WO2016128902A1

WO2016128902A1 - Device for driving a roll-up element and related method for its use

Info

Publication number: WO2016128902A1
Application number: PCT/IB2016/050691
Authority: WO
Inventors: Barbara Bellachioma; Diego CAPPELLETTI
Original assignee: Stafer S.P.A.
Priority date: 2015-02-13
Filing date: 2016-02-10
Publication date: 2016-08-18
Also published as: EP3257141A1

Abstract

A device (1) for driving a roll-up element comprises: a drive shaft (9); a winding roller (4), connected to the drive shaft (9) to rotate as one therewith about a longitudinal axis of rotation (A) and to move the roll-up element (2) in a movement direction, between a rolled-up configuration and an extended configuration; an electric motor (6), having a stator (6a) and a rotor (6b), wherein the rotor (6a) defines a transmission shaft (7) having a first and a second end; a reduction gear unit (8), having an input coupled to the first end of the transmission shaft (7) and an output connected to the drive shaft (9); an electromagnetic brake (10) connected to the second end of the transmission shaft (7) and movable between an active position, where it prevents the transmission shaft (7) from rotating, and a rest position, where it allows the transmission shaft (7) to rotate, wherein the electromagnetic brake (10) is in the rest position when it is electrically powered; a stator electrical circuit (20) of the stator (6a) connected to the electromagnetic brake (10) to be electrically powered in series therewith, by a primary electrical power supply, so that when the stator circuit (20) is powered, the electromagnetic brake (10) is also powered; an auxiliary power supply device (17), connected to the electromagnetic brake (10) at a node that is electrically interposed between the stator circuit (20) and the electromagnetic brake (10), for powering the electromagnetic brake (10) without powering the stator circuit (20).

Description

DESCRIPTION

DEVICE FOR DRIVING A ROLL-UP ELEMENT AND RELATED

METHOD FOR ITS USE

Technical field

This invention relates to a device for driving a roll-up element and to a related method for its use.

The invention addresses the sector of automation systems for room screening devices. More specifically, the invention relates to a device for driving a roll-up element such as, for example, a roll-up curtain, a rolling shutter or similar room screening devices.

Background art

In the prior art, such devices, as described for example in patent document IT0001331794, comprise a hollow cylindrical drum and a supporting plate configured to be fixable to a wall. The hollow cylindrical drum is mounted to be freely rotatable (that is, idle) on the supporting plate to rotate about a longitudinal axis of rotation in such a way as to wind and unwind a roll-up element around its outside surface. These roll-up motors allow the roll-up element to adopt any configuration included between a rolled-up configuration, where the roll-up element is fully wound around the drum, and an extended configuration where the roll-up element forms a substantially flat surface.

These roll-up motors comprise a tubular guard located inside the hollow cylindrical drum. The tubular guard houses an electric gear motor, which is configured to rotationally drive the drum, and a limit stop unit capable of shutting off the power supply to the gear motor in order to stop the drum from rotating when the roll-up element reaches the rolled-up configuration or the extended configuration. The gear motor comprises an output shaft configured to transmit motion to the drum by means of a pulley.

The limit stop unit comprises an electromechanical device configured to shut off the power supply to the gear motor when the roll-up element reaches the rolled-up configuration or the extended configuration. More specifically, the limit stop unit comprises at least one pulley which is movable in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of rotation during rotation of the drum. When the rolled-up or the extended configuration is reached, the movable pulley trips a switch to shut off the power supply to the gear motor.

The drive device comprises an emergency drive adapted to allow rotating the drum in the event of a power failure. More specifically, the drive device comprises an electromagnetic brake configured to lock the motor to the tubular guard and couple the tubular guard to the drum in the event of a power failure. A supporting toothed wheel actuated by a worm screw connected to a crank lever is connected to the tubular guard in order to set it in rotation when the crank lever is turned, thus allowing the roll-up device to be operated manually.

This solution has the disadvantage of being particularly inconvenient. The use of a crank lever to wind and unwind the roll-up element manually may involve a considerable waste of a user's time and energy. This disadvantage can become very serious in emergency situations.

Typically, the manual drive devices (for example, the crank lever) are located indoors and are inaccessible from outside. This makes manual operation impossible from the outside, which is particularly disadvantageous for rooms or buildings which are totally closed off to the outside by roll-up elements which, in their extended configuration and in the absence of electrical power, do not allow access to the inside.

Another example of a device for driving a roll-up element is described in patent document IT0001372666. The device comprises an electromagnetic brake having a first disk connected to a transmission shaft and a second disk connected to a spring. In the absence of power supply, an electromagnet releases the spring which pushes the second disk against the first disk, thereby applying a braking action which prevents movement of a roll-up element by means of the transmission shaft. In the presence of power supply, the first and second disks are not in contact and the transmission shaft is able to move in order to transmit motion to the roll-up element.

This solution has the disadvantage of not allowing the roll-up element to be wound or unwound in the absence of power supply. This is particularly disadvantageous when a sudden power failure causes the roll-up element to stop in a configuration which is intermediate between the rolled-up configuration and the extended configuration.

Another example of a device for driving roll-up elements and comprising an electromagnetic brake is described in patent document US5542460A. In the presence of power supply, the electromagnetic brake allows rotation of a transmission shaft. The roll-up motor comprises elastic elements which are placed in tension during the passage of the roll-up element from the extended configuration to the rolled-up configuration. When the rolled- up configuration is reached, a switch cuts the power supply, thereby applying the brake to stop the transmission shaft.

In the event of a fire, a safety mechanism activated by the melting of a fusible element (that is, a connecting element with a low melting point) allows releasing the brake, while the action of the elastic elements allows the roll-up element to move into the extended configuration. This solution is not particularly reliable since there is the possibility of the fusible element not melting, leaving the brake on. In the solution described in document US5542460A, there is also a manual device used to drive the roll-up element in the absence of power supply. In addition to the above mentioned disadvantages connected with manual devices, this particular manual device is very complex.

Other examples of motors for roll-up elements with electromagnetic brake are described in patent documents DE2658173A1 and US2006/124250A1. Disclosure of the invention

The aim of this invention is to provide a roll-up motor and a related method for its use to overcome the above mentioned disadvantages of the prior art.

More specifically, this invention has for an aim to provide a roll-up motor and a related method for its use which are simple and reliable.

A further aim of this invention is to provide a roll-up motor and a related method for its use which are particularly safe.

These aims are fully achieved by the roll-up motor and the related method for its use according to the invention as characterized in the appended claims.

It should be noted that in the expression "roll-up motor", the term "motor" is used to denote a device which supplies motive power and the term "roll- up" describes an appliance capable of being rolled up and comprising a roll-up element and the related device which supplies motive power to it, that is to say, drives it. For example, the roll-up element may be a rolling shutter for a window, a door or a shop front.

More specifically, the device for driving a roll-up element according to the invention comprises a drive shaft and a winding roller. The winding roller is connected to the drive shaft to rotate as one therewith about a longitudinal axis of rotation and to drive the roll-up element between a rolled-up configuration and an extended configuration. The longitudinal axis of rotation defines a longitudinal direction.

In an example embodiment, the drive device comprises a first and a second side guide configured to guide the roll-up element in a direction of movement defined by the side guides. Preferably, the direction of movement is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

Rotation of the winding roller causes the roll-up element to be wound and unwound around the outside surface of the winding roller itself. More specifically, rotation of the winding roller in an extending direction causes the roll-up element to move in the direction of movement towards the extended configuration of the roll-up element. Rotation of the winding roller in a winding direction causes the roll-up element to move in the direction of movement towards the rolled-up configuration of the roll-up element.

The drive device comprises an electric motor having a stator and a rotor. The drive device also comprises a transmission shaft having a first and a second end. The transmission shaft is rotationally driven by the electric motor.

in an example embodiment, the electric motor is elongate in shape in the longitudinal direction. The rotor, which is also elongate in the longitudinal direction, has a first and a second end facing opposite directions. In that case, the rotor defines the transmission shaft.

The drive device comprises a reduction gear unit by which drive motion is transmitted from the transmission shaft to the drive shaft. More specifically, the reduction gear unit has an input which is coupled to the first end of the transmission shaft and an output which is connected to the drive shaft.

The drive device comprises an electromagnetic brake connected to the second end of the transmission shaft and movable between an active position, where it prevents the transmission shaft from rotating, and a rest position, where it allows the transmission shaft to rotate. Preferably, the electromagnetic brake is in the rest position when it is electrically powered. The drive device comprises a stator electrical circuit of the stator connected to the electromagnetic brake to be electrically powered in series therewith, by a primary electrical power supply. In other words, when the stator circuit is powered by the primary electrical power supply, the electromagnetic brake is also powered to allow rotation of the transmission shaft.

Preferably, the electromagnetic brake comprises a first disk which is movable as a function of the power supply of the electromagnetic brake and is configured to press against a second disk coupled to the second end of the transmission shaft to stop it. The drive device according to the invention comprises an auxiliary power supply device connected to the electromagnetic brake at a node that is electrically interposed between the stator circuit and the electromagnetic brake, for powering the electromagnetic brake without powering the stator circuit.

Preferably, the auxiliary power supply device comprises at least one circuit breaker configured to connect and disconnect the electromagnetic brake to and from an auxiliary power supply. Still more preferably, the auxiliary power supply device comprises an auxiliary power supply (for example a battery).

It should be noted that this technical solution allows the brake to operate in the absence of a primary power supply in a particularly easy and reliable manner. It should be noted that this technical solution allows the brake to operate in the absence of a power supply of the stator circuit.

More specifically, in drive devices where a power supply to the electric motor involves powering the electromagnetic brake and the movement thereof from the active position to the passive position, this technical solution allows releasing the transmission shaft (and hence the drive shaft) in order to drive the roll-up element in the absence of power to the electric motor.

In drive devices where a power supply to the electric motor involves cutting the power supply to the electromagnetic brake and the movement thereof from the active position to the rest position, this technical solution allows locking the transmission shaft (and hence the drive shaft) in order to drive the roll-up element in the absence of power to the electric motor. It should be noted that this technical solution makes the operation of the brake independent of the operation of the electric motor in order to enable or inhibit rotation of the transmission shaft (and hence the drive shaft) independently of the power supply to the electric motor.

In an example embodiment, the auxiliary power supply device comprises a circuit breaker (at least one) to connect the auxiliary power supply to the electromagnetic brake. In an example embodiment, this circuit breaker is configured to break the stator circuit when the electromagnetic brake is connected to the auxiliary power supply.

This increases the safety of the device by preventing hazardous situations such as, for example, when the roll-up element is opened under emergency conditions (precisely by disabling the brake by means of the auxiliary power supply) on account of an interruption of the primary power supply; under these conditions, if the primary power supply returns, someone might re-start the roll-up element before re-enabling the brake, thus creating the risk of an accident.

In an example embodiment, the auxiliary power supply device comprises a signal receiver connected to the circuit breaker for controlling it in response to a control signal received. Preferably, the signal is issued by a manually controlled emitter (for example a remote control). This solution has the advantage of allowing the auxiliary power supply device to be remotely controlled.

Preferably, the electric motor, the reduction gear unit and the electromagnetic brake are aligned along the axis of rotation of the winding roller. Still more preferably, the winding roller is hollow inside and the electric motor, the reduction gear unit and the electromagnetic brake are mounted inside the winding roller. This solution has the advantage of reducing the overall dimensions of the drive device according to the invention.

The drive device comprises a limit device configured to interrupt a power supply to the stator circuit at the rolled-up and extended configurations of the roll-up element.

In an example embodiment, the winding roller has a polygonal cross section. The drive shaft is connected to a drive element shaped to match the winding roller and coupled geometrically to one end of the winding roller.

In an example embodiment, the drive device comprises an elastic element connected to the drive shaft to be placed in tension during movement of the roll-up element from the rolled-up configuration to the extended configuration. The elastic element generates a return force by which the drive shaft is rotated in a winding direction.

Preferably, the elastic element comprises a helical spring coaxial to the drive shaft. In an example embodiment, the helical spring is wound around the supporting shaft. The helical spring comprises a movable end which is configured to be coupled to the winding roller to rotate as one therewith and a fixed end to be placed in tension when the winding roller is rotated in the extending direction.

It should be noted that the elastic element facilitates the passage of the roll-up element from the extended configuration to the rolled-up configuration even in the absence of power supply to the electric motor. More specifically, the elastic element, in combination with the auxiliary drive device (which allows operation of the electromagnetic brake independently of the power supply to the electric motor) allows emergency operation in the absence of power supply to the stator circuit in a particularly easy, reliable and safe manner.

Also defined according to this invention is a method for using a device for driving a roll-up element, wherein the device comprises a drive shaft connected to an electric motor and coupled to a winding roller to move the roll-up element between a rolled-up configuration and an extended configuration, and an electromagnetic brake powered in series with a stator circuit of the electric motor to be set in a rest position where the transmission shaft is free to rotate when it is electrically powered. The method comprises a step of activating an auxiliary power supply device for powering the electromagnetic brake in the absence of power to the stator circuit.

If the auxiliary power supply device comprises a signal emitter and receiver, the step of activating the auxiliary power supply device comprises closing a circuit breaker after a signal is emitted by the emitter and received by the receiver.

If the device comprises an elastic element, which is placed in tension during movement of the roll-up element from the rolled-up configuration to the extended configuration, activating the auxiliary power supply device allows an emergency operation, in the absence of power supply to the stator circuit of the electric motor, for driving the roll-up element towards the rolled-up configuration.

Brief description of the drawings

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

- Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view showing the device of this description, for driving a roll-up element;

- Figure 2 shows a cross section of a detail of the drive device of Figure 1 according to this description;

- Figure 3 shows a cross section of a detail of a constructional part of the drive device of Figure 1 ;

- Figure 4 schematically represents a power supply circuit of a first embodiment of the drive device of this description;

- Figure 5 schematically represents a second embodiment of the circuit of Figure 4;

- Figure 6 schematically represents a third embodiment of the circuit of Figure 4;

- Figure 7 schematically represents a fourth embodiment of the circuit of Figure 4.

Detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention

With reference to the accompanying drawings, the numeral 1 denotes a device for driving a roll-up element 2 according to this description.

It should be noted that the drive device 1 is intended to be applied to a roll- up appliance 100 comprising the roll-up element 2 (for example a rolling shutter for a window, a door or a shop front) and the drive device 1 ; wherein the drive device 1 is connected to the roll-up element 2 in order to drive it.

More specifically, the drive device 1 comprises a drive shaft 9 connected to a winding roller 4 to rotate as one therewith about a longitudinal axis of rotation "A" and to drive the roll-up element 2 between a rolled-up configuration and an extended configuration. The longitudinal axis of rotation "A" defines a longitudinal direction.

The drive device 1 comprises a first side guide 5a and a second side guide 5b configured to guide the roll-up element 2 in a direction of movement. Rotation of the winding roller 4 causes the roll-up element 2 to be wound and unwound around the outside surface of the winding roller 4 itself. More specifically, rotation of the winding roller 4 in an extending direction causes the roll-up element 2 to move in the direction of movement towards an extended configuration of the roll-up element 2. Rotation of the winding roller 4 in a winding direction causes the roll-up element 2 to move in the direction of movement towards a rolled-up configuration of the roll-up element 2.

The drive device 1 comprises an electric motor 6 having a stator 6a and a rotor 6b. The drive device 1 also comprises a transmission shaft 7 having a first and a second end. The transmission shaft 7 is rotationally driven by the electric motor 6. Preferably, the longitudinal axis "A" is substantially coincident with an axis of rotation of the transmission shaft 7.

In an example embodiment, the electric motor 6 is elongate in shape in the longitudinal direction. The rotor 6b, which is also elongate in the longitudinal direction, has a first and a second end facing opposite directions. In that case, the rotor 6b defines the transmission shaft 7.

The drive device comprises a reduction gear unit 8 by which drive motion is transmitted from the transmission shaft 7 to the drive shaft 9. More specifically, the reduction gear unit 8 has an input which is coupled to the first end of the transmission shaft 7 and an output which is connected to the drive shaft 9.

In the particular embodiment illustrated, the first end of the transmission shaft 7 is coupled to a first plurality of planet gears 8a (or input planet gears 8a) of the reduction gear unit 8. The input planet gears 8a are coupled to a first internally toothed crown wheel 8b to form a first epicyclic gear train. At least one hub of the input planet gears 8a is connected to a first toothed wheel 8c to set it in rotation about an axis of rotation substantially coincident with the axis of rotation of the transmission shaft 7. The first toothed wheel 8c comprises a first pinion. The first pinion is coupled to a second plurality of planet gears 8d. Preferably, the second plurality of planet gears 8d is coupled to the crown wheel 8b to form a second epicyclic gear train. It should be noted that the second epicyclic gear train might also be formed by coupling the second plurality of planet gears 8d to a second crown wheel. At least one hub of the second plurality of planet gears 8d is connected to a second toothed wheel 8e to set it in rotation about an axis of rotation substantially coincident with the axis of rotation of the transmission shaft 7. The second toothed wheel 8e comprises a second pinion. The second pinion is coupled to a third plurality of planet gears 8f (or output planet gears 8f). The output planet gears 8f are coupled to a third internally toothed crown wheel 8g to form a third epicyclic gear train. At least one hub of the output planet gears 8f is connected to the drive shaft 9 to set it in rotation.

The drive device 1 comprises an electromagnetic brake 10 connected to the second end of the transmission shaft 7 and movable between an active position, where it prevents the transmission shaft 7 from rotating, and a rest position, where it allows the transmission shaft 7 to rotate.

Preferably, the electromagnetic brake 10 is in the rest position when it is electrically powered.

The drive device 1 comprises a stator electrical circuit 20 of the stator 6a connected to the electromagnetic brake 10 to be electrically powered in series therewith, by a primary electrical power supply, so that when the stator circuit 20 is powered, the electromagnetic brake 10 is also powered. Preferably, the electromagnetic brake 10 comprises a first disk 15 (or brake disk 15) which is movable in the longitudinal direction as a function of the power supply to the electromagnetic brake 10 and is configured to press against a second disk 16 coupled to the second end of the transmission shaft 7 to stop it from rotating.

Preferably, the second end of the transmission shaft 7 is supported by a bearing 14.

In the particular embodiment illustrated, the electromagnetic brake 10 comprises an energizing coil 11 wound around a cylindrical element 12 shaped to house the windings of the energizing coil 11. The shaped cylindrical element 12 has a blind hole 12a in which a spring 13 is housed. The spring 13 is coupled to the brake disk 15 and is configured to move the brake disk 15 in the longitudinal direction between the rest position, where it is clear of the second disk 16, and the active position where it presses the second disk 16 to apply a braking force.

Preferably, the electromagnetic brake 10 is configured to adopt the active configuration in the absence of power supply to the energizing coil 11. Preferably, the energizing coil 11 is connected to the stator circuit 20. That way, when the stator circuit 20 is powered by a primary power supply (for example, a mains power supply), the electromagnetic brake 10 adopts the rest position and the transmission shaft 7 is free to rotate to drive the winding roller 4 and, consequently, to move the roll-up element 2 in the direction of movement.

The device 1 for driving a roll-up element 2 according to the invention comprises an auxiliary power supply device 17 connected to the electromagnetic brake 10 at a node "R" that is electrically interposed between the stator circuit 20 and the electromagnetic brake 10, for powering the electromagnetic brake 10 without powering the stator circuit 20. In other words, the auxiliary power supply device 17 allows moving the brake disk 15 between the active position and the rest position in the absence of power to the stator circuit 20.

Preferably, the auxiliary power supply device 7 comprises at least one circuit breaker 21 configured to connect and disconnect the electromagnetic brake 10 to and from an auxiliary power supply. For example, the circuit breaker 21 includes an auxiliary circuit breaker 21A forming part of the auxiliary power supply device 17 to connect and disconnect the auxiliary power supply to and from the electromagnetic brake 10. Still more preferably, the auxiliary power supply device 17 comprises an auxiliary power supply (for example a battery 18).

The voltage across the terminals of the battery 18 is between 1 and 24 volts. Preferably, the voltage across the terminals of the battery 18 is between 2 and 12 volts. Still more preferably, the voltage across the terminals of the battery 18 is between 4 and 8 volts.

In an example embodiment, the circuit breaker 21 is configured to connect the auxiliary power supply to the electromagnetic brake 10 and, simultaneously, to break the stator circuit 20.

Preferably, the circuit breaker 21 is accessible to a user to make the operation of the electromagnetic brake 10 independent of the operation of the electric motor 6.

In an example embodiment, the circuit breaker 21 might comprise a two- way switch control configured to switch between a first position where it makes the stator circuit 20 and breaks a circuit of the auxiliary power supply device 17 and a second position where it breaks the stator circuit 20 and makes the circuit of the auxiliary power supply device 17.

In an example embodiment, the circuit breaker 21 might comprise an auxiliary circuit breaker (at least one) 21 A forming part of the circuit of the auxiliary power supply device 17 and a safety circuit breaker (at least one) 21 B, forming part of the stator circuit 20. In this case, the device 1 preferably comprises an interlock acting on the safety circuit breaker 21 B and on the auxiliary circuit breaker 21A. The interlock is configured to force the circuit breaker 21 B to open in response to the closing of the auxiliary circuit breaker 21A.

In an example embodiment, the circuit breaker 21 is connected upstream of the electromagnetic brake 10, which means the safety circuit breaker is interposed between the electromagnetic brake 10 and the primary power supply. For example, the safety circuit breaker 21 B is connected in the stator circuit 20 upstream of the electromagnetic brake 10. For example, the auxiliary circuit breaker 21A is connected in the circuit of the auxiliary power supply device 17 upstream of the electromagnetic brake 10.

It should be noted that the auxiliary power supply 18, in an example embodiment, is included in the auxiliary power supply device 17, although, it might also be external (and separate therefrom).

It should be noted that the safety circuit breaker 21 B, in an example embodiment is included in the device 1 (more specifically, in the stator circuit 20), although, it might also be external (and separate therefrom). Whatever the case, the safety circuit breaker 21 B, and more in general, the circuit breaker 21 is included in the roll-up appliance 100. Similarly, the auxiliary circuit breaker 21A, in an example embodiment is included in the device 1 (more specifically, in the auxiliary power supply device 17), although, it might also be external (and separate therefrom). Whatever the case, the auxiliary circuit breaker 21A, and more in general, the circuit breaker 21 is included in the roll-up appliance 100.

The drive device 1 comprises a power cable 200. The power cable 200 comprises a plurality of electric wires (leads).

In an example embodiment, the power cable includes one or more of the following electric wires: a ground wire 201 , a neutral wire 202, a first phase wire 203, a second phase wire 204 and an auxiliary wire 205.

The purpose of the ground wire 201 is to connect the stator circuit 20, that is, the electric motor, to earth.

The purpose of the neutral wire 202 is to connect the stator circuit 20 to a neutral wire of the primary power supply.

The purpose of the first phase wire 203 is to connect the stator circuit 20 to a phase wire of the primary power supply having a first polarity, in order to allow the electric motor to rotate in a first direction of rotation.

The purpose of the second phase wire 204 is to connect the stator circuit 20 to a phase wire of the primary power supply having a second polarity, in order to allow the electric motor to rotate in a second direction of rotation.

The auxiliary wire 205 is connected to the node R. The purpose of the auxiliary wire 205 is to connect the electromagnetic brake 10 to the auxiliary power supply 18 through the auxiliary power supply device 7.

Preferably, the device 1 comprises (at least) all five of the electric wires listed above. Preferably, the wires 201-205 are contained inside the same sheath to define the power cable 200.

It should be noted that the auxiliary wire 205 is included in the auxiliary power supply device 17.

In an example embodiment, the device 1 comprises one or more of the following five output terminals: a ground terminal "C", a neutral terminal "D", a first phase terminal "E", a second phase terminal "F" and an auxiliary terminal "G".

The purpose of the ground terminal "C" is to allow the stator circuit 20 to be connected to earth. In an example embodiment, the ground terminal "C" is connected to (or defined by) a (free) end of the ground wire 201 (where the end of the ground wire 201 is accessible from the outside of the device 1).

The purpose of the neutral terminal "D" is to connect the stator circuit 20 to a neutral wire of the primary power supply. In an example embodiment, the neutral terminal "D" is connected to (or defined by) a (free) end of the neutral wire 202 (where the end of the neutral wire 202 is accessible from the outside of the device 1 ).

The purpose of the first phase terminal "E" is to connect the stator circuit 20 to a phase wire of the primary power supply having the first polarity. In an example embodiment, the first phase terminal Έ" is connected to (or defined by) a (free) end of the first phase wire 203 (where the end of the first wire 203 is accessible from the outside of the device 1).

The purpose of the second phase terminal "F" is to connect the stator circuit 20 to a phase wire of the primary power supply having the second polarity. In an example embodiment, the second phase terminal "F" is connected to (or defined by) a (free) end of the second phase wire 204 (where the end of the second wire 204 is accessible from the outside of the device 1).

The purpose of the auxiliary terminal "G" is to allow the node "R" to be connected to the auxiliary power supply 18 through the auxiliary power supply device 17. In an example embodiment, the auxiliary terminal "G" is connected to the node "R" by the auxiliary wire 205. For example, the auxiliary wire 205 has a first end connected to the node "R" and a second end connected to (or defined by) the auxiliary terminal "G". The second end of the auxiliary wire 205 is accessible from the outside of the device 1. Preferably, the device 1 comprises (at least) all five of the electric terminals listed above. Preferably, these terminals are accessible from the outside of the device 1.

In an example embodiment, these terminals are defined by respective wires of the power cable 200.

In an example embodiment, the auxiliary power supply device 17 comprises an auxiliary circuit. The auxiliary circuit is connectable to the auxiliary power supply 18; or the auxiliary power supply 18 forms part of the auxiliary circuit.

The auxiliary circuit has a first contact and a second contact for electrically connecting the auxiliary circuit itself to the other parts of the device 1.

In an example embodiment, the first contact of the auxiliary circuit is connected to the auxiliary wire 205. For example, the first contact of the auxiliary circuit is connected to the auxiliary wire 205 through the auxiliary circuit breaker 21A. In an example embodiment, the second contact of the auxiliary circuit is connected to the neutral wire 202. For example, the second contact of the auxiliary circuit is connected to the neutral wire 202 through the safety circuit breaker 21 B.

In an example embodiment, the circuit breaker 21 comprises a relay 32. The relay 32 is connected to the auxiliary circuit breaker 21A and the safety circuit breaker 21 B to drive them in coordinated manner (thus guaranteeing that closure of the auxiliary circuit breaker 21A corresponds to opening of the safety circuit breaker 21 B).

In an example embodiment, the device 1 (more in general the appliance 100, and more specifically, the auxiliary power supply device 17) comprises a circuit breaker 33 provided with a system for locking/unlocking, for example by means of a key.

The circuit breaker 33 provided with a locking/unlocking system is connected to the relay 32 in order to power it. In an example embodiment, the circuit breaker 33 provided with a locking/unlocking system is electrically interposed between the relay 32 and the auxiliary power supply 18.

In an example embodiment, the auxiliary power supply device 17 comprises a remote control device. More specifically, the remote control device comprises a signal emitter and receiver. The receiver is connected to the circuit breaker 21 to drive it in response to a control signal received. Preferably, the drive device 1 comprises a limit device 22.

The limit device 22 is configured to interrupt the power supply to the stator circuit 20 when a predetermined stop condition occurs, for example when the roll-up element 2 reaches the rolled-up or extended configuration.

In an example embodiment (not illustrated, the limit device 22 is an electronic device. In such case, the device 22 comprises a sensor and a control unit (for example having a processor and a memory) connected to the sensor.

In the example illustrated, the limit device 22 is electromechanical and preferably has one or more of the features set out in the description below. More in detail, the limit device 22 comprises a splined shaft rotating about a second axis of rotation "B" substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis "A".

The limit device 22 comprises a first and a second threaded shaft, both mounted on a supporting block on opposite sides of the splined shaft. The first and second threaded shafts are parallel to each other and substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis "A". The first threaded shaft is coupled to a first toothed limiting wheel and the second threaded shaft is coupled to a second toothed limiting wheel. The first and second toothed limiting wheels mesh with the splined shaft. More in detail, the first and second threaded shafts have right-hand threading and left-hand threading, respectively, so that rotation of the splined shaft produces on the first and second threaded shafts a longitudinal movement of the toothed limiting wheels in opposite directions. The limit device 22 is also provided with a first and a second stator circuit breaker, mounted at an axial end of the first and second threaded shafts, respectively. The first and second stator circuit breakers are configured to be closed/opened by the first and second toothed limiting wheels, respectively, when they reach the axial end of the respective threaded shaft.

More in detail, the limit device 22 is provided with a first and a second spacer, movable in the longitudinal direction and coupled at the axial end of the first and second threaded shafts, respectively (that is, at the first and second stator circuit breaker). More specifically, the first and second spacers are configured to move in the longitudinal direction on an end portion of the respective threaded shaft under the pushing action of the respective toothed limiting wheel in such a way as to trip the respective stator circuit breaker, thereby cutting the power supply to the stator circuit 20.

From what is described above, it should be specified that the position of each toothed limiting wheel along the respective threaded shaft can be adjusted manually using the customary screw elements included in the drive "device 1. More specifically, the screw elements comprise shafts equipped with suitable gears through which a suitable rotational movement is imparted from the outside to the threaded shafts, each of which, by rotating about its respective axis, causes the respective toothed limiting wheel to move in the longitudinal direction. This technical solution allows adjusting the distance of each toothed limiting wheel from the respective spacer, thereby allowing the limit device 22 to be manually calibrated from the outside. The limit device 22 further comprises an input pinion which is keyed to a free end of the splined shaft and whose function is to rotationally drive the splined shaft itself.

Preferably, the electric motor 6, the reduction gear unit 8 and the electromagnetic brake 10 are aligned along the longitudinal axis "A". In an example embodiment, the electric motor 6 is mounted between the reduction gear unit 8 and the electromagnetic brake 10. In an example embodiment, the electromagnetic brake 10 is mounted between the electric motor 6 and the reduction gear unit 8. Preferably, the electromagnetic brake 10 is mounted between the limit device 22 and the electric motor 6.

In the embodiment illustrated, the winding roller 4 is hollow inside and the electric motor 6, the reduction gear unit 8 and the electromagnetic brake 10 are mounted inside the winding roller 4. Still more preferably, the limit device 22 is mounted inside the winding roller 4.

In the embodiment illustrated, the electric motor 6, the reduction gear unit 8, the electromagnetic brake 10 and the limit device 22 are mounted inside a cylindrical guard 3 which is elongate in the longitudinal direction and has a first and a second end.

The drive shaft 9, projecting outwardly from the first end of the cylindrical guard 3, is configured to be coupled to a first drive element 25. The first drive element 25 is configured to be coupled geometrically to the winding roller 4. Preferably, the winding roller 4 has a polygonal cross section. The drive shaft 9 is connected to the first drive element 25, which is shaped to match the winding roller 4 to be coupled geometrically thereto.

In the particular embodiment illustrated, the second end of the cylindrical guard 3 comprises a second drive element 19, which is shaped to match the winding roller 4. The second drive element 19, driven by the winding roller 4, is connected to the limiting device 22 and drives it by means of the input pinion.

Preferably, the drive device 1 comprises an elastic element connected to the winding roller 4 to be placed in tension during movement of the roll-up element 2 from the rolled-up configuration to the extended configuration. The elastic element generates a return force by which the drive shaft 9 is rotated in a winding direction. It should be noted that in the absence of power to the electric stator circuit 20, the auxiliary power supply device 17 may power the electromagnetic brake 10 to allow the winding roller 4 to rotate in the winding direction under the action of the return force.

Preferably, the elastic element comprises a helical spring 23 having a movable end which is configured to rotate as one with the winding roller 4 and a fixed end to be placed in tension when the drive shaft 9 is rotated in the extending direction.

In the particular embodiment illustrated, the helical spring 23 is wound around a supporting shaft 26 having a first and a second end. A movable hub 24 is coupled to the first end of the supporting shaft 26 and freely rotatable thereon. The movable hub 24 is coupled to a third drive element 27, which is rotationally driven by the winding roller 4. The movable hub 24 is connected to the movable end of the helical spring 23. The second end of the supporting shaft 26 comprises a fixed hub (not shown in Figure 1) connected to the fixed end of the helical element 23. It should be noted that the second end of the supporting shaft 26 also comprises a fourth drive element 28, connected idly to the second end to be coupled to the winding roller 4 and to be rotationally driven as one therewith. In a variant embodiment of the invention, the fixed end of the helical spring 23 is connected to a fixed hub located at the first end of the supporting shaft 26 and the movable end is connected to the fourth drive element 28. It should be noted that the cylindrical guard 3 and the supporting shaft 26 of the helical spring 23 are coaxial (that is, they have the same longitudinal axis "A").

In the embodiment illustrated, the first end of the cylindrical guard 3 and the second end of the supporting shaft 26 are configured to be fixed to a wall by means of a first and a second supporting plate 29,30.

The drive device 1 also comprises a plurality of fastening springs 31 configured to connect the winding roller 4 to the roll-up element 2.

Also defined according to this invention is a method for using a device 1 for driving a roll-up element 2, wherein the device 1 comprises a drive shaft 9 connected to an electric motor 6 and coupled to a winding roller 4 to drive the roll-up element 2 between a rolled-up configuration and an extended configuration, and an electromagnetic brake 10 powered in series with a stator circuit 20 of the electric motor 6 to be set in a rest position where the transmission shaft 7 is free to rotate, when it is electrically powered. The method comprises a step of activating an auxiliary power supply device 17 for powering the electromagnetic brake 10 in the absence of power to the stator circuit 20.

If the auxiliary power supply device 17 comprises a signal emitter and receiver, the step of activating the auxiliary power supply device 17 comprises closing a circuit breaker 21 after a signal is emitted by the emitter and received by the receiver.

If the drive device 1 comprises an elastic element, which is placed in tension during movement of the roll-up element 2 from the rolled-up configuration to the extended configuration, activating the auxiliary power supply device 17 allows an emergency operation, in the absence of power supply to the stator circuit 20 of the electric motor 6, for driving the roll-up element 2 towards the rolled-up configuration. This description also provides a method for using a device 1 for driving a roll-up element 2.

The device 1 includes a drive shaft 9 connected to an electric motor 6 and coupled to a winding roller 4 to drive the roll-up element 2 between a rolled-up configuration and an extended configuration, and comprising an electromagnetic brake 10 powered in series with a stator circuit 20 of the electric motor 6 to be set in a rest position where the transmission shaft 7 is free to rotate, when it is electrically powered.

The method comprises a step of activating an auxiliary power supply device 17 for powering the electromagnetic brake 10 in the absence of power to the stator circuit 20.

In an example embodiment, the step of activating the auxiliary device 17 comprises a step of connecting the electromagnetic brake 10 to an auxiliary power supply.

In an example embodiment, the method comprises a step of breaking the stator circuit 20 simultaneously with the step of connecting the electromagnetic brake 10 to the auxiliary power supply.

In an example embodiment, the step of connecting the electromagnetic brake 10 to the auxiliary power supply 8 is accomplished by means of an auxiliary electric wire 505 having a first end connected to the stator circuit 20 (for example at the node "R" which is electrically interposed between the stator circuit 20 and the electromagnetic brake 10), and a second end which is electrically connected to the auxiliary power supply.

Claims

1. A device (1 ) for driving a roll-up element, comprising:

- a drive shaft (9);

- a winding roller (4), connected to the drive shaft (9) to rotate as one therewith about a longitudinal axis of rotation (A) and to move the roll-up element (2) in a movement direction, between a rolled-up configuration and an extended configuration;

- an electric motor (6), having a stator (6a) and a rotor (6b), wherein the rotor (6a) defines a transmission shaft (7) having a first and a second end;

- a reduction gear unit (8), having an input coupled to the first end of the transmission shaft (7) and an output connected to the drive shaft (9);

- an electromagnetic brake (10) connected to the second end of the transmission shaft (7) and movable between an active position, where it prevents the transmission shaft (7) from rotating, and a rest position, where it allows the transmission shaft (7) to rotate, wherein the electromagnetic brake (10) is in the rest position when it is electrically powered;

- a stator electrical circuit (20) of the stator (6a) connected to the electromagnetic brake (10) to be electrically powered in series therewith, by a primary electrical power supply, so that when the stator circuit (20) is powered, the electromagnetic brake (10) is also powered,

characterized in that it comprises an auxiliary power supply device (17), connected to the electromagnetic brake (10) at a node that is electrically interposed between the stator circuit (20) and the electromagnetic brake (10), for powering the electromagnetic brake (10) without powering the stator circuit (20).

2. The device (1) according to claim 1 , wherein the auxiliary power supply device (17) comprises at least one circuit breaker (21) configured to connect and disconnect the electromagnetic brake (10) to and from an auxiliary power supply.

3. The device (1) according to claim 2, wherein the circuit breaker (21) is configured to break the stator circuit (20) simultaneously with a step of connecting the electromagnetic brake (10) to the auxiliary power supply.

4. The device(1) according to claim 2 or 3, comprising:

- at least one safety circuit breaker (21 B) forming part of the stator circuit (20);

- an interlock acting on the safety circuit breaker and on the at least one circuit breaker (21) of the auxiliary power supply device (17) to force the safety circuit breaker to open in response to the closing of the circuit breaker (21) of the auxiliary power supply device (17).

5. The device (1) according to claim 4, wherein the at least one safety circuit breaker forms part of the stator circuit (20) upstream of the electromagnetic brake (10), which means the safety circuit breaker is interposed between the electromagnetic brake (10) and the primary power supply.

6. The device (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the auxiliary power supply device (17) comprises a signal receiver connected to the circuit breaker (21) for controlling it in response to a control signal received.

7. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the auxiliary power supply device (17) comprises an auxiliary power supply.

8. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electromagnetic brake (10) comprises a first disk (15) which is movable as a function of the power supply of the electromagnetic brake (10) and is configured to press against a second disk (16) coupled to the second end of the transmission shaft (7) to stop it.

9. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electric motor (6), the reduction gear unit (8) and the electromagnetic brake (10) are aligned along the longitudinal axis "A" of the winding roller (4).

10. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the winding roller (4) is hollow inside and wherein the electric motor (6), the reduction gear unit (8) and the electromagnetic brake (10) are located inside the winding roller (4).

11. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the winding roller (4) has a polygonal cross section, and wherein the drive shaft (9) is connected to a drive element (25) shaped to match the winding roller (4) and is coupled geometrically to one end of the winding roller (4).

12. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising an elastic element connected to the winding roller (4) to be placed in tension during movement of the roll-up element (2) from the rolled-up configuration to the extended configuration, thus generating a return force.

13. The device (1) according to claim 12, wherein the elastic element comprises a helical spring (23), which is coaxial to the drive shaft (9).

14. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a limit device (22), configured to interrupt the power supply to the stator circuit (20) when the roll-up element (2) reaches the rolled-up and extended configurations.

15. The device (1) according to claim 14, wherein the winding roller (4) is hollow inside and wherein the limit device (22) is housed inside the winding roller (4).

16. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least the following five output terminals, accessible from the outside of the drive device (1):

- a ground terminal (C) for connecting the stator circuit (20) to earth;

- a neutral terminal (D) for connecting the stator circuit (20) to a neutral wire of the primary power supply;

- a first phase terminal (E) for connecting the stator circuit (20) to a phase wire of the primary power supply having a first polarity; - a second phase terminal (F) for connecting the stator circuit (20) to a phase wire of the primary power supply having a second polarity;

- an auxiliary terminal (G) for connecting the node to the auxiliary power supply through the auxiliary power supply device 17.

17. The device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a power cable (200) comprising at least the following five electric wires:

- a ground wire (201) for connecting the stator circuit (20) to earth;

- a neutral wire (202) for connecting the stator circuit (20) to a neutral wire of the primary power supply;

- a first phase wire (203) for connecting the stator circuit (20) to a phase wire of the primary power supply having a first polarity;

- a second phase wire (204) for connecting the stator circuit (20) to a phase wire of the primary power supply having a second polarity;

- an auxiliary wire (205) for connecting the node to the auxiliary power supply through the auxiliary power supply device (17), wherein the auxiliary wire is included in the auxiliary power supply device (17).

18. A roll-up appliance (100) comprising a roll-up element (2) and a device (1) for driving the roll-up element, wherein the drive device (1) is a device according to any one of the preceding claims.

19. A method for using a device (1) for driving a roll-up element (2), wherein the device (1) comprises a drive shaft (9) connected to an electric motor (6) and coupled to a winding roller (4) to move the roll-up element (2) between a rolled-up configuration and an extended configuration, and comprising an electromagnetic brake (10) powered in series with a stator circuit (20) of the electric motor (6) to be set in a rest position where the transmission shaft (7) is free to rotate when it is electrically powered, characterized in that it comprises a step of activating an auxiliary power supply device (17) for powering the electromagnetic brake (10) in the absence of power to the stator circuit (20).

20. The method according to claim 17, wherein the auxiliary power supply device (17) comprises a signal emitter and receiver, and wherein the step of activating the auxiliary power supply device (17) comprises closing a 125 circuit breaker (21) after a signal emitted by the emitter and received by the receiver.

21. The method according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the drive device (1) comprises an elastic element, which is placed in tension during movement of the roll-up element (2) from the rolled-up configuration to the extended

130 configuration, so that activating the auxiliary power supply device (17) allows an emergency operation, in the absence of power supply to the stator circuit (20) of the electric motor (6), for driving the roll-up element (2) towards the rolled-up configuration.

22. The method according to any one of claims 19 to 21 , wherein the step 135 of activating the auxiliary device (17) comprises a step of connecting the electromagnetic brake (10) to an auxiliary power supply, wherein the method comprises a step of breaking the stator circuit (20) simultaneously with the step of connecting the electromagnetic brake (10) to the auxiliary power supply.

140 23. The method according to any one of claims 19 to 22, wherein the step of activating the auxiliary device (17) comprises a step of connecting the electromagnetic brake (10) to an auxiliary power supply by means of an auxiliary electric wire (205) having a first end connected to a node which is electrically interposed between the stator circuit (20) and the

145 electromagnetic brake (10), and a second end which is electrically connected to the auxiliary power supply, wherein the drive device (1) includes, besides the auxiliary wire:

- a ground wire (201) for connecting the stator circuit (20) to earth;

- a neutral wire (202) for connecting the stator circuit (20) to a neutral wire 150 of the primary power supply;

- a second phase wire (204) for connecting the stator circuit (20) to a phase wire of the primary power supply having a second polarity.

24. The method according to any one of claims 19 to 23, wherein the step of activating the auxiliary device (17) comprises a step of connecting the electromagnetic brake (10) to an auxiliary power supply by means of an auxiliary terminal (G) which is electrically connected to a node, electrically interposed between the stator circuit (20) and the electromagnetic brake (10), and to the auxiliary power supply, wherein the drive device (1) includes, besides the auxiliary terminal:

- a ground terminal (C) for connecting the stator circuit (20) to earth;

- a first phase terminal (E) for connecting the stator circuit (20) to a phase wire of the primary power supply having a first polarity;

- a second phase terminal (F) for connecting the stator circuit (20) to a phase wire of the primary power supply having a second polarity, wherein the terminals (C,D,E,F,G) are accessible from the outside of the drive device (1).