EP2007956B1 - Covering system - Google Patents
Covering system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP2007956B1 EP2007956B1 EP07732231.1A EP07732231A EP2007956B1 EP 2007956 B1 EP2007956 B1 EP 2007956B1 EP 07732231 A EP07732231 A EP 07732231A EP 2007956 B1 EP2007956 B1 EP 2007956B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- screen
- rotatable member
- longitudinal flexible
- flexible element
- covering apparatus
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Not-in-force
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F10/00—Sunshades, e.g. Florentine blinds or jalousies; Outside screens; Awnings or baldachins
- E04F10/02—Sunshades, e.g. Florentine blinds or jalousies; Outside screens; Awnings or baldachins of flexible canopy materials, e.g. canvas ; Baldachins
- E04F10/06—Sunshades, e.g. Florentine blinds or jalousies; Outside screens; Awnings or baldachins of flexible canopy materials, e.g. canvas ; Baldachins comprising a roller-blind with means for holding the end away from a building
- E04F10/0607—Sunshades, e.g. Florentine blinds or jalousies; Outside screens; Awnings or baldachins of flexible canopy materials, e.g. canvas ; Baldachins comprising a roller-blind with means for holding the end away from a building with guiding-sections for supporting the movable end of the blind
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F10/00—Sunshades, e.g. Florentine blinds or jalousies; Outside screens; Awnings or baldachins
- E04F10/02—Sunshades, e.g. Florentine blinds or jalousies; Outside screens; Awnings or baldachins of flexible canopy materials, e.g. canvas ; Baldachins
- E04F10/06—Sunshades, e.g. Florentine blinds or jalousies; Outside screens; Awnings or baldachins of flexible canopy materials, e.g. canvas ; Baldachins comprising a roller-blind with means for holding the end away from a building
- E04F10/0644—Sunshades, e.g. Florentine blinds or jalousies; Outside screens; Awnings or baldachins of flexible canopy materials, e.g. canvas ; Baldachins comprising a roller-blind with means for holding the end away from a building with mechanisms for unrolling or balancing the blind
- E04F10/0655—Sunshades, e.g. Florentine blinds or jalousies; Outside screens; Awnings or baldachins of flexible canopy materials, e.g. canvas ; Baldachins comprising a roller-blind with means for holding the end away from a building with mechanisms for unrolling or balancing the blind acting on the movable end, e.g. front bar
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F10/00—Sunshades, e.g. Florentine blinds or jalousies; Outside screens; Awnings or baldachins
- E04F10/02—Sunshades, e.g. Florentine blinds or jalousies; Outside screens; Awnings or baldachins of flexible canopy materials, e.g. canvas ; Baldachins
- E04F10/06—Sunshades, e.g. Florentine blinds or jalousies; Outside screens; Awnings or baldachins of flexible canopy materials, e.g. canvas ; Baldachins comprising a roller-blind with means for holding the end away from a building
- E04F10/0666—Accessories
- E04F10/0681—Support posts for the movable end of the blind
Definitions
- the longitudinal flexible element may be wound, or partially wound around several rollers in order to provide the desired level of friction.
- the longitudinal flexible element is wound around the first and second rotatable members in a figure-of-eight pattern.
- the longitudinal flexible element is wound around the two rotatable members in opposite senses, e.g. clockwise around the first rotatable member and anti-clockwise around the second rotatable member.
- this arrangement causes the rotatable members to rotate in opposite senses as they roll along the longitudinal flexible element. Therefore the rotatable members may be meshed together or frictionally engaged together so that one rotatable member drives the other. With this arrangement, the braking system can be applied to only one of the rotatable members, but still prevent both rotatable members from rotating.
- the longitudinal flexible element passes between the first and second rotatable members, then round the second rotatable member, then between the first and second rotatable members again, then round the first rotatable member in the opposite sense to the wind around the second rotatable member, then between the first and second rotatable members a third time, before continuing in its original direction.
- one rotatable member is situated on (and, in use, rolls with respect to) each side of the longitudinal flexible element. This provides a better balanced and more compact and stable mechanism.
- the apparatus further comprises a motor for rotatably driving at least one rotatable member.
- the screen can be deployed or retracted remotely or automatically. This is particularly useful for large heavy screens or for covering systems which are awkward to reach.
- the means for preventing rotation is applied to or associated with the motor. Thus by preventing rotation of the motor, the screen is prevented from further extending or retracting.
- the covering apparatus may further comprise gearing between the motor and the at least one rotatable member.
- Motors tend to rotate at high speeds, whereas the screen will need to be deployed somewhat slower. Also, the large heavy screens will need the extra power provided by gearing down the motor.
- the gearing comprises a worm gear.
- the worm gear is particularly beneficial in that it provides a simple arrangement with a high ratio of gearing down. It is also particularly suitable for driving two rotatable members by placing the rotatable members on opposite sides of the worm gear. The worm gear will cause the two rotatable members to rotate in opposite senses.
- the means for preventing rotation may comprise the gearing.
- reversing the system means that a small movement of the screen can only occur by inducing many rotations of the motor which incurs significant resistance.
- a "braking" system is effected. This is particularly advantageous where an additional brake is applied to the motor. The braking force of that brake will only be overcome by a much greater force applied to the screen downstream of the gearing.
- the system is particularly advantageous when a worm gear is included in the gearing because a worm gear is a one way drive mechanism. No rotational force on the rotatable members can cause the worm gear to operate in reverse. Therefore no further braking system will be required.
- each rotatable member has a toothed portion for driving the rotatable member.
- the rotatable members can engage with each other, or with a worm gear so that they rotate in opposite senses or they can engage with a third central drive gear so that they rotate in the same sense.
- the covering apparatus preferably comprises a plurality of longitudinal flexible elements and has a roller system provided on each longitudinal flexible element (or at least a plurality of them). Providing a plurality of longitudinal flexible elements with roller systems increases the stability of the covering apparatus and increases the amount of friction force and braking force that can be applied to provide tension in the screen.
- the apparatus may be further provided with an automatic retraction system.
- the tension sensor may directly sense the tension in the screen or it may determine the tension in the screen by sensing the tension in a support of the screen. In this latter arrangement, the tension sensor is preferably calibrated each time the screen is deployed or retracted.
- a preferred embodiment of the covering system of the invention provides a plurality of rollers around which the screen is wrapped when retracted.
- two storage rollers are provided which are driven synchronously so as to wind the screen around them in such a way as to provide a generally oval cross-section.
- the rollers may be driven by a third driving roller, smaller in diameter than the storage rollers and located between them in driving contact with both rollers.
- the storage rollers may be synchronously driven by a drive belt or chain.
- a flexible base member may be provided around the storage rollers and driven by the storage rollers.
- the sheet is attached to the flexible base member.
- the sheet may be wound around the storage rollers and attached to itself so as to form a closed loop around the rollers at the trailing end thereof.
- the flexible base member or the loop of fabric formed at the trailing end of the sheet must have sufficient frictional engagement with the storage rollers that when at least one of the storage rollers is driven, the sheet or the base member is also driven and the sheet is retracted around the storage rollers.
- the friction between the storage rollers and the sheet or base member is increased by providing a spring or springs which bias the storage rollers apart. Friction can also be increased by giving the rollers a rough or sticky surface, e.g. by providing rubber strips on the rollers.
- the apparatus can also be applied to other applications beyond the field of covering systems.
- the screen can be replaced with other objects that need to be releasably engaged with a longitudinal flexible element.
- Figures 1 and 2 show a covering apparatus 1 comprising a storage roller 2 at the trailing end of a screen 3. Any portion of the screen which is not deployed is rolled up on the storage roller 2.
- the storage roller 2 is motorized so that when tension is required in the screen, the storage roller 2 is driven in the direction of retracting the screen until sufficient tension has been applied.
- Two cables (longitudinal flexible elements) 4 are provided (partially shown in Figures 1 and 2 ) which support the screen 3 when it is deployed.
- the cables 4 are under high tension so as to support the screen 3 without allowing it to sag too much under its own weight.
- these cables are attached to supports at either end.
- the wall of a house could provide a first support and a second support could be formed by a pole fixed in the ground and anchored with guy ropes. These supports must be capable of maintaining tension in the cables 4.
- a transverse bar 5 is attached at the leading end of the screen 3 (shown in more detail in Figure 2 ).
- the transverse bar 5 provides support so as to prevent transverse sag of the screen.
- the screen 5 is attached to roller systems 6 (one on each of the cables 4).
- roller systems 6 one on each of the cables 4.
- the nearest roller system 6 is shown without a case and the furthest roller system 6 is shown in a case 10.
- the two roller systems 6 are identical and therefore only one will be described here.
- the two rollers 7 are driven in opposite senses by the worm gear 8 when the motor 9 is driven. As the rollers 7 rotate, one of the rollers 7 (which roller depends on the direction of travel) winds cable 4 up around itself, while the other roller 7 pays out the same amount of cable (as the rollers 7 are the same size and are driven at the same speed). In this manner the rollers 7 and hence the transverse bar 5 and the screen 3 move longitudinally along the longitudinal flexible elements (cables) 4.
- roller system grips the cable 4 securely and holds the screen in place against the tension force provided by the storage roller 2 being driven backwards.
- Figures 7 and 8 show second and third embodiments of the invention.
- the second embodiment shown in Figure 7 has a similar drive mechanism as described above in relation to the first embodiment, but housed inside a case 210 attached to a transverse bar 205.
- Two rollers (not shown) are housed inside the case 210 and the cable 204 passes into the case 210 at one end, round the rollers in a figure-of-eight pattern and out of the case 210 at the opposite end.
- One of the rollers is driven by a motor 209 to move the screen along the cable 204.
- the third embodiment shown in Figure 8 has a similar drive mechanism to the first and second embodiments, but with the rollers lying in a plane perpendicular to those of the first and second embodiments and substantially parallel with the screen.
- the cable 304 passes into and out of the case 310 at either end.
- the case 310 is attached to a transverse bar 305.
- the rollers are fixed (e.g. to a support) and the longitudinal flexible elements are movable relative to the rollers.
- the longitudinal flexible elements are formed as continuous loops, extending round pulleys at the front and back of the canopy system.
- the longitudinal flexible elements are moved past the rollers and the loops rotate around the pulleys.
- the screen is attached to the longitudinal flexible elements so that as the loops are rotated, the screen is extended or retracted.
- the same rollers and braking and gearing systems apply to this embodiment as they do to the other embodiments.
- Figures 20 and 21 show an embodiment of the invention in which the screen 401 can be extended or retracted electrically.
- the rollers in the roller cases 413, 414 are electrically powered so as to extend or retract the screen 401. Any clamping mechanism can also be electrically actuated.
- an electrical wire 437 runs diagonally from one corner at the trailing edge of the screen 401 to the diagonally opposite corner at the leading edge 402 of the screen 401.
- the wire 437 is distributed evenly across the width of the screen roll and the diameter of the roll is uniform and minimised. In this way, power can be transmitted from an external power supply, through the wire 437 to the roller case 413. Power can then be transferred to the other roller case 414 by running another wire (not shown) along the transverse rod at the leading portion 402 of the screen 401.
- two electrical wires 438, 438' run diagonally to the centre of the screen 401, one from each corner at the trailing edge of the screen 401.
- Each wire 438, 438' changes direction at the centre of the screen 401 and they run diagonally to the corners at the leading edge of the screen 401.
- the wires 438, 438' are held together at the centre so as to maintain the X-shape formed by the wires 438, 438'.
- the wires 437, 438, 438' whether carrying electricity or not, also serve to reinforce the material of larger screens.
- straps may be used instead of wires.
- Figure 11 shows the tension sensor 426 of figures 9 and 10 mounted on a wall 407 which forms the first support of a covering apparatus according to the invention.
- Figure 12 is an enlarged view of figure 11 .
- FIGS 13 and 14 show another embodiment of a tension sensor 426 for use with the invention.
- the tension sensor 426 senses the tension in a wire 411, 412 of the covering system rather than sensing the tension in the screen 401. (as in figures 9 and 10 ).
- the tension in the screen 401 is directly transmitted to the wires 411, 412.
- the pressure sensor 429 is calibrated. If the pressure sensor 429 senses a pressure greater than a predetermined threshold, it issues a warning or, if the screen 401 is motorised, causes the screen 401 to be retracted.
- the tension sensor 426 can easily be combined with the roller casings.
- Figure 15 shows the tension sensor 426 of figures 13 and 14 mounted on a wall 407 which forms the first support of a covering apparatus according to the invention.
- Figure 16 is an enlarged view of figure 15 .
- the tension sensors 426 shown in figures 9 to 16 are enclosed within a housing 430 and therefore are protected from the weather. These systems are therefore more reliable than those involving wind sensors which must necessarily be exposed to the elements.
- Figure 17 shows a storage system for a flexible sheet 401.
- the storage system has two rollers 433, 434 which are synchronously driven so that the sheet 401 is stored around the rollers 433, 434 with a cross-sectional shape determined by the arrangement of the rollers 433, 434 (i.e. substantially oval in this embodiment).
- a cross-sectional shape determined by the arrangement of the rollers 433, 434 (i.e. substantially oval in this embodiment).
- Figures 18 and 19 show two ways in which the storage system of figure 17 can be driven.
- the two storage rollers 433, 434 are driven by a third drive roller 435 of smaller diameter than the storage rollers 433, 434 and located between the storage rollers 433, 434 in driving contact therewith. In this way, both storage rollers 433, 434, which have the same diameter, are driven in the same direction at the same speed.
- the two storage rollers 433, 434 are connected by a chain 436 so that when one roller 433, 434 is driven, the other roller 434, 433 is also driven synchronously.
Description
- The present invention relates to a covering apparatus such as a canopy or an awning for providing sun protection, rain protection or the like. More specifically, the present invention concerns a covering apparatus of the type where a covering screen is supported by and may engage with longitudinal flexible elements.
- A variety of covering apparatuses are known in the art. For example some canopies are provided on the side of a building, with folding arms which can be extended when the canopy is to be deployed. Other covering systems have a covering screen attached to moveable wires which are operated to extend or retract the screen. Other covering systems employ fixed wires which support a covering screen when it is deployed.
- A major problem with all of these types of covering screen is providing sufficient tension in the screen. In the past, tension has typically been provided by means of springs so that as the screen is extended further, more tension is applied by the springs. However, the limit of tension which can be provided by springs is fairly low and varies with the length of screen which has been extended. Also springs lose their elasticity over time or if they are extended too far. This limit of tension has been a major factor in limiting the size of such covering systems.
- Many applications require much larger covering systems. For example covering outdoor areas such as swimming pools, tennis courts or large patios would require a larger covering system. Likewise for even larger applications such as in agriculture or for covering stadiums. As the area to be covered gets larger, the covering screen gets heavier. The screen also becomes more susceptible to winds. Therefore to make such systems useful, a great deal of tension must be applied to the screen.
-
FR 2708661 -
AU 635433 - A covering apparatus for covering an outdoor area as described herein may comprise a screen that can be operated between a retracted and an extended configuration, the screen having a leading portion and a trailing portion, the trailing portion being connected to a first support, the apparatus further comprising a plurality of longitudinal flexible elements extending from the first support to respective second supports, and the leading portion of the screen being supported by the longitudinal flexible elements as the screen is operated from the retracted to the extended configuration, wherein the leading portion of the screen is moveably mounted to the longitudinal flexible elements such that the leading portion moves with respect to the longitudinal flexible elements during operation between retracted and extended positions, and wherein at least one engaging system is provided in association with the leading portion of the screen for releasably engaging the leading portion to at least one of the longitudinal flexible elements.
- With such an arrangement, the screen can be extended to any desired position along the longitudinal flexible elements and then the engaging system can be applied to hold the screen in place relative to the longitudinal flexible elements. Tension can then be applied to the screen, e.g. by drawing the trailing portion of the screen back in the direction of retraction. Thus tension may readily be provided to the screen. This is limited only by the strength of the engaging system rather than by the strength of springs as in the prior art.
- The engaging system may be in any form such as a clamping system having members that move together to grip the longitudinal flexible elements. These members may be rollers arranged to run along the longitudinal flexible elements. However, it is preferred that clamps in general and in particular clamps using moving rollers are not used. Nevertheless, it is preferred that the engaging system comprises rotatable members that co-operate with the longitudinal flexible elements. Thus, while the engaging system may be a separate element of the covering apparatus it is preferably formed integrally with a roller system which has rotatable members arranged to roll along the longitudinal flexible elements. The longitudinal flexible elements are preferably cables which are sized in order to support the screen and the tensile forces applied. Also the screen itself must be sufficiently strong to withstand the tension which is to be applied to it. Much of the loading may be due to wind, which may create much higher loading than the weight of the components. To achieve these objectives, the elements are preferably steel cables and these, for a typical application, should be at least 5 mm in diameter. Preferably cables between 5 and 10 mm are used, but where necessary, for large canopies, or where high wind loading is expected, cables of up to 15 or 20mm or even more may be used.
- According to the invention, there is provided a covering apparatus comprising an extendible screen, a longitudinal flexible element and a rotatable member, wherein one of the longitudinal flexible element and the rotatable member is fixed and the screen is attached to the other of the longitudinal flexible element and the rotatable member so as to permit relative movement of the screen relative to the fixed part, wherein the rotatable member is frictionally engaged with the longitudinal flexible element, and wherein there is provided means for preventing rotation of the rotatable members, whereby the screen is held in position relative to the fixed part.
- Accordingly, the roller(s) engage the longitudinal flexible elements by means of friction such that the roller(s) do not slide with respect to the elements. Thus the engaging system may engage the canopy with the element by preventing rotation of the rollers, e.g. by means of braking or gearing. The longitudinal flexible elements may be fixed and the screen attached to the rollers such that operation of the rollers pulls the screen along the longitudinal flexible elements. Alternatively, the rollers may be fixed and the screen attached to the longitudinal flexible elements. In this case, the longitudinal flexible elements are formed as loops around front and rear pulleys such that operation of the rollers moves the loops of longitudinal flexible elements and thereby moves the screen.
- The use of rollers in this manner has a further advantage in that, were the canopy arranged to merely slide along the elongate flexible elements, the friction force between the screen and the longitudinal flexible elements could be quite high in the case of large canopies. Providing rollers on the leading portion reduces this friction and so it is desirable to provide these in any event. Integrating the engaging system with the rollers greatly simplifies the construction and operation of a covering system.
- The use of frictionally engaging rollers to provide an engagement system for a canopy is, in itself regarded as an inventive concept and so, viewed &om a further aspect, the invention provides a covering apparatus comprising an extendible screen, a longitudinal flexible element and a rotatable member, wherein one of the longitudinal flexible element and the rotatable member is fixed and the screen is attached to the other of the longitudinal flexible element and the rotatable member so as to permit relative movement of the screen relative to the fixed part, wherein the rotatable member is frictionally engaged with the longitudinal flexible element, and wherein there is provided means for preventing rotation of the rotatable member, whereby the screen is held in position relative to the fixed part.
- Preferably, the screen is extendible relative to the longitudinal flexible element, the screen is attached to the rotatable member, and the means for preventing rotation holds the screen in position relative to the longitudinal flexible element. Alternatively, the rotatable member is fixed, the longitudinal flexible element is movable relative to the rotatable member, the screen is attached to the longitudinal flexible element and the means for preventing rotation holds the screen in position relative to the rotatable member.
- According to some preferred embodiments of the invention, there is provided a covering apparatus comprising a screen which is extendible relative to a longitudinal flexible element, wherein the screen is attached to a rotatable member which is frictionally engaged with the longitudinal flexible element, there being provided means for preventing rotation of the rotatable member whereby the screen is held in position relative to the longitudinal flexible element.
- The rotatable member may be a roller, pulley, wheel, etc. It is preferably in the form of a pulley which is formed with flanges or the like to receive the longitudinal flexible element (e.g. a cable) without the element slipping off.
- Preferably the or each rotatable member has a friction hub for winding the longitudinal flexible element around. The friction hub is designed to provide maximum friction between the rotatable member and the longitudinal flexible element so as to prevent the longitudinal flexible element from sliding round the rotatable member and thus preventing movement of the screen when the rotatable members are not rotated.
- More preferably, at least one groove is provided in the friction hub. The groove holds the longitudinal flexible element in place on the friction hub, preventing lateral movement of the longitudinal flexible element with respect to the hub. The groove also serves to increase the friction between the hub and the longitudinal flexible element by increasing the area of the hub which is in contact with the longitudinal flexible element.
- In certain applications, the weight of the canopy may be sufficient to generate sufficient frictional engagement between the rotatable member and the longitudinal flexible element if one merely rests on the other. However, in most instances it will be necessary for the longitudinal flexible element to be wrapped at least partially around the rotatable member so as to generate more friction than would be generated merely through gravity.
- By wrapping the longitudinal flexible element around the rotatable member, enough friction can readily be created so that when tension is applied to the screen, the rotatable member does not slide with respect to the longitudinal flexible element. If necessary, a friction increasing surface may be formed on the rotatable member.
- Although sufficient friction is created between the longitudinal flexible element and the rotatable member that the latter will not slide with respect to the longitudinal flexible element, the rotatable member can still rotate with the longitudinal flexible element passing around it and thereby roll along the longitudinal flexible element or pull the loop of longitudinal flexible element round. In other words, as the rotatable member is rotated, a portion of the longitudinal flexible element is taken up in a wind around the rotatable member. At the same time, the same length portion of longitudinal flexible element is paid out from the rotatable member. Thus the rotatable member does not slide with respect to the longitudinal flexible element, but rather, in a first embodiment, rolls along it, thereby moving longitudinally with respect to the longitudinal flexible element and, in a second embodiment, pulls a loop of longitudinal flexible element round front and rear pulleys, thus moving the screen with respect to the fixed parts.
- After the screen has been deployed to the desired position, tension may be applied to the screen. In order to prevent this tension from causing the rotatable member to travel further along the longitudinal flexible element by means of rotation as described above, rotation of the rotatable member is prevented, e.g. a braking system is applied to the roller.
- Thus, in this arrangement, a combination of the means for preventing rotational movement with respect to the longitudinal flexible element and the friction preventing sliding movement with respect to the longitudinal flexible element keeps the rotatable member engaged with the longitudinal flexible element and thereby holds the screen at the desired position, even when tension is applied to the screen.
- Thus according to some preferred embodiments of the invention, there is provided a covering apparatus, comprising: a screen; a longitudinal flexible element; a roller system for attaching a leading portion of the screen to the longitudinal flexible element so that the screen is movably mounted to the longitudinal flexible element and moves with respect to the longitudinal flexible element when the roller system is operated, the roller system comprising: a rotatable member around which the longitudinal flexible element is wound so as to create friction between the rotatable member and the longitudinal flexible element; and a braking system for preventing rotation of the rotatable member with respect to the longitudinal flexible element
- As mentioned above, it is necessary to provide enough friction between the rotatable member and the longitudinal flexible element to prevent relative sliding motion when the desired degree of tension is applied to the screen. Therefore, where more tension is required in the screen, the longitudinal flexible element is preferably wound at least once, more preferably at least twice round the rotatable member. Because the longitudinal flexible element is itself under high tension, this will provide a significant frictional force. However if more friction is required, the longitudinal element may be wound around the rotatable member more times, thus increasing the length of longitudinal flexible element which is in contact with the surface of the rotatable member.
- Although a single rotatable member (hereinafter "first rotatable member") is suitable for many applications, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the apparatus further comprises a further rotatable member (hereinafter "second rotatable member"), and the longitudinal flexible element is wound around the first rotatable member and the second rotatable member. This has a similar frictional effect to wrapping the longitudinal element twice around the same rotatable member as it increases the contact area between the rotatable member surfaces and the longitudinal flexible element. However, when the longitudinal flexible element is wound around a single rotatable member, it will necessarily be translated laterally along the rotatable member as the winding progresses. If two rotatable members are provided, this translation can be cancelled out by winding the longitudinal flexible element in the opposite direction along the second rotatable member. Also, due to the width of the windings, if the longitudinal flexible element is wound several times around a single rotatable member, a high torque is applied to the rotatable member. By providing two rotatable members, this torque is distributed between the rotatable members. The two rotatable members can also be wound in opposite lateral directions, thereby cancelling out the lateral displacement of the longitudinal flexible element.
- The longitudinal flexible element may be wound, or partially wound around several rollers in order to provide the desired level of friction.
- In a particularly preferred embodiment, the longitudinal flexible element is wound around the first and second rotatable members in a figure-of-eight pattern. In other words, the longitudinal flexible element is wound around the two rotatable members in opposite senses, e.g. clockwise around the first rotatable member and anti-clockwise around the second rotatable member. In addition to the previous advantages, this arrangement causes the rotatable members to rotate in opposite senses as they roll along the longitudinal flexible element. Therefore the rotatable members may be meshed together or frictionally engaged together so that one rotatable member drives the other. With this arrangement, the braking system can be applied to only one of the rotatable members, but still prevent both rotatable members from rotating.
- In an even more preferred embodiment, the longitudinal flexible element passes between the first and second rotatable members, then round the second rotatable member, then between the first and second rotatable members again, then round the first rotatable member in the opposite sense to the wind around the second rotatable member, then between the first and second rotatable members a third time, before continuing in its original direction. With this arrangement, one rotatable member is situated on (and, in use, rolls with respect to) each side of the longitudinal flexible element. This provides a better balanced and more compact and stable mechanism.
- Preferably, the apparatus further comprises a motor for rotatably driving at least one rotatable member. In this way, the screen can be deployed or retracted remotely or automatically. This is particularly useful for large heavy screens or for covering systems which are awkward to reach. In the preferred forms of the invention, the means for preventing rotation is applied to or associated with the motor. Thus by preventing rotation of the motor, the screen is prevented from further extending or retracting.
- The covering apparatus may further comprise gearing between the motor and the at least one rotatable member. Motors tend to rotate at high speeds, whereas the screen will need to be deployed somewhat slower. Also, the large heavy screens will need the extra power provided by gearing down the motor. In the most preferred arrangements the gearing comprises a worm gear. The worm gear is particularly beneficial in that it provides a simple arrangement with a high ratio of gearing down. It is also particularly suitable for driving two rotatable members by placing the rotatable members on opposite sides of the worm gear. The worm gear will cause the two rotatable members to rotate in opposite senses.
- The means for preventing rotation may comprise the gearing. As many rotations of the motor cause only a small movement of the screen, reversing the system means that a small movement of the screen can only occur by inducing many rotations of the motor which incurs significant resistance. Thus a "braking" system is effected. This is particularly advantageous where an additional brake is applied to the motor. The braking force of that brake will only be overcome by a much greater force applied to the screen downstream of the gearing. Again the system is particularly advantageous when a worm gear is included in the gearing because a worm gear is a one way drive mechanism. No rotational force on the rotatable members can cause the worm gear to operate in reverse. Therefore no further braking system will be required.
- Preferably the or each rotatable member has a toothed portion for driving the rotatable member. The rotatable members can engage with each other, or with a worm gear so that they rotate in opposite senses or they can engage with a third central drive gear so that they rotate in the same sense.
- The covering apparatus preferably comprises a plurality of longitudinal flexible elements and has a roller system provided on each longitudinal flexible element (or at least a plurality of them). Providing a plurality of longitudinal flexible elements with roller systems increases the stability of the covering apparatus and increases the amount of friction force and braking force that can be applied to provide tension in the screen.
- In the system of the present invention, if the roller casings are to be motorised, electricity must somehow be supplied to the roller casings. This can be done by running a power cable down the side of the screen to one of the roller casings. Power can then be supplied to the other roller casing by running a cable along the leading portion of the screen. However with this method, if the screen is rolled up, the cable causes the rolled up screen to be significantly thicker at the side where the cable is mounted. Therefore, preferably the cable is run diagonally through the screen from one side at the trailing portion of the screen to the opposite side at the leading portion of the screen. Thus, when the screen is rolled up, the cable is evenly spread throughout the length of the roll and the thickness of the roll is uniform. This makes for a more efficient storage of the rolled up screen by minimising the maximum diameter of the screen roll. An alternative way of achieving an even diameter of rolled up screen is to run a power cable from each corner by the trailing portion of the screen diagonally towards the centre of the screen and then diagonally from the centre of the screen to the corners by the leading portion of the screen where the roller cases are mounted. The wires may cross over in the centre, each carrying power from a corner of the screen at the trailing portion to the diagonally opposite corner on the leading portion of the screen or they may change direction in the centre, each carrying power from a corner of the screen at the trailing portion to the corner on the same side of the screen at the leading portion. In the latter arrangement, the two power carrying wires are preferably held together to help maintain the X-shape which reduces the overall diameter of the rolled up screen.
- These cables also provide the function of reinforcing the screen. Alternatively, separate reinforcing members may be attached to the screen which run diagonally across the screen from a trailing portion of the screen to a leading portion of the screen. These reinforcing members may be wires or cables or straps.
- Sometimes, when the tension in the screen becomes too high, e.g. in high winds, it becomes necessary to retract the screen so as to prevent it from being damaged.
- therefore, in a preferred embodiment, the apparatus may be further provided with an automatic retraction system.
- Automatic retraction systems which use wind sensors to determine when to retract the screen are known. However, wind is not the only factor in increasing tension in the screen. Accumulation of water or snow also increases the tension in the screen and would go undetected by a wind sensor.
- Therefore, a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention further comprises an automatic retraction system comprising a tension sensor which senses the tension in the screen and retracts the screen when a threshold tension is exceeded. In one embodiment the tension sensor senses the tension in the screen directly. In an alternative embodiment, the tension sensor senses the tension in at least one longitudinal flexible element. The tension sensor may be located in the roller casing or it may be located on a support. If it is located in the roller casing it may be combined with a clamping arrangement by sensing the pressure on the clamping element of the clamping arrangement.
- As described above, the tension sensor may directly sense the tension in the screen or it may determine the tension in the screen by sensing the tension in a support of the screen. In this latter arrangement, the tension sensor is preferably calibrated each time the screen is deployed or retracted.
- A further problem of large covering systems where the screen is rolled up when retracted is that for a long screen, the diameter of the cylinder of retracted screen can be quite large. This has not previously been a problem with covering systems because known covering systems have not been capable of extending as far as the system described above.
- However, in order to avoid such a large diameter of retracted screen a preferred embodiment of the covering system of the invention provides a plurality of rollers around which the screen is wrapped when retracted. In one embodiment, two storage rollers are provided which are driven synchronously so as to wind the screen around them in such a way as to provide a generally oval cross-section.
- The rollers may be driven by a third driving roller, smaller in diameter than the storage rollers and located between them in driving contact with both rollers. Alternatively the storage rollers may be synchronously driven by a drive belt or chain.
- In another alternative embodiment, three rollers are provided in a triangular arrangement and are driven synchronously so as to retract the screen around the three rollers in such a way as to provide a generally triangular cross-section.
- By using a plurality of smaller storage rollers instead of a single storage roller, the covering system may be made more space efficient.
- In this way, rollers can be arranged so as to make the best use of available space and the sheet can be stored with high spatial efficiency.
- A flexible base member may be provided around the storage rollers and driven by the storage rollers. The sheet is attached to the flexible base member. Alternatively the sheet may be wound around the storage rollers and attached to itself so as to form a closed loop around the rollers at the trailing end thereof.
- The flexible base member or the loop of fabric formed at the trailing end of the sheet must have sufficient frictional engagement with the storage rollers that when at least one of the storage rollers is driven, the sheet or the base member is also driven and the sheet is retracted around the storage rollers.
- In a preferred embodiment, the friction between the storage rollers and the sheet or base member is increased by providing a spring or springs which bias the storage rollers apart. Friction can also be increased by giving the rollers a rough or sticky surface, e.g. by providing rubber strips on the rollers.
- The apparatus can also be applied to other applications beyond the field of covering systems. Thus, in the above description, the screen can be replaced with other objects that need to be releasably engaged with a longitudinal flexible element.
- Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
-
Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a covering system according to a first embodiment of the invention; -
Figure 2 shows a more detailed view of the leading edge of the screen of the covering system of the first embodiment; -
Figure 3 shows an elevation of a roller system used in the first embodiment of the invention; -
Figure 4 shows the roller system ofFigure 3 in an exploded view; -
Figure 5 shows a roller forming part of the roller system of the first embodiment; -
Figure 6 shows a perspective view of the roller system of the first embodiment in operation. -
Figure 7 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of the invention; and -
Figure 8 shows a perspective view of a third embodiment of the invention. -
Figure 9 shows an embodiment of a tension sensor according to the invention when the screen is in a state of low tension. -
Figure 10 shows the tension sensor offigure 9 when the screen is in a state of high tension. -
Figure 11 shows an embodiment of a covering system of the invention including a tension sensor as shown infigures 9 and 10 . -
Figure 12 is an enlarged view offigure 11 . -
Figure 13 shows another embodiment of a tension sensor according to the invention when the cable is in a state of low tension. -
Figure 14 shows the tension sensor offigure 13 when the cable is in a state of high tension. -
Figure 15 shows an embodiment of a covering system of the invention with a tension sensor as shown infigures 13 and 14 . -
Figure 16 shows an enlarged view offigure 15 . -
Figure 17 shows an embodiment of a storage system. -
Figures 18 and 19 show alternative ways of operating the storage system offigure 17 . -
Figures 20 and 21 show alternative power cable arrangements for transferring electric power along the screen of a covering system according to the invention. -
Figures 1 and 2 show a covering apparatus 1 comprising astorage roller 2 at the trailing end of ascreen 3. Any portion of the screen which is not deployed is rolled up on thestorage roller 2. Thestorage roller 2 is motorized so that when tension is required in the screen, thestorage roller 2 is driven in the direction of retracting the screen until sufficient tension has been applied. - Two cables (longitudinal flexible elements) 4 are provided (partially shown in
Figures 1 and 2 ) which support thescreen 3 when it is deployed. Thecables 4 are under high tension so as to support thescreen 3 without allowing it to sag too much under its own weight. Although not shown in the figures, these cables are attached to supports at either end. For example, the wall of a house could provide a first support and a second support could be formed by a pole fixed in the ground and anchored with guy ropes. These supports must be capable of maintaining tension in thecables 4. - At the leading end of the screen 3 (shown in more detail in
Figure 2 ), atransverse bar 5 is attached. Thetransverse bar 5 provides support so as to prevent transverse sag of the screen. Thescreen 5 is attached to roller systems 6 (one on each of the cables 4). InFigure 2 , thenearest roller system 6 is shown without a case and thefurthest roller system 6 is shown in acase 10. However, the tworoller systems 6 are identical and therefore only one will be described here. - The
roller system 6 is shown inFigure 3 attached to a longitudinalflexible element 4. It is also shown inFigure 4 in exploded view. The roller system comprises tworollers 7. As can be seen fromFigure 5 , eachroller 7 comprises atoothed portion 7a and afriction hub 7b of smaller diameter than thetoothed portion 7a. Thefriction hub 7b containsgrooves 7c. Referring back toFigure 4 , thetoothed portions 7a of therollers 7 are meshed with a worm gear 8 which is driven by a DC motor 9. The cable (longitudinal flexible element) 4 is wrapped around thefirst roller 7 in a clockwise sense as viewed in the figure, and then in an anti-clockwise sense around thesecond roller 7 before continuing in its original direction. Thecable 4 fits into thegrooves 7c of therollers 7 to prevent it from slipping off thehub 7b in use. Thecable 4 is shown wrapped around therollers 7 inFigure 6 . - The two
rollers 7 are driven in opposite senses by the worm gear 8 when the motor 9 is driven. As therollers 7 rotate, one of the rollers 7 (which roller depends on the direction of travel) windscable 4 up around itself, while theother roller 7 pays out the same amount of cable (as therollers 7 are the same size and are driven at the same speed). In this manner therollers 7 and hence thetransverse bar 5 and thescreen 3 move longitudinally along the longitudinal flexible elements (cables) 4. - When the
screen 3 has been deployed to the desired position, thestorage roller 2 is driven so as to retract the screen until sufficient tension has been created in thescreen 3. Therollers 7 do not slide along thecables 4 because of the friction created by the cables 4 (which are under high tension) being wrapped around the first andsecond rollers 7 in thegrooves 7c. Therollers 7 do not rotate relative to thecables 4 because the motor 9 is not being driven and therollers 7 are incapable of turning the worm gear 8. - Thus the roller system grips the
cable 4 securely and holds the screen in place against the tension force provided by thestorage roller 2 being driven backwards. - It will be appreciated that although in this embodiment tension is created by fixing the
rollers 7 in place and then driving theroller 2 backwards, the tension could equally well be created by locking thestorage roller 2 and driving therollers 7 further forward in the direction of extending thescreen 3. -
Figures 7 and 8 show second and third embodiments of the invention. The second embodiment shown inFigure 7 has a similar drive mechanism as described above in relation to the first embodiment, but housed inside acase 210 attached to atransverse bar 205. Two rollers (not shown) are housed inside thecase 210 and thecable 204 passes into thecase 210 at one end, round the rollers in a figure-of-eight pattern and out of thecase 210 at the opposite end. One of the rollers is driven by amotor 209 to move the screen along thecable 204. - The third embodiment shown in
Figure 8 has a similar drive mechanism to the first and second embodiments, but with the rollers lying in a plane perpendicular to those of the first and second embodiments and substantially parallel with the screen. Thecable 304 passes into and out of thecase 310 at either end. Thecase 310 is attached to atransverse bar 305. - In another embodiment (not shown in the figures), instead of the longitudinal flexible elements being fixed and the rollers rolling along them, the rollers are fixed (e.g. to a support) and the longitudinal flexible elements are movable relative to the rollers. The longitudinal flexible elements are formed as continuous loops, extending round pulleys at the front and back of the canopy system. When the rollers are operated, the longitudinal flexible elements are moved past the rollers and the loops rotate around the pulleys. The screen is attached to the longitudinal flexible elements so that as the loops are rotated, the screen is extended or retracted. The same rollers and braking and gearing systems apply to this embodiment as they do to the other embodiments.
-
Figures 20 and 21 show an embodiment of the invention in which thescreen 401 can be extended or retracted electrically. The rollers in theroller cases screen 401. Any clamping mechanism can also be electrically actuated. - In order to operate the motors in the
roller cases figure 20 anelectrical wire 437 runs diagonally from one corner at the trailing edge of thescreen 401 to the diagonally opposite corner at theleading edge 402 of thescreen 401. When thescreen 401 is rolled up, thewire 437 is distributed evenly across the width of the screen roll and the diameter of the roll is uniform and minimised. In this way, power can be transmitted from an external power supply, through thewire 437 to theroller case 413. Power can then be transferred to theother roller case 414 by running another wire (not shown) along the transverse rod at the leadingportion 402 of thescreen 401. - In
figure 21 , twoelectrical wires 438, 438' run diagonally to the centre of thescreen 401, one from each corner at the trailing edge of thescreen 401. Eachwire 438, 438' changes direction at the centre of thescreen 401 and they run diagonally to the corners at the leading edge of thescreen 401. Thewires 438, 438' are held together at the centre so as to maintain the X-shape formed by thewires 438, 438'. - At the trailing edge of the
screen 401 thewires - The
wires -
Figures 9 and 10 show atension sensor 426 for an automatic retraction system for use with the invention.Figure 9 shows thetension sensor 426 when thescreen 401 is in a state of low tension andfigure 10 shows thetension sensor 426 when thescreen 401 is in a state of high tension. Thetension sensor 426 shown infigures 9 and 10 has twoupper rollers 427, 427' located above thescreen 401 and a singlelower roller 428 located below thescreen 401. Thelower roller 428 is mounted on apressure sensor 429 so that when thescreen 401 is under no tension or under low tension, thelower roller 428 biases thescreen 401 upwardly between the twoupper rollers 427, 427'. When tension in thescreen 401 increases, thelower roller 428 is biased downwardly andpressure sensor 429 senses a greater pressure. If thepressure sensor 429 senses a pressure greater than a predetermined threshold value, a warning may be generated, or if the screen is motorised, the screen may be automatically retracted. -
Figure 11 shows thetension sensor 426 offigures 9 and 10 mounted on awall 407 which forms the first support of a covering apparatus according to the invention.Figure 12 is an enlarged view offigure 11 . -
Figures 13 and 14 show another embodiment of atension sensor 426 for use with the invention. In this embodiment, thetension sensor 426 senses the tension in awire screen 401. (as infigures 9 and 10 ). The tension in thescreen 401 is directly transmitted to thewires screen 401 is deployed or retracted, thepressure sensor 429 is calibrated. If thepressure sensor 429 senses a pressure greater than a predetermined threshold, it issues a warning or, if thescreen 401 is motorised, causes thescreen 401 to be retracted. In this embodiment, thetension sensor 426 can easily be combined with the roller casings. -
Figure 15 shows thetension sensor 426 offigures 13 and 14 mounted on awall 407 which forms the first support of a covering apparatus according to the invention.Figure 16 is an enlarged view offigure 15 . - It will be appreciated that
figures 9 to 16 show the bend in thewire screen 401 slightly exaggerated. A digital pressure sensor would be used that does not require such a bend in thewire - The
tension sensors 426 shown infigures 9 to 16 are enclosed within ahousing 430 and therefore are protected from the weather. These systems are therefore more reliable than those involving wind sensors which must necessarily be exposed to the elements. -
Figure 17 shows a storage system for aflexible sheet 401. The storage system has tworollers sheet 401 is stored around therollers rollers 433, 434 (i.e. substantially oval in this embodiment). By storing theflexible sheet 401 around more than one roller, space can be used more efficiently. For example infigure 17 , thesheet 401 is kept more flat against thewall 407 than would be possible if it was all stored on a single roller. -
Figures 18 and 19 show two ways in which the storage system offigure 17 can be driven. Infigure 18 the twostorage rollers third drive roller 435 of smaller diameter than thestorage rollers storage rollers storage rollers figure 19 the twostorage rollers chain 436 so that when oneroller other roller
Claims (18)
- A covering apparatus (1) comprising an extendible screen (3), a longitudinal flexible element (4) and a rotatable member (7), wherein one of the longitudinal flexible element (4) and the rotatable member (7) is fixed and the screen (3) is attached to the other of the longitudinal flexible element (4) and the rotatable member (7) so as to permit movement of the screen (3) relative to the fixed part, wherein the rotatable member (7) is frictionally engaged with the longitudinal flexible element (4), and characterized by means (8) for preventing rotation of the rotatable member (7), whereby the screen (3) is held in position relative to the fixed part.
- A covering apparatus (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the screen (3) is extendible relative to the longitudinal flexible element (4), wherein the screen (3) is attached to the rotatable member (7), and wherein the means (8) for preventing rotation holds the screen (3) in position relative to the longitudinal flexible element (4).
- A covering apparatus (1) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rotatable member (7) is fixed, the longitudinal flexible element (4) is movable relative to the rotatable member (7), and the screen (3) is attached to the longitudinal flexible element (4) and wherein the means (8) for preventing rotation holds the screen (3) in position relative to the rotatable member (7).
- A covering apparatus (1) as claimed in claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the longitudinal flexible element (4) is wound at least once round the rotatable member (7).
- A covering apparatus (1) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the longitudinal flexible element (4) is wound at least twice round the rotatable member (7).
- A covering apparatus (1) as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising a second rotatable member (7), wherein the longitudinal flexible element (4) is wound around the first rotatable member and the second rotatable member.
- A covering apparatus (1) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the longitudinal flexible element (4) is wound around the first and second rotatable members (7) in a figure-of eight pattern.
- A covering apparatus (1) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the longitudinal flexible element (4) passes between the first and second rotatable members (7), then round the second rotatable member, then between the first and second rotatable members again, then round the first rotatable member in the opposite sense to the wind around the second rotatable member, then between the first and second rotatable members a third time, before continuing in its original direction.
- A covering apparatus (1) as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising a motor (9) for rotatably driving at least one rotatable member (7).
- A covering apparatus (1) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the means for preventing rotation is applied to the motor (9).
- A covering apparatus (1) as claimed in claim 9 or 10, further comprising gearing (8) between the motor (9) and the at least one rotatable member (7).
- A covering apparatus (1) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the gearing (8) comprises a worm gear.
- A covering apparatus (1) as claimed in claim 11 or 12, wherein the means for preventing rotation comprises the gearing (8).
- A covering apparatus (1) as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the means for preventing rotation is a braking system.
- A covering apparatus (1) as claimed any preceding claim, wherein the or each rotatable member (7) has a toothed portion (7a) for driving the rotatable member (7).
- A covering apparatus (1) as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the or each rotatable member (7) has a friction hub (7b) for winding the longitudinal flexible element (4) around.
- A covering apparatus (1) as claimed in claim 16, wherein at least one groove (7c) is provided in the friction hub (7b).
- A covering apparatus (1) as claimed in any preceding claim, comprising a plurality of longitudinal flexible elements (4) and wherein a rotatable member (7) is provided on each longitudinal flexible element (4).
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
PL07732231T PL2007956T3 (en) | 2006-03-31 | 2007-03-30 | Covering system |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
GBGB0606579.1A GB0606579D0 (en) | 2006-03-31 | 2006-03-31 | Covering system |
PCT/GB2007/001177 WO2007113518A2 (en) | 2006-03-31 | 2007-03-30 | Covering system |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP11192232.4 Division-Into | 2011-12-06 |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP2007956A2 EP2007956A2 (en) | 2008-12-31 |
EP2007956B1 true EP2007956B1 (en) | 2013-10-02 |
Family
ID=36425062
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP07732231.1A Not-in-force EP2007956B1 (en) | 2006-03-31 | 2007-03-30 | Covering system |
Country Status (6)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20100243176A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2007956B1 (en) |
ES (1) | ES2440720T3 (en) |
GB (1) | GB0606579D0 (en) |
PL (1) | PL2007956T3 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2007113518A2 (en) |
Families Citing this family (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
GB2450111A (en) * | 2007-06-12 | 2008-12-17 | Daniel Cutler | A retractable covering System |
US8953327B1 (en) * | 2011-05-26 | 2015-02-10 | iBlaidZ, Inc. | Self-winding membrane device |
DE102016111664A1 (en) | 2016-06-24 | 2017-12-28 | Gordon DUBAU | Roll awning |
NL2017061B1 (en) * | 2016-06-28 | 2018-01-05 | Van Der Valk Systemen B V | Method for Moving an Inspection or Processing Unit along a Conductive Fixture for a Screen Cloth of a Greenhouse or Department Store |
DE202017003773U1 (en) | 2017-05-08 | 2017-09-06 | Rainer Wronka | Roofing installation for use as sun and rain protection |
Family Cites Families (39)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US262398A (en) * | 1882-08-08 | gxraed | ||
US522383A (en) * | 1894-07-03 | Window-shade | ||
US767909A (en) * | 1903-12-05 | 1904-08-16 | Curtain Supply Co | Curtain-fixture. |
US937169A (en) * | 1908-06-23 | 1909-10-19 | Jacob Edwin Noepel | Mechanical movement. |
US2703236A (en) * | 1952-09-22 | 1955-03-01 | Verdier Brothers Inc | Closure operating means |
US3202415A (en) * | 1962-03-22 | 1965-08-24 | Edward E Lodge | Automatic door operator |
US4032186A (en) * | 1974-02-02 | 1977-06-28 | Pickering Phillip A | Convertible truck cover |
US4167833A (en) * | 1977-07-26 | 1979-09-18 | Metro-Dynamics, Inc. | Overhead garage door opener |
FR2502597A1 (en) * | 1981-03-24 | 1982-10-01 | Carpano & Pons | DEVICE FOR DRIVING A FLEXIBLE PROTECTIVE ELEMENT |
US4494256A (en) * | 1982-10-04 | 1985-01-22 | Ibg International | Motorized pool cover |
US4565230A (en) * | 1983-10-03 | 1986-01-21 | Rijn Barend C Van | Movable curtain systems for greenhouses and components therefor |
US4623012A (en) * | 1983-12-27 | 1986-11-18 | General Clutch Corporation | Headrail hardware for hanging window coverings |
US4766941A (en) * | 1986-06-09 | 1988-08-30 | Sytron Corporation | Window shade with selectively variable shading characteristics |
US4744403A (en) * | 1986-10-17 | 1988-05-17 | Appropriate Technology Corporation | Retrofittable insulating system for solar rooms |
US4976168A (en) * | 1986-12-22 | 1990-12-11 | Lucio Lotznicker | Drive for a door operator |
US4955092A (en) * | 1989-11-16 | 1990-09-11 | Hagan Thomas F | Swimming pool cover |
AU635433B2 (en) * | 1990-07-10 | 1993-03-18 | Shade Works Pty. Ltd. | Retractable shade cover |
US5265373A (en) * | 1991-01-15 | 1993-11-30 | Cravo Equipment Ltd. | Curtain system |
US5139075A (en) * | 1991-05-31 | 1992-08-18 | Eddy Desrochers | Operator for a rolling door assembly |
US5287908A (en) * | 1991-12-19 | 1994-02-22 | Hunter Douglas Inc. | Window covering assembly |
US5524693A (en) * | 1993-05-24 | 1996-06-11 | Hamilton; Roy S. | Flexible partition |
JPH0797886A (en) * | 1993-08-05 | 1995-04-11 | Hayashiguchi Kogyo Kk | Screen device |
US5535802A (en) * | 1994-06-06 | 1996-07-16 | Chambers; Norman L. | Door opener |
IL124726A (en) * | 1995-12-06 | 2000-12-06 | Norbert Kautsky Mechanik Gmbh | Adjustable canopy |
DE69700542T2 (en) * | 1996-07-31 | 2000-05-18 | Ceraper S L | Motorized reversible roller shutter |
US6260909B1 (en) * | 1998-03-19 | 2001-07-17 | Alfa Leisure, Inc. | Awning and rug assembly for a trailer |
US6003583A (en) * | 1998-08-06 | 1999-12-21 | Lacoste; Kevin | Door opening screening system |
DE60111796T2 (en) * | 2000-04-11 | 2006-04-20 | Harry J. Kailua Last | Cable-operated swimming pool cover with floating slats used as pool cover system |
EP1276951B1 (en) * | 2000-04-13 | 2007-01-24 | Wayne-Dalton Corp. | Overhead door locking operator |
US6561255B1 (en) * | 2000-04-13 | 2003-05-13 | Wayne-Dalton Corp. | Overhead door locking operator |
WO2001079647A1 (en) * | 2000-04-14 | 2001-10-25 | Wayne-Dalton Corporation | A method and apparatus for driving and storing a covering |
US6431488B1 (en) * | 2000-04-24 | 2002-08-13 | Poolsaver, Inc. | Dual drive pool cover |
US6644372B2 (en) * | 2001-03-22 | 2003-11-11 | Ren Judkins | Cordless blind |
US20070163727A1 (en) * | 2003-02-10 | 2007-07-19 | Zipshade Industrial (B.V.I.) Corp. | Window Blinds with Gears |
US8245756B2 (en) * | 2003-02-10 | 2012-08-21 | Li-Ming Cheng | Pull down, push up, shade apparatus |
EP1462601B1 (en) * | 2003-03-22 | 2018-01-10 | Novoferm GmbH | Sectional door |
US7299847B1 (en) * | 2003-07-30 | 2007-11-27 | Newco Electronics Corporation | Fire door control system and method |
EP1834061A2 (en) * | 2004-12-21 | 2007-09-19 | Daniel Cutler | A covering system |
CN101168424B (en) * | 2006-10-25 | 2011-08-03 | 因温特奥股份公司 | Door system |
-
2006
- 2006-03-31 GB GBGB0606579.1A patent/GB0606579D0/en not_active Ceased
-
2007
- 2007-03-30 US US12/294,953 patent/US20100243176A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2007-03-30 EP EP07732231.1A patent/EP2007956B1/en not_active Not-in-force
- 2007-03-30 ES ES07732231.1T patent/ES2440720T3/en active Active
- 2007-03-30 PL PL07732231T patent/PL2007956T3/en unknown
- 2007-03-30 WO PCT/GB2007/001177 patent/WO2007113518A2/en active Application Filing
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
GB0606579D0 (en) | 2006-05-10 |
PL2007956T3 (en) | 2014-03-31 |
WO2007113518A3 (en) | 2008-01-17 |
US20100243176A1 (en) | 2010-09-30 |
ES2440720T3 (en) | 2014-01-30 |
EP2007956A2 (en) | 2008-12-31 |
WO2007113518A2 (en) | 2007-10-11 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US8051866B2 (en) | Covering system | |
AU2005317864B2 (en) | A covering system | |
US10604940B2 (en) | Retractable sun shade | |
US3747132A (en) | Swimming pool cover | |
US20230228094A1 (en) | Awning apparatus | |
EP2007956B1 (en) | Covering system | |
US20050241779A1 (en) | Retractable self rolling blind, awning or cover apparatus | |
CN1331945A (en) | Cordless sunshading curtain with variable resistance to motion | |
US5425143A (en) | Multiple pool cover deployment method and apparatus | |
FR2668195A1 (en) | Device for covering a swimming pool, by hoisting a film by means of a movable winding drum which is moved electrically | |
US6948542B2 (en) | Retractable self rolling blind awning or cover apparatus | |
AU2002233071A1 (en) | Retractable Self Rolling Blind Awning or Cover Apparatus | |
AU2012206315A1 (en) | Awning | |
US20140345808A1 (en) | Fabric roller system and method | |
GB2535506A (en) | Retractable blind system | |
BE902028A (en) | Device operating roller blind with unidirectional motor - has winches torsioned by return spring to rewind blind | |
NZ590432A (en) | Awning with a flexible material connected to a windup roller at one end |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
PUAI | Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012 |
|
17P | Request for examination filed |
Effective date: 20081023 |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: A2 Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MT NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR |
|
AX | Request for extension of the european patent |
Extension state: AL BA HR MK RS |
|
17Q | First examination report despatched |
Effective date: 20091126 |
|
DAX | Request for extension of the european patent (deleted) | ||
GRAP | Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1 |
|
GRAP | Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1 |
|
INTG | Intention to grant announced |
Effective date: 20130419 |
|
GRAS | Grant fee paid |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3 |
|
GRAA | (expected) grant |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210 |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: B1 Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MT NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: GB Ref legal event code: FG4D |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: AT Ref legal event code: REF Ref document number: 634713 Country of ref document: AT Kind code of ref document: T Effective date: 20131015 Ref country code: CH Ref legal event code: EP |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: IE Ref legal event code: FG4D |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R096 Ref document number: 602007033122 Country of ref document: DE Effective date: 20131128 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: NL Ref legal event code: T3 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: SE Ref legal event code: TRGR |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: ES Ref legal event code: FG2A Ref document number: 2440720 Country of ref document: ES Kind code of ref document: T3 Effective date: 20140130 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: GR Ref legal event code: EP Ref document number: 20130402660 Country of ref document: GR Effective date: 20140124 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: SI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20131002 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: LT Ref legal event code: MG4D |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: IS Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20140202 Ref country code: LT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20131002 Ref country code: CZ Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20131002 Ref country code: FI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20131002 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: CH Payment date: 20140331 Year of fee payment: 8 Ref country code: IE Payment date: 20140331 Year of fee payment: 8 Ref country code: SE Payment date: 20140328 Year of fee payment: 8 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: LV Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20131002 Ref country code: CY Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20131002 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: LU Payment date: 20140402 Year of fee payment: 8 Ref country code: AT Payment date: 20140328 Year of fee payment: 8 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: PT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20140203 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R097 Ref document number: 602007033122 Country of ref document: DE |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: EE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20131002 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: MC Payment date: 20140428 Year of fee payment: 8 Ref country code: BE Payment date: 20140331 Year of fee payment: 8 Ref country code: GB Payment date: 20140425 Year of fee payment: 8 |
|
PLBE | No opposition filed within time limit |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261 |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: SK Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20131002 Ref country code: RO Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20131002 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: ES Payment date: 20140425 Year of fee payment: 8 Ref country code: GR Payment date: 20140429 Year of fee payment: 8 Ref country code: NL Payment date: 20140331 Year of fee payment: 8 Ref country code: TR Payment date: 20140401 Year of fee payment: 8 Ref country code: IT Payment date: 20140331 Year of fee payment: 8 Ref country code: DE Payment date: 20140401 Year of fee payment: 8 Ref country code: FR Payment date: 20140331 Year of fee payment: 8 |
|
26N | No opposition filed |
Effective date: 20140703 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: DK Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20131002 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: PL Payment date: 20140331 Year of fee payment: 8 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R097 Ref document number: 602007033122 Country of ref document: DE Effective date: 20140703 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R119 Ref document number: 602007033122 Country of ref document: DE |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: LU Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20150330 Ref country code: MC Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20150331 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: CH Ref legal event code: PL |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: AT Ref legal event code: MM01 Ref document number: 634713 Country of ref document: AT Kind code of ref document: T Effective date: 20150330 |
|
GBPC | Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee |
Effective date: 20150330 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: SE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20150331 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: SE Ref legal event code: EUG |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: NL Ref legal event code: MM Effective date: 20150401 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: GR Ref legal event code: ML Ref document number: 20130402660 Country of ref document: GR Effective date: 20151002 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: IT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20150330 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: FR Ref legal event code: ST Effective date: 20151130 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: IE Ref legal event code: MM4A |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: GR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20151002 Ref country code: IE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20150330 Ref country code: LI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20150331 Ref country code: GB Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20150330 Ref country code: CH Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20150331 Ref country code: DE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20151001 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: AT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20150330 Ref country code: MT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20131002 Ref country code: FR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20150331 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: PL Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20150330 Ref country code: BG Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20131002 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: HU Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO Effective date: 20070330 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: ES Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20150331 Ref country code: NL Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20150401 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: BE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20150331 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: TR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20150330 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: ES Ref legal event code: FD2A Effective date: 20180706 |