BACKGROUND

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of, and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/344,485, filed May 20, 2022, which is incorporated here by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to a motorized window covering for any environment, home, business, office, or otherwise. More particularly, the invention relates to an improved motorized window covering including a power supply (e.g., battery) and a charging port to which a magnetic charger can be attached (e.g., via a magnetic attachment). The charging port can transfer power (charging) and/or data to and/or from the motorized window covering (e g., transfer power to the power supply).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0003] Various embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings, in which:

[0004] FIG. 1 is an example motorized window covering assembly in a closed position, according to various embodiments;

[0005] FIG. 2 are example interior components of the motorized window covering of FIG. 1, according to various embodiments;

[0006] FIG. 3 is an example charger for use with the motorized window covering assembly of FIG. 1, according to various embodiments;

[0007] FIG. 4 is the charger of FIG. 3 with one side of the cover removed, according to various embodiments;

[0008] FIG. 5 is another example charger for use with the motorized window covering assembly of FIG. 1, according to various embodiments; [0009] FIG. 6 is an example charging port for use with the motorized window covering assembly of FIG. 1, according to various embodiments;

[0010] FIG. 7 is another example charging port for use with the motorized window covering assembly of FIG. 1, according to various embodiments;

[0011] FIG. 8 is an additional example charging port for use with the motorized window covering assembly of FIG 1, according to various embodiments;

[0012] FIG. 9 is a side view of the motorized window covering assembly of FIG. 1 oriented in a first orientation, with a side cover removed, according to various embodiments;

[0013] FIG. 10 is a side view of the motorized window covering assembly of FIG. 1 oriented in a second orientation, with a side cover removed, according to various embodiments;

[0014] FIG. 11 is a side view of the motorized window covering assembly of FIG. 1 positioned in a cover, according to various embodiments;

[0015] FIG. 12 is an example holder for use with an example charger, according to various embodiments; and

[0016] FIG. 13 is another example holder for use with an example charger, according to various embodiments.

[0017] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the motorized window covering assembly of FIG. 1 with a magnet housing according to various embodiments.

[0018] FIG. 15 is a sectional view of the magnet housing of FIG. 14 according to various embodiments.

[0019] FIG. 16 is a block diagram of an example of a controller for use with the motorized window covering assembly of FIG. 1 according to various embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] In the following description, various embodiments will be described. For purposes of explanation, specific configurations and details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will also be apparent to one skilled in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without the specific details. Furthermore, well-known features may be omitted or simplified in order not to obscure the embodiment being described. [0021] Examples herein are directed to, among other things, systems and techniques relating to window coverings. The techniques and systems described herein may be implemented by any suitable window covering, but particular examples are described that include a motorized window covering. The motorized window covering can be placed within a structure, such as, but not limited to, an apartment, a house, a building, etc. The motorized window covering can be positioned adjacent to a window. For example, the motorized window covering can be positioned adjacent to a window to block some or all of an external light from entering the structure. The motorized window covering can include a motor, power supply, and a cover. The power supply can supply power to the motor. The motor can move the cover, for example, between a closed position where the cover allows external light to enter the structure and an open position where the cover is extended and blocks external light from entering the structure.

[0022] [0001] In various embodiments, the motorized window covering can include a charging port. A charger can be attached to the charging port to transfer power and/or or data to and/or from the motorized window covering. The charger can be or include a magnetic connector. The magnetic connector can include magnets that can align the charger with the charging port. For example, the magnets can align with magnets in the charging port having an opposing magnetic orientation. The charger can be plugged into an outlet (e.g., a wall outlet) to provide power to the motorized window covering. For example, the charger can be plugged into an outlet to provide power to the power supply.

[0023] [0002] The motorized window covering can be positioned in a hard to access location (e.g., a high location that is hard for a user to reach). The charger can allow the power supply to be charged without removing the power supply from the motorized window covering. Traditionally, the power supply may need to be removed from the motorized window covering to be replaced and/or recharged. The charger can allow the power supply to be charged without removing the power supply from the motorized window covering.

[0024] [0003] The magnetic connector can additionally or alternatively allow the charger to more easily connect to the charging port. Traditionally, the charger may need to be inserted into the charging port A user may have to manually align the charger and the charging port which may require the user to be positioned near the motorized window covering. This can be difficult when the motorized window covering is in a hard to access location. The magnetic connector can allow a user to more easily align the charger and the charging port. For example, a user can use an extension pole to position the charger near the charging port. The magnetic connector can correctly align and connect the charger with the charging port. The magnetic connector can hold the charger in the correct position, for example, for charging of the power supply.

[0025] [0004] Turning to the figures, FIG. 1 shows a motorized window covering assembly 100 in a closed position. The motorized window covering assembly 100 can include a cover 102 (e.g., a shade panel). The cover 102 can be moved vertically (e.g., by a motor). The cover 102 move be moved between a fully lowered or extended position (e.g., an open position) and a fully raised or retracted position (e.g., a closed position as shown in FIG. 1). When the cover 102 is in the closed position, the cover 102 can expose an adjacent architectural feature 104 (e.g., a window). When the cover 102 is in the open position, the shade panel can cover the adjacent architectural feature 104. The motorized window covering assembly 100 can move the cover 102 to any number of intermediate positions defined between the open and closed position such that the cover 102 partially covers the adjacent architectural feature 104.

[0026] [0005] In FIG. 1, it should be appreciated that, as used herein, the term “vertical” describes the orientation or arrangement of the motorized window covering assembly 100 in its open position as indicated by arrow 106 such as when the motorized window covering assembly 100 is mounted for use relative to an adjacent architectural feature 104. Similarly, the term “horizontal” generally describes a direction perpendicular to the vertical arrow 106 and extends side-to-side relative to the motorized window covering assembly 100, as illustrated by arrow 108. The various directional references used herein are simply utilized to provide context to the examples shown, and thus, should not be construed as otherwise limiting. For instance, some motorized window covering assemblies 100 may have its cover 102 configured to extend and retract in the horizontal direction (e.g., as indicated by arrow 108).

[0027] [0006] The cover 102 may be or include textile, a sheer fabric, a woven fabric, a non-woven fabric, and/or any suitable material for use with the motorized window covering assembly 100. The cover 102 can be sized, as required or desired, for use with an architectural building. For example, the cover 102 can be sized to fit within a window frame 110 such that the cover 102 can move between the closed position and the open position. In various embodiments, the cover 102 can be substantially the same height and/or width as the window frame 110.

[0028] [0007] In some embodiments, the motorized window covering assembly 100 can include a casing 109. The casing 109 can be positioned to cover some or all of the cover 102 (e.g., when the cover 102 is in the closed position. The casing 109 can be architectural in nature. For example, the casing 109 can be architecturally pleasing and/or match the adjacent architectural feature 104 and/or the window frame 110.

[0029] [0008] The motorized window covering assembly 100 can be attached to the window frame 110 and/or a wall via attachment 112. The attachment 112 can hold the motorized window covering assembly 100 in position while the cover 102 moves. The attachment 112 can be attached to an interior side of the window frame 110. In some embodiments, the attachment 112 can be attached to a wall above the window frame 110.

[0030] [0009] A charger 114 can attach to the motorized window covering assembly 100, for example, to transfer power and/or or data to and/or from the motorized window covering assembly 100. For example, the charger 114 can attach to the motorized window covering assembly 100 to provide power to a power supply positioned within the motorized window covering assembly 100. As described herein, the charger 114 can include magnets and/or a magnetic connector to connect the charger 114 to the motorized window covering assembly 100. The magnets can align the charger 114 with a charging port of the motorized window covering assembly 100. For example, the charger 114 can include magnets and the motorized window covering assembly 100 can include magnets with opposing poles that attract the magnets in the charger 114. The magnets can additionally or alternatively hold the charger 114 in position, for example, during charging. For example, the magnets can hold the charger 114 in position to charge the power supply in the motorized window covering assembly 100. The charger 114 can connect to a power source (e g., an outlet). For example, one end of the charger 114 can engage with the motorized window covering assembly 100 and the opposite end can plug into a wall outlet.

[0031] [0010] In various embodiments, the charger 114 can include a connector 116. The connector 116 can allow the charger 114 to connect to a cable. For example, the connector 116 can allow an extension cable to be attached to the charger 114.

[0032] [0011] A holder 118 can be used to hold the charger 114 and position the charger 114 for attachment to the motorized window covering assembly 100. The holder 118 can include an opening where a portion of the charger 114 can be positioned. For example, the holder 118 can include slots where protrusions of the charger 114 can be inserted. When the protrusions are inserted in the slots, the charger 114 can be held in the same position relative to the holder 118 (e g., the charger 114 can be prevented from rotating). [0033] [0012] In various embodiments, the holder 118 can be positioned on an extension 120. The extension can allow the charger 114 to be positioned next to the motorized window covering assembly 100 (e.g., for engagement with the motorized window covering assembly 100). The extension 120 can be or include an extendable pole that can be extended to position the charger next to the motorized window covering assembly 100 when the motorized window covering assembly 100 is positioned in a hard to access location (e.g., at a hard to reach position). In some embodiments, the holder 118 and/or the extension 120 can include a threaded connection (e.g., to connect the holder 118 to the extension 120).

[0034] [0013] It should be appreciated that one example of a motorized window covering assembly 100 is illustrated and described in FIG. 1. The motorized window covering assembly 100, however, may be any type of covering that at least partially covers an architectural element such as a window, a door, an opening, or a wall. In one example, the motorized window covering assembly 100 can be a shear-type covering. In an aspect, the shade panel has sheer front and back panels that extend and retract, and a plurality of light blocking vanes extending between the panels that tilt to open and close the covering. In another aspect, the shade panel has a single sheer panel that extends and retracts, and a plurality of light-blocking vanes attached to the sheer panel that open and close by sliding one end of the vane relative to the panel. In yet another aspect, the shade panel has a single sheer panel that extends and retracts, and a plurality of light blocking vanes that extend substantially vertically that rotate to open and close.

[0035] [0014] In another example, the motorized window covering assembly 100 can be a cellular-type covering. In an aspect, the shade panel has a front and back panel that are connected to each other in a cellular pattern (e.g., a honeycomb-type pattern, a roman-type pattern, etc.) and that extend and retract in an accordion-type motion. This type of cellular pattern creates a layer of insulation (e.g., air) within the covering.

[0036] [0015] In yet another example, the motorized window covering assembly 100 can be a roman-type covering. In an aspect, the shade panel has a single panel with a plurality of fabric folds that extends and retracts via a rolling motion (e.g., rolling the folds) or a stacking motion (e.g., stacking the folds). In another aspect, the shade panel has a front and back panel connected in a cellular pattern as described above and that extends and retracts. These panels include excess fabric to generate the roman-type folds when the covering is retracted, and are not necessarily configured to move in an open-and-close direction. [0037] [0016] In still another example, the motorized window covering assembly 100 can be a roller-type covering. In an aspect, the shade panel has a front and back panel connected in a cellular pattern as described above, but extend and retract via a rolling motion. In another aspect, the shade panel has a single panel that extends and retracts in a rolling motion. This type of single panel can be fully or partially light blocking as required or desired, and are not necessarily configured to move in an open-and-closed direction. In other examples, the single panel can be a UV-blocking shade. In yet another aspect, the shade panel has a front and back panel that each have alternating sheer and light blocking bands. In this example, the shade panel is extended and retracted by a rolling motion, and also open and closed by moving the panels relative to one another.

[0038] [0017] Additionally or alternatively, the motorized window covering assembly 100 can be a shutter-type covering. In an aspect, the shade panel has a plurality of light-blocking vanes that tilt to open and close the covering, and are not necessarily configured to move in an extended and retracted direction. The motorized window covering assembly 100 can be a slat-type covering. In an aspect, the shade panel has a plurality of light blocking vanes (e.g., slats) that move relative to each other to extend and retract the covering, and tilt to open and close the covering. The motorized window covering assembly 100 can also be a vertical -type covering. In an aspect, the shade panel has a plurality of light blocking vanes (e.g., panels or louvers) that move relative to each other in a horizontal direction to extend and retract the covering, and rotate to open and close the covering. Generally, the motorized window covering assembly 100 can be any type of covering that is enabled to extend and retract and/or open and close as described herein.

[0039] [0018] Turning to FIG. 2, interior components of the example motorized window covering assembly 100 is shown. For ease of viewing, the casing 109 has been removed. The motorized window covering assembly 100 can include a motor 202 electrically connected to a power supply 204. The motor 202 can receive power from the power supply 204. The motor 202 can drive movement of the cover 102 (e.g., between the open position and the closed position). The power supply 204 can be or include battery(ies) (e.g., rechargeable batteries) and/or any other power source as required or desired. The motorized window covering assembly 100 can include one or more circuit boards 206 (e g., printed circuit boards). The circuit board(s) 206 can electronically communicate via a wired connection and/or a wireless connection 210. The circuit board(s) 206 can communicate with one another, with the motor 202, and/or with the power supply 204. For example, a first circuit board 206a can drive the motor 202 to move the cover 102. In some embodiments, a second circuit board 206b can be or include an encoder and/or a tracking device that can track the position of the motor 202. The position of the motor 202 can be correlated with the position of the cover of the motorized window covering assembly 100. The circuit boards 206 can include a communicate device such as a transmitter, a receiver, a transceiver, and/or other interface to facilitate exchange of data with remote devices (e.g., a remote and/or a user device 212).

[0040] [0019] In an example, one or more of the circuit boards (e.g., the circuit board 206a) can be contained in a housing 220 of the motorized window covering assembly 100. The housing 220 can have different shapes, including a cylindrical shape. One end of the housing 220 can be attached to or interface with an end cap 500 of the motorized window covering assembly 100. An opposite end of the housing can be attached to or interface with the power supply 204. Generally, the housing 220 can secure the circuit board(s) (e.g., the circuit board 206a in the illustration of FIG. 2) in place.

[0041] [0020] As used herein, an encoder may be any device that converts angular position, linear position, or motion of a shaft or axle to an analog or digital code. The encoder can be or include a Hall effect sensor that detects rotation of a magnet coupled to an output (e.g., a drive shaft) of the motor 202 and/or any type of device that detects rotations (e.g., a rotary encoder or a gravitational sensor). The encoder can be positioned on the first circuit board 206a, the second circuit board 206b, or any suitable position within the casing 109.

[0042] [0021] In various embodiments, the circuit boards 206 can be connected via a wired connection. For example, the circuit boards 206 can be connected via wired connection 208. The wired connection 208 can be or include a flat cable (e.g., flat wires) that are positioned between a component (e.g., the power supply 204) and the casing 109. The flat cable can allow there to be a smaller casing around the components. For example, the flat cable can allow a smaller casing than there would be if a traditional round cable was used. The wired connection 208 can include wires for transmitting a signal and/or wires for transmitting power (e.g., between the circuit boards 206). For example, signal wires can carry information about a position of the motor 202 sensed by the encoder, whereas the power wires can supply power to power on the encoder. In some embodiments, the wired connection 208 can include wires arranged to prevent or reduce interference of the signals. For example, the wires transmitting the signals can be separated from the wires transmitting power. [0043] [0022] In further embodiments, the components of the motorized window covering assembly 100 can be positioned along direction 214 (e.g., laterally spaced apart). The components can be positioned along direction 214 to maximize the size of one or more of the components that can fit within the casing 109. For example, the components can be positioned along direction 214 to maximize the size of the power supply 204 that can fit in the casing 109. However, the components can be positioned along direction 214 to minimize distances between various components.

[0044] [0023] In various embodiments, the charging port 600 can be positioned at a first end of the motorized window covering assembly 100. A first circuit board 206a can be positioned next to the charging port 600 and electrically coupled with the charging port 600. The first circuit board 206a can be electrically coupled with the power supply 204, the motor 202, and/or second circuit board 206b. The first circuit board 206a can include a motor controller that can control the motor 202. The power supply 204 can be positioned next to the first circuit board 206a. The power supply 204 can receive power from the charging port 600 (e.g., via the first circuit board 206a). The power supply 204 can be or include rechargeable batteries. The second circuit board 206b can be positioned on the opposite side of the power supply 204 from the first circuit board 206a. The second circuit board 206b can be or include an encoder that can track the position of the motor 202. In some embodiments, the first and second circuit boards 206a and 206b can be connected via a wired connection. The wired connection can be or include a flat wire that extends between the power supply 204 and the casing 109 (e.g., along direction 214). The motor 202 can be positioned between a second end of the motorized window covering assembly 100 and the second circuit board 206b. The motor 202 can be electrically coupled with the second circuit board 206b and/or the power supply 204.

[0045] [0024] Turning to FIG. 3, an example charger 114 is shown. The charger 114 can be or include a magnetic charger. The charger 1 14 can include a cable 302 extending between a connector 116 and a cassette 304. However, in some embodiments, the cable 302 can extend from the cassette 304 to a plug and/or an adapter for plugging the charger 114 into a power source. In various embodiments, the connector 116 can be or include a barrel connector that can connect with an extension cable that can include a plug and/or an adapter and can be plugged into a power source. [0046] [0025] The cassete 304 can include one or more charging faces 306. The charging faces 306 can engage with a portion of the motorized window covering assembly 100 (e.g., a charging face 306 can align and/or connect to the charging port of the motorized window covering assembly 100). The charging faces 306 can have the same or similar positioning of components. However, the charging faces 306 may have different positioning of components. The charging face 306 can include a charging surface 308 and one or more protrusions 310. The charging surface 308 can be or include a surface that can transmit power (e.g., electricity) from the charger 114 to the motorized window covering assembly 100. The charging surface 308 can be or include metal and/or another suitable material for transmitting power.

[0047] [0026] The protrusions 310 can align with one or more recesses 604 in the motorized window covering assembly 100. For example, a protrusion 310 can align with a corresponding recess to help with the alignment of the charging surface 308 with a corresponding charging surface of the motorized window covering assembly 100. The weight of the charger 114 can apply a shear force to the magnet connection between the magnetic connectors 406 and 602. The force between the magnetic connectors 406 and 602 may be lowest when the magnetic connectors 406 and 602 are in shear (e.g., as opposed to when the magnetic connectors 406 and 602 are in tension).

[0048] [0027] The protrusion 310 positioned in the recess 604 can carry some or all of the vertical load from the weight of the charger 114. For example, the charger 114 can place a horizontal and vertical load to the magnetic connection. The protrusion 310 positioned in the recess 604 can reduce some or all of the vertical load and the magnetic connectors 406 and 602 can carry the horizontal load (e.g., with a magnetic force). The protrusion 310 positioned in the recess 604 can additionally act as a pivot point for the cassette 304. The pivoting of the cassette reduces the shear force (e.g., caused by the weight of the charger 114) and places the lower portion of the magnetic connector 602 in compression and an upper portion of the magnetic connector 602 in tension.

[0049] [0028] In various embodiments, the cassette 304 can include a cover 312. The cover 312 can protect various components within the cassette 304. For example, the cover 312 can protect wires and/or magnets within the cassette 304. In some embodiments, the cover 312 can include markings can, for example, convey information to a user. For example, the cover 312 can be or include markings that indicate how the cassette 304 should be oriented to connect with the motorized window covering assembly 100.

[0050] [0029] In further embodiments, the cassette 304 can include extensions 316. The extensions 316 can be used, for example, to position the cassette 304 in the holder 118. The extensions 316 can aid in orienting the cassette 304 in the holder 118 and/or hold the cassette 304 in position in the holder 118. For example, the extensions 316 can align with slots and/or grooves in the holder 118.

[0051] [0030] FIGS. 4 and 5 show example cassettes 304 for use with the charger 114. For ease of viewing of the interior components of the cassettes 304, the cassettes 304 are shown with one side of the cover 312 removed. As shown in FIG. 4, the charging surfaces 308 can be connected together (e.g., electrically connected) via wires 402. For example, the positive charging surfaces 308a can be connected together via wires 402a and the negative charging surfaces 308b can be connected together via wires 402b. However, the positive charging surfaces 308a may each be directly connected to a positive wire 402 and the negative charging surfaces 308b may each be directly connected to a negative wire 402.

[0052] [0031] As shown in FIG. 5, the charging surfaces 308 can additionally or alternatively be connected together (e g., electrically connected) via a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) 502. The PCBA 502 can include a plurality of components 504 for charging the motorized window covering assembly 100 (e.g., the power supply 204) and a printed circuit board (PCB) on which the components are mounted. For example, the PCBA 502 can include components 504 and/or circuitry that can reduce or prevent sparking from occurring when the cassette is engaged with the motorized window covering assembly 100. The components 504 can include transistors, resistors, capacitors, switches, microprocessors, systems on chip (SoC’s), processors, memories, and/or other electrical or electronic components. In further embodiments, the PCBA 502 can additionally or alternatively include an indicator LED 506. The indicator LED 506 can indicate the charging state of the power supply 204. For example, the indicator LED 506 can indicate a charged state and/or a charging state.

[0053] [0032] The charging surfaces 308 can be part of a casing 404 that surrounds magnetic connector 406. The casing 404 can be or include an electrically conductive material (e.g., metal). The casing 404 can partially or fully surround the magnetic connector 406. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the casing 404 can surround the magnetic connector 406 and connect with wires 402 via a crimp 408. As shown in FIG. 5, the casing 404 can partially surround the magnetic connector 406 and connect with the PCBA 502. The casing 404 can be connected to the wires 402 and/or the PCBA 502 to energize the casing 404. For example, the casing 404 can be energized to transmit electricity from the cassette 304 to the motorized window covering assembly 100 (e.g., via the charging surfaces 308).

[0054] [0033] As shown in FIG. 5, the PCBA 502 can include input pins which are electrically connected to wires coming into the cassette 304. The PCBA 502 can additionally or alternatively include pins connected to the casing 404. An electrical signal can be conducted from the wires coming into the cassette 304 to the casing 404 via the PCBA 502. The electrical signal can, for example, be used to charge the power supply 204. The electrical signal can be conducted through one or more of the components 504 mounted to the PCBA 502. The components 504 can control the electrical signal conducted to the casings 404 and/or can detect the electrical signal to indicate, via the indicator LED 506, the charging state.

[0055] [0034] The magnetic connector 406 can be or include magnets (e.g., dipole magnets with a north pole and a south pole). The magnetic connector 406 can have a magnetic force (e.g., an attraction to a magnetic connector positioned in the motorized window covering assembly 100) that is between 1 lb and 10 lbs. Each of the charging faces 306 can have a magnetic connector 406 that includes a first magnet with a north pole oriented toward the charging surface 308 and a second magnet with a south pole oriented toward the charging surface 308 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4). The magnetic connector 406 can be oriented to attract the magnetic connector positioned in the motorized window covering assembly 100. For example, the magnetic connector 406 can include a magnet with a north pole oriented to be attracted to the south pole of a magnet of the magnetic connector in the motorized window covering assembly 100 and a magnet with a south pole of a magnet that can be attracted to the north pole of a magnet of the magnetic connector positioned in the motorized window covering assembly 100.

[0056] [0035] In various embodiments, the charging surface 308 can be curved. The curved charging surface 308 can correspond to a curved charging port 600 of the motorized window covering assembly 100. The magnetic connector 406 can be positioned around the curved charging surface 308 such that the magnets of the magnetic connector 406 are angled (e.g., angularly arranged). The angled magnetic connector 406 can allow the magnetic connector 406 to contact angled magnets in the charging port. Additionally or alternatively, the angular orientation of the magnetic connector 406 can reduce the shear force applied to the magnetic connector 406 when the magnetic connector 406 is engaged with the charging port (e.g., a first magnet of the magnetic connector 406 can be in tension and a second magnet of the magnetic connector 406 can be in compression). Reducing the shear force applied to the magnetic connector 406 can allow the magnetic connector 406 to have a greater magnetic force (e.g., hold more weight).

[0057] [0036] In further embodiments, the magnetic connectors 406 can be angled relative to a plane (e.g., plane 410 or plane 412). For example, the magnetic connectors 406 can be angled between 5 and 45 degrees relative to the plane. The angled magnetic connector 406 can reduce the shear force between the magnetic connectors 406 and 602.

[0058] [0037] Turning to FIGS. 6 through 8, example charging ports 600 are shown. The charging port 600 can include a charging face 606. The charging face 606 can receive the charging face 306 of the charger 114. The charging face 606 can be or include a magnetic connector 602 and a recess 604. The magnetic connector 602 can be or include magnets (e.g. dipole magnets). The magnetic connector 602 can attract and/or have a magnetic connection with the magnetic connector 406. The recess 606 can receive the protrusion 310. For example, when the charging faces 306 and 606 are engaged, the protrusion 310 can be positioned in the recess 604.

[0059] [0038] In various embodiments, the magnetic connector 602 can include a cover surrounding magnets. As shown in FIG. 7, the cover can completely surround the magnets. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 8, the cover can partially surround the magnets. For example, the cover as shown in FIG. 8, leaves a portion of the magnets exposed.

[0060] [0039] The magnetic connectors 602 can be angled relative to a plane (e.g., axis 610). The magnetic connectors 602 can be angled between 5 degrees and 45 degrees relative to the horizontal axis 610. The magnetic connectors 602 can be angled to receive the angled magnetic connectors 406.

[0061] [0040] In some embodiments, the magnetic connectors 602 can be offset from the charging face 606. For example, the charging face 606 can include recesses and/or slots that can receive the magnetic connectors 406. The magnetic connectors 602 offset from the charging face 606 can aid in the alignment of the magnetic connectors 406 and 602.

[0062] [0041] The charging port 600 can be positioned at one end of the motorized window covering assembly 100. However, the charging port 600 may be positioned at any position on the motorized window covering assembly 100. The charging port 600 can be positioned at several orientations. For example, the charging port 600 can be oriented in a vertical position (e.g., substantially along a vertical axis 608) or can be oriented in a horizontal position (e.g., substantially along a horizontal axis 610).

[0063] [0042] In various embodiments, the magnetic connector 602 can be radially oriented. For example, the magnetic connector 602 can include components positioned at different radial positions (e.g., relative to a horizontal axis 610).

[0064] [0043] Further, the magnetic connector 602 can be implemented using different shapes. In the illustration of FIG. 6, a rectangular prism is shown as an example of such shapes. Other shapes are possible, such as a cuboid magnetic connector or a cylindrical magnetic connector.

[0065] [0044] As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the charging port 600 can include a manual override 702. The manual override 702 can allow the motorized window covering assembly 100 to move when the power supply 204 has low or no power. For example, the manual override 702 can be depressed to allow for movement of the shade panel (e.g., to allow the shade panel to be extended and retracted). As shown in FIG. 7, the manual override 702 can extend beyond a casing 704. Additionally or alternatively, as shown in FIG. 8, the manual override 702 can be flush with or recessed in the casing 704.

[0066] [0045] Turning to FIGS. 9 and 10, side views of the motorized window covering assembly 100 with the charger 114 attached. The casing has been removed from the motorized window covering assembly 100 and the charger 114 for ease of viewing. As shown in FIG. 9, the charger 114 is connected to the motorized window covering assembly 100 in a right angle configuration and as shown in FIG. 10, the charger 114 is connected to the motorized window covering assembly 100 in a straight line configuration. The charger 114 can be connected to the motorized window covering assembly 100 to transfer power and/or data to and/or from the window covering assembly 100. For example, the charger 114 can be connected to the motorized window covering assembly 100 to transfer power to the power supply 204 of the motorized window covering assembly 100.

[0067] [0046] The motorized window covering assembly 100 can include a magnetic connector 602. The magnetic connector 602 can include one or more magnets (e.g., dipole magnets). The magnetic connector 602 can be used to connect the charger 114 to the motorized window covering assembly 100 (e.g., via a magnet connection). For example, the charger 114 can be attached to the motorized window covering assembly with a magnetic connection between the magnetic connector 406 in the cassette 304 and the magnetic connector 602 in the charging port of the motorized window covering assembly 100. The magnetic connectors 406 and 602 can have a force that can hold the weight of the charger 114 and/or cable that connects to the connector 116 (e.g., between 1 lb and 10 lbs). The holding force can be strong enough to hold the charger 114 and any associated cables and still be low enough that a user can easily disconnect the charger 114 from the motorized window covering assembly 100. For example, the holding force can hold the charger 114 while the charger 114 is transferring power to the motorized window covering assembly 100 and be overcome by a user pulling on the cable to remove the charger 114 (e.g., after the charging has finished).

[0068] [0047] The magnet connector 602 of the charging port can contact some or all of the charging surface 308 of the cassette 304. Power (e.g., electricity) can be conducted from the charging surface 308 through the magnetic connector 602 to the power supply 204 (e.g., through wires). In some embodiments, the charging surface 308 may be larger than the surface of the magnetic connector 602. The larger charging surface 308 can allow the transfer of power from the charger 114 to the motorized window covering assembly 100 without having precision alignment between the charging surface 308 and the magnetic connector 602. For example, the larger charging surface 308 can be slightly misaligned with the magnetic connector 602 while still being able to transfer power to the motorized window covering assembly 100.

[0069] [0048] In various embodiments, the protrusion 310 can be positioned in a recess of the charging port when the charger 114 is attached to the motorized window covering assembly 100. The protrusion 310 positioned in the recess can reduce some of the force applied to the charger 114 (e.g., from a cable connected to the connector 116). For example, the protrusion 310 can be positioned in the recess to reduce the vertical force component from the charger 1 14.

[0070] [0049] Turning to FIG. 11, a side view of the motorized window covering assembly 100 positioned in a cover 1102 is shown. The cover 1102 can be positioned to at least partially surround the motorized window covering assembly 100. The cover 1102 can be or include plastic, metal, and/or fabric.

[0071] [0050] An extension 1104 can be used to connect the charger 114 and the motorized window covering assembly 100. The extension 1104 can extend between the charging port 600 and the cover 1102. For example, a first connector 1106 can connect with the charging port 600 and a second connector 1106 can be positioned on an exterior surface of the cover 1102. The charger 114 can engage with the extension 1104 (e.g., with the second connector 1106). The extension 1104 can allow the charger 114 to be used to charger the power supply 204 positioned in the motorized window covering assembly 100 without needing to attach the charger directly to the motorized window covering assembly 100. For example, the charger 114 can provide power to the power supply 204 via the extension 1104 without needing to position the charger 114 between the cover 1102 and the motorized window covering assembly 100.

[0072] [0051] Turning to FIGS. 12 and 13, example holders 118 are shown. The holders 118 can include an opening 1202 and one or more grooves 1204 for receiving a portion of the cassette 304. For example, the opening 1202 can receive a stem of the cassette 304. The opening 1202 can be sized and shaped to hold the cassette 304 securely when the cassette 304 is being moved to engage with the motorized window covering assembly 100. However, the opening 1202 can be large enough that the cassette 304 can be disengaged from the holder 118 without disengaging the cassette 304 from the motorized window covering assembly 100. For example, the force needed to remove the cassette 304 from the holder 118 can be less than the force needed to disengage the cassette from the motorized window covering assembly 100. As shown in FIG. 12, the holder 118 can receive a cassette 304 with multiple extensions 316 (e.g., extensions offset by 90 degrees) that fit in grooves 1204. As shown in FIG. 13, the holder 118 can receive a cassette 304 with multiple extensions 316 (e.g., extensions offset by 180 degrees) with one extension 316 fitting in a groove 1204 and another extension 316 fitting in a notch 1302 in the opening 1202.

[0073] [0052] The grooves 1204 can be positioned in an asymmetric pattern. The asymmetric pattern can help orient the cassette 304 for engagement with the motorized window covering assembly 100. For example, the grooves 1204 can be formed such that the cassette 304 can only be positioned in the holder 1 18 in one orientation (e g., the extensions 316 can only be positioned in the grooves 1204 when the cassette 304 is oriented correctly). Additionally or alternatively, the grooves 1204 can prevent the cassette 304 from rotating in the holder 118. For example, when the extensions 316 are positioned in the grooves 1204, the cassette 304 may be prevented from rotating.

[0074] [0053] In various embodiments, as shown in FIG. 13, the holder 118 can include a recess 1302 that can engage with and support a portion of the cassette 304. For example, the cassette 304 can be positioned in the recess 1302 such that the cover 312 of the cassette 304 is engaged with the recess 1302. The recess 1302 can support the cassette 304 to aid in engaging the cassette 304 with the charging port 600. For example, the recess 1302 can help correctly orient the cassette 304 for engagement with the charging port 600.

[0075] [0054] Turning to FIGS. 14-15, a perspective view of the motorized window covering assembly 100 that includes a magnet housing 1402 is illustrated. The motorized window covering assembly can be positioned within the cover 1102 such that the cover 1102 at least partially surrounds the motorized window covering assembly 100.

[0076] [0055] The magnet housing 1402 can be used to electrically couple the charger 114, for example via the cassette 304, to the motorized window covering assembly 100 (e.g., to the power supply 204). The magnet housing 1402 can be positioned adjacent to or otherwise mechanically affixed to an end of the motorized window covering assembly 100 (e.g., by being affixed to the housing 220 near the end cap 500). As illustrated, the magnet housing 1402 is roughly a C-shaped or horseshoe-shaped component, but the magnet housing 1402 can be or otherwise include other suitable shaped such as a U-shape, a ring shape or a rectangular shape (e.g.., that covers the full exterior of the motorized window covering assembly 100), etc. The used shape can amount to an attachment mechanism to affix the magnet housing 1402 to the end of the motorized window covering assembly 100. Further, the magnet housing 1402 can include or otherwise be formed using any suitable material such as polymer, plastic, or other suitable material. The used material can provide additional secure mechanisms (e.g., by providing surface friction that prevents slippage of the magnet housing 1402 off the housing 202). A set of protrusions 106 (FIG. 14 illustrates a single protrusion, although a larger number is possible) can be included in the magnet housing 1402 and a corresponding set of recesses or holes (not shown) can be included in the housing 202 to provide an additional secure mechanism. Additionally or alternatively, such protrusions can be included in the housing 202 and such recesses or holes can be included in the magnet housing 1402.

[0077] [0056] The magnet housing 1402 can include or otherwise be formed using any suitable material such as polymer, plastic, or other suitable non-conductive material The magnet housing 1502 can be formed using an extrusion or molding process to have two pieces or halves) that may be mirrors of each other. FIG. 15 shows one of these pieces (numbered using element 1510) and the two pieces can be secured together using different mechanisms. For instance, the piece 1510 can include threaded inserts (or merely inserts) to receive screws (or merely protrusions or shafts) inserted from the other piece, although other secure mechanisms are possible (e.g., gluing, clamping, and the like). Further, a single piece magnet housing may be possible, whereby electrical coupling components (e.g., magnets, wires, etc.) can be installed in an interior of such housing during the manufacturing thereof.

[0078] [0057] As further shown in FIG. 15, the magnet housing 1402 can include a first set of magnets 1502a-b that are part of a first magnetic connector, a second set of magnets 1504a- b that are part of a second magnetic connector, and a set of wires 1506a-b to electrically couple the magnet connectors 406 in the cassette 304 to the magnet connectors 602 in the charging port 600. In this case, the magnet housing 1402 (e.g., one of or both pieces 1510) can include recesses, cavities, routes and the like to contain the magnets 1502a-b and 1504.

[0079] [0058] Additionally or alternatively, the magnet housing 1402 (e.g., one of or both pieces 1510) may not include electrical wires. Instead, the magnet housing 1402 may be made of or include at least a subset of electrically conductive materials such as a metallic material (e.g., metal plating, metal traces, or metal coating) to electrically couple the magnet connectors 406 in the cassette 304 to the magnet connectors 602 in the charging port 600 through the first magnetic connector and the second magnetic connector.

[0080] [0059] The first set of magnets 1502a-b is illustrated as including two magnets, but other suitable numbers of magnets is possible. The first set of magnets 1502a-b can include magnets shaped like cubes or other suitable rectangular prisms. Other suitable shapes, such as cylinders and the like, can be used for the first set of magnets 1502a-b. Further, the first magnetic connector that includes the set of magnets 1502a-b can further includes an electrically conductive material that surrounds or encases each of the magnets 1502a-b to define electrically conductive casings 1520, each similar to the casing 406. Ends of the casings 1520 can be attached to the set of wires 1506a-b. The first magnetic connector can be positioned adjacent to or otherwise abutting a corresponding magnetic connector 602 of the charging port 600. The surface of one of the magnets (e.g., 1502a) that interfaces with a magnet in the housing 220 can provide a north pole magnetic connection (assuming that the corresponding surface of this magnet in the housing 220 provides a south pole magnetic connection). Conversely, the surface of the other magnet (e.g., 1502b) that interfaces with another magnet in the housing 220 can provide a south pole magnetic connection (assuming that the corresponding surface of this magnet in the housing 220 provides a north pole magnetic connection). When the magnets 1502a-b connect magnetically to corresponding magnets in the housing 220, the magnetic force can provide yet another secure mechanism to affix the magnet housing 1402 to the housing 220 in the motorized window covering assembly 100. While the magnetic connection is established, the corresponding electrically conductive cases that surround the magnets can become in contact, thereby providing the desired electrical coupling. Like the or one or protrusions 310 of the cassette 304, the magnet housing 1402 can include one or more protrusions 1508 to be inserted in one or more recesses or holes of the housing 220. The protrusion-recess configuration can also provide a secure mechanism to affix the magnet housing 1402 to the housing 202. In the illustration of FIG. 15, the protrusion 1508 starts from a location between the two magnets 1502a-b and extends outwardly, and has a triangular-like shape, although other configurations (e.g., from where and how it extends and/or the shape) are possible.

[0081] [0060] The second set of magnets 1504a-b is illustrated as including two magnets, but other suitable numbers of magnets is possible. The second set of magnets 1504a-b can include magnets shaped like cylinders or other suitable shapes such as cubes, rectangular prisms, and the like. Further, the second magnetic connector that includes the set of magnets 1504a-b can further includes an electrically conductive material that surrounds or encases each of the magnets 1504a- b to define an electrically conductive casings, each similar to the casing 406. Ends of the casings here can also be attached to the set of wires 1506a-b, such that the second magnetic connector is electrically coupled to the first magnetic connector. The second magnetic connector can be positioned adjacent to or otherwise abutting a corresponding magnetic connector 406 of the cassette 304. For example, in response to positioning the cassette 304 adjacent to the magnet housing 1402, the magnet 1504a can become adjacent or abutting a first magnetic connector 406, and the magnet 1504b can become adjacent or abutting a second magnetic connector 406. The surface of one of the magnets (e.g., 1504a) that interfaces with a magnet in the cassette 304 can provide a north pole magnetic connection (assuming that the corresponding surface of this magnet in the cassette 304 provides a south pole magnetic connection). Conversely, the surface of the other magnet (e.g., 1504b) that interfaces with another magnet in the cassette 304 can provide a south pole magnetic connection (assuming that the corresponding surface of this magnet in the cassette 304 provides a north pole magnetic connection). When the magnets 1504a-b connect magnetically to corresponding magnets in the casing 304, the magnetic force can provide a secure mechanism to affix the magnet housing 1402 to the cassette 304 in the motorized window covering assembly 100. While the magnetic connection is established, the corresponding electrically conductive cases that surround the magnets can become in contact, thereby providing the desired electrical coupling. Like the one or more recesses 604 shown in FIG. 6, the magnet housing 1402 can include one or more recesses 1530 to receive one or more protrusions 310 of the cassette 304. The protrusionrecess configuration can also provide a secure mechanism to attach the cassette 304 to the magnet housing 1402. In the illustration of FIG. 15, the recess 1530 starts from a location between the two magnets 1504a-b and extends inwardly (e.g., into the second magnetic connector), and has a triangular-like shape, although other configurations (e.g., from where and how it extends and/or the shape) are possible.

[0082] [0061] The set of wires 1506a-b can include a first wire 1506a and a second wire 1506b. The set of wires 1506a-b can include any other suitable number, such as less than two or more than two, wires that may correspond to a number of magnets included in the first set of magnets 1502a-b or the second set of magnets 1504a-b. Each wire may connect two magnets. For example, the first wire 1506a may connect the magnet 1502a to the magnet 1504a, and the second wire 1506b may connect the magnet 1502b to the magnet 1504b. Other suitable connection arrangements are possible. In some embodiments, the set of wires 1506a-b may electrically connect the charger 114 and the motorized window covering assembly 100.

[0083] [0062] Although not illustrated in FIG. 15, the magnet housing 1402 can include additional components configured as being at least parts of the electrical coupling. For instance, the magnet housing 1402 can contain a PCBA and an LED indicator, similar to the PCBA 502 and LED indicator 506 of FIG. 5. Here, the PCBA can be configured to manage (e.g., control) the charging of the power supply 204 (e.g., control the amount of charging), whereas the LED indicator can indicate the status of the charging. If an LED indicator is used, it may be positioned in the magnet housing 1402 such that to be visible to a user (e.g., by being on a user facing surface).

[0084] [0063] Turning to FIG. 16, a block diagram of an example controller 1604 controller for use with the motorized window covering assembly 100 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1) is shown. In the example described below, the controller 1604 is described in connection with the motor 202 (e.g., as shown in FIG 2); however, it is understood that the controller 1604 may likewise be used to control any other component of the motorized window covering assembly 100 as required or desired. In various embodiments, the controller 1604 can be or include the circuit boards 206 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 2). [0085] [0064] The controller 1604 can include a motor controller 1606 that controls one or more motors 202 of the window covering assembly 100 based on one or more commands. For example, the motor controller 1606 can control the direction of rotation of an output shaft of the motors 202, the speed of the output shaft, and/or other operations of the motor so as to extend and retract and open and close the shade panel.

[0086] [0065] The controller 1604 can also include a position sensor interface 1610 that can receive signals from one or more position sensors 1618. The position sensors 1618 can include, for example, a magnetic encoder, a rotary encoder, a gravitational sensor, etc. The position sensors 1618 can be used to count pulses or rotations of the motor 202, to track the position of a rotating element (e.g., the output shaft, the roller assembly, etc.) while movement of the covering is being driven (e.g., by a rotating member or any other driving member). The position sensor interface 1610 can process the signals from the position sensors 1618 and a position determiner 1612 determines a position of the shade panel based on the processed signal(s) from the position sensor interface 1610.

[0087] [0066] An action determiner 1614 can used to determine what action (if any) is to be performed by the motor 202 based on input information from the communication device 1602 (e.g., receiving operational instructions from a remote device via a gateway) and/or the position determiner 1612. In examples, the communication device is operable to communicate with remote devices via a gateway, wherein the connection with the gateway can use any number of different networks or protocols, such as over Wi-Fi, BLUETOOTH, BLUETOOTH Low Energy, ZIGBEE, etc. For example, if an operational signal is received by the communication device 1602 to open the covering, the action determiner 1614 sends a signal to the motor controller 1606 to activate the motor 202 in an open direction. Similarly, if an operational signal is received by the communication device 1602 to close the covering, the action determiner 1614 sends a signal to the motor controller 1606 to activate the motor 202 in a closed direction. In another example, if an operational signal is received by the communication device 1602 to extend the covering, the action determiner 1614 sends a signal to the motor controller 1606 to activate the motor 202 in an extended direction. Similarly, if an operational signal is received by the communication device 1602 to retract the covering, the action determiner 1614 sends a signal to the motor controller 1606 to activate the motor 202 in a retraction direction. Based on the received operational control signal, the action determiner 1614 and the position determiner 1612 can selectively use the motor controller 1606 to command the motor 202 in one direction or another so that the covering is moved as required or desired.

[0088] [0067] A data store 1616 (e.g., memory) of the controller 1604 can store data as required or desired. For example, the data store 1616 can include information that is emitted in a broadcast signal from the covering, such as, covering informational data (e.g., a covering identifier), a structure identifier (e.g., an edifice identification number or a home ID), and/or power transmission data.

[0089] [0068] Based on the disclosure and teachings provided herein, a person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate other ways and/or methods to implement the various embodiments. The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. It will, however, be evident that various modifications and changes may be made thereunto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the disclosure as set forth in the claims.

[0090] [0069] Other variations are within the spirit of the present disclosure. Thus, while the disclosed techniques are susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, certain illustrated embodiments thereof are shown in the drawings and have been described above in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the disclosure to the specific form or forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure, as defined in the appended claims.

[0091] [0070] The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in the context of describing the disclosed embodiments (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. The term “connected” is to be construed as partly or wholly contained within, attached to, or joined together, even if there is something intervening. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate embodiments of the disclosure and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the disclosure unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the disclosure.

[0092] [0071] Disjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, or Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is intended to be understood within the context as used in general to present that an item, term, etc., may be either X, Y, or Z, or any combination thereof (e.g., X, Y, and/or Z). Thus, such disjunctive language is not generally intended to, and should not, imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, or at least one of Z to each be present.

[0093] [0072] Various embodiments of this disclosure are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the disclosure. Variations of those embodiments may become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate and the inventors intend for the disclosure to be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this disclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the disclosure unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.