Systems and mechanisms for use with double blinds and double shades

Abstract

The present disclosure provides advantageous window covering mechanisms, systems and apparatus that permit multiple window shades (e.g., a pair of window shades) or blinds to be operated from a single headrail. The window covering mechanisms permit the multiple window shades to be operated by a single control mechanism, e.g., a single operating cord. A motion translation mechanism is generally for operation of the multiple shades. The mechanism may include oppositely directed windings of first and second lift cords relative to a rotatable member. The disclosed systems may be used with shades (e.g., Roman shades) and blinds such that interaction with a single cord or other control mechanism functions to simultaneously reposition first and second shade or blind panels. The first and second shade or blind panels may advantageously be selected to provide varying levels of light blocking and/or privacy properties.

1 . A window covering system comprising: 
 a. a headrail; and    b. a motion translation mechanism associated with the headrail that interacts with first and second lift cords to effect opposite motions thereof    
     
     
         2 . A window covering system according to  claim 1 , further comprising first and second shade or blind panels associated with the first and second lift cords.  
     
     
         3 . A window covering system according to  claim 2 , wherein the first and second shade or blind panels have differing light blocking properties.  
     
     
         4 . A window covering system according to  claim 2 , wherein the first and second shade or blind panels are of differing lengthwise dimensions.  
     
     
         5 . A window covering system according to  claim 1 , wherein the motion translation mechanism is responsive to a controller.  
     
     
         6 . A window covering system according to  claim 4 , wherein the controller comprises at least one cord.  
     
     
         7 . A window covering system according to  claim 1 , wherein the motion translation mechanism includes oppositely directed windings of first and second lift cords relative to a rotatable member.  
     
     
         8 . A window covering system according to  claim 7 , wherein the rotatable member includes a shaft.  
     
     
         9 . A window covering system according to  claim 8 , wherein the shaft interacts with a clutch and a screw drive.  
     
     
         10 . A double shade assembly, comprising: 
 a. a first shade or blind panel associated with first lift cords;    b. a second shade or shade panel associated with second lift cords; and    c. a motion translation mechanism that imparts oppositely directed motion to the first and second shade of blind panels through interaction with the first and second lift cords.    
     
     
         11 . A double shade assembly according to  claim 10 , wherein the first and second shade or blind panels are selected from the group consisting of Roman Shades, pleated shades, cellular shades, horizontal blinds and combinations thereof.  
     
     
         12 . A double shade assembly according to claims  10 , wherein the motion translation mechanism includes an oppositely wound arrangement for the first and second lift cords relative to a rotatable member.  
     
     
         13 . A double shade assembly according to  claim 12 , wherein the rotatable member includes an elongated shaft.  
     
     
         14 . A double shade assembly according to  claim 13 , wherein the shaft interacts with a clutch and a screw drive.  
     
     
         15 . A double shade assembly according to  claim 10 , wherein the first and second shade or blind panels have differing light blocking properties.  
     
     
         16 . A double shade assembly according to  claim 10 , wherein the first and second shade or blind panels are of differing lengthwise dimensions.  
     
     
         17 . A double shade assembly according to  claim 10 , wherein the motion translation mechanism is responsive to a controller.  
     
     
         18 . A double shade assembly according to  claim 17 , wherein the controller comprises at least one cord.