EP4635069A1 - Drive and control unit for the motor-driven displacement of sheets for pergolas and relative operation - Google Patents

Drive and control unit for the motor-driven displacement of sheets for pergolas and relative operation

Info

Publication number
EP4635069A1
EP4635069A1 EP23832824.9A EP23832824A EP4635069A1 EP 4635069 A1 EP4635069 A1 EP 4635069A1 EP 23832824 A EP23832824 A EP 23832824A EP 4635069 A1 EP4635069 A1 EP 4635069A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
motor
microcontroller
winding
covering element
signal
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.)
Pending
Application number
EP23832824.9A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Renato De Pazzi
Damiano Guzzo
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Master SpA
Original Assignee
Master SpA
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Master SpA filed Critical Master SpA
Publication of EP4635069A1 publication Critical patent/EP4635069A1/en
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02P—CONTROL OR REGULATION OF ELECTRIC MOTORS, ELECTRIC GENERATORS OR DYNAMO-ELECTRIC CONVERTERS; CONTROLLING TRANSFORMERS, REACTORS OR CHOKE COILS
    • H02P3/00—Arrangements for stopping or slowing electric motors, generators, or dynamo-electric converters
    • 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
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02P—CONTROL OR REGULATION OF ELECTRIC MOTORS, ELECTRIC GENERATORS OR DYNAMO-ELECTRIC CONVERTERS; CONTROLLING TRANSFORMERS, REACTORS OR CHOKE COILS
    • H02P23/00—Arrangements or methods for the control of AC motors characterised by a control method other than vector control
    • H02P23/0004—Control strategies in general, e.g. linear type, e.g. P, PI, PID, using robust control
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02P—CONTROL OR REGULATION OF ELECTRIC MOTORS, ELECTRIC GENERATORS OR DYNAMO-ELECTRIC CONVERTERS; CONTROLLING TRANSFORMERS, REACTORS OR CHOKE COILS
    • H02P6/00—Arrangements for controlling synchronous motors or other dynamo-electric motors using electronic commutation dependent on the rotor position; Electronic commutators therefor
    • H02P6/24—Arrangements for stopping
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02P—CONTROL OR REGULATION OF ELECTRIC MOTORS, ELECTRIC GENERATORS OR DYNAMO-ELECTRIC CONVERTERS; CONTROLLING TRANSFORMERS, REACTORS OR CHOKE COILS
    • H02P23/00—Arrangements or methods for the control of AC motors characterised by a control method other than vector control
    • H02P23/24—Controlling the direction, e.g. clockwise or counterclockwise

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a drive and control unit for the motor-driven displacement of sheets for covering pergolas, and relative operation, capable of automatically arranging the sheet of a pergola in the extended position with the correct tensioning, irrespective of the wear condition thereof or of the weather conditions.
  • the present invention also refers to a drive and control unit able to displace covering sheets of pergolas having significant size through at least a pair of electric motors, determining the operation thereof even if anomalies occur caused by overheating of one of the motors.
  • the movable outdoor covers commonly referred to as “pergolas”, provide for a fixed support structure comprising a plurality of pillars supporting a frame which surrounds a top opening and on which a movable covering element, generally formed by a flexible sheet made of waterproof polymeric material, such as for example nylon, possibly supported by a plurality of reinforcement stems, may slide along guides between a retracted position, in which it is folded, and an extended position, in which it covers the top opening.
  • a movable covering element generally formed by a flexible sheet made of waterproof polymeric material, such as for example nylon, possibly supported by a plurality of reinforcement stems
  • one or more electric motors power- supplied at the mains voltage drive a transmission shaft - connected to drive belts extending along a pair of parallel crosspieces of the frame - in rotation therefore displacing the sheet to the desired position.
  • the two end positions of the sheet are generally defined by setting relative limit switch, which block the power-supply to the motors designed to drive the shaft and held mechanically locking the sheet to the frame or to the support structure.
  • the limit switch relating to the extended position of the sheet must provide a tensioning condition of the latter capable of providing a good resistance against atmospheric agents, such as wind and rain, further allowing the correct drainage of rainwater without forming hazardous sacs and maintaining an appropriate stability in the event of vibrations caused by strong wind gusts.
  • the initially set limit switch of the sheet may be no longer suitable to ensure the correct tensioning thereof.
  • the Italian patent No. 1340589 discloses a control and drive device for electric motors for displacing the cover sheet of a pergola capable of automatically arranging the sheet in the extended position irrespective of the wear condition of the frame or the weather conditions, wherein an angular speed digital encoding element, such as encoder, is entered into the sheet drive motor and operatively connected to a digital control unit for controlling the powersupply of said motor.
  • the start of the motor is determined by a signal provided by the user and the stop thereof by the detection of angular speeds smaller than a limit value pre-set as a function of the resistant torque related to the tension of the sheet.
  • the encoder may be formed by a magnetic disc keyed on the shaft of the motor and provided with two or more magnetic poles and by a Hall effect sensor installed at a distance such to be conditioned by the polarity of the magnet, to detect the alternation between positive poles and negative poles, therefore generating an output signal formed by a square wave.
  • the encoder may be of the optical type.
  • the angular speed digital encoding element detects an intermittent signal, in which the high signal levels are separated from low levels having a progressively increasing duration, as shown in Fig. 2B.
  • the control unit detects that the duration of the separation ranges between the two subsequent high levels becomes greater than a pre-set reference value, the power-supply of the motor is cut off.
  • the parameters are established so that the cut off of the power-supply of the motor occurs when the sheet is tensioned.
  • Document US6215265 discloses a method and a unit for controlling the automatic stopping of electric motors that drive mobile elements, such as in particular roller shutters, rolling gates, jalousies, awnings or movie screens, which can be moved between a retracted position and an extended position with a predetermined path, in order to prevent these mobile elements from being damaged in the event of jamming due to obstacles while it is rolled up or down or when the mobile element reaches the end positions.
  • mobile elements such as in particular roller shutters, rolling gates, jalousies, awnings or movie screens
  • Said drive and control unit is adapted to continuously detect the torque of the electric motor so that the latter can be deactivated either when a predefined torque is exceeded or when a predefined change in torque is exceeded, wherein the motor torque is determined evaluating the phase shift between the two motor windings.
  • control unit of the type described above is to be able to recognize as soon as possible a potentially dangerous event for the mobile element, so as to be able to prevent or limit the damage; consequently, such unit is generally configured so that even a small value of phase shift detected, for example of 5 - 10%, leads to the electric motor being turned off.
  • the main task of the subject matter of the present invention is to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art, by providing a drive and control unit for the motor-driven displacement of cover sheets for pergolas capable of automatically arranging the sheet of a pergola at least in the extended position with the correct tensioning, irrespective of the wear condition thereof and the weather conditions, and by using an encoder-less motor.
  • a further object of the present invention is to provide a drive and control unit that is safe to use and effective in operation.
  • a further object of the present invention is to obtain a drive and control unit formed by component elements that are simple, readily available, cost-effective and adapted to be easily installed on a pergola.
  • FIG. 1 shows, in perspective view, a pergola structure on which there is mounted a control and drive unit of a cover sheet according to the present invention
  • FIG. 2A and 2B show the patterns of the signals transmitted by an encoder connected to the motor in a device of the prior art, respectively in a condition in which the sheet proceeds stably at a cruising speed and in a condition in which the sheet has reached the tensioning position;
  • FIG. 3A and 3B schematically show the drive and control unit for the motor-driven displacement of sheets for pergolas according to the present invention, respectively incorporating a motor without mechanical limit switch or a motor provided with mechanical limit switch;
  • FIG. 4A schematically shows the theoretical pattern of the signals relating to the windings of a motor, with a setting phase shift value B o ;
  • FIG. 4B and 4C schematically show the actual patterns of the signals relating to the windings of the motor detected by a drive and control unit according to the present invention respectively in a condition in which the sheet proceeds stably at a cruising speed and in a condition in which the sheet has reached an end position, in the absence of mechanical limit switches;
  • FIG. 5 schematically shows a first variant embodiment of a drive and control unit according to the present invention comprising a pair of electric motors;
  • FIG. 6 schematically shows a second variant embodiment of a drive and control unit according to the present invention comprising a pair of electric motors;
  • FIG. 7 shows a pergola structure according to the present invention, comprising an outer reference element and a detecting member positioned to determine the limit switch of the motor in the condition of the sheet being completely retracted.
  • pergola structure 100 provided with a movable covering element 10 and a drive and control unit associated thereto, indicated with reference numeral 2.
  • a pergola structure 100 which may be close to a wall of a building or independent, preferably comprises a plurality of pillars (not shown) which support a frame 110, flat or inclined, which acts as a frame for a top opening 12 and on which said covering element 10, generally formed by a flexible sheet made of polymeric material such as nylon possibly supported by a plurality of suitably distributed reinforcement stems 9, is applied with the possibility of being displaced between a retracted, or opening, position in which it is folded against a crosspiece of said frame 10 therefore leaving the top opening 12 of the structure 100 essentially free, and an extended, or closure, position in which it essentially covers the top opening 12 of the structure 100, being superimposed thereto.
  • Said sheet 10 is dragged through suitable transmission members 8, such as a pair of belts, extending in parallel side guides 7 provided for on said frame and connected to a driving shaft 11 , to which the cover sheet 10 is constrained by means of a first edge 10A.
  • suitable transmission members 8 such as a pair of belts
  • said drive and control unit 2 comprises at least a first electric motor 26 which can be power-supplied at the mains voltage, comprising at least one first winding AV1 and a second winding AV2, and operatively associated with said shaft 11 to impart the rotation thereof in the two directions, therefore allowing to displace the sheet 10 between the two operative positions.
  • Said first electric motor 26 is preferably of the hollow-shaft type, so that it can be arranged coaxial to the shaft 11 , or of another type (for example a tubular motor) so that it can be arranged externally to the shaft 1 1 and connected thereto using belts or gears.
  • said first electric motor 26 may be provided with conventional and known mechanical end-strokes.
  • said electric motor 26 is not provided with optical or magnetic means, such as encoders, for detecting the angular speed or electronic limit switch.
  • Said unit 2 further comprises first command and control means 21 , such as a first microcontroller operatively connected to said first motor 26 to determine the operating modes thereof.
  • first command and control means 21 such as a first microcontroller operatively connected to said first motor 26 to determine the operating modes thereof.
  • said first microcontroller 21 is connected to the fist motor 26 through a first control group 23 comprising a pair of relays R1 , R2, each adapted to allow/cut off the power supply to a respective winding AV1 , AV2 of the first motor 26.
  • the windings of the motor AV1 , AV2 are selectively power-supplied as a function of the rotation direction intended to be imparted to the shaft 11 , and therefore to the direction for displacing of the sheet between the retracted position and the extended position, as indicated by the arrow F of figure 1 .
  • the first motor 26 can be turned on by means of an input signal provided to the first microcontroller 21 through a control interface 22, also advantageously incorporated in the drive and control unit 2, adapted to communicate with the first microcontroller 21 and receive signals, data and/or instructions through the most widespread and common communication channels or methods, such as for example, radio frequencies, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth or with a wired physical control device, such as a button.
  • the input signals to determine the displacement of the sheet 10 from the retracted position to the extended position and vice versa may be provided by a user or possibly also by a weather sensor or the like.
  • said drive and control unit 2 further comprises a power supply unit 20 configured to receive the electric power supply from the external, for example through a carriercurrent cable connected to an external power source (not shown), preferably formed by a power supply mains, and transform the input mains voltage into a voltage adapted to power-supply said first microcontroller 21 , to which it is advantageously connected.
  • the power supply unit 20 may receive the electric power supply from one or more batteries which can be advantageously recharged with one or more external photovoltaic panels possibly mounted on the pergola 100.
  • said, drive and control unit 2 further comprises first detection means 24 associated with said first motor 26, preferably made from a circuit capable of detecting continuously or in series successive time instants since the starting of the first motor 26, a first signal 41 related to the current which passes through the first winding AV1 of the first motor 26 and a second signal 42 related to the current which passes through the second winding AV2 of the first motor 26, and transmit them to the first microcontroller 21.
  • the unit 2 bases its operation on the fact that, under normal operating conditions, that is when the sheet is running with a cruising speed, the signals relating to the windings of the motor have similar but offset patterns of a setting phase shift value B o dependent on the construction characteristics of the motor, as shown in Figure 4A.
  • Variations (in absolute value) of this phase shift between the two signals of the motor windings are caused by an increase in the torque delivered by the motor and therefore positively correlated with the achievement of a sheet end position.
  • the first microcontroller 21 of the unit 2 receives an input signal from the control interface 22, which can be received in various ways, for example through a physical or digital actuation button, via radio, or even through a signal coming from a weather sensor.
  • the first microcontroller 21 sends a command to the first control group 23 which closes one of the two relays R1 , R2 to power one of the two windings AV1 , AV2 of the first motor 26 to determine the rotational drive of the shaft 11 in the desired direction, that is such to allow the sheet 10 to move towards the extended position.
  • the detection means 24 start to detect, continuously or at successive intervals, a first signal 41 and a second signal 42 obtained from the current which passes through the first and second winding AV1 , AV2 of the motor 26 respectively, transferring such information to the first microcontroller 21 which determines the actual phase shift value BE between these two signals 41 , 42 at that moment.
  • the actual phase shift value B E between the two signals 41 , 42 has a value substantially equal to or close to the setting phase shift value Bo of the motor; as long as the variation AB between the actual phase shift value B E detected by said first detection means 24 and the setting phase shift value B o does not exceed a limit value X, the first microcontroller 21 determines that the shaft 11 is rotating at a cruising speed, without being subjected to any particular stresses, and as a result, it continues to power the first motor 26 in order to continue the operation for displacing the sheet in the desired direction.
  • the detection means 24 detect that the actual phase shift value BE between the first and second signal 41 , 42, differs progressively from the setting phase shift value Bo, and the phase shift variation AB depends on the instantaneous stress of the first motor 26.
  • the first microcontroller 21 verifies that the phase shift variation AB (in absolute value) detected by the first detection means 24 between said signals 41 , 42 exceeds a reference value X, it means that the sheet 10 has reached the extended position and is sufficiently stretched/tensioned; as a result, it cuts the power supply to the first motor 26, opening the corresponding relay pair R1 , R2 of the first control group 23, thereby keeping the sheet 10 in the extended and correctly tensioned position.
  • AB ⁇ B E - B O
  • BE the instantaneous actual phase shift value between the detected signals 41 , 42 relating to the two motor windings
  • B o is the setting phase shift value of the signals relating to the two motor windings
  • X is a reference value (or limit value)
  • the reference value X (or limit value) is advantageously pre-established and set so that the power cut to the first motor 26 occurs when the sheet is properly tensioned.
  • the reference value X is at least of 30%.
  • said reference value X may be changed following installation, by operating on said first microcontroller 21 for example through a dedicated button or using a remote control, in order to better adapt to the conditions of the sheet.
  • the unit 2 interrupts the power supply to the first motor 26 with the same criterion, i.e. upon detection of a variation of phase shift greater than the reference value X.
  • said first microcontroller 21 is also configured to interrupt the power supply at least of said first motor 26 also upon detection of an instantaneous actual phase shift value BE between said first and said second signal 41 , 42 which is essentially zero.
  • This condition in fact, can be caused for example by an overload which causes the motor windings to overheat, and therefore the interruption of the electrical supply allows to avoid damage to the motor itself.
  • a drive and control unit 2, 2" comprising a plurality of electric motors, operationally connected via specific interfaces that allow coordinated operation.
  • a drive and control unit 2' according to a first variant embodiment of the present invention is schematically illustrated, said unit 2’ comprising a first electric motor 26, a first microcontroller 21 , first detection means 24 and preferably also a first control group 23, a command interface 22 and a power supply unit 20.
  • Said drive and control unit 2' also comprises at least a second electric motor 26' adapted to displace said mobile covering element 10 together with said first electric motor 26 between said retracted position and said extended position, said second motor 26’ being powered by the mains voltage via a carrier line N and comprising a first winding AV1' and a second winding AV2'.
  • said second motor 26' is of the through-shaft type, preferably with the limit switches corresponding to both the end positions of the sheet deactivated, and is configured to be arranged coaxial to said drive shaft 11 .
  • said unit 2' further comprises a second control unit 23' comprising a pair of relays R1 ', R2', each suitable for allowing/interrupting the power supply to a respective winding AV1 ', AV2' of said second motor 26'.
  • said unit 2' is able to interrupt the power supply of both motors 26, 26' upon reaching the extended and tensioned condition of the sheet, i.e. by monitoring the phase shift variation AB of the windings AV1 , AV2 of the first motor 26 until the reference value X is exceeded.
  • said unit 2' is able to interrupt the power supply of both motors 26, 26' even when one of the two motors enters the thermal protection mode due to overheating or anomalies of operation.
  • said first detection means 24 detect an instantaneous actual phase shift value BE between said first and said second signals 41 , 42, which are related to said first and said second windings AV1 , AV2, essentially equal to zero, said first microcontroller 21 interrupts the power supply both to said first motor 26 and also to said second motor 26', deactivating the relays R1 ', R2' of said second control group 23' through said first cable 13.
  • a drive and control unit 2" according to a second variant embodiment of the present invention is schematically illustrated, said unit 2” comprising the component elements of the unit 2' according to the first variant embodiment.
  • said unit 2" also includes second detection means 24' associated with said second motor 26' and configured to detect a first signal 41 ' related to the supply current of the first winding AV1 ' of said second motor 26' and a second signal 42' related to the supply current of the second winding AV2' of said second motor 26'.
  • Said unit 2" also includes a second microcontroller 21 ' connected to said second detection means 24' and adapted to transmit, via a second low voltage cable 14, a signal to said first microcontroller 21 upon detection of an instantaneous actual phase shift value BE between said first and said second signals 41 ', 42' related to the windings AV1', AV2' of said second motor 26' essentially zero.
  • the first detection means 24 detect a phase shift which is substantially zero; consequently, said first microcontroller 21 , via said first cable 13, deactivates the relays R1 ', R2' of said second control group 23', thus interrupting the power supply to said second motor 26'.
  • the second detection means 24' detect a phase shift between the signals 41', 42' windings AV1 ', AV2' of the second motor 26' which is essentially zero.
  • the second microcontroller 21 ' interrupts the power supply to the second motor 26' and, through the second low voltage cable 14, sends a warning signal to said first microcontroller 21 indicating that the second motor 26' is blocked.
  • the first microcontroller 21 is therefore configured to turn off the power supply to said first motor 26 also in response to said warning signal.
  • the unit 2" is able to react faster, in particular in the condition in which said second motor 26' enters the thermal protection mode, thus limiting the increase in torsion to the transmission shaft 11 and therefore avoiding damages to the pergola structure or the components thereof.
  • the first and second motors 26, 26' are different from each other, as the first motor 26 has the limit switch corresponding to the extended condition of the sheet deactivated, while the second motor 26' has both limit switches deactivated. This leads to a complication in terms of warehouse management, also with regard to after-sales spare parts.
  • the limit switch of the first motor 26 corresponding to the retracted condition of the sheet cannot be adjusted in the factory, but must be set on site during the installation procedure.
  • the limit switch programming keys present on the head of the first motor 26 may not be easily reachable or even unattainable, consequently the process of adjusting this limit switch of the first motor 26 generally complicates the programming procedure of the drive and control unit according to the present invention.
  • a pergola structure 100 includes a reference element 50, preferably fixed in correspondence or in proximity of a second edge 10B of said covering element 10 opposite to said first edge 10A, for example mounted on the last stem of the reinforcing stems 9 and covered by the covering element 10 so that it is not visible and at the same time protected from the weather, and a detection member 51 , such as for example a presence or proximity sensor, preferably arranged on said frame 110 and operationally connected to said first microcontroller 21 of said control and drive unit 2, 2', 2", which is advantageously configured to interrupt the power supply of at least said first motor 26 also upon detection of the reference element 50 by the detection member 51 .
  • a detection member 51 such as for example a presence or proximity sensor
  • said detection member 51 is arranged on the frame 1 10 so that the interruption of the power supply of at least said first motor 26 occurs when said covering element 10 reaches the completely retracted position.
  • said reference element 50 comprises a permanent magnet, said detection member 51 being formed by or comprising a magnetic presence or proximity sensor.
  • said detection member 51 can be an optical, capacitive proximity sensor or even a mechanical switch, or of any other type suitable for the purpose, i.e. that of detecting the presence in the immediate vicinity of the reference element 50 .
  • said reference element 50 and said detection member 51 can be reversed, i.e. said reference element 50 can be arranged on the frame 110 and said detection member 51 can be arranged integral with the sheet 10.
  • a drive and control unit 2, 2’, 2” for the motor-driven displacement of a movable covering element 10 of pergola 100 comprises at least a first electric motor 26 which can be power-supplied at the mains voltage and comprising at least one first winding AV1 and a second winding AV2, said first motor 26 being adapted to be operatively associated with said covering element 10 to displace it between a retracted position and an extended and tensioned position, and a microcontroller 21 connected to said first motor 26 to determine the operating modes thereof.
  • Said drive and control unit 2, 2’, 2” further comprises first detection means 24 associated with said first motor 26 and configured to detect, at the start of the first motor 26 determined by an input signal provided to the first microcontroller 21 , a first signal 41 related to the supply current of the first winding AV1 of the first motor 26 and a second signal 42 related to the supply current of the second winding AV2 of the first motor 26, said first microcontroller 21 being adapted to shut off the power supply at least to the first motor 26 upon detecting a phase shift variation AB between said first and said second signals 41 , 42 greater than a reference value X, corresponding to the condition of the sheet being extended and properly tensioned.
  • the first microprocessor 21 indirectly determines the limit switch position corresponding to the condition of the sheet being retracted, due to the activation of the sensor 51 by the reference element 50, and provides to shut off the power supply of at least said first motor 26, or of the motors 26, 26' if more than one motor is present.
  • the limit switch corresponding to the retracted condition of the sheet can be determined by design, defining the position of the reference element 50 and of the sensor 51 .
  • the pergola 100 can be installed in any context, as it is no longer necessary to reach the motor to manually adjust the limit switch.
  • a method for performing the motor-driven displacement of a movable covering element 10 of a pergola structure 100 through a drive and control unit 2 , 2’, 2” comprises at least the following steps: a) power-supplying said first motor 26 as to displace said movable covering element 10 between a retracted position and an extended position according to an input signal, b) detecting - through said first detection means 24 - a first signal 41 related to the supply current of the first winding AV1 of the first motor 26 and a second signal 42 related to the supply current of the second winding AV2 of the first motor 26, c) monitoring the value of the actual phase shift B E between said first and second signal 41 , 42, d) Shutting off the power supply to the first motor 26 upon detecting a phase shift variation AB between said first and said second signal 41 , 42 greater than a reference value X.
  • said first and second signal 41 , 42 may be merged into a combination signal (not shown) to be transmitted to said first microcontroller 21 , said combination signal being configured in such a way that it is still possible to obtain the phase shift between said first and said second signal 41 , 42, for example through an analysis of the shape or its minimum or maximum value, allowing to obtain the stress condition of the first motor 26 instant by instant and therefore determine that the tensioning condition of the sheet 10 has been reached.
  • the drive and control unit 2', 2" is also suitable for interrupting the supply of said first and said second motor 26, 26' upon detection of an instantaneous actual phase shift value B E between said first and said second signal 41 , 42 of said first motor 26 or between said first and said second signal 41 42' of said second motor 26' essentially equal to zero.
  • a drive and control unit allows to move the sheet safely and effectively by using an encoder-less motor, with cost-effectiveness compared to the solutions already available on the market for the motor-driven displacement of pergola sheets which use motors provided with encoders or sensors for detecting the position of the sheet, and further allowing a wider choice in the type of motors having shape, size and electrical characteristics suitable to displace pergola sheets.
  • a drive and control unit according to the present invention is made up of readily available and cost-effective component elements. In addition, it operates with an easy-to- implement method of operation.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Power Engineering (AREA)
  • Architecture (AREA)
  • Civil Engineering (AREA)
  • Structural Engineering (AREA)
  • Operating, Guiding And Securing Of Roll- Type Closing Members (AREA)

Abstract

The present invention relates to a pergola structure (100) comprising a frame (110), flat or inclined, defining a top opening (12), a covering element (10), such as a sheet, adapted to be displaced between a retracted position, wherein it leaves said top opening (12) essentially free, and an extended position, wherein it essentially covers said top opening (12), being superimposed thereto, and a drive and control unit (2, 2', 2'') for the motor-driven displacement of said covering element (10), said unit (2, 2', 2'') comprising at least a first electric motor (26) which can be powered to the mains voltage and comprising at least a first winding (AV1) and a second winding (AV2), said first motor (26) being adapted to be operatively associated with said covering element (10) to displace it between said retracted position and said extended position, and a first microcontroller (21) connected to said first motor (26) to determine the operating modes thereof. Said unit (2, 2', 2'') also comprises first detection means (24) associated with said first motor (26) and configured to detect, at the start of the first motor (26) determined by an input signal provided to said first microcontroller (21), a first signal (41) related to the supply current of the first winding (AV1) of the first motor (26) and a second signal (42) related to the supply current of the second winding (AV2) of the first motor (26), said first microcontroller (21) being adapted to interrupt the power supply to the first motor (26) upon detecting a phase shift variation (ΔB) between said first and said second signals (41, 42) greater than a reference value (X) set so as the interruption of the supply of said first motor (26) is performed when said covering element (10) reaches an extended and tensioned position. The present invention further relates to a method for the motor-driven displacement of a movable covering element (10) of a pergola structure (100) operated through a drive and control unit (2, 2', 2'') for automatically arranging said covering element (10) in an extended and properly tensioned position.

Description

“DRIVE AND CONTROL UNIT FOR THE MOTOR-DRIVEN DISPLACEMENT OF SHEETS FOR PERGOLAS AND RELATIVE OPERATION”
DESCRIPTION
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[001] The present invention relates to a drive and control unit for the motor-driven displacement of sheets for covering pergolas, and relative operation, capable of automatically arranging the sheet of a pergola in the extended position with the correct tensioning, irrespective of the wear condition thereof or of the weather conditions.
[002] The present invention also refers to a drive and control unit able to displace covering sheets of pergolas having significant size through at least a pair of electric motors, determining the operation thereof even if anomalies occur caused by overheating of one of the motors.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[003] The movable outdoor covers, commonly referred to as “pergolas”, provide for a fixed support structure comprising a plurality of pillars supporting a frame which surrounds a top opening and on which a movable covering element, generally formed by a flexible sheet made of waterproof polymeric material, such as for example nylon, possibly supported by a plurality of reinforcement stems, may slide along guides between a retracted position, in which it is folded, and an extended position, in which it covers the top opening.
[004] Should the displacement of the sheet be motor-driven, one or more electric motors power- supplied at the mains voltage drive a transmission shaft - connected to drive belts extending along a pair of parallel crosspieces of the frame - in rotation therefore displacing the sheet to the desired position.
[005] The two end positions of the sheet are generally defined by setting relative limit switch, which block the power-supply to the motors designed to drive the shaft and held mechanically locking the sheet to the frame or to the support structure.
[006] In particular, the limit switch relating to the extended position of the sheet must provide a tensioning condition of the latter capable of providing a good resistance against atmospheric agents, such as wind and rain, further allowing the correct drainage of rainwater without forming hazardous sacs and maintaining an appropriate stability in the event of vibrations caused by strong wind gusts.
[007] However, the exposure of the sheet to atmospheric agents, thermal excursions with ensuing thermal expansion, and to repeated mechanical stresses results in elastic deformations of the sheet, which could result in plastic stressing of the fibres thereof over the years, causing even significant dimensional changes in the same.
[008] As a result, the initially set limit switch of the sheet, and in particular the one relating to the extended position of the sheet, may be no longer suitable to ensure the correct tensioning thereof. [009] With this regard, the Italian patent No. 1340589 discloses a control and drive device for electric motors for displacing the cover sheet of a pergola capable of automatically arranging the sheet in the extended position irrespective of the wear condition of the frame or the weather conditions, wherein an angular speed digital encoding element, such as encoder, is entered into the sheet drive motor and operatively connected to a digital control unit for controlling the powersupply of said motor.
[0010] In particular, the start of the motor is determined by a signal provided by the user and the stop thereof by the detection of angular speeds smaller than a limit value pre-set as a function of the resistant torque related to the tension of the sheet.
[0011] The encoder may be formed by a magnetic disc keyed on the shaft of the motor and provided with two or more magnetic poles and by a Hall effect sensor installed at a distance such to be conditioned by the polarity of the magnet, to detect the alternation between positive poles and negative poles, therefore generating an output signal formed by a square wave. Alternatively, the encoder may be of the optical type.
[0012] The operation of such device is described with reference to figures 2A and 2B. When the sheet is displaced towards the extended position, the motor is power-supplied to drive the shaft in rotation and therefore move the ends of the sheet along the side guides. During this extension step, the motor moves at a constant angular speed and the angular speed digital encoding element therefore transmits to the control unit an intermittent and uniform signal, as shown in Fig. 2A.
[0013] When the sheet is fully extended and starts to tension, the motor is subjected to a progressively increasing resistant torque, and therefore progressively reduces the angular speed thereof. Therefore, the angular speed digital encoding element detects an intermittent signal, in which the high signal levels are separated from low levels having a progressively increasing duration, as shown in Fig. 2B.
[0014] Once the control unit detects that the duration of the separation ranges between the two subsequent high levels becomes greater than a pre-set reference value, the power-supply of the motor is cut off. The parameters are established so that the cut off of the power-supply of the motor occurs when the sheet is tensioned.
[0015] Although such device operates satisfactorily, it requires the use of motors provided with encoders with electronic limit switch which are more expensive than the respective models without them.
[0016] Furthermore, some types of motors available on the market which have shape, size and electrical characteristics adapted to displace sheets of pergolas cannot be used as they are without integrated encoder. Such motors would need structural changes to allow the coupling with an encoder which cannot be implemented any more for reasons linked to safety and required certificates.
[0017] Document US6215265 discloses a method and a unit for controlling the automatic stopping of electric motors that drive mobile elements, such as in particular roller shutters, rolling gates, jalousies, awnings or movie screens, which can be moved between a retracted position and an extended position with a predetermined path, in order to prevent these mobile elements from being damaged in the event of jamming due to obstacles while it is rolled up or down or when the mobile element reaches the end positions.
[0018] Said drive and control unit is adapted to continuously detect the torque of the electric motor so that the latter can be deactivated either when a predefined torque is exceeded or when a predefined change in torque is exceeded, wherein the motor torque is determined evaluating the phase shift between the two motor windings.
[0019] The purpose of a control unit of the type described above is to be able to recognize as soon as possible a potentially dangerous event for the mobile element, so as to be able to prevent or limit the damage; consequently, such unit is generally configured so that even a small value of phase shift detected, for example of 5 - 10%, leads to the electric motor being turned off.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0020] The main task of the subject matter of the present invention is to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art, by providing a drive and control unit for the motor-driven displacement of cover sheets for pergolas capable of automatically arranging the sheet of a pergola at least in the extended position with the correct tensioning, irrespective of the wear condition thereof and the weather conditions, and by using an encoder-less motor.
[0021] A further object of the present invention is to provide a drive and control unit that is safe to use and effective in operation.
[0022] A further object of the present invention is to obtain a drive and control unit formed by component elements that are simple, readily available, cost-effective and adapted to be easily installed on a pergola.
[0023] A further purpose of the present invention is to provide a drive and control unit that allows the movement of pergola sheet of a significant size, for which there is the need to coordinate the operation of at least one pair of electric motors.
[0024] Another object of the present invention is to provide a drive and control unit that is able to quickly detect anomalies in the operation of one of the motors of said at least one pair of motors of the pergola and prevent that anomalies could compromise or damage the pergola structure and/or its components.
[0025] These and other tasks, objects and advantages outlined above which will be more apparent in the description below, are reached by a pergola structure comprising a drive and control unit for the motor-driven displacement of sheets as defined in claim 1 and an operation method according to claim 17.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0026] Advantages and advantageous characteristics of a pergola structure provided with a drive and control unit for the motor-driven displacement of sheets according to the present invention will be better illustrated in the description of a particular, but not exclusive embodiments, shown by way of non-limiting example in the attached drawings, wherein:
- figure 1 shows, in perspective view, a pergola structure on which there is mounted a control and drive unit of a cover sheet according to the present invention;
- figures 2A and 2B show the patterns of the signals transmitted by an encoder connected to the motor in a device of the prior art, respectively in a condition in which the sheet proceeds stably at a cruising speed and in a condition in which the sheet has reached the tensioning position;
- figures 3A and 3B schematically show the drive and control unit for the motor-driven displacement of sheets for pergolas according to the present invention, respectively incorporating a motor without mechanical limit switch or a motor provided with mechanical limit switch;
- figure 4A schematically shows the theoretical pattern of the signals relating to the windings of a motor, with a setting phase shift value Bo;
- figures 4B and 4C schematically show the actual patterns of the signals relating to the windings of the motor detected by a drive and control unit according to the present invention respectively in a condition in which the sheet proceeds stably at a cruising speed and in a condition in which the sheet has reached an end position, in the absence of mechanical limit switches;
- figure 5 schematically shows a first variant embodiment of a drive and control unit according to the present invention comprising a pair of electric motors;
- figure 6 schematically shows a second variant embodiment of a drive and control unit according to the present invention comprising a pair of electric motors; and
- figure 7 shows a pergola structure according to the present invention, comprising an outer reference element and a detecting member positioned to determine the limit switch of the motor in the condition of the sheet being completely retracted.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
[0027] With reference to the figures mentioned above, in particular to figure 1 , there is shown pergola structure 100 according to the present invention, provided with a movable covering element 10 and a drive and control unit associated thereto, indicated with reference numeral 2.
[0028] A pergola structure 100, which may be close to a wall of a building or independent, preferably comprises a plurality of pillars (not shown) which support a frame 110, flat or inclined, which acts as a frame for a top opening 12 and on which said covering element 10, generally formed by a flexible sheet made of polymeric material such as nylon possibly supported by a plurality of suitably distributed reinforcement stems 9, is applied with the possibility of being displaced between a retracted, or opening, position in which it is folded against a crosspiece of said frame 10 therefore leaving the top opening 12 of the structure 100 essentially free, and an extended, or closure, position in which it essentially covers the top opening 12 of the structure 100, being superimposed thereto.
[0029] Said sheet 10 is dragged through suitable transmission members 8, such as a pair of belts, extending in parallel side guides 7 provided for on said frame and connected to a driving shaft 11 , to which the cover sheet 10 is constrained by means of a first edge 10A.
[0030] As schematically shown in figures 3A and 3B, said drive and control unit 2 comprises at least a first electric motor 26 which can be power-supplied at the mains voltage, comprising at least one first winding AV1 and a second winding AV2, and operatively associated with said shaft 11 to impart the rotation thereof in the two directions, therefore allowing to displace the sheet 10 between the two operative positions.
[0031] Said first electric motor 26 is preferably of the hollow-shaft type, so that it can be arranged coaxial to the shaft 11 , or of another type (for example a tubular motor) so that it can be arranged externally to the shaft 1 1 and connected thereto using belts or gears.
[0032] Possibly, said first electric motor 26 may be provided with conventional and known mechanical end-strokes. Advantageously, said electric motor 26 is not provided with optical or magnetic means, such as encoders, for detecting the angular speed or electronic limit switch.
[0033] Said unit 2 further comprises first command and control means 21 , such as a first microcontroller operatively connected to said first motor 26 to determine the operating modes thereof.
[0034] Preferably, said first microcontroller 21 is connected to the fist motor 26 through a first control group 23 comprising a pair of relays R1 , R2, each adapted to allow/cut off the power supply to a respective winding AV1 , AV2 of the first motor 26.
[0035] The windings of the motor AV1 , AV2 are selectively power-supplied as a function of the rotation direction intended to be imparted to the shaft 11 , and therefore to the direction for displacing of the sheet between the retracted position and the extended position, as indicated by the arrow F of figure 1 .
[0036] The first motor 26 can be turned on by means of an input signal provided to the first microcontroller 21 through a control interface 22, also advantageously incorporated in the drive and control unit 2, adapted to communicate with the first microcontroller 21 and receive signals, data and/or instructions through the most widespread and common communication channels or methods, such as for example, radio frequencies, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth or with a wired physical control device, such as a button. The input signals to determine the displacement of the sheet 10 from the retracted position to the extended position and vice versa may be provided by a user or possibly also by a weather sensor or the like.
[0037] Advantageously, said drive and control unit 2 further comprises a power supply unit 20 configured to receive the electric power supply from the external, for example through a carriercurrent cable connected to an external power source (not shown), preferably formed by a power supply mains, and transform the input mains voltage into a voltage adapted to power-supply said first microcontroller 21 , to which it is advantageously connected. [0038] Alternatively, the power supply unit 20 may receive the electric power supply from one or more batteries which can be advantageously recharged with one or more external photovoltaic panels possibly mounted on the pergola 100.
[0039] According to an advantageous characteristic of the present invention, said, drive and control unit 2 further comprises first detection means 24 associated with said first motor 26, preferably made from a circuit capable of detecting continuously or in series successive time instants since the starting of the first motor 26, a first signal 41 related to the current which passes through the first winding AV1 of the first motor 26 and a second signal 42 related to the current which passes through the second winding AV2 of the first motor 26, and transmit them to the first microcontroller 21.
[0040] According to the present invention, the unit 2 bases its operation on the fact that, under normal operating conditions, that is when the sheet is running with a cruising speed, the signals relating to the windings of the motor have similar but offset patterns of a setting phase shift value Bo dependent on the construction characteristics of the motor, as shown in Figure 4A.
[0041] Variations (in absolute value) of this phase shift between the two signals of the motor windings are caused by an increase in the torque delivered by the motor and therefore positively correlated with the achievement of a sheet end position.
[0042] Should the first motor 26 not be provided with mechanical switch limit (figure 3A), or should they be deactivated, considering an initial condition in which the cover 10 is in a retracted position, that is folded in proximity of the shaft 11 , and should there arise the need to displace the sheet 10 to the extended position, the operation of the unit 2 according to the present invention is described below with reference to figures 4B and 4C.
[0043] Initially, the first microcontroller 21 of the unit 2 receives an input signal from the control interface 22, which can be received in various ways, for example through a physical or digital actuation button, via radio, or even through a signal coming from a weather sensor.
[0044] At this point, the first microcontroller 21 sends a command to the first control group 23 which closes one of the two relays R1 , R2 to power one of the two windings AV1 , AV2 of the first motor 26 to determine the rotational drive of the shaft 11 in the desired direction, that is such to allow the sheet 10 to move towards the extended position.
[0045] When the shaft 11 starts to rotate, the detection means 24 start to detect, continuously or at successive intervals, a first signal 41 and a second signal 42 obtained from the current which passes through the first and second winding AV1 , AV2 of the motor 26 respectively, transferring such information to the first microcontroller 21 which determines the actual phase shift value BE between these two signals 41 , 42 at that moment.
[0046] As shown in figure 4B, under operating conditions, the actual phase shift value BE between the two signals 41 , 42 has a value substantially equal to or close to the setting phase shift value Bo of the motor; as long as the variation AB between the actual phase shift value BE detected by said first detection means 24 and the setting phase shift value Bo does not exceed a limit value X, the first microcontroller 21 determines that the shaft 11 is rotating at a cruising speed, without being subjected to any particular stresses, and as a result, it continues to power the first motor 26 in order to continue the operation for displacing the sheet in the desired direction.
[0047] When the sheet 10 reaches the extended position and starts to tension, the shaft 1 1 is progressively braked in its rotation by the reverse force exerted by the sheet. In this tensioning step, the detection means 24 detect that the actual phase shift value BE between the first and second signal 41 , 42, differs progressively from the setting phase shift value Bo, and the phase shift variation AB depends on the instantaneous stress of the first motor 26.
[0048] As shown in Figure 4C, when the first microcontroller 21 verifies that the phase shift variation AB (in absolute value) detected by the first detection means 24 between said signals 41 , 42 exceeds a reference value X, it means that the sheet 10 has reached the extended position and is sufficiently stretched/tensioned; as a result, it cuts the power supply to the first motor 26, opening the corresponding relay pair R1 , R2 of the first control group 23, thereby keeping the sheet 10 in the extended and correctly tensioned position.
[0049] In other words: if
AB = \BE - BO | < X, where AB is the phase shift variation, BE is the instantaneous actual phase shift value between the detected signals 41 , 42 relating to the two motor windings, Bo is the setting phase shift value of the signals relating to the two motor windings, and X is a reference value (or limit value), then the sheet 10 is running with a cruising speed and therefore the first microcontroller 21 keeps the motor 26 powered; if instead
AB = \BE — BO \ > X then the sheet 10 has reached an end position and therefore the first microcontroller 21 turn off the power supply to the motor 26.
[0050] The reference value X (or limit value) is advantageously pre-established and set so that the power cut to the first motor 26 occurs when the sheet is properly tensioned.
[0051] Preferably, to allow optimal tensioning of the sheet in the extended position, the reference value X is at least of 30%.
[0052] Possibly, said reference value X may be changed following installation, by operating on said first microcontroller 21 for example through a dedicated button or using a remote control, in order to better adapt to the conditions of the sheet.
[0053] Clearly, if there is an obstacle along the path of the sheet 10, both during the extension phase and in the retraction phase, the unit 2 interrupts the power supply to the first motor 26 with the same criterion, i.e. upon detection of a variation of phase shift greater than the reference value X.
[0054] Advantageously, for safety reasons, said first microcontroller 21 is also configured to interrupt the power supply at least of said first motor 26 also upon detection of an instantaneous actual phase shift value BE between said first and said second signal 41 , 42 which is essentially zero.
[0055] This condition, in fact, can be caused for example by an overload which causes the motor windings to overheat, and therefore the interruption of the electrical supply allows to avoid damage to the motor itself.
[0056] Should the motor 26 be provided with mechanical switch limit (figure 3B), a pair of microswitches 11 , 12 associated with the motor shall cut off the power supply to the corresponding winding AV1 , AV2 upon reaching the end positions of the sheet 10.
[0057] However, if the mechanical switch limit relating to the retracted condition of the sheet 10 can be advantageously used/exploited, the switch limit relating to the extended condition of the sheet may not be suitable to ensure the proper tension of the sheet. As a result, the mechanical switch limit relating to the extended condition of the sheet can be advantageously deactivated, so that the movement of the sheet from the retracted position to the extended position can be advantageously managed and controlled through a drive and control unit 2 as described above.
[0058] Possibly, if the sheet 10 to be displaced has significant size, it is possible to envisage the use of a drive and control unit 2, 2" comprising a plurality of electric motors, operationally connected via specific interfaces that allow coordinated operation.
[0059] With reference to figure 5, a drive and control unit 2' according to a first variant embodiment of the present invention is schematically illustrated, said unit 2’ comprising a first electric motor 26, a first microcontroller 21 , first detection means 24 and preferably also a first control group 23, a command interface 22 and a power supply unit 20.
[0060] Said drive and control unit 2' also comprises at least a second electric motor 26' adapted to displace said mobile covering element 10 together with said first electric motor 26 between said retracted position and said extended position, said second motor 26’ being powered by the mains voltage via a carrier line N and comprising a first winding AV1' and a second winding AV2'.
[0061] Preferably, said second motor 26' is of the through-shaft type, preferably with the limit switches corresponding to both the end positions of the sheet deactivated, and is configured to be arranged coaxial to said drive shaft 11 .
[0062] Conveniently, said unit 2' further comprises a second control unit 23' comprising a pair of relays R1 ', R2', each suitable for allowing/interrupting the power supply to a respective winding AV1 ', AV2' of said second motor 26'.
[0063] According to said first variant embodiment, the first microcontroller 21 is connected to said second control unit 23' via a first low voltage cable 13.
[0064] Advantageously, said unit 2' is able to interrupt the power supply of both motors 26, 26' upon reaching the extended and tensioned condition of the sheet, i.e. by monitoring the phase shift variation AB of the windings AV1 , AV2 of the first motor 26 until the reference value X is exceeded. [0065] Furthermore, advantageously, said unit 2' is able to interrupt the power supply of both motors 26, 26' even when one of the two motors enters the thermal protection mode due to overheating or anomalies of operation.
[0066] In fact, in the event that the first motor 26 enters thermal protection mode, said first detection means 24 detect an instantaneous actual phase shift value BE between said first and said second signals 41 , 42, which are related to said first and said second windings AV1 , AV2, essentially equal to zero, said first microcontroller 21 interrupts the power supply both to said first motor 26 and also to said second motor 26', deactivating the relays R1 ', R2' of said second control group 23' through said first cable 13.
[0067] If, however, it is the second motor 26' that enters thermal protection mode due to overheating, the transmission shaft 11 is subjected to an additional torsion due to the fact that the blocked second motor 26' prevents the rotation to the shaft 11 , while the first motor 26 continues to move the shaft 11. In this condition, the first detection means 24 detect an increase in the phase shift variation AB between the signals 41 , 42 of the windings AV1 , AV2 of the first motor 26 and, upon exceeding the reference value X, the first microcontroller 21 also interrupts the power supply to the first motor 26, thus avoiding damage to the motors 26, 26' or to components of the pergola structure 100.
[0068] In both cases, the unit 2’ is able to cut off the power supply if one of the motors is in thermal protection mode. However, if only the second motor 26' enters thermal protection mode, the unit 2' will intervene with a slight delay as the phase shift variation is not directly detected on this second motor 26', but rather on the first motor 26 as a result of the blocking of the second motor 26'.
[0069] With reference to FIG. 6, a drive and control unit 2" according to a second variant embodiment of the present invention is schematically illustrated, said unit 2” comprising the component elements of the unit 2' according to the first variant embodiment.
[0070] Advantageously, said unit 2" also includes second detection means 24' associated with said second motor 26' and configured to detect a first signal 41 ' related to the supply current of the first winding AV1 ' of said second motor 26' and a second signal 42' related to the supply current of the second winding AV2' of said second motor 26'.
[0071] Said unit 2" also includes a second microcontroller 21 ' connected to said second detection means 24' and adapted to transmit, via a second low voltage cable 14, a signal to said first microcontroller 21 upon detection of an instantaneous actual phase shift value BE between said first and said second signals 41 ', 42' related to the windings AV1', AV2' of said second motor 26' essentially zero.
[0072] In this embodiment, if the first motor 26 enters thermal protection mode, the first detection means 24 detect a phase shift which is substantially zero; consequently, said first microcontroller 21 , via said first cable 13, deactivates the relays R1 ', R2' of said second control group 23', thus interrupting the power supply to said second motor 26'. [0073] If instead it is the second motor 26' that enters thermal protection mode, the second detection means 24' detect a phase shift between the signals 41', 42' windings AV1 ', AV2' of the second motor 26' which is essentially zero. The second microcontroller 21 ' interrupts the power supply to the second motor 26' and, through the second low voltage cable 14, sends a warning signal to said first microcontroller 21 indicating that the second motor 26' is blocked. The first microcontroller 21 is therefore configured to turn off the power supply to said first motor 26 also in response to said warning signal.
[0074] Compared to the unit 2' according to the first variant embodiment of the present invention, the unit 2" is able to react faster, in particular in the condition in which said second motor 26' enters the thermal protection mode, thus limiting the increase in torsion to the transmission shaft 11 and therefore avoiding damages to the pergola structure or the components thereof.
[0075] In the first and second variant embodiment of the present invention, the first and second motors 26, 26' are different from each other, as the first motor 26 has the limit switch corresponding to the extended condition of the sheet deactivated, while the second motor 26' has both limit switches deactivated. This leads to a complication in terms of warehouse management, also with regard to after-sales spare parts.
[0076] Furthermore, the limit switch of the first motor 26 corresponding to the retracted condition of the sheet cannot be adjusted in the factory, but must be set on site during the installation procedure. However, sometimes the limit switch programming keys present on the head of the first motor 26 may not be easily reachable or even unattainable, consequently the process of adjusting this limit switch of the first motor 26 generally complicates the programming procedure of the drive and control unit according to the present invention.
[0077] To overcome this problem, as shown in FIG. 7, advantageously a pergola structure 100 according to the present invention includes a reference element 50, preferably fixed in correspondence or in proximity of a second edge 10B of said covering element 10 opposite to said first edge 10A, for example mounted on the last stem of the reinforcing stems 9 and covered by the covering element 10 so that it is not visible and at the same time protected from the weather, and a detection member 51 , such as for example a presence or proximity sensor, preferably arranged on said frame 110 and operationally connected to said first microcontroller 21 of said control and drive unit 2, 2', 2", which is advantageously configured to interrupt the power supply of at least said first motor 26 also upon detection of the reference element 50 by the detection member 51 .
[0078] Conveniently, said detection member 51 is arranged on the frame 1 10 so that the interruption of the power supply of at least said first motor 26 occurs when said covering element 10 reaches the completely retracted position.
[0079] Preferably, said reference element 50 comprises a permanent magnet, said detection member 51 being formed by or comprising a magnetic presence or proximity sensor.
[0080] Alternatively, said detection member 51 can be an optical, capacitive proximity sensor or even a mechanical switch, or of any other type suitable for the purpose, i.e. that of detecting the presence in the immediate vicinity of the reference element 50 .
[0081] Optionally, the position of said reference element 50 and said detection member 51 can be reversed, i.e. said reference element 50 can be arranged on the frame 110 and said detection member 51 can be arranged integral with the sheet 10.
[0082] In summary, a drive and control unit 2, 2’, 2” for the motor-driven displacement of a movable covering element 10 of pergola 100 according to the present invention comprises at least a first electric motor 26 which can be power-supplied at the mains voltage and comprising at least one first winding AV1 and a second winding AV2, said first motor 26 being adapted to be operatively associated with said covering element 10 to displace it between a retracted position and an extended and tensioned position, and a microcontroller 21 connected to said first motor 26 to determine the operating modes thereof.
[0083] Said drive and control unit 2, 2’, 2” further comprises first detection means 24 associated with said first motor 26 and configured to detect, at the start of the first motor 26 determined by an input signal provided to the first microcontroller 21 , a first signal 41 related to the supply current of the first winding AV1 of the first motor 26 and a second signal 42 related to the supply current of the second winding AV2 of the first motor 26, said first microcontroller 21 being adapted to shut off the power supply at least to the first motor 26 upon detecting a phase shift variation AB between said first and said second signals 41 , 42 greater than a reference value X, corresponding to the condition of the sheet being extended and properly tensioned.
[0084] During the retracting phase of the sheet 10, the first microprocessor 21 indirectly determines the limit switch position corresponding to the condition of the sheet being retracted, due to the activation of the sensor 51 by the reference element 50, and provides to shut off the power supply of at least said first motor 26, or of the motors 26, 26' if more than one motor is present.
[0085] Consequently, the limit switch corresponding to the retracted condition of the sheet can be determined by design, defining the position of the reference element 50 and of the sensor 51 . In this way, the pergola 100 can be installed in any context, as it is no longer necessary to reach the motor to manually adjust the limit switch.
[0086] A method for performing the motor-driven displacement of a movable covering element 10 of a pergola structure 100 through a drive and control unit 2 , 2’, 2” according to the present invention comprises at least the following steps: a) power-supplying said first motor 26 as to displace said movable covering element 10 between a retracted position and an extended position according to an input signal, b) detecting - through said first detection means 24 - a first signal 41 related to the supply current of the first winding AV1 of the first motor 26 and a second signal 42 related to the supply current of the second winding AV2 of the first motor 26, c) monitoring the value of the actual phase shift BE between said first and second signal 41 , 42, d) Shutting off the power supply to the first motor 26 upon detecting a phase shift variation AB between said first and said second signal 41 , 42 greater than a reference value X. [0087] Possibly, said first and second signal 41 , 42 may be merged into a combination signal (not shown) to be transmitted to said first microcontroller 21 , said combination signal being configured in such a way that it is still possible to obtain the phase shift between said first and said second signal 41 , 42, for example through an analysis of the shape or its minimum or maximum value, allowing to obtain the stress condition of the first motor 26 instant by instant and therefore determine that the tensioning condition of the sheet 10 has been reached.
[0088] If the pergola 100 includes a sheet 10 of significant dimensions and at least a pair of motors 26, 26' is necessary for the movement thereof, the drive and control unit 2', 2" is also suitable for interrupting the supply of said first and said second motor 26, 26' upon detection of an instantaneous actual phase shift value BE between said first and said second signal 41 , 42 of said first motor 26 or between said first and said second signal 41 42' of said second motor 26' essentially equal to zero.
[0089] In conclusion, in the light of the above it is clear that the present invention allows to attain the initially envisaged objects and advantages. As a matter of fact, there has been designed a drive and control unit for the motor-driven displacement of a cover sheet for a pergola, and relative operation method, capable of automatically arranging the sheet in the retracted position and the extended position with the correct tensioning irrespective of the wear condition thereof or of the weather conditions.
[0090] Advantageously, a drive and control unit according to the present invention allows to move the sheet safely and effectively by using an encoder-less motor, with cost-effectiveness compared to the solutions already available on the market for the motor-driven displacement of pergola sheets which use motors provided with encoders or sensors for detecting the position of the sheet, and further allowing a wider choice in the type of motors having shape, size and electrical characteristics suitable to displace pergola sheets.
[0091] It is clear that a drive and control unit according to the present invention is made up of readily available and cost-effective component elements. In addition, it operates with an easy-to- implement method of operation.
[0092] Obviously, the invention is susceptible of numerous modifications or variants without departing from the scope of protection of the present invention, as defined by any one of the attached claims.
[0093] Furthermore, the materials used to implement the present invention, as well as the shapes and dimensions of the individual components, may be the most appropriate depending on the specific requirements.

Claims

CLAIMS Pergola structure (100) comprising at least:
- a support frame (110), flat or inclined, defining a top opening (12),
- a covering element (10), adapted to be displaced between a retracted position, wherein it leaves said top opening (12) essentially free, and an extended position, wherein it essentially covers said top opening (12), being superimposed thereto,
- a drive and control unit (2, 2’, 2”) for the motor-driven displacement of said covering element (10), said unit (2, 2’, 2”) comprising at least a first electric motor (26) which can be powered to the mains voltage and comprising at least a first winding (AV1) and a second winding (AV2), said first motor (26) being adapted to be operatively associated with said covering element (10) to displace it between said retracted position and said extended position, and a first microcontroller (21 ) connected to said first motor (26) to determine the operating modes thereof, characterized in that it also comprises first detection means (24) associated with said first motor (26) and configured to detect, at the start of the first motor (26) determined by an input signal provided to said first microcontroller (21 ), a first signal (41 ) related to the supply current of the first winding (AV1 ) of the first motor (26) and a second signal (42) related to the supply current of the second winding (AV2) of the first motor (26), said first microcontroller (21 ) being adapted to interrupt the power supply to the first motor (26) upon detecting a phase shift variation (AB) between said first and said second signals (41 , 42) greater than a reference value (X) set so that the interruption of the supply of said first motor (26) occurs when said covering element (10) reaches an extended and tensioned position. Pergola structure (100) according to claim 1 , wherein said reference value (X) is at least of 30%. Pergola structure (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said reference value (X) can be modified by operating on said first microcontroller (21) to adapt to the setting conditions of said covering element (10). Pergola structure (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said first microcontroller (21 ) is configured to interrupt the power supply of at least of said first motor (26) even upon detection of an instantaneous actual phase shift value (BE) between said first and said second signals (41 , 42) essentially equal to zero. Pergola structure (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first and said second signals (41 , 42) are merged into a combination signal to be transmitted to said first microcontroller (21), said combination signal being configured so that the phase shift between said first and said second signal (41 , 42) can be derived therefrom. Pergola structure (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first microcontroller (21 ) is connected to said first motor (26) via a first control device (23) comprising a pair of relays (R1 , R2), each being adapted to allow/interrupt the power supply to a respective winding (AV1 , AV2) of said first motor (26). Pergola structure (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first motor (26) is operatively connectable to a driving shaft (11 ) to which said covering element (10) is attached by means of a first edge (10A), said first motor (26) being of the hollowshaft type, configured to be arranged coaxially with said driving shaft (11). Pergola structure (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a command interface (22) for communicating with said first microcontroller (21) and receiving input signals, data and/or instructions provided by a user or by weather sensors. Pergola structure (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a power supply unit (20) configured to receive the electric power supply and transform the input voltage into a voltage adapted for powering said fists microcontroller (21 ) to which said power supply unit (20) is connected. Pergola structure (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said drive and control unit (2, 2’, 2”) further comprises at least a second electric motor (26') adapted to displace said mobile element (10) together with said first electric motor (26) between said retracted position and said extended position, said second motor (26') being powered to the mains voltage and comprising at least a first winding (AV1 ') and a second winding (AV2'). Pergola structure (100) according to claim 10, wherein said second motor (26') is of the through-shaft type configured to be arranged coaxial to said drive shaft (11 ). Pergola structure (100) according to claim 10 or 11 , wherein said drive and control unit (2', 2") further comprises a second control group (23') comprising a pair of relays (R1 ', R2'), each adapted to allow/interrupt the power supply to a respective winding (AVI ', AV2') of said second motor (26'), said first microcontroller (21 ) being connected to said second control unit (23') through a first low voltage cable (13). Pergola structure (100) according to claim 12, wherein said drive and control unit (2") further comprises second detection means (24') associated with said second motor (26') and configured to detect a first signal (41 ') related to the supply current of the first winding (AVI') of said second motor (26') and a second signal (42') related to the supply current of the second winding (AV2') of said second motor (26'), and a second microcontroller (21') connected to said second detection means (24') and adapted to transmit via a second low voltage cable (14) a signal to said first microcontroller (21 ) upon detection of an instantaneous actual phase shift value (BE) between said first and said second signal (41', 42') of said second motor (26') essentially equal to zero.
14. Pergola structure (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said drive and control unit (2, 2', 2") further comprises a reference element (50) fixed at or in proximity to a second edge (10B) of said covering element (10) opposite to said first edge (10A), and a detection member (51) arranged on said frame (110) and connected to said first microcontroller (21 ), said first microcontroller (21) being configured to interrupt the power supply of at least said first motor (26) upon detection of the reference element (50) by the detection member (51).
15. Pergola structure (100) according to claim 14, wherein said detection member (51 ) is arranged so that the interruption of the power supply to at least said first motor (26) occurs when said covering element (10) reaches the retracted position.
16. Pergola structure (100) according to claim 14 or 15, wherein said reference element (50) comprises a permanent magnet, said detection member (51 ) comprising a magnetic proximity sensor.
17. Method for the motor-driven displacement of a movable covering element (10) of a pergola structure (100) according to claim 1 , comprising the following steps: a) powering at least said first motor (26) so as to displace said movable covering element (10) between a retracted position and an extended position according to an input signal, b) detecting through said first detection means (24) a first signal (41 ) related to the supply current of the first winding (AV1 ) of the motor (26) and a second signal (42) related to the supply current of the second winding (AV2 ) of the first motor (26), c) monitoring the value of the actual phase shift (BE) between said first and second signals (41 , 42), d) interrupting the power supply at least to said first motor (26) upon detecting a phase shift variation (AB) between said first and said second signals (41 , 42) greater than a reference value (X) corresponding to an extended and tensioned condition of the covering element (10).
18. Method according to claim 17, wherein said pergola structure (100) further comprises at least a second motor (26') adapted to displace said mobile element (10) together with said first electric motor (26) between said retracted position and said extended position, said second motor (26') being powered by mains voltage and comprising at least a first winding (AW) and a second winding (AV2'), the interruption of the power supply to the first motor (26) and the second motor (26') occurring also upon detection of an actual phase shift value (BE) between said first and second signals (41 , 42) related to the supply current of the first and second windings (AV1 , AV2) of the first motor (26) or between said first and second signals (41 42') related to the supply current of the first and second windings (AVI ', AV2') of the second motor (26') essentially equal to zero. Method according to claim 17 or 18, wherein said pergola structure (100) further includes a reference element (50) fixed at or in proximity to a second edge (10B) of said covering element (10) opposite to said first edge (10A), and a detection member (51) arranged on said frame (110), the interruption of the power supply of at least said first motor (26) occurring also when said reference element (50) is detected by said detection member (51 ).
EP23832824.9A 2022-12-15 2023-12-12 Drive and control unit for the motor-driven displacement of sheets for pergolas and relative operation Pending EP4635069A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
IT102022000025677A IT202200025677A1 (en) 2022-12-15 2022-12-15 DRIVE AND CONTROL UNIT FOR THE MOTORIZED MOVEMENT OF PERGOLA SHEETS AND RELATED OPERATION
PCT/IB2023/062547 WO2024127247A1 (en) 2022-12-15 2023-12-12 Drive and control unit for the motor-driven displacement of sheets for pergolas and relative operation

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EP4635069A1 true EP4635069A1 (en) 2025-10-22

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IT (1) IT202200025677A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2024127247A1 (en)

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE4440449C2 (en) * 1994-11-14 1997-06-12 Elero Antrieb Sonnenschutz Method and device for controlling the standstill of electric motor-operated shutters or the like
DE20308840U1 (en) * 2003-06-06 2003-08-21 Elero GmbH, 72660 Beuren control device
JP4287312B2 (en) * 2004-03-29 2009-07-01 文化シヤッター株式会社 Switchgear

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