Device for maintaining window coverings or vertically hanging flexible panels

Abstract

The device for maintaining window coverings or vertically hanging flexible panels includes a frame, apparatus for retaining the flexible panel in the frame and an attachment to attach the flexible panel to the frame. Preferably, the device is lightweight and nonporous. The device is formed into a desired shape in order to maintain a desired orientation of the hanging flexible panel.

1 . A device for maintaining a desired orientation of a hanging flexible panel, comprising: 
 a frame capable of being formed into a desired shape and capable of maintaining the flexible panel within the desired shape; and    an attachment means for attaching the frame to the flexible panel.    
   
   
       2 . The device as set forth in  claim 1  wherein the frame further comprises a plurality of teeth and an opening in between each adjacent pair of teeth.  
   
   
       3 . The device as set forth in  claim 2  wherein the plurality of teeth are formed in substantially parallel orientation.  
   
   
       4 . The device as set forth in  claim 2  wherein the plurality of teeth include a frictional retention means.  
   
   
       5 . The device as set forth in  claim 4  wherein the frictional retention means is selected from the group consisting of protuberances and a roughened surface treatment.  
   
   
       6 . The device as set forth in  claim 1  wherein the frame further comprises a support backbone.  
   
   
       7 . The device as set forth in  claim 1  wherein the frame comprises a lightweight, nonporous material.  
   
   
       8 . The device as set forth in  claim 1  wherein the frame comprises a lightweight, nonporous material selected from the group consisting of styrofoam, plastic, wire and wood.  
   
   
       9 . The device as set forth in  claim 1  wherein the attachment means is selected from the group consisting of hook and loop fastener, a button, a snap and a hook.  
   
   
       10 . The device as set forth in  claim 1  wherein the attachment means for attaching the frame to the flexible panel is a horizontal pocket formed in the flexible panel which pocket accepts the frame.