US010294717B2
`
`(12) United States Patent
`US 10,294,717 B2
`(10) Patent N0.:
`
` Geiger (45) Date of Patent: May 21, 2019
`
`
`(54) SHADE BRACKET WITH CONCEALED
`WIRING
`
`(56)
`
`References Cited
`U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
`
`(71) Applicant: GeigTeCh EaSt Bay LLCS CharleStOHS
`SC (US)
`
`3,103,969 A *
`
`3,142,859 A
`
`9/1963 Kitley ..................... EOSF 11/48
`160/193
`
`8/1964 Suska
`
`(72)
`
`Inventor:
`
`James Geiger, Charleston, SC (US)
`
`(Continued)
`
`(73) Assignee: GeigTech East Bay LLC, Charleston,
`SC (US)
`
`( * ) Notice:
`
`Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this
`patent is extended or adjusted under 35
`U.S.C. 154(b) by 0 days.
`
`CN
`
`CN
`
`FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
`
`2304326 Y
`
`1/1999
`
`2421910
`
`. 3/2001
`(Continued)
`
`OTHER PUBLICATIONS
`
`(21) Appl. No.: 15/994,687
`
`(22)
`
`Filed:
`
`May 313 2018
`
`(65)
`
`Prior Publication Data
`US 2018/0274293 A1
`Sep. 273 2018
`
`(63)
`
`Related US Application Data
`.
`.
`.
`.
`JCaolntilnsuatzigii;fnir£l§::10§ON%. 9135:953792 lvilhiiillfdisog
`'
`’
`’
`.
`'
`'
`’
`’
`’
`(Continued)
`
`(51)
`
`Int. C1-
`A4 7H ”13
`E063 9/50
`(52) US. Cl.
`CPC ................. E06B 9/50 (2013.01); A47H1/13
`(2013.01)
`
`(200601)
`(200601)
`
`(58) Field of Classification Search
`CPC .................................... E06B 9/50; A47H 1/13
`See application file for complete search history.
`
`_
`_
`_
`_
`English translation of office action for corresponding Japanese
`
`Application No. 2015-512793, dated Feb. 22, 2017, 4 pps.
`(Continued)
`
`Primary Examiner 7 Anita M King
`(74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm i Kim and Lahey Law
`Firm LLC; Douglas W. Kim
`
`ABSTRACT
`(57)
`A bracket is configured to be coupled to a support surface
`and configured to support a roller window shade assembly.
`The bracket comprises a side configured to bear against the
`support surface such that the bracket extends away from the
`support surface and is adjacent an end of the roller window
`shade assembly. A passage extends through the bracket from
`the side to an area of the bracket adjacent the roller window
`shade assembly. The passage is configured to receive elec-
`trical wiring therethrough such that the electrical wiring can
`pass from the support surface to the roller window shade
`assembly to power a motor of the roller window shade
`assembly, and the bracket
`is configured to obscure the
`electrical wiring when the bracket is coupled to the support
`surface and supports the roller window shade assembly.
`18 Claims, 17 Drawing Sheets
`
`
`
`Lutron Electronics Co. EX1001
`
`0001
`
`US. Patent No. 10,294,717
`
`Lutron Electronics Co. EX1001
`U.S. Patent No. 10,294,717
`
`0001
`
`

`

`US 10,294,717 B2
` Page 2
`
`Related US. Application Data
`.
`.
`.
`.
`.
`contmuatlon-m-part of apphcatlon No. 14/401,453,
`filed as application No. PCT/US2013/041175 on May
`15, 2013, now Pat. No. 9,237,821.
`
`(60) Provisional application No. 61/647,445, filed on May
`15, 2012.
`
`(56)
`
`References Cited
`
`U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
`
`>>>>>>>>
`
`A>l<
`
`3,333,555
`3,346,909
`3,348,604
`
`3,710,530
`4,023,235
`4,538,785
`5,074,077
`
`5,083,601
`5,848,634
`
`6,196,508
`6,283,427
`6,460,218
`
`6,550,733
`7,267,311
`D557,115
`7,380,582
`7,677,294
`D669,771
`8,695,253
`8,800,634
`D712,727
`8,967,568
`9,237,821
`9,380,296
`
`8/1967
`10/1967
`10/1967
`
`1/1973
`5/1977
`9/1985
`12/1991
`
`1/1992
`12/1998
`
`3/2001
`9/2001
`10/2002
`
`4/2003
`9/2007
`12/2007
`6/2008
`3/2010
`10/2012
`4/2014
`8/2014
`9/2014
`3/2015
`1/2016
`6/2016
`
`Kapnek
`Blackburn
`Gallagher
`
`................. E06B 9/44
`160/3 13
`
`Valtonen
`Cohen et a1.
`Damsgaard
`Toyoshima ........... E05F 11/485
`474/ 1 17
`
`Tedeschi
`Will
`........................ E06B 9/174
`160/3 10
`
`Nijs
`Moller et a1.
`Zingg ................... E05D 15/063
`16/ 105
`
`Lassen et a1.
`Jung
`Zakowski
`Anderson et a1.
`Bohlen
`Geiger
`Bednarksi
`Gramsch
`Geiger
`Wills et a1.
`Geiger
`Hyun
`
`9,988,839 B2 *
`2003/0051830 A1
`2004/0129849 A1*
`
`6/2018 Geiger ..................... A47H 1/13
`3/2003 Garcia Garcia
`7/2004 Walker .................... E06B 9/174
`248/266
`
`8/2005 Nien
`2005/0183835 A1
`3/2007 Liu
`2007/0056699 A1
`2/2011 Bell et a1.
`2011/0024061 A1
`6/2011 Daniels
`2011/0139382 A1
`4/2017 Slivka ....................... E06B 9/42
`2017/0101820 A1*
`2018/0310745 A1* 11/2018 Giri ........................... E06B 9/50
`
`FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
`
`CN
`EP
`JP
`JP
`JP
`JP
`W0
`WO
`
`4241910 Y
`1 806 472
`2581990 U
`2002-536575 A
`4005148 B
`2009-531568 A
`WO 00/47858
`WO-2007/110072 A1
`
`3/2001
`7/2007
`7/1998
`10/2002
`8/2007
`9/2009
`8/2000
`10/2007
`
`OTHER PUBLICATIONS
`
`Extended European Search Report for EP Application No. 13790000.
`7, dated Mar. 1, 2016, 7 pages.
`International Search Report and Written Opinion regarding PCT/
`US2013/041175, dated Sep. 12, 2013, 9 pages.
`SOMFY SAS, S0nesse(r) 30 RTS, Installation Manual, 2009 (13
`pages).
`SOMFY Systems, Inc., Motor Catalog, Dec. 2003, (78 pages).
`HEAVi, LLC, Window Casing Shade mounts Without Visible Fastners,
`2010 (1 page).
`International Search Report, PCT/US2018/049292, dated Oct. 3,
`2018, (8 pages).
`HEAVI, Invoice dated Jan. 18, 2010 (4 page).
`HEAVI, Invoice dated Jan. 18, 2010 (1 page).
`
`* cited by examiner
`
`0002
`
`0002
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`May 21,2019
`
`Sheet 1 of 17
`
`US 10,294,717 132
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`
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`0003
`
`0003
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`May 21, 2019
`
`Sheet 2 0f 17
`
`US 10,294,717 B2
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`FiG. 3
`
`FIG. 4A
`
`
`
`0004
`
`0004
`
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`May 21, 2019
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`Sheet 3 of 17
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`US 10,294,717 B2
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`FIG. 5
`
`
`
`621
`
`0005
`
`0005
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`May 21,2019
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`Sheet 4 of 17
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`US 10,294,717 132
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`
`
`
`
`0006
`
`0006
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`May 21, 2019
`
`Sheet 5 of 17
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`US 10,294,717 B2
`
`\
`
`m\
`
`\
`
`N‘-
`
`\-..
`‘w...
`
`
`
`0007
`
`0007
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`May 21, 2019
`
`Sheet 6 of 17
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`US 10,294,717 B2
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`
`
`620
`
`
`
`0008
`
`0008
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`May 21, 2019
`
`Sheet 7 of 17
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`US 10,294,717 B2
`
`FIG. 12A
`
`1255
`
`.‘1
`1220/7 e 1223
`
`FIG. 123
`
`FIG. 120
`
`1222A
`
`1222A
`
`1221/
`
`FlG' 12D
`
`1228'1222A
`
`I
`
`FIG. 12E
`
`1223
`
`1222A
`
`0009
`
`0009
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`May 21, 2019
`
`Sheet 8 of 17
`
`US 10,294,717 B2
`
`FIG.13A
`
`1355
`
`FIG.1SB FIG.13C FIG.13D FIG.13E
`
`1322A
`
`E
`, E
`
`1322A
`
`E
`
`13223
`
`1322A
`
`_g_ E
`
`1322A
`13223
`E E
`E a
`
`0010
`
`0010
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`May 21, 2019
`
`Sheet 9 0f 17
`
`US 10,294,717 B2
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`FIG. 14A
`
`...V 1455
`
`1423
`
`.
`
`1420
`
`o
`
`1423
`
`FIG. 14E
`FIG. 14C
`1421
`1422A FIG. 14D 1422A
`\
`1422A.
`
`F|G_14B
`
`1422A ':
`
`1421
`
`14228 E
`
`0011
`
`0011
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`May 21, 2019
`
`Sheet 10 of 17
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`US 10,294,717 B2
`
`FIG. 15A
`
`
`
`FIG. 15B
`
`FIG. 150
`1521
`
`FIG. 15D F'G‘ 15E
`
`
`
`
`
`0012
`
`0012
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`May 21,2019
`
`Sheet 11 of 17
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`US 10,294,717 132
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`FIG. 16A
`
`
`
`FIG. 168
`
`FIG. 16C
`
`1601
`
`1601
`
`0013
`
`0013
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`May 21,2019
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`Sheet 12 of 17
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`US 10,294,717 132
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`FIG. 17A
`
`1455
`
`1455
`
`1423
`
`1423
`
`FIG. 178
`
`FIG. 17C
`
`0014
`
`0014
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`May 21, 2019
`
`Sheet 13 of 17
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`US 10,294,717 B2
`
`FIG. 18A
`
`1555
`
`1555
`
`15408
`
`FIG. 188
`
`FIG. 180
`
`1540A
`
`1 54GB
`
`WISE?
`
`IIISIIE'
`
`WEI!
`
`EIIIIIE'
`
`0015
`
`0015
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`May 21,2019
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`Sheet 14 of 17
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`US 10,294,717 132
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`FIG. 19A
`
`1609
`
`1609
`
`
`
`1611
`
`1611
`
`1610
`
`FIG. 198
`
`1901
`
`FIG. 19C
`
`1901
`
`0016
`
`0016
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`May 21, 2019
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`Sheet 15 of 17
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`US 10,294,717 B2
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`
`
`0017
`
`0017
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`May 21, 2019
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`Sheet 16 of 17
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`US 10,294,717 B2
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`FIG. 21
`
`2100
`
`2130
`
`0018
`
`0018
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`May 21, 2019
`
`Sheet 17 of 17
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`US 10,294,717 B2
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`
`
`0019
`
`0019
`
`

`

`US 10,294,717 B2
`
`1
`SHADE BRACKET WITH CONCEALED
`WIRING
`
`CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED
`APPLICATIONS
`
`The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent
`application Ser. No. 14/997,211, filed on Jan. 15, 2016,
`which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application
`Ser. No. 14/401,453, filed on May 15, 2013, now U.S. Pat.
`No. 9,237,821, which is a U.S. national stage of and claims
`priority to and the benefit of International Application No.
`PCTIUS2013/041175, filed on May 15, 2013, which claims
`priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Appli(cid:173)
`cation No. 61/647,445, filed on May 15, 2012, each of which
`are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety and for
`all purposes.
`
`FIELD
`
`The present invention relates to fastening devices such as
`mounts, brackets, bracket assemblies, and mounting systems
`for the installation of motorized shades and shade systems.
`
`BACKGROUND
`
`Current brackets and mounts for roller window shades
`and shade systems are typically bulky, visible, and may
`detract from the aesthetics of the shade system. Hence, there
`remains a need for improved assembly for mounting shades
`and shade systems, including motorized shades.
`
`SUMMARY
`
`The present embodiments provide for a system of fasten(cid:173)
`ing devices, e.g., mounts, brackets, and assemblies for
`installing roller window shades. The system can include a
`bracket that can be configured to be coupled to a support
`surface and configured to support a roller window shade
`assembly, the bracket comprising: a side configured to bear
`against the support surface such that the bracket extends
`away from the support surface and is adjacent an end of the
`roller window shade assembly; a passage extending through
`the bracket from the side to an area of the bracket adjacent
`the roller window shade assembly; wherein the passage is 45
`configured to receive electrical wiring therethrough such
`that the electrical wiring can pass from the support surface
`to the roller window shade assembly to power a motor of the
`roller window shade assembly, and wherein the bracket is
`configured to obscure the electrical wiring when the bracket 50
`is coupled to the support surface and supports the roller
`window shade assembly. The passage can includes a first
`recess and a second recess, wherein the first recess extends
`away from the support surface and the second recess extends
`away from the roller window shade assembly when the 55
`bracket is coupled to the support surface and supports the
`roller window shade assembly, wherein the first recess
`intersects the second recess, and wherein the second recess
`is larger than the first recess. The bracket can be configured
`to be coupled to a support surface and configured to support 60
`a roller window shade assembly, the bracket comprising: a
`first surface configured to bear against the support surface;
`a second surface extending substantially perpendicular to the
`first surface, wherein the second surface is configured to
`extend adjacent an end of the roller window shade assembly; 65
`an opening extending through the bracket, the opening
`having a first end adjacent the first surface and a second end
`
`2
`adjacent the second surface, wherein the second end is
`configured to be positioned adjacent the roller window shade
`assembly when the roller window shade assembly is sup(cid:173)
`ported by the bracket; wherein the opening is configured to
`receive electrical wiring therethrough such that the electrical
`wiring can pass from the support surface to the roller
`window shade assembly to power a motor of the roller
`window shade assembly, and wherein the bracket is config(cid:173)
`ured to obscure the electrical wiring when the bracket is
`10 coupled to the support surface and supports the roller
`window shade assembly. The bracket can be configured so
`that a surface of the bracket can include a rounded shape.
`The opening can include a first recess and a second recess,
`wherein the first recess extends from the first surface,
`15 wherein the second recess extends from the second surface,
`wherein the first recess intersects the second recess, and
`wherein the second recess has a greater cross-sectional area
`than the first recess. The bracket can define a third surface
`opposite the second surface, and wherein the first recess of
`20 the opening extends between the first surface and the second
`surface. The bracket further can define a third surface
`substantially opposite the first surface, and wherein the third
`surface has a rounded shape.
`In one embodiment, the fastening device system com-
`25 prises two one-piece, disk-shaped mounting brackets, one
`for each end of a shade tube, wherein the mounting brackets
`are configured such that, in use, the outer circumference of
`the brackets are visible; the mounting means being largely
`hidden within the bracket or by the shade. In a particular
`30 embodiment, the fastening system is designed for use with
`motorized shades, wherein one mounting bracket is config(cid:173)
`ured to key the shade motor, and one mounting bracket is
`configured to receive the idler pin.
`Another embodiment provides for a two-piece "invisible
`35 mount" fastening device comprising a mounting plate and a
`bracket, each configured to receive a means to secure the
`bracket to the mounting plate; and, optionally, a securing
`means. In use, the bracket surrounds the mounting plate,
`obscuring it from view. In one embodiment, the fastening
`40 device is configured to receive two ends of opposing shade
`tubes (i.e., a shade coupler). In another embodiment, the
`bracket is configured with a "key" projection. In yet another
`embodiment, the bracket is configured to receive an idler
`pin.
`Yet another embodiment provides for a system for mount(cid:173)
`ing at least two tube shades comprising the mounting
`bracket system (i.e., two disk-shaped mounting brackets)
`and at least one "invisible mount" two-piece shade coupler
`fastening device. In a particular embodiment, at least one of
`the shades is motorized.
`Another embodiment provides for a system for mounting
`at least two tube shades, comprising at least three two-piece
`"invisible mount" fastening devices. In a particular embodi(cid:173)
`ment, at least one of the shades is motorized and the system
`comprises a motor mount fastening device, a idler mount
`fastening device, and at least one shade coupler.
`
`DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
`
`FIG. 1 shows a view of an example fastening device
`having a mounting plate, a bracket, and a set screw. Dashed
`lines indicate the direction of screws used to secure the
`mounting plate to a flat surface (e.g., a window casing or
`wall).
`FIG. 2 shows the example embodiment ofFIG.l, with the
`bracket fitting over and around the mounting plate and the
`set screw inserted partially into the bracket.
`
`0020
`
`

`

`US 10,294,717 B2
`
`3
`FIG. 3 shows a view of the installed embodiment of FIG.
`1, wherein the outer circumference of the fastening device is
`visible, and the mounting plate is not visible, and the set
`screw is flush with the bracket.
`FIGS. 4A-C are three configurations of an embodiment of
`the bracket, mounting plate, and set screw embodiment,
`wherein the bracket is further configured as a Coupler, a
`Wall Mount Idler, or a Motor Wall Mount, respectively.
`FIG. 5 presents a view of an alternative embodiment of
`the invention, in which the mounting plate slides into and is 10
`hidden within the bracket.
`FIGS. 6A-D show various views of a one-piece idler
`mount disk-shaped mounting bracket.
`FIGS. 7A-D show various views of a one-piece motor
`mount disk-shaped mounting bracket.
`FIG. 8 shows the mounting brackets of FIG. 6 and FIG.
`7 in use on a shade, depicted by dashed lines.
`FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
`fastening device configured as a Coupler, installed with two
`tube shades. Note that the set screw is obscured by the shade,
`leaving a clean, simple bracket in view.
`FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a one-piece idler mount
`disk-shaped mounting bracket installed with a tube shade.
`FIG. 11 is a depiction of two tube shades assembled with
`the fastening devices of some embodiments of the present
`invention.
`FIG. 12A is a top view of an idler mount according to an
`embodiment.
`FIGS. 12B-C are side and plan views, respectively, of the
`idler mount of FIG. 12A according to an embodiment.
`FIGS. 12D-E are side and plan views, respectively, of the
`idler mount of FIG. 12A according to another embodiment.
`FIG. 13A is a top view of a motor mount according to an
`embodiment.
`FIGS. 13B-C are side and plan views, respectively, of the
`motor mount of FIG. 13A according to an embodiment.
`FIGS. 13D-E are side and plan views, respectively, of the
`motor mount of FIG. 13A according to another embodiment. 40
`FIG. 14A is a top view of a dual idler mount according to
`an embodiment.
`FIGS. 14B-C are side and plan views, respectively, of the
`dual idler mount of FIG. 14A according to an embodiment.
`FIGS. 14D-E are side and plan views, respectively, of the 45
`dual idler mount of FIG. 14A according to another embodi(cid:173)
`ment.
`FIG. 15A is a top view of a dual motor mount according
`to an embodiment.
`FIGS. 15B-C are side and plan views, respectively, of the 50
`dual motor mount of FIG. 15Aaccording to an embodiment.
`FIGS. 15D-E are side and plan views, respectively, of the
`dual motor mount of FIG. 15A according to another embodi(cid:173)
`ment.
`FIGS. 16A-C are top, side and plan views, respectively, of 55
`a fastening device according to an embodiment.
`FIGS. 17A-C are top, side and plan views, respectively, of
`a dual idler mount according to an embodiment.
`FIGS. 18A-C are top, side and plan views, respectively, of
`a dual motor mount according to an embodiment.
`FIGS. 19A-C are top, side and plan views, respectively, of
`a fastening device according to an embodiment.
`FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a fastening device having
`brackets position at a 90 degree angle with respect to each
`other according to an embodiment.
`FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a bracket having an
`opening therethrough according to an embodiment.
`
`4
`FIG. 22 is a view of a fastening device including a
`bracket, a mount, a set screw, and two retaining screws,
`according to an example embodiment.
`FIG. 23 is a view of the fastening device of FIG. 22 in an
`installed position with the bracket fitting over the mount and
`retaining screws, and the set screw inserted partially into the
`bracket.
`
`DETAILED DESCRIPTION
`
`The present invention is not limited to the particular
`methodology, protocols, and expression of design elements,
`etc., described herein and as such may vary. The terminol(cid:173)
`ogy used herein is for the purpose of describing particular
`15 embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope of
`the present invention, which is defined solely by the claims.
`As used herein and in the claims, the singular forms
`include the plural reference and vice versa unless the context
`clearly indicates otherwise. The term "or" is inclusive unless
`20 modified, for example, by "either." For brevity and clarity,
`a particular quantity of an item may be described or shown
`while the actual quantity of the item may differ. Other than
`in the operating examples, or where otherwise indicated, all
`numbers expressing measurements used herein should be
`25 understood as modified in all instances by the term "about,"
`allowing for ranges accepted in the art.
`All patents and other publications identified are expressly
`incorporated herein by reference for the purpose of describ(cid:173)
`ing and disclosing,
`for example,
`the methodologies
`30 described in such publications that might be used in con(cid:173)
`nection with the present invention. These publications are
`provided solely for their disclosure prior to the filing date of
`the present application. Nothing in this regard should be
`construed as an admission that the inventors are not entitled
`35 to antedate such disclosure by virtue of prior invention or for
`any other reason. All statements as to the date or represen(cid:173)
`tation as to the contents of these documents is based on the
`information available to the applicants and does not consti-
`tute any admission as to the correctness of the dates or
`contents of these documents.
`Unless defined otherwise, all technical terms used herein
`have the same meaning as those commonly understood to
`one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention
`pertains. Although any known methods, devices, and mate(cid:173)
`rials may be used in the practice or testing of the invention,
`the methods, devices, and materials in this regard are
`described herein.
`Embodiments of the present invention provide for
`improved means for mounting window shades (roller
`shades), including motorized shades, in which the portion of
`the mounting means (i.e., the "mount", "mounting plate", or
`"mounting bracket") affixed to the supporting structure (e. g.,
`the window casing, walls, columns, etc.) are hidden from
`view by the structure of the bracket or mounting bracket. In
`some embodiments, the mounting bracket is a one-piece,
`disk-shaped device, having recessed apertures to receive
`means to secure the mounting plate, and further configured
`either to connect to the shade motor or clutch; or to hold a
`shade idler pin or pin. The disk-shape is selected for
`60 aesthetic reasons: to harmonize visually with the round
`nature of the shade tube, but other shapes of mounting plates
`are possible.
`Another embodiment of the invention provides for a
`bracket, a mounting plate, and, optionally, a connecting
`65 means, whereby the bracket and mounting plate are config(cid:173)
`ured such that, in use, the bracket fits over the mounting
`plate, being secured together by a connecting means, such
`
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`

`US 10,294,717 B2
`
`5
`that the mounting plate is hidden by the bracket. Optionally,
`the connecting means can be positioned on the body of the
`bracket at a location that will be hidden by the shade tube.
`The connecting means that secures the bracket to the mount(cid:173)
`ing plate can comprise a pin and cam assembly, a set screw, 5
`a rod and spring, etc., as will be illustrated further by
`non-limiting embodiments herein.
`The fastening devices of embodiments of the present
`invention can be made of any material suitable for being
`manufactured and capable of bearing the weight of shades, 10
`such as motorized shades. Such materials include metals,
`metal alloys, ceramics, plastics, and the like. The fastening
`devices can be manufactured by conventional processes.
`Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of
`the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in
`the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numer(cid:173)
`als refer to the like elements throughout. The embodiments
`are described below to explain the present invention by
`referring to the figures.
`An example embodiment of a fastening device for secur(cid:173)
`ing roller window shades to the desired wall, window
`casing, and the like, is shown in FIG. 1. The embodiment
`includes a bracket (1), mounting plate (2) and a set screw
`(3). The mounting plate (2) has one side or end adapted to
`abut a flat surface, and a peg (6) projects from the opposite
`side. The mounting plate (2) also bears two apertures (5)
`through which fastening means (e.g., screws) can be inserted
`as indicated by the dashed lines to secure the mounting plate
`to a flat surface. The peg ( 6) bears a screw bore (7) that
`passes through the entire peg, and has an internally threaded
`surface for receiving the set screw. The bracket (1) is
`configured with an opening (8) to receive the mounting plate
`(2), and is configured to abut a flat surface. The bracket (1)
`also bears a screw bore (9) that passes through the entire
`body (i.e., width) of the bracket, for receiving the set screw.
`In the particular embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the bracket
`has an opening (10) for receiving one end of each of two
`opposing shade tubes, which tubes may interlock within the
`opening (10). The particular embodiment also has a bearing
`(11) within the opening (10), which allows the tubes to spin
`freely, minimizing friction and wear. Further regarding the
`bearing, this can be any appropriately sized commercially
`available bearing that, when the bracket is so configured,
`snaps into place. The bearing can be metal or ceramic, for
`example.
`In use, the mounting plate (2) is secured to a flat surface
`using screws or other appropriate fastening means that are
`inserted through the apertures (5) in the mounting plate (2)
`in the direction indicated by the dashed lines of FIG. 1. Once
`this the mounting plate (2) is secured, the bracket (1) is 50
`inserted over the mounting plate (2), such that the flat
`surfaces (4, 12) align, and the screw bores (7, 9) align. A
`view of this is shown in FIG. 2, which also shows the set
`screw (3) partially inserted into the bracket (1) screw bore
`(9). Once the bracket (1) is in place, the set screw (3) is then 55
`secured through the bore holes (7, 9) of the bracket (1) and
`peg (6). Note that the end (12) of the bracket and the flat
`surface ( 4) of the mounting plate align to create a flat surface
`that will evenly abut a complementary flat surface. Also note
`that, in this embodiment, the outer dimensions of the mount- 60
`ing plate (2) fit in the interior of the receiving portion (8) of
`the bracket (1) in hand-in-glove fashion. The length of the
`set screw (3) is about equal to the width of the bracket (1),
`such that when fully inserted, the set screw (3) joins the peg
`(6) with both sides of the bracket (1). and the set screw (3) 65
`has no protruding surfaces. Moreover, in this particular
`embodiment, the screw bore (9) is placed close to the
`
`6
`opening (10) for the tube, such that when the shade tubes are
`inserted into the fastening device, the screw bore is hidden
`from view by the shade. Once this fastening device is
`mounted on the flat surface, the outer circumference (13) is
`visible from the side view; the mounting plate (2) being
`obscured from view. A perspective view ofthe embodiment
`affixed to a horizontal, flat surface, is shown in FIG. 3, which
`demonstrates that the mounting plate (2) is no longer visible
`once the bracket (1) is in place and secured with the set
`screw (3). See also FIG. 9.
`FIGS. 4A-4C present three embodiments of the fastening
`device, in which the brackets have been configured to serve
`as a Coupler (see FIGS. 1-3); or as a mount for the motor
`side of a motorized shade tube (Motor Wall Mount); or as a
`15 monnt for the end of the tube opposite the motor (Wall
`Mount Idler). More specifically, the Motor Wall Mount
`includes a "keying portion" or "key" (430) that, in use,
`provides a structure against which the motor can torque. The
`Wall Mount Idler has a hole ( 431) into which an idler pin can
`20 fit. The means connecting the bracket to the mounting plate
`in these embodiments comprises a rod ( 46) that projects into
`the bracket, the rod including a groove ( 47) that receives a
`set screw. Alternatively, the rod can be configured as a pin
`to receive a set screw configured as a cam (i.e., a pin and cam
`25 or "knock down" assembly).
`FIG. 5 presents an alternative fastening device in which
`the bracket (51) slides over the mounting plate (52). More
`specifically, mounting plate (52) has two apertures (55)
`through which means are inserted to secure the mounting
`30 plate (52) to a flat surface. The mounting plate (52) is
`configured to have flanged portion (516) that fits the comple(cid:173)
`mentary base (517) of the bracket (51). Thus, in use, after the
`mounting plate (52) is secured to a flat surface, the bracket
`(51) slides over the mounting plate (52), and hides it from
`35 view. The bracket (51) is further secured by a fastening
`means inserted through the slot (518).
`The fastening device comprising a bracket that covers the
`mounting plate provides an aesthetically pleasing monnt, in
`that the means securing the bracket to the structure are
`40 invisible. Moreover, this device can be secured to vertical or
`horizontal spaces, thus providing elegant flexibility in win(cid:173)
`dow shade installations.
`Another embodiment of the invention provides for a
`fastening device system for securing a motorized shade, in
`45 which the mounting bracket for each end of the shade tube
`is a single piece rather than a monnt and bracket assembly.
`More specifically, FIG. 6 shows views of an idler mount
`disk-shaped mounting bracket (620) having one side (621)
`configured to bear against a flat surface and one side having
`a projection (622) having a bore (623) configured to receive
`an idler pin. The idler mount (620) further comprises two
`apertures (655) through which fastening means (e.g.,
`screws) are inserted to secure the flat surface of the idler
`monnt (620) to the appropriate flat surface Wall, window
`casing, etc. The apertures (655) are configured (i.e.,
`recessed) such that, in use, the means affixing the mount to
`the wall (or casing, etc.) are not visible. Hence, in use, the
`outer circumference (613) of the idler mount is visible. See
`also FIG. 10, FIG. 11.
`The fastening device system of this embodiment further
`comprises a motor monnt disk-shaped mounting bracket
`having one side configured to bear against a flat surface and
`one side having a projection configured as a key to engage
`the motor. See FIG. 10. More specifically, FIG. 7 shows
`views of a motor monnt disk-shaped mounting bracket (720)
`having one side (721) configured to bear against a flat
`surface (e.g., a wall, window casing) and one side having a
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`

`US 10,294,717 B2
`
`7
`projection that provides a key (740) against which the shade
`motor can torque. The apertures (755) are configured (i.e.,
`recessed) such that, in use, the means affixing the mount to
`the wall (or casing, etc.) are not visible. Hence, in use, the
`outer circumference (713) of the motor mount is visible. See 5
`also FIG. 11. This system is advantageous in window
`casings or between pillars, where the mounting bracket is
`secured to a vertical surface.
`Another embodiment of the invention provides for
`another fastening device system for securing a motorized 10
`shade, in which the mounting bracket for each end of the
`shade tube is a single piece rather than a mount and bracket
`assembly. More specifically, FIGS. 12A-E show views of an
`idler mount (1220). In the embodiment shown in FIGS.
`12B-C, the idler mount (1220) has one side (1221) config- 15
`ured to bear against a flat surface and one side having a
`projection (1222A) having a bore (1223) configured to
`receive an idler pin. In the embodiment shown in FIGS.
`12D-E, the idler mount (1220) has two sides having pro(cid:173)
`jections (1222A) and (1222B) having bores (1223) config- 20
`ured to receive an idler pin. The idler mount (1220) further
`comprises an aperture (1255) through which fastening
`means (e.g., screws) may be inserted. In one embodiment,
`the aperture (1255) is recessed so that the fastening means
`are not visible.
`The fastening device system of this embodiment can
`further comprise a motor mount. More specifically, FIGS.
`13A-E show views of a motor mount (1320). In the embodi(cid:173)
`ment shown in FIGS. 13B-C, the motor mount (1320) has
`one side (1321) configured to bear against a flat surface and 30
`one side having a projection (1322A) configured as a key to
`engage a motor. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 13D-E,
`the motor mount (1320) has two sides having projections
`(1322A) and (1322B). The projections (1322A) and (1322B)
`provide keys against which shade motors can torque. Motor 35
`mount (1320) further comprises an aperture (1355) through
`which fastening means (e.g., screws) may be inserted. In one
`embodiment, aperture (1355) is recessed so that the fasten(cid:173)
`ing means are not visible.
`According to one embodiment, dual idler mounts, motor 40
`mounts and/or mount and bracket assemblies can be pro(cid:173)
`vided for use with two shades. In addition, three or more
`shades can be fit with a single idler mount, motor mount
`and/or mount and bracket assembly constructed in a similar
`fashion as those shown and described above. FIGS. 14A-E 45
`and 17 A-C show views of dual idler mounts. FIGS. 14A-E
`show views of an idler mount (1420) in a vertical configu(cid:173)
`ration, while FIGS. 17A-C show views of an idler mount
`(1720) in a horizontal configuration. In the embodiment
`shown in FIGS. 14B-C, the idler mount (1420) has one side
`(1421) configured to bear against a flat surface and one side
`having two projections (1422A) and (1422B), each having a
`bore (1423) configured to receive an idler pin. In the
`embodiment shown in FIGS. 14D-E and 17B-C, the idler
`mount (1420) has two sides, each having two projections
`(1422A) and (1422B). Projections (1422A) and (1422B)
`each have a bore (1423) configured to receive and idler pin.
`The idler mounts (1420) and (1720) further comprise one or
`more apertures (1455) through which fastening means (e.g.,
`screws) may be inserted. In one embodiment, the apertures
`(1455) are recessed so that the fastening means are not
`visible.
`FIGS. 15A-E and 18A-C show views of dual motor
`mounts. FIGS. 15A-E shows views of an motor mount
`(1520) in a vertical configuration, while FIGS. 18A-C show
`views of a motor mount (1820) in a horizontal configuration.
`In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 15B-C the motor mount
`
`8
`(1520) has one side configured to bear against a flat surface