotate. As the drapery rod  26  continues to rotate, while partial driver ring  38  is not engaged with guide structure  50 , this allows full driver ring  40  to drive closer toward partial driver ring  38 , thereby crushing the shade material  12  at the fully closed position, thereby reducing light gaps. 
     Full Driver Ring: 
     Drapery rod system  10  includes at least one full driver ring  40 . More specifically, center opening drapery rod systems  10  include a pair of full driver rings  40 , where full driver rings  40  are positioned between a plurality of idler rings  36  and a partial driver ring  38 . One-way opening drapery rod systems  10  include one full driver ring  40  positioned between a plurality of idler rings  36  and a partial driver ring  38 . 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, full driver rings  40  are similar to partial driver rings  38  with one difference being guide member  134  does not terminate as a partial portion of a cylinder or circle, and instead the guide member  134  extends around the exterior diameter of the drapery rod  26 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, like partial driver rings  38 , full driver rings  40  include a tooth positioned at the upper center of the interior surface of guide member  134  of interior member  130 . Like the tooth of partial driver ring  38 , this upper tooth of full driver ring  40  is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is formed to engage guide structure  50  of drapery rod  26  so as to facilitate linear movement along the length of drapery rod  26  as shade material  12  pulls downward on full driver ring  40 . 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, a second tooth is positioned on the bottom center of the interior surface of guide member  134  of interior member  130 . In this arrangement, the first tooth and the second tooth are arranged on opposite sides of guide member  134  from one another so as to match the spacing and placement of the features of guide structure  50 . While two teeth are shown in use, any number of teeth are hereby contemplated for use and are configured to correspond in size, shape and placement to the features of guide structure  50 . As another example, in the arrangement shown wherein drapery rod  26  includes three grooves that form guide structure  50 , three teeth may be present in the interior surface of the guide member  134  of interior member  130 , one for each groove. Again, any other number and arrangement of teeth are hereby contemplated for use. 
     As one example, when drapery rod  26  includes only a single groove as guide structure  50 , guide member  134  of full driver ring  40  includes only a single tooth positioned at the top-center (or any other position) of guide member  134 . As another example, as is shown, when drapery rod  26  includes a pair of grooves as guide structure  50 , guide member  134  of full driver ring  40  includes a pair of opposed teeth, which in the example shown, are positioned at the top-center and bottom center of guide member  134 , however any other position is hereby contemplated for use. As another example, when drapery rod  26  includes three equally spaced of grooves as guide structure  50 , guide member  134  of full driver ring  40  includes a three equally spaced teeth, which in one example includes a tooth positioned the top-center guide member  134 , and a pair of teeth positioned approximately one hundred and twenty degrees along the interior surface of guide member  134 . Any other arrangement is hereby contemplated for use. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, the interior diameter of the interior surface of guide member  134  of full driver ring  40  is sized and shaped to fit around the exterior surface of drapery rod  26  with close and tight tolerances, while still allowing for smooth, easy and low friction sliding of full driver ring  40  along the length of drapery rod  26 . As opposing teeth extend inward from interior surface of guide member  134  the inner diameter of the inward end of these teeth are less than the exterior diameter of drapery rod  26 . Said another way, these teeth extend inward from the interior surface of guide member  134  a greater distance than the dimensional tolerances between the interior diameter of guide member and the exterior surface  46  of drapery rod  26 . As such, when full driver ring  40  is positioned around drapery rod  26 , these teeth are engaged within guide structure  50 . As the guide member  134  of full driver ring  40  fully extends around the exterior diameter  46  of drapery rod  26  with close and tight tolerances, these teeth are prevented from skipping out of or coming disengaged from guide structure  50  as drapery rod  26  is rotated. As such, when drapery rod  26  is rotated, full driver ring  40  is forced to move laterally along the length of drapery rod  26 . This is in contrast to partial driver ring  38  which, due to the guide member  134  only extending around a portion of the drapery rod  26 , is allowed to jump out of or skip out of engagement with guide structure  50  so as to allow free rotation of drapery rod  26  while partial driver ring  38  remains stationary and/or disengaged. 
     During operation of drapery rod system  10 , as drapery rod  26  is rotated, the teeth of full driver ring  40  are engaged with the grooves of guide structure  50  of drapery rod  26 . Due to the weight of shade material  12  pulling down on full driver ring  40 , this maintains the vertical orientation of full driver ring  40  and prevents full driver ring  40  from rotating as drapery rod  26  rotates. As the drapery rod  26  is rotated, the engagement between the teeth of full driver ring  40  and guide structure  50 , coupled with the downward force on full driver ring  40 , causes full driver ring  40  to laterally move along the length of drapery rod  26 . Due to the direct engagement of full driver ring  40  with drapery rod  26 , the operational limits, the fully opened and fully closed positions, are programmed and controlled by motor control assembly  32 . Motor control assembly  32  powers motor  76  to rotate drapery rod  26  until full driver ring  40  reaches its desired position along drapery rod  26  at which point power to the motor  76  is terminated. 
     As drapery rod  26  is rotated, full driver ring  40  causes movement of the idler rings  36  and partial driver ring  38 . 
     In an opening operation, when starting at a fully closed position, partial driver ring  38  tends to be in engagement with or within close proximity of a bracket  28  with full driver ring  40  is positioned in engagement with or in close proximity of partial driver ring  36  and idler rings  36  tend to be spaced out along the length of drapery rod  26  with the outward most ring positioned on the side of a bracket opposite partial driver ring  38  and full driver ring  40 . As drapery rod  26  is rotated, the engagement of full driver ring  40  with guide structure  50  has a tendency to move full driver ring  40  toward the open position along the length of drapery rod  26 . As drapery rod  26  is rotated, full driver ring  40  has a tendency to push the idler rings  36  as full driver ring  40  moves toward the open position. In an opening operation, partial driver ring  36  when engaged with guide structure  50  may drive under its own power, however at other times partial driver ring  36  is pulled along the length of drapery rod  26  by full driver ring  40  toward the open position. The full driver ring  40  continues to move toward the open position until full driver ring  40  compacts the plurality of idler rings  36  between bracket  28  and full driver ring  40 . This causes a compressed stack of shade material  12  at the opening end of drapery rod  26  when shade material  12  is in the fully opened position. 
     In a closing operation, when starting at a fully opened position, the plurality of idler rings  36  are positioned within close proximity of one another between the bracket  28  at the open position and full driver ring  40 . As drapery rod  26  is rotated, the engagement of full driver ring  40  with guide structure  50  has a tendency to pull the trailing idler rings  36  as full driver ring  40  moves toward the closed position. In a closing operation, partial driver ring  36  when engaged with guide structure  50  may drive under its own power however when partial driver ring  38  is disengaged from guide structure  50  full driver ring  40  will push partial driver ring  36  toward the closed position. 
     This lateral movement continues until partial driver ring  38  engages non-movable object such as bracket  28  or a stop, such as at the fully closed position, at which point partial driver ring  38  no longer moves laterally which causes the tooth to come of out of guide structure  50  as the drapery rod  26  continues to rotate. As the drapery rod  26  continues to rotate, while partial driver ring  38  is not engaged with guide structure  50 , this allows full driver ring  40  to drive closer toward partial driver ring  38 , thereby crushing the shade material at the fully closed position, thereby reducing light gaps. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, the partial driver ring  38  is allowed to disengage the guide structure  50  by the guide member  134  only fitting partially around the drapery rod  26 . By guide member  134  only fitting around a portion of drapery rod  26 , this allows partial driver ring  38  to selectively move out of engagement with guide structure  50  when the forces moving linearly are greater than the forces of moving vertically. Similarly, by guide member  134  only fitting around a portion of drapery rod  26  this allows partial driver ring  38  to move back into engagement with guide structure  50  when the partial driver ring  38  is pulled downward by the weight of shade material  12  into engagement with guide structure  50 . In contrast to this arrangement of partial driver ring  38 , the guide member  134  of full driver ring  40  extends around the entire exterior diameter of drapery rod  26 , which prevents the teeth of full driver ring  40  from selectively moving in or out of engagement with guide structure  50 . 
     As the drapery rod  26  rotates, guide members  134  of idler rings  36  and partial driver rings  38  help to smooth the operation of drapery rod system  10  as it moves between open and closed position by guiding these rings  35 , by holding the exterior surface of drapery rod  26  with close and tight sliding tolerances. In addition, the material properties of guide members  134  helps to absorb vibration and noise and helps to smooth guidance of rings  35  over drapery rod  26 . In addition, the operation of the full driver ring  40  that cannot escape engagement with guide structure  50  in concert with partial driver ring  38  that may escape engagement ring of guide structure  50  allows for crushing of the shade material  12  at fully closed position thereby reducing or eliminating light gaps. 
     Drive Coupler: 
     As is described herein, utilizing formed thin walled tubes as drapery rod  26  has many advantages, such as a ready supply of off the shelf tubes, low material cost, low manufacturing cost, among other advantages. One substantial challenge associated with using formed thin walled tubes as drapery rod  26  is that it is very difficult to connect to the interior surface  52  of hollow interior  40  of these drapery rods  26  to impart rotation on the drapery rod  26  by motor  76 . This is because prior to forming the guide structure  50  in the exterior surface  46  of drapery rod  26  the interior surface  52  of hollow interior  40  of drapery rod  26  is relatively smooth with the only feature being interior feature  54  which is a seam line from a welding operation where the opposing sides of drapery rod  26  were welded together. In many formed rods, this interior feature  54  has a low profile. That is, when drapery rod  26  is viewed from an end  44 , interior feature  54  is relatively narrow from side-to-side and protrudes into the hollow interior  48  only a short distance. Making matters more-difficult is that this interior feature  54 , which in many cases is a weld line or weld seam, is not tightly dimensionally controlled. That is, the dimensions and shape of this interior feature  54  may vary substantially along the length of drapery rod  26  from end  44  to end  44 . 
     Another substantial challenge associated with using formed thin walled tubes as drapery rod  26  is that when the guide structure  50  is formed in the exterior surface  46  of drapery rod  26  this causes indentations the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  that extend inward into the hollow interior  48  of drapery rod  26 . Making matters more-difficult, these indentations can vary substantially in shape, depth and position along the length of drapery rod  26  from end  44  to end  44 . 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, despite these challenges, a drive coupler  42  is used to connect to the interior surface  52  of hollow interior  48  of drapery rod  26 . In one arrangement, this drive coupler  42  connects to interior feature  54 . 
     Drive coupler  42  is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to engage and lock onto the interior surface  52  of hollow interior  48  of drapery rod  26 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, drive coupler  40  includes a main body  136 , a plurality of connection members  138  and a drive lug  140 , among other features, components and structure. 
     Main body  136  is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to be inserted into the hollow interior  40  of an end  44  of drapery rod  26  and facilitate connection between the drive lug  140  and output shaft  116  of gearbox  78  on one side and connection members  138  on the other side so as to facilitate connection to the hollow interior  48  of drapery rod  26 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, main body  136  is formed of a generally cylindrical member having an exterior surface  142  that is generally smooth and cylindrical or circular in shape when viewed from an end. In the arrangement shown, as one example, when viewed from an end, the generally cylindrical exterior surface  142  includes one or more, and in the arrangement shown three, flat sections  144 . These flat sections  144  include recesses  146  positioned in the approximate center of the flat sections  144  that are configured to receive connection members  138 . 
     These flat sections  144  provide relief or space for the outward ends of connection members  138  to extend outward from the main body  136  a distance. This relief of flat sections  144  also allows for accommodation of aberrations on the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26 . 
     When viewed from an end, recesses  146  are generally triangular in shape, with the flat section  144  cutting off the point of the triangle that extends through the plane of the flat section  144 . 
     In one arrangement main body  136  is formed of a compressible and/or flexible non-metallic material that is strong enough and rigid enough to endure use, however it is soft enough to absorb vibrations and reduce noise. In one arrangement, main body  136  is formed of a plastic material, neoprene material, a rubber material, a foam material, a composite material, an ultra-high molecular weight material, or any other composite or non-metallic material or a combination thereof. Main body  136  may be a solid object, a hollow object or it may have a plurality of structural members that extend through and/or throughout main body  136 . 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, main body  136  extends a length from an outward end  148  to an inward end  150 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, outward end  148  and inward end  150  extend in approximate planar spaced relation to one another and extend in approximate perpendicular alignment to the end-to-end length of main body  136 . 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, recesses  146  extend from outward end  148  to inward end  150  in a generally consistent and continuous manner. In the arrangement shown, as one example, as main body  136  is somewhat flexible, in one arrangement, connection members  138  are slid into main body  136  from an end  148 ,  150 . While connection members  138  may be slid into an end of drive coupler  142 , when drive coupler  142  is rotated around its central axis, connection members  138  do not unintentionally become dislodged from drive coupler  142  due to the forces during rotation on connection members  138  being approximately perpendicular to the end-to-end length of recesses  146 . As such, connection members  138  may be slid into recesses  146  from an end  148 ,  150  but they will not unintentionally dislodge during use. 
     In one arrangement, to help ensure connection members  138  remain in recesses  146 , recesses  146  are sized and shaped to apply a friction fit on connection members  138  when they are in place within recesses  146 . In another arrangement, an adhesive is used to bind connection members  138  to recesses  146 . In another arrangement, the exterior surface of connection members  138  are roughened so as to impart increased friction and engagement between connection members  138  and recesses  146 . In another arrangement, a mechanical arrangement is utilized that affixes connection members  138  to recesses  146 , which may be stapling, crimping, riveting, screwing, bolting, snap-fitting, friction fitting or any other mechanical process. Any combination of these arrangements may be used to connect and hold connection members  138  to recesses  146 , as well as any other method or means of connecting two components together. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, connection members  148 , when viewed from an end  148 ,  150  are generally triangular in shape, and in the arrangement each length of the triangle is generally equal to one another, which is also known as an equilateral triangle. In the arrangement shown, these triangular shaped connection members  138  include a center wall  152  that is generally flat and straight. Center wall  152  connects at its outward ends to end walls  154 , which are also generally flat and straight. Each end wall  154  terminates on an end  156  opposite center wall  152  which is positioned just shy of connecting to the other end wall  154 . As such, in this arrangement, a slot  158  is positioned between opposing ends  156  of end walls  154  of connection members  138 . This slot  138  is generally centrally positioned with respect to the center wall  152 . 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, to ensure that connection members  138  are held within recesses  146 , the material of main body  136  covers the entire exterior surface of center wall  152  and extends approximately half way up the exterior surface of end walls  154  before terminating in flat sections  144 . In this way, triangular shaped connection members  138  are captured within the material of main body  136 . 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, when connection members  138  are positioned within recesses  146 , the ends  156  of end walls  154  of connection members  138  extend outward from the material of main body  136  a distance, past the plane formed by flat sections  144 , in a generally centered arrangement within the flat sections  144  of main body  136 . In one arrangement, while the flat sections  144  interrupt the generally cylindrical exterior surface  142  of main body  136 , the ends  156  of connection members  138  are positioned in approximate alignment with the exterior diameter of main body  136  if it continued around and was not interrupted by flat sections  144 . In an alternative arrangement, the ends  156  of connection members  138  extend just slightly past the exterior diameter of main body  136 . In an alternative arrangement, the ends  156  of connection members  138  are recessed just slightly to the exterior diameter of main body  136 . 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, connection members  138 , when viewed from an end  148 ,  158 , are formed of planar piece of material that is folded at its corners at the intersection of center wall  152  and end walls  154 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, connection members  138  are formed of a metallic material that is strong and durable. In one arrangement, spring steel or hardened spring steel is used due to its extreme hardness and strength, however any other metallic material is hereby contemplated for use. In an alternative arrangement, a hard, non-metallic material is used. One benefit of using a metallic material for connection members  138  is that using a metallic material is very durable and provides a strong connection to drapery rod  26 . In one arrangement, when the material used for connection members  138  is harder than the material used for drapery rod  26 , the ends  156  of connection members  138  may cut into the softer material of the drapery rod  26  upon insertion, thereby helping to securely, and in some arrangements permanently, affix drive coupler  42  to drapery rod  26 . This can occur, for example, when hard spring steel is used for connection members  138  and softer aluminum is used for drapery rod  26 . Another benefit of using hard metallic materials for connection members  138  is that the point or edge at the inward sides of ends  156  which form slots  158  tend to bite and hold onto interior feature  54  in a secure manner due to the sharpness of this interior edge coupled with the hardness of the connection member  138  coupled with the softness of the material of drapery rod  26  and interior feature  54 . 
     In one arrangement, the ends  156  of end walls  154  are cut or terminate in approximate planar spaced relation to that of the plane formed by flat sections  144 . This arrangement causes the exterior edge of opposing ends  156  to have an obtuse angle, and the interior edge of ends  156  to have an acute angle. This arrangement of obtuse exterior edges and acute interior edges helps to guide interior feature  54  into the slot  158  between opposing ends  156  of end walls  154  as the feature  54  easily slides over the obtuse angle at the exterior of end walls  154 ; while capturing the feature  54  within the slot  158  as the feature  54  does not easily move past the acute, or sharp edge, of the interior surface of ends  156 . As such, the obtuse exterior angle and the acute interior angle serve as a trap that allows the connection member  138  to easily slide over feature  54 , while preventing the escape of feature  54  from within slot  158 . 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, an opening  160  is positioned in the outward end  148  of main body  136  of drive coupler  42 . This opening  160  is sized and shaped to receive drive lug  140  therein. Drive lug  140  is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configured to connect the main body  136  of drive coupler  42  to the output shaft  116  of gearbox  78 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, drive lug  140  has a generally gear-teeth shaped exterior peripheral edge  162  that connects to a generally cylindrical shaped end wall  164  at its outward most edge. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, opening  160  in the outward end  148  of main body  136  of drive coupler  42  is sized and shaped to receive drive lug  140  therein within close and tight tolerances. In one arrangement, drive lug  140  is formed of a metallic material, wherein main body  136 , as is described herein, is formed of a non-metallic material. In this arrangement, in one arrangement, the material of main body  136  is pliable enough to allow drive lug  140  to be inserted within main body  136 . In one arrangement, to help ensure drive lug  140  remain in main body  136 , opening  160  is sized and shaped to apply a friction fit on drive lug  140  when it is in place within opening  160 . In another arrangement, an adhesive is used to bind drive lug  140  when it is in place within opening  160 . In another arrangement, the exterior surface of drive lug  140  is roughened so as to impart increased friction and engagement between drive lug  140  when it is in place within opening  160 . In another arrangement, a mechanical arrangement is utilized that affixes drive lug  140  when it is in place within opening  160 , which may be stapling, crimping, riveting, screwing, bolting, snap-fitting, friction fitting or any other mechanical process. Any combination of these arrangements may be used to connect and hold drive lug  140  when it is in place within opening  160 , as well as any other method or means of connecting two components together. The shape of drive lug  140  and the manner in which it is connected to main body  136  helps to ensure that softer main body  136  rotates when harder drive lug  140  rotates. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, drive lug  140  includes an opening  166  at its middle that is sized and shaped to receive an output shaft  116  of gearbox  78 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, opening  166  is non-round in nature so as to facilitate transmission of rotation of output shaft  116  to drive lug  140 , which transmits this rotation to main body  136 . In the arrangement shown, as one example, opening  166  is circular in shape with a flat section, which corresponds in size and shape to output shaft  116 . 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, the inward end  150  of main body  136  includes an opening  168  which is sized and shaped to receive a clip  170  that is configured to be attached to the inward most end of output shaft  116  after it is inserted into opening  166  of drive lug  140  and through a portion of the material of main body  136 . The use of clip  170  ensures that output shaft  116  does not come unintentionally dislodged from drive coupler  42 . Clip  170  may be a one-way pressure clip, a screw, a bolt, a pin, a nut or any other member that connects two components together. 
     In this way, the softer main body  136  of drive coupler is connected to the rigid output shaft  116  of gear box  116  and the harder connection members  138  are connected to main body  136 . 
     In Operation: 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, drive coupler  42  is installed on the inward most end of output shaft  116  of gearbox  78  by inserting the end of output shaft  116  into the opening  166  in drive lug  140 . Thereafter, clip  170  is inserted into the opening  168  on the inward end  150  of main body  136  and is inserted over the inward end of output shaft  116  after it is inserted through drive lug  140  and through a portion of the material of main body  136  thereby locking output shaft  116  to drive coupler  42 . 
     Once the drive coupler  42  is installed on the end of output shaft  116  the drive coupler  42  and motor control assembly  32  is installed into the hollow interior  48  of drapery rod  26  through an end  44 . As the drive coupler  42  is inserted into the hollow interior  48  of drapery rod  26 , close and tight tolerances between the interior diameter of the hollow interior  48  and the exterior diameter of the drive coupler  42  exist. Or more specifically the exterior surface  142  coupled with the position of the ends  156  of end walls  154  of connection members  138  is within close and tight tolerances with the interior surface  52  of hollow interior  48 . In one arrangement, a frictional engagement is present, which requires force to insert drive coupler  42  into the hollow interior  48 . In one arrangement, as one example, as is shown in  FIG.  16   , when drive coupler  42  is installed into the hollow interior  48  of drapery rod  26 , the rounded exterior surface  142  of drive coupler  42  as well as the ends  156  of connection members  138  are in frictional engagement with the interior surface  52  of hollow interior  48  of drapery rod  26 . 
     In one installation arrangement, it is desired to capture the interior feature  54 , which in the arrangement shown in  FIG.  16    is a weld seam, within the slot  158  of a connection member  138  initially. In one arrangement, the slot  158  of connection members  138  is aligned with the interior feature  54  and the drive coupler  42  is slid into the hollow interior  48  of the drapery rod  26 , thereby capturing the interior feature  54  within slot  158  of a connection member  138  of the drive coupler  42 . 
     In an alternative installation arrangement, during installation it is not needed to capture the interior feature  54  within the slot  158  of any one connection member  138  initially. Instead, drive coupler  42  may simply be inserted within the hollow interior  48  of drapery rod  26  without regard for the position of interior feature  54 . When the motor  76  is powered up for the first time, drive coupler  42  will rotate within the hollow interior  48 . In this arrangement, the exterior surface  142  and the ends  156  of connection members  138  will slide over the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  until an exterior corner of an end  156  of a connection member  138  engages the interior feature  54 . When this occurs, the obtuse angle of the exterior side of the end  156  will slide over the interior feature  54 , due to this obtuse angle. However, once the interior feature  54  is captured within the slot  158  the acute angles on the interior edges of ends  156  prevent the interior feature from coming out of the slot  158 . In this way, the drive coupler  42  is locked onto the thin walled formed tube of the drapery rod  26  and rotation is imparted onto the drapery rod  26  by motor  76 . 
     Once installed in this way, the metallic connection members  138  maintain a strong hold on the interior surface  52  of hollow interior  48  while the compressible material of main body  136  provides some give and helps to reduce the transmission of noise and vibrations from motor  76  to drapery rod  26  and from drapery rod  26  to other components of the system  10 . 
     Alternative Arrangements of Connection Members: 
     In one arrangement, connection members  138  are essentially formed of a triangular member with a point cut off in a parallel-planar manner to the center wall  152 . This leads to an obtuse angle at the exterior side of the end  156  of end walls  154  and an acute angle on the interior edges of ends  156  of end walls  154 . 
     In an alternative arrangement, connection members  138  are formed out of an elongated rectangular sheet of metallic material. This sheet of metallic material is then folded at the corners on each side of center wall  152  such that the ends  156  of end walls  154  terminate at slot  158  after folding. This use of a rectangular sheet of material that is then folded, leads to a point at the outward end  156  of end walls  154  of connection members  138 . This is shown, as a demonstrative example, in  FIG.  28   .  FIG.  29    illustrates a derivation of the connection member  138 - 2  illustrated in  FIG.  28   . The connection member  138 - 2  of  FIG.  29    is essentially the same as the connection member  138  of  FIG.  28    except that the end walls terminate in a relatively flat outward end  156 - 2  rather than a point. In the alternative, the ends  156 - 2  may have an arcuate shape having a radius of curvature about the same as the radius of curvature of the interior surface  152  of the hollow interior  48 . 
     In the embodiment of  FIG.  28   , the leading point, at the outward ends  156  of end walls  154  helps to cut into the interior surface  152  of hollow interior  48  thereby helping to hold drive coupler  42  in place within the hollow interior  48  of drapery rod  26 . This arrangement, also allows the ends  156  of end walls  154  to slide over and capture interior feature  54  within slot  158 , when the pressure applied by ends  156  of end walls  154  allows for such movement. In the embodiment of  FIG.  29    the outward ends  156 - 2 , having a flat or arcuate shape, may provide the same function as the outwards ends  156  illustrated in  FIG.  28   , except that the outwards ends  156 - 2  of  FIG.  29    may contact the interior feature  54  at a location nearer the interior surface  152  than does the outwards ends  156  of the connection member  138  of  FIG.  28   . This may allow for a better capture of the interior feature  54  by the outward ends  156 - 2  of the connection member  138 - 2  of  FIG.  29   . In fact, the outwards ends  156 - 2  of  FIG.  29    may also make it easier for the interior feature  54  to pass into the slot  158  than allowed for by the outwards ends  156  of  FIG.  28   . 
     It is worth noting that performance characteristics of the drive coupler  42  may vary or may be modified by modifying the amount of pressure applied by the drive coupler  42  on the interior surface  52  of hollow interior  48  of drapery rod  46 . That is, when it is desired that the ends  156  of end walls  154  of connection members  138  are to cut into the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26 , a high amount of pressure is to be applied by drive coupler  42  onto drapery rod  26 . In contrast, when it is desired that the ends  156  of end walls  154  of connection members  138  are to slide over the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  and capture the interior feature  54  into slot  158 , less pressure is to be applied by drive coupler  42  onto drapery rod  26 . This pressure and these functional characteristics may be modified by adjusting the dimensions of drive coupler  42 , that is the diameter of drive coupler and/or the effective diameter of the ends  156  of end wall  154 , as well as the durometer of the material of the main body  136  of drive coupler  42 , which may be made harder or softer (more rigid or more malleable) depending on the desired functionality. 
     The connection members  138  may also be configured in different manners to facilitate different functionality. In one arrangement, the number of connection members  138  may vary, from one, to two, to three, to four, to five, or more. In addition, the number of points of contact of each connection member  138  may be varied. 
     In the arrangement shown, in  FIGS.  1 - 28   , each connection member connects at two points to the interior surface  52  of hollow interior  48  of drapery rod  26 . In one arrangement, the number of connection points for each of the connection members  138  may vary, from one, to two, to three, to four, to five, or more. 
     In addition, the shape of ends  156  of the one or more end walls  154  may vary to vary the ways the ends  156  connect to the interior surface  52  of hollow interior  48  of drapery rod  26 . IN one arrangement, the end or ends  156  of connection members  138  may be sharpened to a point, to help cut into the interior surface  52  of hollow interior  48 . In another arrangement, the end or ends  156  of connection members  138  may be serrated or saw toothed, again, to help cut into the interior surface  52  of hollow interior  48 . In an alternative arrangement, the end or ends of connection members  138  may be squared or rounded to help prevent the connection members  138  from cutting into the interior surface  52  of hollow interior  48 . Any other configuration is hereby contemplated for use. 
     Alternative Arrangement—Captured Connection Members: 
     In the arrangement shown in  FIGS.  7 - 14  and  16 - 18   , as one example, the recesses  146  of main body  136  connect to the outward end  148  and the inward end  150  of main body  136 . This configuration allows the generally triangularly shaped connection members  138  to be slid in to recesses  146  from an end  138 ,  150 . This eases that assembly of connection members  138  into main body  136  of drive coupler  42 , which is good. However, under certain circumstances, having recesses  146  connect to the outward end  148  and/or the inward end  150  of main body  136  allows connection members  138  to unintentionally slide out of recesses  146  during installation and/or removal of drive coupler  42  from the hollow interior  48  of drapery rod  26 . 
     This unintentional sliding out of connection members  138  from recesses  146  can be corrected by screwing, bolting, stapling, adhering or otherwise affixing or attaching connection members  138  to main body  136  of drive coupler  42 . However, doing so requires an additional manufacturing step. In addition, each of these methods of attaching connection member  138  to drive coupler  42  can fail overtime 
     With reference to  FIGS.  19 - 27    an alternative arrangement of a drive coupler  42  is presented that helps to prevent the unintentional dislodgement of connection members  138  from main body  136  of drive coupler  42 . In this arrangement, recesses  146  are positioned within main body  136  of drive coupler  42  and recesses  146  terminate within the material of main body  136 . Or, said another way, recesses  146  do not connect to the inward end  150  or the outward end  149  of main body  136 . As such, a layer of material is positioned between the outward end of recesses  146  and the outward end  148  of main body  136 , and a layer of material is positioned between the inward end of recesses  146  and the inward end  150  of main body  136 . 
     In this arrangement, when pressure is applied to drive coupler  42  during an insertion or removal process, if connection members  138  slide within the recesses  146  they engage the layer of material between the end of recesses  146  and the end  148 ,  150  of main body  136 . This engagement stops connection member  138  from unintentionally sliding out of recess  146 . 
     Capturing the ends of connection members  138  by a layer of material of main body  136  may make the installation of connection members  138  more difficult. As such, in one arrangement, connection members  138  are molded into the material of main body  136 , in much the same way drive lug  140  may be molded into the material of main body  136  of drive coupler  42 . In an alternative arrangement, due to the malleability of the material of main body  136  of drive coupler, despite the captured nature of connection members  138  within recesses  146 , connection members  138  may be forced into recesses  146  by deforming the material of main body  136  and forcing each connection member  138  into a recess  146 . Once inserted, the material of main body  136  moves back to its pre-distorted position thereby dimensionally capturing connection member  138  within the shape of recess  146 . In one arrangement, to help ensure connection members  138  do not come out of recesses  146 , an adhesive or other connecting means or method is used to bind connection members  138  to recesses  146   
     Alternative Arrangement—Smooth Hollow Interior—Cutting into Interior Surface: 
     In one arrangement, drapery rod  26  has a smooth interior surface  52  that is void of any interior features  54 . In this arrangement, the ends  156  of connection members  138  cut into the interior surface  52  of hollow interior  48  of drapery rod  26  thereby providing the hold between drive coupler  42  and the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26 . 
     In one arrangement, one, two, three, four, or five or more connection members  138 , each having a one, two, three or more end walls  154  with an end  156  extend out of the exterior surface  142  of main body  136  of drive coupler  42  and engage the interior surface  52 . In one arrangement, these ends  156  engage the interior surface  52  in a generally perpendicular manner to the interior surface  52 . In an alternative arrangement ends  156  engage the interior surface  52  at an angle, other than perpendicular. In one arrangement, when connection members  138  have two end walls  154 , the outer walls extend toward one another, such as that shown in  FIGS.  1 - 28   ; whereas in an alternative arrangement when connection members  138  have two end walls  154 , the outer walls extend away from one another. 
     In one arrangement, the ends  156  of end walls  154  are sharp and pointed, like the edge of a razor or knife, and are intended to cut into the interior surface  52 . In one arrangement, the ends  156  of end walls  154  are sharp and squared and are intended to cut into the interior surface  52 . In these arrangements, the ends  156  of end walls  154  cut into the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  upon insertion of drive coupler  42  thereby forming their own features in the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  and thereby forming a secure connection to the featureless interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  that facilitates the rotation of drapery rod  26 . 
     In one arrangement, the ends  156  of end walls  154  are rounded and/or squared and/or not-sharp and/or are not-intended to cut into the interior surface  52 , or it is not needed for them to cut into the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  to facilitate a robust connection to drapery rod  26 . Instead of cutting into the drapery rod  26 , in this arrangement the drive coupler  42  uses pressure and/or friction to affix itself to the interior surface  52  of the drapery rod  26 . In one arrangement, the combination of the angle of the ends  156  of connection members  138  coupled with the shape of the ends  156  of connection members  138  coupled with the angle the ends  156  of connection members  138  engage the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  coupled with the number of connection members  138  that engage the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  coupled with the amount of pressure that the ends  156  of connection members  138  apply to the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  facilitate a robust frictional and locking connection. In one arrangement the angle of the connection members  138  engage the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  at an angle or a slight angle in the direction of rotation. This angle helps the connection members  138  lean-into or bite-into the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  during rotation which helps transfer torque and rotation without slippage. In this arrangement, wherein the connection members  138  include two ends  156 , one angled in each direction, this helps bite into the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  and prevent slippage in both directions of rotation, clockwise and counter clockwise. Any other configuration is hereby contemplated for use. 
     Ambivalence Regarding Feature on Interior Surface of Drapery Rod: 
     In one arrangement, as is presented herein, drive coupler  42  engages one or more features  54  on the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26 . This engagement between drive coupler  42  and feature  54  may be pre-aligned, meaning that the drive coupler  42  is inserted into the hollow interior  48  of drapery rod  26  with the feature  54  positioned within the slot  158  of a connection member  138 . Alternatively, this engagement between drive coupler  42  and feature  54  may be non-aligned upon insertion of the drive coupler  42  is into the hollow interior  48  of drapery rod  26  and once the motor  76  is powered the feature  54  is captured within the slot  158  of a connection member  138 . 
     In another arrangement, as is presented herein, drive coupler  42  does not need to engage feature  54  on the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26 , and instead in this arrangement the drive coupler  42  and connection members  138  are dimensioned such that they facilitate connection to drapery rod  26  without the need to capture feature  54  within slot  158  of a connection member  138 . As such, in this arrangement, drive coupler  42  and the connection method presented herein is ambivalent whether one or more features  54  are present in the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26 . That is, the same drive coupler  42  and connection methodology may be used with drapery rods  26  having a feature-free or entirely smooth interior surface  52  as well as with drapery rods  26  that include one or more features  54  on the interior surface  52 . 
     As such, this arrangement allows for use of welded drapery rods  26  that include one or more features  54  as well as feature-free tubes that may be extruded, machined, reamed or manufactured by any other method or means. 
     Smooth and Undulating Interior Surfaces of Drapery Rod: 
     To be clear, the arrangement presented herein, with the use of drive coupler  42  that include connections members  138  having end walls  154  with ends  156  that engage the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26 , applies when the interior surface  52  is smooth as well as when the interior surface  52  is undulating or has impressions in it from forming the guide structure  50  in the exterior surface  46  of drapery rod  26 . 
     That is, in one arrangement, when drapery rod  26  has machined features which form guide structure  50  in the exterior surface  46  of drapery rod  26 , the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  is generally smooth, straight and constant from end to end of drapery rod  26 . This is often referred to as a machined drapery rod  26 . Due to the machining process that forms the guide structure  50  in the exterior surface  46  of the drapery rod  26 , the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  is unaffected by the formation of the guide structure  50 . As such, the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  remains generally smooth, straight and constant from end to end of drapery rod  26  (regardless of whether it includes one or more features  54  therein). 
     In another arrangement, when drapery rod  26  has formed features which form guide structure  50  in the exterior surface  46  of drapery rod  26 , the smooth interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  includes impressions, or an undulating surface, which is formed by the forming of the guide structure  50  in the exterior surface  46  of drapery rod  26 . Due to the forming process that forms the guide structure  50  in the exterior surface  46  of the drapery rod  26 , the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  is pressed inward by the formation of the guide structure  50 . As such, the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  includes impressions or undulations in the interior surface  54  where the guide structure  50  is present in the exterior surface  46 . As such, in this arrangement, the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  remains generally smooth with the undulations of the impressions of the guide structure  50  extending from end to end of drapery rod  26  (regardless of whether it includes one or more features  54  therein). 
     Drive coupler  42 , as is presented herein, is capable of facilitating connecting to the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  regardless of whether the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  is smooth and straight or smooth and includes impressions due to forming of guide structure  50  therein. In one arrangement, to ensure secure connection to the undulating smooth interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  connection members  138  are long enough to ensure connection to at least two undulations in the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26 . This ensures a secure connection that is stable as each connection member  138  connects at multiple points to the interior surface  52  of drapery rod  26  thereby providing a strong, stable and secure connection. Also by providing elongated connection members  138  this ensures smooth sliding insertion of drive coupler  42  into hollow interior  48  as well as a secure connection that is robust and unlikely to break free during rotation. 
     From the above discussion it will be appreciated that the drapery rod system  10  and related methods of use, presented herein improves upon the state of the art. 
     Specifically, the drapery rod system  10  and related methods of use presented: that improves upon the state of the art; reduces cost over existing arrangements; facilitates the use of thin walled tubes; allows for the use of formed tubes, instead of machined tubes; that facilitates connection to formed tubes; that facilitates use of less expensive; that reduces the complexity of the manufacturing process; that reduces the amount of time required to manufacture; that reduces the amount of machine time required to manufacture the product; that eliminates the need for a machined tube; that is easy to assemble; that has a relatively foolproof design; that reduces the transmission of vibrations; that dampens vibrations; that provides some give to the system; that is easy to use; that is simple in design; that facilitates quiet operation; that facilitates smooth operation; that is relatively inexpensive or affordable; that has a minimum number of parts; that can be used with any shade material; that facilitates robust operation; among countless other advantages and improvements. 
     It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other various modifications could be made to the device without parting from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. All such modifications and changes fall within the scope of the claims and are intended to be covered thereby.