ES2834643T3 - Parasol apparatus and method for its use - Google Patents

Abstract

A parasol apparatus (1) comprising: - a plurality of slats (2), each of which is inclined around a respective longitudinal axis and has first and second ends operatively coupled to a first and second lateral guide, configured to guide the slats (2) along a direction of movement; - a connection mechanism (7) configured to connect the slats (2) and rotate them about their respective longitudinal axes; - a lifting shaft (6), connected to the last or lowest slat, distal of the lifting shaft, to allow the slats, which are connected to each other by the connecting mechanism, to move in the direction of movement when the lifting shaft is rotated; - a lifting element (9) connected to the last slat (2a), distal of the lifting shaft (6), to move the slats (2) in the direction of movement when the lifting shaft 6 is rotated; - a connection structure for connecting the lifting element (9) to the last slat; - an inclination pulley (11) connected to the connection mechanism (7), to actuate it in order to modify the inclination of the slats (2), and operatively connected to the lifting shaft (6) by means of a clutch (14), so that a rotation of the lift axis in a first direction causes the tilt pulley to rotate to a maximum or minimum tilt configuration of the slats and a further rotation of the lift axis in the first direction causes the tilt pulley to rotate. slide on the clutch, characterized in that Z said lifting shaft is coupled to a motor (6) and said sunshade apparatus comprises a stop device to stop the motor (13), and an activation element, configured to activate the stop device to inhibit the operation of the motor (13), in which the connection structure defines a free space, along the direction of movement, between the lifting element (9) and the last slat (2a), so that the last The blade (2a) can be moved between a first and a second position along the direction of movement, with respect to a section of the lifting element (9) to which it is connected, in order to activate the activating element Z.

Description

DESCRIPTION

Parasol apparatus and method for its use

Technical field

This invention relates to a sun visor apparatus and a method for its use.

The present invention relates to the sector of sunshade devices, devices made up of slat blinds made up of a plurality of sunshade elements (or slats) configured to protect a room from sunlight in such a way as to allow the amount of light to be controlled. entering the room where a parasol apparatus is installed.

As used herein, the term "parasol apparatus" denotes a Venetian blind, that is, an apparatus provided with horizontal slats that can be oriented horizontally. Venetian blinds can be retracted by lifting and stacking the slats.

Background of the technique

These sunshade apparatuses are configured to move the louvers of the sunshade in such a way as to vary their spacing. Typically, sunshade devices are also configured to vary the slat inclination to dynamically adapt the sunshade to the climatic conditions and to the light in different seasons, which allows savings in terms of energy spent on cooling (in summer, protecting the facades of buildings or inside rooms from exposure to direct sunlight) and heating (in winter, by reducing heat loss). The slats usually have an elongated shape in one direction and their inclination is varied by turning each slat around its longitudinal axis.

Generally, the sunshade apparatuses of the prior art are retractable, that is, they can adopt intermediate configurations between a retracted configuration (where the distance between the axes of rotation of the slats is minimal, the slats are retracted and their overall dimensions are minimized) and an extended configuration (where the distance between the slats' rotation axes is maximum).

These sunshade apparatuses are also provided with a pair of opposite side guides (a first and a second side guide) configured to guide the slats. For each slat, a first end is coupled to the first side guide and a second end is coupled to the second side guide, to guide the slat in a direction of movement (said movement is essentially a translational movement).

Such sunshade apparatuses comprise a connecting mechanism (or pantograph), typically a ladder-shaped support structure configured to connect the slats to each other and rotate them about their longitudinal axes. In other words, the pantograph connects the slats to each other and defines the distance between the slats' axes of rotation and is configured to allow simultaneous adjustment of the slat blind.

These sunshade apparatuses generally comprise a lifting shaft coupled to a motor and configured to move and orient the slats of the sunshade apparatus.

The lifting shaft has a lifting pulley that is coupled to a lifting element: for example, a lifting chain. The lifting chain is connected to at least one slat, usually the distal slat remote from the lifting axis (ie the last or lowest slat), to move the slats in the direction of movement. From the collected configuration, moving the last slat away from the lifting shaft in the direction of movement when the lifting shaft is rotated in an extended direction of rotation causes the other slats, connected by means of the pantograph, to be dragged along with it. and are increasingly spaced and further apart until the sunshade apparatus reaches the extended configuration.

Prior art sunshade apparatuses can have a lifting element in an open or closed loop configuration. In a sun visor apparatus with an open loop lifting member, the lifting member has a first end and a second end. The first end is usually connected to the last slat, while the second end is connected to a counterweight that balances the total weight of the slats. An example of a slat apparatus comprising an open loop lifting element is described in patent document US4324284A.

In a sunshade apparatus with a closed loop lifting element, the lifting element is coupled to a first and second lifting pulley, one of which is connected to the lifting shaft. To move the slats in the direction of movement when the lifting shaft is rotated, the lifting element is usually connected to the last slat. An example of a sun visor apparatus comprising a closed loop lifting chain is described in patent document EP1936102B1.

Other examples of sun visor apparatus are disclosed in patent documents DE2034321 and WO2011 / 099078. The pantograph is usually coupled to the lifting shaft by means of a tilt element: for example, a tilt chain. Typically, the tilt member is attached to the pantograph at points close to the elevation axis. The coupling between the tilt chain and the lift shaft generally comprises a second pulley (or tilt pulley), or a balance element, mounted on the lift shaft.

It should be noted that the lifting axis has the dual function both of imparting the movement, by means of the lifting chain, by means of which the slats are driven in the direction of movement, and of varying the slat inclination by means of the inclination element. connected to the pantograph. This can cause various problems. For example, patent document US4324284A describes a sun visor apparatus with an open loop lifting element, where the inclination element is connected to a rocker located on the lifting axis. On transitioning from the retracted configuration to the extended configuration, the rocker is immediately rotated until it reaches a predetermined angular position where the rocker stops. The predetermined angular position corresponds to a predetermined slat inclination. When the extended configuration is reached, a further rotation of the lift shaft in the extension direction activates a release mechanism that disengages the rocker and allows further rotation of the slats to a closed configuration, where the slats form a substantially flat surface .

The release mechanism, described in patent document CH565935, comprises a pin that secures the rocker when the predetermined angular position is reached. When the extended configuration is reached, a limit stop element, included in the lift chain, actuates a lever that triggers the pin, thus releasing the rocker arm and allowing the slats to close.

However, the solution described above has some disadvantages.

For example, slat slanting beyond the predetermined angular position is allowed only after the sunshade apparatus has reached the extended configuration, where the release mechanism is activated by the limit stop element. The same applies to slat closing, which is only possible in the extended configuration. This limits the flexibility of the sun visor.

Furthermore, the complexity of the release mechanism limits the reliability of the sun visor described in patent document US4324284A, the complete closure of which depends entirely on the action of the limit stop element that disengages the pin.

Some prior art parasol apparatus comprise a connecting structure - for example, a lift carriage - to connect the lifting element to the last slat and allow the parasol apparatus to go from the retracted configuration to the extended configuration. In an example mentioned in patent document US4324284A, the elevator carriage comprises first and second parts separated by a spring. When the extended configuration is reached, the lift carriage comes into contact with a limit stop member. A new rotation of the lifting shaft in the extension direction causes the spring to compress until the first and second parts of the lifting carriage join together, guaranteeing the contact of the last slat on a support surface and preventing the slats from being raised manually ( in other words, constituting an anti-theft system). The security of the anti-theft system, however, depends on the spring that separates the first and second parts of the elevator car and whose rigidity and reliability decrease due to mechanical fatigue caused by frequent use.

Disclosure of the invention

The object of this invention is to provide a sun visor apparatus and a method for its use to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art mentioned above.

More specifically, this invention aims to provide a sun visor apparatus and a method for its use that are particularly simple and reliable.

Another object of this invention is to provide a sun visor apparatus and a method for its use that are particularly safe and robust.

These objects are fully achieved by the sunshade apparatus of this invention, as characterized in the appended claims.

More specifically, the sunscreen apparatus according to the invention comprises a plurality of slats, preferably elongated in one direction.

Each slat can be inclined around its longitudinal axis, preferably parallel to the direction in which the slat is elongated. Preferably, the longitudinal axes of the slats are parallel to each other.

Each slat has first and second ends that are operatively coupled to a first and second lateral guide, configured to guide the slats along a direction of movement (translation). Preferably, the direction of movement is perpendicular to the longitudinal axes of the slats.

It should be noted that, in this description, the distance between the sunshade slats is the distance between the axes of rotation of the slats themselves.

The sunshade apparatus comprises a connecting mechanism (or pantograph) configured to connect the slats together and rotate them about their longitudinal axes. Preferably, the connecting mechanism is a ladder-shaped structure.

The umbrella apparatus also comprises a lifting shaft coupled to a motor. Preferably, the axis of rotation of the lifting axis is parallel to the longitudinal axes of the slats.

It should be noted that the umbrella apparatus is made up of two mirror symmetrical parts, both connected to the lifting axis: the first part is connected to the first end of the slats and the second part is connected to the second end of the slats. For brevity, this description applies to the first part, it being understood that the second part is constructively similar (mirror symmetric), unless otherwise specified. Preferably, the first and second parts are driven by the same lift axis.

A first lifting pulley is mounted on the lifting shaft. A second lifting pulley, connected to the frame and idle, is coupled to the lifting pulley by means of a lifting element - for example, a cable, a belt or, preferably, a lifting chain - in a closed-loop configuration. .

The lifting shaft is connected to the last or lowest slat, distal of the lifting shaft. This connection allows the slats, which are connected to each other by the connecting mechanism, to move in the direction of movement when the lifting shaft is rotated.

The sunshade apparatus according to the invention is configured to adopt intermediate configurations between a retracted configuration (where the spacing of the slats is minimal, the slats are retracted and their overall dimensions are minimized) and an extended configuration (where the spacing of the slats is minimized). slats is at its maximum).

In an exemplary embodiment, the umbrella apparatus comprises a tilt pulley connected to the connecting mechanism to drive it to modify the tilt of the slats. The tilt pulley is operatively connected to the lift shaft by means of a clutch, so that a rotation of the lift shaft in a first direction causes the tilt pulley to rotate to a maximum or minimum slat tilt configuration and a Further rotation of the lift shaft in the first direction causes the camber pulley to slip on the clutch.

It should be noted that this solution allows the slat inclination to be varied easily and reliably when the sunshade adopts any intermediate configuration between the retracted configuration and the extended configuration.

In an exemplary embodiment, in the retracted configuration of the sunshade apparatus, the slats are in the maximum tilt configuration (or open configuration) where at least a portion of a surface defined by the slat lies in a plane substantially perpendicular to the direction of movement. In a configuration of minimum inclination (or closed configuration), at least a portion of the surface defined by the slat lies in a plane belonging to a beam of planes generated by the direction of movement. It should be noted that the maximum and minimum slat tilt settings are essentially arbitrary. In the illustrated example, in the minimum tilt configuration the slats lie in substantially horizontal parallel planes, while in the maximum tilt configuration the slats lie in a substantially vertical plane. In this example, the slats, when going from the minimum tilt to the maximum tilt configuration, rotate approximately 90 degrees. However, slat rotations at different angles - for example greater than 90 degrees - can also be imagined between the minimum and maximum tilt settings. Preferably, the tilt pulley is inactive relative to the lift axis and is connected to the first lift pulley through the clutch interposed between the tilt pulley and the first lift pulley. Preferably, the clutch comprises an annular friction element that defines at least one contact surface perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the lift axis. In an exemplary embodiment, the sunshade apparatus comprises a coupling spring configured to bias the camber pulley against the annular friction element. In other words, the coupling spring is configured to apply pressure to at least one contact surface.

In an exemplary embodiment, the sunshade apparatus comprises a travel limit stop member that rotates as one with the camber pulley. The travel limit stop member is configured to stop the rotation of the camber pulley when at least a predetermined angular travel limit position is reached. Preferably, the travel limit stop member is configured to stop the rotation of the tilt pulley when at least two predetermined angular travel limit positions are reached: a first angular travel limit position, corresponding to the tilt configuration slat maximum and a second angular travel limit position, corresponding to the minimum slat inclination setting.

Preferably, a rotation of the lifting axis in an extended rotational direction causes a movement of the slats in the direction of movement, between a retracted configuration and an extended configuration, and causes a corresponding rotation of the slats about their longitudinal axes in the closing turn direction, from maximum tilt setting to minimum tilt setting.

Preferably, the lifting shaft is coupled to the motor to rotate at a first speed, in a condition of driving the lifting shaft on the tilt pulley, and at a second speed greater than the first, in a sliding condition of the pulley of inclination relative to the elevation axis.

It should be noted that this solution allows the slat inclination to be varied in a simple and precise way.

In an exemplary embodiment, the sunshade apparatus comprises a connecting structure for connecting the lifting element to the last slat. Preferably, the sunshade apparatus comprises a motor stop device and an actuating element configured to activate the stop device to inhibit operation of the motor. Preferably, the motor is controlled via an electronic card. The electronic card is connected to the stop device. Preferably, the electronic card is programmed to maintain the engine in an inhibited state for a predetermined period of time in response to a stop signal from the stop device. In an example embodiment, the electronic card is programmed to restart the motor in the reverse direction (eg, toward the slat pickup configuration) at the end of the predetermined period of time. Preferably, the connecting structure defines a clearance, along the direction of movement, between the lifting member and the last slat, so that the last slat can move between a first and a second position along the direction of the movement, with respect to a section of the lifting element to which it is connected, to activate the activation element. Preferably, the activating element is movable between a deactivated configuration and an active configuration in response to relative movement of the last slat with respect to the lifting element in the direction of picking up the plurality of slats.

Preferably, the connecting structure comprises a lifting carriage fixed to the last slat and movably connected to the lifting element to define the aforementioned free space.

In an example embodiment, the stop device comprises an emitter and a receiver that define an optical path. The activation element, when changing from the deactivated configuration to the active configuration, interrupts the optical path to inhibit the operation of the motor. Preferably, the emitter and receiver are in fixed positions with respect to the first and second lateral guides, aligned along the direction of movement and separated by a distance that is greater than or equal to the distance between the first and second lifting pulleys. second. It should be noted that this solution increases the safety of the sunshade apparatus, stopping the movement of the slats in the event of a relative movement of the last slat with respect to the lifting element in the pick-up direction, caused for example by slats colliding with an obstacle.

In an exemplary embodiment, the sunshade apparatus comprises a proximity sensor configured to detect the presence of the last or lowest louver at a travel limit position, distal of the lift axis, corresponding to the extended configuration of the shroud apparatus. parasol. Preferably, the stop device is connected to the proximity sensor to avoid inhibiting the motor when the sunshade apparatus adopts the extended configuration.

Preferably, the proximity sensor is connected to an anti-theft alarm system configured to go into operation in the event of an attempt to move the slats manually.

In an exemplary embodiment, the lifting element has an active half-loop, to which the last slat is connected, and a passive half-loop. The active half-loop has a first section included between the first lifting pulley, connected to the last slat by means of the connection structure, and a connection zone of the lifting element. The first section of the active half-loop is tensioned by the weight of the slats when the last slat is in the first position mentioned above with respect to the lifting element. A second section of the active half-loop, included between the second lifting pulley and the connection zone of the lifting element, is tensioned by the motor when the last slat is in the second position mentioned above with respect to the lifting element.

It should be noted that this solution allows the opposite manual movement of the sunshade slats and, therefore, constitutes a simple and effective anti-theft system.

According to a further aspect of this description, a method of using a sunshade apparatus is also defined comprising a lifting shaft connected to a motor and kinematically connected to a plurality of slats, pivoted around their longitudinal axes to bent between a minimum tilt configuration and a maximum tilt configuration, and coupled to a first and second lateral guide to move along a direction of movement between a retracted configuration and an extended configuration. The method comprises the following steps:

- move the slats between the collected configuration and the extended configuration;

- tilting the slats between the minimum and maximum inclination configurations, by means of a tilting pulley, in which a rotation of the lifting axis in an extended direction of rotation causes the slats to move towards the extended configuration and the slat inclination towards the minimum tilt configuration or, vice versa, maximum, and a rotation of the lift axis in a pick-up rotation direction causes movement of the slats towards the retracted configuration and the slat inclination towards the maximum inclination configuration or, vice versa, minimal;

- simultaneously move and incline the slats, until reaching the minimum or maximum slat inclination setting, with the lifting axis driving the inclination pulley;

- move the slats without varying the inclination, when the slats are in the minimum or maximum inclination configuration and the movement is towards the extended or retracted configuration, respectively, or vice versa, in which the rotation of the lifting axis makes the pulley tilt slide relative to the lift axis.

More specifically, if the sunshade apparatus comprises an actuating element configured to inhibit the operation of the motor, the method of using the sunshade apparatus comprises a step of inhibiting the operation of the motor in response to relative movement of the last slat with respect to to the lifting member along the direction of movement in the pick-up direction of the plurality of slats.

Preferably, the inhibit step comprises stopping the engine for a predetermined period of time. In an exemplary embodiment, the inhibit step is followed (after the predetermined period of time) by a step of restarting the motor, preferably in the direction of rotation opposite to its direction before stopping. Preferably, the step of moving the slats between the retracted configuration and the extended configuration corresponds to a first angle of rotation of the lift axis, and the step of tilting the slats between the maximum and minimum inclination configurations corresponds to a second angle of rotation. lift shaft. Preferably, the second angle of rotation is less than the first angle of rotation by at least one order of magnitude. In accordance with an example embodiment, this description provides a method of using a sun visor apparatus. More specifically, the sunshade apparatus is an apparatus comprising a plurality of slats coupled to a first and second guide to move along a direction of movement between a retracted configuration and an extended configuration. The sunshade apparatus comprises a lifting shaft that is connected to a motor, and a lifting element directed in a closed loop around a first pulley connected to the lifting shaft and around a second pulley. The lifting shaft is coupled to the last or lowest slat, distal of the lifting shaft.

The method comprises the following steps:

- prepare a connecting structure that defines a free space, along the direction of movement, between the lifting element and the last slat, so that the last slat can move between a first and a second position along the direction of movement, with respect to a section of lifting element to which it is connected;

- activating an activation element in response to a movement of the last slat from the first to the second position in a direction towards the lifting axis;

- stop and inhibit the motor in response to the activation action.

Preferably, the activation step of the activation element involves interrupting an optical path parallel to the direction of movement. More specifically, if the sunshade apparatus comprises an emitter and a receiver, the optical path is generated between the emitter and the receiver that are located in fixed positions with respect to the first and second lateral guides, and separated by a greater or equal distance. to the distance between the first and second lifting pulleys.

If the sunshade apparatus comprises a proximity sensor, the method of using a sunshade apparatus comprises the following additional steps:

- detecting the presence of the last or the lowest slat in a position of the limit of travel, distal of the elevation axis, corresponding to the extended configuration of the sun visor apparatus;

- inverting the logic of the stop device to prevent the motor from being inhibited when the sunshade apparatus adopts the extended configuration independently of the activation of the activation element.

Brief description of the drawings

This and other characteristics of the invention will become more apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment thereof, illustrated only by way of non-limiting example in the accompanying drawings, in which:

- Figure 1 is a perspective view, with some parts cut away in order to better illustrate others, showing a sun visor apparatus according to a first embodiment of the invention;

- Figure 2 shows a section of the sunshade apparatus of Figure 1, in a front view, with some parts cut away in order to better illustrate others, with the slats in the maximum inclination configuration;

- Figure 3 shows a side view of the parasol apparatus of Figure 2, with some parts cut away in order to better illustrate others;

- Figure 4 shows the parasol apparatus of Figure 2 through the section labeled IV-IV in Figure 2, with some parts cut away in order to better illustrate others;

- Figure 5 shows a section of the parasol apparatus of Figure 1, in a front view, with some parts cut away in order to better illustrate others, with the slats in the configuration of minimum inclination;

- Figure 6 shows a side view of the parasol apparatus of Figure 5, with some parts cut away in order to better illustrate others;

- Figure 7 shows the parasol apparatus of Figure 5 through the section labeled VII-VN in Figure 5;

- Figure 8 shows the parasol apparatus of Figure 3, with the activation element in the active configuration.

Detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the invention.

With reference to the accompanying drawings, number 1 denotes a sun visor apparatus in accordance with this description.

More specifically, the sunshade apparatus 1 according to the invention comprises a plurality of sunshade slats 2 (or slats 2), which form a slatted blind. Preferably, the slats 2 are elongated in a longitudinal direction.

The sunshade apparatus 1 is configured to separate the sunshade slats 2 from each other and vary their inclination. Preferably, the inclination of the slat 2 is varied by rotating the slat 2 about the longitudinal axis. Even more preferably, the longitudinal axes of the slats 2 that form the grid screen are parallel to each other. It should be noted that, in this description, the spacing between the sunshade slats 2 is the spacing between the axes of rotation of the slats 2 themselves.

The sunshade apparatus 1 is configured to adopt intermediate configurations between a retracted configuration (where the spacing of the slats 2 is minimal, the slats 2 are retracted and their overall dimensions are minimized) and an extended configuration (where the spacing of the slats 2 is maximum).

Each slat 2 has first and second ends that are operatively coupled to a first and second side guide, respectively. The first and second side guides are configured to guide the slats 2 along a direction of movement (translation).

It should be noted that the parasol apparatus 1 is made up of two mirror symmetrical parts: the first part is connected to the first end of the slats 2 and the second part is connected to the second end of the slats 2. For the sake of brevity, this Description applies to the first part, it being understood that the second part is constructively similar (mirror symmetric), unless otherwise specified.

The sunshade apparatus 1 comprises a connection mechanism 7 (or pantograph 7 ⁾ configured to connect the slats 2 together and rotate them about their longitudinal axes. Preferably, the connecting mechanism 7 is a ladder-shaped supporting structure.

The connecting mechanism 7 comprises a plurality of levers 7a that are coupled to each other to rotate relative to each other. The pantograph 7 is configured to connect the slats 2 to each other and to define their spacing. The pantograph 7 is also configured to allow the slat 2 inclination to be adjusted simultaneously.

The connection mechanism 7 comprises a plurality of movement elements 4 by which the slats 2 move and, in use, each of the elements 4 is integrally coupled to one end of a slat 2. The coupling between an element 4 of Movement and one end of the slat 2 is preferably achieved by means of a securing element 23 configured to secure the slat 2 to the movement element 4. Preferably, each slat 2 comprises at least one guide 5, integral with slat 2. Guide 5 extends along a longitudinal direction. The securing element 23 can be slidably coupled to the at least one guide 5 so that it can be moved along the longitudinal direction between a position of non-interference with the respective movement element 4 and an engagement position where it is secured to the respective movement element 4.

Preferably, the securing elements 23 are removably coupled to the at least one guide 5. Preferably, each of the securing elements 23 for securing the slat 2 is provided with a projection configured to engage the at least one guide. 5. Even more preferably, each securing element 23 is provided with securing means for securing the respective movement element 4, configured to allow the securing element 23 to be permanently attached to the respective movement element 4 in a longitudinal securing direction. , and comprising at least one tooth that is elastically deformable during coupling to the respective movement element 4 in the aforementioned securing position.

In the collected configuration, the slats are in the maximum inclination configuration (or open configuration) where at least a portion of a surface defined by the slat 2 lies in a plane substantially perpendicular to the direction of movement. In a configuration of minimum inclination (or closed configuration), at least a portion of a surface defined by the slat 2 lies in a plane belonging to a bundle of planes generated by the direction of movement.

The sunshade apparatus 1 comprises a lifting shaft 6 coupled to a motor 13.

Preferably, the first and second parts that make up the sunshade apparatus 1 are driven by the same lifting axis. Preferably, the axis of rotation of the lifting axis is perpendicular to the direction of movement and parallel to the longitudinal axes of the slats.

A first lifting pulley 8 is coupled to the lifting shaft 6 and is connected to a second lifting pulley 8a by means of a lifting element 9 - for example, a cable, a belt or, preferably, a lifting chain - at a closed loop configuration. The lifting element 9 is connected to at least one slat 2. Preferably, the lifting element 9 is connected to the slat that is distal of the lifting axis 6 (ie the last or lowest slat 2a), to move the slats 2 in the direction of movement when the lift shaft 6 is rotated.

In passing from the retracted configuration to the extended configuration, the lifting axis 6 rotates in an extended direction of rotation to move the last slat 2a, and the slats 2 connected to it by the connecting mechanism 7, along the direction of movement, away from the axis 6 of elevation.

In passing from the extended configuration to the retracted configuration, the lifting shaft 6 rotates in a pick-up rotation direction to move the last slat 2a, and the slats 2 connected to it by means of the connecting mechanism 7, along the direction of movement, towards the lifting axis 6. Rotation of the lift axis 6 in the extended rotation direction causes the last slat 2a to move from a first travel limit position, close to the lift axis 6, to a second travel limit position, distal from the axis. 6 elevation. It should be noted that, in the extended configuration, the slats 2 are located at a maximum distance allowed by the connection mechanism 7.

Preferably, the second lifting pulley 8a is located in the vicinity of the second stroke limit position of the last slat 2a.

The parasol apparatus 1 comprises an inclination pulley 11, connected to the connection mechanism 7 to drive it in order to modify the inclination of the slats. The camber pulley 11 is coupled to the connecting mechanism 7 by means of a camber element 12 - for example, a cable, a belt or, preferably, a camber chain. Preferably, the tilt member 12 is attached to the connecting mechanism 7 at points proximal to the elevation axis 6.

The tilt pulley 11 is operatively connected to the lift shaft 6 by means of a clutch 14, so that a rotation of the lift shaft 6 in a first direction causes the tilt pulley 11 to rotate to a maximum or minimum tilt configuration. slats 2. A new rotation of the lift shaft 6 in the first direction causes the tilt pulley 11 to slide on the clutch 14.

Preferably, the tilt pulley 11 is inactive relative to the lift axis 6 and is connected to the first lift pulley 8 through the clutch 14 interposed between the tilt pulley 11 and the first lift pulley 8.

Preferably, the clutch 14 comprises an annular friction element that defines at least one contact surface perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of rotation of the lift axis. In an exemplary embodiment, the sunshade apparatus 1 comprises a coupling spring 22 configured to bias the camber pulley 11 against the annular friction element. In other words, the coupling spring 22 is configured to apply pressure to at least one contact surface.

In an exemplary embodiment, the sunshade apparatus 1 comprises a travel limit stop element 15 (or tooth 15), which rotates as one with the tilt pulley 11. The travel limit stop element 15 is configured to stop the rotation of the tilt pulley 11 when at least a predetermined angular travel limit position is reached.

Preferably, the travel limit stop element 15 is configured to stop the rotation of the tilt pulley 11 when at least two predetermined angular travel limit positions are reached: a first angular travel limit position, corresponding to the configuration maximum inclination of the slats 2 and a second position of the angular travel limit, corresponding to the minimum inclination setting of the slats 2.

In the specific embodiment illustrated, a rotation of the lift shaft 6 in a first direction causes the stroke limit stop element 15, integral with the tilt pulley 11, to move to an angular stroke limit position where it is prevented further rotation of the tilt pulley 11 in the first direction.

When the rotation of the tilt pulley 11 is prevented, the clutch 14 generates a slip that allows the lift pulley 8 to continue to rotate without actuating the tilt pulley 11, thus preventing excessive stress from being applied to the tooth 15 which has reached an angular travel limit position.

A movement of the slats 2 between the retracted configuration and the extended configuration corresponds to a first angle of rotation of the lifting axis 6. A change in the inclination of the slats 2 between the maximum and minimum inclination settings of the slats 2 corresponds to a second angle of rotation of the elevation axis 6. Preferably, the second angle of rotation is less than the first angle of rotation by at least one order of magnitude.

In the specific embodiment illustrated, in the retracted configuration, the slats 2 are retracted and arranged in the maximum inclination configuration. In other words, in the collected configuration, the slats 2 adopt the open configuration. Tooth 15 is in a first angular travel limit position. A rotation of the lifting shaft 6 in the extended rotation direction causes the rotation of the inclination pulley 11 and the tooth 15 connected thereto. Preferably, a rotation of the tilt pulley 11 by an angle less than or equal to a full angle causes the tooth to move from the first to the second predetermined angular stroke limit position, corresponding to the closed configuration of the slats 2. Even more preferably, a rotation of the tilt pulley 11 at an angle less than or equal to a plane angle causes the tooth to move from the first to the second predetermined angular stroke limit position, corresponding to the closed configuration of the slats. 2. Thanks to the clutch 14, a further rotation of the lifting shaft 6 in the extended rotation direction causes only the slats 2, which are in the closed configuration, to move away from the lifting shaft 6 in the direction of movement.

When the sunshade apparatus 1 is in the extended configuration and the slats 2 are in the closed configuration, the tooth 15 is in the second limit position. A rotation of the lifting shaft 6 and of the first lifting pulley 8 in the pick-up rotation direction causes the inclination pulley 11 to rotate and thus the inclination of the slats 2 changes from the closed configuration to the open configuration.

It should be noted that, in the specific embodiment illustrated, a rotation of the lifting axis 6 through an angle equal to a plane angle corresponds to the passage of the slats 2 from the closed configuration to the open configuration (and vice versa), causing a movement limited, almost imperceptible, of the slats 2 along the direction defined by the lateral guides. This allows, both in the extended configuration and in any intermediate configuration between the extended configuration and the retracted configuration, to change the inclination of the slats 2 with only an imperceptible movement of the slats 2 in the direction of movement.

When the slats 2 reach the open configuration, the tooth 15 is in the first angular travel limit position and, thanks to the clutch 14, an additional rotation of the lifting axis 6 and of the lifting pulley 8 in the direction of rotation The pick-ups cause only the slats 2, which are in the open configuration, to move towards the lift axis 6 along the direction of movement. Preferably, the lifting shaft 6 is coupled to the motor 13 to rotate at a first speed, in a driving condition of the lifting shaft 6 on the tilt pulley 11, and at a second speed greater than the first, in a sliding condition. of the tilt pulley 11 with respect to the elevation axis 6.

In an exemplary embodiment, the sunshade apparatus 1 comprises a connection structure for connecting the lifting element 9 to the last slat 2a. The connecting structure defines a free space, along the direction of movement, between the lifting element 9 and the last slat 2a, so that the last slat 2a can be moved between a first and a second end position along of the direction of movement, with respect to a section of the lifting element 9 to which it is connected.

Preferably, the connecting structure comprises a lifting carriage 10, fixed to the last slat 2a and movably connected to the lifting element 9 to define the aforementioned free space. In an exemplary embodiment, the lifting carriage 10 is fixed to the lifting element 9 and movably connected to the last slat 2a to define the aforementioned free space.

In the first final position, or running position, the lifting carriage 10 supports the weight of the slats 2, and its coupling with the lifting element 9 produces a force that puts under tension a first section of the included lifting element 9, in the direction of extension, between the first lifting pulley 8 and the connection point between the lifting carriage 10 and the lifting element 9. In the second end position, or stop position, the coupling between the lifting carriage 10 and the lifting element 9 places under tension (due to the effect of the motor 13) a second section of the lifting element 9, complementary to the first section and included , in the pick-up direction, between the first lifting pulley 8 and the connection point between the lifting carriage 10 and the lifting element 9.

In the specific embodiment illustrated, the lifting carriage 10 comprises an actuating element configured to inhibit the operation of the motor. Preferably, the activating element is movable between a deactivated configuration and an active configuration in response to relative movement of the last slat 2a with respect to the lifting element 10 in the pick-up direction.

In the specific embodiment illustrated, the sun visor apparatus 1 comprises an optical stop device. Preferably, the optical stop device comprises an emitter 17 and a receiver 18, defining an optical path 19. Preferably, the activation element, when changing from the deactivated configuration to the active configuration, interrupts the optical path 19 to inhibit the operation of the motor 13. Preferably, receiver 18 is connected to an electronic card 24 configured to inhibit motor operation. 13. Preferably, the emitter 17 and the receiver 18 are aligned along the direction of movement at fixed positions with respect to a frame 3 of the sunshade apparatus 1. Even more preferably, the emitter 17 and the receiver 18 are separated, in the direction of movement, by a distance that is greater than or equal to the distance between the first limit position of the last slat 2a and the second limit position of race of the last lama 2nd.

In the specific embodiment illustrated, the lifting element 9 comprises a bolt 16 inserted in an oval hole 10a made on the carriage 10. A relative movement of the carriage 10 with respect to the lifting element 9 in the pick-up direction causes the pin 16 , which is connected to the lifting element 9, go from the running position to the stop position which are defined by the oval hole 10a. Preferably, the oval hole 10a is elongated in a direction parallel to the direction of movement.

Preferably, the sunshade apparatus 1 also comprises a return spring (not illustrated), operatively interposed between the connecting frame and the last slat, to bias the connecting frame (ie, the carriage) towards the lifting axis.

In the specific embodiment illustrated, the emitter 17 is a source of electromagnetic radiation (eg laser or infrared), connected to the frame 3 in the vicinity of the second stroke limit position of the last slat 2a. The receiver 18, aligned with the emitter 17 in a direction parallel to the direction of movement, is connected to the frame 3 in the vicinity of the elevation axis 6.

The pin 16, which connects the lifting element 9 to the lifting carriage 10, is connected to a stop lever 20. The stop lever 20, which pivots on the lifting carriage 10, is configured to rotate from the deactivated configuration to the active configuration, corresponding respectively to the running position and the stop position occupied by the pin 16 in the hole. 10th oval.

During the movement of the slats 2 of the sunshade apparatus 1 from the retracted configuration to the extended configuration, or vice versa, the stop lever 20 assumes the deactivated configuration. The pin 16 occupies the running position and supports the weight of the slats 2, keeping the first section of the lifting element 9 under tension.

If a slat 2 of the sunshade apparatus 1 collides with an obstacle, the resulting relative movement of the lifting carriage 10 with respect to the lifting element 9 in the pick-up direction causes the pin 16 to move to the stop position.

Movement of the pin 16 to the stop position pushes the stop lever 20 to the active position, where it interrupts the optical path 19 defined between the emitting device 17 and the receiving device 18. The interruption of the optical path 19 causes the motor 13 coupled to the lifting shaft 6 to stop.

Preferably, the sunshade apparatus 1 comprises a proximity sensor 21 configured to detect the distance of the last slat 2a from the second travel limit position where the sunshade apparatus 1 assumes the extended configuration.

When the last slat 2a reaches the second stroke limit position, a further rotation of the lift shaft 6 causes the pin 16 to move from the run position to the stop position. In the second stroke limit position of the last slat, further movement of the lift carriage 10 away from the lift axis is prevented. A further rotation of the lifting shaft 6 in the extended rotation direction causes the pin 16, which is connected to the lifting element 9, to move from the stroke position to the stop position, thus interrupting the optical path 19 by means of of stop lever 20.

The proximity sensor 21 is configured to detect when the last slat 2a reaches the second stroke limit position and invert the logic of the optical stop device. In other words, when the extended configuration is reached, the interruption of the optical path 19 does not inhibit the operation of the motor 13. The motor 13, remaining coupled, maintains the second section of the lifting element 9, between the first lifting pulley 8 and the pin 16 in the tension pick-up direction, thus opposing the manual movement of the sunshade apparatus 1.

Preferably, the proximity sensor 21 is fixed relative to the frame 3 in the vicinity of the second stroke limit position of the last slat 2a.

The sunshade apparatus 1 according to the invention comprises an alarm device connected to the proximity sensor 21. The alarm device is activated when the proximity sensor 21 detects an attempt to manually move the sun visor device 1.

Preferably, the sun visor apparatus 1 comprises a first and second stop optical device associated with the first and second part of the sun visor apparatus 1, respectively.

According to a further aspect of this description, a method of using a sunshade apparatus 1 is also defined in which a rotation of the lifting axis 6 in the extended rotation direction causes movement of the slats 2 towards the extended configuration. and inclination of the slats 2 towards the minimum inclination configuration or, vice versa, maximum, and a rotation of the lifting axis 6 in a pick-up rotation direction causes the slats 2 to move towards the retracted configuration and the slat inclination towards the maximum incline setting or, vice versa, minimum. The method comprises the following steps:

- move the slats 2 between the retracted configuration and the extended configuration;

- tilt the slats 2 between the minimum and maximum inclination settings, using the inclination pulley 11, - move and at the same time tilt the slats 2, until reaching the minimum or maximum inclination configuration of the slats 2, with axis 6 lifting driven tilt pulley 11;

- move the slats 2 without changing their inclination, when the slats 2 are in the configuration of minimum or maximum inclination and the movement is towards the extended or retracted configuration, respectively, or vice versa, in which the rotation of the lifting axis 6 causes that the tilt pulley 11 slides with respect to the elevation axis 6. Preferably, the method of using the sunshade apparatus 1 comprises a step of inhibiting the operation of the motor 13, in response to a relative movement of the last slat 2a with respect to the lifting element 9 along the direction of movement, in the pick-up address.

Preferably, the step of moving the slats 2 between the retracted configuration and the extended configuration corresponds to a first angle of rotation of the lifting axis 6 and the step of tilting the slats 2 between the minimum and maximum inclination configurations corresponds to a second angle. of rotation of the lifting axis 6. The second angle of rotation is smaller than the first angle of rotation by at least one order of magnitude.

Claims (15)

1. A parasol apparatus (1) comprising: - a plurality of slats (2), each of which is inclined about a respective longitudinal axis and has first and second ends operatively coupled to a first and second lateral guide, configured to guide the slats (2) along a direction of movement; - a connection mechanism (7) configured to connect the slats (2) and rotate them about their respective longitudinal axes; - a lifting shaft (6), connected to the last or lowest slat, distal of the lifting shaft, to allow the slats, which are connected to each other by the connecting mechanism, to move in the direction of movement when the lifting shaft is rotated; - a lifting element (9) connected to the last slat (2a), distal of the lifting shaft (6), to move the slats (2) in the direction of movement when the lifting shaft 6 is rotated; - a connection structure for connecting the lifting element (9) to the last slat; - an inclination pulley (11) connected to the connection mechanism (7), to actuate it in order to modify the inclination of the slats (2), and operatively connected to the lifting shaft (6) by means of a clutch (14), so that a rotation of the lift axis in a first direction causes the tilt pulley to rotate to a maximum or minimum tilt configuration of the slats and a further rotation of the lift axis in the first direction causes the tilt pulley to rotate. slide on the clutch, characterized in that Z said lifting shaft is coupled to a motor (6) and said sunshade apparatus comprises a stop device to stop the motor (13), and an activation element, configured to activate the stop device to inhibit the operation of the motor (13), in which the connection structure defines a free space, along the direction of movement, between the lifting element (9) and the last slat (2a), so that the last The blade (2a) can be moved between a first and a second position along the direction of movement, with respect to a section of the lifting element (9) to which it is connected, in order to activate the activating element Z. The parasol apparatus (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the connecting structure comprises a lifting carriage (10) fixed to the last slat (2a) and movably connected to the lifting element (9) to define free space. The parasol apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the activation element is movable between a deactivated configuration and an active configuration in response to a relative movement of the last slat (2a) with respect to to the lifting element in a pick-up direction of the plurality of slats (2). The sunshade apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the motor is controlled through an electronic card, which is connected to the stop device and is programmed to keep the motor in an inhibited state for a predetermined amount of time, in response to a stop signal from the stop device. The sunshade apparatus (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that the electronic card is programmed to restart the motor in the reverse direction, at the end of the predetermined time. The sunshade apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the activating element is connected to the last slat (2a). The parasol apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inclination pulley (11) is inactive with respect to the lifting axis (6) and is connected to the first pulley (8) of lifting through the clutch (14) interposed between the inclination pulley (11) and the first lifting pulley (8). The parasol apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a proximity sensor (21), configured to detect the presence of the last segment (2a) in a distal travel limit position of the shaft (6) of elevation, corresponding to an extended configuration of the sunshade apparatus (1), in which the stop device is connected to the proximity sensor (21) to avoid inhibiting the motor (13) when the sunshade adopts extended configuration. The sunshade apparatus (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that the proximity sensor (21) is connected to an anti-theft alarm system configured to come into operation in the event of an attempt to move the slats (2) manually . The sunshade apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lifting shaft (6) is coupled to the motor (13) to rotate at a first speed, in a driving condition of the shaft (6) lifting on the inclination pulley (11), and at a second speed greater than the first, in a sliding condition of the inclination pulley (11) with respect to the lifting axis (6). The sunshade apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1, 3-10, wherein the lifting carriage (10) is fixed to the lifting element (9) and movably connected to the last slat (2a) to define the aforementioned free space. The sunshade apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a travel stop element (15) connected to the tilt pulley (11) and configured to prevent the pulley (11) from Tilt rotate when at least a predetermined angular travel limit position is reached. The parasol apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each slat (2) comprises at least one guide (5) integral with the slat (2) and extending along the longitudinal axis of the slat (2), and in which the connection mechanism (7) comprises a plurality of elements (4) for movement of the slats (2), operatively associated with the first and second ends of the slats (2 ), in such a way that each slat (2) is coupled to a first movement element (4), at the first end, and to a second movement element (4), at the second end, and in which the apparatus comprises , for each slat (2), a first and second securing element (23), configured to secure the slat (2) to the first and second movement element (4), respectively, and in which the elements (23) of first and second securing are slidably coupled to guide (5) to be movable along the longitudinal direction of extension of the slat (2), between a position of non-interference with the movement element (4) and a position to couple and secure the respective movement element (4). 14. A method of using a sun visor apparatus (1) comprising a plurality of slats (2), coupled to a first and a second guide to move along a direction of movement between a retracted configuration and an extended configuration , a lifting shaft (6) connected to a motor (13) and to the last slat (2a), distal of the lifting shaft, to allow the slats, which are connected to each other through a connection mechanism, to move in the direction of movement when the lifting shaft is rotated, a lifting element (9) connected to the last slat (2a) through a connecting structure, a tilt pulley (11) connected to the mechanism (7) of connection, to actuate it in order to modify the inclination of the slats (2), and operatively connected to the lifting shaft (6) by means of a clutch (14), so that a rotation of the lifting shaft in a first direction causes the camber pulley to rotate to a setting of maximum or minimum inclination of the slats and a greater rotation of the elevation axis in the first direction causes the inclination pulley to slide on the clutch, the method being characterized in that it comprises the following steps: - prepare the connection structure so that it defines a free space, along the direction of movement, between the lifting element (9) and the last slat (2a), so that the last slat (2a) can move between a first and second position along the direction of movement, with respect to a section of the lifting element (9) to which it is connected; - activating an activation element Z in response to a movement of the last slat (2a) from the first to the second position in a direction towards the lifting axis (6); - stopping and inhibiting the motor (13), in response to the activation action. The method of using a parasol apparatus (1) according to claim 14, comprising the following steps: - detecting the presence of the last slat (2a) in a position of the limit of travel, distal of the lifting axis (6), corresponding to the extended configuration of the parasol apparatus (1); - inverting the logic of the stop device to prevent the motor (13) from being inhibited when the sun visor device (1) adopts the extended configuration regardless of the activation of the activation element.