Awning fixing structure, awning accessory and awning arrangement structure

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to awnings and components of awnings systems, such as crank operated awnings systems, in particular to awnings including stowed configurations for stowing accessory components, such as crank handles or tension levers, and to quick coupling mechanisms and release mechanisms for awnings for mounting awnings on a vehicle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to awning systems and components of awning systems, such as crank-operated awning systems, and more particularly to an awning including a storage configuration for storing accessory components such as a crank handle or a tension rod, and to a quick coupling and release mechanism for an awning for mounting the awning on a vehicle. Background Art

[0002] Awnings that can be mounted on recreational vehicles are known in the art. Such awnings need to meet the highest safety standards while also being user-friendly. Known awnings have the disadvantage of not being easily detachable from the vehicle, such that users often leave them mounted on the vehicle during daily use. In addition, the accessory components of the awning need to be stored, which often results in such accessory components being lost or at least taking up storage space in the vehicle. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present disclosure relates to improvements to awnings of the above type. Specifically, the present disclosure relates to improvements to awnings regarding the storage capacity of accessories. In addition, the present disclosure relates to improvements in securing an awning to a load-bearing member such as a vehicle.

[0004] It is an object of the present invention to provide an enhanced awning arrangement structure and / or an enhanced awning and / or enhanced components of an awning arrangement structure, such as awning accessories such as a crank or a tension rod and / or an awning bracket or a load-bearing structure or a fixing device.

[0005] This object is solved by the configurations, aspects as set forth in the claims and by the exemplary configurations, examples and embodiments as described herein. Advantageous further aspects result from the dependent claims and the following description.

[0006] An awning is disclosed. In some embodiments, the awning includes an elongate cover and a rotatable drum tube for winding and unwinding an awning fabric. The cover may be a housing or may be a bag, particularly a bag including a flexible covering material and optionally including a zip for allowing access to the drum tube. The drum tube may be disposed within the cover. The drum tube may be rotatably held within the cover. The awning may be configured to at least partially accommodate an accessory. The accessory may be a crank or a tension rod of the awning. The tension rod may be used between an awning rail and the cover or the housing to tension the awning fabric. When the accessory is not in use, the awning may be configured to at least partially receive the accessory on or within the cover for storage purposes.

[0007] In some embodiments, the awning further includes a receiving portion configured to at least partially receive an accessory therein. In some embodiments, the receiving portion is accessible from a longitudinal end side of the awning. When the awning is viewed from the front side, the longitudinal end side of the awning may be the right or left side of the mounted awning. When the awning is mounted on the side of a vehicle, the longitudinal end side of the awning may be the front end in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle or the rear end in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

[0008] The direction indication refers to, for example, the coordinate system of the load-carrying unit of a vehicle, which generally consists of three direction indications. These direction indications include the traveling direction or longitudinal direction, the lateral direction, and the height direction. The same direction indications are also used for other components, such as the awning, the awning support, and the load-carrying structure, to allow for a better understanding of those components, as they are all designed to be mounted on the load-carrying unit. Thus, the direction indications for the other components describe those components as if they were mounted on the load-carrying unit.

[0009] In some embodiments, the receiving portion may be configured to be accessible through a longitudinal end portion of the covering of the awning. The longitudinal end portion of the covering may be an end cap of the covering. The longitudinal end portion of the covering may include an opening that allows the accessory to pass through the longitudinal end portion of the covering and into the receiving portion.

[0010] In some embodiments, the receiving portion is provided by a roller tube. The roller tube may include an internal space having dimensions that allow the accessory to be received partially or fully within the awning. The opening may be at least partially formed in a bearing portion that is coupled to an end portion of the roller tube and is configured to rotatably support the roller tube within the longitudinal end portion of the covering. The receiving portion may be provided with an elastic material or a damping material on an inner wall that confines the receiving portion. The receiving portion may be provided within the roller tube such that the inserted accessory can rotate together with the roller tube. Thus, the awning may be capable of operating with the inserted accessory. With this configuration, for example, it may not be necessary to remove the crank from the awning to operate the crank, which may be beneficial if two awnings of a similar type are mounted adjacent to each other on a vehicle. In such a case, both awnings can be operated with the crank of one awning.

[0011] In some embodiments, the awning further includes a locking arrangement for releasably locking the attachment to the awning. The locking arrangement may include a lock operable by a key. Additionally or alternatively, the locking arrangement may include a locking member capable of engaging a mating portion on the attachment, such as being capable of automatically engaging the mating portion. The locking member may be a rotating member and may include an engaging section capable of engaging the mating portion. The locking member may be capable of pivoting between a locked position and an unlocked position. The locking member may be biased towards the locked position by a biasing member. The biasing member may include a spring. The locking member may be configured to be manually moved by a user to the unlocked position, such as overcoming the biasing force exerted on the locking member by the biasing member. The lock may include a lock cylinder and may be capable of transitioning between a locked state and an unlocked state, such as being capable of rotating between the locked state and the unlocked state. In the locked state, the lock blocks movement of the locking member towards the unlocked position. In the unlocked state, the locking member is capable of moving to the unlocked position. In some configurations, the mating portion is provided and configured to cooperate with a lock provided on the attachment (e.g., in an end member of the crank).

[0012] The mating portion may be provided on a bearing portion, such as being integrally formed with the bearing portion. The lock may include a lock cylinder capable of rotating between a locked position and an unlocked position about a lock cylinder axis. When the end member is in the stowed position on the bearing portion, the lock cylinder axis may extend parallel to the main extension direction of the roller tube. The lock cylinder may include a distal portion configured to engage the mating portion. The mating portion may include an insertion opening formed in the bearing portion. Additionally or alternatively, the awning may further include a covering member for covering the end member disposed on the longitudinal end portion of the covering or on the end cap. The covering member may be configured to be slidably engageable with the longitudinal end portion of the covering or with the end cap. The covering member may be configured such that it can be correctly installed on the longitudinal end portion of the covering or on the end cap only when the attachment, such as the crank, is correctly stowed in the awning, e.g., when the end member is inserted far enough into the insertion opening and the roller tube. The covering member may be configured to be slidable onto the end cap in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the awning and the roller tube. The end cap may include a guide groove for receiving a protrusion formed in the covering member.

[0013] In some embodiments, the awning further includes a biasing mechanism configured to apply a biasing force on the received accessory in the removal direction of the received accessory, particularly in the longitudinal direction of the awning. The biasing mechanism may include a force-applying member. The force-applying member may be a loop. The force-applying member may be supported against one or more pushing members. The pushing member may be a spring. The force-applying member may be configured to contact a force-receiving portion on the accessory. The force-receiving portion may be the inner surface or surfaces of an end member of the accessory. The force-applying member may be further configured to be moved to compress one or more pushing members when inserting the accessory in the longitudinal direction of the awning into the receiving portion.

[0014] In some embodiments, the awning accessory includes a rigid force-transfer structure and at least one spacer for locally enlarging the outer peripheral dimension of the rigid force-transfer structure. The awning accessory may be a crank for operating the awning. The awning accessory may be configured to be stowable on or within an awning having one or more of the features described previously. The rigid force-transfer structure may include one or more rod portions, such as a first rod portion, a second rod portion, and a third rod portion arranged in series in that order. The at least one spacer may be provided for providing a predefined support surface on the rigid force-transfer structure. Each spacer may be made of or may include an elastic material.

[0015] In some embodiments, the at least one spacer is formed as a sleeve and / or a ring and / or includes a foam material.

[0016] In some embodiments, the awning accessory includes at least two spacers of the type mentioned previously, wherein all spacers may include the same outer diameter. The outer diameter may correspond to the maximum diameter that allows insertion and stowage of the spacer in the awning (e.g., in the roller tube of the awning) to reduce the clearance.

[0017] In some embodiments, the awning accessory is a crank for operating the awning. The crank may include a front end portion configured to be coupled to an interface portion of the awning. The interface portion may be provided on a side of the awning opposite to the side where the crank may be received in the awning.

[0018] In a variant, the interface portion and the crank may be integrally formed. The interface portion may be a bracket or a sliding member that is slidably held in the longitudinal direction of the roller tube but is internally coupled to the roller tube so as to be rotatably coupled to the roller tube. In this solution, the crank is permanently connected to the interface and does not need to be removed from the awning and re-coupled to the interface portion. When the crank is pulled out, the bracket moves to the end portion of the roller tube and can then be rotated by operating the crank.

[0019] The crank may further include a rear end portion configured to be grasped by a user to perform a crank rotation motion for generating a rotational force. The rear end portion may include a crank handle portion. The crank handle portion may include a first gripping portion. The first gripping portion may be provided on the first rod portion. The crank handle portion may include a second gripping portion. The second gripping portion may be provided on the third rod portion. At least one of the first gripping portion and the second gripping portion may be formed by or include a spacer.

[0020] In some embodiments, the crank handle portion is capable of being switched between a use state and a non-use state. In the use state, the first gripping portion and the second gripping portion are configured for crank rotation operation. In the use state, the second gripping portion is offset relative to the first gripping portion, and the end extends parallel to the first gripping portion. In the non-use state, the first gripping portion and the second gripping portion are coaxially arranged.

[0021] In some embodiments, the awning attachment may further include an end member coupled to the rear end of the rear end portion. The end member may be configured to lock the awning attachment in the receiving portion, for example, by means of a lock and / or a threaded engagement. Additionally or alternatively, the end member may be provided with a gripping portion that allows a pulling force to be applied to the awning attachment to remove it from the receiving portion and / or a rotational force to be applied thereto to threadedly engage the end member in the end cap or the longitudinal end portion of the housing of the awning or to disengage the end member.

[0022] In some embodiments, the awning arrangement structure includes an awning of the above type and having one or more of the features as described above, and an awning attachment such as a crank having one or more of the features as described above.

[0023] The present invention also discloses an awning bracket for coupling an awning to a carrying structure, particularly to a mounting bracket that can be mounted on a carrying unit such as a vehicle. In some embodiments, the awning bracket is configured to be mountable on the awning, for example, on the rear side, the lower side, or the top side of the awning. In some embodiments, the awning bracket is configured to be mountable on or between the longitudinal end portions of the awning, for example, at a position between the longitudinal end portions of the covering or the end caps of the awning.

[0024] In some embodiments, the awning support may include an awning support portion. The awning support portion may be a plate-like member. The awning support portion may be made by cutting and bending a metal sheet. The awning support portion may include an upper portion that is configured to be received, for example, in a groove of the awning from below, such as in an upper portion of the rear side of the awning covering. The awning support may include openings (e.g., elongated slots) in opposite longitudinal ends for receiving a fixing member that is used to couple the awning support to the awning. In particular, the openings may be used to fix the awning support to a fixing structure on the awning. The awning may have such a fixing structure. The fixing structure may be provided by a track formed in the covering, such as a T-shaped track. The fixing structure may extend in the longitudinal direction of the covering, for example, over the entire or substantially the entire length of the covering. Such a fixing structure may allow the awning support to be mounted at any position in the longitudinal direction of the awning. Insertion openings may be provided in the longitudinal end portions of the covering to allow access to the interior of the track so as to insert the engaging portion of the fixing member into the track. With such a configuration, the awning support can be offset in two longitudinal directions to a desired fixing position and then fixed at the desired position.

[0025] The awning support may further be configured to be detachably coupled to a carrier structure from above or from the other side (e.g., the longitudinal end side or the transverse side). In some embodiments, the awning support is configured to establish and release a lock between the awning support and the carrier structure by means of an integral portion of the awning support that engages and disengages from the carrier structure.

[0026] In some embodiments, the awning support is configured to be inserted onto the carrier structure only by a pure translational movement of the awning support relative to the carrier structure and / or along the direction of gravity and / or along the height direction, particularly along the vertical direction.

[0027] In some embodiments, the awning support is configured to automatically establish a lock between the awning support and the carrier structure so as to block movement of the awning support relative to the carrier structure in the disengagement direction (e.g., in the vertically upward direction). In some embodiments, when the awning support is moved a predetermined distance onto the carrier structure in the insertion direction opposite to the disengagement direction (e.g., in the insertion direction in the vertically downward direction), the lock is automatically achieved or caused when the awning support is inserted onto the carrier structure.

[0028] In some embodiments, the awning support further includes a locking mechanism that includes an engaging portion that is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The engaging portion may be movable in the longitudinal direction of the awning support. The engaging portion may be pivotally movable about a pivot axis defined by a pivot pin. The locked position may be a position where the engaging portion engages the carrying structure, and the unlocked position may be a position where the engaging portion disengages from the carrying structure. The engaging portion may be biased toward the locked position by a pushing member such as a spring.

[0029] In some embodiments, the engaging portion may be configured to be pivotally movable about a pivot axis defined by a pivot pin, wherein the pivot axis may extend in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the awning support, particularly in a lateral direction.

[0030] In some configurations, the engaging portion may be linearly guided, for example, in one or more slots and / or in the longitudinal direction of the awning support.

[0031] In some configurations, the locking mechanism further includes an operating portion that is operatively coupled to the engaging portion for moving the engaging portion between the locked position and the unlocked position by operation of the user on the operating portion. The operating portion may be movable between a blocking position and a release position, wherein in the blocking position, the engaging portion is in the locked position, and wherein in the release position, the engaging portion is in the unlocked position. The operating portion and the engaging portion may be integrally formed in a single member such as a lever. The operating portion may project from the awning support, for example, from the lower side of the awning support, particularly such that the user can reach the operating portion with a hand. The operating portion and the engaging portion may be formed as separate components that are force-transmissively coupled to each other through a force transmission portion, such as through a rod. The engaging portion and the force transmission portion may be integrally formed by forging, for example. The operating portion may be provided in the longitudinal end portion of the awning support and / or on the outer side of the awning support. A blocking portion or a blocking member may be provided, wherein the blocking member may be configured to block the movement of the operating portion toward the unlocked position. The blocking member may include a locking section and an operating section. The locking section may be configured to engage a locking groove in the awning support. The blocking member and the force transmission portion may be hinge-coupled to the operating portion, for example, pivotable about the same axis.

[0032] The awning support may further include a guiding arrangement for removing the gap between the awning support and the carrying structure. The guiding arrangement may include a pushing portion that is configured to apply a thrust force on the lateral side of the received insertion section, particularly such that the insertion section is forced in the direction toward the awning support portion of the awning. The guiding arrangement may include a wedge portion, a guiding pin, and / or a guiding surface.

[0033] In some configurations, the awning includes an elongate covering such as a housing or a bag and an awning support of the type described above, which is mounted on the awning between the end portions of the awning, in particular at a position between the longitudinal end portions, such as the longitudinal end portions of the covering of the awning, or on the longitudinal end portions of the awning. The elongate covering may include a fixing structure for receiving the awning support in a displaceable manner. The fixing structure may include a track, such as a T-shaped track, which is formed, for example, in the longitudinal direction in the covering.

[0034] In some embodiments, a load-bearing structure is provided that is capable of being mounted on a load-bearing unit, in particular an awning load-bearing structure. The load-bearing unit may be a vehicle. The load-bearing structure may be configured to receive an awning support. The load-bearing structure may include a fixing section for fixedly coupling the load-bearing structure to the load-bearing unit, such as a vehicle. The load-bearing structure may include an insertion section that is configured to be received in the awning support. In some embodiments, the insertion section is offset from the fixing section in a first direction, such as the transverse direction, and extends in a second direction that intersects the first direction, such as the height direction.

[0035] In some embodiments, the insertion section includes a plurality of guiding features, which include guiding surfaces, guiding grooves, and / or wedge-shaped portions. In some embodiments, the insertion section includes a wedge-shaped portion that is provided on the insertion section on a side facing the fixing section. In some embodiments, the insertion section and the fixing section are configured such that when the fixing section is mounted on the load-bearing unit, the insertion section extends generally vertically upward in the height direction. In some embodiments, the insertion section may be configured as a plate-like member that includes a longitudinal extension along the fixing section, where the longitudinal extension may be an extension in the longitudinal direction of the load-bearing unit when the load-bearing structure is mounted on the load-bearing unit. In some embodiments, the insertion section may include a mating groove located at the longitudinal ends of the insertion section. The mating groove may extend into the insertion section in the longitudinal direction of the insertion section. In some embodiments, the load-bearing structure includes a bent metal sheet.

[0036] In some embodiments, a fixing device for fixing a awning bracket or a cover to a load-bearing structure is provided. The fixing device may be formed as a cover. The fixing device and the cover may together form a covering for covering the load-bearing structure. Thus, a two-part covering may be provided by the fixing device and the cover. In some embodiments, the fixing device can be detachably coupled to the load-bearing structure from below. In some embodiments, the fixing device can engage with the awning bracket or with the cover such that the load-bearing structure is at least partially disposed between the fixing device and the awning bracket or the cover, respectively. In some embodiments, the fixing device may include a lock for locking the fixing device to the awning bracket or the cover, respectively. In some embodiments, the cover may include a lock for locking the cover to the load-bearing structure. In some embodiments, the fixing device is configured to be operatively coupled to the awning bracket such that movement of an engaging portion of a locking mechanism of the awning bracket towards an unlocking position is blocked. In some embodiments, the fixing device may be configured to accommodate an operating portion of a locking mechanism of the awning bracket. In some embodiments, the fixing device may be configured to be mountable on the awning bracket and the load-bearing structure only when an engaging portion of the awning bracket is correctly engaged with the load-bearing structure. In some embodiments, the fixing device may include an opening for receiving a part of the operating portion. In some embodiments, the opening is configured and arranged such that the operating portion can be received in the opening only when the operating portion is in a blocking position and / or such that wall portions defining the opening block movement of the operating portion towards a release position. Thus, the wall portions can serve as a stop or abutment portion.

[0037] In some embodiments, an awning system includes an awning having one or more of the features described above, a load-bearing structure having one or more of the features described above, and optionally a fixing device having one or more of the features described above.

[0038] In some embodiments, an awning system includes an awning, an attachment lock for fixing an awning attachment such as a crank to the awning, and / or an awning lock for fixing the awning to the load-bearing structure and / or for blocking the use of the awning (e.g., the possibility of rolling in or out) and / or for firmly holding a specific part (e.g., a cover) on the awning in a closed position during driving. The awning may be an awning having one or more of the features of the awning described above. The attachment may be an attachment having one or more of the features of the awning described above.

[0039] In addition, a method for manufacturing a load-bearing structure is disclosed, which can be installed on a load-bearing unit such as a vehicle and is configured to receive a canopy bracket. According to the method, a metal sheet is provided. Optionally, the metal sheet is cut and / or stamped, for example, to produce openings and / or provide a specific shape. The metal sheet is partially deformed to form a first canopy side section of the load-bearing structure, for example, a standardized insertion section configured to be received in the canopy bracket. A second part of the partially deformed metal sheet is deformed to form a second section of the load-bearing structure adapted to the vehicle, for example, a fixing section for fixedly connecting the load-bearing structure to the load-bearing unit.

[0040] Another method for manufacturing a load-bearing structure is provided, which can be installed on a load-bearing unit such as a vehicle and is configured to receive a canopy bracket.

[0041] According to the method, a first section of the load-bearing structure is formed, for example, a standardized insertion section configured to be received in the canopy bracket. A second section of the load-bearing structure adapted to the vehicle is formed, for example, a fixing section for fixedly connecting the load-bearing structure (500) to the load-bearing unit. The first section and the second section are joined together to form the load-bearing structure. The first section and the second section can be joined by a chemical reaction or a thermal effect, for example, by welding.

[0042] In one configuration, a crank for operating a canopy is provided, for example, a crank configured to be stowable on or in the above-mentioned canopy. The crank includes a coupling portion configured to be coupled to an interface portion of the canopy. The crank further includes a crank handle portion configured to be operated by a user and a key-operable lock for locking the crank to the canopy, wherein the key-operable lock can be provided in an end member of the crank.

[0043] In one configuration, the key-operable lock is configured to engage with a bearing portion coupled to a roller tube such that when the crank is locked to the bearing portion, the crank can rotate together with the roller tube of the canopy. In this way, the crank can rotate together with the roller tube so that the roller tube can be operated by another crank or an operating unit (for example, an operating unit including an electric drive device). The bearing portion can be the above-mentioned bearing portion.

[0044] Further details regarding the possible configuration of the bearing portion and its arrangement in the canopy are described in more detail in the specific implementation section of this specification.

[0045] In another configuration, the key-operable lock can be configured to engage with the longitudinal end portion of the awning such that when the crank is locked to the longitudinal end portion, the crank remains stationary relative to the roller tube and cannot rotate together with the roller tube of the awning. In this way, the roller tube can also be locked. The longitudinal end portion can be part of the awning housing. The longitudinal end portion can include an end cap or can include a retainer. The retainer can be coupled to the covering of the awning. The retainer can include a support portion for supporting a bearing portion coupled to the roller tube.

[0046] In another configuration, a load-bearing structure is provided that can be mounted on a load-bearing unit. The load-bearing unit can be a vehicle. The load-bearing structure can include one or more features described in other parts of this specification. The load-bearing structure can include a fixing section for fixedly coupling the load-bearing structure to the vehicle. The load-bearing structure can further include an insertion section configured to be received in an awning bracket. The insertion section and the fixing section can be formed by forming a single metal sheet. For example, the insertion section and the fixing section can be formed by the method for manufacturing the load-bearing structure described above. The load-bearing structure can be configured such that during the process of the metal sheet from the insertion section to the fixing section or during the process of the metal sheet extending from the insertion section to the fixing section, the load-bearing structure includes three surface portions. The corresponding adjacent surface portions of the three surface portions are bent at corresponding predetermined angles along their corresponding bending lines. The load-bearing structure can further include at least one reinforcement section for increasing the stiffness of the load-bearing structure. The at least one reinforcement section extends from the surface portion of the insertion section into at least one other surface portion, for example, into a coupling section that couples the insertion section to the fixing section.

[0047] In some embodiments, the load-bearing structure includes two reinforcement sections in the reinforcement section. The first reinforcement section can extend over the three surface portions, and the second reinforcement section can extend over the two surface portions.

[0048] At least two of the reinforcement sections in the reinforcement zone may extend parallel to each other. At least two of the reinforcement sections in the reinforcement zone may include the same reinforcement section. At least one reinforcement section may be provided as a rib in the metal sheet. The load-bearing structure may include a connecting section that couples the insertion section and the fixing section. The first surface portion may be part of the insertion section, and the second surface portion may be part of the connecting section, and the third surface portion may be part of the fixing section. Thus, a reinforced load-bearing structure with a metal sheet having ribs that provide increased strength can be provided. The load-bearing structure may include at least two offsets of the bracket curvature and a plurality of reinforcement sections that overlap or extend over these offsets of the bracket curvature. The offsets of the bracket curvature may correspond to respective bent portions extending along respective bending lines. The reinforcement sections may also be configured such that they overlap each other such that a plane intersecting one of the reinforcement sections perpendicular to its main extension direction also intersects at least one other reinforcement section. In this way, a robust, multi-angle offset load-bearing structure can be provided.

[0049] A cover arrangement structure for covering a load-bearing structure (e.g., a load-bearing structure as described in other parts of this specification) is also provided. In particular, the cover arrangement structure may be configured to at least cover the insertion section of the load-bearing structure. The cover arrangement structure may include a front cover portion and a rear cover portion. The front cover portion and the rear cover portion may be configured to be detachably mounted to each other by means of snap-button connections.

[0050] A first cover portion (e.g., the rear cover portion) of the cover portion may be configured to snap onto the insertion section. The first cover portion may include at least one upper latch for engaging an upper edge portion of the insertion section and at least one lateral side latch (e.g., two lateral side latches) for engaging a lateral edge portion of the insertion section.

[0051] The first cover portion may include two latch receiving portions provided on opposite side portions of the first cover portion, e.g., provided on the lower portion and the upper portion of the first cover portion.

[0052] A second cover portion of the cover portion, e.g., the front cover portion, may be configured to snap onto the first cover portion, e.g., snap onto the rear cover portion. The second cover portion may include a locking hook for engaging the first cover portion. In one configuration, only the rear cover portion engages directly with the load-bearing structure, and the front cover portion engages with the rear cover portion.

[0053] Other features of the present invention will be apparent by considering the information contained above and the following or in combination with the following detailed description, drawings, and claims, and the configurations given in the sub-structures in the following aspects. The present invention is illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the drawings. Description of the Drawings

[0054] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part of the specification, illustrate possible configurations of the embodiments and, together with the specification, further serve to explain the principles of the embodiments and enable those skilled in the art to make and use these embodiments. It should be noted that the same or similar parts in different drawings are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0055] Figure 1 A perspective view from above of a canopy arrangement structure according to one embodiment is shown.

[0056] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 A perspective view from above of an end portion of the canopy arrangement structure of

[0057] Figure 3 Shows Figure 1 A side view of the canopy arrangement structure of

[0058] Figure 4 Shows according to Figure 1 An exploded view of an end portion of the canopy arrangement structure of

[0059] Figure 5 A rear end portion of a crank according to one embodiment is shown.

[0060] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the canopy arrangement structure taken in the lateral direction of the canopy arrangement structure and at a position adjacent to the front end portion of a first type of crank accommodated in the canopy arrangement structure is shown.

[0061] Figure 7 The front end portion of a first type of crank is shown.

[0062] Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the canopy arrangement structure taken in the lateral direction of the canopy arrangement structure and at a position adjacent to the front end portion of a second type of crank accommodated in the canopy arrangement structure is shown.

[0063] Figure 9 The front end portion of a second type of crank is shown.

[0064] Figure 10 A perspective view of the front longitudinal end portion of a canopy arrangement structure according to one embodiment is shown.

[0065] Figure 11 Shows where from Figure 10 The state in which the closing cover is removed from the end portion of the canopy arrangement structure shown in

[0066] Figure 12 Shows where a crank according to one embodiment is partially pulled outFigure 10 The state of the awning arrangement structure.

[0067] Figure 13 Shows a vehicle with an awning arrangement structure mounted on the roof according to an embodiment.

[0068] Figure 14 Shows details of an alternative configuration of a crank and awning arrangement structure according to an embodiment in perspective view.

[0069] Figure 15 Shows Figure 14 Different perspective views of the components shown.

[0070] Figure 16 Shows a perspective view of a mounting system including an awning bracket according to an embodiment and a load-bearing structure according to an embodiment.

[0071] Figure 17 Shows Figure 16 A front view of the components shown in a state where the awning bracket is vertically positioned above the load-bearing structure.

[0072] Figure 18 Shows Figure 17 A front view of the components shown in a state where the awning bracket is lowered onto the load-bearing structure.

[0073] Figure 19 Shows Figure 18 A side view of the components shown.

[0074] Figure 20 Shows an exemplary configuration of an awning bracket according to an embodiment.

[0075] Figure 21 Shows a perspective view of an arrangement structure in which an awning bracket according to an embodiment is mounted on the back surface of an awning covering.

[0076] Figure 22 Shows a perspective view of the back of an awning according to an embodiment.

[0077] Figure 23 Shows Figure 22 A perspective view of the end portion of the awning.

[0078] Figure 24 Shows Figure 18 A perspective view of the components shown as viewed from below.

[0079] Figure 25 Shows a perspective view from above of a load-bearing structure according to an embodiment and a fixing device according to an embodiment.

[0080] Figure 26 Shows Figure 24 A perspective view from below of the component shown, in which a fixing device according to an embodiment is installed.

[0081] Figure 27 Shows a perspective view from above of a load-bearing structure covered by a cover and a fixing device according to an embodiment.

[0082] Figure 28 Shows Figure 27 A perspective view from below of the cover shown.

[0083] Figure 29 Shows a perspective view of an alternative awning bracket mounted on a load-bearing structure.

[0084] Figure 30 Shows an Figure 29 awning bracket mounted on the awning and an exemplary load-bearing structure mounted on the vehicle roof.

[0085] Figure 31 Shows Figure 29 an exploded view of the awning bracket.

[0086] Figure 32 Shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the awning bracket engaged with the load-bearing structure.

[0087] Figure 33 Shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the awning bracket in a disengaged state.

[0088] Figure 34 Shows an awning bracket mounted on the vehicle roof.

[0089] Figures 35 to 37 Shows different stages in the manufacture of the load-bearing structure.

[0090] Figure 38 Shows a perspective view of the end portion of the awning.

[0091] Figure 39 Shows a perspective view of the end portion of a crank inserted into a drum tube and a bearing portion.

[0092] Figure 40 Shows a side view of the end portion of a crank inserted into the awning.

[0093] Figure 41 Shows a perspective view of a load-bearing structure on which a cover arrangement structure according to an embodiment is installed.

[0094] Figure 42 Shows Figure 41 a perspective view from behind of the front cover portion of the cover arrangement structure.

[0095] Figure 43 shows Figure 41 a perspective view of the rear cover portion of the protective cover arrangement structure of

[0096] Figure 44 shows Figure 43 a perspective view of the inner side of the rear cover portion of

[0097] Figure 45 shows a perspective view of a carrier structure according to an embodiment.

[0098] Figure 46 shows Figure 45 an additional perspective view of the carrier structure shown in

[0099] All the figures are only schematic depictions of exemplary embodiments, where specifically, the distance and dimensional relationships are not presented to scale.

[0100] The features and advantages of the embodiments will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals always denote corresponding elements. In the drawings, like reference numerals generally denote identical, functionally similar, and / or structurally similar elements. Detailed Description

[0101] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the application and use. Furthermore, no intention is made to be bound by any theory presented in the foregoing background art or the summary of the invention or the following detailed description.

[0102] The embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail with reference to the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. References to "an embodiment", "embodiments", "some embodiments", etc. indicate that the described embodiments may include specific features, structures, or characteristics, but each embodiment may not necessarily include the specific features, structures, or characteristics. Furthermore, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Additionally, when a specific feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it should be considered within the knowledge of those skilled in the art to implement such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments (whether explicitly described or not).

[0103] Spatially relative terms, such as "below", "beneath", "lower", "above", "upper", "top", "opposite", etc., may be used herein for ease of description to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element or feature as shown in the figures. Spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. The device may be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptors used herein may be interpreted accordingly.

[0104] The terms that describe a part or component as "releasable" and / or "detachable" relate to a configuration in which the part or component can be separated from at least another part or component without destroying the configuration of one of the cooperating parts or components. These terms can also describe a configuration in which the part and component can be separated or disengaged without tools (tool-free).

[0105] Figure 1 A possible basic configuration of the awning arrangement structure 1 is shown. Figure 1 is a perspective view of the awning arrangement structure 1 as viewed from above.

[0106] The awning arrangement structure 1 includes an awning 100. The awning 100 includes a covering 102, which can be a housing also known as an awning box. The covering 102 can be configured to be coupled to a carrier structure, such as a vehicle or a bracket mounted to a vehicle. The awning 100 can be, for example, capable of being mounted on the roof 3 of a vehicle 2, as Figure 13 shown.

[0107] The awning 100 further includes a fabric 104. The fabric 104 can be coupled at one of its ends to a roller tube ( Figure 1 not shown). The roller tube can be configured for winding and unwinding the fabric 104. An exemplary configuration of the roller tube 120 in the covering 102 of the awning 100 is shown in Figure 4 .

[0108] The roller tube 120 can be rotatably arranged between two covering longitudinal end portions 106, 108 in the covering 102. The first covering longitudinal end portion 106 of the two covering longitudinal end portions can form the right end portion of the covering 102, and the second covering longitudinal end portion 108 of the two covering longitudinal end portions can form the left end portion of the covering 102 of the mounted awning. The covering longitudinal end portions can be formed by end caps 112, 114.

[0109] In Figure 1 's configuration, a crank-operable awning arrangement structure 1 is provided. The fabric 104 is coupled at its first end 105 to a roller tube (see, for example, Figure 6 and Figure 8 , where the first end 105 of the wound fabric 104 is coupled to a fabric attachment portion 122 in the roller tube 120) and at its second end 107 opposite the first end 105 to a guide rail 110. The awning 100 is shown in a partially extended state in Figure 1 , where a portion of the fabric 104 is unwound from the roller and in a wound state in Figure 6 and Figure 8 .

[0110] A crank 200 is provided, which can be detachably coupled to the awning 100 for winding and unwinding the fabric 104. The crank 200 is detachably coupled to the interface portion 116 of the awning 100 at the front end portion 202 of the crank 200 in the configuration in Figure 1 . At the rear end portion 204 of the crank 200, a crank handle portion 206 is provided. The crank handle portion 206 is coupled to the intermediate portion 208. The intermediate portion 208 extends at least between the front end portion 202 and the crank handle portion 206 and is configured to transfer the rotational force or torque from the crank handle portion 206 to the front end portion 202. The intermediate portion 208 can be formed by a rod 214. The intermediate portion 208 can be configured to be variable in length (able to be telescopic) so as to reduce the overall length of the crank 200 for storage purposes. This can reduce the space in the awning occupied by the crank when stored in the awning and provide additional space for storing additional accessories.

[0111] The crank handle portion 206 includes a first gripping portion 210 and a second gripping portion 212. The first gripping portion 210 can be configured to be gripped by a user and remain substantially stationary during the crank rotation operation. The first gripping portion 210 defines the center of rotation of the second gripping portion 212 during the crank rotation. As Figure 1 shown, the second gripping portion 212 is radially offset relative to the first gripping portion 210 with respect to the rotational axis of the crank 200. The rotational axis of the crank 200 corresponds to or is parallel to the longitudinal intermediate axis of the intermediate portion 208 (e.g., a part of the rod 214). The first gripping portion 210 and the second gripping portion 212 can be configured as sleeves mounted on the crank 200 in a manner rotatable relative to the underlying support structure. For example, the first gripping portion 210 can be provided on the rear end portion of the intermediate portion 208 and / or the rod 214.

[0112] The crank 200 can be configured to be foldable between a use state and a non-use state. In the use state, the crank rotation operation can be performed. In the non-use state, the crank 200 is in its substantially straight extended configuration. More precisely, the crank handle portion 206 can be configured to be convertible between a first state and a second state. In the first state, the first gripping portion 210 and the second gripping portion 212 are radially offset relative to each other (see the configuration in Figure 1 ), and in the second state, both the first gripping portion 210 and the second gripping portion 212 are coaxially arranged relative to the same axis (e.g., the rotational axis of the crank 200) (see the configuration in Figure 2 ). In other words, the crank handle portion 206 can be foldable into a straight configuration such that the entire crank 200 can be configured into an elongated substantially straight configuration.

[0113] Figure 2 The configuration of the crank 200 is shown, in which the crank 200 is folded into a non-use state. The crank handle portion 206 includes a first rod portion 216 on which a first gripping portion 210 is provided. The first rod portion 216 may be integrally formed with the rod 214. In the illustrated configuration, the first rod portion 216 is formed by the rear end portion of the rod 214. The crank handle portion 206 further includes a second rod portion 218 that is hingedly coupled to the first rod portion 216 at its first end by means of a first hinge 222. The crank handle portion 206 further includes a third rod portion 220 that is hingedly coupled to the second rod portion 218 at its first end by means of a second hinge 224. At the second end of the third rod portion 220, an end member 226 is provided. The end member 226 may be an end cap and may be formed or provided on the rear end portion of the crank 200.

[0114] Figure 2 The end member 226 according to the first configuration is shown. This end member will also be referred to as the first end member 234. The end member 226 may be disc-shaped, and its outer diameter is such that the end member 226 is the part of the crank 200 having the largest radial dimension. The end member 226 may be coupled to the third rod portion 220 on one side or the inner side. On the opposite side, the end member 226 may include a gripping portion 228 (e.g., a protrusion), thereby allowing the user to grip the rear end of the crank 200 to apply a pulling force thereon in some configurations and / or to apply a rotational force thereon in a modified configuration to threadedly engage and disengage the end member 226. In addition, the end member 226 may form part of the end cap 112 when inserted therein. The first end member 234 may be configured to close the insertion opening 119 in the awning 100 for inserting the crank 200. The end member 226 may be configured to sealingly close the opening 119. For this purpose, the end member 226 may be configured to be similar to Figure 5 the end member 236 shown. A sealing member 240 such as a sealing ring may be provided on the outer periphery of the end member 226, particularly in a groove 242 provided in the outer periphery of the end member 226 (see Figure 5 ).

[0115] Figure 5Shown therein is an end member 226 according to a second configuration. This end member will also be referred to as the second end member 236. The second configuration differs from the aforementioned first configuration in that the second end member 236 includes a generally flat or uniform outer surface 238 that does not include the aforementioned gripping portion 228 or any other significant local protrusions. The outer surface 238 can be configured to produce a generally seamless transition to a surface portion of the awning around the insertion opening into the outer surface 238 in order to prevent the accumulation of any dust. An inner surface 239 can be provided on the opposite side of the outer surface 238 and can be configured as a force application surface for receiving a driving force from a driving mechanism. Such a driving mechanism can at least include a driving member 128 and / or optionally a force application member 130 that is configured to contact the inner surface 239 and distribute the driving force evenly over the inner surface 239. An engagement portion 244 can be provided on the outer surface 238 of the second end member 236. Such an engagement portion 244 can be configured to be engaged by a locking arrangement structure 139 for firmly holding the crank 200 in the drum tube. The locking arrangement structure 139 can be configured with a lock 144 that can only be operated by a key. In this way, the locking arrangement structure 139 can serve as an anti-theft protection device.

[0116] The crank 200 may further include a coupling portion 230 provided on its front end portion 202 and configured to be coupled to an interface portion 116 of the awning 100. The coupling portion 230 can be configured in different ways. For example, as Figure 7 shown, the coupling portion 230 can include a T-shaped coupling 250. The T-shaped coupling can include a longitudinally extending support portion 251 that is coupled at one end to an intermediate portion 208 or forms an integral part of the intermediate portion 208. At the opposite end of the support portion 251 (at the front end of the crank 200), laterally extending engagement protrusions 252, 254 are provided that project from the support portion 251 from opposite sides. The coupling portion 230 can also include an L-shaped configuration 261 as Figure 9 shown. The L-shaped configuration can include an elongated base 258. The elongated base 258 can have a non-circular outer periphery that is configured to be received in a force transmission receiving profile in the interface 116. At the free end portion of the base 258, a snap-in end portion 256 can be provided that is configured to be received in the interface 116 in a snap-fit manner to prevent the crank 200 from disengaging from the interface 116.

[0117] As Figure 2 and Figure 4As further shown in, the awning 100 is configured to receive and accommodate the crank 200 therein, and the crank 200 is configured to be accommodated in the awning 100, for example, in the covering 102. The awning 100 can be configured to allow the crank 200 to be inserted therein through one of the longitudinal end portions 106, 108 of the covering. In the illustrated configuration, the awning 100 is configured such that the crank 200 can be inserted therein through the first longitudinal end portion 106 of the covering, more precisely through the end cap 112. Under the condition that the awning 100 is mounted on the vehicle, the first longitudinal end portion 106 of the covering can be the front end portion in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

[0118] Figure 2 and Figure 4 The bearing portion 118 coupled to the drum tube 120 disposed inside the covering 102 is shown. The bearing portion 118 includes an opening forming portion of the opening 119, which allows access to the internal space 121 of the drum tube 120 inside the covering 102 (see Figure 4 ). The crank 200 can be at least partially inserted into the drum tube 120 via the opening 119. In this way, the crank 200 can be at least partially accommodated in the awning 100 (see, for example, Figure 6 and Figure 8 ). It should be noted that the configuration shown in the drawings allows the crank 200 to be fully accommodated within the awning 100.

[0119] Reference will be made to Figures 3 to 5 to describe a possible configuration of the front (right) longitudinal end portion 106 of the covering.

[0120] Figure 3 A side view of the awning 100 according to an embodiment as viewed in the longitudinal backward direction (from the right side) is shown. The longitudinal end portion 106 of the covering can be formed as the end cap 112. The longitudinal end portion 106 of the covering can be mounted on the covering 102. The longitudinal end portion 106 of the covering can rotatably support the drum tube 120 at one end of the drum tube 120. The end member 226 of the crank 200 is shown. The end member 226 corresponds to the second end member 236 as described above. The end member 226 is received in the opening 119 for accessing the internal space 121 of the drum tube 102. The outer surface 238 is arranged to be generally flush with the surrounding covering surface. A locking arrangement structure 139 is provided, which locks the end member 226 in the end cap 112 in the illustrated state, such that the crank 200 is fixed in the awning 100.

[0121] Figure 4Further features of a possible configuration of the longitudinal end portion 106 of the covering are shown. The longitudinal end portion 106 of the covering may include a retainer 124 having a wall portion for an end portion of the covering 102 covering the awning 100. The retainer 124 includes a support portion 126 having an opening-forming portion of the opening 119 and is configured to rotatably support the bearing portion 118. The support portion 126 includes a cylindrical wall section. On the outer side of the cylindrical wall section, two push members 128 are provided on opposite sides of the cylindrical wall section. A force-applying member 130 in the form of a flat ring is received on the cylindrical wall section such that it can move in the axial direction of the cylindrical wall section (the longitudinal direction of the awning or the drum tube) but is locked against rotation around the cylindrical wall section. The force-applying member 130 remains in contact with the push member 128 on one side, and its opposite side can be used to contact an end member 226, such as the end member 236 as Figure 5 shown. The retainer 124 is fixed to the covering 102 by means of a fixing member 132. Also as Figure 4 shown, the bearing portion 118 is fixed to the end of the drum tube 120 by means of a fixing member 125.

[0122] The longitudinal end portion 106 of the covering further includes a housing section 138. The housing section 138 is configured to be coupled to the retainer 124. The housing section 138 is configured to accommodate a push mechanism composed of the push member 128 and the force-applying member 130 and to accommodate components of a locking arrangement 139. The locking arrangement 139 includes a locking member 136 having an engaging section 137 capable of engaging with an engaging portion 244 of the crank 200. The locking member is pivotable between a locked position and an unlocked position. A push member 134 such as a spring is provided for biasing the locking member 136 towards the locked position. The locking member 136 can be manually moved by a user to the unlocked position. For this purpose, the housing section 138 includes an opening 140 allowing access to an operating portion of the locking member 136. For example, as Figure 3 shown, in some configurations, the operating portion may protrude slightly beyond the opening 140. The longitudinal end portion 106 of the covering may further include a lock 144. The lock 144 may include a lock core 145 rotatably held in a receiving groove 142 in the housing section 138. The lock core 145 is capable of rotating between a locked state and an unlocked state. In the locked state, the end portion of the lock core 145 blocks the movement of the locking member 136 towards the unlocked position. In this way, the lock 144 can prevent the locking member 136 to prevent accidental removal of the crank 200.

[0123] In different configurations, a lock for locking the crank 200 to the lateral housing portion 106 may be provided in the end member 226 of the crank 200. Figure 14 and Figure 15Shows a configuration in which the lock 266 is provided in the end member 260. The lock 266 also includes a lock core 268. The tip end portion of the lock core can engage with the engagement portion 123 provided on the bearing portion 118.

[0124] Reference will be made to Figures 10 to 12 Describe another configuration of the longitudinal end portion 106 of the cover. In this configuration, the longitudinal end portion 106 of the cover includes a cover member 152 for closing the opening 119. The cover member 152 may include a gripping portion 154. The cover member 152 and the longitudinal end portion 106 of the cover may be configured such that the cover member 152 can be threadedly engaged with the longitudinal end portion 106 of the cover. For this purpose, the longitudinal end portion 106 of the cover may include a threaded portion 150. Figures 10 to 12 Also shown is a series of steps performed by the user when removing the crank 200 from the awning 100. In the configuration shown, the cover member 152 is first removed from the awning 100. After that, as Figure 11 shown, the interior is revealed, allowing access to the end member 226 of the crank 200. As Figure 12 shown, the user can now grasp the gripping portion 228 and pull out the crank 200. Once the crank 200 is completely removed from the awning 100, the user can convert the crank handle portion 206 to the use state and link it to the interface portion 116. Storing the crank 200 can be performed by performing the steps in the reverse order.

[0125] In another configuration, the cover member 152 may be configured to be slidably engageable with the awning, for example, slidably engageable with the longitudinal end portion 106 of the cover and / or the end cap 112, as Figure 38 and Figure 40 best seen in.

[0126] Generally speaking, the awning may be configured such that the cover member 152 can be correctly installed on the awning, for example, on the end cap 112, only when the accessory (e.g., the crank 200) is correctly stored in the awning. The cover member 152 may be configured to be movable to the closed position only when the end member 260 is inserted far enough into the insertion opening 119 and the drum tube 120. When screwing the cover member 152 into the opening or screwing it onto the end cap 112, the movement to the closed position can be a rotational movement or can be a sliding movement. The end member 260 may include a gripping portion 264 similar to the aforementioned gripping portion 228. However, the clamping portion 264 is provided in a groove 262 formed in the end member 260. The clamping portion 264 may be a rib extending in the groove 262.

[0127] As Figure 38 and Figure 40Best visible in, the end cap 112 may include a guiding groove 113 for receiving a ribbed projection formed in the covering member 152. The guiding groove may extend in a direction inclined to the longitudinal direction of the awning or the roller tube 120. The covering member 152 may be configured to be substantially flush with the end cap 112 when mounted on the end cap 112 in the closed position. The covering member 152 may be configured such that the insertion opening 119 is closed, thereby creating a substantially seamless outer surface on the end cap. In other words, the covering member 152 may be designed such that the transition between its outer surface, which remains visible when in the closed position, and the outer surface of the end cap 112 is substantially seamless.

[0128] Figure 39 and Figure 40 shows a state in which the crank 200 is not positioned in the storage position. The end member 261 protrudes from the end cap 112 and blocks the insertion of the covering member 152 because it is not possible to move the lower part 153 of the covering member 152 past the end member 261. The end member 261 may include a lock 266 as described in the embodiments in conjunction with Figure 14 and Figure 15 . The lock 266 may include a lock cylinder 268 that can be operated with a key. The lock cylinder 268 may include a tip end portion that can engage with the longitudinal end portion 106 (e.g., with the end cap 112). The longitudinal end portion 106 and / or the end cap 112 may include an engagement portion 123 for receiving the end portion of the lock cylinder 268. The end portion of the lock cylinder 268 is configured to be rotatable between a disengaged position and an engaged position, in the disengaged position, the end portion can be inserted into and removed from the engagement portion 123, and in the engaged position, the end portion is forcibly locked with the engagement portion 123. When the lock cylinder is in the locked position, its end portion cannot be inserted into the engagement portion 123 and abuts against portions 115, 117 of the end cap 112, thereby restricting the insertion opening 111 for the end portion of the lock cylinder 268. Thus, if the lock cylinder 268 is in the locked position, the end member 261 cannot be moved to the storage position. In other words, in order to properly store the end member 261 within the end cap 112, it is necessary to move the lock cylinder 268 to the open position.

[0129] The lock cylinder 268 may be configured such that the key can be inserted into and removed from the lock cylinder only when the lock cylinder is in the locked position, and cannot be inserted into and removed from the lock cylinder when the lock cylinder is in the open position.

[0130] In some configurations, a damping structure may be provided to prevent the clicking sound generated by the accessories housed in the awning hitting surrounding objects (especially the inner wall of the roller tube) due to the vibration during the travel of the vehicle on which the awning is mounted. Such a damping structure may be provided on the accessories or in the accommodation space in the awning.

[0131] Although not shown, the inner peripheral wall of the drum tube 120 may be provided with a damping material for preventing the rigid portions of the attachment from contacting the drum tube. In other configurations, a damping structure may be provided on the attachment. For example, spacers may be provided on the attachment. In some configurations, at least one of the spacers 210, 212, 232 is provided on the crank 200.

[0132] Exemplary configurations may be obtained from Figure 2 , Figures 4 to 9 , Figures 12 to 15 . In this configuration, three spacers 210, 212, 232 are provided on the crank 200. Each spacer enlarges the outer peripheral dimension of the crank 200. As previously described, the crank 200 may include one or more rod portions 216, 218, 220. The rod portions may together form a rigid force transmission structure. Such rigid portions may generate noise when contacting other rigid portions (such as the drum tube). The spacers are provided to ensure that such rigid portions are sufficiently spaced apart from other rigid portions (e.g., portions in the awning 100). As Figure 13 shown, when the crank 200 is coupled to and suspended from the awning 100 mounted on the vehicle 2, such spacers may also be provided to prevent the rigid portions of the crank 200 from contacting and damaging the outer surface of the vehicle. Thus, the spacers may have a dual function of preventing rattling during storage and damaging the vehicle during the use of the crank.

[0133] In Figure 2 the exemplary configuration, the spacer 210 is provided on the first rod portion 216 and forms a first gripping portion. The spacer 212 is provided on the third rod portion 220 and forms a second gripping portion. The spacer 232 is provided on the front end portion 202 adjacent to the coupling portion 230. Thus, three sections are provided by the spacers for contacting the inner wall of the drum tube 120. The radial dimension or outer diameter of the spacers may be greater than the radial protrusions of the connectors 250, 261 on the crank 200, as Figure 6 and Figure 8 shown. The radial dimension or outer diameter of the spacers may be slightly smaller than the dimension between the fabric attachment portion 122 and the diagonally opposite inner wall portion of the drum tube 120. Each spacer may be made of a foam material. Another benefit of the spacers may be obtained from Figure 13 . Here, the spacers prevent the rigid portions of the crank 200 from contacting the vehicle side wall portion 4. In this way, damage to the vehicle side wall portion 4 is prevented.

[0134] Hereinafter, a coupling arrangement structure for coupling an awning to a carrier such as a vehicle will be described. Figures 16 to 19 An exemplary coupling arrangement structure 300 is shown in

[0135] The awning bracket 400 is configured to be mountable on the awning 100. The awning bracket 400 may include an awning support portion 404. The awning support portion 404 may be a plate-like member. The awning support portion 404 may be made by cutting and bending a metal sheet 406. The awning support portion 404 may include an upper portion 402 that is configured to be received, for example, from below in a groove 109 of the awning 100, such as in an upper portion of the rear side of the covering 102 of the awning 100 (see Figure 21 ). The awning support 404 may include openings 412, 414 (e.g., elongated slots) in opposite longitudinal ends 408, 410 for receiving a fixing member for coupling the awning support 404 to the awning 100. In particular, the openings 412, 414 may be used to fix the awning support 404 to a fixing structure 103 on the awning 100. Such a fixing structure 103 may be provided by a track, such as a T-shaped track, formed in the covering 102. As Figure 22 shown, the fixing structure 103 may extend in the longitudinal direction of the covering 102, such as over the entire or substantially the entire length of the covering 102. Such a fixing structure 103 allows the awning bracket 400 to be mounted at any position in the longitudinal direction of the awning 100. As Figure 23 shown, insertion openings 111 may be provided in the covering longitudinal end portions 106, 108 to allow access to the interior of the track so as to insert a engaging portion 492 of a fixing member 490 into the track. An exemplary fixing member 490 is shown in Figure 24 . Although the fixing member 490 is used in the shown configuration to couple a load-bearing structure 500 to a fixing point of the vehicle 2, the fixing member 490 may also be used to fix the awning bracket 400 to the awning 100. The engaging portion 492 may be a plate-like portion. The fixing member 490 may be a T-bolt. With such a configuration, the awning bracket 400 can be offset (see the double arrow B in Figure 22 and Figure 23 ) to a desired fixing position in two longitudinal directions and then fixed in the desired position. The openings 412, 414 may extend in a direction crossing the longitudinal direction of the awning support portion 404 and the awning 100.

[0136] The awning support 400 is configured to establish and release a lock between the awning support and the load-bearing structure 500. To this end, the awning support 400 may include an integral portion that engages and disengages from the load-bearing structure. When engaged, it blocks the awning support 400 from disengaging from the load-bearing structure 500. The awning support 400 may be configured to be inserted onto the load-bearing structure 500 by translational movement in a downward direction. In other words, the awning support 400 may be configured to be inserted onto the load-bearing structure 500 from above and below (e.g., in the direction of gravity). Thus, the installation of the awning 100 on the load-bearing structure 500 can be carried out with the assistance of gravity. The awning support 400 may include an opening 470 formed in its lower portion. The opening 470 may be defined between the aforementioned awning support portion 404 and the housing portion 458. The housing portion 458 may be a plate-like portion. The awning support portion 404 and the housing portion 458 may be fixedly coupled to each other by means of fixing members (e.g., screws). To this end, the awning support portion 404 and the housing portion 458 may include openings 416 for receiving the fixing members. The opening 470 may include a rectangular shape that generally corresponds to the shape of the insertion section 510 of the load-bearing structure. The insertion section may be a flat portion.

[0137] The load-bearing structure 500 is configured to be mountable on a load-bearing unit. The load-bearing unit may be a vehicle. In some embodiments, the load-bearing structure 500 may also be referred to as a vehicle bracket. The load-bearing structure 500 may include a fixing section 502 for fixedly coupling the load-bearing structure 500 to the vehicle. The fixing section 502 may include an opening 506 (see Figure 16 ), for receiving a fixing member 507 (see Figure 25 ), such as a screw, for fixedly coupling the load-bearing structure 500 to a fixing point of the vehicle 2. Depending on the configuration of the load-bearing unit, such as the vehicle, on which the load-bearing structure is to be mounted, an additional fixing section 504 having an opening 508 may be provided in a different orientation. The load-bearing structure 500 may further include an insertion section 510 that is configured to be received in the awning support 400. As Figure 19 shown, the insertion section 510 is offset from the fixing section 502 in a first direction, such as the lateral direction, and extends in a second direction that intersects the first direction, such as in the height direction. When the load-bearing structure 500 is mounted on such a vehicle, the first direction may be the lateral direction of the vehicle. The second direction may be the vertical direction or substantially the vertical direction, which is at least an upward direction under the installation conditions of the load-bearing structure 500. The insertion section 510 may be configured as a plate-like member that includes an extension along the fixing section 502, wherein when the load-bearing structure is mounted on the vehicle, the longitudinal extension may extend parallel to the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Additional features that may be provided on the load-bearing structure 500 are described in other parts of this specification.

[0138] The awning support 400 may further include a guiding and arranging structure 450. The guiding and arranging structure 450 is configured to remove a gap between the awning support 400 and the load-bearing structure 500 in at least one of a longitudinal direction, a transverse direction, and / or a height direction. The guiding and arranging structure 450 may include a wedge portion 460, guiding pins 452, and / or guiding surfaces 454, 456.

[0139] The wedge portion 460 may be provided on the housing portion 458, for example, integrally formed therewith or as a separate component mounted thereon. The wedge portion 460 includes an inclined surface 462. The inclined surface 462 is oriented toward the awning support portion 404. The inclined surface 462 extends such that the distance between the wedge portion 460 and the inner surface of the awning support portion 404 increases toward the opening 470. The inclined surface, the guiding surfaces 454, 456, and the inner surface of the awning support portion 404 may define an internal receiving space for receiving the insertion section 510 of the load-bearing structure. With the inclined surface 462, the internal receiving space gradually decreases in the direction of the upper portion of the awning support 400 (the upward direction in the height direction), so that the gap between the inserted insertion section 510 and the awning support 400 can be reduced. The internal receiving space is accessible through the opening 470. With this configuration and in particular with the inclined surface 462, the awning support portion 404 can be offset toward the insertion section 510 and / or be pushed against the insertion section 510. The wedge portion 460 may be configured to cooperate with a wedge portion 518 provided on the insertion section 510 of the load-bearing structure 500. The wedge portion 518 may be integrally formed with the insertion section or may be a separate component attached to the insertion section. The wedge portion 518 may be provided on the insertion section 510 on a side of the load-bearing structure 500 facing the fixed section 502. The wedge portion 518 is arranged oppositely to the wedge portion 460. The wedge portion 518 includes an inclined surface 526 for contacting the inclined surface 462. As Figure 19As shown, the wedge portions 460 and 518 can be configured such that the angle between their back surfaces and their inclined surfaces is the same. With this configuration, when the insertion section 510 is received in the awning bracket 400, the outer surface portion of the insertion section 510, particularly the surface portion facing the awning support portion 404, and the outer surface portion of the housing section 458 can be arranged substantially parallel to each other when the insertion section 510 is received in the awning bracket 400. For example, the insertion section 510 can extend in the vertical direction such that the awning bracket 400 mounted thereon also extends in the vertical direction. Due to the wedging action that occurs between the wedge portions during the process of inserting or receiving the insertion section 510 in the awning bracket 400, the awning support portion 404 moves towards the insertion section 510 and is pushed against the insertion section, such that the outer surface of the insertion section 510 and the inner surface of the awning support portion 404 are in surface contact with no gap therebetween.

[0140] The guide surfaces 454, 456 can extend obliquely with respect to the longitudinal direction of the awning bracket 400, can be oriented downward (e.g., towards the opening 470), and can particularly extend at an angle with respect to each other, and for example such that the imaginary extension portions of the guide surfaces 454, 456 intersect each other at a point above the receiving space (e.g., at the longitudinal middle position above the receiving space). The mating contact surfaces 522, 524 can be provided on the insertion section 510. The guide surfaces 454, 456 and the mating contact surfaces 522, 524 can be configured to be in surface contact with each other when the insertion section 510 is fully received in the awning bracket 400.

[0141] As a supplement or alternative to the guide surfaces 454, 456, guide pins 452 can be provided in the inner receiving space of the awning bracket 400. The guide pins 452 can be supported at one end on the awning support portion 404 and can be supported at the other end on the housing section 458 and / or the wedge portion 460. The guide pins 452 form a guiding device that can be received in a guiding groove 514 formed in the insertion section 510. An exemplary guiding groove 514 is shown in Figure 17 When the carrying structure 500 is mounted on a carrying unit such as a vehicle, the guiding groove extends generally perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the carrying structure 500 and in an upward direction (e.g., vertically upward). The guiding groove 514 can include an inner portion and an outer portion. The upper portion can be formed in a funnel shape, having a receiving portion that widens towards the opening section of the guiding groove 514 and narrows towards the inner portion of the guiding groove 514. The inner portion of the guiding groove 514 can include a width that generally corresponds to the outer diameter of the guide pin 452. The dimensions of the inner portion can be such that the guide pin 452 can be received therein in a generally gapless manner.

[0142] In some embodiments, the awning support 400 may be configured to automatically establish a lock between the awning support 400 and the load-bearing structure 500 so as to prevent movement of the awning support 400 relative to the load-bearing structure 500 in the detachment direction. In some configurations, when the awning support 400 is moved a predetermined distance onto the load-bearing structure 500 in an insertion direction opposite to the detachment direction, locking may be automatically caused when the awning support 400 is inserted onto the load-bearing structure 500. In some embodiments, the insertion direction may be a downward direction, such as vertically from above.

[0143] The awning support 400 may include a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may include an engagement portion 436. The engagement portion 436 may be movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. As shown in the drawings, the engagement portion 436 may be capable of moving between the locked position and the unlocked position in the longitudinal direction of the awning support 400. As Figures 16 to 18 shown in the exemplary configuration of, the engagement portion 436 may be capable of pivoting movement about a pivot axis defined by a pivot pin 446. The pivot axis may extend in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the awning support 400, for example parallel to the guide pin 452 and / or extending in the transverse direction if a guide pin 452 is provided. The locked position is the position where the engagement portion 436 engages with the load-bearing structure 500, and the unlocked position may be the position where the engagement portion 436 disengages from the load-bearing structure 500. The engagement portion 436 may be biased towards the locked position by a pushing member 440, which is a spring 441 in the illustrated configuration. To receive the engagement portion 436, the insertion section 510 of the load-bearing structure 500 may include an engagement groove 516 located in the longitudinal end portion of the insertion section 510. The engagement groove 516 extends into the insertion section 510 in the longitudinal direction of the insertion section 510. When the insertion section 510 is viewed in the transverse direction, such as Figure 17As shown, the engagement groove 516 can extend into the insertion section 510 from the left or from the right. The engagement groove 516 may include a curved upper surface 520 configured to contact an upper portion of the engagement part 436. The upper surface 520 may be curved in a convex manner protruding towards the interior of the engagement groove 516. The locking mechanism may be configured such that when the awning bracket 400 is inserted onto the insertion section 510, the engagement part 436 automatically moves into the unlocked position. The engagement part 436 may be pushed towards the unlocked position by a portion of the insertion section 510. For example, a lower portion of the engagement part 436 may be configured to slidably contact the contact surface 522 when the awning bracket 400 is inserted onto the insertion section 510, which results in the movement of the engagement part 436 towards the unlocked position. In other words, the insertion section 510 moves the engagement part through surface contact. Once the engagement part 436 is aligned with the engagement groove 516, the engagement part 436 may automatically snap into the engagement groove 516 due to the driving force applied thereto by the driving member 440. The engagement part 436 may be a part of the lever 432, such as an integral part. The lever 432 may be pivotally mounted about a pivot pin 446 at its first part 438 (e.g., the first end part). The engagement part 436 may be provided in an intermediate section of the lever 432.

[0144] The locking mechanism may further include an operating part 434. The operating part may be formed by an end part of the lever 432, particularly by an end part of the lever 432 opposite to the first part 438, and may be a lower part of the lever 432 when viewed from the side of the awning bracket 400, e.g., in the lateral direction of the vehicle when the awning bracket 400 is mounted on a carrying structure 500 fixed to a fixing point of the vehicle. The operating part 434 is operatively coupled to the engagement part 436 for moving the engagement part 436 between the locked position and the unlocked position by the user's operation of the operating part 434. The operating part 434 may be capable of moving between a blocking position and a release position. In the blocking position, the engagement part 436 is in the locked position, and in the release position, the engagement part 436 is in the unlocked position. The operating part 434 and the engagement part 436 may be integrally formed in a single member, such as the lever 432 as previously described. For example, as Figure 18 shown, the operating part 434 may protrude from the awning bracket 400, e.g., from the lower side of the awning bracket 400. In particular, the operating part 434 may protrude from the awning bracket such that the user can reach the operating part 434 with a hand. To disengage the engagement part 436 from the insertion section 510, as Figure 18As shown by arrow A, the user can move the operating portion 434 by overcoming the driving force of the pushing member 440. Since the engagement between the engaging portion 436 and the engaging groove 516 occurs in the longitudinal direction, the lateral dimensions of the awning bracket 400 and the insertion section 510 can be small. In addition, since the locking occurs inside the awning bracket 400, the safety for the user is improved.

[0145] In some embodiments, a plurality (e.g., two) of awning brackets 400 may be attached to the awning 100, as Figure 22 shown. The awning brackets 400 may be operatively coupled to each other such that the locking mechanisms of the plurality of awning brackets 400 can be operated simultaneously. In this way, even in a long awning, a single user can unlock multiple awning brackets, which is usually impossible for a user to reach all the awning brackets simultaneously in a long awning. The awning brackets may be coupled by a force transmission mechanism that operatively couples the engaging portions and / or the operating portions of the locking mechanisms of the awning brackets. Such a force transmission mechanism may include a cable, such as a Bowden cable. In another configuration, at least one locking mechanism of one of the plurality of awning brackets may include a mechanism that allows the engaging portion to be temporarily fixed in the unlocked position, for example, by snapping a lever into a corresponding receiving portion. In this way, the user can first disengage the engaging portion in such an awning bracket and then only needs to disengage the remaining engaging portions of the second awning bracket in order to be able to remove the awning from the carrying structure.

[0146] In some embodiments, a fixing device 600 is provided. Reference will be made to Figures 25 to 28Describe the fixture 600. The fixture 600 may include a shell-like shape having a lower portion 602, longitudinal wall portions 604, 606 that project from the longitudinal end portions of the lower portion 602 in a generally vertical manner, and a transverse wall portion 608 that projects between the longitudinal wall portions 604, 606 on the transverse outer side of the lower portion 602. The fixture 600 can be detachably coupled to the carrier structure 500 from below. To this end, the fixture 600 may include a latch 610 that projects from the lower portion 602 of the fixture 600 and includes a hook-shaped free end portion 612 that is configured to engage with the lower portion 511 of the carrier structure 500. In one variant, one or more latches may be provided for detachably coupling the fixture to the awning bracket. For positioning purposes, the fixture 600 may optionally include a protrusion 614, and the carrier structure 500 may include an opening 513 for receiving the protrusion 614 therein. Additionally, when no awning bracket 400 is mounted on the carrier structure, the fixture 600 may be able to engage with the awning bracket 400 or with a cover 700 that may be provided at least on the insertion section 510, or may be able to engage with the carrier structure 500. The fixture 600 may be able to be locked by means of a lock, such as a lock core that locks with the awning bracket 400 or the cover 700 or the carrier structure 500. Figure 27 and Figure 28 An exemplary cover 700 is shown. The cover 700 may include a trough-like shape having an upper wall portion 702, lateral outer wall portions 708, lateral inner portions 710, and two longitudinal wall portions 704, 706, where all of the latter wall portions project on the corresponding sides of the upper wall portion 702 in the same direction, thereby forming an internal space for receiving the insertion section 510. On the inner side of the upper wall portion 702, receiving sections 712, 714 for receiving the upper end portion of the insertion section 510 are formed in ribs that project from the upper wall portion 702 into the internal space. As Figure 28 Further shown, a protrusion 716 is provided on the inner side of the lateral outer wall portion 708. A receiving portion 718 for engaging with the lock may be formed in the protrusion 716.

[0147] The fixture 600 can be attached such that the carrier structure 500 is at least partially disposed between the fixture 600 and the awning bracket 400 or the cover 700. The fixture 600 may include a lock 620. The lock 620 may be configured to lock the fixture 600 to the awning bracket 400 or the cover 700. The lock 620 may include a lock core 622. The lock core 622 may be rotatably held in a support portion 616. The engaging portion 624 of the lock core may engage with a receiving portion 480 formed in the lower portion of the awning bracket 400 (see Figure 24 ), or with a receiving portion 718 formed inside the cover 700 (seeFigure 28 ) Engagement depends on which of the latter is mounted on the carrier structure 500. In an alternative, the fixing device can additionally or alternatively be locked to the carrier structure by a lock. Thus, the fixing device 600 can be used as an anti-theft device that prevents unauthorized removal of the cover 700 or the awning bracket 400.

[0148] The fixing device 600 can further be configured to act as a blocking member for the operating part 434. The fixing device 600 can be configured to receive the operating part 434 of the locking mechanism of the awning bracket 400 and block its movement.

[0149] The fixing device 600 can be configured to be mountable on the awning bracket and the carrier structure 500 only when the engaging part 436 of the awning bracket 400 is correctly engaged with the carrier structure 500. Thus, the fixing device 600 can be used as an indicator that indicates to the user whether the awning bracket 400 is correctly installed.

[0150] The fixing device 600 can include an opening 630 for receiving a part of the operating part 434. The opening 630 can be provided in the lower part 602 of the fixing device 600 on the opposite side of the lock 620. The opening 630 is constructed and arranged such that the operating part 434 can be received in the opening 630 only when the operating part 434 is in the blocking position and / or such that the wall part defining the opening 630 blocks the movement of the operating part 434 towards the release position.

[0151] Generally, different types of awnings are known. For example, in some awning types, winding and unwinding the fabric 104 can be performed by grasping the roller tube including the fabric and rotating the roller tube by hand to unwind the fabric. In this configuration, the roller tube with the wound fabric is taken out from the covering 102, for example a bag, by hand, and the fabric is unwound by rotating the roller tube step by step by hand while holding the roller tube in the hand. On the other hand, the awning layout structure can be configured as a crank-operable awning layout structure as shown, where the roller tube is rotatably supported in the covering 102, particularly on the housing, for example rotatably supported between the side end parts 106, 108 of the covering. Moreover, it is possible that the covering is provided by a flexible bag and the roller tube is rotatably held in the bag between two mounting brackets that can be coupled to the carrier unit. The awning bracket 400 can be used with all types of awnings, including the awnings described above. Figure 1 shown, where the roller tube is rotatably supported in the covering 102, particularly on the housing, for example rotatably supported between the side end parts 106, 108 of the covering. Moreover, it is possible that the covering is provided by a flexible bag and the roller tube is rotatably held in the bag between two mounting brackets that can be coupled to the carrier unit. The awning bracket 400 can be used with all types of awnings, including the awnings described above.

[0152] In some embodiments, the load-bearing structure 500 is formed by shaping a metal sheet. The metal sheet shaping process can be a process in which the metal sheet 501 is shaped in at least two different steps, in particular using two different dies. The first die can be configured to form the insertion section 510 and the second die can be configured to form the fixing section 502. In some embodiments, a method of manufacturing a load-bearing structure for different vehicle types may include the step of forming the insertion section 510 and the fixing section 502 on all metal sheet base components according to a specific vehicle type. In this way, only different smaller dies or punches are required to form the fixing section 502 for different vehicle types. In this way, the manufacturing cost is significantly reduced due to the smaller dies or punches compared to dies or punches that form the insertion section and the fixing section simultaneously. The metal sheet 501 can be made of high-strength low-alloy steel. Figures 35 to 37 An exemplary manufacturing process is shown in. In the first step, as Figure 35 best seen in, a metal sheet 501 having a basic shape is provided, the basic shape having a section that will be deformed into the insertion section 510 and a section that will be deformed into the fixing section 502. This can be done by cutting the metal sheet. In addition, openings 506, 508 are provided in the metal sheet, for example by stamping. The engagement grooves 516 can also be provided, for example by cutting or stamping. In the second step, the metal sheet is placed in the first die and deformed to produce the insertion section 510, as Figure 36as best seen in. In this step, the insertion section 510 can also be deformed to produce a reinforcement section 517, thereby providing stiffness in the insertion section 510. The reinforcement section 517 can be formed by forming a channel-shaped depression in the insertion section 510, for example, by stamping. The reinforcement section 517 can be formed to integrally produce a wedge-shaped appearance or a wedge-shaped portion in the insertion section, or the insertion section 510 can at least partially have the function of the wedge-shaped portion as described above. In another step, the fixing section 502 is formed. For this purpose, depending on the fixing points and / or vehicle type, the metal sheet 501 including the partial deformation of the insertion section 510 is transferred to another tool or die or stamper for producing the fixing section 502. It should be noted that in the modified manufacturing process, the vehicle-side portion and the awning-side portion of the load-bearing structure 500 can be formed as separate components and joined together to form the load-bearing structure 500. Thus, a load-bearing structure 500 can be provided in which the insertion section 510 and the vehicle-specific fixing section 502 are independently formed in separate dies or stampers and then joined together according to the needs of a specific vehicle type. The separate components can be joined to each other by chemical reaction or thermal effect, for example, by welding. However, the separate components can also be mechanically joined together. When the load-bearing structure 500 is formed from a single metal sheet, the manufacturing process or method can in some cases involve only a bending machine for producing the overall appearance of the different sections of the load-bearing structure and a press for producing reinforcing ribs on the metal sheet.

[0153] In one variant, the awning bracket 400 can include a different configuration while the overall function is similar to the above-described configuration of the awning bracket 400. The main difference lies in that the locking mechanism establishes and releases the lock between the awning bracket and the load-bearing structure. Similarly, the locking mechanism includes an engaging portion 436 that can move between a locked position and an unlocked position. In this variant, the engaging portion 436 is linearly guided, for example, in one or more slots 417, 459. In addition, the engaging portion 436 can be coupled, by means of a force transmission portion 437 such as a rod, to an operable lever 434 that can pivot. The engaging portion 436 and the rod can be integrally formed or coupled to each other to form an integral unit. For example, the force transmission portion 437 and the engaging portion 436 can be provided on a single component that is a forgeable member. The operating portion 434 can be a part of a lever that is hingedly held in the longitudinal end portion of the awning bracket 400. The operating portion 434 can be a handle. The operating portion 434 or the handle can be entirely provided on the outside of the awning bracket 400. The operating portion 434 can be hingedly coupled to a holding structure 451, for example, to a part of the holding structure 451 that protrudes from the space between the housing portion 458 and the awning support portion 404.

[0154] The blocking member 472 and the force transmission part 437 can be hingedly coupled to the operating part 434, which is capable of pivoting about the same axis that can be defined by the coupling member 475. The engaging part 436 can be biased by the pushing member 440 towards the locking position. Thus, the disengagement of the engaging part 436 can be achieved against the driving force applied by the pushing member 440. The pushing member 440 can be a compression spring. The pushing member 440 can be arranged around or on the outer periphery of the force transmission member 437. The force transmission member 437 can extend through the pushing member 440. One end portion of the pushing member 440 can be supported on the force transmission member 437 or the engaging part 436, and the other end of the pushing member 440 can be supported on the holding structure 451 and / or the awning support part 404 and / or the housing part 458.

[0155] As an alternative to the fixing device 600, the awning bracket 400 can include a configuration in which the movement of the operating part 434 towards the unlocking position is blocked by an integrated mechanism. The awning bracket 400 can be configured such that when the operating part 434 is positioned in the locking position, the movement of the operating part 434 towards the unlocking position is automatically blocked. The awning bracket 400 can include a blocking member 472 for blocking the movement of the operating part 434 towards the unlocking position. For example, the blocking member 472 can include a biased latch lever that is biased towards the engaging position and automatically engages with the locking groove 474. The blocking member 472 can be provided on or operatively coupled to the operating part 434. The locking groove 474 can be provided in the housing part 458 or in the holding structure 451 that is formed between the housing 458 and the awning support part 404 of the awning bracket 400. The blocking member 472 can include a locking section 476 and an operating section 478. The locking section 476 and the operating section 478 can be integrally formed, for example, by die casting. The blocking member 472 can be pivotally coupled to the operating part 434, for example, such that the pivot axis of the blocking member 472 and the pivot axis of the operating part 434 extend parallel to each other. The blocking member 472 can be a lever. The locking member 472 can move between a locking position and an unlocking position. A configuration can be provided in which the movement of the blocking member 472 can be blocked. For example, a key-operable lock can be provided. The lock can include, for example, a lock core 494 that can be operated by a key 495. The lock core can be provided in the operating part 434. The end portion 496 of the lock core 494 can be shaped such that when the lock core is positioned in the locking position, it is at least partially positioned in the movement path of the blocking member, and when the lock core is positioned in the unlocking position, it is positioned such that the blocking member can pass by the end portion.

[0156] In Figures 29 to 33 In a variant of the awning support 400 shown, the covering section 461 may cover the outer side of the housing part 458. The covering section 461 may be removably mountable on the housing part 458 by snap-fit connection. The covering section 461 may be configured to hide any openings or fastening members provided in or coupled to the housing part 458 to prevent dust from reaching the interior of the awning support 400 and to create a visually appealing outer surface on the awning support 400.

[0157] The awning support 400 may include an intermediate structure 453 provided between the housing part 458 and the awning support part 404. The intermediate structure 455 may include a wedge part 460. The intermediate structure 453 may be sandwiched between the housing part 458 and the awning support part 404. The intermediate structure 453

[0158] As previously mentioned, the fixing section 502 may include an opening 506 for receiving a fixing member 507 (e.g., a screw), a fixing point for fixedly coupling the load-bearing structure 500 to the vehicle 2, in particular to a fixing point provided on the roof 3 of the vehicle. The opening 506 may be configured to be larger than the diameter of the fixing member 507 to be received therein to provide some clearance for correctly positioning the load-bearing structure 500 on the vehicle 2. For example, the opening 506 may be configured to

[0159] The fixing point may be a reinforced part on the vehicle 2. For example, the fixing point 31 may be provided in a support section of the liftable roof of a camping vehicle. The support section of the liftable roof may be a frame fixed to the roof 3.

[0160] Therefore, the existing fixing points on the roof 3 can be used to fix the load-bearing structure 500 on the roof 3. The fixing point 31 may be vehicle-specific and vary with the vehicle manufacturer. The fixing section 502 may be adapted to one of the specific fixing points, while the insertion section 510 is the same for all vehicle types.

[0161] As Figure 34 shown, another fixing section 504 may be configured to be coupled to a rain gutter rail 32 provided on the lateral side of the roof 3. With this arrangement, the force can be distributed to the side of the vehicle. The rain gutter rail 32 may include a duct groove 33 for receiving a duct of an accessory, or may include another fixing device for mounting an accessory to the roof. The rain gutter rail 32 may include a track 34 for receiving a fixing member 35. The track 34 may be a T-shaped track. The fixing member 35 may be a T-bolt that can be inserted into the track 34 and fixed to the load-bearing structure 50 by a nut 36.

[0162] In some configurations, the awning support 400 may include a pushing portion 482 configured to apply a pushing force on the lateral sides of the received insertion section 510, such that in particular a force is applied to the insertion section 510 in a direction away from the housing section 458. In this way, the insertion section 510 may be pushed towards and / or against the awning support portion to remove a gap. The pushing portion 482 may be provided in or on the retaining structure 451. The pushing portion 482 may be provided between the housing section 458 and the awning support portion 404. The pushing portion 482 may be an integral part of the retaining structure 451. The pushing portion may be biased in a direction away from the housing section 458 by means of a spring (not shown).

[0163] Reference will be made to Figures 41 to 44 describe a cover arrangement structure 900 according to one embodiment. Figure 41 A configuration is shown in which the cover arrangement structure 900 is mounted on the carrier structure 500. The cover arrangement structure 900 includes a front cover portion 902 and a rear cover portion 910. The front cover portion 902 is configured to cover the outer side of the insertion section 510 of the carrier structure 500. The rear cover portion 910 is configured to cover the inner side or the rear side of the insertion section 510 of the carrier structure 500. The rear side of the insertion section 510 is the side facing the vehicle when the carrier structure 500 is mounted on the vehicle.

[0164] The rear cover portion 910 includes a plurality of engaging portions 940, 942, 944 that allow the rear cover portion 910 to be fixedly attached to the insertion section 510. In this embodiment, the rear cover portion 910 is configured to snap onto the insertion section 510. The engaging portions 940, 942, 944 may be configured as latching levers. The engaging portions 940, 942, 944 may project from the body of the rear cover portion 910 and may be configured to engage the edge portions of the insertion section 510 on different sides of the insertion section 510. The engaging portions may be configured as hooks. The rear cover portion 110 also includes a support portion 950 for supporting the rear cover portion 910 on the rear side surface of the insertion section 510. The engaging portions 940, 942, 944 may be configured such that when the support portion 950 contacts the rear side surface of the insertion section 510, the engaging portions 940, 942, 944 engage the insertion section 510. Thus, the rear cover portion 910 is configured to snap into place on or hook onto the insertion section 510. When mounting the cover arrangement structure 900 on the insertion section 510, engaging the rear cover portion 910 with the insertion section 510 may be the first step. The rear cover portion 910 may also include positioning portions 920, 930 configured to be received in engaging grooves on the insertion section 510, such as in the engaging groove 516 configured to receive the engaging portion 436 or in another engaging groove 528 specifically provided for receiving the positioning portions.

[0165] The rear cover portion 910 may also include attachment portions 912, 916, 918 that are configured to be engaged by portions of the front cover portion 902. The attachment portions 912, 916, 918 may be configured as latch receiving portions that will engage with latch portions 904, 906, 908 (e.g., latches 904, 906, 908) formed on the front cover portion 902. Thus, the rear cover portion 910 may be indirectly engaged via the rear cover portion 910 and the insertion section 510. Stated another way, in one configuration, the rear cover portion 910 is engaged with the insertion section 510 and the front cover portion 902 is only engaged with the rear cover portion 910. The rear cover portion 910 may include a recess 914 that allows a user to access a free end portion of at least one of the latch portions 904, 906, 908, such as the upper latch 904 of the front cover portion 902, for disengagement purposes.

[0166] Reference will be made to Figure 45 and Figure 46Describe another load-bearing structure 500 according to an embodiment. The load-bearing structure 500 is different from other load-bearing structures described in this specification in that a plurality of reinforcement sections 530, 532, 534 are provided. Each reinforcement section 530, 532, 534 extends above a bend line between adjacent surface portions of the load-bearing structure 500. Each reinforcement section 530, 532, 534 may be a continuous section. For example, each reinforcement section 530, 532, 534 extends above a first bend line or a bending section between the insertion section 510 and the connection section 542, and the connection section connects the insertion section 510 to a vehicle-side load-bearing structure portion including the fixed section 502 or another fixed section 504. In this embodiment, three reinforcement sections 530, 532, 534 are provided. The middle reinforcement section 532 may be configured to be wider than the adjacent outer reinforcement sections 530, 534. The middle reinforcement section 532 may be configured to extend from the insertion section 510 above the first bend line or the first bending portion 540 into the connection section 542. The middle reinforcement section 532 may start in the insertion section 510 and end in the connection section 542. The outer reinforcement sections 530, 534 may start in the insertion section 510 and may extend completely through the connection section 542 into the vehicle-side load-bearing structure portion. For example, the outer reinforcement sections 530, 534 may extend into the fixed section 504. The fixed section 504 may be a part of the vehicle-side load-bearing structure portion in which an opening 508 is provided. The fixed section 504 may be one of two or more fixed sections 502, 504 provided in the vehicle-side load-bearing structure portion. During their extension, the outer reinforcement sections 530, 534 may extend above the first bend line or the first bending section 540 between the insertion section 510 and the connection section 542 and above the second bend line or the second bending section 544 between the connection section 542 and the fixed section 504. The middle reinforcement section 532 and one of the outer reinforcement sections may start from substantially the same position in the height direction of the insertion section 510. The outer reinforcement sections 530, 534 may start at different height positions on the insertion section 510. The outer reinforcement sections 530, 534 may terminate at substantially the same position. The insertion section 510, the connection section 542, and at least a part of the vehicle-side load-bearing structure portion (e.g., the fixed section 504) define corresponding surface portions, and these reinforcement sections extend above or in these surface portions. The reinforcement sections are provided as embossments in the metal sheet, for example, by stamping. The metal sheet may be a stainless steel metal sheet.

[0167] In summary, it is noted that terms such as "comprising" and the like are not intended to exclude the provision of additional elements or steps. It should also be noted that "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. In addition, the features described in conjunction with different embodiments may be combined with each other as desired. It should also be noted that the reference numerals in the claims should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the claims. In addition, although at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented in the foregoing overview and detailed description, it should be understood that there are a large number of variations.

[0168] It should also be understood that one or more exemplary embodiments are only examples and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability or configuration in any way. On the contrary, the foregoing overview and detailed description will provide those skilled in the art with a convenient road map for implementing the exemplary embodiments, and it should be understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of the elements described in the exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope set forth in the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

[0169] Aspect

[0170] In the following, in addition to the subject matter of claim 1 and the dependent claims, and in addition to the explanations and configurations given in the introduction to this specification, different configurations and / or different aspects are represented in a sub-item structure. It should be noted that the following specific feature combinations are not intended to limit the present disclosure to such specific feature combinations. In contrast, the following feature combinations only provide different examples with improved capabilities. Features and embodiments as defined in the sub-item configurations can be combined with other features and embodiments of other sub-item configurations, as well as with one or more feature combinations of the configurations described in the overview and detailed description sections.

[0171] Awnings with storage capabilities

[0172] 1. A canopy (100), comprising:

[0173] an elongated covering (102), such as a housing or a bag;

[0174] a rotatable drum tube (120) for winding and unwinding the awning fabric (104),

[0175] wherein the roller tube (120) is arranged in the cover, for example rotatably held in the cover (102),

[0176] The canopy (100) is configured to at least partially accommodate accessories, such as a crank (200) or a tensioning rod, on or in the covering (102) for storage purposes when the accessories are not in use.

[0177] 2. The awning (100) according to item 1, further comprising a receiving portion configured to at least partially receive the accessory therein.

[0178] 3. The awning (100) according to item 2, wherein the receiving portion is accessible from a longitudinal end side of the awning (100).

[0179] 4. The awning (100) according to item 3, wherein the receiving portion is configured to be accessible through a longitudinal end portion (106) of a covering of the awning (100), for example through an end cap (112) of the covering (102), wherein the longitudinal end portion (106) of the covering may include an opening (119) that allows the accessory to enter the receiving portion through the longitudinal end portion (106) of the covering.

[0180] 5. The awning (100) according to item 4,

[0181] wherein the receiving portion is provided by the roller tube (120),

[0182] wherein the roller tube (120) may include an internal space (121) having dimensions that allow the accessory to be received partially or fully within the awning (100)

[0183] therein,

[0184] wherein the opening (119) may be at least partially formed in a bearing portion (118) that is coupled to an end portion of the roller tube (120) and is configured to rotatably support the roller tube (120) at the longitudinal end portion (106), for example the longitudinal end portion (106) of the covering

[0185] (106),

[0186] wherein the receiving portion may be provided with an elastic material or a damping material on an inner wall that confines the receiving portion, and / or

[0187] wherein the receiving portion may be provided in the roller tube (120) such that an inserted accessory may rotate together with the roller tube (120).

[0188] 6. The awning (100) according to one of items 4 and 5, further comprising:

[0189] a locking arrangement (139) for releasably locking the accessory to the awning (100),

[0190] The locking arrangement structure (139) may include a lock (144) operable by a key and / or may include a locking member (136) capable of engaging with an engagement portion (244) on the attachment (200), for example capable of automatically engaging with the engagement portion (244).

[0191] The locking member (136) may be a rotating member and may include an engagement section (137) capable of engaging with the engagement portion (244).

[0192] The locking member (136) may be pivotable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The locking member (136) may be biased towards the locked position by a biasing member (134), such as a spring, and may be manually moved by a user against the biasing force exerted by the biasing member (134) on the locking member (136) to the unlocked position.

[0193] The lock (144) may include a lock core (145) and may be capable of transitioning between a locked state and an unlocked state, for example capable of rotating between the locked state and the unlocked state. In the locked state, the lock (144) blocks the movement of the locking member (136) towards the unlocked position. In the unlocked state, the locking member (136) may be moved to the unlocked position, or

[0194] The awning further includes an engagement portion (123) configured to cooperate with a lock (266) operable with a key and provided on the attachment, for example provided in an end member (260) of a crank (200). The engagement portion (123) may be provided on the bearing portion (118), for example integrally formed with the bearing portion (118). The lock (266) may include a lock core (268) rotatable about a lock core axis between a locked position and an unlocked position. When the end member (260) is in a received position on the bearing portion (118), the lock core axis may extend parallel to the main extension direction of the roller tube (120). The lock core (268) may include a terminal portion configured to engage with the engagement portion (123). The engagement portion (123) may include an insertion opening (111) formed in the bearing portion (118), and / or

[0195] The awning further includes a covering member (152) for covering an end member (260) disposed on a longitudinal end portion (106) of the covering or on the end cap (112), wherein the covering member (152) can be configured to be slidably engageable with the longitudinal end portion (106) of the covering or with the end cap (112), and wherein the covering member (152) can be configured such that it can be correctly mounted on the longitudinal end portion (106) of the covering or on the end cap (112) only when the attachment, such as the crank (200), is correctly received in the awning, for example when the end member

[0196] (260) is introduced far enough into the insertion opening (119) and the roller tube (120), and wherein the covering member (152) can be configured to be slidable onto the end cap (112) in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the awning and the roller tube, and wherein the end cap (112) can include a guiding groove (113) for receiving a protrusion formed in the covering member (152).

[0197] 7. The awning (100) according to one of items 4 and 5, the awning further comprising:

[0198] A biasing mechanism (128, 130) configured to apply a biasing force on the received attachment in the removal direction of the received attachment,

[0199] wherein the biasing mechanism (128, 130) can include a force-applying member (130) such as a ring that abuts against one or more pushing members (128) such as springs and is configured to contact a force-receiving portion on the attachment (200) such as the inner surface (239) of the end member (236), and is moved to compress the one or more pushing members (128) when inserting the attachment into the receiving portion. Awning attachments / cranks that can be stored in the awning

[0200] 8. An awning attachment (200), in particular a crank (200) for operating an awning (100), such as an attachment configured to be receivable on or in an awning (100) according to one of the foregoing items, wherein the attachment (200) includes:

[0201] A rigid force transmission structure, wherein the rigid force transmission structure can include one or more rod portions (216, 218, 220), such as a first rod portion arranged in series in this order

[0202] (216), a second rod portion (218), and a third rod portion (220).

[0203] At least one spacer (210, 212, 232, 240), the at least one spacer being configured to locally enlarge an outer peripheral dimension of the rigid force transfer structure so as to provide a predetermined support surface on the rigid force transfer structure at a predetermined distance from the rigid force transfer structure,

[0204] wherein each spacer (210, 212, 232, 240) is made of an elastic material.

[0205] 9. The awning attachment (200) according to item 8, wherein at least one spacer (210,

[0206] 212, 232) is formed as a sleeve and / or a ring and / or includes a foam material.

[0207] 10. The awning attachment (200) according to one of items 8 and 9, the awning attachment including at least two of the spacers (210, 212, 232), wherein at least two or all of the spacers may include the same outer diameter, and wherein the outer diameter may correspond to a maximum diameter that allows the spacers to be inserted into and received in the awning (100), for example in the roller tube (120) of the awning (100).

[0208] 11. The awning attachment according to one of items 8 to 10, wherein the awning attachment is a crank (200) for operating the awning (100), the crank (200) including:

[0209] a front end portion (202) configured to be coupled to an interface portion (116) of the awning (100);

[0210] a rear end portion (204) configured to be grasped by a user to perform a crank rotation movement for generating a rotational force,

[0211] wherein the rear end portion (204) includes a crank handle portion (206) having a first gripping portion (210) disposed, for example, on the first rod portion (216) and a second gripping portion (212) disposed, for example, on the third rod portion (220), and wherein at least one of the first gripping portion (210) and the second gripping portion (212) is formed by or includes the spacer.

[0212] 12. The awning attachment according to item 11, wherein the crank handle portion (206) is convertible between a use state and a non-use state, wherein in the use state, the first gripping portion (210) and the second gripping portion (212) are configured for crank rotation operation, and wherein in the non-use state, the first gripping portion (210) and the second gripping portion (212) are arranged coaxially.

[0213] 13. The awning attachment according to item 12, the awning attachment further comprising an end member (226) coupled to the rear end of the rear end portion (204), the end member (226)

[0214] is preferably configured to lock the awning attachment in the receiving portion, for example by means of a lock (266) and / or threaded engagement, and / or may be provided with gripping portions (228, 264), the gripping portions allowing a pulling force to be applied to the awning attachment to remove the awning attachment from the receiving portion, and / or a rotational force to be applied to threadedly engage or disengage the end member (226) in or from the end cap (112) or longitudinal end portion of the awning, for example in the longitudinal end portion (106) of the awning covering.

[0215] Awning layout structures with awnings and attachments

[0216] 14. An awning arrangement structure (1), the awning arrangement structure comprising an awning (100) according to items 1 to 7 and an awning attachment according to one of items 8 to 13.

[0217] Awning brackets

[0218] 15. An awning bracket (400), the awning bracket for coupling an awning (100) to a load-bearing structure (500), in particular to a mounting bracket (500) that can be mounted on a load-bearing unit such as a vehicle,

[0219] wherein the awning bracket (400) is configured to be mountable on the awning (100), for example on the rear side, lower side or top side of the awning (100), and between the end portions (106, 108) of the awning (100), in particular at a position between the longitudinal end portions of the awning (100), for example between the longitudinal end portions of the awning covering of the awning (100), or on the longitudinal end portions of the awning (100),

[0220] Wherein the awning support (400) is configured to establish and release a lock between the awning support (400) and the load-bearing structure (500) by means of an integral part of the awning support (400) that engages and disengages from the load-bearing structure (500).

[0221] 16. The awning support (400) according to item 15,

[0222] wherein the awning support (400) is configured to be removably coupled above the load-bearing structure (500), and / or

[0223] wherein the awning support (400) is configured to be inserted onto the load-bearing structure (500) only by means of a pure translational movement of the awning support (400) relative to the load-bearing structure (500) and / or in the direction of gravity.

[0224] Automatic / spring-biased locking

[0225] 17. The awning support (400) according to one of items 15 and 16,

[0226] wherein the awning support (400) is configured to automatically establish a lock between the awning support (400)

[0227] and the load-bearing structure so as to block movement of the awning support (400) relative to the load-bearing structure (500) in the disengagement direction,

[0228] wherein the lock can be automatically achieved when the awning support (400) is inserted onto the load-bearing structure (500) when the awning support (400) is moved a predetermined distance onto the load-bearing structure (500) in an insertion direction opposite to the disengagement direction.

[0229] 18. The awning support (400) according to one of items 15 to 17, the awning support further comprising:

[0230] a locking mechanism including an engaging portion (436) movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, for example, movable in the longitudinal direction of the awning support (400), for example, pivotally movable about a pivot axis defined by a pivot pin (446)

[0231] pivotally movable

[0232] wherein the locked position is a position where the engaging portion (436) engages the load-bearing structure (500), and the unlocked position is a position where the engaging portion (436)

[0233] is disengaged from the load-bearing structure (500),

[0234] The engaging portion (436) can be biased towards the locking position by means of a pushing member (440), such as a spring (441).

[0235] 19. The awning support (400) according to item 18, wherein the engaging portion (436)

[0236] can be configured to be pivotally movable about a pivot axis defined by a pivot pin (452), wherein the pivot axis can extend in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the awning support (400), or wherein the engaging portion (436) can be linearly guided, for example, in one or more slots (417, 459) and / or in the longitudinal direction of the awning support (400).

[0237] 20. The awning support (400) according to one of claims 18 and 19,

[0238] wherein the locking mechanism further includes an operating portion (434) operatively coupled to the engaging portion (436) for moving the engaging portion (436) between the locking position and the unlocking position by operation of the user on the operating portion (434), and / or

[0239] wherein the operating portion (434) is movable between a blocking position and a release position, wherein in the blocking position, the engaging portion (436) is in the locking position, and wherein in the release position, the engaging portion (436) is in the unlocking position, and / or

[0240] wherein the operating portion (434) and the engaging portion (436) can be integrally formed in a single member, such as a lever (432), and / or

[0241] wherein the operating portion (434) can project from the awning support (400), for example, from the lower side of the awning support (400), in particular such that the user can reach the operating portion (434) with a hand, or

[0242] wherein the operating portion (434) and the engaging portion (436) are formed as separate components that are force-transmissively coupled to each other by a force transmission portion (437), such as a rod, wherein the engaging portion (436) and the force transmission portion (437) can be integrally formed by forging, wherein the operating portion (437) can be provided in the longitudinal end portion of the awning support (400) and / or on the outer side of the awning support (400), and wherein a blocking member (472) can be provided, wherein the blocking member (472)

[0243] capable of being configured to block the movement of the operating part (434) towards the unlocking position, wherein the blocking member (472) can include a latching section (476) and an operating section (478), wherein the latching section (476) can be configured to engage with a locking groove (474) in the awning support (400), wherein the blocking member (472)

[0244] and the force transmission part (437) can be hingedly coupled to the operating part (434), for example capable of pivoting about the same axis.

[0245] 21. The awning support (400) according to one of items 15 to 20, the awning support further comprising:

[0246] a guiding arrangement structure (450) for removing the gap between the awning support (400) and the bearing structure (500),

[0247] wherein the guiding arrangement structure (450) can include a wedge part (460), a guiding pin (452) and / or guiding surfaces (454, 456),

[0248] wherein the guiding arrangement structure (450) can include a pushing part (482) configured to apply a thrust force on the lateral side of the received insertion section (510), in particular such that the insertion section (510) is forced in the direction towards the awning support part (404).

[0249] Awnings with awning brackets on the rear side and between or on the side ends 22. An awning (100), for example an awning according to one of items 1 to 7, wherein the

[0250] awning (100) includes

[0251] an elongate covering (102), such as a housing or a bag, and

[0252] an awning support (400) according to one of items 15 to 21, the awning support being mounted on the awning (100) between the end parts (106, 108) of the awning (100), in particular at a position between the longitudinal end parts, such as the longitudinal end parts of the covering of the awning (100), or mounted on the

[0253] (100) longitudinal end parts (106, 108), and / or

[0254] wherein the elongate covering can include a fixing structure (103) for receiving the awning support in an offsettable manner, and wherein the fixing structure (103) can include, for example, a track formed in the covering (102) in a longitudinal direction, such as a T-shaped track.

[0255] Vehicle side brackets (load-bearing structures)

[0256] 23. A carrier structure (500) that can be mounted on a carrier unit, such as a vehicle, and is configured to receive an awning support (400), the carrier structure (500)

[0257] comprises

[0258] a fixing section (502) for fixedly coupling the carrier structure (500) to the carrier unit;

[0259] an insertion section (510) configured to be received in the awning support (400),

[0260] wherein the insertion section (510) is offset from the fixing section (502) in a first direction, such as a lateral direction, and extends in a second direction that intersects the first direction, such as an upward or vertical direction, and / or wherein the insertion section

[0261] (510) includes guiding features that include guiding surfaces (522, 524), guiding grooves (514), and / or wedge portions (518),

[0262] wherein the insertion section (510) includes the wedge portion (518) that is provided, for example, on the insertion section (510) on a side facing the fixing section (502), and / or

[0263] wherein the insertion section (510) and the fixing section (502) are configured such that when the fixing section (502) is mounted on the carrier unit, the insertion section (510) extends upward, such as generally vertically upward, and / or

[0264] wherein the insertion section (510) can be configured as a plate-like member that includes a longitudinal extension along the fixing section (502), and when the carrier structure

[0265] (500) is mounted on the carrier unit, the longitudinal extension is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the carrier unit, and / or

[0266] Wherein the insertion section (510) can include a mating groove (516) in a longitudinal end of the insertion section (510), the mating groove (516) extending into the insertion section (510) in a longitudinal direction of the insertion section (510), and / or

[0267] Wherein the load-bearing structure (500) includes a bent metal sheet.

[0268] Cover layout structure

[0269] 24. A fixing device (600), which is formed, for example, as a cover for fixing the awning bracket (400) or the cover (700) according to one of items

[0270] 15 to 21 on the load-bearing structure (500) according to item 23,

[0271] Wherein the fixing device (600) can be detachably coupled to the load-bearing structure (500) from below and can engage with the awning bracket (400) or the cover (700), such that the load-bearing structure (500) is at least partially disposed between the fixing device

[0272] (600) and the awning bracket (400) or the cover (700), and / or

[0273] or

[0274] Wherein the fixing device (600) can include a lock (620), the lock being configured to lock the fixing device (600) to the awning bracket (400) or the cover (700), and / or

[0275] Wherein the fixing device (600) can be configured to be operatively coupled to the awning bracket (400), such that movement of an engaging portion (436) of a locking mechanism of the awning bracket (400) towards an unlocking position is blocked, and / or

[0276] Wherein the fixing device (600) can be configured to accommodate an operating portion (434) of a locking mechanism of the awning bracket

[0277] (400), and / or

[0278] Wherein the fixing device (600) can be configured to be mounted on the awning bracket (400) and the load-bearing structure (500) only when an engaging portion (436) of the awning bracket

[0279] (400) is properly engaged with the load-bearing structure (500), and / or

[0280] wherein the fixing device (600) can include an opening (630) for receiving a part of the operating part

[0281] (434), wherein the opening (630) is configured and arranged such that the operating part (434) can be received in the opening (630) only when the operating part (434) is in the blocking position and / or such that the wall part defining the opening blocks the movement of the operating part (434) towards the release position.

[0282] Complete awning system

[0283] 25. A canopy system, the canopy system comprising

[0284] the canopy (100) according to item 8,

[0285] the load-bearing structure (500) according to item 23, and optionally

[0286] the fixing device (600) according to item 24.

[0287] Lockable awnings and awning components

[0288] 26. A canopy system, the canopy system comprising

[0289] a canopy (100), such as the canopy according to one of items 1 to 7,

[0290] an accessory lock (139, 266) for fixing an accessory (200), such as a crank (200) or a tension rod, to the canopy (100); and / or

[0291] a canopy lock (620) for fixing the canopy (100) to the load-bearing structure (500).

[0292] Method for manufacturing vehicle side brackets (load-bearing structures)

[0293] 27. A method for manufacturing a load-bearing structure (500) that can be installed on a load-bearing unit, such as a vehicle, and is configured to receive a canopy support (400), the method comprising the following steps:

[0294] Providing a metal sheet (501);

[0295] Optionally cutting and / or stamping the metal sheet (501);

[0296] Partially deform the metal sheet (501) to form a first awning side section of the load-bearing structure (500), such as a standardized insertion section (510) configured to be received in the awning bracket (400);

[0297] Deform a second part of the partially deformed metal sheet (501) to form a second section of the load-bearing structure (500) adapted for a vehicle, such as a fixing section (502) for fixedly connecting the load-bearing structure (500) to the load-bearing unit.

[0298] 28. A method for manufacturing a load-bearing structure (500) that can be mounted on a load-bearing unit, such as a vehicle, and is configured to receive an awning bracket (400), the method comprising the steps of:

[0299] Form a first section of the load-bearing structure (500), such as a standardized insertion section (510) configured to be received in the awning bracket (400);

[0300] Form a second section of the load-bearing structure (500) adapted for a vehicle, such as a fixing section (502) for fixedly connecting the load-bearing structure (500) to the load-bearing unit; and

[0301] Join the first section and the second section together to form the load-bearing structure (500), wherein the first section and the second section can be joined by chemical reaction or thermal effect, such as by welding.

[0302] Crank

[0303] 29. A crank (200) for operating an awning (100), such as a crank (200) configured to be stowable on or in an awning (100) according to one of items 1 to 7, wherein the crank (200) comprises:

[0304] A coupling part (230) configured to be coupled to an interface part (116) of the awning (100), wherein the interface part (116) may be configured to receive an operating force from the crank (200) and transmit the operating force to the drum tube (120);

[0305] A crank handle part (206) configured to be operated by a user; and

[0306] A key-operable lock (266) for locking the crank (200) to the awning (100).

[0307] 30. The crank (200) according to item 29, wherein the key-operable lock (266) is configured to engage with a bearing portion (118) coupled to a drum tube (120) such that when the crank (200) is locked to the bearing portion (118), the crank (200) can rotate with the drum tube (120) of the awning (100).

[0308] The crank (200) can rotate with the drum tube (120) of the awning (100).

[0309] 31. The crank (200) according to item 29, wherein the key-operable lock (266) is configured to engage with a longitudinal end portion (106) of the awning (20), such as with an end cap (112) or with a retainer (124), such that when the crank (200) is locked to the longitudinal end portion (106), the crank (200) remains stationary relative to the drum tube (120) and cannot rotate together with the drum tube (120) of the awning (100).

[0310] The crank (200) cannot rotate together with the drum tube (120) of the awning (100).

[0311] Vehicle side brackets (load-bearing structures)

[0312] 32. A load-bearing structure (500), the load-bearing structure comprising:

[0313] A fixed section (504) for fixedly coupling the load-bearing structure (500) to a vehicle; and

[0314] An insertion section (510) configured to be received in an awning bracket

[0315] (400),

[0316] wherein the insertion section (510) and the fixed section (504) are formed by forming a single metal sheet,

[0317] wherein during the process of the metal sheet from the insertion section (510) to the fixed section

[0318] (504), the load-bearing structure (500) includes three surface portions, wherein

[0319] The corresponding adjacent surface portions of the three surface portions are bent along corresponding bending lines or bending sections

[0320] (540, 544) at corresponding predetermined angles, and

[0321] wherein the load-bearing structure (500) further includes for increasing the load-bearing structure

[0322] At least one reinforcing section (530, 532, 534) of the stiffness of (500), wherein at least one reinforcing section (530, 532, 534) extends from the surface portion of the insertion section (510) and into at least one other surface portion.

[0323] 33. The load-bearing structure (500) according to item 32, wherein the load-bearing structure (500)

[0324] includes two of the reinforcing sections (530, 532, 534), wherein at least one reinforcing section (530, 534) extends over three surface portions and the second reinforcing section (532) extends over two surface portions.

[0325] 34. The load-bearing structure (500) according to item 33, wherein the reinforcing sections (530,

[0326] 532, 534) at least two of the reinforcing sections extend parallel to each other.

[0327] 35. The load-bearing structure (500) according to one of items 33 to 34, wherein at least two of the reinforcing sections (530, 534) have the same width.

[0328] 36. The load-bearing structure (500) according to one of items 32 to 35, wherein at least one

[0329] reinforcing section (530, 532, 534) is provided in the form of a rib in the metal sheet.

[0330] 37. The load-bearing structure (500) according to one of items 33 to 36, wherein the load-bearing structure (500) includes a connecting section (542) connecting the insertion section (510) and the fixing section (504), wherein the first surface portion is part of the insertion section

[0331] (510), the second surface portion is part of the connecting section (542), and the third surface portion is part of the fixing section (504).

[0332] Cover layout structure

[0333] 38. A cover arrangement structure (900) for covering a load-bearing structure (500), the cover arrangement structure having a front cover portion (902) and a rear cover portion (910), wherein the front cover portion (902) and the rear cover portion (910) are configured to be detachably mounted to each other by means of a snap button connection.

[0334] 39. The cover arrangement structure (900) according to item 38, wherein the first cover part of the cover parts (902,

[0335] 910), such as the rear cover part (910), is configured to snap onto the insertion section (510).

[0336] 40. The cover arrangement structure (900) according to item 39, wherein the first cover part includes at least one upper latch (944) for engaging with the upper edge part of the insertion section (510) and at least one lateral or side latch (940, 942), such as two lateral side latches, for engaging with the side edge part of the insertion section (510).

[0337] 41. The cover arrangement structure (900) according to item 40, wherein the first cover part (910) includes two or more latch receiving parts (912, 916, 918) provided on opposite side parts of the first cover part (910), such as provided on the lower part and the upper part of the first cover part (910).

[0338] 42. The cover arrangement structure (900) according to one of items 39 to 41, wherein the second cover part of the cover parts, such as the front cover part (902), is configured to snap onto the first cover part, such as onto the rear cover part (910), and the second cover part includes locking hooks (904, 906, 908) for engaging with the first cover part.

Claims

1. Awning support (400) for connecting an awning (100) to a load-bearing structure (500), in particular to a mounting bracket (500) that can be mounted on a load-bearing unit such as a vehicle. The awning support (400) is configured to be mountable on the awning (100), for example on the rear side, lower side or top side of the awning (100), and for example between the end portions (106, 108) of the awning (100), in particular at a position between the longitudinal end portions of the awning (100), for example between the longitudinal end portions of the covering of the awning (100), or on the longitudinal end portions (106, 108) of the awning (100). The awning support (400) is configured to establish and release a lock between the awning support (400) and the load-bearing structure by means of an integral part of the awning support (400) that engages and disengages from the load-bearing structure.

2. The awning support (400) according to claim 1, wherein the awning support is configured to be detachably connectable to the load-bearing structure (500) from above, and / or wherein the awning support (400) is configured to be inserted onto the load-bearing structure (500) only by means of a pure translational movement of the awning support (400) relative to the load-bearing structure (500) and / or in the direction of gravity.

3. The awning support (400) according to one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the awning support (400) is configured to automatically establish a lock between the awning support (400) and the load-bearing structure so as to block movement of the awning support (400) relative to the load-bearing structure (500) in the disengagement direction. The lock can be automatically achieved when the awning support (400) is inserted onto the load-bearing structure (500) when the awning support (400) is moved a predetermined distance onto the load-bearing structure (500) in the insertion direction opposite to the disengagement direction.

4. The awning support (400) according to one of claims 1 to 3, the awning support further comprising a locking mechanism including an engaging portion (436) movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, for example in the longitudinal direction of the awning support (400). The locked position is the position where the engaging portion (436) engages with the load-bearing structure (500), and the unlocked position is the position where the engaging portion (436) disengages from the load-bearing structure (500). The engaging portion (436) can be biased towards the locked position by means of a pushing member (440), such as a spring (441).

5. The awning support (400) according to claim 4, wherein the engaging portion (436) can be configured to be pivotally movable about a pivot axis defined by a pivot pin (446). wherein the pivot axis can extend in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the awning support (400), or wherein the engaging portion (436) can be linearly guided, for example, in one or more slots (417, 459) and / or in the longitudinal direction of the awning support (400).

6. The awning support (400) according to one of claims 4 and 5, wherein the locking mechanism further includes an operating portion (434) operatively coupled to the engaging portion (436) for moving the engaging portion (436) between the locked position and the unlocked position by an operation of the user on the operating portion (434), and / or wherein the operating portion (434) can move between a blocking position and a release position, wherein in the blocking position, the engaging portion (436) is in the locked position, and wherein in the release position, the engaging portion (436) is in the unlocked position, and / or wherein the operating portion (434) and the engaging portion (436) can be integrally formed in a single member such as a lever (432), and / or wherein the operating portion (434) can project from the awning support (400), for example, from the lower side of the awning support (400), particularly such that the user can reach the operating portion (434) with a hand, or wherein the operating portion (434) and the engaging portion (436) are formed as separate components force-transmissively coupled to each other by a force transmission portion (437) such as a rod, wherein the engaging portion (436) and the force transmission portion (437) can be integrally formed by forging, for example, wherein the operating portion (437) can be disposed in the longitudinal end portion of the awning support (400) and / or on the outer side of the awning support (400), wherein a blocking member (472) can be provided, wherein the blocking member (472) can be configured to block the movement of the operating portion (434) toward the unlocked position, wherein the blocking member (472) can include a locking section (476) and an operating section (478), wherein the locking section (476) can be configured to engage a locking groove (474) in the awning support (400), and wherein the blocking member (472) and the force transmission portion (437) can be hingedly coupled to the operating portion (434), for example, can pivot about the same axis.

7. The awning support (400) according to one of claims 1 to 6, the awning support further comprising a guiding arrangement structure (450) for removing a gap between the awning support (400) and the carrying structure (500), wherein the guiding arrangement structure (450) can include a wedge portion (460), a guiding pin (452), and / or guiding surfaces (454, 456). Alternatively, the guiding arrangement structure (450) can include a pushing portion (482) configured to apply a pushing force on the lateral sides of the received insertion section (510), in particular such that a force is applied to the insertion section (510) in a direction towards the awning support portion (404).

8. An awning (100), wherein the awning (100) includes an elongate covering, such as a housing (102) or a bag, and an awning support (400) according to one of claims 1 to 7, the awning support being mounted on the awning (100) between the end portions (106, 108) of the awning (100), in particular at a position between the longitudinal end portions, such as the longitudinal end portions of the covering of the awning (100), or on the longitudinal end portions, such as the longitudinal end portions of the covering of the awning (100), and / or wherein the elongate covering can include a fixing structure (103) for offsetably receiving the awning support, and wherein the fixing structure (103) can include, for example, a track formed in the covering (102) in the longitudinal direction, such as a T-shaped track.

9. A carrying structure (500) that can be mounted on a carrying unit, such as a vehicle, and is configured to receive an awning support (400), the carrying structure (500) including a fixing section (502) for fixedly coupling the carrying structure (500) to the carrying unit; an insertion section (510) configured to be received in the awning support (400), wherein the insertion section (510) is offset from the fixing section (502) in a first direction, such as a lateral direction, and extends in a second direction that intersects the first direction, such as an upward direction or a vertical direction, and / or wherein the insertion section (510) includes guiding features including guiding surfaces (522, 524), guiding grooves (514), and / or wedge portions (518), and / or wherein the insertion section (510) includes the wedge portion (518) provided, for example, on a side of the insertion section (510) facing the fixing section (502), and / or wherein the insertion section (510) and the fixing section (502) are configured such that the insertion section (510) extends upward, such as generally vertically upward, when the fixing section (502) is mounted on the carrying unit, and / or wherein the insertion section (510) can be configured as a plate-like member including a longitudinal extension along the fixing section (502), and when the carrying structure (500) is mounted on the carrying unit, the longitudinal extension is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the carrying unit, and / or wherein the insertion section (510) can include a mating recess (516) in a longitudinal end of the insertion section (510), the mating recess (516) extending into the insertion section (510) in a longitudinal direction of the insertion section (510), and / or wherein the carrier structure (500) includes a bent metal sheet.

10. A fixing device (600), such as formed as a cover, for fixing the awning bracket (400) or the cover (700) according to one of claims 1 to 6 on the carrier structure (500) according to claim 8, wherein the fixing device (600) can be detachably coupled to the carrier structure (500) from below and can engage with the awning bracket (400) or the cover (700) such that the carrier structure (500) is at least partially arranged between the fixing device (600) and the awning bracket (400) or the cover (700), and / or wherein the fixing device (600) can include a lock (620), the lock being configured to lock the fixing device (600) to the awning bracket (400) or the cover (700), and / or wherein the fixing device (600) can be configured to be operatively coupled to the awning bracket (400) such that movement of an engaging portion (436) of a locking mechanism of the awning bracket (400) towards an unlocking position is blocked, and / or wherein the fixing device (600) can be configured to accommodate an operating portion (434) of a locking mechanism of the awning bracket (400), and / or wherein the fixing device (600) can be configured to be mountable on the awning bracket (400) and the carrier structure (500) only when an engaging portion (436) of the awning bracket (400) is correctly engaged with the carrier structure (500), and / or wherein the fixing device (600) can include an opening (630) for receiving a part of the operating portion (434), wherein the opening (630) is configured and arranged such that the operating portion (434) can be received in the opening (630) only when the operating portion (434) is in the blocking position and / or such that a wall portion defining the opening blocks movement of the operating portion (434) towards a release position.

11. An awning system, the awning system comprising an awning (100), the carrier structure (500) according to claim 8, and optionally the fixing device (600) according to claim 9.

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