Patent Description:
The present invention relates to a connector which can be used for coupling fabric to a roller. The connector can be used as part of a roller blind. The roller blind may be used to provide a covering for architectural features, such as windows, doorways, archways or the like.

The roller blind can be used to adjust the height of a fabric used for covering an architectural feature. The roller can be rotated around a longitudinal axis of the roller to wrap the fabric around the roller. This adjusts the length of unwrapped fabric extending from the roller, and thus alters the length of the covering provided. Therefore, rotation of the roller can be controlled to vary the length of the remaining (unwrapped) fabric, and thus alter the length of the covering provided.

It is known that means can be provided to secure an edge of the fabric to the roller. However, some means do not provide a secure connection, which means that when a large enough force is applied, particularly for example when the fabric is fully unrolled from the roller, the fabric may be pulled from the roller. Some means may provide a relatively secure connection when the fabric is being pulled in the expected direction, but do not secure against the fabric being pulled in an opposite direction, which may happen accidentally, for example during installation.

Thus, there is an advantage in providing means to secure an edge of the fabric to the roller in a reliable manner. In particular, it is beneficial to provide such means in a simple manner which can be easily manufactured. Additionally or alternatively, it is desirable that such means can be installed in the roller in a simple manner, for example, without the need for specific tools.

An object of the present invention is to provide an alternative connector for a connecting fabric to a roller. The connector will improve reliability of the connection to the roller whilst being relatively simple to install.

<CIT> discloses a device which has a claw element for engaging with an edge of a rail and another claw element for engaging with another edge of the rail lying opposite to the former edge. The claw elements are connected by a flexible area. Each of the claw elements has a contact area which is intended to rest against one of the edges of the rail. The contact area is curved and has two free ends. When the device is inserted into the rail, the free ends come to lie on opposite sides of one of the edges of the rail. In the contact area, the claw elements are made of a stiffer material than in the flexible area. The shape of the contact area is adapted to the formation of the edges of the rail. To release the device, a lever can be inserted between an extension of one of the claw elements and the other claw element. The device can thus be reversibly snapped into the rail and released again from the rail.

The present invention provides a connector for coupling fabric to a roller with a roller channel with an entrance extending axially along the roller, the connector having a profile in cross-section comprising a first wall, a second wall, a third wall, and a fourth wall, wherein the first wall and the second wall are substantially perpendicular to each other at a first connection at which a first end of the second wall is connected to the first wall between a first portion of the first wall for attaching to fabric and a second portion of the first wall, wherein the second wall and the third wall are substantially perpendicular to each other at a second connection at which a second end of the second wall is connected to a first end portion of the third wall, wherein the third wall and the fourth wall are at an acute angle to each other at a third connection at which a second end portion of the third wall is connected to a first end of the fourth wall, and the fourth wall is on one side of the third wall and the second wall is on the other side of the third wall, and wherein the second portion of the first wall, the second wall and the third wall form a first receiving section for receiving a first edge of the entrance of the roller channel, and the first portion of the first wall and the second wall form a second receiving section for receiving a second edge of the entrance of the roller channel.

The present invention also provides a roller blind comprising: a roller with a roller channel extending axially along the roller, the roller channel having an entrance in a longitudinal direction of the roller; and a connector.

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

The various aspects, features, and embodiments of the architectural covering as disclosed herein will be better understood when read in conjunction with the drawings provided. Embodiments are provided in the drawings for the purposes of illustrating aspects, features and/or various embodiments of the connector or roller blind, but the claims should not be limited to the precise arrangement, structures, subassemblies, features, embodiments, aspects, and devices shown, and the arrangements, structures, subassemblies, features, embodiments, aspects, and devices shown may be used singularly or in combination with other arrangements, structures, subassemblies, features, embodiments, aspects, and devices.

The drawings are not necessarily to scale and are not in any way intended to limit the scope of the claims, but are merely presented to illustrate and describe various embodiments, aspects, and features of the connector and/or roller blind to one of ordinary skill in the art.

The features shown in the figures are not necessarily to scale, and the size and/or arrangement depicted is not limiting. It will be understood that the figures include optional features which may not be essential to the invention. Furthermore, not all of the features of the connector and/or roller blind are depicted in each of the figures, and the figures may only show some of the components relevant for a describing a particular feature.

There are various ways in which fabric may be connected to a roller of a roller blind. A roller blind often comprises a roller, and some form of mechanism for attaching fabric to the roller. There are various advantages of being able to add the fabric to the roller blind without having to insert fabric or a connecting mechanism axially into the roller blind. The present invention provides a mechanism which allows a connector to be attached to a roller without having to insert the mechanism axially along the roller. This means that the fabric could be added to the roller blind after the roller has been fitted in place, for example.

Some mechanisms of connecting fabric to a roller are already known. It is desirable to provide an alternative to such known mechanisms. The present invention provides such an alternative connector which is suitable for coupling fabric to a roller.

The connector, which can otherwise be referred to as a fabric connector, and roller blind of the present invention is configured such that fabric can be connected to a roller by first attaching the fabric to a flange of the connector and subsequently assembling the connector into an open faced axially extending channel in an outer contour of the roller by inserting it laterally into the channel (as opposed to sliding it axially into the channel). Inserting means manipulating, such as for example pushing. The connector of the present invention may provide a reliable coupling with a roller, i.e. the connector may be difficult to remove from the roller when in place, in particular by simply pulling on the fabric and/or connector. More particularly, unwanted removal of the connector of the present invention from the roller may be very restricted, for instance, by hard pulling or reverse unrolling. However, as described below, the shape of the connector of the present invention allows the connector, and thus the fabric, to be removed without cutting, tearing or breaking the fabric or connector. This is beneficial in that fabric can be replaced on an installed blind without requiring removal of the roller. The connector of the present invention may be easy to install, e.g. the connector may be inserted into a roller channel in the roller as described below.

The present invention provides a connector for coupling fabric to a roller. Thus, the connector is suitable to connect fabric to the roller. Furthermore, the connector may be configured to connect fabric to the roller, or may in fact have fabric attached to the connector. Coupling the fabric to the roller means that the connector can be used to connect the fabric to the roller. The connector itself provides the coupling. As will be described below, the shape of the connector is used to couple to the roller. This means that the connector interacts with the roller and is held in place relative to the roller due to the shape of the connector, and the fabric is to be connected to the connector. Thus, the connector can be used to couple fabric to the roller. The connector <NUM> coupled to a roller <NUM> is depicted in <FIG> depicts the position of the connector in normal use. The arrow depicted in <FIG> indicates the tension direction during normal use. The connector is shown in further detail in <FIG>, and <FIG> shows the connector <NUM> and the roller <NUM>.

The connector <NUM> is configured to be positioned in a part of the roller <NUM>. More specifically, the connector <NUM> is configured to be assembled into a roller channel <NUM> in the roller <NUM>. The connector <NUM> is suitable for coupling fabric <NUM> to the roller <NUM> having the roller channel <NUM> with an entrance <NUM> to the roller channel <NUM> extending axially along the roller <NUM>. The roller channel <NUM> extends along the length of the roller <NUM>. The roller channel <NUM> forms a space in which the connector <NUM> can be positioned. The roller channel <NUM> is an open-faced channel, i.e. having an opening. The entrance <NUM> to the roller channel <NUM> is formed as an opening along the roller <NUM>. More specifically, as an opening in the outer contour of the roller <NUM>. The entrance <NUM> extends along the length of the roller <NUM>. A bottom <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM> is formed at the most radially inwards point of the roller channel <NUM>. The bottom <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM> is be opposite the entrance <NUM> to the roller channel <NUM>. For example, the connector <NUM> may be inserted into the entrance <NUM> of the roller <NUM> and at least part of the connector <NUM> may be positioned within the roller <NUM>.

The roller <NUM> may be substantially circular in cross-section. Thus, the outer contour of the roller <NUM> may be formed as a circle, with a gap forming the entrance <NUM> to the roller channel <NUM>. Theoretically, other cross-sectional shapes for the roller <NUM> could be used, such as an oval shape. However, the roller <NUM> is used by rotating about a longitudinal axis to raise and lower a fabric <NUM> when attached via the connector <NUM>, and a circular cross-section is advantageous in order to allow the fabric <NUM> to be raised and lowered in a smooth manner.

The connector <NUM> is configured to be positioned in a part of the roller <NUM> due to its shape. The cross-sectional shape of the connector <NUM> allows it to interact with the roller <NUM> and keep it in place in the roller <NUM> when positioned in the roller channel <NUM>.

The way in which the connector <NUM> can be coupled to the roller <NUM> is described in further detail below. Once in place in the roller channel <NUM>, the position of the connector <NUM> may be maintained due to the shape of the connector <NUM>. More specifically, parts of the connector <NUM> are shaped to interact with the roller <NUM> to restrict removal of the connector <NUM> from the roller channel <NUM> via the entrance <NUM>. It will be noted that the connector <NUM> is generally fitted loosely in roller channel <NUM>. This is beneficial because it allows fine tuning of the position of the connector <NUM>, and thus the fabric <NUM>, on the roller <NUM> after installation, and it also allows axial insertion of the connector <NUM> to roller <NUM> if desired.

The connector <NUM> has a profile in cross-section comprising a first wall <NUM>, a second wall <NUM>, a third wall <NUM>, and a fourth wall <NUM>. In other words, the cross-section shape of the connector <NUM> comprises the first wall <NUM>, second wall <NUM>, third wall <NUM> and fourth wall <NUM>. Other walls might be provided in addition. Alternatively, the connector <NUM> may comprise only these wall. <FIG> shows a detailed version of the connector.

The first wall <NUM> is connected to the second wall <NUM>, the second wall <NUM> is connected to the third wall <NUM>, and the third wall <NUM> is connected to the fourth wall <NUM>. The walls connected to each other may be described as adjacent walls which may be formed next to each other.

The first wall <NUM> and the second wall <NUM> are substantially perpendicular to each other at a first connection <NUM>. The second wall <NUM> and the third wall <NUM> are substantially perpendicular to each other at a second connection <NUM>. This first wall <NUM> and the third wall <NUM> may be substantially parallel to each other.

The first wall <NUM> is connected to the second wall <NUM> at the first connection <NUM> at which a first end 2A of the second wall <NUM> is connected to the first wall <NUM> between a first portion 1A of the first wall <NUM> and a second portion 1B of the first wall <NUM>. In other words, one of the ends of the second wall <NUM> is connected to a part of the first wall <NUM> which is not at the end of the first wall <NUM>. A portion of the first wall <NUM> extends on either side of the first connection <NUM>. The first portion 1A of the first wall <NUM> and/or the second portion 1B of the first wall <NUM> may otherwise be referred to as a flange. The first wall <NUM> may otherwise be referred to as an outer wall, or a top wall. The first portion 1A of the first wall <NUM> may otherwise be referred to as a first flange portion of the top wall. The second portion 1B of the first wall <NUM> may otherwise be referred to as a second flange portion of the top wall.

The first portion 1A of the first wall <NUM> may be suitable for attaching to fabric <NUM>. In other words, when the fabric <NUM> is attached to the connector <NUM>, it may be attached to the first portion 1A of the first wall <NUM>. This may be done prior to, or after assembly of, the connector <NUM> to the roller <NUM>. The first portion 1A of the first wall <NUM> allows connection to the fabric <NUM> without compromising the coupling of the connector <NUM> to the roller <NUM>. During normal use, as shown in <FIG>, the first portion 1A of the first wall <NUM> may be aligned on an outer circumference of the roller <NUM>.

The second wall <NUM> is connected to the third wall <NUM> at the second connection <NUM> at which a second end 2B of the second wall <NUM> is connected to a first end portion 3A of the third wall <NUM>. In other words, another end of the second wall <NUM> (i.e. the end not connected to the first wall <NUM>) is connected to the third wall <NUM>. The second wall <NUM> is connected to a first end potion 3A of the third wall <NUM>, meaning that the second wall <NUM> is connected to the third wall <NUM> at or near the first end of the third wall <NUM>. In other words, the second wall <NUM> may not be connected to the third wall <NUM> at the very end of the third wall <NUM>. The second wall <NUM> may otherwise be referred to as a middle connector wall. The third wall <NUM> may otherwise be referred to as a bottom connector wall.

The third wall <NUM> and the fourth wall <NUM> are connected at a third connection <NUM> at which a second end portion 3B of the third wall <NUM> is connected to a first end 4A of the fourth wall <NUM>. In other words, an end of the fourth wall <NUM> is connected to the third wall <NUM>. The fourth wall <NUM> is connected to a second end portion 3B of the third wall <NUM>, meaning that the fourth wall <NUM> is connected to the third wall <NUM> at or near the end of the third wall <NUM>. In other words, the fourth wall <NUM> may not be connected to the third wall <NUM> at the very end of the third wall <NUM>. The fourth wall <NUM> may otherwise be referred to as a locking flange.

The third wall <NUM> is connected to the fourth wall <NUM> at an acute angle α to each other. Thus, the angle α formed between the third wall <NUM> and the fourth wall <NUM> is less than <NUM>°. The angle α is the angle at the point of the connection between the third wall <NUM> and the fourth wall <NUM>. The angle α is sharp enough to obtain a sharp shape which is narrow enough to insert into opening <NUM>. In an embodiment, the angle α between the third wall <NUM> and the fourth wall <NUM> is less than <NUM>°, or less than <NUM>°, or less than <NUM>°, or less than <NUM>°, or less than <NUM>°, or less than <NUM>°. In an embodiment, the angle between the third wall <NUM> and the fourth wall <NUM> is between <NUM>° and <NUM>°, or between <NUM>° and <NUM>°. The angle α described here is the angle when the connector <NUM> is not compressed, for example, when the connector <NUM> is outside of the roller channel <NUM>. As described in more detail below, the angle α between the third wall <NUM> and the fourth wall <NUM> may be reduced when the connector <NUM> is inserted into the roller <NUM>, i.e. during the connector being inserted into the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM> and possibly even when in place in the roller channel <NUM>.

The end of the third wall <NUM>, where the third wall <NUM> and the fourth wall <NUM> meet, may form a point. This point may be like a sharp-angled triangle which triangle may be 'sharp'-angled enough to allow inserting the connector <NUM> into the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM>. The third connection <NUM>, which is the point where the third wall <NUM> and the fourth wall <NUM> meet, may thus be formed as a solid triangle. This may be considered as a sharp ridge at the end of the third wall <NUM> and the fourth wall <NUM>.

The acute angle at which the fourth wall <NUM> extends away from the third wall <NUM> may be determined by the fact that the total height of the connector <NUM> is preferably less than the depth of roller channel <NUM>, as described further below.

As described above, the first end 4A of the fourth wall <NUM> is connected to the third wall <NUM>. The fourth wall <NUM> extends from the third wall <NUM> at the acute angle α to the third wall <NUM>. The fourth wall <NUM> is positioned on the other side of the third wall <NUM> to the first wall <NUM>. For example, as shown in the figures, the first wall <NUM> is above the third wall <NUM> and the fourth wall <NUM> is below the third wall <NUM>. The first wall <NUM> and the fourth wall <NUM> may be formed at opposite ends of the connector <NUM> to each other.

The second wall <NUM> is on one side of the third wall <NUM> (e.g. above the third wall <NUM> as shown in the figures) and the fourth wall <NUM> is on the other side of the third wall <NUM> (e.g. below the third wall <NUM> as shown in the figures). In other words, the fourth wall <NUM> is positioned on the other side of the third wall <NUM> to the second connection <NUM> between second wall <NUM> and third wall <NUM>.

The third wall <NUM> has a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, and the second wall <NUM> is connected to the first surface of the third wall <NUM> and the fourth wall <NUM> is connected to second surface of the third wall <NUM>. In other words, the third wall <NUM> comprises of a top surface which is connected to the second wall <NUM>, and the third wall <NUM> comprises a bottom surface which is connected to the fourth wall <NUM>. Thus, the second wall <NUM> and the fourth wall <NUM> are connected to opposite surfaces of the third wall <NUM>. In the figures, the first surface of the third wall <NUM> may be an upper surface and the second surface of the third wall <NUM> may be a lower surface.

The second end 4B of the fourth wall <NUM> is a free end. The second end 4B of the fourth wall <NUM> is a free end with respect to the other walls of the connector <NUM> as herein described. Thus, the free end of the fourth wall <NUM> is not connected to any of the first wall <NUM>, the second wall <NUM>, and the third wall <NUM>.

A first receiving section <NUM> is formed for receiving a first edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM>. In other words, when the connector <NUM> is positioned in the roller channel <NUM>, the first receiving section <NUM> of the connector <NUM> can interact with a part of the roller <NUM>, in particular, with the first edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM>. Thus, the first receiving section <NUM> may abut the first edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM> in some positions of the connector <NUM>. The first receiving section <NUM> may otherwise be referred to as first connector channel. The first edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM> may be the left side of the channel entrance <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. The first edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM> may otherwise be referred to as a first roller channel rim.

A second receiving section <NUM> is formed for receiving a second edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM>. In other words, when the connector <NUM> is positioned in the roller channel <NUM>, the second receiving section <NUM> of the connector <NUM> can interact with a part of the roller <NUM>, in particular, with the second edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM>. Thus, the second receiving section <NUM> may abut the second edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM> in some positions of the connector <NUM>. The first edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM> is opposite the second edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM>. In other words, the first edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM> and the second edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM> may form the opening into the roller channel <NUM>. The second edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM> may be the right side of the channel entrance <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>.

It will be noted that the interaction between the connector <NUM> and the roller <NUM> will depend on the position of the connector <NUM> relative to the roller <NUM>. For example, when the connector <NUM> is being inserted into the roller channel <NUM>, the first receiving section <NUM> may be in contact with the first edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM>. However, when the connector <NUM> is coupled to the roller channel <NUM>, i.e. the connector <NUM> is positioned within the roller channel <NUM> for use, the first receiving section <NUM> may no longer interact with the first edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM>. On the other hand, when the connector <NUM> is being inserted into the roller channel <NUM>, the second receiving section <NUM> may not be in contact with the second edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM>. However, when the connector <NUM> is coupled to the roller channel <NUM>, the second receiving section <NUM> may interact with the second edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM>. In other words, the first receiving section <NUM> and the second receiving section <NUM> are suitable to receive the relevant parts of the roller <NUM>, but are not necessarily in contact with parts of the roller <NUM> as the interaction will depend on the position of the connector <NUM> relative to the roller <NUM>.

The first receiving section <NUM> is formed by the second portion of the first wall <NUM>, the second wall <NUM> and the third wall <NUM>. The first surface of the third wall <NUM> may form part of the first receiving section <NUM>. The first receiving section <NUM> is formed longitudinally along the connector <NUM>, i.e. along the length of the connector <NUM>. The first receiving section <NUM> is formed as a channel which is capable of interacting with the first edge <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM>. The first receiving section <NUM> forms an open channel. The first receiving section <NUM> may be substantially U-shaped.

The second receiving section <NUM> may be formed by the first portion of the first wall <NUM> and the second wall <NUM>. The second receiving section <NUM> may be formed longitudinally along the connector <NUM>, i.e. along the length of the connector <NUM>. The second receiving section <NUM> may be formed as a channel which is capable of interacting with the second edge <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM>. The second receiving section <NUM> may form an open channel. The second receiving section <NUM> may form an L-shape. The shape of the receiving section may be curved inwards. In particular, the second wall <NUM> may have a first surface 2C on the side of the second wall <NUM> adjacent to the first portion 1A of the first wall <NUM> which forms part of the second receiving section <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. The first surface 2C of the second wall <NUM> may have a concave shape. Thus, the first surface 2C of the second wall <NUM> may be concave with respect to the first portion 1A of the first wall <NUM>. It may be particularly beneficial that the first surface 2C of the second wall <NUM> is concave to align the second receiving section <NUM> with the second edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM> to the roller channel <NUM>. The first surface 2C of the second portion may be concave which may be advantageous because the edge of the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM> will likely be formed by bending which will be curved (convex), and will thus mean that the first surface 2C of the second wall <NUM> and the second edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM> to the roller channel <NUM> fit together better.

Although the first surface 2C of the second wall <NUM> having a concave shape is preferable, it is not a necessity. For example, the first surface 2C might be substantially straight. The first surface 2C of the second wall <NUM> may be shaped such that, the point of contact between the first surface 2C of the second wall <NUM> and the second edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM> reduces or restricts movement of the second wall <NUM>. As such, the second wall <NUM> can act as an anchor to withstand deformation when there is high loading exerted by the fabric <NUM> onto the connector <NUM>. The first surface 2C of the second wall <NUM> may be shaped such that, at the point of contact between the first surface 2C of the second wall <NUM> and the second edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM>, an angle between an imaginary tangent at the first surface 2C of the second wall <NUM> and an imaginary tangent at the second edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM> is less than <NUM> degrees. This may be particularly important when the first surface 2C is straight. If the angle is bigger than <NUM> degrees, it might cause the connector <NUM> to "climb" upwards due to the force acting on the connector <NUM> by the fabric <NUM>.

It will be noted that when the connector <NUM> is positioned within the roller channel <NUM>, that the connector <NUM> position may change depending on the forces applied to the connector <NUM> as described below. Therefore, the connector <NUM> may not be in a fixed position within the roller channel <NUM>. This means that the interaction between the connector <NUM> and the first or second edge <NUM> will depend on the position of the connector <NUM>. Even when not directly touching the first or second edge <NUM>, the first receiving portion and the second receiving section <NUM> may be suitable for, and even configured to, receive the first edge <NUM> and the second edge <NUM> respectively.

In order to couple the connector <NUM> to the roller <NUM>, the connector <NUM> can be inserted into the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM>. During this process, described in further detail below, parts of the connector <NUM> may move relative to each other to allow the connector <NUM> to be inserted through the opening forming the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM>. When the connector <NUM> is coupled to the roller <NUM>, at least part of the connector <NUM> may be placed within the roller channel <NUM> and at least part of the connector <NUM> may be positioned outside of the roller channel <NUM>. The connector <NUM> may be compressed during coupling, and may return towards its original shape when most of the connector <NUM> is within the roller channel <NUM>. When coupled to the roller <NUM>, the connector <NUM> may return to its original shape inside the roller channel <NUM>.

Generally, the roller channel <NUM> is wider in cross-section than the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM> This means that the roller channel <NUM> has a smaller, i.e. narrower, opening than the space in the roller channel <NUM>. The roller channel <NUM> may be any appropriate shape. The connector <NUM> as described herein can be used in combination with a variety of shapes and sizes of roller channel <NUM> and roller <NUM>. This means that the connector <NUM> can be used, and will fit into the roller channel of, a wide variety of rollers <NUM>, including many of those already on the market (and those not yet on the market).

The connector <NUM> can be coupled to the roller <NUM> by inserting, such as by pushing, the connector <NUM> into the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM>. The connector <NUM> starts on the outside of the roller <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. The connector <NUM> can be coupled to the roller <NUM> as follows:.

During coupling the connector <NUM> to the roller <NUM>, the third wall <NUM> and the fourth wall <NUM> are moved towards one another to facilitate assembly with the roller <NUM>. Specifically, the third wall <NUM> and the fourth wall <NUM> being moved towards one another reduces the distance between these walls, which facilitates assembly with the roller <NUM>. In other words, the third wall <NUM> and the fourth wall <NUM> may move closer together when the connector <NUM> is being inserted, e.g. pushed, into the roller <NUM>. The fourth wall <NUM> and the third wall <NUM> may be pinched completely together or to at least some degree. When the distance between the third wall <NUM> and the fourth wall <NUM> is reduced, the size of the acute angle is reduced. The reduced distance between the third wall <NUM> and the fourth wall <NUM> (when pushed together) and the sharp point of third connection <NUM> allow the connector <NUM> to be inserted through the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM>.

The fourth wall <NUM> extends away from the third wall <NUM> at the first end 4A of the fourth wall <NUM> (i.e. at the third connection <NUM>), and extends towards the third wall <NUM> at the second end 4B of the fourth wall <NUM>. This variation in shape of the fourth wall <NUM> guides the connector <NUM> in a rotating movement when the connector <NUM> is being inserted into the entrance <NUM>.

In this embodiment, the fourth wall <NUM> may be curved. In particular, the second end 4B of the fourth wall <NUM> may be curved towards to first wall <NUM>. In other words, the second end 4B of fourth wall <NUM> may be curved towards the third wall <NUM>. In other words, the second end 4B of the fourth wall <NUM> bends towards the third wall <NUM> and the first wall <NUM>. Thus, an inner surface of the curved fourth wall <NUM> faces the third wall <NUM>. Thus, the inner surface of the fourth wall <NUM> forms a concave surface. In other words, the fourth wall <NUM> is curved upwards in the drawings.

In this embodiment, the fourth wall <NUM> may not be curved, but may be formed of smaller portions of wall, e.g. comprising two straight portions. Such as a first straight portion extending away from the third wall <NUM> at the third connection <NUM>, and a second straight portion extending towards the third wall <NUM> at the free end of the fourth wall <NUM>.

Providing the fourth wall <NUM> as a curved wall as described is beneficial in that it allows for easier assembly of the connector <NUM> in the channel, because the shape of the fourth wall <NUM> assists in moving the fourth wall <NUM> towards the third wall <NUM> when the connector <NUM> is inserted into the roller channel <NUM>. This is shown in <FIG> which illustrates how the curved shape of the fourth wall <NUM> facilitate assembly of the connector <NUM> in the channel. Also, when in place in the roller channel <NUM>, the curved wall better resists the connector <NUM> being pulled out of the roller channel <NUM> through the entrance <NUM> due to the interaction between second end 4B of the fourth wall <NUM> and the inside of the roller channel <NUM>, as described in further detail in relation to <FIG>. The curved fourth wall acts as a barb resisting to be pulled through entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM>.

Additionally or alternatively, the third wall <NUM> is curved. In particular, the first end portion of the third wall <NUM> may be curved towards to first wall <NUM>. In other words, the third wall <NUM> is curved towards the second wall <NUM>. In other words, the first end 3A of the third wall <NUM> bends towards the second wall <NUM> and/or the first wall <NUM>. In other words, the third wall <NUM> is curved upwards in the drawings. The third wall <NUM> and the fourth wall <NUM> may be curved in substantially the same direction.

In an embodiment, the second end 4B of the fourth wall <NUM> projects beyond the second wall <NUM>. Thus, the first end 4A of the fourth wall <NUM> is connected to one end of the third wall <NUM>, in the second end portion 3B of the third wall <NUM>, and the second end 4B of the fourth wall <NUM> extends beyond another end of the third wall <NUM>, at the first end portion 3A of the third wall <NUM>. This means that the fourth wall <NUM> extends past the second connection <NUM>. This means that when the connector <NUM> is positioned within the roller channel <NUM>, the fourth wall <NUM> is extends out past the second wall <NUM> and can prevent the connector <NUM> from passing through the entrance <NUM> in the roller channel <NUM>. This is also the case when the fourth wall is straight instead of curved. Therefore, the dimension of the fourth wall <NUM> may reduce or prevent the connector <NUM> from being released from the roller channel <NUM> through entrance <NUM>. The fourth wall <NUM> may be longer than the third wall <NUM>.

In an embodiment, the fourth wall <NUM> has a length greater than the width of the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM>. This is beneficial in that the connector <NUM> can be inserted into the roller channel <NUM> due to a combination of features such as the acute angle α and first receiving section <NUM>, and then when the connector <NUM> is in place, the fourth wall <NUM> makes it difficult or impossible to remove the connector <NUM> from the roller channel <NUM> because these fourth wall <NUM> is wider than the opening.

The third wall <NUM> may be longer than the width of the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM>. This is beneficial in that the third wall <NUM> can assist in making it difficult or impossible to remove the connector <NUM> from the roller channel <NUM> as described in relation to the fourth wall <NUM>.

Since the third wall <NUM> and/or the fourth wall <NUM> are longer than the width of the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM> as described above, it may not be possible to remove the connector <NUM> from the roller channel <NUM> via the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM>. It may be possible to remove the connector <NUM> from the roller <NUM> channel by sliding the connector <NUM> axially out of the roller channel <NUM>. In this manner the fabric <NUM> is reliably coupled to the roller <NUM> via the connector <NUM> during normal use (e.g. when the fabric <NUM> may be pulled around the roller <NUM>), but still allows the connector <NUM> and/or fabric <NUM> to be replaced if preferred.

The first wall <NUM> and the second wall <NUM> may be integral, and/or the second wall <NUM> and the third wall <NUM> may be integral, and/or the third wall <NUM> and the fourth wall <NUM> may be integral. In other words, the first wall <NUM> and the second wall <NUM> may be formed of one piece of material, and/or the second wall <NUM> and the third wall <NUM> may be formed of one piece of material, and/or the third wall <NUM> and the fourth wall <NUM> may be formed of one piece of material. Alternatively, the first wall <NUM> and the second wall <NUM> may be connected or attached together in some way, such as by adhesive, and/or the second wall <NUM> and the third wall <NUM> may be connected or attached together in some way, such as by adhesive, and/or the third wall <NUM> and the fourth wall <NUM> may be connected or attached together in some way, such as by adhesive.

The connector <NUM> may be formed by injection molding or <NUM>-D printing. In this case, the connector <NUM> would likely be formed as a single piece (i.e. with the walls being integral to one another). The connector <NUM> may be formed by extrusion, e.g. by one tough polymer extruded material. The connector <NUM> may be formed by co-extrusion of polymers with different hardnesses. For example in this case, the second wall <NUM> and the third wall <NUM> are semi-rigid or rigid material, which is beneficial due to their load bearing capacity, and the first wall <NUM> and the fourth wall <NUM> are semi-rigid or flexible material.

The thickness of the walls may vary. Alternatively, the thickness of the walls may be substantially uniform. If one of the walls is thinner than another wall, it may be more flexible, or prone to bending, for example, when the connector <NUM> is inserted into the roller channel <NUM>. Of course, this depends on the material used for the walls. The fourth wall <NUM> may be thinner than the third wall <NUM> to allow the fourth wall <NUM> to flex towards the third wall <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, the fourth wall <NUM> may be made of a more flexible material than the third wall <NUM> to allow the fourth wall <NUM> to flex towards the third wall <NUM>. The second portion of the first wall <NUM>, the second wall <NUM> and the third wall <NUM> (which form the first receiving section <NUM>) may be thicker than other parts of the connector <NUM>, such as the first portion of the first wall <NUM> and/or the fourth wall <NUM>. This may allow deformation of the first receiving section <NUM> to be reduced or avoided.

As described, the fourth wall <NUM> has some degree of flexibility which allows it to move relative to the third wall <NUM>. This is beneficial when the connector <NUM> is inserted into the roller channel <NUM>. However, it is also beneficial if the connector <NUM> is to be removed (purposefully) from the roller channel <NUM>. Specifically, as described, the shape of the connector <NUM> prevents or restricts unwanted removal of the connector, i.e. due to forces applied during normal and abnormal use as described. However, the connector <NUM> can be removed by a user by moving the connector such that the first receiving section <NUM> moves towards the first edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM>, then pulling the connector to pull the second wall <NUM> through the opening <NUM>, pulling the third connection <NUM> through the opening <NUM> and finally removing the fourth wall <NUM> from the roller channel <NUM>. Thus, as mentioned above, fabric <NUM> can be removed without cutting, tearing or breaking the fabric <NUM> or the connector <NUM>, which allows replacement of the fabric on an installed roller <NUM> without needing to unmount the roller <NUM>.

Any appropriate material may be used for the connector <NUM>. The connector <NUM> may be formed of an elastomer material. Any or all of the first wall <NUM>, second wall <NUM>, third wall <NUM> and/or fourth wall <NUM> may be formed of the same material. At least the first portion of the first wall <NUM> may be relatively soft, e.g. formed of a soft elastomer, so that it reduces or prevents marks on the fabric <NUM> when the connector <NUM> is in place. The same may apply to the second portion of the first wall <NUM>. The second portion of the first wall <NUM> may be tough, rigid or flexible The second wall <NUM> and/or the third wall <NUM> may be rigid plastic, e.g. a thermoplastic polymer, or a tough elastomer in order to maintain the second connection <NUM> between these two walls, and thus maintain the form of the first receiving section <NUM>. The fourth wall <NUM> may be formed of a different material to the other walls, and particularly the second wall <NUM> and the third wall <NUM>. The fourth wall <NUM> may be a flexible elastomer which may be beneficial in allowing flexing of the fourth wall <NUM> relative to the third wall <NUM>. The fourth wall <NUM> may be formed of a material with a greater resistance to indentation (i.e. with a higher shore durometer value) than the material used for the other walls.

The shape of the connector <NUM> in cross-section may be substantially uniform along the length of the connector <NUM>. In other words, the profile of the connector <NUM> may be uniform along the length of the connector <NUM>. This means that the cross-section may be the same along the whole connector <NUM>. The connector <NUM> may be formed by any appropriate method, including those described above, e.g. <NUM>-D printing, injection molding, extrusion, or co-extrusion (which means that the walls may be formed of different materials).

The connector <NUM> may comprise fabric <NUM>. Thus, the fabric <NUM> may be attached to the connector, for example as shown in <FIG>. Any appropriate fabric <NUM> may be used. The fabric <NUM> may be used to form a blind of a blind roller <NUM>. The fabric <NUM> may be attached to the first portion of the first wall <NUM>. The fabric <NUM> may be attached to the connector <NUM> by any appropriate means, for example, by adhesive, sewing, melting, tacking, welding, etc.. In an embodiment, welding, particularly high frequency or thermal welding may be used, or sewing for non-weldable fabrics. In an embodiment, the first portion 1A of the first wall <NUM> may be coated with a weldable adhesive layer to allow non-weldable fabrics to be attached to the adhesive layer. Fabric <NUM> maybe any type of fabric which may be woven, non-woven, knitted and natural or synthetic material. As stated above the fabric <NUM> may be attached prior to, or after, the assembly of the connector <NUM> to a roller <NUM>.

In the present invention, a roller blind may be provided. The roller blind may comprise the roller <NUM> as described above, i.e. the roller <NUM> having a roller channel <NUM> extending axially along the roller <NUM>, the roller channel <NUM> having an entrance <NUM> in a longitudinal direction of the roller <NUM>. The roller <NUM> may include any of the variations discussed above. The roller blind may include the connector <NUM> as described in any of the above variations.

After the connector <NUM> is positioned within the roller channel <NUM>, any force applied to wind the fabric <NUM> in the expected direction about the roller during normal use would result in a force being applied on the connector by the fabric, i.e. in the direction of arrow A. This pulls the connector <NUM> towards the second edge <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM> (i.e. towards the right in <FIG>), and results in the second receiving portion <NUM> abutting the second edge <NUM> of the entrance of the roller <NUM>. Also, the first end portion 3A and the second end portion 3B of the third wall <NUM> will then interact with the inside of the roller channel <NUM>. The third wall <NUM> may effectively close the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM> in that the first end of the third wall <NUM> abuts the second edge <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM> (i.e. on the right hand side in <FIG>) and in that the second end of the third wall <NUM> is in contact with the inside of the roller channel <NUM> on an opposite side of the roller channel <NUM> (i.e. on the left hand side in <FIG>).

After the connector <NUM> is positioned within the roller channel <NUM>, the fabric may be pulled in a direction opposite to the expected direction during normal use, i.e. in the direction of arrow B in <FIG>. This may happen by accident, for example, during installation of the roller (for instance while the end position of motor is being set), i.e. <FIG> shows abnormal use. When the connector <NUM> is pulled towards the first edge <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM> in this way (i.e. towards the left as in <FIG>), this results in the first receiving section <NUM> abutting the first edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM>. This also results in the first end and the second end of the fourth wall <NUM> interacting with the inside of the roller channel <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. The fourth wall <NUM> may effectively close the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM> in that the first end of the fourth wall <NUM> is in contact with an inside of the roller channel <NUM> on the same side as the first edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM> (i.e. on the left hand side in the figures) and in that the second end of the fourth wall <NUM> is in contact with the inside of the roller channel <NUM> on an opposite side of the roller channel <NUM> (i.e. on the right hand side in the figures). Thus, <FIG> displays the locking capacity of the connector <NUM> under reverse winding.

Thus, no matter which direction the fabric <NUM> and/or connector <NUM> is pulled in after being coupled to the roller, the third wall <NUM> and/or the fourth wall <NUM> may effectively prevent the connector <NUM> from being removed from the roller <NUM> via entrance <NUM>.

In an embodiment, the roller channel <NUM> is wider in cross-section than the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM>. As described above, this provides space for the connector <NUM> when coupled to the roller <NUM> so that the roller <NUM> can keep the connector <NUM> in place in the roller channel <NUM>.

In an embodiment, a height of the connector <NUM> is less than a total height of the roller channel <NUM>.

In an embodiment, second portion 1B of first wall <NUM> may extend across the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM> when the connector <NUM> is coupled to the roller <NUM>. This means that the second portion 1B of the first wall <NUM> may go from one side of the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM> to substantially the other side of the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM>. In other words, the second portion 1B of the first wall <NUM> may bridge the opening of the roller channel <NUM>. Thus, the second portion 1B of the first wall <NUM> may cover the entrance <NUM> of the roller channel <NUM> when the connector <NUM> is positioned in the roller channel <NUM>. In other words, the second portion 1B of the first wall <NUM> may substantially close off the entrance <NUM> to the roller channel <NUM>. This is beneficial in providing a more uniform surface of the combined connector <NUM> and roller <NUM> because the gap at the entrance <NUM> is reduced in size, or closed. This is beneficial in that the fabric <NUM> when in position is less likely to enter into the roller channel <NUM>, which may cause a mark on the surface of the fabric <NUM> when rolled over the roller <NUM>. The second portion 1B of the first wall <NUM> may provide resistance to the fabric <NUM> over the roller <NUM> so that marks in the fabric <NUM> are reduced or avoided.

The second portion 1B of first wall <NUM> may bend a bit, for example during installation, as shown in <FIG>, or during abnormal use, as shown in <FIG>. As described above, any appropriate material may be selected for the connector <NUM>, and in particular, for the second portion 1B of the first wall <NUM> to allow this bending.

In an embodiment, the second portion 1B of the first wall <NUM> reaches the opposite side of the entrance <NUM> to the roller channel <NUM>, and preferably overlaps onto the first edge <NUM> of the entrance <NUM> of the roller <NUM>. This may be beneficial in ensuring a reliable connection. This is also beneficial in that it prevents fabric <NUM> from entering into the roller channel <NUM> which would otherwise result in a larger mark on the fabric <NUM> than is caused by any overlap. Preferably, the thickness of the second portion 1B of wall <NUM> is tapered towards the end (i.e. thinner at the end), to reduce any mark in the fabric <NUM> caused by the overlap.

When the connector <NUM> is coupled to the roller <NUM>, at least a part of the connector <NUM> is within the roller channel <NUM>, which is beneficial in that when a force is applied which might remove the connector <NUM> (for example, if a force is applied to pull on the fabric <NUM>), the parts of the connector <NUM> can interact with an inside of the roller channel <NUM> to prevent the connector <NUM> from being pulled out of the roller channel <NUM>. In an embodiment, at least the third wall <NUM> and the fourth wall <NUM> of the connector <NUM> are positioned within the roller channel <NUM> as these walls may be particularly beneficial in resisting removal of the connector <NUM> from the roller channel <NUM>. In an embodiment, when the connector <NUM> is coupled to the roller <NUM>, at least a part of the connector <NUM> is outside of the roller channel <NUM>. This means that fabric <NUM> could be provided to the connector <NUM> after the connector <NUM> is coupled to the roller <NUM> if desired, for example, if a fabric <NUM> is to be replaced. In an embodiment least the first portion 1A of the first wall <NUM> is outside of the roller channel <NUM>, which can thus be connected to fabric <NUM>. The first wall <NUM>, and particularly, at least the first portion 1A of the first wall <NUM>, may follow the outer contour of the roller <NUM> as shown in <FIG>.

Some features of the connector <NUM> are described in relation to, or combination with the roller <NUM>. It will be understood that although the connector <NUM> may be coupled to the roller <NUM> as described, the connector <NUM> may be provided separately and thus, may not be provided with the roller <NUM>.

It will be described that the connector <NUM> and/or roller <NUM> are described in some orientations in relation to the drawings provided. Of course, the connector <NUM> and/or roller <NUM> could be provided in any appropriate orientation. The description relating to the orientation shown in the drawings is for clearly describing the features of the invention, but are not limiting on the invention. Thus, any reference to above and below, etc. are understood to mean in the context of the drawings provided.

Those skilled in the art will recognize that the connector and/or roller blind may have many applications, may be implemented in various manners and, as such is not to be limited by the foregoing embodiments and examples. Any number of the features of the different embodiments described herein may be combined into a single embodiment. Alternate embodiments are possible that have features in addition to those described herein or may have less than all the features described. Functionality may also be, in whole or in part, distributed among multiple components, in manners now known or to become known.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes could be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the broad inventive concept. It is understood, therefore, that this invention is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but it is intended to cover modifications within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. While fundamental features of the invention have been shown and described in exemplary embodiments, it will be understood that omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the disclosed embodiments of the connector and/or roller blind may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Moreover, the scope of the invention covers conventionally known, and future-developed variations and modifications to the components described herein as would be understood by those skilled in the art.

In the claims, the term "comprises/comprising" does not exclude the presence of other elements, features, or steps. Furthermore, although individually listed, a plurality of means, elements, or method steps may be implemented by, e.g., a single unit, element, or piece. Additionally, although individual features may be included in different claims, these may advantageously be combined, and their inclusion individually in different claims does not imply that a combination of features is not feasible and/or advantageous. In addition, singular references do not exclude a plurality. The terms "a", "an", "first", "second", etc., do not preclude a plurality. Reference signs or characters in the disclosure and/or claims are provided merely as a clarifying example and shall not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims in any way.

Claim 1:
A connector (<NUM>) for coupling fabric to a roller (<NUM>) with a roller channel (<NUM>) with an entrance (<NUM>) extending axially along the roller, the connector (<NUM>) having a profile in cross-section comprising a first wall (<NUM>), a second wall (<NUM>), a third wall (<NUM>), and a fourth wall (<NUM>),
wherein the first wall (<NUM>) and the second wall (<NUM>) are substantially perpendicular to each other at a first connection (<NUM>) at which a first end (2A) of the second wall is connected to the first wall (<NUM>) between a first portion (1A) of the first wall for attaching to fabric (<NUM>) and a second portion (1B) of the first wall,
wherein the second wall (<NUM>) and the third wall (<NUM>) are substantially perpendicular to each other at a second connection (<NUM>) at which a second end (2B) of the second wall is connected to a first end portion (3A) of the third wall,
wherein the third wall (<NUM>) and the fourth wall (<NUM>) are at an acute angle to each other at a third connection (<NUM>) at which a second end portion (3B) of the third wall is connected to a first end of the fourth wall (4A), and the fourth wall (<NUM>) is on one side of the third wall (<NUM>) and the second wall (<NUM>) is on the other side of the third wall (<NUM>), and
wherein the second portion (1B) of the first wall, the second wall (<NUM>) and the third wall (<NUM>) form a first receiving section (<NUM>) for receiving a first edge of the entrance of the roller channel, and the first portion (1A) of the first wall and the second wall (<NUM>) form a second receiving section (<NUM>) for receiving a second edge of the entrance of the roller channel.