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US 6,116,320 AGranted
Automatic window shade system
AssigneeBarker Holding Company, LLC
InventorJames E. Peterson
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
An automatic window shade system is disclosed which can react to end points and obstructions through a torque sensing arrangement. This torque sensing can be accomplished through use of an electromagnetic interference device so that a change in torque is immediately detected and a modulation in operation of the shade can be effected. Rotating pitched disks elastically connected to each other can be used to act as the torque sensor for this an other applications. Multiple elastic elements can permit multiple location sensing as well as non-zero torque sensing and reaction.
Claims47
An automatic window shade, comprising:
- a. a window shade configured to have window shade movement;
- b. a drive system which causes said window shade movement through application of a torque;
- c. an electromagnetic alteration element which responds to a change in said torque as said torque is applied through said drive system;
- d. an electromagnetic source which emits electromagnetic radiation and which is configured so that said electromagnetic radiation passes in the vicinity of said electromagnetic alteration element wherein said electromagnetic alteration element causes an alteration of said electromagnetic radiation;
- e. an electromagnetic sensor responsive to said electromagnetic radiation wherein said electromagnetic sensor detects said alteration of said electromagnetic radiation;
- and
- f. a drive modulator responsive to said electromagnetic sensor and to which said drive system is responsive.
4 more elements
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.