IL280916B2 - A roller blind with inclined steps and a unit for synchronizing the inclination - Google Patents

Description

280916/2 ROLLER SHUTTER WITH TILTING SLATS AND SYNCHRONIZED TILTING UNIT.

TECHNICAL FIELD id="p-1" id="p-1" id="p-1" id="p-1" id="p-1" id="p-1" id="p-1" id="p-1" id="p-1" id="p-1" id="p-1" id="p-1"

[0001] The present invention relates to rolled shutters, more specifically to roller shutters that are capable of tilting their slats between open position (horizontal) and closed position (vertical). In order to roll the roller shutter up or down, the slats are set in a vertical position (i.e., closed) and tilting is possible only when the roller shutters is completely rolled down. This roller shutter can be installed in openings, even large ones, in domestic, commercial or industrial premises.

BACKGROUND id="p-2" id="p-2" id="p-2" id="p-2" id="p-2" id="p-2" id="p-2" id="p-2" id="p-2" id="p-2" id="p-2" id="p-2"

[0002] Shutters with the ability of tilting their slats are common. In most roller shutters with tilting slats, after the curtain is rolled completely down, a special mechanism can be used to tilt all the slats of the curtain at once from a closed position to an open position. Before the shutter is rolled up, the same mechanism is used to tilt the slats back to a closed position, and then the roller shutters can be rolled up. In some of these shutters an additional source of power (e.g. an additional motor, in addition to the motor that rolls the roller shutter up and down) is used for tilting the slats. This makes the shutter complicated and expensive. In other known shutters - "single motor shutters" - the power of the main motor, which rotates the shutter axis, is used for this both purposes. id="p-3" id="p-3" id="p-3" id="p-3" id="p-3" id="p-3" id="p-3" id="p-3" id="p-3" id="p-3" id="p-3" id="p-3"

[0003] One known mechanism of tilting the slats is described in PCT application WO2019/111245. The disclosed shutter is a roller shutter with tilting slats, comprised of: (a) a shutter curtain made of a number of tilt-able slats with axes in both edges, wherein each of the slats is pivotally installed between two elements of two leading chains and wherein at least one of the axes passes through the element of the leading chain and is shaped as a cranked axis; (b) a main axis with rotating means, on which the shutter is folded and from which the shutter is unfolded; 1 280916/2 (c) a fixed frame fitted with sliding guides for leading the leading chains with the installed slats down while the curtain is unfolded and up while the curtain is folded; (d) at least one semi-rigid band, located aside the leading chain to which each of the cranked axes is pivotally connected via pivot units, making it possible to tilt all the slats at once - by moving the band up or down; (e) a tilting mechanism, the mechanism is comprised of: (i) a leveraging slat that is an angular and shorter slat with rotation unlimited by the sliding guides, wherein Its lower edge is pivotally joined to the top edge of the upper curtain's slat with a small angle rotation capability; (ii) a tilting slat that is a shorter slat with rotation unlimited by the sliding guides, wherein its lower edge pivotally joined to the upper side of the leveraging slat; and (iii) a non-tilt-able slat that is a long slat with its rotation limited by the sliding guides, wherein its lower edge is pivotally joined to the upper edge of the tilting slat; and when a pressure is applied on the non-tilt-able slat- while the curtain is blocked and unable to be lowered - the non-tilt-able slat rotates the tilting slat in one direction and the tilting slat rotates the leveraging slat in the same direction and due to the rotation limitation of its lower edge, it tilts the upper curtain's slat and due to the connection of all the slats to the semi-rigid band the curtain's slats are tilted together to an open position, and vice versa.

BRIEF SUMMARY id="p-4" id="p-4" id="p-4" id="p-4" id="p-4" id="p-4" id="p-4" id="p-4" id="p-4" id="p-4" id="p-4" id="p-4"

[0004] It is therefore provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the disclosed subject matter a tilting actuation mechanism for a roller shutter with a curtain having a plurality of tilting slats, the tilting actuation mechanism comprising: at least one crankshaft-like tilting unit (33a) comprising: a cranked axis (12) attached to, and rotating with, a corresponding slat (1, 1b) of the tilting slats, said cranked axis is configured to rotate within a hole in the chain link (114) in a link (102) of a chain (2) used for rolling up and rolling down the curtain (50); a tilting wing (13) connected to said cranked axis (12); and 2 280916/2 a tilting arm (3) connected to said cranked axis (12) so that it is parallel and offset relative to said cranked axis (12), said tilting arm is configured to rotate within a bore (121) in a slat synchronization device (21c); and at least one tilting actuation unit (16) comprising: a tilting actuation prong (17) capable of rotating about an axis (17a); and a prong's spring (18) applying force to keep the prong at approximately right angle to the rolling direction of the curtain, such that a prong stop 18a rests against the tilting actuation unit (16), wherein: as the curtain rolls down in a slat closed state, said tilting wing (13) can push the actuation prong (17), overcoming the force of said prong's spring (18), and while the curtain rolls up in a slat closed state, while said tilting wing (13) is just below the prong, said tilting wing (13) engages the prong such that the prong causes said tilting wing to rotate, thus rotating the entire crankshaft-like tilting unit (33a), and causing said slat synchronization device (21) to be pushed down. id="p-5" id="p-5" id="p-5" id="p-5" id="p-5" id="p-5" id="p-5" id="p-5" id="p-5" id="p-5" id="p-5" id="p-5"

[0005] It is further provided in accordance with another preferred embodiment, that as the curtain continues to roll up, said tilting wing (13) can overpass and disengage from the prong, causing a rotation of said tilting wing and the entire crankshaft-like tilting unit (33a) back to the slat closed state, allowing said slat synchronization device (21) to move up. id="p-6" id="p-6" id="p-6" id="p-6" id="p-6" id="p-6" id="p-6" id="p-6" id="p-6" id="p-6" id="p-6" id="p-6"

[0006] It is also provided in accordance with yet another preferred embodiment of the present subject matter, a roller shutter comprising: a shutter curtain (50) made of a plurality of tilting slats (1, 1a, 1b), each terminating with an end-cover for a tilting slat (4) in each end; a first frame and a second frame (6), one at each side of the roller shutter, in which said shutter curtain rolls up and down; a first chain and a second chains (2), each located within the corresponding frame, each comprises a plurality of links (102), for rolling said shutter curtain up or down, wherein each tilting slat (1, 1a, 1b) is pivotally connected at each end to a corresponding link in said first chain and the second chains; a plurality of crankshaft-like tilting units (33), each unit comprising: 3 280916/2 a cranked axis (12) attached to and rotating with a corresponding end-cover for the tilting slat (4), said cranked axis is configured to rotate within a hole (114) in a corresponding link (102); and a tilting arm (3) connected to said cranked axis (12), so that it is parallel and offset relative to said cranked axis (12), wherein said tilting arm is configured to rotate within a bore (121) in a slat synchronization device (21); at least one slat tilting synchronizer (5A, 5b. 5c) connected to a plurality of the slat synchronization devices (21, 21c) of all said tilting slats (1, 1a, 1b), causing synchronized tilting of said tilting slats; and at least one crankshaft-like tilting unit (33a), connected to at least a first end of the at least one tilting slat, the crankshaft-like tilting unit (33a) comprising: a cranked axis (12) attached to and rotating with said at least one tilting slat, said cranked axis (12) is configured to rotate within a hole in a link of a chain used for rolling up and rolling down the shutter curtain; a tilting wing (13) connected to said cranked axis (12); and a tilting arm (3) connected to said cranked axis (12) so that it is parallel and offset relative to said cranked axis (12), wherein said tilting arm is configured to rotate within a bore (121) in a slat synchronization device (21c); and at least one tilting actuation unit (16) connected to said first frame comprising: a tilting actuation prong (17) capable of rotating about an axis (17a) relative to the prong's base (20); and a prong's spring (18) applying force to keep the prong at approximately right angle to the rolling direction of the shutter curtain such that prong stop 18a rests against a tilting actuation unit (16), wherein as the curtain rolls down, in a slat closed state, said tilting wing (13) can push said actuation prong (17), overcoming the force of said prong's spring (18), and while the curtain rolls up in a slat closed state, while said tilting wing (13) is just below the prong, said tilting wing (13) engages the prong such that the prong causes a rotating of said tilting wing, thus rotating the entire crankshaft-like tilting unit (33a), causing said slat 4 280916/2 synchronization device (21c) to be pushed down, pulling said synchronizer (5A, 5b. 5c), causing synchronized opening of all tilting slats (1, 1b). id="p-7" id="p-7" id="p-7" id="p-7" id="p-7" id="p-7" id="p-7" id="p-7" id="p-7" id="p-7" id="p-7" id="p-7"

[0007] It is further provided in accordance with another preferred embodiment, that as the shutter curtain continues to roll up, said tilting wing (13) can overpass and disengage from the prong, causing a rotating of said tilting wing and the entire crankshaft-like tilting unit (33a) back to the slat closed state, allowing said slat synchronization device (21) to move up, thus moving up said synchronizer (6a, 5b. 5c) causing synchronized tilting of all said tilting slats to said closed state. id="p-8" id="p-8" id="p-8" id="p-8" id="p-8" id="p-8" id="p-8" id="p-8" id="p-8" id="p-8" id="p-8" id="p-8"

[0008] It is further provided in accordance with another preferred embodiment, wherein said synchronizer is a cable (5b) and said at least one crankshaft-like tilting unit (33a) is connected to the lower tilting slat (1b), and wherein the roller shutter further comprising a cable spring (14) connected between said cable and a link (102a) of said first chain (2), for keeping said cable tight. id="p-9" id="p-9" id="p-9" id="p-9" id="p-9" id="p-9" id="p-9" id="p-9" id="p-9" id="p-9" id="p-9" id="p-9"

[0009] It is further provided in accordance with another preferred embodiment, wherein said synchronizer is a semi-rigid band (5c). id="p-10" id="p-10" id="p-10" id="p-10" id="p-10" id="p-10" id="p-10" id="p-10" id="p-10" id="p-10" id="p-10" id="p-10"

[0010] It is further provided in accordance with another preferred embodiment, wherein said synchronizer is a synchronization chain (5A) made of rigid links (80), each link having two link holes (82), and held together by fitting an end (85) of a tilting arm (3) through said link hole (82) of two adjacent rigid links. id="p-11" id="p-11" id="p-11" id="p-11" id="p-11" id="p-11" id="p-11" id="p-11" id="p-11" id="p-11" id="p-11" id="p-11"

[0011] It is further provided in accordance with another preferred embodiment, wherein said first frame (6) has an opening (66) allowing said wing (13) of said crankshaft-like tilting unit (33a) to tilt and extend outside frame (6) when the slats are in fully or partially open state. id="p-12" id="p-12" id="p-12" id="p-12" id="p-12" id="p-12" id="p-12" id="p-12" id="p-12" id="p-12" id="p-12" id="p-12"

[0012] It is further provided in accordance with another preferred embodiment, wherein when said wing (13) of said crankshaft-like tilting unit (33a) is not extended outside frame (6) through opening (66), it is not free to tilt, thus preventing the tilting slats from tilting to a fully or partially open state. id="p-13" id="p-13" id="p-13" id="p-13" id="p-13" id="p-13" id="p-13" id="p-13" id="p-13" id="p-13" id="p-13" id="p-13"

[0013] It is further provided in accordance with another preferred embodiment, the shutter further comprising a plurality of tilting units (33a), all on one side of said shutter curtain (50). 280916/2 id="p-14" id="p-14" id="p-14" id="p-14" id="p-14" id="p-14" id="p-14" id="p-14" id="p-14" id="p-14" id="p-14" id="p-14"

[0014] It is further provided in accordance with another preferred embodiment, the shutter further comprising at least two tilting units (33a), each on a corresponding side of said shutter curtain (50). id="p-15" id="p-15" id="p-15" id="p-15" id="p-15" id="p-15" id="p-15" id="p-15" id="p-15" id="p-15" id="p-15" id="p-15"

[0015] It is further provided in accordance with another preferred embodiment, wherein said synchronizer is a flexible band. id="p-16" id="p-16" id="p-16" id="p-16" id="p-16" id="p-16" id="p-16" id="p-16" id="p-16" id="p-16" id="p-16" id="p-16"

[0016] It is further provided in accordance with another preferred embodiment, wherein said flexible band is flat. id="p-17" id="p-17" id="p-17" id="p-17" id="p-17" id="p-17" id="p-17" id="p-17" id="p-17" id="p-17" id="p-17" id="p-17"

[0017] It is further provided in accordance with another preferred embodiment, wherein said flexible band is having elongated slots (240) for adjustably connecting synchronization devices (21, 21c). id="p-18" id="p-18" id="p-18" id="p-18" id="p-18" id="p-18" id="p-18" id="p-18" id="p-18" id="p-18" id="p-18" id="p-18"

[0018] It is also provided with yet another preferred embodiment of the present subject matter a slat stabilizing actuation mechanism for a roller shutter with tilting slats comprising: at least one lower stabilizer (71b) to be installed in a lower tilting slat (1b) of the roller shutter, comprising: a lower bolt (78b) having a lower pusher (73b) and a pusher (74), said lower bolt free to be moved within the body of said lower stabilizer (71b); a stabilizer spring (90) pushing down said lower bolt (78b) such that when said lower pusher (73b) is not pushed, said pusher (74) of said lower bolt (78b) is within the body of said lower stabilizer (71b); and a plurality of stabilizers (71), each to be installed in a tilting slat (1) of the roller shutter, each comprising: a bolt (78) having a pusher (74), said bolt free to be move within the body of said stabilizer (71); and a stabilizer spring (90) pushing down said bolt (78) such that when said bolt (78) is not pushed, said pusher (74) of said bolt (78) is within the body of said lower stabilizer (71), wherein when said lower pusher (73b) is pushed, said pusher (74) of said lower bolt (78b) extends outside the body of said lower stabilizer (71b), pushing on the bolt (78) of the adjacent stabilizer (71), causing said pusher (74) of said adjacent bolt (78) to extend outside the body of said adjacent stabilizer (71). 6 280916/2 id="p-19" id="p-19" id="p-19" id="p-19" id="p-19" id="p-19" id="p-19" id="p-19" id="p-19" id="p-19" id="p-19" id="p-19"

[0019] It is also provided in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present subject matter a tilting actuation mechanism for a roller shutter with a curtain having a plurality of tilting slats, the tilting actuation mechanism comprising: at least one end-cover for tilting slat (4) having a tilting wing to connect to a tilting stat (1, 1b); at least one crankshaft-like tilting unit (33) comprising: a cranked axis (12) attached to and rotating with said at least one end-cover for tilting slat (4), said cranked axis is configured to rotate within a hole in the chain link (114) in a link (102) of a chain (2) used for rolling up and rolling down the curtain (50); and a tilting arm (3) connected to said cranked axis (12) so that it is parallel and offset relative to said cranked axis (12), said tilting arm is configured to rotate within a bore (121) in a slat synchronization device (21c); and at least one tilting actuation unit (16) comprising: a tilting actuation prong (17) capable of rotating about an axis (17a); and a prong's spring (18) applying force to keep the prong at approximately right angle to the rolling direction of the shutter curtain, such that prong stop 18a rests against tilting actuation unit 16, wherein: as the shutter curtain rolls down in a slat closed state, said tilting wing (13) can push said actuation prong (17), overcoming the force of said prong's spring (18), and while the curtain rolls up in a slat closed state, while said tilting wing (13) is just below said prong, said tilting wing (13) engages said prong such that said prong causes said tilting wing to rotate, thus rotating the entire crankshaft-like tilting unit (33a), and causing said slat synchronization device (21) to be pushed down. id="p-20" id="p-20" id="p-20" id="p-20" id="p-20" id="p-20" id="p-20" id="p-20" id="p-20" id="p-20" id="p-20" id="p-20"

[0020] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosed subject matter belongs. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present disclosed subject matter, suitable methods and materials are described below. In case of conflict, the specification, including 7 280916/2 definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting. id="p-21" id="p-21" id="p-21" id="p-21" id="p-21" id="p-21" id="p-21" id="p-21" id="p-21" id="p-21" id="p-21" id="p-21"

[0021] The features as indicated above can be combined individually or all together.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS id="p-22" id="p-22" id="p-22" id="p-22" id="p-22" id="p-22" id="p-22" id="p-22" id="p-22" id="p-22" id="p-22" id="p-22"

[0022] Some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the preferred embodiments of the present disclosed subject matter only, and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the disclosed subject matter. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details of the disclosed subject matter in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the disclosed subject matter, the description taken with the drawings making apparent to those skilled in the art how the several forms of the disclosed subject matter may be embodied in practice.

In the drawings: id="p-23" id="p-23" id="p-23" id="p-23" id="p-23" id="p-23" id="p-23" id="p-23" id="p-23" id="p-23" id="p-23" id="p-23"

[0023] Fig. 1A schematically showing parts of roller shutter a cable as a slat tilting synchronizer for synchronizing the tilt angle of the slats of the roller shutter, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. id="p-24" id="p-24" id="p-24" id="p-24" id="p-24" id="p-24" id="p-24" id="p-24" id="p-24" id="p-24" id="p-24" id="p-24"

[0024] Fig. 1B schematically showing the assembled roller shutter using a cable for synchronizing the tilt angle of the slats, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. id="p-25" id="p-25" id="p-25" id="p-25" id="p-25" id="p-25" id="p-25" id="p-25" id="p-25" id="p-25" id="p-25" id="p-25"

[0025] Fig. 1C schematically showing the assembled roller shutter using a cable for synchronizing the tilt angle of its slats when the slats are in closed state as the curtain is partially rolled down, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

An enlargement 100b of the tilting angle synchronization mechanism is also seen in this figure. id="p-26" id="p-26" id="p-26" id="p-26" id="p-26" id="p-26" id="p-26" id="p-26" id="p-26" id="p-26" id="p-26" id="p-26"

[0026] Fig. 1D schematically shows the assembled roller shutter using a cable for synchronizing the tilt angle of its slats when the slats are in closed state, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. 8 280916/2 id="p-27" id="p-27" id="p-27" id="p-27" id="p-27" id="p-27" id="p-27" id="p-27" id="p-27" id="p-27" id="p-27" id="p-27"

[0027] Fig. 1E schematically showing the assembled roller shutter using a cable for synchronizing the tilt angle of its slats when the slats are in partially open state, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. id="p-28" id="p-28" id="p-28" id="p-28" id="p-28" id="p-28" id="p-28" id="p-28" id="p-28" id="p-28" id="p-28" id="p-28"

[0028] Fig. 1F schematically showing the assembled roller shutter using a cable for synchronizing the tilt angle of its slats when the slats are in fully open state, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. id="p-29" id="p-29" id="p-29" id="p-29" id="p-29" id="p-29" id="p-29" id="p-29" id="p-29" id="p-29" id="p-29" id="p-29"

[0029] Fig. 2A schematically showing the parts of roller shutter using a semi-rigid band as a slat tilting synchronizer for synchronizing the tilt angle of the tilting slats, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. id="p-30" id="p-30" id="p-30" id="p-30" id="p-30" id="p-30" id="p-30" id="p-30" id="p-30" id="p-30" id="p-30" id="p-30"

[0030] Fig. 2B schematically showing the assembled roller shutter using a semi-rigid band for synchronizing the tilt angle of the tilting slats, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. id="p-31" id="p-31" id="p-31" id="p-31" id="p-31" id="p-31" id="p-31" id="p-31" id="p-31" id="p-31" id="p-31" id="p-31"

[0031] Fig. 3 schematically showing the parts of roller shutter using rigid links as a slat tilting synchronizer for synchronization the tilt angle of the tilting slats, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. id="p-32" id="p-32" id="p-32" id="p-32" id="p-32" id="p-32" id="p-32" id="p-32" id="p-32" id="p-32" id="p-32" id="p-32"

[0032] Fig. 4 schematically showing a roller shutter embedded in a wall, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. id="p-33" id="p-33" id="p-33" id="p-33" id="p-33" id="p-33" id="p-33" id="p-33" id="p-33" id="p-33" id="p-33" id="p-33"

[0033] Fig. 5A schematically showing a roller shutter wherein the tilting slats are in closed stat, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. id="p-34" id="p-34" id="p-34" id="p-34" id="p-34" id="p-34" id="p-34" id="p-34" id="p-34" id="p-34" id="p-34" id="p-34"

[0034] Fig. 5B(i) and Fig. 5B(ii) schematically showing respectively the tilting wing with, and without a roller on the tilting wing respectively, in accordance with some exemplary id="p-35" id="p-35" id="p-35" id="p-35" id="p-35" id="p-35" id="p-35" id="p-35" id="p-35" id="p-35" id="p-35" id="p-35"

[0035] Fig. 5C(i) and Fig. 5C(ii) schematically showing respectively the tilting wing, wherein the tilting slats are in open and in closed state respectively, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. id="p-36" id="p-36" id="p-36" id="p-36" id="p-36" id="p-36" id="p-36" id="p-36" id="p-36" id="p-36" id="p-36" id="p-36"

[0036] Fig. 6(i) and Fig. 6(ii) schematically showing the use of a modified end-cover for tilting slat 4b for synchronizing the tilt angle of its slats, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. 9 280916/2 id="p-37" id="p-37" id="p-37" id="p-37" id="p-37" id="p-37" id="p-37" id="p-37" id="p-37" id="p-37" id="p-37" id="p-37"

[0037] Fig. 7A schematically showing a roller shutter having stabilized slats in slightly open state, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. id="p-38" id="p-38" id="p-38" id="p-38" id="p-38" id="p-38" id="p-38" id="p-38" id="p-38" id="p-38" id="p-38" id="p-38"

[0038] Fig. 7B schematically showing slats stabilizers for roller shutter, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. id="p-39" id="p-39" id="p-39" id="p-39" id="p-39" id="p-39" id="p-39" id="p-39" id="p-39" id="p-39" id="p-39" id="p-39"

[0039] Fig. 7C schematically showing a roller shutter having stabilized slats in stabilized state, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION id="p-40" id="p-40" id="p-40" id="p-40" id="p-40" id="p-40" id="p-40" id="p-40" id="p-40" id="p-40" id="p-40" id="p-40"

[0040] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the disclosed subject matter in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosed subject matter is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The disclosed subject matter is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The drawings are generally not to scale. For clarity, non-essential elements were omitted from some of the drawings. id="p-41" id="p-41" id="p-41" id="p-41" id="p-41" id="p-41" id="p-41" id="p-41" id="p-41" id="p-41" id="p-41" id="p-41"

[0041] The terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes", "including", and "having" together with their conjugates mean "including but not limited to". The term "consisting of" has the same meaning as "including and limited to". id="p-42" id="p-42" id="p-42" id="p-42" id="p-42" id="p-42" id="p-42" id="p-42" id="p-42" id="p-42" id="p-42" id="p-42"

[0042] The term "consisting essentially of" means that the composition, method or structure may include additional ingredients, steps and/or parts, but only if the additional ingredients, steps and/or parts do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method or structure. id="p-43" id="p-43" id="p-43" id="p-43" id="p-43" id="p-43" id="p-43" id="p-43" id="p-43" id="p-43" id="p-43" id="p-43"

[0043] As used herein, the singular form "a", "an" and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term "a compound" or "at least one compound" may include a plurality of compounds, including mixtures thereof. id="p-44" id="p-44" id="p-44" id="p-44" id="p-44" id="p-44" id="p-44" id="p-44" id="p-44" id="p-44" id="p-44" id="p-44"

[0044] Throughout this application, various embodiments of this disclosed subject matter may be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is 280916/2 merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the disclosed subject matter. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible sub-ranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. id="p-45" id="p-45" id="p-45" id="p-45" id="p-45" id="p-45" id="p-45" id="p-45" id="p-45" id="p-45" id="p-45" id="p-45"

[0045] It is appreciated that certain features of the disclosed subject matter, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the disclosed subject matter, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the disclosed subject matter. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements. id="p-46" id="p-46" id="p-46" id="p-46" id="p-46" id="p-46" id="p-46" id="p-46" id="p-46" id="p-46" id="p-46" id="p-46"

[0046] In discussion of the various figures described herein below, like numbers refer to like parts. id="p-47" id="p-47" id="p-47" id="p-47" id="p-47" id="p-47" id="p-47" id="p-47" id="p-47" id="p-47" id="p-47" id="p-47"

[0047] To reduce cluttering the drawing only few multiple identical elements may appear, and only one or few may be numbered. In repeating drawing, only the relevant parts may be numbered, and elements already disclosed and explained in previous drawings may be left unmarked. id="p-48" id="p-48" id="p-48" id="p-48" id="p-48" id="p-48" id="p-48" id="p-48" id="p-48" id="p-48" id="p-48" id="p-48"

[0048] It should be noted that figures 1A to 4C show only the left hand section of the roller shutter. The right hand half of the roller shutter is a mirror image of the left hand section and was thus omitted from the drawing. It also should be noted that the tilt angle synchronizations units seen in these figures can be placed on the left hand side as seen, only on the right hand side, or on both the right and the left hand sides. id="p-49" id="p-49" id="p-49" id="p-49" id="p-49" id="p-49" id="p-49" id="p-49" id="p-49" id="p-49" id="p-49" id="p-49"

[0049] Aspects of the present disclosed subject matter can be best understood by presenting a first exemplary embodiment 100B of a roller shutter using a cable 5b for synchronizing the tilt angle of its slats. This exemplary embodiment is seen in figures 1A-F. id="p-50" id="p-50" id="p-50" id="p-50" id="p-50" id="p-50" id="p-50" id="p-50" id="p-50" id="p-50" id="p-50" id="p-50"

[0050] Referring now to Fig. 1A, showing parts of roller shutter 100B using a cable 5b as a slat tilting synchronizer for synchronizing the tilt angle of the slats, in accordance with some 11 280916/2 exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, and Fig. 1B is showing the assembled roller shutter using a cable for synchronizing the tilt angle of the slats. id="p-51" id="p-51" id="p-51" id="p-51" id="p-51" id="p-51" id="p-51" id="p-51" id="p-51" id="p-51" id="p-51" id="p-51"

[0051] Fig. 1B is showing the assembled roller shutter 100B using a cable for synchronizing the tilt angle of its slats when the slats are in closed state as the curtain is partially rolled down, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. An enlargement 100b of the tilting angle synchronization mechanism is also seen in this figure. id="p-52" id="p-52" id="p-52" id="p-52" id="p-52" id="p-52" id="p-52" id="p-52" id="p-52" id="p-52" id="p-52" id="p-52"

[0052] The roller shutter 100B using a cable for synchronizing the tilt angle of the slats comprises of a curtain 50 made of a plurality of tilting slats 1, wherein the upper tilting slat is marked as 1a and the lowest tilting slat is marked as 1b. Additionally, curtain 50 further comprises a non-tilting slat, or a plurality of non-tilting slats 30. It should be noted that curtain 50 may comprises more tilting states than seen in these figures, and these were omitted for simplifying the drawings. It should also be noted that additional non-tilting slats may be added to the lower end of curtain 50, that is, below the lowest tilting slat 1b. id="p-53" id="p-53" id="p-53" id="p-53" id="p-53" id="p-53" id="p-53" id="p-53" id="p-53" id="p-53" id="p-53" id="p-53"

[0053] The slats are held together by a chain 2, made of chain links 102 secured to one another by chain pins 112. Each tilting slat 1 is terminated in a corresponding end-cover for tilting slat 4 which inserted into the slat and having a hole (not seen in these figures) for connecting to a corresponding crankshaft-like tilting unit 33 that connects the tilting slat 1 to the chain 2. Each cranked axis 12 of tilting unit 33 has a cylindrical cranked axis 12 that passes through the hole for cranked axis 114 in the corresponding chain link chain links 102. The cranked axis 12 is fixed to the end-cover for tilting slat 4, but can rotate within the hole for cranked axis 114.

Thus, lowering or raising chain 2 will lower or raise curtain 50. Rotating the tilting units 33 will cause the tilting slats to tilt. id="p-54" id="p-54" id="p-54" id="p-54" id="p-54" id="p-54" id="p-54" id="p-54" id="p-54" id="p-54" id="p-54" id="p-54"

[0054] Similarly, non-tilting slat(s) 30 is terminated in an end-cover for non-tilting slat 4a which is connected to the corresponding chain link with a connecting pin for non-tilting slats . The upper (if there is more than one) non-tilting slat(s) 30 is (are) connected to flexible belt 8 that is wrapped around a drum 7. As the drum 7 rotates, manually or by a motor (not seen in these figures) about main axis 77, the flexible belt 8 pulls the curtain 50 up, wrapping it around the drum, raising the curtain. As the drum 7 rotates in the opposite direction, the curtain 50 rolls down. Optionally flexible belt 8 is missing, and the upper non-tilting slat 30 is attached to drum 50. 12 280916/2 id="p-55" id="p-55" id="p-55" id="p-55" id="p-55" id="p-55" id="p-55" id="p-55" id="p-55" id="p-55" id="p-55" id="p-55"

[0055] Curtain 50, which is flexible to be able to be wrapped around drum 7, is confined to move up and down along rails 76, which are slots opened to cavity 96 of frame 6. One of frame is located on the right hand side and the left hand side respectively (only the left hand side is seen in figure 1A, and is missing in figure 1B in order show the tilting mechanism. See figures 4A-C and figure 5 for more details). Frame 6 may have an opening 66 that would be discussed in figures 5A-C. id="p-56" id="p-56" id="p-56" id="p-56" id="p-56" id="p-56" id="p-56" id="p-56" id="p-56" id="p-56" id="p-56" id="p-56"

[0056] Figures 1A-F show a slat tilting synchronization option 5B which uses a cable 5b to cause all tilting slats 1, including the upper tilting slat 1a and lower tilting slat 1b, to tilt to the same (or at least approximately the same) tilting angle at the same time. id="p-57" id="p-57" id="p-57" id="p-57" id="p-57" id="p-57" id="p-57" id="p-57" id="p-57" id="p-57" id="p-57" id="p-57"

[0057] Each crankshaft-like tilting unit 33 has a tilting arm 3 which is offset relative to the cranked axis 12. Each tilting arm 3 is inserted into, and free to rotate, within a bore 121 in a slat synchronization device 21. To align the tilting synchronization option 5B, all the slat synchronization devices 21 (including the upper slat synchronization device 21a) are connected to cable 5b by securing cable 5b between slat synchronization devices for cable option 21 and cable attachment plates 23 using the cable attachment screws 24, such that the distance between adjacent slat synchronization devices is the same as the distance between the corresponding chain links 102. This may be easily done, for example, by stretching cable 5b along the assembled curtain 50, chain 2, tilting units 33 and synchronization devices 21, with all slats in the same (for example close) state, and then tightening cable attachment screws 24.

Alternatively, and optionally, synchronization devices 21 may be attached at the correct positions along cable 5b using a rig, prior to attaching each synchronization device 21 to the corresponding tilting arm 3. Optionally, two cables, 5b and 5b' are used. Such optional dual cable arrangement, seen in the enlargement 100b may add stability and relatability. id="p-58" id="p-58" id="p-58" id="p-58" id="p-58" id="p-58" id="p-58" id="p-58" id="p-58" id="p-58" id="p-58" id="p-58"

[0058] It should be noted that other methods for attaching the cable to the slat synchronization devices may be used. id="p-59" id="p-59" id="p-59" id="p-59" id="p-59" id="p-59" id="p-59" id="p-59" id="p-59" id="p-59" id="p-59" id="p-59"

[0059] As long as cable 5b is kept stretched, pulling it up in respect to chain 2 will cause synchronized opening of all the tilting slats 1 by pulling on all tilting arms 3, thus rotating the tilting units 33 and tilting slats 1 through end-covers for tilting slats 4. Similarly, pulling cable 5b down will cause synchronized closing of all the tilting slats 1. 13 280916/2 id="p-60" id="p-60" id="p-60" id="p-60" id="p-60" id="p-60" id="p-60" id="p-60" id="p-60" id="p-60" id="p-60" id="p-60"

[0060] Cable 5b is kept stretched by connecting its upper end (directly, or via upper slat synchronization device 21a) to cable spring 14 connected to upper chain link 102a by spring attachment pin 26. Additionally and optionally, torsion springs 15 may be used in some, or all crankshaft-like tilting units 33, exerting torque in the direction of keeping the corresponding slat closed, thus assisting in overcoming friction in the system that may be larger than the force provided by cable spring 14. Unless cable 5b is pulled from below, the force of cable spring 14 (and optional torsion spring(s) 15) keeps all tilting slats 1 in a "normal closed" state. id="p-61" id="p-61" id="p-61" id="p-61" id="p-61" id="p-61" id="p-61" id="p-61" id="p-61" id="p-61" id="p-61" id="p-61"

[0061] To tilt the tilting slats 1 to a partially or fully open state, a slat opening mechanism is used, the operation of which is disclosed in more details in figures 1C to 1F. The slat opening mechanism comprises a lower crankshaft-like tilting unit 33a having a tilting wing 13 which is connected to the lower tilting slat 1b and to lower slat synchronization device 21b. Tilting wing 13 can be engaged with tilting actuation prong 17 in tilting actuation unit 16, which is attached to the frame 6. Tilting actuation unit 16 comprises prong's base 20 having holes for axis of tilting actuation prong 17a about which prong 17 can rotate. Prong's spring 18 keeps prong 17 approximately at right angle to frame 6 until prong stop 18a rests against tilting actuation unit 16. Prong 17 can be tilted down when pushed by tilting wing 13 as curtain 50 is lowered, allowing tilting wing 13 to pass it. Once tilting wing 13 had passed actuation prong 17 (as curtain 50 is very closed to, or fully unrolled), if curtain 50 is now rolled up, tilting wing 13 engages actuation prong 17 which pulls it down, causing the rotation of lower crankshaft-like tilting unit 33a, which pulls cable 5b and causes synchronized opening of all tilting slats 1.

Rolling up of curtain 50 by small amount causes partial opening to the tilting slats. id="p-62" id="p-62" id="p-62" id="p-62" id="p-62" id="p-62" id="p-62" id="p-62" id="p-62" id="p-62" id="p-62" id="p-62"

[0062] Optionally, crankshaft-like tilting unit 33 and 33a are made of metal, for example aluminum. Alternatively, crankshaft-like tilting unit 33 and 33a are made of plastic. Optionally, tilting units 33 are made of plastic, while lower crankshaft-like tilting unit 33a is made of metal, for example aluminum. id="p-63" id="p-63" id="p-63" id="p-63" id="p-63" id="p-63" id="p-63" id="p-63" id="p-63" id="p-63" id="p-63" id="p-63"

[0063] Figures 1C to 1F show the stages of the operation of slat tilting synchronization option 5B seen in figures 1A and 1B. id="p-64" id="p-64" id="p-64" id="p-64" id="p-64" id="p-64" id="p-64" id="p-64" id="p-64" id="p-64" id="p-64" id="p-64"

[0064] Fig. 1C is showing the assembled roller shutter 100B using a cable for synchronizing the tilt angle of its slats when the slats are in closed state as the curtain is partially rolled down and as tilting wing 13 is in the process of pushing tilting actuation prong 17 down overcoming 14 280916/2 the force of prong's spring 18, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. An enlargement 100b of the tilting angle synchronization mechanism is also seen in this Figure. id="p-65" id="p-65" id="p-65" id="p-65" id="p-65" id="p-65" id="p-65" id="p-65" id="p-65" id="p-65" id="p-65" id="p-65"

[0065] Fig. 1D is showing the assembled roller shutter 100B using a cable for synchronizing the tilt angle of its slats when the slats are in closed state as the curtain is fully (or almost fully) rolled down and tilting wing 13 already passed tilting actuation prong 17 such that prong 17 returned to its natural position under the force of prong's spring 18, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. id="p-66" id="p-66" id="p-66" id="p-66" id="p-66" id="p-66" id="p-66" id="p-66" id="p-66" id="p-66" id="p-66" id="p-66"

[0066] Fig. 1E is showing the assembled roller shutter 100B using a cable for synchronizing the tilt angle of its slats when the slats are in partially open state as the curtain is pulled up slightly such that tilting wing 13 that had already passed tilting actuation prong 17 is now engaged with prong 17 which cases a rotation of lower crankshaft-like tilting unit 33a, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. id="p-67" id="p-67" id="p-67" id="p-67" id="p-67" id="p-67" id="p-67" id="p-67" id="p-67" id="p-67" id="p-67" id="p-67"

[0067] As the lower crankshaft-like tilting unit 33a rotates, lowest tilting slat 1b rotates to partially open state. Additionally, lower slat synchronization device 21b is pulled down by tilting arm 3a of lower crankshaft-like tilting unit 33a, pulling down on cable 5b. As cable 5b is pulled down, all slat synchronization devices 21 moved down with it causing synchronized opening of tilting slats 1, overcoming the force of cable spring 14 (and optional torsion springs if installed). id="p-68" id="p-68" id="p-68" id="p-68" id="p-68" id="p-68" id="p-68" id="p-68" id="p-68" id="p-68" id="p-68" id="p-68"

[0068] Fig. 1F is showing the assembled roller shutter 100B using a cable for synchronizing the tilt angle of its slats when the slats are in fully open state as the curtain 50 is pulled up more such that tilting wing 13 is resting against the end of tilting actuation prong 17, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. id="p-69" id="p-69" id="p-69" id="p-69" id="p-69" id="p-69" id="p-69" id="p-69" id="p-69" id="p-69" id="p-69" id="p-69"

[0069] In can be seen that the end of tilting actuation prong 17 remains stationary as prong stop 18a rests against tilting actuation unit 16 forcing the tilting wing 13 to rotate. id="p-70" id="p-70" id="p-70" id="p-70" id="p-70" id="p-70" id="p-70" id="p-70" id="p-70" id="p-70" id="p-70" id="p-70"

[0070] As curtain 50 is pulled up even farther, the tilting wing 13 moves past tilting actuation prong 17 and disengage from it. This frees lower crankshaft-like tilting unit 33a to retune to its normal state seen in figure 1B under the forces of cable spring 14, and all tilting slats return to closed state. 280916/2 id="p-71" id="p-71" id="p-71" id="p-71" id="p-71" id="p-71" id="p-71" id="p-71" id="p-71" id="p-71" id="p-71" id="p-71"

[0071] More aspects of the present disclosed subject matter can be best understood by presenting another exemplary embodiment 100C of a roller shutter using a semi-rigid band 5c for synchronizing the tilt angle of the tilting slats. This exemplary embodiment is seen in figures 2A and 2B. id="p-72" id="p-72" id="p-72" id="p-72" id="p-72" id="p-72" id="p-72" id="p-72" id="p-72" id="p-72" id="p-72" id="p-72"

[0072] Referring now to Fig. 2A, showing the parts of roller shutter 100C using a semi-rigid band 5c as a slat tilting synchronizer for synchronizing the tilt angle of the tilting slats, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, and Fig. 2B is showing the assembled roller shutter using a semi-rigid band 100C for synchronizing the tilt angle of the tilting slats. id="p-73" id="p-73" id="p-73" id="p-73" id="p-73" id="p-73" id="p-73" id="p-73" id="p-73" id="p-73" id="p-73" id="p-73"

[0073] To reduce clattering of the drawing, some elements which are same and already explained in the previous drawings are not numbered in these figures. id="p-74" id="p-74" id="p-74" id="p-74" id="p-74" id="p-74" id="p-74" id="p-74" id="p-74" id="p-74" id="p-74" id="p-74"

[0074] Fig. 1B is showing the assembled roller shutter 100C using a semi-rigid band 5c for synchronizing the tilt angle of the tilting slats when the slats are in closed state as the curtain is partially rolled down, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. An enlargement 100c of the tilting angle synchronization mechanism is also seen in this figure. id="p-75" id="p-75" id="p-75" id="p-75" id="p-75" id="p-75" id="p-75" id="p-75" id="p-75" id="p-75" id="p-75" id="p-75"

[0075] Instead of using a cable, roller shutter 100C using a semi-rigid band 5c for synchronizing the tilt angle of its slats. Semi-rigid band 5c is having securing holes 55, located at the proper locations along semi-rigid band 5c such that slat synchronization device 21, as well as lower slat synchronization device 21c and upper slat synchronization device 21a can be attached to it using attachment screws 24 through holes 240. Holes 240 may be accurately drilled along the length semi-rigid band 5c, thus positioning the slat synchronization devices 21 at the correct distances from each other. Alternatively, holes 240 may be elongated slots, allowing adjusting the positions of synchronization devices 21 to the correct distances from each other. Attachment plate 23 may omitted or washers (not seen in these drawings) may be used. Alternatively or optionally, attachment screws 24 may be selected with large heads to spread the stress on semi-rigid band 5c. 16 280916/2 id="p-76" id="p-76" id="p-76" id="p-76" id="p-76" id="p-76" id="p-76" id="p-76" id="p-76" id="p-76" id="p-76" id="p-76"

[0076] It should be noted that other methods for attaching the semi-rigid band to the slat synchronization devices may be used. id="p-77" id="p-77" id="p-77" id="p-77" id="p-77" id="p-77" id="p-77" id="p-77" id="p-77" id="p-77" id="p-77" id="p-77"

[0077] In another exemplary embodiment, a flexible strip, having holes or elongated holes may replace the cable 5b, or the two cables 5b and 5b', or the semi-rigid band 5c in any of the uses. Such flexible strip may be flat. Optionally, the able spring 14, and/or torsion springs 15 are used with the flexible strip to keep it tight when operating as a synchronizer. id="p-78" id="p-78" id="p-78" id="p-78" id="p-78" id="p-78" id="p-78" id="p-78" id="p-78" id="p-78" id="p-78" id="p-78"

[0078] The operation of roller shutter 100C using a semi-rigid band 5c for synchronizing the tilt angle of its slats is the same as already shown and will not be repeated. id="p-79" id="p-79" id="p-79" id="p-79" id="p-79" id="p-79" id="p-79" id="p-79" id="p-79" id="p-79" id="p-79" id="p-79"

[0079] Unlike the cable 5b, a semi-rigid band 5c can apply both pulling and pushing forces on slat synchronization device 21. Crankshaft-like tilting unit 33a need not be attached to the lowest tilting slat 1b, and can be attached to other tilting slats instead. Semi-rigid band 5c may be made of resilient metal such as steel. Semi-rigid band 5c may have a concave cross section, similar to a blade of a measuring tape, such that it can be rolled around drum 7, but behave rigidly when straight. id="p-80" id="p-80" id="p-80" id="p-80" id="p-80" id="p-80" id="p-80" id="p-80" id="p-80" id="p-80" id="p-80" id="p-80"

[0080] Referring now to Fig. 3, showing the parts of roller shutter 100A using rigid links as a slat tilting synchronizer for synchronization the tilt angle of the tilting slats, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. id="p-81" id="p-81" id="p-81" id="p-81" id="p-81" id="p-81" id="p-81" id="p-81" id="p-81" id="p-81" id="p-81" id="p-81"

[0081] To reduce clattering of the drawing, some elements which are same and already explained in the previous drawings are not numbered. As this embodiment is similar in construction and operation to the already seen embodiments, the assembled roller shutter 100A using rigid links synchronization option and its operation was omitted from the drawings. id="p-82" id="p-82" id="p-82" id="p-82" id="p-82" id="p-82" id="p-82" id="p-82" id="p-82" id="p-82" id="p-82" id="p-82"

[0082] Instead of using a cable or semi-rigid band, roller shutter 100A is using a synchronization chain 5A made of rigid links 80 for synchronizing the tilt angle of the tilting slats. Each rigid link 80 is having two link holes 82 through which tilting arms 3 of crankshaft- like tilting units 33 and 33a can be inserted. Tilting arms 3 of crankshaft-like tilting units 33 and 33a can rotate within link holes 82 and are used for both linking synchronization chain 5A together, and for tilting the tilting slats as disclosed above. End fasteners 84, secured to the ends 85a and 85b of tilting arm 3 of crankshaft-like tilting units 33 and 33a respectively prevent it from disengaging from link holes 82 in rigid links 80. 17 280916/2 id="p-83" id="p-83" id="p-83" id="p-83" id="p-83" id="p-83" id="p-83" id="p-83" id="p-83" id="p-83" id="p-83" id="p-83"

[0083] The operation of roller shutter 100A using synchronization chain 5A for synchronizing the tilt angle of its slats is the same as already shown and will not be repeated. id="p-84" id="p-84" id="p-84" id="p-84" id="p-84" id="p-84" id="p-84" id="p-84" id="p-84" id="p-84" id="p-84" id="p-84"

[0084] However it should be noted that since chain 5A can both pull and push on tilting arm 3, springs 14 and 15 may be omitted. id="p-85" id="p-85" id="p-85" id="p-85" id="p-85" id="p-85" id="p-85" id="p-85" id="p-85" id="p-85" id="p-85" id="p-85"

[0085] Unlike the cable 5b, synchronization chain 5A can apply both pulling and pushing forces on slat synchronization device 21. Thus, crankshaft-like tilting unit 33a need not be attached to the lowest tilting slat 1b, and can be attached to other tilting slats instead. id="p-86" id="p-86" id="p-86" id="p-86" id="p-86" id="p-86" id="p-86" id="p-86" id="p-86" id="p-86" id="p-86" id="p-86"

[0086] It also should be noted, that as link holes 82 in rigid links 80 must be larger than tilting arms 3 to allow it to rotate, and specifically after extended use that enlarge link holes 82 due to friction, the distance between synchronization devices 21 may become different than the distance between tilting slats 1, thus creating uneven slat tilting angles. Accordingly, it may be advantageous to use the cable or the semi-rigid band embodiments. Additionally, it should be noted that in closed state, tilting arms 3 have to be aligned with chain pins 112 such that curtain 50 and synchronization chain 5A would be able to be wrapped around drum 7 as the shutter is rolled up. More tolerance is provided by the flexibility of flexible band or semi-rigid 5c and cable 5c, thus reducing the need for accurate manufacturing, potentially reducing cost and increasing reliability. id="p-87" id="p-87" id="p-87" id="p-87" id="p-87" id="p-87" id="p-87" id="p-87" id="p-87" id="p-87" id="p-87" id="p-87"

[0087] Referring now to Fig. 4, showing a roller shutter embedded in a wall, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. id="p-88" id="p-88" id="p-88" id="p-88" id="p-88" id="p-88" id="p-88" id="p-88" id="p-88" id="p-88" id="p-88" id="p-88"

[0088] Curtain 50, which is flexible in order to be able to be wrapped around drum 7, is confined to move along rails 76 within the cavity 96 in frame 6 which is embedded in wall 79.

Curtain 50 is attached to drum 7 by belt 8. Side 81 of wall 79 is facing the outside. id="p-89" id="p-89" id="p-89" id="p-89" id="p-89" id="p-89" id="p-89" id="p-89" id="p-89" id="p-89" id="p-89" id="p-89"

[0089] Any one of the synchronization options disclosed above may be applied. id="p-90" id="p-90" id="p-90" id="p-90" id="p-90" id="p-90" id="p-90" id="p-90" id="p-90" id="p-90" id="p-90" id="p-90"

[0090] Figures 5A to Fig. 5D show and explain an optional embodiments wherein frame 6 is having an opening 66 allowing lower crankshaft-like tilting unit 33a to tilt and extend outside frame 6 when the slats are in fully or partially open state, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. id="p-91" id="p-91" id="p-91" id="p-91" id="p-91" id="p-91" id="p-91" id="p-91" id="p-91" id="p-91" id="p-91" id="p-91"

[0091] Any one of the synchronization options disclosed above may be applied. In contrast to previous figures, these figures show the frame which hides some of the internal elements. 18 280916/2 id="p-92" id="p-92" id="p-92" id="p-92" id="p-92" id="p-92" id="p-92" id="p-92" id="p-92" id="p-92" id="p-92" id="p-92"

[0092] Referring now to Fig. 5A, showing a roller shutter 100X, where "X" may be stand for any of "A", "B" or "C", wherein the tilting slats are in closed stat, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. An enlargement 100x, where "x" may be stand for any of "a", "b" or "c" is also included in the figure. id="p-93" id="p-93" id="p-93" id="p-93" id="p-93" id="p-93" id="p-93" id="p-93" id="p-93" id="p-93" id="p-93" id="p-93"

[0093] Referring now to Fig. 5B(i) and Fig. 5B(ii), showing respectively the tilting wing with, and without a roller 130 on the tilting wing 13 and 13a respectively, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. id="p-94" id="p-94" id="p-94" id="p-94" id="p-94" id="p-94" id="p-94" id="p-94" id="p-94" id="p-94" id="p-94" id="p-94"

[0094] The modified tilting wing 13a seen in figure 5B(ii) has a roller, or a bearing 130, to ease the sliding of tilting wing 13a within the frame 6. id="p-95" id="p-95" id="p-95" id="p-95" id="p-95" id="p-95" id="p-95" id="p-95" id="p-95" id="p-95" id="p-95" id="p-95"

[0095] Referring now to Fig. 5C(i) and Fig. 5C(ii), showing respectively the tilting wing, wherein the tilting slats are in open and in closed state respectively, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Enlargements 59(i) and 59(ii) are also included in the drawings. id="p-96" id="p-96" id="p-96" id="p-96" id="p-96" id="p-96" id="p-96" id="p-96" id="p-96" id="p-96" id="p-96" id="p-96"

[0096] In Fig. 5C(i) the tilting wing 13 is confined within rail 76. This prevents forcing the rotating slats 1 to an open state by applying force on tilting slat. id="p-97" id="p-97" id="p-97" id="p-97" id="p-97" id="p-97" id="p-97" id="p-97" id="p-97" id="p-97" id="p-97" id="p-97"

[0097] In Fig. 5C(ii) the tilting wing 13 extends outwards through the opening 66 in the frame 6. This allows the rotation of the tilting wing 13 and allows rotation of rotating slats 1 and 1b to an open state. id="p-98" id="p-98" id="p-98" id="p-98" id="p-98" id="p-98" id="p-98" id="p-98" id="p-98" id="p-98" id="p-98" id="p-98"

[0098] Referring now to Fig. 6(i) and Fig. 6(ii), showing the use of a modified end-cover for tilting slat 4b for synchronizing the tilt angle of its slats, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Figures 6(i) and 6(ii) are showing the same assembly from different viewpoints. id="p-99" id="p-99" id="p-99" id="p-99" id="p-99" id="p-99" id="p-99" id="p-99" id="p-99" id="p-99" id="p-99" id="p-99"

[0099] In this exemplary embodiment, tilting wing 13b is attached to, or part of at least one modified end-cover for tilting slat 4b. The tilting actuation unit (not seen in these figure) is properly positioned to engage tilting wing 13b, such that when tilting wing 13b rotates, the rotation is transferred through cranked axes 12 to push, or pull synchronization device 21 to cause synchronized tilting of all the tilting slats. 19 280916/2 id="p-100" id="p-100" id="p-100" id="p-100" id="p-100" id="p-100" id="p-100" id="p-100" id="p-100" id="p-100" id="p-100" id="p-100"

[00100] Fig. 7A is showing a roller shutter having stabilized slats 70 in slightly open state, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. An enlargement 70a is also seen in the figure. id="p-101" id="p-101" id="p-101" id="p-101" id="p-101" id="p-101" id="p-101" id="p-101" id="p-101" id="p-101" id="p-101" id="p-101"

[00101] Although one stabilizer (71,71b) is seen per each tilting slat (1, 1b respectively), it should be noted that few such stabilizers may be installed, in each tilting slat. Additionally, the location of the stabilizer(s) along the length of the slats may be selected to provide good stabilization. For example, when one stabilizer is used per tilting slat, it may be located at or near the center of the slat. Similarly, when two stabilizers are used per tilting slat, they may be located at or near the 1/3 and 2/3 of the length of each slat, etc. id="p-102" id="p-102" id="p-102" id="p-102" id="p-102" id="p-102" id="p-102" id="p-102" id="p-102" id="p-102" id="p-102" id="p-102"

[00102] It should be noted that generally the slats (tilting slats 1, 1a, 1b, and non-tilting slat(s) ) of the roller shutter disclosed herein are generally long, thin and supported only at both ends. It may be advantageous to lock the slats one to each other, while in closed state and the shutter is fully rolled down so as to add stability to the curtain. This can increase the resistance of the curtain to intrusion, and to decrease the ability to force opening one of few tilting slats in order to view the interior of the room that the roller shutter is protecting. In high winds or a storm, stabilized curtain may provide better protection from the weather. The profile of the slats with optional overlapping flap 88 at its bottom, and an optional gasket 89 nay provides rain protection. id="p-103" id="p-103" id="p-103" id="p-103" id="p-103" id="p-103" id="p-103" id="p-103" id="p-103" id="p-103" id="p-103" id="p-103"

[00103] Slats for roller shutters are often manufactured by extrusion, and are usually hollow to reduce weight and cost. Stabilizers 71 and lower stabilizer 71b are installed in cavities 11 and 11b in slats 1 and lower slat 1b respectively. A similar stabilizer, or at least a receptive slot, may be installed in a non-tilting slat(s) 30 (not seen in these figures) to stabilize the upper tilting slat 1a. id="p-104" id="p-104" id="p-104" id="p-104" id="p-104" id="p-104" id="p-104" id="p-104" id="p-104" id="p-104" id="p-104" id="p-104"

[00104] In figure 7A, the lower tilting slat 1b is just above the window sill (or the floor, if the shutter installed in a door opening) 72. Lower pusher 73b of lower bolt 78b is free to be move down within the body of lower stabilizer 71b, forced by gravity and stabilizer spring 90. In this un-stabilized state, pusher 74 is within the body of lower stabilizer 71b. Similarly, in this non- stabilized state, all pushers 74 in all tilting slats 1, and 1b, are each within the body of the corresponding stabilizers 71 and 71b, as bolts 78 and 78b are pushed down by stabilizer spring 90. As a result, tilting slats 1 and 1b can be titled between closed state, partially open, or fully 280916/2 open state. As was discussed in figure 1E, opening the tilting slat is performed by pulling the curtain over a short distance by chain 2. Thus, pulling chain 2 for a short distance, first free the tilting slats by bringing the curtain to the state seen in figure 7A, and further pulling chain 2 starts opening the tilting slats. id="p-105" id="p-105" id="p-105" id="p-105" id="p-105" id="p-105" id="p-105" id="p-105" id="p-105" id="p-105" id="p-105" id="p-105"

[00105] Optionally, Stabilizers 71, 71b may be integrated into end-cover for tilting slat 4, 4b. In this case its primary function is to provide security against forcing open the slats in order to look into, or to gain access into the housing protected by the curtain. id="p-106" id="p-106" id="p-106" id="p-106" id="p-106" id="p-106" id="p-106" id="p-106" id="p-106" id="p-106" id="p-106" id="p-106"

[00106] Fig. 7B is showing more details of slats stabilizers for roller shutter, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. id="p-107" id="p-107" id="p-107" id="p-107" id="p-107" id="p-107" id="p-107" id="p-107" id="p-107" id="p-107" id="p-107" id="p-107"

[00107] Lower slat stabilizer 71b is different from slats stabilizers 71 by having a pusher 73b at the bottom of lower bolt 78b. In the un-stabilized state seen here, pusher 73b protrude outside lower slat stabilizer 71b, (and below lower slat 1b) through lower opening 91 in lower slat stabilizer 71b. id="p-108" id="p-108" id="p-108" id="p-108" id="p-108" id="p-108" id="p-108" id="p-108" id="p-108" id="p-108" id="p-108" id="p-108"

[00108] As will be seen in figure 7C, when the curtain 50 is completely rolled down, pusher 73b meets the window sill 72, causing lower bolt 78b to overcome the restoring force of stabilizer spring 90 and to move up, such that pusher 74 exit out of upper opening 92, in lower slat stabilizer 71b. Pusher 74 then enters the lower opening 91 of the adjacent slats stabilizers 71, causing bolt 78 to be pushed up. When thus pushed, each bolt 78 in turn, pushes on the bolt 78 in the slats stabilizers 71 such that each pusher 74 is locked in the lower opening 91 of the slats stabilizers 71 in the slat above it. id="p-109" id="p-109" id="p-109" id="p-109" id="p-109" id="p-109" id="p-109" id="p-109" id="p-109" id="p-109" id="p-109" id="p-109"

[00109] Optional stabilizer covers 95 are fastened by fasteners 95a that mate with recesses 95b in the body of the corresponding slat stabilizer 71, 71b. Other methods of fastening the stabilizer covers 95 may be used, or stabilizer covers may be omitted. id="p-110" id="p-110" id="p-110" id="p-110" id="p-110" id="p-110" id="p-110" id="p-110" id="p-110" id="p-110" id="p-110" id="p-110"

[00110] Fig. 7C schematically showing a roller shutter having stabilized slats in stabilized state, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. id="p-111" id="p-111" id="p-111" id="p-111" id="p-111" id="p-111" id="p-111" id="p-111" id="p-111" id="p-111" id="p-111" id="p-111"

[00111] Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims. 21 280916/2 All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. 22

Claims (16)

280916/2 CLAIMS

1. A tilting actuation mechanism for a roller shutter, the roller shutter is having: a curtain having a plurality of tilting slats, each tilting slat is having end-covers; the roller shutter is capable of moving along shutter frames; two chains, each comprises a plurality of links are connecting the tilting salts; a plurality of crankshaft-like tilting units each connected to a corresponding tilting slat and a slat tilting synchronizer for causing synchronized tilting of the tilting slats when actuated by the tilting actuation mechanism, the tilting actuation mechanism comprising: at least one crankshaft-like tilting unit (33a) comprising: a cranked axis (12) attached to, and rotating with, a corresponding slat (1, 1b) of the tilting slats, said cranked axis is configured to rotate within a hole in the chain link (114) in a link (102) of a chain (2) used for rolling up and rolling down the curtain (50); a tilting wing (13) connected to said cranked axis (12); and a tilting arm (3) connected to said cranked axis (12) so that it is parallel and offset relative to said cranked axis (12), said tilting arm is configured to rotate within a bore (121) in a slat synchronization device (21c); and at least one tilting actuation unit (16) comprising: a tilting actuation prong (17) capable of rotating about an axis (17a); and a prong's spring (18) applying force to keep the prong at approximately right angle to the rolling direction of the curtain, such that a prong stop 18a rests against the tilting actuation unit (16), wherein: as the curtain rolls down in a slat closed state, said tilting wing (13) can push the actuation prong (17), overcoming the force of said prong's spring (18), and while the curtain rolls up in a slat closed state, while said tilting wing (13) is just below the prong, said tilting wing (13) engages the prong such that the prong causes said tilting wing to rotate, thus rotating the entire crankshaft-like tilting unit (33a), and causing said slat synchronization device (21) to be pushed down. 23 280916/2

2. The tilting actuation mechanism of Claim 1, wherein as the curtain continues to roll up, said tilting wing (13) can overpass and disengage from the prong, causing a rotation of said tilting wing and the entire crankshaft-like tilting unit (33a) back to the slat closed state, allowing said slat synchronization device (21) to move up.

3. A roller shutter comprising: a shutter curtain (50) made of a plurality of tilting slats (1, 1a, 1b), each terminating with an end-cover for a tilting slat (4) in each end; a first frame and a second frame (6), one at each side of the roller shutter, in which said shutter curtain rolls up and down; a first chain and a second chains (2), each located within the corresponding frame, each comprises a plurality of links (102), for rolling said shutter curtain up or down, wherein each tilting slat (1, 1a, 1b) is pivotally connected at each end to a corresponding link in said first chain and the second chains; a plurality of crankshaft-like tilting units (33), each unit comprising: a cranked axis (12) attached to and rotating with a corresponding end-cover for the tilting slat (4), said cranked axis is configured to rotate within a hole (114) in a corresponding link (102); and a tilting arm (3) connected to said cranked axis (12), so that it is parallel and offset relative to said cranked axis (12), wherein said tilting arm is configured to rotate within a bore (121) in a slat synchronization device (21); at least one slat tilting synchronizer (5A, 5b. 5c) connected to a plurality of the slat synchronization devices (21, 21c) of all said tilting slats (1, 1a, 1b), causing synchronized tilting of said tilting slats; and at least one crankshaft-like tilting unit (33a), connected to at least a first end of the at least one tilting slat, the crankshaft-like tilting unit (33a) comprising: a cranked axis (12) attached to and rotating with said at least one tilting slat, said cranked axis (12) is configured to rotate within a hole in a link of a chain used for rolling up and rolling down the shutter curtain; a tilting wing (13) connected to said cranked axis (12); and 24 280916/2 a tilting arm (3) connected to said cranked axis (12) so that it is parallel and offset relative to said cranked axis (12), wherein said tilting arm is configured to rotate within a bore (121) in a slat synchronization device (21c); and at least one tilting actuation unit (16) connected to said first frame comprising: a tilting actuation prong (17) capable of rotating about an axis (17a) relative to the prong's base (20); and a prong's spring (18) applying force to keep the prong at approximately right angle to the rolling direction of the shutter curtain such that prong stop 18a rests against a tilting actuation unit (16), wherein as the curtain rolls down, in a slat closed state, said tilting wing (13) can push said actuation prong (17), overcoming the force of said prong's spring (18), and while the curtain rolls up in a slat closed state, while said tilting wing (13) is just below the prong, said tilting wing (13) engages the prong such that the prong causes a rotating of said tilting wing, thus rotating the entire crankshaft-like tilting unit (33a), causing said slat synchronization device (21c) to be pushed down, pulling said synchronizer (5A, 5b. 5c), causing synchronized opening of all tilting slats (1, 1b).

4. The roller shutter of Claim 3, wherein as the shutter curtain continues to roll up, said tilting wing (13) can overpass and disengage from the prong, causing a rotating of said tilting wing and the entire crankshaft-like tilting unit (33a) back to the slat closed state, allowing said slat synchronization device (21) to move up, thus moving up said synchronizer (6a, 5b. 5c) causing synchronized tilting of all said tilting slats to said closed state.

5. The roller shutter of Claim 3, wherein said synchronizer is a cable (5b) and said at least one crankshaft-like tilting unit (33a) is connected to the lower tilting slat (1b), and wherein the roller shutter further comprising a cable spring (14) connected between said cable and a link (102a) of said first chain (2), for keeping said cable tight.

6. The roller shutter of Claim 3, wherein said synchronizer is a semi-rigid band (5c). 25 280916/2

7. The roller shutter of Claim 3, wherein said synchronizer is a synchronization chain (5A) made of rigid links (80), each link having two link holes (82), and held together by fitting an end (85) of a tilting arm (3) through said link hole (82) of two adjacent rigid links.

8. The roller shutter of Claim 3, wherein said first frame (6) has an opening (66) allowing said wing (13) of said crankshaft-like tilting unit (33a) to tilt and extend outside frame (6) when the slats are in fully or partially open state.

9. The roller shutter of Claim 8, wherein when said wing (13) of said crankshaft-like tilting unit (33a) is not extended outside frame (6) through opening (66), it is not free to tilt, thus preventing the tilting slats from tilting to a fully or partially open state.

10. The roller shutter of Claim 3, further comprising a plurality of tilting units (33a), all on one side of said shutter curtain (50).

11. The roller shutter of Claim 3, further comprising at least two tilting units (33a), each on a corresponding side of said shutter curtain (50).

12. The roller shutter of Claim 3, wherein said synchronizer is a flexible band.

13. The roller shutter of Claim 12, wherein said flexible band is flat.

14. The roller shutter of Claim 12, wherein said flexible band is having elongated slots (240) for adjustably connecting synchronization devices (21, 21c).

15. The roller shutter of any of Claims 1, 3 and 16, further comprising: a slat stabilizing actuation mechanism comprising: at least one lower stabilizer (71b) to be installed in a lower tilting slat (1b) of the roller shutter, the lower stabilizer comprising: a lower bolt (78b) having a lower pusher (73b) and a pusher (74), said lower bolt free to be moved within the body of said lower stabilizer (71b); 26 280916/2 a stabilizer spring (90) pushing down said lower bolt (78b) such that when said lower pusher (73b) is not pushed, said pusher (74) of said lower bolt (78b) is within the body of said lower stabilizer (71b); and a plurality of stabilizers (71), each to be installed in a tilting slat (1) of the roller shutter, each comprising: a bolt (78) having a pusher (74), said bolt free to be move within the body of said stabilizer (71); and a stabilizer spring (90) pushing down said bolt (78) such that when said bolt (78) is not pushed, said pusher (74) of said bolt (78) is within the body of said lower stabilizer (71), wherein when said lower pusher (73b) is pushed, said pusher (74) of said lower bolt (78b) extends outside the body of said lower stabilizer (71b), pushing on the bolt (78) of the adjacent stabilizer (71), causing said pusher (74) of said adjacent bolt (78) to extend outside the body of said adjacent stabilizer (71).

16. A tilting actuation mechanism for a roller shutter, the roller shutter is having: a curtain having a plurality of tilting slats, each tilting slat is having end-covers; the roller shutter is capable of moving along shutter frames; two chains, each comprises a plurality of links are connecting the tilting salts; a plurality of crankshaft-like tilting units each connected to a corresponding tilting slat and a slat tilting synchronizer for causing synchronized tilting of the tilting slats when actuated by the tilting actuation mechanism, the tilting actuation mechanism comprising: at least one end-cover for tilting slat (4) having a tilting wing to connect to a tilting stat (1, 1b); at least one crankshaft-like tilting unit (33) comprising: a cranked axis (12) attached to and rotating with said at least one end-cover for tilting slat (4), said cranked axis is configured to rotate within a hole in the chain link (114) in a link (102) of a chain (2) used for rolling up and rolling down the curtain (50); and 27 280916/2 a tilting arm (3) connected to said cranked axis (12) so that it is parallel and offset relative to said cranked axis (12), said tilting arm is configured to rotate within a bore (121) in a slat synchronization device (21c); and at least one tilting actuation unit (16) comprising: a tilting actuation prong (17) capable of rotating about an axis (17a); and a prong's spring (18) applying force to keep the prong at approximately right angle to the rolling direction of the shutter curtain, such that prong stop 18a rests against tilting actuation unit 16, wherein: as the shutter curtain rolls down in a slat closed state, said tilting wing (13) can push said actuation prong (17), overcoming the force of said prong's spring (18), and while the curtain rolls up in a slat closed state, while said tilting wing (13) is just below said prong, said tilting wing (13) engages said prong such that said prong causes said tilting wing to rotate, thus rotating the entire crankshaft-like tilting unit (33a), and causing said slat synchronization device (21) to be pushed down. 28