WO2020240605A1

WO2020240605A1 - Mobile covering module and covering apparatus comprising said module

Info

Publication number: WO2020240605A1
Application number: PCT/IT2020/050136
Authority: WO
Inventors: Loris Mindotti
Original assignee: Pratic F.Lli Orioli S.P.A.
Priority date: 2019-05-27
Filing date: 2020-05-27
Publication date: 2020-12-03

Abstract

Mobile covering module comprising a transverse element (11), to cover or to support covering, mobile in a longitudinal direction (Z), movement means (16) to move said transverse element (11), one or more electric user devices (12) provided on the transverse element (11) and an electric power assembly (13) to electrically power the one or more electric user devices (12).

Description

“MOBILE COVERING MODULE AND COVERING APPARATUS

COMPRISING SAID MODULE”

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention concerns a mobile covering module, in particular provided with an electric power supply to power one or more user devices provided in said module or associated with it. For example, the module can receive electric energy to power one or more lighting sources - spotlights, LEDs, lamps - or to power a sound or video diffusion system, or, again, a ventilation system or a heating system, and in general any system that requires electric energy to operate.

The present invention also concerns a covering apparatus provided with a plurality of the mobile covering modules as above. The covering apparatus, in some embodiments, can preferably be, but not only, a sunscreen of the adjustable type, also large sized, in the order of several meters for each side, in which case the covering modules can have transverse covering elements mobile between an operating or covering position, in which they are parallel to a covering plane, and an inactive or open position, in which they are inclined with respect to the covering plane, and vice versa. In some cases, the covering apparatus, according to other embodiments, can comprise a pitched awning in which the covering modules comprise transverse elements to support and connect a flexible covering canvas and are mobile with respect to each other, advancing and retreating between an extended operating position, so as to spread the covering canvas, and an inactive backward position, so as to fold the covering canvas into a bundle in correspondence with one side of the covering apparatus.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Various types of covering apparatuses are known, intended for use in external applications, with the function of protecting a zone below, selectively and even only temporarily, both from the sun’s rays and from atmospheric agents, such as rain, snow, or hail, and also from other objects that can fall from above.

These covering apparatuses, in some known solutions, comprise covering modules, mobile forward and backward, as well as possibly rotatable around their axis of rotation. For example, the covering apparatuses can be adjustable sunscreens, which use oblong transverse covering elements mobile between an operating or covering position, in which they are parallel to a covering plane, and an inactive or open position, in which they are inclined with respect to the covering plane, and vice versa. Covering apparatuses are also known which are provided with pitched awnings in which oblong transverse support elements, also called“ribs”, or“section dividers”, support and connect a flexible covering canvas and are mobile between an extended operating position, drawing the canvas with it in order to spread it out completely, being parallel to a covering plane, and an inactive backward position, in which the canvas is folded in a bund le toward one side of the apparatus, leaving the zone below uncovered.

It is also known that some covering apparatuses can be equipped with various types of devices and which perform various functions, which need to be powered electrically, for example, an electric power supply for lighting devices associated with the transverse elements, or an electric power supply for audio diffusion devices or other.

This requirement, in the case of covering apparatuses equipped with mobile transverse elements of the type discussed above, can generate some technical problems.

In fact, during the movement of the transverse covering or support elements, between the operating position and the inactive position, the distance between an electric source or supply and the transverse elements can vary, as well as, in some cases, the reciprocal distance between the transverse elements themselves with respect to the direction of movement, that is, the pitch between the transverse elements.

This therefore makes it difficult to reach, or even prevents reaching, the mobile transverse elements easily, safely and reliably with the electric power supply. This difficulty can be increased by the need for these covering apparatuses (which are typically intended for use in an external environment subjected to atmospheric agents, and therefore to the inevitable deposit of dirt, debris or other) to meet safety requirements, in particular in electrical terms, and functioning reliability. Moreover, given that the requirements from the end users of said covering apparatuses often consist in having valuable aesthetic finishes, simplicity of design, but also comfort and ease of use, it is necessary to look for solutions that are functional, reliable, but also aesthetically appreciable, and that are preferably concealed from view and therefore do not represent a negative aesthetic impact.

These requirements discourage, for example, the use of long electric cables which, in addition to being cumbersome and unsightly, would risk causing interruptions in the movement of the transverse covering or support elements, as well as being sheared by the moving members of the covering apparatus. In fact, the spaces available for the passage of the cables are very limited and are often close to the longitudinal sliding guides of the transverse elements.

It can also happen that the electric cables are subjected to an excessive extension during the movement of the transverse elements, which can entail a mechanical stress on the electric cables, as well as considerable work fatigue, for which the electric cables are neither designed nor suitable. These stresses can lead to the fraying of the external sheath of the electric cable or, in the worst cases, to its complete breakage, so that the devices supplied by the electric power supply are consequently switched off.

Some known solutions provide to use electrical connectors with sliding contact positioned, for example, in correspondence with the longitudinal sliding guides of the transverse elements. However, the electrical connectors with sliding contact do not guarantee an adequate degree of electrical safety, especially in outdoor use but also, for example, in the event that the user inadvertently comes into contact with one or more of the electrical connectors, although they can typically be powered at low voltage. Furthermore, such solutions are often not reliable, for example in the event that dust or dirt prevents the correct transmission of the power supply.

In the case of covering apparatuses provided with pitched awnings, often the problem of conveying the electric power supply to the one or more transverse elements is solved by using a cable connected at the upper part to the transverse elements and to the canvas in the direction of movement of the elements.

During the movement from the operating position to the inactive position and vice versa, the cable is positioned with loops folded in a bundle between the folds of the canvas, and is therefore particularly unsightly. Moreover, when the cable is packed together with the canvas in the inactive position, the bulk of the closed covering is quite significant. Furthermore, the cable can deteriorate over time, since it is subjected to wear and compression every time it is packed between the folds of the covering. Document CN-A- 107700765 describes an example of a covering apparatus of this type, in which the electric power supply cable is disposed at the bottom on the covering itself, positioning itself with loops folded in a bundle between the folds of the covering itself, with all the disadvantages as described above.

There is therefore a need to perfect a mobile covering module, and a covering apparatus comprising said module, which can overcome at least one of the disadvantages of the state of the art.

In particular, one purpose of the present invention is to provide a mobile covering module that allows to electrically power one or more user devices associated with the transverse element in a simple and functional way.

Another purpose of the present invention is to provide a mobile covering module equipped with an electric power supply that allows easy movement of the transverse element, for example in a direction of advance, without the possibility of any interruption in movement.

Another purpose of the present invention is to provide a mobile covering module provided with an electric power supply that allows easy maintenance and/or replacement of the module in the event of malfunctions.

Another purpose of the present invention is to provide a covering apparatus provided with one or more of the mobile covering modules as above.

The Applicant has devised, tested and embodied the present invention to overcome the shortcomings of the state of the art and to obtain these and other purposes and advantages.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is set forth and characterized in the independent claims. The dependent claims describe other characteristics of the present invention or variants to the main inventive idea.

In accordance with the above purposes, a mobile covering module comprises a transverse element, to cover or to support covering, mobile advancing/retreating in a longitudinal direction between a forward position and a backward position, sweeping a covering area that defines a covering plane on which the longitudinal direction as above lies.

The module comprises movement means configured to move the transverse element in the longitudinal direction.

The module comprises one or more electric user devices provided on the transverse element.

The module comprises an electric power assembly comprising at least one electric conduction mean, connected on one side to an electric power source and on another side integrally connected to the transverse element in order to electrically power the one or more electric user devices.

The electric conduction mean is configured extendable/retractable in conjunction with a forward/backward movement of the transverse element, assuming respectively an extended condition coordinated with the forward position of the transverse element, and a retracted condition coordinated with the backward position of the transverse element. The electric conduction mean remains lying, both in the extended condition, and also in the retracted condition, at least on the covering plan or on a plane parallel to the covering plane.

In possible embodiments, the electric conduction mean as above is extendable linearly in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction and has a longitudinal development, in the direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction, that is linear overall, both in the extended condition, and also in the retracted condition.

In possible embodiments, the electric conduction mean as above is extendable in a rectilinear manner.

In possible embodiments, the electric conduction mean as above is disposed outside the transverse element as above.

In accordance with some embodiments, a covering apparatus is provided comprising one or more of the covering modules as above, and a support frame provided with sliding guides opposite and parallel to each other, disposed on the sides of the transverse elements of the modules to allow their forward/backward sliding, wherein the at least one electric conduction mean is disposed along a respective one of the sliding guides.

ILLUSTRATION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other aspects, characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of some embodiments, given as a non-restrictive example with reference to the attached drawings wherein:

- fig. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a mobile covering module with electric power supply in accordance with embodiments;

- fig. 2 is a schematic perspective view of a mobile covering module with electric power supply in accordance with embodiments;

- fig. 3 is a perspective view of a covering apparatus comprising one or more of the modules in accordance with the present invention and in which the transverse elements are packed toward a transverse element of the support structure of the apparatus;

- fig. 4 is a top plan view of fig. 3;

- fig. 5 is a perspective view of a covering apparatus comprising one or more of the modules in accordance with the present invention and in which the transverse elements are coplanar to a covering plane and protect the zone below;

- fig. 6 is a top plan view of fig. 5;

- fig. 7 is a perspective view of a detail of fig. 3;

- fig. 8 is a lateral elevation view of fig. 7;

- fig. 9 is a top plan view of fig. 7;

- fig. 10 is a schematic section of a detail of fig. 7;

- fig. 11 is an enlarged detail of a detail of fig. 9;

- fig. 12 is a schematic section of a detail of fig. 7 in which a retaining device in accordance with embodiments is visible;

- fig. 13 is an enlarged detail of a detail of fig. 8 in which a retaining device in accordance with embodiments is visible;

- fig. 14 is an enlarged detail of fig. 9 in which a retaining device in accordance with embodiments is visible;

- figs. 15 and 16 are schematic sections of part of a covering apparatus according to other embodiments described here;

- fig. 17 is a top plan view of part of a covering apparatus according to other embodiments described here.

To facilitate comprehension, the same reference numbers have been used, where possible, to identify identical common elements in the drawings. It is understood that elements and characteristics of one embodiment can conveniently be incorporated into other embodiments without further clarifications.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

We will now refer in detail to the various embodiments of the invention, of which one or more examples are shown in the attached drawings. Each example is supplied by way of illustration of the invention and shall not be understood as a limitation thereof. For example, the characteristics shown or described insomuch as they are part of one embodiment can be adopted on, or in association with, other embodiments to produce another embodiment. It is understood that the present invention shall include all such modifications and variants.

Before describing the embodiments, we must also clarify that the present description is not limited in its application to details of the construction and disposition of the components as described in the following description using the attached drawings. The present description can provide other embodiments and can be obtained or executed in various other ways. We must also clarify that the phraseology and terminology used here is for the purposes of description only, and cannot be considered as limitative.

Embodiments described using the attached drawings concern a mobile covering module, indicated as a whole with reference number 10 in the attached drawings.

In accordance with some embodiments, schematically shown in figs. 1-2, the module 10 comprises a transverse element 11, to cover or to support covering, mobile advancing/retreating in a longitudinal direction, or axis, Z between a forward position and a backward position. In this way, the transverse element 11 can sweep a covering area defining a covering plane P on which said longitudinal direction Z lies. Favorably, such transverse element 11 is mobile with respect to a support frame 110 lying on a plane coincident or parallel to the covering plane P.

The module 10 comprises movement means 16 configured to move the transverse element 11 in the longitudinal direction Z.

The module 10 comprises one or more electric user devices 12 provided on the transverse element 11.

The module 10 is provided with an electric power assembly 13 comprising at least one electric conduction mean 14, connected on one side to an electric power source 15 and on another side integrally connected to the transverse element 11 , in order to electrically power the one or more electric user devices 12 as above. The electric conduction mean 14 is configured extendable/retractable in conjunction with a forward/backward movement of the transverse element 11 , assuming respectively an extended condition coordinated with the forward position of the transverse element 1 1, and a retracted condition coordinated with the backward position of the transverse element 11. The electric conduction mean 14 remains lying, both in the extended condition, and also in the retracted condition, at least on the covering plane P or on a plane parallel to the covering plane P.

The transverse element 11 favorably develops in a direction, or axis, T transverse to, in particular orthogonal to, the longitudinal direction Z, that is, the projection of which on the covering plane P on which the longitudinal direction Z lies is transverse to, in particular orthogonal to, the longitudinal direction Z as above.

Favorably, considering the transverse element 11 in two successive positions in the longitudinal direction Z, the covering plane P, swept by the transverse element 11, can be defined as a plane coincident or parallel to a plane on which the transverse direction T of the transverse element 11 lies in the two successive positions of the transverse element 11 as it moves in the longitudinal direction Z.

In particular, the electric conduction mean 14 is extendable/retractable along an axis of longitudinal development Y. Advantageously, the electric conduction mean 14, both in the extended condition and also in the retracted condition, remains substantially parallel to the axis of longitudinal development Y. Favorably, in possible embodiments, this axis of longitudinal development Y can be parallel to the longitudinal direction Z. In possible implementations, the axis of longitudinal development Y is, in particular, coplanar with the covering plane P.

In particular, the electric conduction mean 14 also remains lying, both in said extended condition and also in said retracted condition, on a lying plane PI orthogonal to the covering plane P and parallel to the longitudinal direction Z.

In particular, in some embodiments the electric conduction mean 14 is disposed outside the transverse element 11. Even more particularly, the electric conduction mean 14 can be disposed outside the side of the corresponding transverse element 11. This configuration in which the electric conduction mean 14 is disposed outside the transverse element 11 is particularly advantageous, because, in this way, the electric conduction mean 14 is not affected by the variation of the spatial disposition of the transverse element 11 and, not being mounted on the transverse element 11, it is not folded into loops between the same transverse elements 11 and therefore it is subject to less wear and deformations due to compression.

In accordance with the embodiment shown in fig. 1 , the transverse element 11 can be a transverse element 1 1 to cover which is aesthetically similar to a paddle, a blade or a flap. Although in the example described in fig. 1 the transverse element 11 is shown by way of example as an oblong parallelepiped, that is, with the length much larger than the width and height, or thickness, such transverse element 11 can have very varied shapes.

In accordance with the embodiment shown in fig. 2, the transverse element 11 can be a transverse element 11 to support covering, called section divider profile or rib. The transverse element 11 has a conformation that is shaped in order to define a convexity of its profile, for example an arched conformation or a configuration with linear segments angled with respect to each other, or a conformation that has a combination of linear and arched segments, so that when cooperating with a canvas 119, only partly shown in fig. 2 for descriptive purposes, it can facilitate the lateral evacuation of atmospheric precipitation by gravity.

In accordance with some embodiments, the movement means 16 comprise sliding elements 17, associated with opposite ends 20 of the transverse element 11 , and configured to facilitate the movement of the transverse element 11 in the longitudinal direction Z between the forward position and the backward position. The movement means 16 also comprise an actuation device 18 associated with the sliding elements 17 to allow them to be driven.

In accordance with possible solutions, the sliding elements 17 can be chosen in a group comprising casters, sliding blocks, bearings, or other.

In accordance with some embodiments, the electric conduction mean 14 is extendable linearly, in particular in a rectilinear manner, in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction Z, and it has a longitudinal development, in the direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction Z, overall linear, both in the extended condition and also in the retracted condition.

In accordance with some embodiments, shown in fig. 1, the electric conduction mean 14 is configured to pass from a retracted condition, in which it has substantially a minimum length LI in the longitudinal direction Z, to an extended condition, in which it has a length L2 in the longitudinal direction Z greater than the length LI in the longitudinal direction Z when it is in the retracted condition. For example, the difference between the length LI and the length L2 is correlated to, or corresponds to, the advance pitch of the transverse element 1 1 between two successive positions during the movement between the backward position and the forward position and vice versa.

In accordance with the schematic example of figs. 1-2, the electric conduction mean 14 is depicted as a parallelepiped configured to extend, dashed line, when the transverse element 11 moves, forward, in the longitudinal direction Z and to retract when the transverse element 11 moves, backward, in the longitudinal direction Z.

The electric conduction mean 14 comprises a first end 21, connected to the electric power source 15, and a second end 22, opposite the first end 21, integrally connected to the transverse element 11. When the transverse element 11 moves with it and passes from the backward position to the forward position and vice versa, the electric conduction mean 14 passes from the retracted condition to the extended condition, and the first end 21 and the second end 22 are substantially aligned in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction Z.

In the examples shown in figs. 1-2, the second end 22 is integral with the transverse element 11, while the first end 21 can be integral with a fixed structure or integral with a mobile structure, for example, when two or more modules 10 are configured to cooperate together, as will be described in more detail below.

In accordance with some embodiments, the bulk of the electric conduction mean 14 with respect to a plane orthogonal to the covering plane P and to the longitudinal direction Z remains substantially unchanged during the passage between the retracted condition and the extended condition and vice versa. In accordance with some embodiments, the electric conduction mean 14 comprises a main body which is flexible and selectively extendable/retractable, or unwindable/windable, or even formed by articulated elements. Such main body is associated with electric power supply elements, such as in particular electrical conduction wires.

In accordance with some embodiments, shown in figs. 7-11, the electric conduction mean 14 is an electric cable with spiral-like development around its own axis of longitudinal development Y. In particular, in the non-extended condition as above, the electric conduction mean 14 has a bulk in the transverse direction T substantially equal to the circumference of the spiral, fig. 10. In the extended condition as above, the electric conduction mean 14 has a smaller bulk in the transverse direction. Such transverse bulk is minimal if the extended condition is the condition of maximum extension.

In accordance with other possible solutions, shown for example in fig. 15, the electric conduction mean 14 can be, or comprise, an electric power cable 25, extendable along an axis of longitudinal development Y, and which can be wound onto a reel, or roller, 26 provided with a winding mechanism 27 to selectively wind the cable 25. The winding mechanism 27 can include an automatic, or semi-automatic, winding member, such as a spring, a kinematic mechanism, an electric motor or other. In this way, the cable 25 can freely follow the forward movement of one or more transverse elements 11 and be recovered in a coordinated manner during the corresponding backward movement, always remaining lying on, or parallel to, the covering plane P.

In accordance with other possible solutions, shown for example in fig. 16, the electric conduction mean 14 can be, or comprise, an electric power cable 35, disposed along an axis of longitudinal development Y, incorporated inside a casing, or sheath, 36 which can be extended in a bellows-like manner, for example a flexible corrugated casing, or sheath, or suchlike. Also in this solution, the electric conduction mean 14 can therefore follow the movement of the one or more transverse elements 11, guaranteeing the electric power supply thereof, always remaining lying on, or parallel to, the covering plane P.

Also, according to other possible solutions, shown for example in fig. 17, the electric conduction mean 14 can be, or comprise, an electric power cable 45 and a mechanical pantograph 46, disposed lying on, or parallel to, the covering plane P between the structure of the support frame and the one or more transverse elements 1 1 , and conformed to support the cable 45 and guide it, along an axis of longitudinal development Y, in a manner coordinated with the forward and backward movement of the one or more transverse elements 1 1 in the longitudinal direction Z, always remaining lying on, or parallel to, the covering plane P.

In accordance with some embodiments, the module 10 can comprise a retaining device 123 provided with at least one cord 124 connected on one side to the second end 22 of the electric conduction mean 14, and on the other side integrally connected to the transverse element 11 , as will be described in more detail below.

When the transverse element 11 passes from the backward position to the forward position and vice versa, and the electric conduction mean 14 passes from the retracted condition to the extended condition and vice versa, the retaining device 123 allows the electric conduction mean 14 to be drawn, preventing the mechanical tensioning at least of a segment of the electric conduction mean 14 in correspondence with the transverse element 11.

In accordance with possible embodiments, the retaining device 123 can be connected to the transverse element 11 in correspondence with the respective sliding element 17 disposed on the same side of the electric conduction mean 14.

In accordance with some embodiments, the module 10 can comprise a longitudinal guide device disposed parallel to the electric conduction mean 14 and configured to allow the electric conduction mean 14 to extend and retract in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction Z.

Some embodiments, shown in figs. 3-6, concern a covering apparatus 100 comprising one or more modules 10 and a support frame 1 10 provided with sliding guides 111 opposite and parallel to each other, disposed on the sides of the transverse elements 1 1 of the modules 10 to allow their forward/backward sliding. The at least one electric conduction mean 14 is disposed along a respective one of the sliding guides 1 11. Favorably, the plane on which the support frame 110 lies is a plane coincident or parallel to the covering plane P. The covering plane P can therefore be defined as a plane coincident or parallel to a plane on which the longitudinal direction Z, the transverse direction T and a point of such support frame 1 10 lie.

In accordance with some embodiments, the apparatus 100 comprises a guide support 1 13 positioned in correspondence with at least one of the sliding guides 1 1 1 , in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction Z, and along which the at least one electric conduction mean 14 is slidably confined, during the passage from the retracted condition to the extended condition, and vice versa.

In accordance with possible solutions, the guide support 1 13 is formed by an oblong profile that has a cross-section defining a housing seating 121 to contain the at least one electric conduction mean 14.

In accordance with some embodiments, a longitudinal guide device 1 14 is provided associated with the support frame 1 10, disposed parallel to the at least one electric conduction mean 14 and configured to allow the at least one electric conduction mean 14 to extend and retract in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction Z.

In accordance with possible embodiments, the guide device 1 14 can be stably attached to the support frame 1 10 and/or to the guide support 1 13. For example, if the electric conduction mean 14 is an electric cable with a spiral-shaped development, the guide device 114 can be a cable coaxial to the electric conduction means 14. The guide device 114 is stably connected with respect to its ends to the support structure 1 10 and/or to the guide support 1 13 by means of an anchoring bracket 1 15, figs. 7-9. If the guide device 1 14 is a cable, it is possible to install, at any point whatsoever of the cable, advantageously in correspondence with one of its ends, a device 1 16 for tensioning the cable. By appropriately adjusting the tension of the guide device 1 14, it is possible to define the trajectory of extension/retraction of the at least one electric conduction mean 14.

In accordance with some embodiments, the at least one electric conduction mean 14 is formed by electric conduction elements connected in series.

In accordance with some embodiments, the apparatus 100 is provided with a plurality of modules 10, each of which is connected by means of suitable electrical shunts to the respective transverse element 11.

In the example of fig. 4 and fig. 6, the apparatus 100 is provided with three modules 10a, 10b, 10c, of which a first module 10a is connected to an electric power source, not shown, by means of the first electric conduction mean 14a. The second module 10b is electrically connected to the first module 10a by means of the second electric conduction mean 14b, and the third module 10c is electrically connected to the second module 10b by means of the third electric conduction mean 14c.

In this way, it is possible to define a connection in series of the modules 10a, 10b, 10c. This advantageously allows an extension of the respective electric conduction means 14 that is proportional to the reciprocal distance between the modules 10 and, as regards the first module 10a, proportional to the distance from the support structure 110 or from the electric power source.

In particular, as shown by way of example in fig. 7, fig. 9, fig. 11 and figs. 12- 14, in the case of a configuration in series, a three-way connector 120 is positioned between the first electric conduction mean 14a and the second electric conduction mean 14b, which on one side achieves the electrical shunt toward the electric conduction means 14a, 14b, and on the other side defines the electrical connection with the respective transverse element 1 1. Such connector 120 therefore allows to power one or more electric user devices 12 disposed in the transverse element 11 of the module 10.

In particular, in order to power the electric user devices 12 as above, one end of the three-way connector 120 is configured to be inserted in a hole present in the transverse element 11 , directly or by means of a shunt cable 122 (fig. 10 and figs. 12-14). The hole as above allows access to an internal space of the transverse element 11 where the electrical circuits of the electric user devices 12 are positioned, fig. 7, fig. 10 and fig. 12.

Although the attached drawings show a three-way connector 120, it is evident that, for example, the electric conduction mean 14 disposed on the side of the electric power source 15 can be connected to the latter with a two-way connector 120, and also that the last electric conduction mean 14 can terminate with a two- way connector 120, possibly elbow.

In general, however, the number of outputs, or ways, of the connector 120 depends substantially on the number of electrical connections that have to be established. For this purpose, the connector 120 can be a two-way, possibly an elbow, a three, four or more way connector, according to requirements.

In accordance with some embodiments, shown in figs. 12-13, the retaining device 123 can be connected on one side to the three-way connector 120, directly or by means of an anchoring element 125, and on the other side to the transverse element 11 of the module 10, for example with respect to the sliding element 17 mobile on the sliding guide 1 1 1 on which the electric conduction mean 14 is disposed.

For this purpose, the at least one cord 124 can have, on the side opposite that of connection with the electric conduction mean 14, a loop knot 129 (figs. 12-13) which allows a substantially stable connection with the respective sliding element 17. In order to clamp the loop knot 129 into a substantially stable position it is possible to provide an anti-opening clamping element 130 slidingly associated with the cord 124.

In accordance with some embodiments, the anchoring element 125 can comprise a shaped seating 126 configured to house the connector 120, an eyelet to which the retaining device 123 can connect and a guide channel 128 (fig. 12) by means of which the anchoring element 125 can be slidingly associated with the longitudinal guide device 1 14.

The shaped seating 26 can have a shape suitable for the type of connector 120, in particular on the basis of the number of ways.

In accordance with possible solutions, the electric user devices 12 can be chosen in a group comprising lighting sources, heating elements - for melting ice and/or snow or for locally regulating the temperature in the zone below the apparatus 100 - cooling and/or ventilation and/or suction devices, sound diffusion devices or other.

In accordance with the embodiment shown in fig. 7, the electric user devices 12, of which only one is visible, are point light sources, for example LED, configured to illuminate the zone below the apparatus 100. However, we do not exclude that such light sources can have linear conformations that extend in a longitudinal and/or transverse direction with respect to the transverse element 11, as well as curvilinear conformations, or that define alphanumeric characters, writings, logos, drawings or other, also in combination between one transverse element 11 and an ad|jacent one. In accordance with possible solutions, the at least one electric conduction mean 14 is formed by electric conduction elements connected in parallel. In this case, each electric conduction mean 14 is directly and exclusively connected between the electric power source and the respective transverse element 11. This defines an elongation of the respective electric conduction means 14 proportional to the distance between the transverse element 11 of each module 10 and the support structure 110 or the electric power source.

In accordance with some embodiments, shown in figs. 3-6, the apparatus 100 comprises other transverse elements 112 installed, with respect to their opposite ends 117, on the sliding guides 1 11, being mobile advancing/retreating in the longitudinal direction Z between a forward position and a backward position. The transverse elements 11 and the other transverse elements 112 are mobile in rotation in a coordinated manner with the forward/backward movement between a covering position, in which they are coplanar with a covering plane and protect the zone below, and a resting position, in which they are inclined with respect to the covering plane P and/or packed toward a transverse element of the support frame 110.

According to other embodiments, the apparatus 100 comprises further transverse elements 1 12 installed, with respect to their opposite ends 1 17, on the sliding guides 111 being mobile advancing/retreating in the longitudinal direction Z between a forward position and a backward position. A canvas 119 is attached to the transverse elements 11 and to the other transverse elements 1 12 to define a pitched awning configured to assume, by means of the sliding of the transverse elements 11 and the other transverse elements 1 12 on the sliding guides 1 1 1, at least one open condition in which the canvas 119 is folded in layers, leaving the zone below the support frame 110 uncovered, and a closed condition in which the canvas 119 covers at least part of the zone below the support frame 110 defining the covering plane P.

In accordance with embodiments that refer by way of example to the apparatus 100 of figs. 3-6, the retaining device 123 comprises a first cord 124a and a second cord 124b (fig. 13) associated respectively with the transverse element 11 of the module 10 and with another contiguous transverse element 112, that is, which follows or precedes the transverse element 11. In accordance with some embodiments, the length of both the first cord 124a and also the second cord 124b is shorter than the shunt cable 122 which connects the three-way connector 120 with the transverse element 1 1.

According to a preferred embodiment, the first cord 124a is connected to the other transverse element 112 that follows the transverse element 11, and the second cord 124b is connected to the transverse element 1 1 of the module 10. In this case, the second cord 124b is shorter than the first cord 124a, however, both are shorter than the electrical shunt cable 122.

In this way, when the transverse elements 1 1, 1 12 move forward in the longitudinal direction Z, the first cord 124a tenses before the electrical shunt cable 122 which enters the transverse element 11. In this way, the drawing of the spirals, or other elements for deforming and extending the electric conduction mean 14, is actuated by the first cord 124a, leaving the electrical shunt cable 122 substantially loose and, therefore, free of mechanical tension.

In the same way, in the opposite condition of movement of the transverse elements 11, 112, that is, backward in the longitudinal direction Z, it is the second cord 124b which tenses before the electrical shunt cable 122, leaving, also in this operating condition, the electrical shunt cable 122 substantially free of mechanical tension.

It is clear that modifications and/or additions of parts may be made to the mobile covering module and to the covering apparatus comprising said module as described heretofore, without departing from the field and scope of the present invention.

It is also clear that, although the present invention has been described with reference to some specific examples, a person of skill in the art shall certainly be able to achieve many other equivalent forms of a mobile covering module and a covering apparatus comprising said module, having the characteristics as set forth in the claims and hence all coming within the field of protection defined thereby.

In the following claims, the sole purpose of the references in brackets is to facilitate reading: they must not be considered as restrictive factors with regard to the field of protection claimed in the specific claims.

Claims

1. Mobile covering module characterized in that said mobile covering module comprises:

- a transverse element (11), to cover or to support covering, mobile advancing/retreating in a longitudinal direction (Z) between a forward position and a backward position, sweeping a covering area that defines a covering plane (P) on which said longitudinal direction (Z) lies;

- movement means (16) configured to move said transverse element (11) in said longitudinal direction (Z);

- one or more electric user devices (12) provided on said transverse element (11);

- an electric power assembly (13) comprising at least one electric conduction mean (14), connected on one side to an electric power source (15) and on another side integrally connected to said transverse element (11) in order to electrically power said one or more electric user devices (12), said electric conduction mean (14) being configured extendable/retractable in conjunction with a forward/backward movement of said transverse element (11), assuming respectively an extended condition coordinated with the forward position of said transverse element (11), and a retracted condition coordinated with the backward position of said transverse element (11), said electric conduction mean (14) remaining lying, both in said extended condition, and also in said retracted condition, at least on said covering plane (P) or on a plane parallel to said covering plane (P).

2. Module as in claim 1, characterized in that said electric conduction mean (14) is extendable linearly in a direction substantially parallel to said longitudinal direction (Z) and has a longitudinal development, in said direction substantially parallel to said longitudinal direction (Z), that is linear overall, both in said extended condition, and also in said retracted condition.

3. Module as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that said electric conduction mean (14) in said retracted condition has a minimum length (LI) in the longitudinal direction (Z), whereas in said extended condition it has a length (L2) in the longitudinal direction (Z) greater than said length (LI) in the longitudinal direction (Z).

4. Module as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that said electric conduction mean (14) comprises a first end (21), connected to said electric power source (15), and a second end (22) opposite said first end (21), integrally connected to said transverse element (11), and in that when said transverse element (11) passes from said backward position to said forward position and vice versa, said electric conduction mean (14) passes from said retracted condition to said extended condition, and said first end (21) and said second end (22) are substantially aligned in a direction parallel to said longitudinal direction

(Z).

5. Module as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that said electric conduction mean (14) is an electric cable with a spiral-shaped development around its own axis of longitudinal development (Y).

6. Module as in any previous claim from 1 to 5, characterized in that said electric conduction mean (14) comprises an electric power cable (25), which can be extended and wound onto a reel, or roller, (26) provided with a winding mechanism (27) for selectively winding said cable (25).

7. Module as in any previous claim from 1 to 5, characterized in that said electric conduction mean (14) comprises an electric power cable (35) incorporated inside a casing, or sheath, (36) which can be extended in a bellows like mhnner.

8. Module as in any previous claim from 1 to 5, characterized in that said electric conduction mean (14) comprises an electric power cable (45) and a mechanical pantograph (46), disposed lying on, or parallel to, the covering plane (P) and conformed to support the cable (45) and guide it in a manner coordinated with the forward and backward movement of said transverse element (1 1).

9. Module as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that it comprises a retaining device (123) provided with at least one cord (124) connected on one side to said second end (22) of said electric conduction mean (14) and on the other side integrally connected to said transverse element (11), and in that when said transverse element (11) passes from said backward position to said forward position and vice versa, and said electric conduction mean (14) passes from said retracted condition to said extended condition and vice versa, said retaining device (123) allows said electric conduction mean (14) to be drawn, preventing at least one segment of said electric conduction mean (14) from tensioning in correspondence with said transverse element (11).

10. Module as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that said module (10) comprises a longitudinal guide device (114) disposed parallel to said electric conduction mean (14), and configured to allow said electric conduction mean (14) to extend and retract in a direction substantially parallel to said longitudinal direction (Z).

11. Module as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that the bulk of said electric conduction mean (14) with respect to a plane transverse to, preferably orthogonal to said covering plane (P) and to said longitudinal direction (Z), remains substantially unchanged during the passage from said retracted condition to said extended condition, and vice versa.

12. Module as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that said electric conduction mean (14) also remains lying, both in said extended condition, and also in said retracted condition, also on a lying plane (PI) orthogonal to said covering plane (P) and parallel to said longitudinal direction (Z).

13. Module as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that said electric conduction mean (14) is disposed outside said transverse element (11).

14. Module as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that said transverse element (11) develops in a direction, or axis, (T) transverse to, in particular orthogonal to, said longitudinal direction (Z), that is, the projection of which on the covering plane (P) on which the longitudinal direction (Z) lies is transverse to, in particular orthogonal to, said longitudinal direction (Z), wherein, considering said transverse element (11) in two successive positions in said longitudinal direction (Z), said covering plane (P) is defined as a plane coincident or parallel to a plane on which the transverse direction (T) of the transverse element (11) lies in said two successive positions of the transverse element (11) in said longitudinal direction (Z).

15. Covering apparatus (100) comprising one or more covering modules (10) as in any claim from 1 to 14, and a support frame (110) provided with sliding guides (111) opposite and parallel to each other, disposed on the sides of the transverse elements (11) of said modules (10) to allow their forward/backward sliding, wherein said at least one electric conduction mean (14) is disposed along a respective one of said sliding guides (1 11).

16. Apparatus as in claim 15, characterized in that said at least one electric conduction mean (14) is formed by electric conduction elements connected in series.

17. Apparatus as in claim 15 or 16, characterized in that a connector (120) is positioned between a first electric conduction mean (14a) and a second electric conduction mean (14b) which are connected in series, which connector (120) on one side achieves the electrical shunt toward said electric conduction means (14a, 14b), and on the other side defines the electrical connection with a respective transverse element (1 1), directly or through a shunt cable (122).

18. Apparatus as in claim 17, characterized in that said retaining device (123) is connected on one side to said connector (120), directly or by means of an anchoring element (125), and on the other side with said respective transverse element (11).

19. Apparatus as in claim 18, characterized in that said anchoring element (125) comprises a shaped seating (126) configured to house said connector (120), an eyelet with which said retaining device (123) is associated, and a guide channel (128) by means of which said anchoring element (125) is slidingly associated with said longitudinal guide device (114).

20. Apparatus as in any claim from 17 to 19, characterized in that said retaining device (123) comprises a first cord (124a) and a second cord (124b) associated respectively with said transverse element (11) and with another contiguous transverse element (112), that is, which follows or precedes said transversal element (1 1).

21. Apparatus as in claim 20, characterized in that the length of both said first cord (124a) and said second cord (124b) is a shorter than said shunt cable (122).

22. Apparatus as in claim 15, characterized in that said at least one electric conduction mean (14) is formed by electric conduction elements connected in parallel.

23. Apparatus as in any claim from 15 to 22, characterized in that it comprises a guide support (113) positioned in correspondence with at least one of said sliding guides (11 1), in a direction parallel to said longitudinal direction (Z), along which said at least one electric conduction mean (14) is slidably confined, during the passage from said retracted condition to said extended condition, and vice versa.

24. Apparatus as in claim 23, characterized in that said guide support (113) is formed by an oblong profile having a cross-section defining a housing seating (121) to contain said at least one electric conduction mean (14).

25. Apparatus as in any claim from 15 to 24, characterized in that it comprises other transverse elements (112) installed, with respect to their opposite ends (117), on said sliding guides (111), being mobile advancing/retreating in a longitudinal direction (Z) between a forward position and a backward position, said transverse elements (11) and said other transverse elements (112) being mobile in rotation in a coordinated manner with the backward/forward movement between a covering position, in which they are coplanar to said covering plane (P) and protect the zone below, and a resting position, in which they are inclined with respect to said covering plane (P) and/or packed toward a transverse element of said support frame (110).

26. Apparatus as in any claim from 15 to 24, characterized in that it comprises other transverse elements (112) installed, with respect to their opposite ends (117), on said sliding guides (111), being mobile advancing/retreating in said longitudinal direction (Z) between a forward position and a backward position, a canvas (119) being attached to said transverse elements (11) and to said other transverse elements (112) in order to define a pitched awning configured to assume, by sliding said transverse elements (11) and said other transverse elements (112) on said sliding guides (111), at least one open condition in which the canvas (119) is folded in layers leaving the zone below the support frame (110) uncovered, and a closed condition in which the canvas (119) covers at least part of the zone below the support frame (110) defining said covering plane (P).