EP3306027B1 - Electromechanical actuator and blind with slats comprising such an actuator - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an electromechanical actuator.

The present invention also relates to a slat blind comprising a rail and a screen provided with slats. The screen is driven in displacement by such an electromechanical actuator arranged inside the rail.

In general, the present invention relates to the field of concealment devices comprising a motorized drive device setting in motion a screen, between at least a first position and at least a second position.

A motorized drive device comprises an electromechanical actuator of a movable element for solar protection or for closing, such as a blind with slats or any other equivalent material, hereinafter called a screen.

There are already known electromechanical actuators of a slat blind comprising a casing, an electric motor, an electronic control unit and a switching device. The switching device makes it possible to detect a high position of a screen of the blind. The high position corresponds to a pressing of a first blade of the screen against an element of the switching device.

The switching device includes a housing, a first member and a second member. The first member is integral with the housing. The first member is configured to be fixed on a first wall of the housing or on a second wall of the housing. The first wall of the housing is opposite the second wall of the housing. The second member is movable relative to the first member.

However, these actuators have the drawback of producing the switching device by means of a magnet intended to move relative to a magnetic field detector, in particular of the Hall effect type. The magnet is arranged inside the second member. The magnetic field detector is arranged inside the housing. A detection of reaching the high position is generated by the approximation of the magnet relative to the magnetic field detector, during a relative movement of the second member relative to the first member between a first and a second position.

Consequently, such actuators, comprising a switching device produced by means of a magnet and a magnetic field detector, have high production costs.

In addition, such a switching device comprising the magnet and the magnetic field detector has the drawback of generating untimely detections of the upper position of the awning screen. These untimely detections of the high position are generated when the magnet approaches the magnetic field detector, in particular, in cases where the orientation of the first screen blade is modified near the second member comprising the magnet. In addition, these untimely detections of the high position are linked to the speed of movement of the screen and to the movement of movement of the second member relative to the first member. Such untimely detections are due to successive passages by the switching device between a state of high position reached and a state of high position not reached.

Such untimely detections cause the fault of an algorithm implemented in a microcontroller of the electronic control unit.

Consequently, this phenomenon of successive passages between the state of high position reached and the state of high position not reached causes a malfunction of the electronic control unit of the electromechanical actuator preventing movement of the screen, in particular for the deployment of the screen, and therefore requiring intervention to reset the electronic control unit.

We also know the document EP 2,546,452 A2 which describes an electromechanical actuator of a slatted blind comprising a casing, an electric motor, an electronic control unit and a switching device. The switching device includes a housing, a first member and a second member. The first member is integral with the housing. The second member is movable relative to the first member. The switching device also includes a magnet and a magnetic field detector generated by the magnet, which can be considered to form a switch. The magnet is intended to move during a relative movement of the second member with respect to the first member.

The object of the present invention is to solve the aforementioned drawbacks and to provide an electromechanical actuator for a slat blind, as well as a slat blind comprising such an actuator, making it possible to minimize the costs of obtaining a switching device. and to simplify the construction and assembly of the switching device, while guaranteeing the operating reliability of the actuator.

• un carter,
• un moteur électrique,
• une unité électronique de contrôle, et
• un dispositif de commutation.

To this end, the present invention relates, according to a first aspect, to an electromechanical actuator of a slatted blind comprising at least:

• a housing,
• an electric motor,
• an electronic control unit, and
• a switching device.

• un boîtier,
• un premier organe, le premier organe étant solidaire du boîtier,
• un deuxième organe, le deuxième organe étant mobile par rapport au premier organe, et
• un interrupteur.

The switching device comprises at least:

• a housing,
• a first member, the first member being integral with the housing,
• a second member, the second member being movable relative to the first member, and
• a switch.

• un premier levier, le premier levier comprenant une première extrémité et une deuxième extrémité, la deuxième extrémité du premier levier étant opposée à la première extrémité du premier levier,
• un deuxième levier, le deuxième levier comprenant une première extrémité et une deuxième extrémité, la deuxième extrémité du deuxième levier étant opposée à la première extrémité du deuxième levier, et
• une lame ressort, la lame ressort comprenant un premier bras et un deuxième bras, la deuxième extrémité du premier levier étant configurée pour coopérer avec le premier bras de la lame ressort, la deuxième extrémité du deuxième levier étant configurée pour coopérer avec le deuxième bras de la lame ressort.

According to the invention, the switching device also comprises:

• a first lever, the first lever comprising a first end and a second end, the second end of the first lever being opposite the first end of the first lever,
• a second lever, the second lever comprising a first end and a second end, the second end of the second lever being opposite the first end of the second lever, and
• a leaf spring, the leaf spring comprising a first arm and a second arm, the second end of the first lever being configured to cooperate with the first arm of the leaf spring, the second end of the second lever being configured to cooperate with the second arm of the blade comes out.

The first member is configured to be fixed to a first wall of the housing or to a second wall of the housing, the first wall of the housing being opposite the second wall of the housing.

Each of the first and second arms of the leaf spring is configured to cooperate with the switch.

In addition, the second member is configured to cooperate with the first end of the first lever, in the case where the first member is fixed to the first wall of the housing, or with the first end of the second lever, in the case where the first member is attached to the second wall of the housing.

Thus, the switching device makes it possible to detect a high position of a screen of the blind by means of mechanical components. In addition, the switching device comprises a limited number of components. Consequently, the costs of obtaining the switching device are low.

Furthermore, such an assembly of the switching device makes it possible to position the first and second members at the level of the first wall of the housing or at the level of the second wall of the housing, so that the electromechanical actuator can be mounted in a first direction or in a second direction depending on the mounting configuration with the rail.

In this way, the detection of the upper position of the screen of the blind can be implemented whatever the mounting configuration of the electromechanical actuator with the rail, in particular according to a so-called "U" mounting or according to a assembly says "N".

In addition, such a switching device, which includes the first and second levers, the leaf spring and the switch, makes it possible to overcome the phenomenon of successive passages between the state of high position reached and the state of high position. not reached. This phenomenon can cause the electronic control unit to fail, as described above, since the switch sends a binary signal to the electronic control unit. The switch can only take two open or closed operating states. The operating states of the switch are dependent on the position of the first arm or the second arm of the leaf spring, depending on the configuration of assembly of the first member on the housing. In addition, the position of the first arm or the second arm of the leaf spring is caused by the displacement or non-displacement of the second member relative to the first member.

In this way, the switch cannot oscillate between the two operating states, like the magnetic detection switching device described above.

According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, the switching device also comprises a first membrane and a second membrane. The first membrane is assembled on the housing and disposed in a first opening formed in the first wall of the housing. The second membrane is assembled on the housing and arranged in a second opening formed in the second wall of the housing. In addition, the second member is configured to cooperate with the first end of the first lever via the first membrane, in the case where the first member is fixed to the first wall of the housing. The second member is configured to cooperate with the first end of the second lever via the second membrane, in the case where the first member is fixed to the second wall of the housing.

Preferably, a connection between the first membrane, respectively the second membrane, and the first wall of the housing, respectively the second wall of the housing, is sealed.

Advantageously, each of the first and second membranes is produced in the form of a bellows, so as to deform elastically, as a function of a force exerted by the second member against a surface thereof.

According to another advantageous characteristic of the invention, the switching device also comprises a support. The support is arranged inside the housing. In addition, the support comprises a first housing receiving the first lever, a second housing receiving the second lever and elements for holding the leaf spring.

Preferably, the support also comprises at least a first stop configured to cooperate with the first arm of the leaf spring and at least one second stop configured to cooperate with the second arm of the leaf spring.

Advantageously, the electronic control unit is disposed inside the housing of the switching device.

According to another advantageous characteristic of the invention, the electronic control unit comprises a printed circuit board. In addition, the switch is assembled on the printed circuit board.

Advantageously, each of the first and second levers comprises a body. The first end of each of the first and second levers includes a head. In addition, the head of the first end of each of the first and second levers has a section of dimension greater than that of the section of the body thereof.

The present invention relates, according to a second aspect, to a slat blind comprising a rail and a screen comprising slats. The screen is driven in displacement by an electromechanical actuator, according to the invention, arranged inside the rail.

This slat blind has characteristics and advantages similar to those described above in relation to the electromechanical actuator according to the invention, as mentioned above.

• la figure 1 est une vue schématique en perspective d'un store à lames orientables conforme à un mode de réalisation de l'invention ;
• la figure 2 est une vue schématique en perspective d'un actionneur électromécanique assemblé dans un rail du store illustré à la figure 1, selon un premier mode de montage ;
• la figure 3 est une vue analogue à la figure 2, lorsque l'actionneur électromécanique est assemblé dans le rail selon un deuxième mode de montage ;

• la figure 4 est une vue schématique en perspective écorchée d'un dispositif de commutation de l'actionneur illustré aux figures 2 et 3 ; et
• la figure 5 est une vue schématique en perspective éclatée du dispositif de commutation illustré à la figure 4.

Other features and advantages of the invention will appear in the following description, given with reference to the accompanying drawings, given by way of non-limiting examples:

• the figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a blind with adjustable slats according to an embodiment of the invention;
• the figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of an electromechanical actuator assembled in a rail of the blind illustrated in figure 1 , according to a first mounting method;
• the figure 3 is a view analogous to the figure 2 , when the actuator electromechanical is assembled in the rail according to a second mounting method;

• the figure 4 is a schematic cutaway perspective view of an actuator switching device illustrated in figures 2 and 3 ; and
• the figure 5 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the switching device illustrated in figure 4 .

We first describe, with reference to the figure 1 , a home automation installation according to the invention and installed in a building, not shown, comprising an opening, window or door, equipped with a screen 2 belonging to a blackout device 1, in particular a motorized blind.

The concealment device 1 can be placed outside the building or even inside the building.

We describe, with reference to Figures 1 to 3 , a blind with adjustable slats according to one embodiment of the invention.

The blind 1 comprises blades 3, in particular adjustable. The blind 1 can also include a load bar 4. Here, the screen 2 is formed by the blades 3 and the load bar 4. The load bar 4 makes it possible to exert tension on the screen 2.

In practice, the load bar 4 is fixed at a lower end of the screen 2, in the assembled configuration of the blind 1 in the home automation installation.

As a variant, the screen 2 comprises a final blade replacing the load bar 4, which can be ballasted.

The blind 1 comprises drive cords 5 configured to allow the vertical movement of the blades 3 and of the load bar 4. The drive cords 5 can also be called laces.

In practice, the blades 3 respectively comprise an opening 10 for the passage of each drive cord 5.

In the embodiment illustrated in figure 1 , the blind 1 also includes orientation cords 6 configured to allow the orientation of the blades 3. The orientation cords 6 are also called ladders.

The orientation of the blades 3 makes it possible, in particular, to adjust the brightness inside a room in the building.

When raising the screen 2 and, in particular, the load bar 4, the blades 3 are superimposed on the load bar 4, so as to form a stack.

In an exemplary embodiment, not shown, the blind 1 comprises two slides. Each of the slides is arranged along one side of the screen 2 of the blind 1. The slides are configured to cooperate with the blades 3 of the screen 2, so as to guide the blades 3, during the deployment and folding of the screen 2.

In another exemplary embodiment, not shown, the blades 3 are guided by two cables. Each of the cables is arranged along one side of the screen 2 of the blind 1.

The blind 1 comprises a motorized drive device 7. The motorized drive device 7 comprises an electromechanical actuator 8. The electromechanical actuator 8 makes it possible to lower or mount the blades 3 and the load bar 4, in other words to deploy or to fold the screen 2. The electromechanical actuator 8 also makes it possible to orient the blades 3.

The blind 1 comprises a rail 9, inside which is placed the motorized drive device 7 and, in particular, the electromechanical actuator 8.

The rail 9 is arranged above the screen 2.

In general, the rail 9 is disposed above the opening of the building, or even in the upper part of the opening of the building.

The rail 9 comprises a bottom wall 9a and two side walls 9b.

In a first mounting method illustrated in figures 1 and 2 , the rail 9 has a U-shaped section.

In a second mounting method illustrated in figure 3 , the rail 9 has a section in the shape of an inverted "U", generally called "N".

The motorized drive device 7 comprises a plurality of reels, not shown. The reels are configured to wind and unwind the drive cords 5, so as to cause the vertical displacement of the blades 3 and of the load bar 4.

Here, the motorized drive device 7 comprises two reels.

The number of reels is not limiting and may be different, in particular more than two.

The drive cords 5 are connected, on the one hand, to the load bar 4 and, on the other hand, to the reels.

In practice, the lower end of each drive cord 5 is connected to the load bar 4 and the upper end of each drive cord 5 is connected to one of the reels, in the assembled configuration of the blind 1 in the home automation installation.

Preferably, the reels are arranged inside the rail 9.

In one embodiment, the reels are also configured to wind and unwind the orientation cords 6, so as to orient the blades 3.

Advantageously, the motorized drive device 7 comprises tilting devices 13, generally called "rockers". The reels are respectively arranged inside a rocker 13.

In addition, the rockers 13 are arranged inside the rail 9.

In the embodiment illustrated in figure 1 , the motorized drive device 7 comprises two rockers 13.

The number of rockers is not limiting and may be different, in particular more than two. In the case where the number of rockers is greater than or equal to two, the electromechanical actuator is disposed between two of the rockers.

Here, the rockers 13 are arranged on either side of the electromechanical actuator 8. More precisely, each rocker 13 is arranged at a longitudinal end of the rail 9.

The motorized drive device 7 is controlled by a control unit. The control unit can be, for example, a local control unit 14. The local control unit 14 can be connected in wired or wireless connection with a central control unit 15. The central control unit 15 controls the local control unit 14, as well as other similar local control units distributed throughout the building.

The central control unit 15 can be in communication with a remote weather station outside the building, including, in particular, one or more sensors which can be configured to determine, for example, a temperature, a brightness, or even a speed Wind.

A remote control 16, which can be a type of local control unit, is provided with a control keyboard. The control keyboard comprises selection and display means, allowing, in addition, a user to intervene on the electromechanical actuator 8 and / or the central control unit 15.

The motorized drive device 7 is preferably configured to execute the commands for deploying or folding the screen 2 of the blind 1, as well as for orienting the blades 3, which can be emitted, in particular, by the remote control 16 .

We will now describe in more detail and with reference to Figures 1 to 3 , the electromechanical actuator 8 of the motorized drive device 7 belonging to the blind 1 of the figure 1 .

The electromechanical actuator 8 comprises a casing 17, an electric motor 18 and an electronic control unit 19.

The electric motor 18 comprises a rotor and a stator, not shown and positioned coaxially around an axis of rotation X, which is also the axis of rotation of the reels, in the mounted configuration of the motorized drive device 7.

The electromechanical actuator 8 is supplied with electrical energy by a mains power supply network, or even by means of a battery, which can be recharged, for example, by a photovoltaic panel. The electromechanical actuator 8 makes it possible to move the screen 2 of the blind 1, in particular in a vertical movement, as well as to orient the blades 3 of the screen 2.

The electromechanical actuator 8 comprises an electrical supply cable, not shown, allowing it to be supplied with electrical energy, from the mains supply network or from the battery.

The casing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 8 is preferably of generally parallelepipedal shape.

In one embodiment, the casing 17 is made of a metallic material.

The material of the electromechanical actuator housing is not limiting and may be different. It may, in particular, be a plastic material.

The electromechanical actuator 8 also comprises a gear reduction device, not shown, and at least one output shaft 20.

Here and as illustrated in figures 2 and 3 , the electromechanical actuator 8 comprises two output shafts 20, so as to drive one of the reels in rotation respectively. Each output shaft 20 opens on one side of the casing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 8. Each output shaft 20 is connected to a drive shaft 11 of one of the winders by means of fixing elements, not shown. The fastening elements of each output shaft 20 to one of the drive shafts 11 are, for example, screw fastening elements.

Each reel is thus driven in rotation, at one of the rockers 13, by one of the drive shafts 11 coupled with one of the output shafts 20 of the electromechanical actuator 8.

Advantageously, the electric motor 18 and the gear reduction device are arranged inside the casing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 8.

Control means of the electromechanical actuator 8, allowing the displacement of the screen 2 of the blind 1 as well as the orientation of the blades 3 of the screen 2, comprise at least the electronic control unit 19. This electronic unit control 19 is able to operate the electric motor 18 of the actuator electromechanical 8 and, in particular, allow the supply of electrical energy to the electric motor 18.

Thus, the electronic control unit 19 controls, in particular, the electric motor 18, so as to open or close the screen 2, as well as to orient the blades 3 of the screen 2, as described above.

The electronic control unit 19 also comprises a module for receiving control orders, the control orders being sent by an order transmitter, such as the remote control 16 intended for controlling the electromechanical actuator 8 or one of the local control unit 14 or central control unit 15.

Preferably, the module for receiving control orders from the electronic control unit 19 is of the wireless type. In particular, the command command reception module is configured to receive radio command commands.

The control command reception module can also allow the reception of control commands transmitted by wired means.

The control means of the electromechanical actuator 8 comprise hardware and / or software means.

By way of non-limiting example, the hardware means can comprise at least one microcontroller.

The electromechanical actuator 8 also includes a switching device 21.

In the case of a slat blind, a high position, in particular a safety position, corresponds to a pressing of a first blade 3h of the screen 2 against an element of the switching device 21.

The first blade 3h of the screen 2 corresponds to the upper blade 3 of the screen 2, in the assembled configuration of the blind 1 in the home automation installation.

The switching device 21 makes it possible, in particular, to determine that the upper position of the screen 2 has been reached.

A high end-of-travel position, in particular of operating position, corresponds to a predetermined high end-of-travel position, in particular by means of a end-of-travel detection device 12, as illustrated in FIG. figure 5 .

In addition, a low end-of-travel position corresponds to a predetermined low end-of-travel position, in particular by means of the end-of-travel detection device 12, or when the load bar 4 is pressed against a threshold of the opening of the building, or even the complete deployment of the screen 2.

Here, the limit switch detection device 12 is of the magnetic type and assembled on one of the output shafts 20 of the electromechanical actuator 8. Such a limit switch detection device 12 comprises at least one wheel 46 and Hall effect sensors, not shown.

The type of end-of-travel detection device is not limiting and may be different, in particular of the time type and produced through a microcontroller of the electronic control unit.

We will now describe in more detail and with reference to figures 4 and 5 , the switching device 21 of the electromechanical actuator 8.

The switching device 21 comprises a housing 22.

Here, the housing 22 of the switching device 21 is fixed to the casing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 8 by means of fixing elements 50.

Here and as illustrated in figures 4 and 5 , the fastening elements 50 of the housing 22 on the casing 17 are elastic snap-fastening elements.

The type of elements for fixing the housing to the casing is not limiting and may be different. It may, in particular, be fixing elements by screwing.

The switching device 21 also includes a first member 23 and a second member 24. The first member 23 is integral with the housing 22.

The first member 23 is configured to be fixed on a first wall 22a of the housing 22 or on a second wall 22b of the housing 22. The first wall 22a of the housing 22 is opposite to the second wall 22b of the housing 22.

Here, the housing 22 is of generally parallelepiped shape. The housing 22 comprises the first wall 22a, which is the upper wall in the configuration of the figures 4 and 5 , the second wall 22b, which is the bottom wall in the configuration of the figures 4 and 5 , and four side walls 22c, generally perpendicular to the walls 22a, 22b and between them.

The first member 23 is fixed to the housing 22 by means of fixing elements 25.

Here and as illustrated in figures 4 and 5 , the fastening elements 25 of the first member 23 on the housing 22 are elastic snap-in elements.

In this exemplary embodiment, the fastening elements 25 comprise elastic tabs formed on the first member 23 and configured to cooperate with slots in the housing 22. The slots are formed, on the one hand, in the first wall 22a of the housing 22 and, on the other hand, in the second wall 22b of the housing 22.

Here, the first member 23 comprises two elastic tabs configured to cooperate respectively with a slot in the housing 22.

The number and type of fastening elements of the first member on the housing are not limiting and may be different. The number of fixing elements of the first member on the housing can be greater than two. In addition, the fixing elements can be screw fixing elements.

The fixing of the first member 23 either on the first wall 22a of the housing 22 or on the second wall 22b of the housing 22 ensures the reversibility of the switching device 21, in particular as a function of the direction of mounting of the electromechanical actuator 8 in the blind rail 1.

The second member 24 is movable relative to the first member 23.

Advantageously, the second member 24 is movable relative to the first member 23 in a translational movement.

In the embodiment illustrated in figure 5 , the first member 23 comprises a housing 26, inside which is partially disposed the second member 24. In addition, the first member 23 comprises a barrel 27 disposed in the center of the housing 26 and configured to cooperate with a hole, not shown , formed in the second organ 24.

Here, during the translational movement of the second member 24 relative to the first member 23, the second member 24 is guided inside the housing 26 of the first member 23 by the complementary shapes of the first and second members 23, 24, in in particular by the outline of the second member 24 and the outline of the housing 26 of the first member 23. In addition, the second member 24 is centered relative to the first member 23 by means of the barrel 27 of the first member 23 sliding inside the hole in the second organ 24.

In the embodiment illustrated in figures 2 to 5 , the second member 24 is produced by means of three parts, called first part 24a, second part 24b and third part 24c, in the following. The first part 24a of the second member 24 is a part cooperating with the first member 23, in particular to allow the sliding of the second member 24 relative to the first member 23. The second piece 24b of the second member 24 is an intermediate piece configured to increase the length of the second member 24, as a function of the distance between the switching device 21 and the first blade 3h of the screen 2 in the high position. The third part 24c of the second member 24 is a plug, configured to close one end of the second member 24, in particular the end of the second member 24 opposite to that cooperating with the first member 23.

The second part 24b is optional, so that the third part 24c can be assembled directly on the first part 24a.

The number of parts of the second member is not limiting and may be different, in particular one or two parts.

Here, the parts 24a, 24b, 24c of the second member 24 are fixed to each other by elastic snap fastening elements.

The type of fastening elements for the parts of the second member 24 between them is not limiting and may be different. It may, in particular, be a fixing by gluing.

The first member 23 and the second member 24 form a first sub-assembly of the switching device 21. The first sub-assembly of the switching device 21 is arranged outside the housing 22. Such a first sub-assembly of the switching device switching 21 is generally called "mushroom".

In practice, the second member 24 of the switching device 21 is configured to be moved by the first blade 3h of the screen 2, relative to the first member 23, when the screen 2 reaches the high position.

Thus, the movement of the second member 24 of the switching device 21 relative to the first member 23, in a direction of approach of the second member 24 relative to the housing 22, results from a movement of the first blade 3h of the screen 2 towards the high position, during the activation of the electromechanical actuator 8. The displacement of the first blade 3h of the screen 2 is implemented by the activation of the electromechanical actuator 8 and the winding of the cords d drive 5 around the reels.

This movement of the second member 24 of the switching device 21 relative to the first member 23 by means of the first blade 3h of the screen 2 corresponds to the reaching of the high position of the screen 2.

In this way, when this movement of the second member has been detected, the electronic control unit 19 controls the stopping of the electric motor 18 of the electromechanical actuator 8.

Advantageously, at least part of the switching device 21 is disposed outside of the rail 9. The part of the switching device 21 disposed outside of the rail 9 corresponds to at least part of the first sub-assembly of the device switching 21.

Here, another part of the switching device 21 is arranged inside the rail 9, in particular the housing 22, as well as the elements assembled inside of it.

In the first mounting method illustrated in figure 2 , the second member 24 of the switching device 21 extends under the bottom wall 9a of the rail 9, in the assembled configuration of the blind 1 in the home automation installation. In this case, the first sub-assembly or mushroom of the switching device 21 passes through an opening, not shown, formed in the bottom wall 9a of the rail 9.

In the second mounting method illustrated in figure 3 , the second member 24 of the switching device 21 extends under the rail 9 from the ends of the side walls 9b of the rail 9, in the assembled configuration of the blind 1 in the home automation installation.

The second member 24 of the switching device 21 is configured to be moved between a first position, called the rest position, in which no contact is made between the second member 24 and the first blade 3h of the screen 2, and a second position, called the screen 2 upper position detection position, in which the first blade 3h of the screen 2 is in contact with the second member 24.

The switching device 21 also includes a first lever 28, a second lever 29, a leaf spring 30 and a switch 41.

The switch 41 makes it possible to detect the high position of the screen 2 of the blind 1.

Here, the switching device 21 comprises a single switch 41 for detecting the high position of the screen 2 of the blind 1.

Thus, the costs of obtaining the switching device 21 are minimized.

The first lever 28 includes a first end 28a and a second end 28b. The second end 28b of the first lever 28 is opposite the first end 28a of the first lever 28.

The second lever 29 includes a first end 29a and a second end 29b. The second end 29b of the second lever 29 is opposite the first end 29a of the second lever 29.

The leaf spring 30 comprises a first arm 30a and a second arm 30b.

Here and as illustrated in figure 5 , the leaf spring 30 also includes a base 30c. The first and second arms 30a, 30b are connected to the base 30c.

In practice, the first and second arms 30a, 30b and the base 30c of the spring leaf 30 form only one piece.

The second end 28b of the first lever 28 is configured to cooperate with the first arm 30a of the spring leaf 30.

Thus, the first arm 30a of the spring blade 30 maintains the first lever 28 in a rest position by elastic return, as long as no support is exerted on the first lever 28, in the direction of movement F1 of the first arm 30a of the leaf spring 30 towards the switch 41, as illustrated in the figure 4 and, in particular, on the second member 24.

The second end 29b of the second lever 29 is configured to cooperate with the second arm 30b of the leaf spring 30.

Thus, the second arm 30b of the spring blade 30 maintains the second lever 29 in a rest position by elastic return, as long as no support is exerted on the second lever 29, in the direction of movement F2 of the second arm 30b of the leaf spring 30 towards the switch 41, as illustrated in the figure 4 and, in particular, on the second member 24.

In this way, the first and second arms 30a, 30b of the spring blade 30 allow the first and second levers 28, 29 to be kept in the rest position without having to add an elastic return element between the second member 24 and the first lever. 28 or the second lever 29, depending on the configuration of assembly of the first member 23 on the housing 22.

Each of the first and second arms 30a, 30b of the leaf spring 30 is configured to cooperate with the switch 41.

The second member 24 is configured to cooperate with the first end 28a of the first lever 28, in the case where the first member 23 is fixed on the first wall 22a of the housing 22, or with the first end 29a of the second lever 29, in the case where the first member 23 is fixed to the second wall 22b of the housing 22.

Thus, the switching device 21 makes it possible to detect the high position of the screen 2 of the blind 1 by means of mechanical components. In addition, the switching device 21 comprises a limited number of components. Consequently, the costs of obtaining the switching device 21 are low.

Furthermore, such an assembly of the switching device 21 makes it possible to position the first and second members 23, 24 at the level of the first wall 22a of the housing 22 or at the level of the second wall 22b of the housing 22, so that the actuator electromechanical 8 can be mounted in a first direction or in a second direction depending on the mounting configuration with the rail 9.

In this way, the detection of the high position of the screen 2 of the blind 1 can be implemented regardless of the mounting configuration of the electromechanical actuator 8 with the rail 9, that is to say according to the “U” shaped assembly, as illustrated in figure 2 , or according to the assembly called "N", as illustrated in the figure 3 .

The first and second levers 28, 29 are movable inside the housing 22.

The second member 24 is configured to move the first lever 28 towards the first arm 30a of the spring leaf 30, in the case where the first member 23 is fixed on the first wall 22a of the housing 22 and when the second member 24 is moved by relative to the first member 23 in the direction of the first end 28a of the first lever 28, that is to say in the direction of the housing 22 as envisaged above.

The second member 24 is configured to move the second lever 29 towards the second arm 30b of the spring leaf 30, in the case where the first member 23 is fixed on the second wall 22b of the housing 22 and when the second member 24 is moved by relative to the first member 23 in the direction of the first end 29a of the second lever 29, that is to say in the direction of the housing 22 as envisaged above.

The first and second levers 28, 29, the leaf spring 30 and the switch 41 form a second sub-assembly of the switching device 21. The second sub-assembly of the switching device 21 is arranged inside the housing 22 and , in particular, in a housing 33 of the housing 22.

Here, each of the first and second arms 30a, 30b of the spring leaf 30 comprises a tab 30d cooperating with a push button 41a of the switch 41.

In the embodiment illustrated in figures 4 and 5 , the tab 30d of each of the first and second arms 30a, 30b extends in a plane perpendicular to the plane in which each of the first and second arms 30a, 30b extends.

Advantageously, the switching device 21 also includes a first membrane 34 and a second membrane 35. The first membrane 34 is assembled on the housing 22 and disposed in a first opening 36 formed in the first wall 22a of the housing 22. The second membrane 35 is assembled on the housing 22 and disposed in a second opening, not shown, formed in the second wall 22b of the housing 22.

Thus, the first and second membranes 34, 35 make it possible to close the first and second openings 36 formed in the housing 22.

Advantageously, the first and second members 23, 24 are arranged opposite one of the first and second membranes 34, 35.

Thus, only one of the first and second membranes 34, 35 is covered by the first and second members 23, 24. The membrane 34, 35 covered by the first and second members 23, 24 is linked to the assembly configuration of the first member 23 on the housing 22, either on the first wall 22a, or on the second wall 22b.

Advantageously, the second member 24 is configured to cooperate with the first end 28a of the first lever 28 via the first membrane 34, in the case where the first member 23 is fixed on the first wall 22a of the housing 22. In addition, the second member 24 is configured to cooperate with the first end 29a of the second lever 29 via the second membrane 35 , in the case where the first member 23 is fixed on the second wall 22b of the housing 22.

In practice, the second member 24 exerts a thrust force on the first end 28a, 29a of the lever 28, 29 by deforming the membrane 34, 35, without puncturing it. A movement of the lever 28, 29 in the housing 22, under the effect of the force exerted by the second member 24 is possible due to the elastically deformable nature of the membrane 34, 35.

Preferably, a connection between the first membrane 34, respectively the second membrane 35, and the first wall 22a of the housing 22, respectively the second wall 22b of the housing 22, is sealed.

Thus, the first and second membranes 34, 35 installed at the first and second openings 36 of the housing 22 make it possible to guarantee the tightness of the switching device 21, in particular at the level of the first and second openings 36 of the housing 22.

In this way, the housing 22 is sealed at its first and second openings 36, following the assembly of the first and second membranes 34, 35, so as to avoid infiltration of water or dirt inside the housing 22.

In addition, the first and second membranes 34, 35 make it possible to guarantee the tightness of the housing 22 at the level of the first and second openings 36, whatever the assembly position of the first member 23 on the housing 22.

The tightness of the connection between the first membrane 34, respectively the second membrane 35, with the first wall 22a of the housing 22, respectively the second wall 22b of the housing 22, is guaranteed by the shape of the first and second membranes 34, 35 and first and second openings 36 formed in the housing 22.

Advantageously, each of the first and second membranes 34, 35 is produced in the form of a bellows, so as to deform elastically, as a function of a force exerted by the second member 24 against a surface thereof.

Thus, the first and second membranes 34, 35 are configured to deform elastically, in particular, when they are pressed on them by means of the second member 24.

Advantageously, the second member 24 comprises stops 32 configured to cooperate with stops 37 of the first member 23, when the first lever 28 or the second lever 29 is held in the rest position by the leaf spring 30, respectively by the first arm 30a or the second arm 30b, depending on the configuration of assembly of the first member 23 on the housing 22.

Thus, the cooperation of the stops 32 of the second member 24 with the stops 37 of the first member 23 ensures that the second member 24 is held relative to the first member 23, under the effect of the elastic return of the first and second membranes 34, 35 .

Advantageously, each of the first and second levers 28, 29 comprises a body 28c, 29c, in particular of elongated shape. The first end 28a, 29a of each of the first and second levers 28, 29 comprises a head 28d, 29d. The head 28d, 29d of the first end 28a, 29a of each of the first and second levers 28, 29 has a section of dimension greater than that of the section of the body 28c, 29c thereof.

Thus, the bearing surface of the first end 28a, 29a of each of the first and second levers 28, 29 with the second member 24 is greater, so as to improve the distribution of the force at the level of the second member 24 and , more particularly, on the first or second membrane 34, 35, depending on the configuration of assembly of the first member 23 on the housing 22.

In this way, the operating reliability of the switching device 21 is improved by avoiding damage to the second member 24, as well as the first or the second membrane 34, 35.

Here, the body 28c, 29c of the first and second levers 28, 29 is of cylindrical shape.

Advantageously, the switching device 21 comprises a first support 31. The first support 31 is disposed inside the housing 22. The first support 31 comprises a first housing 38 receiving the first lever 28, a second housing, not shown, receiving the second lever 29. The first support 31 also comprises elements 40 for holding the leaf spring 30.

Here, the first housing 38 and the second housing of the first support 31 have a circular section.

Advantageously, the first and second levers 28, 29 are respectively movable inside the first and second housings 38 of the first support 31.

Preferably, the first support 31 also comprises at least a first stop 39 configured to cooperate with the first arm 30a of the leaf spring 30 and at least a second stop 45 configured to cooperate with the second arm 30b of the leaf spring 30.

Thus, the first and second stops 39, 45 of the first support 31 respectively limit the travel of the first and second arms 30a, 30b of the leaf spring 30, when no force is exerted on the first and second arms 30a, 30b, in particular by the second organ 24.

In this way, in the rest position of the first and second arms 30a, 30b of the spring leaf 30, the first and second arms 30a, 30b can be in abutment against the first and second stops 39, 45 of the first support 31.

When the first blade 3h of the screen 2 is in a position different from the high position of the screen 2, the first or second membrane 34, 35 is configured to maintain or return the second member 24 to its rest position, in depending on the configuration of assembly of the first member 23 on the housing 22.

Here, the first support 31 comprises a single first stop 39 and a single second stop 45.

The number of stops configured to cooperate with the first and second arms of the leaf spring is not limiting and may be different, in particular greater than or equal to two.

Here, the first support 31 also includes a housing 47 configured to accommodate the wheel 46 of the end-of-travel detection device 12, as well as a reduction gear 48 of the speed of rotation of the wheel 46 relative to that of the output shaft 20 of the electromechanical actuator 8.

Advantageously, the electronic control unit 19 is disposed inside the housing 22 of the switching device 21.

In practice, the electronic control unit 19 comprises a first printed circuit plate 42. In addition, the switch 41 is assembled on the first printed circuit plate 42.

The electronic control unit 19 comprises a second printed circuit board 43. The first and second printed circuit boards 42, 43 are electrically connected to each other.

Here, the switch 41 is of the electromechanical type.

Advantageously, the switch 41 is electrically connected to the electronic control unit 19 and, in particular, to the first printed circuit board 42 by electrical conductors.

The switching device 21 also includes a second support 44. The second support 44 is disposed inside the housing 22. The second printed circuit board 43 is assembled on the second support 44.

The first support 31 is assembled with the second support 44 by means of fixing elements.

Here, the fastening elements of the first support 31 with the second support 44 are pins 49 of the first support 31 configured to cooperate with housings, not shown, formed in the second support 44.

Thanks to the present invention, the switching device makes it possible to detect a high position of a screen of the blind by means of mechanical components. In addition, the switching device comprises a limited number of components. Consequently, the costs of obtaining the switching device are low.

Furthermore, the mode of assembly of the switching device makes it possible to position the first and second members at the level of the first wall of the housing or at the level of the second wall of the housing, so that the electromechanical actuator can be mounted in a first direction or in a second direction depending on the mounting configuration with the rail.

In this way, the detection of the upper position of the screen of the blind can be implemented whatever the mounting configuration of the electromechanical actuator with the rail, in particular according to a so-called “U” mounting or according to a montage says "N".

Of course, numerous modifications can be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the scope of the invention defined by the claims.

In another exemplary embodiment, not shown, the motorized drive device 7 comprises a plurality of first winders of the drive cords 5 and a plurality of second winders of the orientation cords 6.

The drive cords 5 are connected, on the one hand, to the load bar 4 and, on the other hand, to the first reels. The orientation cords 6 are connected to the load bar 4, to the blades 3, as well as to the second reels.

In practice, the lower end of each drive cord 5 is connected to the load bar 4 and the upper end of each drive cord 5 is connected to one of the first winders, in the assembled configuration of the blind. 1 in the home automation system. The lower end of each orientation cord 6 is connected to the load bar 4 and the upper end of each orientation cord 6 is connected to one of the second winders, in the assembled configuration of the blind 1 in the home automation installation.

Preferably, the first and second reels are arranged inside the rail 9.

In another exemplary embodiment, not shown, the motorized drive device 7 comprises two drive and orientation chains for the blades 3 of the screen 2, replacing the drive cords 5 and the orientation cords 6.

In such a case, each chain is arranged inside one of the slides arranged along one side of the screen 2 of the blind 1.

In addition, the embodiments and variants envisaged can be combined to generate new embodiments of the invention, without departing from the scope of the invention defined by the claims.

Claims (10)

1. Electromechanical actuator (8) for a blind with slats (1), comprising at least:

   - a casing (17),

   - an electric motor (18),

   - an electronic control unit (19), and

   - a switching device (21),

   the switching device (21) comprising at least:

   - a housing (22),

   - a first member (23), the first member (23) being secured to the housing (22),

   - a second member (24), the second member (24) being movable relative to the first member (23), and

   - an interrupter (41),

   characterised in that the switching device (21) also comprises:

   - a first lever (28), the first lever (28) having a first end (28a) and a second end (28b), the second end (28b) of the first lever (28) being opposite the first end (28a) of the first lever (28),

   - a second lever (29), the second lever (29) having a first end (29a) and a second end (29b), the second end (29b) of the second lever (29) being opposite the first end (29a) of the second lever (29), and

   - a spring leaf (30), the spring leaf (30) having a first arm (30a) and a second arm (30b), the second end (28b) of the first lever (28) being configured to cooperate with the first arm (30a) of the spring leaf (30), the second end (29b) of the second lever (29) being configured to cooperate with the second arm (30b) of the spring leaf (30),

   in that the first member (23) is configured to be fixed to a first wall (22a) of the housing (22) or to a second wall (22b) of the housing (22), the first wall (22a) of the housing (22) being opposite the second wall (22b) of the housing (22),
   in that each of the first and second arms (30a, 30b) of the spring leaf (30) is configured to cooperate with the interrupter (41),
   and in that the second member (24) is configured to cooperate with the first end (28a) of the first lever (28), in the case where the first member (23) is fixed to the first wall (22a) of the housing (22), or with the first end (29a) of the second lever (29), in the case where the first member (23) is fixed to the second wall (22b) of the housing (22).
2. Electromechanical actuator (8) for a blind with slats (1) according to claim 1, characterised in that the switching device (21) also comprises:

   - a first membrane (34), the first membrane (34) being fitted on the housing (22) and arranged in a first opening (36) formed in the first wall (22a) of the housing (22), and

   - a second membrane (35), the second membrane (35) being fitted on the housing (22) and arranged in a second opening formed in the second wall (22b) of the housing (22),

   in that the second member (24) is configured to cooperate with the first end (28a) of the first lever (28) by way of the first membrane (34), in the case where the first member (23) is fixed to the first wall (22a) of the housing (22),
   and in that the second member (24) is configured to cooperate with the first end (29a) of the second lever (29) by way of the second membrane (35), in the case where the first member (23) is fixed to the second wall (22b) of the housing (22).
3. Electromechanical actuator (8) for a blind with slats (1) according to claim 2, characterised in that a connection between the first membrane (34), or the second membrane (35), and the first wall (22a) of the housing (22), or the second wall (22b) of the housing (22), is sealed.
4. Electromechanical actuator (8) for a blind with slats (1) according to claim 2 or claim 3, characterised in that each of the first and second membranes (34, 35) is produced in the form of a bellows, so as to deform elastically in dependence on a force exerted by the second member (24) against a surface thereof.
5. Electromechanical actuator (8) for a blind with slats (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the switching device (21) also comprises a support (31), the support (31) being arranged inside the housing (22), in that the support (31) comprises:

   - a first housing (38) which receives the first lever (28),

   - a second housingr which receives the second lever (29), and

   - holding elements (40) for the spring leaf (30).
6. Electromechanical actuator (8) for a blind with slats (1) according to claim 5, characterised in that the support (31) also comprises at least a first stop (39) configured to cooperate with the first arm (30a) of the spring leaf (30) and at least a second stop (45) configured to cooperate with the second arm (30b) of the spring leaf (30).
7. Electromechanical actuator (8) for a blind with slats (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the electronic control unit (19) is arranged inside the housing (22) of the switching device (21).
8. Electromechanical actuator (8) for a blind with slats (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterised in that the electronic control unit (19) comprises a printed circuit board (42), and in that the interrupter (41) is assembled on the printed circuit board (42).
9. Electromechanical actuator (8) for a blind with slats (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterised in that each of the first and second levers (28, 29) comprises a body (28c, 29c), in that the first end (28a, 29a) of each of the first and second levers (28, 29) comprises a head (28d, 29d), and in that the head (28d, 29d) of the first end (28a, 29a) of each of the first and second levers (28, 29) has a cross-section of a size greater than that of the cross-section of the body (28c, 29c) thereof.
10. Blind with slats (1) comprising a rail (9) and a screen (2) comprising slats (3), the screen (2) being driven in displacement by an electromechanical actuator (8) arranged inside the rail (9), characterised in that the electromechanical actuator (8) is in accordance with any one of claims 1 to 9.

Images