EP4663869A1

EP4663869A1 - Articulation device for an articulated arm for a retractable awning assembly and articulated arm

Info

Publication number: EP4663869A1
Application number: EP25180813.5A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Roberto NARDIN
Original assignee: Tendaco Srl
Current assignee: Tendaco Srl
Priority date: 2024-06-10
Filing date: 2025-06-04
Publication date: 2025-12-17

Abstract

The present invention relates to an improved articulation device (10) for an articulated arm (100) for a retractable awning assembly, comprising a male articulation body (12) and a female articulation body (14) rotatably connected to each other about an articulation axis (R1) by means of respective male articulation part (16) and fork articulation part (20). The fork articulation part (20) comprises a first fork branch (201) and a second fork branch (202), and the male articulation part (16) comprises an articulation engagement element (24) engaging a space between the fork branches (201, 202). Specifically, the female articulation body (14) comprises a first female shell portion (141) and a second female shell portion (142) formed distinct and couplable to each other, wherein the first female shell portion (141) comprises the first fork branch (201) and the second female shell portion (142) comprises the second fork branch (202).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an improvement to an articulation device for an articulated arm for a retractable awning assembly, and an improvement to an articulated arm. In particular, the present invention relates to an articulation device and an articulated arm having an improved construction.

STATE OF THE PRIOR ART

Retractable awning assemblies, comprising one or more articulated arms are known in the state of the art. In particular, a retractable awning assembly provides for at least one retracted or wound position, and at least one extended position. In the retracted or wound position, the tarpaulin of the retractable awning assembly is substantially wound, for example around a roller, so as to provide little or no degree of sunlight shielding. Whereas, in the extended position, the tarpaulin of the retractable awning assembly is substantially extended and preferably suitably tensioned so as to provide a degree of sunlight shielding which is comprised between said minimum degree of shielding and a maximum degree of shielding, depending on the amount of extension or unwinding of the tarpaulin by means of articulated arms and the maximum amount of opening of the latter.
To this end, in order to obtain a movement of the tarpaulin, the retractable awning assembly provides for at least one articulated arm. The articulated arm in turn comprises an arm portion and a forearm portion which are rotatably connected to each other so that they are suitable to be moved between a closing position, obtaining the retracted or wound position, and an opening position, to obtain the extended position.
Said rotatable connection can be obtained by means of an articulation device connecting said arm and forearm portions, and the prior art discloses various types of articulation devices.
For example, patent document EP0636753 discloses a type of articulated arm for a retractable awning assembly, comprising an arm portion and a forearm portion substantially tubular and connected to each other rotatably by connecting to an articulation device. Such articulation device comprises a male articulation body provided with an articulation engagement element and a female articulation body provided with a fork element. Said fork element and articulation engagement element are coupled and rotatably coupled to each other by means of a pin, therefore forming an articulation elbow. Each arm and forearm portion provides for, substantially along its entire length, at least one longitudinal conduit that is open at each end. Said at least one longitudinal conduit is adapted to allow the mounting of tensioning means comprising an elastic element and a flexible traction element connecting the arm portion to the forearm portion.
Patent document EP2607570 discloses a further type of articulated arm comprising an arm portion and a forearm portion rotatably connected to each other by connecting to an articulation device. Such articulation device comprises a male articulation body provided with an articulation engagement element and a female articulation body provided with a fork element rotatably coupled and connected to each other, wherein said fork element comprises an actuation core between its branches. Each arm and forearm portion provides for, substantially along its entire length, a longitudinal conduit that is open at each end. Said longitudinal conduit is adapted to allow the mounting of tensioning means comprising an elastic element and a flexible traction element connecting the arm portion to the actuation core. Furthermore, the fork element comprises two branches which are provided with through-openings adapted to be engaged by retention elements configured to fasten the actuation core to the branches.
Although such prior art articulated arms and the relevant articulation devices function appropriately in most cases, they reveal drawbacks.
As a matter of fact, the construction of the prior art articulation devices, and in particular of the respective fork element and articulation engagement element of the of female and male articulation bodies, is complex to provide. In particular, said fork element and articulation engagement element shall provide for appropriate seats for receiving bearings or bushings to support a mutual rotation, abutment means to limit a maximum angle of mutual rotation, and openings to allow a connection of the components to the flexible traction element.
Typically, the male articulation body and the female articulation body of the prior art articulation devices are formed as a single piece by moulding or die-casting a light metal alloy, such as for example aluminium. In this condition, the shape and/or structure and/or characteristics of the respective engagement element and fork element are limited at the design stage by the component forming technique. For example, there arises the need to design forming moulds, such as forming means, adapted to provide shapes and/or structures without undercuts that would prevent workpieces from being removed from the moulds, therefore limiting the possible shapes and/or structures of the parts at the design stage.
Furthermore, the male articulation body and the female articulation body of the prior art articulation devices, and in particular the respective articulation engagement element and fork element, are complex to assemble given that the formed bodies must be connected to each other and to the flexible traction element.
Typically, such as for example in EP0636753 , prior art articulation devices are assembled by providing for a rotatable fastening step of the male and female articulation bodies by means of the pin, and then a step of inserting the flexible traction element for example in the female articulation body through a respective longitudinal conduit, subsequently a step of anchoring the flexible traction element to the male articulation body.
However, these assembly steps are difficult, increasing as a result the construction costs of the articulated arm.
Alternatively, to simplify assembly, in further articulation devices, such as for example EP2607570 , it is possible to provide for a step of inserting the flexible traction element into the male articulation body through a respective longitudinal conduit, subsequently a step of anchoring the flexible traction element to the actuation core, then a step of coupling the female articulation body to the male articulation body, and then a step of fastening the actuation core to the female articulation body using the retention elements.
However, there arises the need to further simplify the assembly step. Furthermore, such construction limits at the design stage a choice of shape and/or structure and/or characteristics of the components. Lastly, the construction of the articulation device of EP2607570 provides for, on the two branches of the fork element, through openings transversal to the longitudinal extension of the articulation device, which are relatively wide, reducing its strength in an undesired manner.
As a result, there arises the need to provide a solution which overcome at least one of the above-mentioned drawbacks, providing an improvement to an articulation device for an articulated arm for a retractable awning assembly and to an articulated arm.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The task of the present invention is to provide an articulation device and an articulated arm that provide for an improved construction.
In the context of the task outlined above, an object of the present invention relates to an articulation device which provides for a construction adapted to ensure the simplification of the steps for forming its components.
A further object relates to an articulation device which provides for a construction adapted to ensure at the design stage a wide choice of shape and/or structure and/or characteristics of its components.
A further object relates to an articulation device which provides for a construction adapted to ensure the simplification of the steps for assembling its components.
A further object relates to an articulation device which provides for a construction adapted to ensure the simplification of the steps for assembling the articulation device with other elements of the articulated arm.
A further object relates to an articulation device which provides for a construction adapted to ensure strength.
A further object relates to an articulation device which provides for an alternative construction with respect to the prior art ones.
A further object is to provide an articulated arm for a retractable awning assembly which provides for a construction adapted to ensure the simplification of the steps for forming and assembling its components.
The aforementioned task and objects, and others which will be more apparent hereinafter in the description, are achieved through an articulation device and an articulated arm, as defined in the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The further characteristics and advantages of the articulation device for an articulated arm for a retractable awning assembly and the articulated arm, according to the present invention, will become more apparent in the following description relating to an embodiment provided purely by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the figures below, wherein:

Fig. 1 is a lateral view of an articulated arm for a retractable awning assembly, comprising an articulation device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, in an opening position;
Fig. 2 is a first exploded perspective view of the articulated arm of Fig. 1;
Fig. 3 is a second exploded perspective view of some components of the articulated arm and of the articulation device of Figs. 1 and 2;
Fig. 4 is an enlarged view of the articulated arm of Fig. 2 at the articulation device;
Fig. 5 is an enlarged view of some components of the articulation device of Fig. 3;
Fig. 6 is an exploded enlarged view of a first fastening device of the articulated arm of Fig. 2;
Fig. 7 is an exploded enlarged view of a second fastening device of the articulated arm of Fig. 2.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the description below, terms such as "lateral" and the like refer to an articulation device, to an articulated arm for a retractable awning assembly and their components, as shown in the attached figures.
Figs. 1 to 4 show an example of an articulated arm 100 for a retractable awning assembly, in which said articulated arm 100 includes an articulation device 10 according to the present invention.
The articulated arm 100 comprises, as usual, a first arm segment 102, or arm portion 102, and a second arm segment 104, or forearm portion 104, which are rotatably connected to each other by means of said articulation device 10 so that they are adapted to be moved between an opening position (shown in the figures) and a closing position (not shown in the figures). When the articulated arm 100 is in the closing position, the retractable awning assembly is in the retracted or wound position. While, when articulated arm 100 is in the opening position, the retractable awning assembly is in the extended position.
The first arm segment 102 is substantially formed with a tubular profile provided with the respective first end 102a and second end 102b, preferably open. Furthermore, the second arm segment 104 is also substantially formed with a tubular profile provided with the respective first end 104a and second end 104b, preferably also open.
The second end 102b of the first arm segment 102 comprises or is engaged with a first fastening device 106 which, under operative conditions, is typically associated with or rotatably joined to a fixed support (not shown in the figures) provided, for example, at a wall or at a structure on which the retractable awning assembly is mounted.
The second end 104b of the second arm segment 104, distal with respect to the first end 102a of the first arm segment 102, comprises or is engaged with a second fastening device 108 which under operative conditions is typically associated with or rotatably joined to a load bar (not shown in the figures) to which there is fastened an edge of the tarpaulin (not shown in the figures) of the retractable awning assembly.
The first end 102a of the first arm segment 102 and the first end 104a of the second arm segment 104 are rotatably connected to each other through the articulation device 10, better explained below.
Therefore, in the closing position of the articulated arm 100, the tarpaulin is operatively substantially wound, for example around a roller mounted at or near the fixed support to which the first fastening device 106 is coupled. While, in the opening position of the articulated arm 100, the tarpaulin is operatively substantially extended, depending on the degree of opening of the articulated arm, and preferably suitably tensioned.
Within an internal cavity of the first arm segment 102 there is provided for a flexible traction element 110. The flexible traction element 110 is preferably a substantially flat band, strap or belt which is formed with plastic material, fabric or the like, possibly including metal filaments or wires. However, the flexible element 110 may be a preferably metallic cable, possibly with strands, a plurality of cables arranged adjacent to each other or a chain.
The flexible element 110 provides for a first end 110a and an opposite second end 110b which are connected to each other by an intermediate portion 110i. The first end 110a is connected to an elastic element 112 (shown only in Fig. 1), such as for example a traction helical spring or a gas traction spring, which is in turn fastened to a fixed point 102p of the first arm segment 102, such as for example a protrusion or hook extending from the inner walls of the tubular section or from the first fastening device 106. Whereas, the second end 110b is fastened to a part of the articulation device 10, as better explained below, to transmit to the first end 104a of the second arm segment 104 a traction force induced by the deformation of the elastic element 112.
Particularly with reference to Figs. 2 to 5, below is the description of the articulation device 10, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, which is adapted to form a rotatable connection between the first end 102a of the first arm segment 102 and the first end 104a of the second arm segment 104 of the articulated arm 100 of the retractable awning assembly.
The articulation device 10 comprises a male articulation body 12 and a female articulation body 14 which are rotatably connected to each other about an articulation axis R1, which is substantially transversal to the extension direction or longitudinal axis of the articulation bodies. The male 12 and female 14 articulation bodies, are mutually rotatable around the articulation axis R1 between the opening position (shown in the figures) and the closing position (not shown in the figures).
The female articulation body 14 provides for a first end region comprising a fork articulation part 20, and an opposite second end region comprising a first joining part 22. Whereas, the male articulation body 12 provides for a first end region comprising a male articulation part 16, and an opposite second end region comprising a second joining part 18.
Preferably, the second joining part 18 of the male articulation body 12 preferably provides for a shape substantially complementary to the tubular cavity of the first arm segment 102. In particular, the second joining part 18 is configured to be received in said tubular cavity of the first arm segment 102 through the respective first open end 102a. This allows to obtain an engagement by shape-coupling the second joining part 18 with the opening defined at the first end 102a.
Similarly, the first joining part 22 of the female articulation body 14 preferably provides for a shape substantially complementary to the tubular cavity of the second arm segment 104. In particular, the first joining part 22 is configured to be received in said tubular cavity of the second arm segment 104 through the respective first open end 104a. This allows to obtain an engagement by shape-coupling the first joining part 22 with the opening defined at the first end 104a.
The male articulation part 16 and the fork articulation part 20 are rotatably connected to each other around the articulation axis R1, to obtain the mutual rotation of the first arm segment 102 with respect to the second arm segment 104 (that is to obtain the mutual rotation of the male articulation body 12 with respect to the female articulation body 14) between the opening position and the closing position, as mentioned above.
To this end, said fork articulation part 20 comprises a first fork branch 201 and a second fork branch 202 which are arranged in spaced relation along the articulation axis R1, and substantially extending in the direction opposite to the first joining part 22 of the female articulation body 14. Whereas, said male articulation part 16 comprises an articulation engagement element 24 preferably defining an internal cavity. The articulation engagement element 24 engages a space between said first 201 and second 202 fork branches, substantially being arranged between them and connecting them so as to make the male articulation body 12 and the female articulation body 14 mutually rotatable around the articulation axis R1.
Preferably, the fork articulation part 20 is rotatably coupled to the male articulation part 16, and to the articulation engagement element 24 of the latter, by means of bearing means 26, interposed between the articulation parts, and an articulation pin 28 which defines the articulation axis R1 by connecting the articulation parts to each other. The bearing means 26, such as two pairs of bushing elements rotatably inserted into each other (better observable in Fig. 4), are arranged coaxial to articulation axis R1 at open bases of the articulation engagement element 24. Whereas, the articulation pin 28 is substantially defined by a pin-shaped element or by a screw that is adapted to engage the internal cavity of the articulation engagement element 24 and holes, preferably one passing through and the other blind, formed on the two first 201 and second 202 fork branches, of the fork articulation part 20.
In order to limit a maximum angle of mutual rotation between the articulation bodies, such as for example a maximum rotation of 180 degrees, 170 degrees or other desired maximum angle, the male 16 and fork 20 articulation parts may provide for rotation limitation means 30 (better observable in Fig. 5). For example, in the present preferred embodiment, the two, first 201 and second 202, fork branches of the fork articulation part 20 of the female articulation body 14 may comprise respective guide elements 32 defined by arched grooves which are slidably engaged by guide protrusions 34 extending from the articulation engagement element 24 of the male articulation body 12. In particular, in this possible embodiment, the guide elements 32 and the guide protrusions 34 define said rotation limitation means 30, in which the longitudinal extension of the grooves defines a maximum range of rotation by abutting between the guide protrusions 34 and the abutment ends of the grooves of the guide elements 32. However, further embodiments adapted to obtain a limitation of the maximum angle of mutual rotation of the male articulation part 16 with respect to the fork articulation part 20 may be provided for.
Preferably, the articulation device 10 further comprises an actuation core 36 which is connected to the fork articulation part 20, so as to rotate integrally joined with the female articulation body 14 when the latter is moved, or rotated, with respect to the male articulation body 12 between said opening and closing positions.
The actuation core 36 is preferably arranged within the internal cavity of the articulation engagement element 24 of the male articulation part 16 of the male articulation body 12, and it comprises an outer surface which is shaped around the articulation axis R1. The second end 110b of the flexible element 110 is fastened to the actuation core 36 at an anchoring portion 38 (better observable in Figs. 5), in order to transmit to the first end 104a of the second arm segment 104 a traction force induced by the deformation of the elastic element 112 so as to obtain movements between said opening and closing positions of the first 102 and second 104 arm segments.
In particular, the female articulation body 14 comprises a first female shell portion 141 and a second female shell portion 142 which are formed distinct and suitable to be subsequently coupled to each other forming said female articulation body 14. Furthermore, the first female shell portion 141 comprises said first fork branch 201, and the second female shell portion 142 comprises said second fork branch 202. Preferably, said first female shell portion 141 is formed as a single piece, and said second female shell portion 142 is formed as a single piece.
Advantageously, in this condition, the articulation device 10 provides for an improved construction.
In particular, the articulation device 10 provides for a construction adapted to simplify the steps for forming its components. As a matter of fact, given that the first female shell portion 141 and the second female shell portion 142 are formed distinct from each other, the design of the forming means, such as forming moulds, adapted to obtain such components can be simplified avoiding undercuts that would prevent their removal from the moulds.
Furthermore, the articulation device 10 provides for a construction adapted to ensure at the design stage a wide choice of shape and/or structure and/or characteristics of the components. As a matter of fact, given that the first female shell portion 141 and the second female shell portion 142 are formed distinct from each other, the shape and/or structure and/or characteristics of such components can be widely selected at the design stage, avoiding undercuts that would prevent their removal from moulds. For example, the shape and/or structure and/or characteristics of the rotation limitation means 30 and/or of fastening portions with the actuation core 36 can be widely selected.
Furthermore, the articulation device 10 provides for a construction adapted to ensure the simplification of the steps for assembling its components. As a matter of fact, given that the first female shell portion 141 and the second female shell portion 142 of female articulation body 14 are formed distinct from each other, they can be easily coupled and secured to the male articulation part 16 of male articulation body 12.
Furthermore, the articulation device 10 provides for a construction adapted to ensure the simplification the steps for assembling the articulated arm 100. As a matter of fact, given that the first female shell portion 141 and the second female shell portion 142 are formed distinct from each other, they can be easily coupled and secured to the actuation core 36, which is in turn connected to the flexible element 110.
Furthermore, the articulation device 10 provides for a construction adapted to ensure strength. As a matter of fact, the shape and/or structure and/or characteristics of the first female shell portion 141 and the second female shell portion 142 may be appropriately selected at the design stage to provide adequate strength to the articulation device 10, for example forming areas of desired thickness, areas comprising rib portions, areas without or comprising reduced through-openings, and the like.
Preferably, as previously mentioned, the first joining part 22 of the female articulation body 14 provides for a shape substantially complementary to the tubular cavity of the second arm segment 104. The first joining part 22 is preferably configured to be received in said tubular cavity of the second arm segment 104 through the respective first open end 104a. This allows to obtain an engagement by shape-coupling the first joining part 22 with the opening defined at the first end 104a.
In particular, the first joining part 22 preferably comprises a first connection portion 221 and a second connection portion 222 which are formed distinct and suitable to be subsequently coupled to each other forming said first joining part 22 of the female articulation body 14. Furthermore, the first female shell portion 141 comprises said first connection portion 221, and the second female shell portion 142 comprises said second connection portion 222.
Advantageously, in this condition, the articulation device 10 provides for a construction adapted to simplify the steps for assembling its components and the articulated arm 100. As a matter of fact, given that the first female shell portion 141 and the second female shell portion 142 are formed distinct from each other, they can be easily coupled and secured to each other and subsequently fasten them to the first end 104a of the second arm segment 104.
Furthermore, the articulation device 10 provides for a construction adapted to ensure strength. As a matter of fact, when inserted into the tubular cavity of the second arm segment 104, the two first 221 and second 222 connection portions are securely fastened to each other and retained by shape-coupling the first joining part 22 with the opening defined at the first end 104a of the second arm segment 104.
Furthermore, the articulation device 10 provides for a construction adapted to ensure at the design stage a wide choice of shape and/or structure and/or characteristics of the components. As a matter of fact, given that the first female shell portion 141 and the second female shell portion 142 are formed distinct from each other, the shape and/or structure and/or characteristics of such components can be widely selected at the design stage, avoiding undercuts that would prevent their removal from moulds. For example, there can be obtained a first joining part 22 with a substantially O-shaped cross-section which ensures high strength of the articulation device 10 and the articulated arm 100.
In the present preferred embodiment, the male articulation body 12 comprises a first male shell portion 121 and a second male shell portion 122 which are formed distinct and suitable to be subsequently coupled to each other forming said male articulation body 12. Furthermore, said articulation engagement element 24 comprises a first engagement portion 241 and a second engagement portion 242, which are also formed distinct and couplable to each other. In particular, the first male shell portion 121 comprises said first engagement portion 241 and the second male shell portion 122 comprises said second engagement portion 242. Preferably, said first male shell portion 121 is formed as a single piece, and said second male shell portion 122 is formed as a single piece.
Advantageously, in this condition, the articulation device 10 provides for a further improved construction.
In particular, the articulation device 10 provides for a construction adapted to simplify the steps for forming its components. As a matter of fact, given that the first male shell portion 121 and the second male shell portion 122 are formed distinct from each other, the design of the forming means, such as forming moulds, adapted to obtain such components can be simplified avoiding undercuts that would prevent their removal from the moulds.
Furthermore, the articulation device 10 provides for a construction adapted to ensure at the design stage a wide choice of shape and/or structure and/or characteristics of the components. As a matter of fact, given that the first male shell portion 121 and the second male shell portion 122 are formed distinct from each other, the shape and/or structure and/or characteristics of such components can be widely selected at the design stage, avoiding undercuts that would prevent their removal from moulds.
Furthermore, the articulation device 10 provides for a construction adapted to ensure the simplification the steps for assembling the articulated arm 100. As a matter of fact, given that the first male shell portion 121 and the second male shell portion 122 are formed distinct from each other, the actuation core 36, which is in turn connected to the flexible element 110, can be easily inserted into the one of the two male shell portions, and then couple the two male shell portions to each other before fastening them to the first 141 and second 142 female shell portions of the male articulation body 14.
Preferably, as previously mentioned, the second joining part 18 of the male articulation body 12 provides for a shape substantially complementary to the tubular cavity of the first arm segment 102. The second joining part 18 is preferably configured to be received in said tubular cavity of the first arm segment 102 through the respective first open end 102a. This allows to obtain an engagement by shape-coupling the second joining part 18 with the opening defined at the first end 102a.
In particular, the second joining part 18 comprises a third connection portion 181 and a fourth connection portion 182 which are formed distinct and suitable to be subsequently coupled to each other forming said second joining part 18 of the male articulation body 12. Furthermore, the first male shell portion 121 comprises said third connection portion 181, and the second male shell portion 122 comprises said fourth connection portion 182.
Advantageously, in this condition, the articulation device 10 provides for a construction adapted to simplify the steps for assembling its components and the articulated arm 100. As a matter of fact, given that the first male shell portion 121 and the second male shell portion 122 are formed distinct from each other, they can be easily coupled and secured to each other and subsequently fasten them to the first end 102a of the first arm segment 102.
Furthermore, the articulation device 10 provides for a construction adapted to ensure strength. As a matter of fact, when inserted into the tubular cavity of the first arm segment 102, the two third 181 and fourth 182 connection portions are securely fastened to each other and retained by shape-coupling the second joining part 18 with the opening defined at the first end 102a of the first arm segment 102.
Furthermore, the articulation device 10 provides for a construction adapted to ensure at the design stage a wide choice of shape and/or structure and/or characteristics of the components. As a matter of fact, given that the first male shell portion 121 and the second male shell portion 122 are formed distinct from each other, the shape and/or structure and/or characteristics of such components can be widely selected at the design stage, avoiding undercuts that would prevent their removal from moulds. For example, there can be obtained a second joining part 18 with a substantially O-shaped cross-section which ensures high strength of the articulation device 10 and the articulated arm 100.
Preferably, as mentioned above, the articulation device 10 comprises the actuation core 36 which is operatively connected to the flexible traction element 110. The actuation core 36 is contained in the internal cavity of articulation engagement element 24 of male actuation body 12. The actuation core 36 may further be arranged between the first 201 and second 202 fork branches and connected to the latter so as to operatively rotate integrally joined with the female articulation body 14 when rotated around the articulation axis R1.
Advantageously, thanks to such construction of the articulation device 10, the flexible traction element 110 is operatively completely concealed and protected within the male actuation body 12.
In the present embodiment, the actuation core 36 preferably comprises a first core portion 361 and a second core portion 362 which are formed distinct and suitable to be subsequently coupled to each other forming said actuation core 36.
In particular, in a particularly preferred embodiment, the first core portion 361 comprises a first part of the anchoring portion 38, and the second core portion 362 comprises a second part of the anchoring portion 38.
Advantageously, this allows to ensure the ease of construction of the articulation device 10 given that the flexible element 110 may be associated with the first core portion 361 and subsequently fastened to the actuation core 36 by coupling the second core portion 362 with the first core portion 361 to each other, for example by fittingly coupling, fastening with screws-bolts or the like.
Preferably, the actuation core 36 comprises two coupling elements 40 (better observable in Figs. 4 and 5) preferably non-circular-shaped (that is not-circle-shaped) such as for example with gear provided with six lobes or teeth. Each of the two coupling elements 40 is adapted to engage by shape-coupling a corresponding coupling seat 42 having a complementary shape (better observable in Figs. 5) of two coupling seats which are shaped on the first 201 and second 202 fork branches of the fork articulation part 20 of the female articulation body 14. Possibly, the two coupling elements 40 may provide for asymmetries or shapes different from each other, so as to ensure a single coupling mode with the two coupling seats 42 in order to obtain a correct orientation of the actuation core 36 with respect to female articulation body 14.
In the present embodiment, the first 141 and second 142 female shell portions, and/or the first 121 and second 122 male shell portions of the articulation device 10 can be coupled to each other by means of mechanical coupling means so as to form the respective female 14 and/or male 12 articulation body.
For example, first 141 and second 142 female shell portions may be coupled by means of first mechanical coupling means 44 comprising grooves and protruding portions complementarily-shaped shape and which can be engaged with each other. Such grooves and protruding portions of the first mechanical coupling means 44 are preferably formed on the coupling edges of the first 141 and second 142 female shell portions, and they are configured to prevent a displacement of the shell portions along a longitudinal direction of the female articulation body 14. Possibly, there may be provided for first fastening means such as screws, rivets, bonding substances or the like, which are adapted to mutually join the first 141 and second 142 female shell portions.
Additionally or alternatively, the first 121 and second 122 male shell portions may be coupled by means of first mechanical coupling means 46 comprising grooves and protruding portions complementarily-shaped with respect to each other. Such grooves and protruding portions of the second mechanical coupling means 46 are preferably formed on the coupling edges of the first 121 and second 122 male shell portions, and they are configured to prevent a mutual displacement of the shell portions along a longitudinal direction of male articulation body 12. Possibly, there may be provided for second fastening means such as screws, rivets, bonding substances or the like, which are adapted to mutually join the first 121 and second 122 male shell portions.
In the present particularly preferred embodiment, particularly with reference to Figs. 1 to 3 and 6, the first fastening device 106 of the articulated arm 100 comprises a fork fastening part 114 which is adapted under operative conditions to be preferably rotatably coupled or joined to a fixed support (not shown in the figures) provided, for example, at a wall or structure on which the retractable awning assembly is mounted. Said fork fastening part 114 comprises a first fastening branch 1141 and a second fastening branch 1142, preferably provided with respective first fastening openings 118 configured to fasten the first fastening device 106 to this fixed support .
In particular, the first fastening device 106 comprises a first fastening shell portion 1061 and a second fastening shell portion 1062 which are formed distinct and suitable to be subsequently coupled to each other, forming said first fastening device 106. Furthermore, the first fastening shell portion 1061 comprises said first fastening branch 1141, and the second fastening shell portion 1062 comprises said second fastening branch 1142. Preferably, said first fastening shell portion 1061 is formed as a single piece, and said second fastening shell portion 1062 is formed as a single piece.
Advantageously, in this condition, the articulated arm 100 provides for a construction adapted to simplify the steps for forming its components. As a matter of fact, given that the first fastening shell portion 1061 and the second fastening shell portion 1062 of the first fastening device 106 are formed distinct from each other, the design of the forming means, such as forming moulds, adapted to obtain such components can be simplified avoiding undercuts that would prevent their removal from the moulds.
Furthermore, the first fastening device 106 provides for a construction adapted to ensure at the design stage a wide choice of shape and/or structure and/or characteristics of the components. As a matter of fact, given that the first fastening shell portion 1061 and the second fastening shell portion 1062 are formed distinct from each other, the shape and/or structure and/or characteristics of such components can be widely selected at the design stage, avoiding undercuts that would prevent their removal from moulds.
Preferably, the first fastening device 106 comprises a third joining part 116 which provides for a shape substantially complementary to the tubular cavity of the first arm segment 102. The third joining part 116 is preferably configured to be received in said tubular cavity of the first arm segment 102 through the respective second open end 102b. This allows to obtain an engagement by shape-coupling third joining part 116 with the opening defined at the second end 102b.
In particular, the third joining part 116 preferably comprises a fifth connection portion 1161 and a sixth connection portion 1162 which are formed distinct and suitable to be subsequently coupled to each other forming said third joining part 116 of the first fastening device 106. Furthermore, the first fastening shell portion 1061 comprises said fifth connection portion 1161, and the second fastening shell portion 1062 comprises said sixth connection portion 1162.
Advantageously, in this condition, the first fastening device 106 provides for a construction adapted to simplify the steps for assembling its components and the articulated arm 100. As a matter of fact, given that the first fastening shell portion 1061 and the second fastening shell portion 1062 are formed distinct from each other, they can be easily coupled and secured to each other and subsequently fasten them to the second end 102b of the first arm segment 102.
Furthermore, the first fastening device 106 provides for a construction adapted to ensure strength. As a matter of fact, when inserted into the tubular cavity of the first arm segment 102, the two fifth 1161 and sixth 1162 connection portions are securely fastened to each other and retained by shape-coupling the third joining part 116 with the opening defined at the second end 102b of the first arm segment 102.
With reference to Figs. 1 to 3 and 7, preferably the second fastening device 108 may provide for shell portions which are formed distinct and suitable to be subsequently coupled to each other, forming said second fastening device 108. In this case, the second fastening device 108 may have a structure substantially similar to the first fastening device 106 by providing for a fork fastening part adapted to be rotatably coupled or joined to a load bar to which there is fastened an edge of the tarpaulin of the retractable awning assembly, or a fastening part having another conformation or structure.
In the present particularly preferred embodiment, said second fastening device 108 of the articulated arm 100 comprises a rotatable fastening part 120 which is adapted, under operative conditions, to be rotatably coupled or joined to a load bar (not shown in the figures) to which there is fastened an edge of the tarpaulin of the retractable awning assembly. Said rotatable fastening part 120 comprises a third fastening branch 1201 and a fastening base 1202, in which said third fastening branch 1201 is provided with a respective second fastening opening 124 configured to rotatably fasten the second fastening device 108 to said load bar.
In particular, the second fastening device 108 comprises a third fastening shell portion 1081 and a fourth fastening shell portion 1082 which are formed distinct and suitable to be subsequently coupled to each other, forming said second fastening device 108. Furthermore, the third fastening shell portion 1081 comprises a third fastening branch 1201, and the fourth fastening shell portion 1082 comprises said fastening base 1202. Preferably, said third fastening shell portion 1081 is formed as a single piece, and said fourth fastening shell portion 1082 is formed as a single piece.
Furthermore, the second fastening device 108 comprises a fourth joining part 122 which provides for a shape substantially complementary to the tubular cavity of the second arm segment 104. The fourth joining part 122 is preferably configured to be received in said tubular cavity of the second arm segment 104 through the respective second open end 104b. This allows to obtain an engagement by shape-coupling the fourth joining part 122 with the opening defined at the second end 104b.
In particular, the fourth joining part 122 preferably comprises a seventh connection portion 1221 and an eighth connection portion 1222 which are formed distinct and suitable to be subsequently coupled to each other forming said fourth joining part 122 of the second fastening device 108. Furthermore, the third fastening shell portion 1081 comprises said seventh connection portion 1221, and the fourth fastening shell portion 1082 comprises said eighth connection portion 1222.
In the same way as described above, the first 1061, second 1062, third 1081 and fourth 1082 fastening shell portions of the first 106 and second 108 fastening devices, can be coupled to each other by means of respective mechanical coupling means and, possibly, fastening means.
In the light of the above, it is clear that significant results have been achieved overcoming the drawbacks of the prior art, allowing an improvement of an articulation device 10 and an articulated arm 100.
In particular, the articulation device 10 and the articulated arm 100 provides for an improved construction.
Furthermore, the articulation device 10 provides for a construction adapted to ensure the simplification of the steps for forming its components.
Furthermore, the articulation device 10 provides for a construction adapted to ensure at the design stage a wide choice of shape and/or structure and/or characteristics of its components.
Furthermore, the articulation device 10 provides for a construction adapted to ensure the simplification of the steps for assembling its components.
Furthermore, the articulation device 10 provides for a construction adapted to ensure the simplification of the steps for assembling the articulation device 10 with other elements of the articulated arm 100.
Furthermore, the articulation device 10 provides for a construction adapted to ensure strength.
Furthermore, the articulation device 10 provides for an alternative construction with respect to the prior art ones.
Lastly, the articulated arm 100 provides for a construction adapted to ensure the simplification of the steps for forming and assembling its components.
Naturally, the materials and equipment used to implement the present invention, as well as the shape and size of the individual components, may be the most appropriate depending on the specific requirements.

Claims

Articulation device (10) for an articulated arm (100) for a retractable awning assembly, said articulation device (10) comprising a male articulation body (12) and a female articulation body (14) rotatably connected to each other about an articulation axis (R1) by means of respective male articulation part (16) and fork articulation part (20) between a closing position and an opening position, wherein said fork articulation part (20) comprises a first fork branch (201) and a second fork branch (202) arranged in spaced relation to each other along said articulation axis (R1), and
said male articulation part (16) comprises an articulation engagement element (24) engaging a space between said fork branches (201, 202) and connected to the latter so as to be mutually rotatable about said articulation axis (R1),

characterised in that

said female articulation body (14) comprises a first female shell portion (141) and a second female shell portion (142) formed distinct and couplable to each other, wherein said first female shell portion (141) comprises said first fork branch (201) and said second female shell portion (142) comprises said second fork branch (202).
The articulation device (10) according to claim 1, wherein said female articulation body (14) provides for respective first end region comprising said female articulation part (20), and opposite second end region comprising a first joining part (22), wherein said first joining part (22) comprises a first connection portion (221) and a second connection portion (222) formed distinct and couplable to each other, said first female shell portion (141) comprising said first connection portion (221) and said second female shell portion (142) comprising said second connection portion (222).
The articulation device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said male articulation body (12) comprises a first male shell portion (121) and a second male shell portion (122) formed distinct and couplable to each other, and said articulation engagement element (24) comprises a first engagement portion (241) and a second engagement portion (242) formed distinct and couplable to each other, wherein
said first male shell portion (121) comprises said first engagement portion (241) and said second male shell portion (122) comprises said second engagement portion (242).
The articulation device (10) according to claim 3, wherein said male articulation body (12) provides for respective first end region comprising said male articulation part (16), and opposite second end region comprising a second joining part (18), wherein said second joining part (18) comprises a third connection portion (181) and a fourth connection portion (182) formed distinct and couplable to each other, said first male shell portion (121) comprising said third connection portion (181) and said second male shell portion (122) comprising said fourth connection portion (182).
The articulation device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, comprising an actuation core (36) operatively connectable to a flexible element (110), said actuation core (36) being contained in an internal cavity of said articulation engagement element (24), and being further arranged between said fork branches (201, 202) and connected to the latter so as to operatively rotate integrally joined with said female articulation body (14) when rotated about said articulation axis (R1).
The articulation device (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein said actuation core (36) comprises a first core portion (361) and a second core portion (362) formed distinct and couplable to each other.
The articulation device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, comprising mechanical coupling means (44, 46) configured to couple to each other said shell portions (141,142; 121,122) so as to form the respective articulation body (12, 14).
The articulation device (10) according to claim 1, comprising fastening means configured to fasten said shell portions (141,142; 121,122) to each other.
Articulated arm (100) for a retractable awning assembly, comprising a first arm segment (102) and a second arm segment (104) connected to each other by means of an articulation device (10) according to any of the preceding claims.
The articulated arm (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein said arm segments (102, 104) comprise a respective first end (102a, 104a) connected to said articulation device (10) and a respective opposite second end (102b, 104b), at least one of said second ends being connected to a fastening device (106), and said fastening device (106) comprising a fork fastening part (114) comprising a first fastening branch (1141) and a second fastening branch (1142), wherein said fastening device (106) comprises a first fastening shell portion (1061) and a second fastening shell portion (1062) formed distinct and couplable to each other, said first fastening shell portion (1061) comprising said first fastening branch (1141) and said second fastening shell portion (1062) comprising said second fastening branch (1142).