WO2020148717A1

WO2020148717A1 - Weather-resistant patio cover with transverse liquid drainage

Info

Publication number: WO2020148717A1
Application number: PCT/IB2020/050372
Authority: WO
Inventors: Thomas VERVISCH; Lennart DE MEULEMEESTER; Stijn Colpaert
Original assignee: Renson Sunprotection-Screens Nv
Priority date: 2019-01-17
Filing date: 2020-01-17
Publication date: 2020-07-23
Also published as: BE1026974A1; BE1026974B1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a weather-resistant patio cover comprising an awning (1), a frame (2) and a drainage gutter (3), suitable for spanning a surface to be protected (A), which frame comprises a front side (4), a rear side (5) and two lateral sides (6, 6'), to which rear side (5) a roll-out housing (8) is coupled, wherein the awning (1) can be rolled in and/or out relative to said roll-out housing (8) in a discharge direction parallel to the lateral sides (6, 6') of the frame (2), wherein this awning (1) further comprises a passage strip (11) suitable for the passage of a liquid, and wherein the passage strip (11) and the drainage gutter (3) are oriented transversely to the discharge direction (BB').

Description

WEATHER-RESISTANT PATIO COVER WITH TRANSVERSE LIQUID DRAINAGE

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention relates to a structure for protecting a surface against external weather conditions.

More specifically, the invention is in the technical area of weather-resistant patio covers.

PRIOR ART

Conventional patio covers are often and primarily intended as sun blinds, but they may also have a rain-protection function. Patio covers which comprise a roof infill consisting of textile, i.e. an awning, are, however, less suitable for fulfilling this additional function, since they tend to form a water pocket when exposed to rainwater. The formation of such a water pocket can lead to (possibly permanent) damage to the patio cover.

In order to meet the problem of water pocket formation, DE 89 04 126 discloses various sun blinds, wherein drainage holes are provided in the awning. The sun blinds in question can be folded in and out using hinged arms, which may have drainage gutters. In the condition where the hinged arms are fully extended, the drainage gutters are aligned with the drainage holes, whereby the drainage of rainwater via these drainage gutters is possible. A drawback of the described construction is that water drainage is only possible in the condition in which the sunblind is fully folded out, and thus in which the hinged arms are fully extended.

EP 3 299 538 further discloses a sun blind in which an awning is clamped on four sides and wherein sagging of the cloth is deliberately intended. The awning is provided with one or more drainage holes, which are positioned centrally in the awning in its discharge direction. As a result, in the case of rainfall, a water pocket of limited size is formed centrally on the cloth, after which the water is drained via the drainage holes into a water drainage gutter. The water drainage gutter is positioned in the discharge direction of the awning. The awning can thus be rolled in and out. However, since the discharge direction is predominantly the longest direction, EP '538 has the disadvantage that the drainage gutter presents a great risk of sagging. This may also cause a quantity of residual water to remain in the gutter, which may give rise to odour nuisance. Moreover, a long gutter has a smaller slope over the same height drop in comparison with a short gutter, as a result of which more limited flow rates are realised and the accumulation of dirt can lead to blockages in the long term. If the patio cover is used with a partially unrolled awning, even lower flow rates are observed, which further increases the risk of accumulation of dirt. Moreover, a long drainage gutter is not very attractive and is visible at all times, even when the awning has been rolled in.

Furthermore, EP 3 421 682, US 2008/135187 and DE 10 2017 109789 describe sun and/or rain awnings which provide drainage of rainwater. However, none of these documents provides a solution to the problems described herein.

Consequently, there is a need for an improved patio cover that offers good sun protection and at the same time provides an efficient and attractive solution for draining rainwater.

The object of the present invention is to at least solve some of the above-mentioned problems or disadvantages.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

To this end, the present invention provides a weather-resistant patio cover according to claim 1. The patio cover comprises an awning and a frame provided with a drainage gutter, suitable for spanning a surface to be protected. The frame comprises a front side, a rear side and two lateral sides, wherein the rear side is provided with a roll out housing comprising a roller. The awning can be rolled in and/or rolled out with respect to said roll-out housing in a discharge direction parallel to the lateral sides of the frame. The awning further comprises a passage strip, preferably provided with water-permeable perforations, suitable for the passage of a liquid. The passage strip and the drainage gutter are oriented transversely to the direction of the discharge direction. Since the lateral sides of such a patio cover are generally longer than the front and rear, this has the advantage that the drainage gutter and the passage strip can be made with a shorter length. Higher flow rates are hereby realised in the discharge of a liquid, for example rainwater. As a result, dirt is washed away more efficiently, so that its accumulation in the drainage gutter remains substantially absent. Moreover, a short passage strip and drainage gutter that are perpendicular to the discharge direction are less visually conspicuous, which contributes to the attractiveness of the patio cover.

Preferred embodiments of the patio cover are shown in the dependent claims 2 to 26.

A specific preferred embodiment relates to the patio cover according to claim 2. Here, the drainage gutter is slidable transversely to the lateral sides of the frame. As a result, the drainage gutter can be placed under the passage strip in any situation, which guarantees a good liquid drainage. Even when the awning is only partially rolled out, the drainage gutter can be positioned directly under the passage strip.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 shows the perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the patio cover according to the present invention in a rolled-out state.

Figure 2a shows the front view of the drainage gutter according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 2b shows the side view of the drainage gutter according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 3a shows the perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the patio cover according to the present invention in a rolled-out state.

Figure 3b shows the side view of a preferred embodiment of the patio cover according to the present invention in a rolled-out state.

Figure 3c shows the top view of a preferred embodiment of the patio cover according to the present invention in a rolled-out state.

Figure 4a shows the perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the patio cover according to the present invention in a rolled in state. Figure 4b shows the side view of a preferred embodiment of the patio cover according to the present invention in a rolled in state.

Figure 5 shows a detailed side view of the flaps and the drainage gutter according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 6 shows a detailed top view of the passage strip according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 7 shows a detailed, open side view of the roll-out housing according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention relates to a weather-resistant patio cover comprising an awning and a drainage gutter, wherein the awning is provided with a passage strip suitable for the passage of a liquid. The passage strip and the drainage gutter are hereby oriented transversely to the discharge direction of the awning. Since the awning usually rolls in and/or rolls out over its shortest side, this orientation has the advantage that the drainage gutter and the passage strip can be made shorter than if they had been positioned in the discharge direction of the awning. As a result, higher flow rates can be realised in the discharge of a liquid, for example rainwater. As a result, dirt is washed away more efficiently, so that its accumulation in the drainage gutter remains substantially absent. Moreover, less, if any, residual water remains in the drainage gutter.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in the description of the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning as commonly understood by a person skilled in the art to which the invention pertains. For a better understanding of the description of the invention, the following terms are explained explicitly.

In this document, 'a' and 'the' refer to both the singular and the plural, unless the context presupposes otherwise. For example, 'a segment' means one or more segments.

When the term 'around' or 'about' is used in this document with a measurable quantity, a parameter, a duration or moment, and the like, then variations are meant of approx. 20% or less, preferably approx. 10% or less, more preferably approx. 5% or less, even more preferably approx. 1% or less, and even more preferably approx. 0.1% or less than and of the quoted value, insofar as such variations are applicable in the described invention. However, it must be understood that the value of a quantity used where the term 'about' or 'around' is used, is itself specifically disclosed.

The terms 'comprise', 'comprising', 'consist of', 'consisting of', 'provided with', 'include', 'including', 'contain', 'containing', are synonyms and are inclusive or open terms that indicate the presence of what follows, and which do not exclude or prevent the presence of other components, characteristics, elements, members, steps, as known from or disclosed in the prior art.

Quoting numerical intervals by endpoints includes all integers, fractions and/or real numbers between the endpoints, these endpoints included.

The weather-resistant patio cover according to the present invention comprises, according to an embodiment, an awning and a frame provided with a drainage gutter, suitable for spanning a surface to be protected. In the context of the present invention, a 'patio cover' is understood to mean any device suitable for spanning, covering over and/or covering a surface and/or space. Relevant surfaces and/or spaces comprise, in addition to patios, balconies, lawns, paths, swimming pools, ponds, sports fields and equivalents thereof. Relevant surfaces comprise by extension all surfaces that occur in private and/or public gardens, city gardens, parks and/or domains.

The term 'awning' refers to any (preferably flat and flexible) material that provides the patio cover with its weather resistance. 'Weather resistance' in the context of the present invention comprises protection against and/or resistance to meteorological factors such as sun, wind, rain, hail, snow, or combinations thereof. Versatile weather resistance is particularly advantageous in a changing, temperate climate such as that in Western Europe. If the sun, clouds and/or rain alternate quickly, the awning does not have to be rolled in and out each time, which results in a large user benefit. Furthermore, 'drainage gutter' refers to any construction suitable for collecting and/or draining a liquid. The term 'discharge direction' describes the direction in which the patio cover is opened and/or closed, i.e. the direction in which the awning rolls in and/or out. The discharge direction further comprises the 'roll-in direction' and the 'roll-out direction', which technically indicate the direction of the discharge direction.

The term 'frame' indicates the structure on which and/or in which the various parts of the patio cover are supported and/or anchored. The frame of the patio cover comprises a front, a rear, two lateral sides and, optionally, one or more support posts. At the rear, a roll-out housing is coupled, in which the awning can be rolled in and/or rolled out in a discharge direction parallel to the lateral sides of the frame. The roll out housing has a protective function with regard to the rolled-in awning.

The awning further comprises a passage strip suitable for the passage of a liquid. A 'passage strip' in this context is any strip, band, and/or zone of the awning in which different perforations, holes, and/or openings are provided. The liquid is led through these perforations in the drainage gutter, as a result of which no liquid accumulates or remains on the awning.

The invention is characterised by the passage strip and the drainage gutter which are oriented transversely to the discharge direction. The transverse orientation has the advantage that the drainage gutter can be designed with a shorter length than if it were oriented in the discharge direction of the awning. When connecting a draining surface, in this context the awning, to a drainage gutter with short length, higher flow rates are achieved than if this surface were to connect to a long drainage gutter. Moreover, the drainage gutter can be mounted sloping, whereby a limited length again implies an advantage with regard to the flow rate. After all, the drainage gutter can be laid steeper over a short distance than over a long distance, while the same difference in height between the two end points of the drainage gutter is used. A high flow rate is desirable for a smooth discharge of liquids, for example rainwater, and any contaminants present in these liquids. Such contaminants comprise, among other things, dust, dirt or soil, which may give rise to an undesired accumulation in the drainage gutter, resulting in hampering of the liquid drainage and/or blockage. A high flow rate prevents such accumulation and/or blockage as contaminants are discharged quickly and efficiently and the drainage gutter therefore remains clean. Moreover, a short passage strip and drainage gutter that are perpendicular to the discharge direction are less visually conspicuous, which contributes to the attractiveness of the patio cover. The drainage gutter is preferably slidable parallel to, and in particular along, the lateral sides of the frame. As a result, the drainage gutter is located under the passage strip in every situation, which guarantees a good liquid drainage. Even when the awning is only partially rolled out, for example when only partial sun and/or rain protection of the patio is desired, the gutter is placed directly under the passage strip.

According to an embodiment, the drainage gutter is movable separately from the awning. When the awning is completely rolled in and/or the patio cover is not being used, the drainage gutter can be moved completely to the front or rear of the frame, whereby the patio cover also provides an attractive appearance even when not in use. Even in stable sunny weather, where purely sun protection is required, the drainage gutter can be moved out of sight to the front or rear. An additional advantage is that the full gutter length is also used in an incompletely rolled out state, so that the same discharge capacity is available as in the fully rolled out state.

The movement of the drainage gutter can possibly be coupled to the movement of the awning, so that only one manipulation is necessary for opening and/or closing the patio cover. For this purpose, according to an embodiment, the drainage gutter is coupled to the awning at the level of two connecting seams perpendicular to the discharge direction and on either side of the passage strip. Preferably, the awning and the drainage gutter are coupled to each other at the level of two welded joints, also referred to as joints. Such a coupling has the advantage that the drainage gutter moves together with the opening or closing movement of the awning, whereby the drainage gutter is placed under the passage strip at all times. This coupled condition also has the advantage that no liquid can splash out of the drainage gutter in the event of heavy rainfall and/or wind.

According to a further or other embodiment, the drainage gutter has a variable depth in its longitudinal direction, transverse to the discharge direction. Said variable depth makes it possible to guide the liquid to be discharged preferably to a specific end of the drainage gutter. Moreover, the liquid flow rate and/or the liquid velocity in the drainage gutter can be accurately adjusted by means of the variable depth.

In particular, the depth at the level of a central section along the longitudinal direction, preferably substantially a central point along the longitudinal direction, of the drainage gutter is smaller than the depth at the ends of the drainage gutter in its longitudinal direction. This configuration allows the liquid to be evenly discharged to the drainage gutter at both ends. As a result, the drainage gutter, as well as the awning itself, are evenly loaded by the liquid present, and the awning hangs evenly. As a result, the risk of warping of the awning is minimal and the chance that the liquid leaves the awning via a different route than the drainage gutter is furthermore also reduced.

Furthermore, preferably, the depth of the drainage gutter exhibits a substantially concave course along the longitudinal direction, wherein said course is strictly descending from the central portion along the longitudinal direction towards the ends of the drainage gutter. Not only does this ensure a flowing liquid drainage to both ends of the drainage gutter, it also compensates for the natural sagging of the awning by this concave course of the depth of the drainage gutter.

More preferably, the substantially concave course along the longitudinal direction of the drainage gutter has an angle of inclination comprised between 5° and 45°. This angle of inclination takes into account the natural water pocket formation on the awning. The natural water pocket formation on the awning provides a buffer volume on the surface of the awning, which buffer volume forms as a result of the difference in height between the centre of the awning and the outer sides of the awning, this under the influence of the weight of the liquid present on the awning. This buffer volume can be emptied in a delayed manner via the passage strip in the drainage gutter. The difference in height between the centre of the awning and the outer sides of the awning is adequately compensated for by said concave course, resulting in a net inclination angle which guarantees a balanced liquid drainage and optimally utilises the possible liquid buffering on the surface of the awning. Even more preferably, said angle of inclination is between 5° and 20°, most preferably between 5° and 15°.

According to an embodiment, the connecting seams are situated on opposite sides of the drainage gutter and extend over a certain width, preferably from said side, wherein the drainage gutter extends towards the roller at both said opposite ends. Said orientation of the connecting seams guarantees the smooth rolling in and/or out of both the awning and the drainage gutter on the roll-out device. The rolled-up drainage gutter hereby causes a minimal bulge on the roll-out device, so that the roll-out housing can be provided with a limited size. The connecting seams according to the stated orientation are moreover optimally watertight and sufficiently strong to be able to carry a considerable liquid weight.

An embodiment of the present invention comprises a drainage gutter comprising a textile selected from the group of polyester, polyvinyl chloride-polyester copolymer, polyacrylic, or combinations thereof. The textile has a high tensile resistance and is extremely suitable for frequent rolling up and unrolling on the roll-out device without being subject to deformation. The high tensile resistance also allows the textile to support a considerable weight of liquid without exhibiting distortion. According to a further embodiment, the textile is coated with a coating comprising polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The coating contributes to the liquid-repellent properties of the awning, which are required in the context of the present object of the invention. PVC minimises the water permeability of the drainage gutter, prevents water seepage and guarantees good fluid flow. Moreover, the applied coating ensures a further reinforcement of the drainage gutter.

According to a further or other embodiment, the drainage gutter, preferably bearing- mounted, is coupled to the frame of the patio cover.

A further or other embodiment comprises the patio cover, wherein the awning comprises one or more flaps on its underside, which flaps are coupled on either side of the passage strip and transversely to the discharge direction. The flaps are suitable for guiding the draining liquid in the drainage gutter, which guarantees a smooth flow of the liquid so that the awning is relieved quickly and efficiently, also in extreme situations, such as for example heavy rainfall. Furthermore, in strong winds there is a risk that the draining liquid is blown away, so that it is no longer carried off to the drainage gutter. The provision of the aforementioned flaps guarantees correct run off even in extreme weather conditions such as strong winds and/or squalls.

The flaps furthermore reduce the risk of splashing liquid when the liquid flows off from the awning into the drainage gutter. Splashing liquid is of course an undesirable phenomenon since the object of the present invention is to protect the surface to be spanned. In situations where a large volume and/or flow of liquid flows off the awning in a short time, the flaps guarantee a certain form of temporary buffering, wherein the liquid level in the drainage gutter can rise above its actual, physical limits. In this situation, the built-up water level ensures a substantially liquid-tight closure between the flaps and the drainage gutter, so that the liquid level can theoretically rise to the awning itself. Preferably, the closure between the flaps, the awning and the drainage gutter is substantially perfectly liquid-tight due to the built-up water level, so that the entire volume enclosed by the drainage gutter, the flaps and the awning serves as temporary buffer volume.

The flaps are preferably flexible, more preferably directed slightly towards each other, coupled to the awning. The flexibility of the flaps, as well as the facing each other position, guarantees an optimal liquid flow from the awning to the drainage gutter. The flexibility of the flaps allows a certain deformation, which among other things depends on the speed and the flow rate of the liquid flow, as well as the water height of the buffered liquid volume. This flexibility allows an optimum liquid-tight seal between the flaps and the drainage gutter.

When rolling the awning in and/or out, the flaps can be folded in and/or folded out thanks to their flexibility, so that the awning can be stored completely in the roll-out housing when not in use. When rolling out, the flaps fold out to such an extent that they are located on the inside of the drainage gutter, resulting in an optimum liquid conduction.

According to a further or other embodiment, the awning comprises an open end, which open end is coupled to a rail. The rail is slidable transversely to the lateral sides of the frame and promotes the smooth rolling in and rolling out of the awning. Preferably, the rail is bearing-mounted on the lateral sides of the frame.

According to a further or other embodiment, the awning can be tensioned in the discharge direction. A suitable tensioning can be obtained by a multitude of suitable systems as known from the prior art. The obtained tensioning of the awning has the advantage that the awning will not sag. In more extreme situations, such as heavy rainfall, where a large flow of liquid must be discharged in a relatively short time, the tensioning ensures that sagging of the awning is prevented. If the awning starts to sag, a buffer zone may form in the sagging part. The volume of liquid that is present in this sagging buffer zone may be below the level of the drainage gutter. This means that this liquid volume cannot be discharged. It goes without saying that such buffering is undesirable, since the weight of the buffered, non-drained liquid volume has a negative impact on the operation of the patio cover and may possibly even damage it. By tensioning the awning, such risks are minimised, so that a good liquid drainage is guaranteed at all times and the patio cover is guaranteed a long service life. Preferably, the awning is tensioned by means of a tensioning element as known in the prior art. A 'tensioning element' in the context of the present invention is any device that exerts a force to create and/or maintain tension.

According to an embodiment, the tensioning element is located at the level of the roller, at the level of the rail and/or is contained in the lateral sides of the frame. Said locations are extremely suitable for placing the tensioning element in an attractive, possibly invisible manner, in order to obtain a good tensioning. Preferably, the tensioning element is located at the level of the rail.

The tensioning element from the preceding embodiments exerts a mild force on the awning, whereby a tension is created on the awning in the discharge direction and sagging is minimised. Tensioning by means of such a tensioning element has the advantage that the tensioning is very reliable and that a changed load is responded to quickly. Fast-responding tensioning elements may be based on a spring system and/or a hydraulic system. Quick response to changing circumstances is desirable in order to be able to respond to potentially extreme weather situations, such as heavy rain and/or wind.

Tensioning transversely to the discharge direction of the awning is also realised according to an embodiment, this by providing one or more bulges on either side of the awning on the edges of the awning parallel to the discharge direction. Said bulges can be guided during the rolling out and in, in a guide, which guide is contained in, or is coupled to, both lateral sides of the frame. The guide herein comprises a cavity along the lateral sides of the frame, preferably extending over substantially the full length of said lateral sides. More preferably, the cavity extends over substantially the full length of the surface A to be protected, which runs parallel to the discharge direction. The conductor is herein provided with an opening slot over its entire length, which slot connects the cavity with the space outside the guide. This opening slot faces the guide on the opposite lateral side of the frame, and has a width smaller than the bulge of the edge of the awning.

In a more plastic representation of the bulge, it can be represented as a T-shaped edge of the awning, which extends over the entire length of the awning, at the edges parallel to the roll-out direction. In that sense, the one or more bulges are preferably in the form of a plurality of toothed bulges, similar to zipper teeth (i.e. half a zipper), in order to impact the roll-up ability of the awning as little as possible. The guide can be represented as a C-shaped profile extending over the greater part of the length on the lateral sides of the frame, preferably over substantially the full length of the surface A to be protected parallel to the discharge direction of the awning. The cavity of the C-shaped profile is in this case dimensioned to be able to enclose the bulges, preferably completely and closely fitting. Moreover, the opening of the C-shaped profile is dimensioned to prevent the bulge from leaving the profile.

In an alternative, or additional, embodiment, a plurality of connectors, preferably zipper teeth (i.e. half a zipper) outwardly oriented with respect to the awning, are provided on the edges of the awning parallel to the discharge direction. Said zipper teeth can be, releasably, coupled when rolling out and in with complementary connectors, preferably outward -facing zipper teeth (i.e. half a zipper) provided on a guide on the lateral sides of the frame.

According to a further or other embodiment, the passage strip comprises perforations with an average, equivalent diameter, which is comprised between 5 and 10 mm. The term 'diameter' or 'equivalent diameter' is interpreted in the context of the present invention as the diameter of a circular channel or pipe that offers the same pressure loss or resistance as an equivalent rectangular, square, or generally differently shaped, channel. A person skilled in the art is able to calculate an equivalent diameter on the basis of a specific shape. That is, an equivalent diameter of a rectangular perforation is calculated using the Huebscher equation, for example. In the present context, the equivalent diameter is extremely important since the pressure loss determines the flow rate and/or the pressure at which the liquid flows through the perforations. With an average, equivalent diameter in the stated range, an ideal balance is achieved between a smooth discharge and a good buffering of the liquid on the surface of the awning. Larger diameters ensure that the available buffer space remains unused, while smaller diameters increase the risk of flooding and/or sagging of the awning. Preferably, the average, equivalent diameter of the perforations in the passage strip is comprised between 6 and 8 mm. Most preferably, the average equivalent diameter is 7 mm.

The passage strip possibly comprises perforations in the passage strip with a mutual intermediate distance comprised between 2 and 10 mm. This intermediate distance, whether or not in combination with the said average, equivalent diameter of the perforations, allows an optimal liquid drainage and/or buffering per connected surface unit of the awning. The drainage and buffering capacity is herein provided for in most weather conditions. Moreover, with an intermediate distance within said range, the integrity and rigidity of the pass strip is guaranteed. Smaller intermediate distances increase the risk of forming deformations, elongations, tears and/or additional, undesirable holes in the passage strip that prevent proper operation. Preferably, the intermediate distance is comprised between 4 and 6 mm. Most preferably, the intermediate distance is 5 mm.

According to an embodiment, the awning comprises a woven structure. The woven structure guarantees a good tensile strength and rigidity of the awning, which is of great importance specifically for the passage strip. The average, equivalent diameter of the perforations present in the passage strip is ideally constant at all times. This guarantees an optimal water drainage in the most extreme conditions and also ensures that the patio cover has a long service life. Preferably, the woven structure comprises polyester, polyvinyl chloride-polyester copolymer, polyacrylic, or combinations thereof. These materials have good liquid-tight and/or liquid repellent properties and are therefore ideally suited for use in the present patio cover.

The patio cover, and in particular the awning, according to the preceding embodiments has an exceptionally good break and tear strength. The break strength is quantified according to EN ISO 1421 and is divided into two values, namely a warp break strength and a weft break strength. The awning according to the present invention has an average warp break strength and an average weft break strength both of which are comprised between 180 and 260 daN/5 cm. Preferably, the break strengths are comprised between 200 and 240 daN/5 cm. Most preferably, the break strengths are 220 daN/5 cm. The tear strength is quantified according to DIN 53.363 and also falls into two values, namely the warp tear strength and the weft tear strength. The warp tear strength is comprised between 20 and 30 daN, preferably between 22 and 28 daN. Most preferably, the warp tear strength is 25 daN. The weft tear strength is comprised between 15 and 25 daN, more preferably between 17 and 23 daN. Most preferably, the weft tear strength is 20 daN.

According to an embodiment, the awning is provided with a coating comprising polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The coating contributes to the liquid-repellent properties of the awning, which are required in the context of the present object of the invention. PVC prevents water seepage on the awning and guarantees good fluid flow. Moreover, the applied coating ensures a further strengthening of the awning and its woven structure. The awning according to the preceding embodiments also has a low flammability, more specifically the awning M2 is classified according to the NFP 92-507 standard.

Preferably, the woven structure comprises polyester provided with a polyvinyl chloride coating. The combination in question is an excellent choice in order to achieve an optimum balance between good liquid run-off, limited water permeability, good break and tear strength, low flammability and a long service life.

An embodiment comprises the awning with a specific mass comprised between 300 and 1500 g/m². A cloth and/or textile with a specific mass within this range is light enough to be Tollable and/or tensionable by means as described in previous embodiments. At the same time, the cloth and/or textile is sufficiently thick, so that sound sun protection is obtained. In addition, a cloth and/or textile with a specific mass within this range offers sufficient resistance to moderate to strong wind and/or squalls. Preferably, the awning has a specific mass comprised between 300 and 750 g/m², more preferably between 300 and 650 g/m².

According to an embodiment, the liquid is led away from the drainage gutter via the frame, comprising the lateral sides and one or more support posts. Possibly, drainage takes place to local rainwater drainage and/or mixed sewage systems in the public and/or private domain. It is possible that drainage will be realized via discharge to unpaved surfaces, such as an unpaved patio or lawn, where sufficient infiltration into the soil is possible. The drainage of rainwater and/or the connection of the present patio cover must always take place in accordance with the applicable guidelines. Drainage through the lateral sides and the support posts of the frame has the advantage that water drainage is possible in an elegant and unobtrusive manner. Possibly, the water drainage is realised internally, through the use of hollow frames and/or posts, with or without specific drain pipes.

The awning comprises an open end, which open end is coupled to a rail. This rail is slidable transversely to the lateral sides of the frame. The awning is easy to position using the rail and can also be easily tensioned. Preferably, the rail is bearing-mounted on the lateral sides of the frame. Bearings are an inexpensive and efficient method of realising sliding of the rail along the lateral sides. Moreover, a long service life is guaranteed through a bearing construction. According to an embodiment of the patio cover, the rolling in and/or rolling out of the awning from the roll-out housing is motorised by means of the provision of one or more motors. Motorisation simplifies the use of the patio cover and also allows the integration of the present patio cover into a home automation system. Possibly, the patio cover is controlled by means of a home automation system comprising one or more weather sensors and/or weather stations. Another possibility comprises the manual control of the motorised drive by operating one or more switches. Possibly, a manual control and a home automation system are combined to control the patio cover.

According to an embodiment, a second roll-out housing, comprising a second roller, is coupled on the front side, wherein a second awning can be rolled in and/or rolled out relative to said second roll-out housing in a discharge direction (BB') parallel to the lateral sides of the frame.

In a further embodiment, the second awning comprises a second passage strip suitable for the passage of a liquid, and wherein the frame comprises a second drainage gutter, the second passage strip and the second drainage gutter being oriented transversely to the discharge direction (BB')·

In a still further embodiment, the second drainage gutter is a drainage gutter as described in this document.

In what follows, the invention is described by way of non-limiting figures illustrating the invention, and which are not intended to and should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Fig. 1 shows the perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the patio cover according to the present invention in a rolled-out state. The patio cover comprises an awning 1 and a frame 2. In the first place, the patio cover provides sun protection. In the second place, through the presence of a passage strip 11 in the awning 1, the discharge of a liquid flow, such as rainwater, is also provided. The frame 2 comprises a front side 4, a rear side 5 and two lateral sides 6,6', wherein the awning 1 is slidable with respect to the lateral sides 6,6' of the frame 2. The liquid flow is guided through the passage strip 11 into a drainage gutter 3, which drainage gutter is coupled with the awning 1 on either side of the passage strip 11. The liquid flow is discharged via the lateral sides 6,6' and the support posts 7, whether or not via an internal provision.

Fig. 2a shows a front view of the drainage gutter 3 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. From this figure the natural water pocket formation of the awning 1 between the two lateral sides 6 and 6 of the frame becomes clear. At the bottom of the awning 1, the drainage gutter 3 is coupled with the awning 1. The drainage gutter 3 has a variable depth, which increases from the centre Di to the ends Dii, the variable depth being substantially concave. This concave course is characterised by the slope angle a. Below the relevant slope angle a, the specific design of the drainage gutter 3 partially compensates for the natural water pocket formation of the awning 1. Drainage takes place mainly on either side of the drainage gutter 3 at the level of the lateral sides 6 and 6'.

Figure 2b shows the side view of the drainage gutter 3 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The passage strip 11 is shown, which is oriented transversely to the discharge direction BB' of the awning 1. The passage strip 11 is coupled to the awning 1 by means of two weld seams 21. Beneath the awning 1 is the drainage gutter 3, which is also coupled via two weld seams 20 to the awning 1, wherein the weld seams 20 are located on opposite sides of the drainage gutter 3 and extend over a certain width from said sides, the drainage gutter 3 extending towards the roller 13 on these opposite sides. This orientation allows the unambiguous rolling up and rolling out of the awning 1 on the roll-out device.

Fig. 3a shows the perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the patio cover in rolled out state. The patio cover comprises an awning 1 and a frame 2, so the patio cover is suitable for screening off a surface A to be covered. In the first place, the patio cover provides sun protection at the level of the surface A. By means of the presence of a passage strip 11 in the awning 1, the drainage of a liquid flow, such as rainwater, is also possible. The frame 2 comprises a front side 4, a rear side 5 and two lateral sides 6,6', wherein the awning 1 is slidable with respect to the lateral sides 6,6' of the frame 2. Fig. 3a also shows diagrammatically the sagging as a result of water pocket formation 16 of the awning 1. Fig. 3b shows how the awning 1 is rolled in this sliding movement into and/or out of a roll-out housing 8, the roll out housing 8 being coupled to the front side 4 of the frame 2. The rolling in and/or out of the awning 1 takes place according to the discharge direction BB'. The liquid flow is guided through the passage strip 11 into a drainage gutter 3. The liquid flow is discharged via the lateral sides 6,6' and the support posts 7, whether or not via an internal provision. Fig. 3c shows the patio cover viewed from above, on which the frame 2, comprising the front and rear side 4,5 and the lateral side 6,6', are also visible, as well as the awning 1 provided with a passage strip 11.

Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b show respectively the perspective view and the side view of a preferred embodiment of the patio cover according to the present invention in a rolled in state. The frame 2 is visible in the figures, comprising the front and rear sides 4,5 and the lateral sides 6,6'. The frame 2 is provided with support posts 7, as a result of which the patio cover can easily be placed over the surface A to be protected. In the rolled-in state, the awning is located in the roll-out housing 8, and the drainage gutter 3 is located at the level of the front side 4, which gives an attractive and minimalist effect to the patio cover. The roller 13 is visible in the unrolling housing 8 around which roller 13 the awning is rolled.

Fig. 5 shows a detailed side view of the flaps 12,12' and the drainage gutter 3 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The flaps 12,12' are directed somewhat inwards and coupled to the awning at the level of the passage strip 11. The flaps 12, 12' hang partially in the drainage gutter 3, so that the run-off of rainwater takes place optimally, also in extreme weather conditions such as heavy rain and/or wind. When the awning is rolled in and/or out, the drainage gutter 3 is at all times synchronously shifted along underneath the passage strip 11.

Fig. 6 shows a detailed top view of the passage strip 11 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The passage strip 11 is provided with a plurality of perforations 15 with an average, equivalent diameter d and a mutual intermediate distance I.

Fig. 7 shows a detailed, open side view of the roll-out housing 8 at the front 4 of the frame according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The awning 1 is rolled up around the roller 13. The figure shows how the awning 1 comprises an open end 18 and a rail 19. The rail is provided with a tensioning element, whereby the awning 1 is tensioned in the rolled-out state and sagging is minimised. List of components indicated in Figures la to 7:

1 awning

2 frame

3 drainage gutter

4 front side

5 rear side

6,6' lateral sides

7 support posts

8 roll-out housing

11 passage strip

12,12' flaps

13 roller

15 perforations

16 sagging due to water pocket formation

17 coating

18 open end

19 rail

20 joint / welded joint drainage gutter

21 joint / welded joint passage strip

A surface to be protected

BB' discharge direction

d equivalent diameter of the perforations

I mutual intermediate distance between the perforations

Di depth at the level of the centre of the drainage gutter

Dii depth at the level of the ends of the drainage gutter

Claims

1. Weather-resistant patio cover comprising an awning (1), a frame (2) and a drainage gutter (3), suitable for spanning a surface to be protected (A), which frame comprises a front side (4), a rear side (5) and two lateral sides (6,6'), on which rear side (5) a roll-out housing (8), comprising a roller (13), is coupled, wherein the awning (1) can be rolled in and/or rolled out with respect to said roll-out housing (8) in a discharge direction (BB') parallel to the lateral sides (6,6') of the frame (2), wherein this awning (1) further comprises a passage strip (11) suitable for the passage of a liquid, and wherein the passage strip (11) and the drainage gutter (3) are oriented transversely to the discharge direction (BB'), characterised in that the drainage gutter (3) in its longitudinal direction, transverse to the discharge direction (BB'), has a variable depth (Di,Dii).

2. Patio cover according to claim 1, characterised in that the drainage gutter (3) is slidable in the discharge direction (BB') of the awning (1).

3. Patio cover according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the drainage gutter (3) is coupled, preferably welded, to the awning at the level of two welded joints (20) transversely of the discharge direction (BB') and on either side of the passage strip (11).

4. Patio cover according to claim 3, characterised in that the depth (Di) at the level of a central part along the longitudinal direction, preferably substantially a central point along the longitudinal direction, of the drainage gutter (3), is smaller than the depth (Dii) at the level of the ends of the drainage gutter in its longitudinal direction.

5. Patio cover according to claim 4, characterised in that the depth of the drainage gutter shows a substantially concave course along the longitudinal direction, preferably wherein the course along the longitudinal direction is strictly decreasing from the central part along the longitudinal direction towards the ends of the drainage gutter.

6. Patio cover according to claim 5, characterised in that the substantially concave course along the longitudinal direction of the drainage gutter has an angle of inclination comprised between 5° and 45°.

7. Patio cover according to any of the preceding claims 2-6, characterised in that the welded joints (20) are located on opposite sides of the drainage gutter (3) and extend over a certain width, preferably from said sides, the drainage gutter extending on both said opposite sides to the roller (13).

8. Patio cover according to any of the preceding claims 1-7, characterised in that the drainage gutter (3) comprises a textile selected from the group of polyester, polyvinyl chloride-polyester copolymer, polyacrylic, or combinations thereof.

9. Patio cover according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the drainage gutter (3), preferably bearing-mounted, is coupled to the frame (2).

10. Patio cover according to claim 9, characterised in that the awning (1) on its underside (C) comprises one or more flaps (12,12'), which flaps (12,12') are coupled on either side of the passage strip (11) and transversely to the discharge direction (BB'), preferably welded.

11. Patio cover according to claim 10, characterised in that the flaps (12,12') are flexibly, preferably facing each other, coupled to the awning (1).

12. Patio cover according to any of the preceding claims 1-11, wherein the awning (1) comprises an open end (18), said open end (18) being coupled to a rail (19), which rail is slidable, preferably bearing-mounted, transversely to the lateral sides (6,6') of the frame (2).

13. Patio cover according to any of the preceding claims 1-12, characterised in that the awning (1) can be tensioned in the discharge direction (BB').

14. Patio cover according to claim 13, characterised in that the awning (1) is tensioned by means of a tensioning element (14).

15. Patio cover according to claim 14, characterised in that the tensioning element (14) is located at the level of the roller (13) and/or rail (19), preferably at the level of the rail.

16. Patio cover according to any of the preceding claims 1-15, characterised in that the passage strip (11) comprises perforations (15) with an average, equivalent diameter (d) which is comprised between 5 and 10 mm, preferably between 6 and 8 mm.

17. Patio cover according to any of the preceding claims 1-16, characterised in that the passage strip (11) comprises perforations (15) with a mutual intermediate distance (I) comprised between 2 and 10 mm, preferably between 4 and 6 mm.

18. Patio cover according to any of the preceding claims 1-17, characterised in that the awning (1) comprises a woven structure (16), the woven structure comprising polyester, polyvinyl chloride-polyester copolymer, polyacrylic, or combinations thereof.

19. Patio cover according to any of the preceding claims 1-18, characterised in that the awning (1) is provided with a coating (17) comprising polyvinyl chloride.

20. Patio cover according to claim 18 or 19, characterised in that the woven structure (16) comprises polyester, provided with a polyvinyl chloride coating (17).

21. Patio cover according to any of the preceding claims 1-20, characterised in that the awning (1) has a specific mass comprised between 300 and 1500 g/m², preferably between 300 and 750 g/m², more preferably between 300 and 650 g/m².

22. Patio cover according to any of the preceding claims 1-21, characterised in that the frame (2) comprises one or more support posts (7), wherein the liquid can be discharged from the drainage gutter (3) via the lateral sides (6,6') and the support posts of this frame.

23. Patio cover according to any of the preceding claims 1-22, characterised in that the rolling in and/or out of the awning (1) from the roll-out housing (8) is motorised by means of the provision of one or more motors.

24. Patio cover according to any of the preceding claims 1-23, characterised in that a second roll-out housing (8), comprising a second roller (13), is coupled to the front side (4), wherein a second awning (1) can be rolled in and/or out with respect to said second rolling-out housing (8) in a discharge direction (BB') parallel to the lateral sides (6,6') of the frame (2).

25. Patio cover according to the preceding claim 24, wherein the second awning (1) comprises a second passage strip (11) suitable for the passage of a liquid, and wherein the frame comprises a second drainage gutter (3), the second passage strip (11) and the second drainage gutter (3) being oriented transversely to the discharge direction (BB').

26. Patio cover according to the preceding claim 25, wherein the second drainage gutter is a drainage gutter of a patio cover according to any of claims 1 to 9