Method for controlling the operation of a motorised drive device, associated motorised drive device and concealment device

Abstract

A method for controlling the operation of a motorized drive device includes a measurement step (E30) of at least one open-circuit voltage value supplied by a photovoltaic panel. The method further includes a comparison step (E50), for each photovoltaic panel model in a predetermined list, of the measured open-circuit voltage value with at least a predetermined range of open-circuit voltage values ​​associated with that photovoltaic panel model. The method includes an identification step (E100), based on the result of the comparison step (E50), of the photovoltaic panel model from the predetermined list. Furthermore, the comparison (E50) and identification (E100) steps are implemented by an electronic control unit.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for controlling the operation of a motorized drive device.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a motorized drive device adapted to implement this control method in operation, as well as a blackout device comprising such a motorized drive device.

[0003] In general, the present invention relates to the field of blackout devices comprising a motorized drive device moving a screen, between at least a first position and at least a second position.

[0004] A motorized drive device includes an electromechanical actuator of a movable closing, obscuring or sun protection element, such as a shutter, a door, a grille, a blind or any other equivalent material, hereafter referred to as a screen.

[0005] We are already familiar with document WO 2012 / 059672 A2, which describes a method for controlling the operation of a motorized drive device. The motorized drive device comprises an electromechanical actuator, an electronic control unit, and an electrical power supply. The electromechanical actuator includes an electric motor. The electrical power supply includes a battery and a photovoltaic panel. The electronic control unit and the electric motor are powered by the battery. The battery is powered by the photovoltaic panel. The electronic control unit includes a microcontroller and a measuring device. The measuring device is configured to measure the open-circuit voltage supplied by the photovoltaic panel. The measuring device is electrically connected to the photovoltaic panel.The microcontroller includes an input port for reading the open-circuit voltage supplied by the photovoltaic panel and measured by the measuring device. Furthermore, the method includes a step for measuring the open-circuit voltage supplied by the photovoltaic panel.

[0006] However, this document WO 2012 / 059672 A2 is silent on the fact that the photovoltaic panel is part of a predetermined list of photovoltaic panel models, where the photovoltaic panel models respectively have different technical characteristics.

[0007] In the case of a shading system, a plurality of shading devices are arranged on the same facade of a building. Each of the shading devices is equipped with a motorized drive device, which may be, for example, of the same type as that in document WO 2012 / 059672 A2.

[0008] In such a case, for reasons of aesthetic harmony, the user wishes the same model of photovoltaic panel to be installed on each of the shading devices.

[0009] However, the screens of these blackout devices can have different dimensions and different weights.

[0010] Therefore, the motorized drive devices are also different, since the torque to be supplied by the electromechanical actuator to move the screen of each of the blackout devices is different.

[0011] One possible approach would be to electrically connect the most powerful photovoltaic panel, from the predetermined list of photovoltaic panel models, with the battery and electromechanical actuator of each of the motorized drive devices.

[0012] On the one hand, such an approach presents a problem in terms of compatibility of the voltage delivered by the photovoltaic panel to the battery.

[0013] On the other hand, this approach presents a problem for the execution of functions by the electronic control unit, since these functions require that the operating parameters stored by the electronic control unit be consistent between an electromechanical actuator model, a battery model, and a photovoltaic panel model. If the operating parameters stored by the electronic control unit are not consistent, in other words, are not appropriate, between the electromechanical actuator model, the battery model, and the photovoltaic panel model, the functions will fail or even be impossible to execute.

[0014] Therefore, to ensure the correct execution of functions by the electronic control unit, it is imperative that the operating parameters stored by the electronic control unit are those associated with an electromechanical actuator model, a battery model and a photovoltaic panel model.

[0015] Another possible approach would be to inhibit the functions as soon as the operating parameters stored by the electronic control unit are not consistent between the electromechanical actuator model, the battery model and the photovoltaic panel model, so as to prevent the electronic control unit from executing these functions.

[0016] According to this second approach, the user would be deprived of the functions available for motorized drive devices where the photovoltaic panel model would not be adapted to the battery model and the electromechanical actuator model.

[0017] The present invention aims to resolve the aforementioned drawbacks and to propose a method for controlling a motorized drive device in operation, a motorized drive device adapted to implement this control method in operation, and a shading device comprising such a motorized drive device, allowing verification of the operational compatibility of a photovoltaic panel model, from a predetermined list of photovoltaic panel models, with the other equipment of the motorized drive device.

[0018] In this regard, the present invention relates, according to a first aspect, to a method for controlling the operation of a motorized drive device, the motorized drive device comprising at least: an electromechanical actuator, an electronic control unit, and an electrical power supply device, the electromechanical actuator comprising at least one electric motor, the electrical power supply device comprising at least: a battery, the electronic control unit and the electric motor being powered by the battery, and a photovoltaic panel, the battery being powered by the photovoltaic panel, the electronic control unit comprising at least: a microcontroller, and a measuring device, the measuring device being configured to measure at least one open-circuit voltage value supplied by the photovoltaic panel, the measuring device being electrically connected to the photovoltaic panel,the microcontroller comprising at least one input port for reading the open-circuit voltage value supplied by the photovoltaic panel and measured by the measuring device, the method comprising: a first step of measuring at least one open-circuit voltage value supplied by the photovoltaic panel.

[0019] According to the invention, the photovoltaic panel is part of a predetermined list of several photovoltaic panel models.

[0020] The process also includes, at least: a comparison step, for each photovoltaic panel model, of the open-circuit voltage value measured during the first measurement step, with at least a predetermined range of open-circuit voltage values ​​associated with the photovoltaic panel model, and an identification step, based on the result of the comparison step, of the photovoltaic panel model from the predetermined list.

[0021] In addition, the comparison step and the identification step are implemented by the electronic control unit.

[0022] Thus, the process makes it possible to verify the operational compatibility of a photovoltaic panel model, from the predetermined list, with the other equipment of the motorized drive device.

[0023] In this way, identifying the photovoltaic panel model from the predetermined list makes it possible to avoid potential problems in terms of compatibility of the voltage delivered by the photovoltaic panel to the battery.

[0024] In addition, identifying the photovoltaic panel model from the predetermined list ensures that the electronic control unit performs its functions correctly.

[0025] Furthermore, the identification of the photovoltaic panel model, from the predetermined list, is implemented by measuring at least one open-circuit voltage value supplied by the photovoltaic panel, since this physical quantity is relatively stable with respect to lighting conditions during a day and with respect to temperature conditions for each photovoltaic panel model.

[0026] Therefore, provided that the predetermined ranges of open-circuit voltage values ​​associated respectively with the photovoltaic panel models are sufficiently spaced apart from each other, this measurement of at least one open-circuit voltage value supplied by the photovoltaic panel makes it possible to identify the photovoltaic panel model among the photovoltaic panel models belonging to the predetermined list, regardless of the value of the illumination level of the photovoltaic panel at the time of the measurement of the open-circuit voltage value supplied by the photovoltaic panel.

[0027] According to an advantageous feature of the invention, for each photovoltaic panel model, the step of comparing the measured open-circuit voltage value, during the first measurement step, is implemented with a single predetermined range of open-circuit voltage values ​​associated with the photovoltaic panel model.

[0028] According to another advantageous feature of the invention, for each photovoltaic panel model, the step of comparing the measured open-circuit voltage value, during the first measurement step, is implemented with a plurality of predetermined ranges of open-circuit voltage values ​​associated with the photovoltaic panel model, each predetermined range of open-circuit voltage values ​​also being associated with a predetermined range of values ​​of a photovoltaic panel illumination level.

[0029] According to another advantageous feature of the invention, the or each predetermined range of open-circuit voltage values ​​associated with the photovoltaic panel model is defined for a temperature value representative of the photovoltaic panel temperature.

[0030] According to another advantageous feature of the invention, the method further comprises, following the identification step, an activation step of functions implemented by the electronic control unit and associated with the photovoltaic panel model identified during the identification step.

[0031] According to another advantageous feature of the invention, the method is implemented during a commissioning phase of the motorized drive device.

[0032] According to another advantageous feature of the invention, the method is implemented periodically, either during a day of commissioning of the motorized drive device, or during the life of the motorized drive device.

[0033] The present invention relates, according to a second aspect, to a motorized drive device, the motorized drive device comprising at least: an electromechanical actuator, an electronic control unit, and an electrical power supply device, the electromechanical actuator comprising at least one electric motor, the electrical power supply device comprising at least: a battery, the electronic control unit and the electric motor being powered by the battery, and a photovoltaic panel, the battery being powered by the photovoltaic panel, the electronic control unit comprising at least: a microcontroller, and a measuring device, the measuring device being configured to measure at least one open-circuit voltage value supplied by the photovoltaic panel, the measuring device being electrically connected to the photovoltaic panel,The microcontroller includes at least one input port for reading the open-circuit voltage value supplied by the photovoltaic panel and measured by the measuring device.

[0034] According to the invention, the photovoltaic panel is one of several predetermined models of photovoltaic panels. Furthermore, the electronic control unit is configured to implement the method according to the invention and as mentioned above.

[0035] This motorized drive device has characteristics and advantages similar to those described previously in relation to the method according to the invention and as mentioned above.

[0036] According to a third aspect, the present invention relates to a concealment device comprising at least: a screen, and a motorized drive device.

[0037] According to the invention, the motorized drive device conforms to the invention and is as described above. The screen is configured to be driven in motion by the electromechanical actuator of the motorized drive device.

[0038] This obscuring device has characteristics and advantages similar to those described previously in relation to the method according to the invention and as mentioned above.

[0039] According to an advantageous feature of the invention, the shading device further comprises a winding tube. The screen can be rolled up onto the winding tube. Furthermore, the winding tube is arranged to be driven in rotation by the electromechanical actuator.

[0040] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent in the following description, made with reference to the attached drawings, given by way of non-limiting examples and in which: [ Fig 1 ] there figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a blackout installation according to an embodiment of the invention, the blackout installation comprising a blackout device and the blackout device comprising a motorized drive device; Fig 2 ] there figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of the blackout installation illustrated in the figure 1 ; Fig 3 ] there figure 3 is a schematic axial and partial cross-sectional view of the shading installation illustrated in figures 1 And 2 showing an electromechanical actuator of the motorized drive device; [ Fig 4 ] there figure 4 is a schematic view illustrating part of an electrical diagram of the motorized drive device, shown in figures 1 à 3 ; Fig 5 ] there figure 5 is a block diagram of an algorithm for a process, according to an embodiment of the invention, for controlling the operation of the motorized drive device illustrated in figures 1 à 3 ; And [ Fig 6 ] there figure 6 is a graph illustrating current versus voltage curves for two photovoltaic panel models and for different illumination level values ​​of the two photovoltaic panel models.

[0041] First, we describe, with reference to figures 1 And 2 , a blackout installation 100 according to an embodiment of the invention. This blackout installation 100 comprises at least one blackout device 3. This blackout installation 100, installed in a building, not shown, has at least one opening 1, in which is placed a window 40 or a door, which is shown only in the figure 1 This shading installation 100 is equipped with at least one screen 2 belonging to the shading device 3, in particular a motorized roller shutter. The screen 2 of the shading device 3 serves to more or less obscure the opening 1.

[0042] A shutter installation and a sun protection installation are examples of shading installations. Similarly, a shutter device and a sun protection device are examples of shading devices.

[0043] The installation of closure, shading or sun protection is subsequently referred to as "shading installation" 100.

[0044] The closing, shading or sun protection device is hereafter referred to as the "shading device" 3. The shading device 3 includes the screen 2.

[0045] The shading device 3 can be a roller shutter, a fabric blind or a blind with adjustable slats, a rolling gate, a grille, a door, or a hinged shutter. The present invention applies to all types of shading devices.

[0046] We describe, with reference to figures 1 And 2 , a roller shutter conforming to the embodiment of the invention.

[0047] The shading device 3 includes a motorized drive device 5. The motorized drive device 5 includes an electromechanical actuator 11 illustrated in the figure 3 .

[0048] Advantageously, the shading device 3 further comprises a winding tube 4. The screen 2 is windable onto the winding tube 4. In addition, the winding tube 4 is arranged so as to be driven in rotation by the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0049] Thus, the screen 2 of the occultation device 3 is wound on the winding tube 4 or unwound around it, the winding tube 4 being driven by the motorized drive device 5, in particular by the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0050] In this way, screen 2 is mobile between a rolled-up position, particularly high, and an unrolled position, particularly low, and vice versa.

[0051] The screen 2 of the shading device 3 is a closing, shading and / or sun protection screen, rolling and unrolling around the winding tube 4, the inner diameter of which is greater than the outer diameter of the electromechanical actuator 11, so that the electromechanical actuator 11 can be inserted into the winding tube 4, when assembling the shading device 3.

[0052] The electromechanical actuator 11, in particular of tubular type, allows the winding tube 4 to be rotated around an axis of rotation X, so as to move, in particular unwind or wind, the screen 2 of the occulting device 3.

[0053] In an assembled state of the occulting device 3, the electromechanical actuator 11 is inserted into the winding tube 4.

[0054] As is known, the roller shutter, which forms the shading device 3, comprises a curtain with horizontal slats hinged to each other, forming the screen 2 of the roller shutter 3, and guided by two lateral tracks 6, shown only in the figure 2 These slats are joined when the curtain 2 of the roller shutter 3 reaches its fully extended lower position.

[0055] In the case of a roller shutter, the raised position corresponds to the end slat 8, for example L-shaped, of the roller shutter curtain 3 against an edge of the roller shutter housing 9, or to the end slat 8 stopping in a programmed upper limit position. Furthermore, the lowered position corresponds to the end slat 8 of the roller shutter curtain 3 against a threshold 7 of the opening 1, or to the end slat 8 stopping in a programmed lower limit position.

[0056] Here, the screen 2 is configured to be moved, by means of the motorized drive device 5, between an open position, corresponding to the rolled-up position and which can also be called the first end-of-stroke position or upper end-of-stroke position FdCH, and a closed position, corresponding to the unrolled position and which can also be called the second end-of-stroke position or lower end-of-stroke position FdCB.

[0057] Thus, the electromechanical actuator 11 is configured to drive, in other words drives, in movement the screen 2, between the first end position FdCH and the second end position FdCB, and vice versa.

[0058] The first slat of the roller shutter 3, opposite the final end slat 8, is connected to the winding tube 4 by means of at least one joint 10, in particular a band-shaped attachment piece.

[0059] The winding tube 4 is located inside the box 9 of the roller shutter 3. The curtain 2 of the roller shutter 3 winds and unwinds around the winding tube 4 and is housed at least partly inside the box 9.

[0060] Generally, the chest 9 is located above opening 1, or in the upper part of opening 1.

[0061] Advantageously, the motorized drive device 5 is controlled by a control unit. The control unit can be, for example, a local control unit 12 or a central control unit 13.

[0062] Advantageously, the local control unit 12 can be connected, via wired or wireless connection, to the central control unit 13.

[0063] Advantageously, the central control unit 13 can control the local control unit 12, as well as other similar local control units distributed throughout the building.

[0064] The motorized drive device 5 is preferably configured to execute the commands for unwinding or rolling up the screen 2 of the blackout device 3, which may be issued, in particular, by the local control unit 12 or the central control unit 13.

[0065] The blackout installation 100 comprises either the local control unit 12, or the central control unit 13, or the local control unit 12 and the central control unit 13.

[0066] We now describe, in more detail and with reference to the figure 3 , the motorized drive device 5, including the electromechanical actuator 11, belonging to the shading system 100 and, more particularly, to the shading device 3 illustrated in figures 1 And 2 .

[0067] The electromechanical actuator 11 includes an electric motor 16.

[0068] The electric motor 16 is represented by its casing at the figure 3 , without details on its internal constituent elements.

[0069] Advantageously, the electric motor 16 comprises a rotor and a stator, not shown and positioned coaxially around the axis of rotation X, which is also the axis of rotation of the winding tube 4 in the mounted configuration of the motorized drive device 5.

[0070] Here, the electric motor 16 can be of the electronically commutated brushless type, also called "BLDC" (acronym for the Anglo-Saxon term BrushLess Direct Current) or "permanent magnet synchronous", or of the direct current type.

[0071] Control means for the electromechanical actuator 11, enabling the movement of the screen 2 of the occulting device 3, include at least one electronic control unit 15. This electronic control unit 15 is capable of activating the electric motor 16 of the electromechanical actuator 11 and, in particular, enabling the supply of electrical energy to the electric motor 16.

[0072] Thus, the electronic control unit 15 controls, in particular, the electric motor 16, so as to open or close the screen 2, as described previously.

[0073] The control means for the electromechanical actuator 11 include hardware and / or software means.

[0074] As a non-limiting example, the material means may include at least one microcontroller 31.

[0075] Here, the motorized drive device 5 includes the electronic control unit 15. In addition, the electronic control unit 15 includes the microcontroller 31.

[0076] Advantageously, the electronic control unit 15 further includes a first communication module 27, in particular for receiving control orders, the control orders being issued by an order transmitter, such as the local control unit 12 or the central control unit 13, these orders being intended to control the motorized drive device 5.

[0077] Advantageously, the first communication module 27 of the electronic control unit 15 is wireless. In particular, the first communication module 27 is configured to receive radio control commands.

[0078] Advantageously, the first communication module 27 can also allow the reception of command orders transmitted by wired means.

[0079] Advantageously, the electronic control unit 15, the local control unit 12 and / or the central control unit 13 can be in communication with a weather station, not shown, located inside the building or outside the building, including, in particular, one or more sensors that can be configured to determine, for example, a temperature, a brightness, or a wind speed, in the case where the weather station is located outside the building.

[0080] Advantageously, the electronic control unit 15, the local control unit 12 and / or the central control unit 13 can also communicate with a server 28, as illustrated in the figure 2 , so as to control the electromechanical actuator 11 according to data made available remotely via a communication network, in particular an internet network that can be connected to the server 28.

[0081] The electronic control unit 15 can be operated from the local control unit 12 and / or the central control unit 13. The local control unit 12 and / or the central control unit 13 is equipped with a control keypad. The control keypad of the local control unit 12 or the central control unit 13 includes one or more selection elements 14 and, optionally, one or more display elements 34.

[0082] By way of non-limiting examples, selection elements may include push buttons and / or touch-sensitive keys. Display elements may include light-emitting diodes and / or a display, for example LCD (acronym for "Liquid Crystal Display") or TFT (acronym for the Anglo-Saxon term "Thin Film Transistor"). Selection and display elements can also be performed using a touch screen.

[0083] Advantageously, the local control unit 12 and / or the central control unit 13 includes at least one second communication module 36.

[0084] Thus, the second communication module 36 of the local control unit 12 or of the central control unit 13 is configured to transmit, in other words, sends out, control orders, in particular by wireless means, for example radioelectric, or by wired means.

[0085] In addition, the second communication module 36 of the local control unit 12 or of the central control unit 13 can also be configured to receive, in other words receives, control orders, in particular through the same means.

[0086] Advantageously, the second communication module 36 of the local control unit 12 or of the central control unit 13 is configured to communicate, in other words communicates, with the first communication module 27 of the electronic control unit 15.

[0087] Thus, the second communication module 36 of the local control unit 12 or of the central control unit 13 exchanges control orders with the first communication module 27 of the electronic control unit 15, either unidirectionally or bidirectionally.

[0088] Advantageously, the local control unit 12 is a control point, which can be fixed or mobile. A fixed control point can be a control box intended to be fixed to a wall of the building or to the face of a fixed window frame 40 or a door. A mobile control point can be a remote control, a smartphone, or a tablet.

[0089] Advantageously, the local control unit 12 and / or the central control unit 13 further includes a controller 35.

[0090] The motorized drive device 5, in particular the electronic control unit 15, is preferably configured to execute movement commands, including closing and opening, of the screen 2 of the shading device 3. These commands can be issued, in particular, by the local control unit 12 or by the central control unit 13.

[0091] The motorized drive device 5 can be controlled by the user, for example by receiving a command order corresponding to a press on the or one of the selection elements 14 of the local control unit 12 or of the central control unit 13.

[0092] The motorized drive device 5 can also be controlled automatically, for example by receiving a control command corresponding to at least one signal from at least one sensor, not shown, and / or a signal from a clock, not shown, of the electronic control unit 15, in particular the microcontroller 31. The sensor and / or the clock can be integrated into the local control unit 12 or the central control unit 13.

[0093] Advantageously, the electromechanical actuator 11 further comprises a housing 17, in particular a tubular one. The electric motor 16 is mounted inside the housing 17, particularly in an assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0094] Here, the housing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11 is cylindrical in shape, specifically of revolution around the axis of rotation X.

[0095] Advantageously, the crankcase 17 is a tube.

[0096] Here, the tube forming the housing 17 has a circular cross-section.

[0097] In one example of an embodiment, the housing 17 is made of a metallic material.

[0098] The material of the electromechanical actuator housing is not limited and can vary. In particular, it can be a plastic material.

[0099] The housing 17 is hollow. The housing 17 comprises a first end 17a and a second end 17b. The second end 17b is opposite the first end 17a. The housing 17 is open at each of its ends 17a, 17b.

[0100] Advantageously, the electromechanical actuator 11 further comprises an output shaft 20.

[0101] The output shaft 20 is disposed, or rather configured to be disposed, on the side of the second end 17b of the housing 17, in particular in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0102] Advantageously, the electromechanical actuator 11 further includes a reducer 19.

[0103] The reducer 19 is represented by its envelope at the figure 3 , without details on its internal constituent elements.

[0104] Advantageously, the reducer 19 includes at least one reduction stage. The reduction stage may be an epicyclic gear train.

[0105] The type and number of reduction stages of the reducer are not limited. The number of reduction stages may be, in particular, equal to one or greater than or equal to two.

[0106] The reducer 19 is coupled, in other words is configured to be coupled, with the electric motor 16, in particular with the rotor of the electric motor 16 and in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0107] Advantageously, the electromechanical actuator 11 further includes a brake 29.

[0108] By way of non-limiting examples, brake 29 can be a spring brake, a cam brake, a magnetic brake or an electromagnetic brake.

[0109] The brake 29 is configured to brake and / or to lock the output shaft 20 in rotation, so as to regulate the rotational speed of the winding tube 4, during a movement of the screen 2, and to keep the winding tube 4 locked, when the electromechanical actuator 11 is electrically deactivated.

[0110] Here and as can be seen at the figure 3 , the brake 29 is configured to be disposed, in other words is disposed, in particular in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11, between the electric motor 16 and the reducer 19, that is to say at the output of the electric motor 16.

[0111] In an alternative, not shown, the brake 29 is configured to be disposed, in other words is disposed, in particular in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11, between the electronic control unit 15 and the electric motor 16, in other words at the input of the electric motor 16, between the reducer 19 and the output shaft 20, in other words at the output of the reducer 19, or between two reduction stages of the reducer 19.

[0112] Advantageously, the reducer 19 and, optionally, the brake 29 are arranged inside the housing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11, particularly in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0113] Advantageously, the electromechanical actuator 11 further comprises a ring 30, i.e., a sleeve. The ring 30 is configured to be disposed, i.e., is positioned, at the first end 17a of the housing 17, particularly in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0114] The crown 30 constitutes, in other words is configured to constitute, a rotational guide bearing for the winding tube 4, in particular in an assembled configuration of the occulting device 3.

[0115] Advantageously, the electromechanical actuator 11 and, more particularly, the electronic control unit 15 further includes an obstacle detection and limit switch device, not shown, for winding and unwinding the screen 2. This obstacle detection and limit switch device can be mechanical or electronic.

[0116] Advantageously, the obstacle detection and limit switch device is implemented by means of the microcontroller 31 of the electronic control unit 15 and, in particular, by means of an algorithm implemented by this microcontroller 31.

[0117] The winding tube 4 is driven in rotation around the axis of rotation X and the housing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11, supported by two pivot joints. The first pivot joint is formed at one end of the winding tube 4 by means of the ring 30 inserted around the first end 17a of the housing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11. The ring 30 thus provides a bearing. The second pivot joint, not shown in the figure 3 , is carried out at a second end of the winding tube 4, not visible in this figure.

[0118] Advantageously, the electromechanical actuator 11 further includes a torque support 21, which can also be called an "actuator head" or "fixed point".

[0119] The torque support 21 obture, in other words is configured to obture, the first end 17a of the housing 17, in particular in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0120] Thus, the torque support 21 is disposed, in other words is configured to be disposed, at the level of the first end 17a of the housing 17.

[0121] Advantageously, the torque support 21 is projecting, at the level of the first end 17a of the housing 17, in particular the end 17a of the housing 17 receiving the ring 30.

[0122] Thus, a first part of the torque support 21 is arranged inside the housing 17 and a second part of the torque support 21 is arranged outside the housing 17.

[0123] Advantageously, the torque support 21 of the electromechanical actuator 11 is configured to fix the electromechanical actuator 11 on a frame 23, in particular on a side of the box 9.

[0124] Thus, the torque support 21 allows the forces exerted by the electromechanical actuator 11 to be absorbed, in particular the torque exerted by the electromechanical actuator 11, with respect to the building structure. The torque support 21 also advantageously allows the forces exerted by the winding tube 4 to be absorbed, in particular the weight of the winding tube 4, the electromechanical actuator 11, and the screen 2, and ensures that these forces are transferred to the building structure.

[0125] The torque support 21 is configured to be fixed, or is fixed, to the housing 17 by means of one or more fixing elements, particularly in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11. The fixing element(s) may be, in particular, bosses, fixing screws, elastic snap-fit ​​fixing elements, ribs fitted into notches or a combination of these different fixing elements.

[0126] Furthermore, the torque support 21 of the electromechanical actuator 11 can support at least part of the electronic control unit 15.

[0127] Advantageously, the electronic control unit 15 can be supplied with electrical energy by means of a power supply cable 18.

[0128] Here and as illustrated in the figure 3 , the electronic control unit 15 is thus arranged, in other words is integrated, inside the housing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0129] Alternatively, not shown, the electronic control unit 15 is located outside the housing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11 and, in particular, mounted on the box 9 or in the torque support 21.

[0130] Advantageously, the torque support 21 may include at least one button, not shown.

[0131] This button or these buttons can be used to adjust the electromechanical actuator 11 through one or more configuration modes, to pair one or more control units 12, 13 with the electromechanical actuator 11, to reset one or more parameters, such as, for example, a limit switch position, to reset the paired control unit(s) 12, 13 or to control the movement of the screen 2.

[0132] Advantageously, the torque support 21 may include at least one display device, not shown, so as to allow a visual indication of an operating parameter of the motorized drive device 5.

[0133] Advantageously, the display device includes at least one light source, not shown, in particular a light-emitting diode.

[0134] This or these light sources are mounted on an electronic board of the electronic control unit 15 and, optionally, a transparent or translucent cover and / or a light guide is or are provided, to allow the passage of the light emitted by the or each of the light sources.

[0135] Advantageously, the output shaft 20 of the electromechanical actuator 11 is disposed inside the winding tube 4 and at least partly outside the housing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0136] Here, one end of the output shaft 20 protrudes from the housing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11, in particular from the second end 17b of the housing 17.

[0137] Advantageously, the output shaft 20 of the electromechanical actuator 11 is configured to drive in rotation, in other words drives in rotation, a linking element 22. This linking element 22 is connected to the winding tube 4, in particular in the assembled configuration of the occulting device 3. The linking element is, in the example of the figures, made in the form of a wheel.

[0138] When the electromechanical actuator 11 is switched on, the electric motor 16 and the reducer 19 drive the output shaft 20 in rotation. In addition, the output shaft 20 of the electromechanical actuator 11 drives the winding tube 4 in rotation via the connecting element 22.

[0139] Thus, the winding tube 4 causes the screen 2 of the occulting device 3 to rotate, so as to open or close the opening 1.

[0140] The obscuring device 3 and, more particularly, the motorized drive device 5 further comprises an electrical power supply device 26, visible at the figure 2 The electromechanical actuator 11 is electrically connected to the electrical power supply device 26.

[0141] The electrical power supply device 26 includes at least one battery 24 and at least one photovoltaic panel 25.

[0142] The electrical power supply device 26 is configured to supply, in other words provides, electrical power to the electromechanical actuator 11 and, more particularly, to the electronic control unit 15 and the electric motor 16.

[0143] Thus, the electrical power supply device 26 makes it possible to supply electrical power to the electromechanical actuator 11, without itself being electrically connected to a mains power supply network.

[0144] Here, the photovoltaic panel 25 is electrically connected to the battery 24, by an electrical link L24-25.

[0145] The electromechanical actuator 11 is electrically connected to the electrical power supply device 26 and, more particularly, to the battery 24, in particular by means of the electrical power cable 18.

[0146] The battery 24 is configured to supply, in other words, provides electrical energy to the electromechanical actuator 11, in particular the electronic control unit 15 and the electric motor 16. In addition, the battery 24 is configured to be supplied, in other words, is supplied with electrical energy by the photovoltaic panel 25.

[0147] Thus, the battery 24 is recharged by solar energy, using the photovoltaic panel 25.

[0148] Here and as illustrated in the figure 2 Battery 24 is located outside trunk 9.

[0149] Alternatively, not shown, the battery 24 can be disposed at the level of the box 9, in particular inside the box 9, inside the winding tube 4 while being outside the housing 17, or inside the housing 17, in particular in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11. In the latter case, the electromechanical actuator 11 includes the battery 24.

[0150] When the torque support 21 includes a display device, the operating parameter that this display device allows to be viewed is advantageously a state of charge of the battery 24.

[0151] Here, the electromechanical actuator 11 includes the power cable 18 enabling its supply of electrical energy, in particular the power supply of the electronic control unit 15 and the power supply of the electric motor 16, in particular from the battery 24.

[0152] Here, battery 24 is electrically connected directly to the electronic control unit 15, by the power supply cable 18.

[0153] The 24 battery is rechargeable.

[0154] Advantageously, the battery 24 comprises a plurality of energy storage elements 32, in particular electrically connected in series. The energy storage elements 32 of the battery 24 may be, in particular, rechargeable accumulators.

[0155] Advantageously, the photovoltaic panel 25 comprises a plurality of photovoltaic cells 43. In this case, the battery 24 is supplied with electrical energy by means of the photovoltaic cells 43 of the photovoltaic panel 25.

[0156] The motorized drive device 5, in particular the photovoltaic panel 25 and / or the electronic control unit 15, includes charging elements configured to charge the battery 24, from the solar energy recovered by the photovoltaic panel 25. In this case, the current flows between the components 25, 24 and 15 through a wired link, which may be separate from the electrical power supply cable 18.

[0157] Thus, the charging elements configured to charge the battery 24, from solar energy, allow the solar energy recovered by the photovoltaic panel 25 to be converted into electrical energy.

[0158] Alternatively or in addition, the motorized drive device 5, in particular the electromechanical actuator 11, is supplied with electrical energy from the battery 24, from an auxiliary battery, not shown, or from a mains power supply network, in particular from the commercial AC network, in particular depending on a state of charge of the battery 24.

[0159] Here, the electronic control unit 15 comprises a single electronic board 37. Furthermore, the electronic board 37 is configured to control the electric motor 16, to enable the charging of the battery 24, and optionally, to access parameter settings and / or configuration functions of the electromechanical actuator 11, by means of selection and, optionally, display elements, not shown. As mentioned above, the battery charging elements 24 can be arranged on the electronic board 37.

[0160] Alternatively, and not shown, the electronic control unit 15 comprises a first electronic board and a second electronic board. The first electronic board is configured to control the electric motor 16. Furthermore, the second electronic board is configured to allow charging of the battery 24 and, optionally, access to parameter settings and / or configuration functions of the electromechanical actuator 11, by means of selection and, optionally, display elements, which are not shown. The battery charging elements for the battery 24 may be located on the second electronic board.

[0161] In the case where the electronic control unit 15 comprises a first electronic board and a second electronic board, not shown, the first electronic board of the electronic control unit 15 may be arranged inside the housing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11. Furthermore, the second electronic board may be arranged inside the torque support 21 of the electromechanical actuator 11. Moreover, the torque support 21 may include a cover, not shown. In addition, the second electronic board may be arranged inside a recess formed between a portion of the torque support 21 and the cover.

[0162] Advantageously, the photovoltaic panel 25 can be fixed to the box 9, to a wall of the building, to one of the side channels 6, to a pane of glass in the window 40 or to a fixed frame of the window 40.

[0163] We now describe, with reference to the figure 4 , part of an electrical diagram of the motorized drive device 5 illustrated in figures 1 à 3 , in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0164] The 25 photovoltaic panel is configured to provide, in other words supplies or delivers, a voltage Vpv, which can also be called the charging voltage.

[0165] The 24 battery is configured to provide, in other words supplies or delivers, a voltage Vbat.

[0166] The electronic control unit 15 further includes a measuring device 33. The measuring device 33 is configured to measure, in other words, measure, a physical quantity supplied by the photovoltaic panel 25. Here, the physical quantity being measured is the open-circuit voltage Vco, also called the "open-circuit voltage", supplied, in other words, delivered, by the photovoltaic panel 25.

[0167] Thus, the electronic control unit 15 is configured to determine at least one open-circuit voltage value Vco of the photovoltaic panel 25 via the measuring device 33.

[0168] Advantageously, the open-circuit voltage (Vco) measurement is implemented, in particular, by means of a voltage divider 33a. Advantageously, the measuring device 33 further comprises a switch 33b. The switch 33b can be, for example, a MOSFET (Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor) transistor, which can be electronically controlled, in particular by the microcontroller 31 of the electronic control unit 15. The voltage divider 33a and the switch 33b belong to the electronic control unit 15 and, more specifically, to the measuring device 33. Furthermore, a value of the open-circuit voltage (Vco) measurement is determined through an analog-to-digital converter 39 and the microcontroller 31 of the electronic control unit 15.

[0169] The measuring device 33 is electrically connected to the photovoltaic panel 25.

[0170] The microcontroller 31 includes at least one input port 38 for reading the open-circuit voltage value Vco supplied by the photovoltaic panel 25 and measured by the measuring device 33. In other words, the input port 38 of the microcontroller 31 is configured to read the value of the voltage Vco supplied by the photovoltaic panel 25 and measured by the measuring device 33.

[0171] Advantageously, the input port 38 of the microcontroller 31 includes the analog-to-digital converter 39. In this case, the analog-to-digital converter 39 is integrated into the microcontroller 31.

[0172] Alternatively, not shown, the input port 38 of the microcontroller 31 is electrically connected to the analog / digital converter 39. In this case, the analog / digital converter 39 is a separate element from the microcontroller 31.

[0173] Advantageously, the electrical power supply device 26 and, more particularly, the electronic control unit 15 further includes a diode 48. The diode 48 is electrically connected, on the one hand, to the photovoltaic panel 25 and, on the other hand, to the battery 24.

[0174] Advantageously, diode 48 is an integral part of the electrical link L24-25 between the photovoltaic panel 25 and the battery 24.

[0175] Here, diode 48 is positioned between photovoltaic panel 25 and battery 24. Diode 48 is said to be "passive" from photovoltaic panel 25 to battery 24 and said to be "blocking" from battery 24 to photovoltaic panel 25.

[0176] Here, diode 48 makes it possible, in particular, to avoid a return of electrical energy from the battery 24 to the photovoltaic panel 25, when the value of the voltage Vpv supplied by the photovoltaic panel 25 is less than a value of the voltage Vbat supplied by the battery 24.

[0177] In addition, the electronic control unit 15 is configured to measure, or rather, to measure, a charging current Ipv of the photovoltaic panel 25, specifically of one, several, or all of the photovoltaic cells 43 of the photovoltaic panel 25. The measurement of the charging current Ipv is implemented by means of another measuring device, not shown, which may include, in particular, a shunt resistor, also not shown. The shunt resistor belongs to the electronic control unit 15 and, more specifically, to the other measuring device. A value of the measured charging current Ipv is determined through an analog-to-digital converter, also not shown, and the microcontroller 31 of the electronic control unit 15.

[0178] In addition, the electronic control unit 15 is configured to measure, or rather, to measure, a short-circuit current Icc of the photovoltaic panel 25, in particular of one, several, or all of the photovoltaic cells 43 of the photovoltaic panel 25. The measurement of the short-circuit current Icc is implemented by means of another measuring device, not shown, which may include, in particular, a shunt resistor, also not shown. Advantageously, the other measuring device further includes a switch, also not shown. In one case, this switch may be the same as the switch 33b of the measuring device 33. Alternatively, this switch may be different from the switch 33b of the measuring device 33.The switch can be, for example, a MOSFET (Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor), which can be electronically controlled, in particular by the microcontroller 31 of the electronic control unit 15. The shunt resistor and the switch belong to the electronic control unit 15 and, more specifically, to the other measuring device. A value for the short-circuit current Icc is determined via an analog-to-digital converter (not shown) and the microcontroller 31 of the electronic control unit 15.

[0179] In addition, the electronic control unit 15 is configured to measure the charging voltage Vpv, specifically of one, several, or all of the photovoltaic cells 43 of the photovoltaic panel 25. The measurement of the charging voltage Vpv is implemented using another measuring device, not shown, which may include, in particular, a voltage divider, also not shown. The voltage divider belongs to the electronic control unit 15 and, more specifically, to the other measuring device. A value for the measured charging voltage Vpv is determined through an analog-to-digital converter, also not shown, and the microcontroller 31 of the electronic control unit 15.

[0180] Advantageously, the electronic control unit 15 further comprises a pilot unit 41. In addition, the pilot unit 41 is electrically connected to the electric motor 16.

[0181] Thus, the control unit 41 is configured to supply electrical energy, in other words, provides electrical energy, to the electric motor 16.

[0182] Here, battery 24 provides the voltage Vbat to the control unit 41.

[0183] The photovoltaic panel 25 is part of a predetermined list of models 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panels 25. The predetermined list includes a plurality of models 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panels 25.

[0184] The predetermined list of 25a, 25b, ..., 25n photovoltaic panel models can also be called a range of 25a, 25b, ..., 25n photovoltaic panel models. In addition, each 25a, 25b, ..., 25n photovoltaic panel model can also be called a 25a, 25b, ..., 25n photovoltaic panel reference.

[0185] Advantageously, the predetermined list of models 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panels 25 is stored in a memory, not shown, of the electronic control unit 15, in particular of the microcontroller 31.

[0186] Advantageously, the predetermined list of models 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of 25 photovoltaic panels can be updated during the lifetime of the motorized drive device 5.

[0187] Advantageously, the update is implemented by means of a configuration tool, which is configured to exchange, or swap, data with the electronic control unit 15, either by wired communication or by wireless communication.

[0188] Advantageously, the configuration tool is a mobile terminal, which could be, for example, a smartphone, a tablet, or a computer.

[0189] Alternatively or in addition, the configuration tool can be the local control unit 12 or the central control unit 13.

[0190] Here, the 25a, 25b, ..., 25n models of 25 photovoltaic panels belonging to the predetermined list have different technical characteristics respectively, for example, in terms of size and / or in terms of power delivered.

[0191] We now describe, with reference to figures 5 And 6 , a method of implementing a control procedure during operation of the motorized drive device 5, illustrated in figures 1 à 3 This control method in operation conforms to the invention.

[0192] The graph of the figure 6 illustrates by different curves, for two models 25a, 25b of different 25 photovoltaic panels and for different values ​​of illumination level, the evolution of the current Ipv expressed in milliamperes (mA) as a function of the voltage Vpv expressed in volts (V).

[0193] As a non-limiting example, the graph was established for a first model 25a of a photovoltaic panel 25 with a peak power of approximately 2.5 watts peak (Wp) and a second model 25b of a photovoltaic panel 25 with a peak power of approximately 5.8 watts peak. Furthermore, the various curves of the graph were established for each of the two models 25a and 25b of photovoltaic panels 25 with an irradiance level of the photovoltaic panel 25 between 100 W / m² and 1000 W / m².

[0194] A first rectangle represented on the figure 6 allows visualization of a range of open-circuit voltage (Vco) values ​​for the first model 25a of the 25 photovoltaic panel, particularly for a temperature of around 25°C. Furthermore, a second rectangle shown on the figure 6 allows visualization of a range of open-circuit voltage values ​​Vco of the second model 25b of photovoltaic panel 25, in particular for the same temperature of around 25°C.

[0195] The in-operation control method according to the invention includes a first measurement step E30 of at least one value of the open-circuit voltage Vco supplied by the photovoltaic panel 25.

[0196] Advantageously, the first measurement step E30 is implemented by the measuring device 33 and by the electronic control unit 15 and, more particularly, by the microcontroller 31.

[0197] The process includes a comparison step E50, for each model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25, of the open-circuit voltage value Vco measured, during the first measurement step E30, with at least a predetermined range of open-circuit voltage values ​​Vco associated with the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25.

[0198] In addition, the process includes an identification step E100, based on the result of the comparison step E50, of the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25 from the predetermined list.

[0199] Thus, the process allows verification of the operational compatibility of a model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25, from the predetermined list, with the other equipment of the motorized drive device 5, in particular with the electromechanical actuator 11, the electronic control unit 15 and the battery 24.

[0200] In this way, identifying the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25, from the predetermined list, makes it possible to avoid potential problems in terms of compatibility of the voltage Vpv delivered by the photovoltaic panel 25 to the battery 24.

[0201] In addition, the identification of the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25, from the predetermined list, ensures the correct execution of functions by the electronic control unit 15.

[0202] Furthermore, the identification of the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25, from the predetermined list, is implemented by measuring at least one value of the open-circuit voltage Vco supplied by the photovoltaic panel 25, since this physical quantity is relatively stable with respect to lighting conditions during a day, in particular between the time of sunrise and the time of sunset, and with respect to temperature conditions for each model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25.

[0203] Therefore, provided that the predetermined ranges of open-circuit voltage Vco values ​​associated respectively with models 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panels 25 are sufficiently spaced apart from each other, this measurement of at least one value of the open-circuit voltage Vco supplied by the photovoltaic panel 25 makes it possible to identify the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25 among the models 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panels 25 belonging to the predetermined list, regardless of the value of the illumination level of the photovoltaic panel 25 at the time of the measurement of the value of the open-circuit voltage Vco supplied by the photovoltaic panel 25.

[0204] During the course of a day, particularly between sunrise and sunset, the open-circuit voltage (Vco) supplied by the photovoltaic panel 25 varies little, or rather, within a limited range, depending on the level of illumination of the photovoltaic panel 25. This variation in the open-circuit voltage (Vco) supplied by the photovoltaic panel 25 depends on its characteristics, in particular the type of photovoltaic cells 43 in the photovoltaic panel 25 and the number of these cells connected electrically in series. This small variation in the open-circuit voltage (Vco) supplied by the photovoltaic panel 25 during the day allows us to consider this physical quantity as relatively stable. Thus, the identification of the photovoltaic panel 25 model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n among the models 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panels 25 belonging to the predetermined list is possible during a day, in particular between the time of sunrise and the time of sunset, regardless of the level of illumination of the photovoltaic panel 25 at the time of measurement of the open-circuit voltage value Vco supplied by the photovoltaic panel 25.

[0205] Furthermore, the identification of the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25, from the predetermined list, thanks to the process makes it possible to do without a mechanical error-proofing device at the level of the electrical connection L24-25 between the photovoltaic panel 25 and the battery 24.

[0206] Therefore, the cost of obtaining the motorized drive device 5 is lower.

[0207] Conversely, a measurement of at least one value of the charging current Ipv or the short-circuit current Icc supplied by the photovoltaic panel 25 does not allow the identification of the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25 from the predetermined list, because the measurement of a value of the charging current Ipv or the short-circuit current Icc evolves linearly with the level of illumination of the photovoltaic panel 25 during a day, in particular between the time of sunrise and the time of sunset.

[0208] Thus, the value of the charging current Ipv or the short-circuit current Icc supplied by the photovoltaic panel 25 changes during a day and depending on the weather conditions, which prevents the identification of the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25 from the predetermined list, unless the level of illumination of the photovoltaic panel 25 is precisely determined from an additional illumination sensor, which is independent of the photovoltaic panel 25.

[0209] Therefore, such a method of identifying the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25 from the predetermined list would be complex to implement and would require a relatively precise additional illuminance sensor, resulting in a high cost of obtaining the motorized drive device 5.

[0210] The E50 comparison step and the E100 identification step are implemented by the electronic control unit 15 and, more specifically, by the microcontroller 31.

[0211] Advantageously, the or each range of open-circuit voltage values ​​Vco associated with each of the models 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panels 25 is stored in a memory of the electronic control unit 15, in particular of the microcontroller 31.

[0212] Advantageously, the process further includes, following the identification step E100, an activation step E110 of functions implemented by the electronic control unit 15 and associated with the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25 identified during the identification step E100.

[0213] Here, the functions implemented by the electronic control unit 15 may include, in particular, control of the motorized drive device 5 according to the level of illumination, performance diagnostics of the motorized drive device 5, or installation or commissioning diagnostics of the motorized drive device 5, this diagnostics may include, in particular, checking the electrical connection of the photovoltaic panel 25 to the battery 24, to the electronic control unit 15 and / or to the electromechanical actuator 11, or checking that the photovoltaic panel 25 is not damaged or even broken.

[0214] Advantageously, the E110 activation step is implemented by the electronic control unit 15 and, more specifically, by the microcontroller 31.

[0215] In a first example of an embodiment, for each model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25, the comparison step E50 of the open-circuit voltage value Vco measured, during the first measurement step E30, is implemented with a single predetermined range of open-circuit voltage values ​​Vco associated with the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25.

[0216] In the first embodiment example, for each model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25, prior to the comparison step E50, the process includes a reading step E40 of a single predetermined range of values ​​of the open-circuit voltage Vco associated with the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25.

[0217] In a second embodiment, for each model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25, the comparison step E50 of the open-circuit voltage value Vco measured during the first measurement step E30 is implemented with a plurality of predetermined ranges of open-circuit voltage values ​​Vco associated with the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25. Each predetermined range of open-circuit voltage values ​​Vco is also associated with a predetermined range of values ​​of an irradiance level of the photovoltaic panel 25.

[0218] Thus, the division of the predetermined ranges of open-circuit voltage Vco associated with the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25 according to the predetermined ranges of the illumination level of the photovoltaic panel 25 makes it possible to avoid possible overlaps between the ranges of predetermined values ​​of open-circuit voltage Vco associated with the different models 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panels 25 and, consequently, to avoid a possible impossibility of identifying the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25, during the identification step E100.

[0219] In the second embodiment example, for each model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25 and for each predetermined range of values ​​of the illumination level of the photovoltaic panel 25, the method includes, prior to the comparison step E50, a reading step E40 of one of the predetermined ranges of values ​​of the open-circuit voltage Vco associated with the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25 and with the predetermined range of values ​​of the illumination level of the photovoltaic panel 25.

[0220] Advantageously, in both the first and second embodiments, the E40 reading step is implemented by the electronic control unit 15 and, more specifically, by the microcontroller 31.

[0221] In the second embodiment, the illumination level of the photovoltaic panel 25 is determined using an additional illumination sensor, not shown. In this case, the motorized drive device 5 includes the additional illumination sensor.

[0222] Here, determining the irradiance level of photovoltaic panel 25 does not require high precision when combined with measuring open-circuit voltage (Vco) to identify the 25a, 25b, ..., 25n model of photovoltaic panel 25 from a predetermined list. This differs from the case where determining the irradiance level of photovoltaic panel 25 is combined with measuring charging current (Ipv) or short-circuit current (Icc). In this case, determining the irradiance level of photovoltaic panel 25 can be done approximately to establish an order of magnitude for the irradiance level of the panel.

[0223] Advantageously, the additional illuminance sensor is configured to implement, or in other words implements, at least one measurement of one or more physical quantities related to the illuminance level, such as, for example, the charging current Ipv and / or the short-circuit current Icc.

[0224] Here, the additional light sensor is independent of the photovoltaic panel 25, that is to say that this light sensor is separate from the photovoltaic cells 43 of the photovoltaic panel 25.

[0225] Advantageously, the additional illuminance sensor is external to the photovoltaic panel 25. In addition, the additional illuminance sensor is configured to be electrically connected, in other words is electrically connected, to the electronic control unit 15, so as to transmit at least one signal representative of the illuminance level of the photovoltaic panel 25 according to the measurement(s) carried out.

[0226] Alternatively, the additional light sensor is integrated into the photovoltaic panel 25. In this case, the additional light sensor is a photodiode or an additional photovoltaic cell independent of the photovoltaic cells 43 of the photovoltaic panel 25, in other words an additional photovoltaic cell not electrically connected to the photovoltaic cells 43 of the photovoltaic panel 25.

[0227] Alternatively, the additional illuminance sensor is a virtual illuminance sensor. The determination of the virtual illuminance level is implemented by querying, among other things, server 28. The virtual illuminance sensor is a set of means that simulates a real illuminance sensor and produces data that would be produced by the real illuminance sensor installed at a given location. To do this, the means utilize meteorological data provided over a network such as the internet.

[0228] In another variant, the illumination level of the photovoltaic panel 25 can be determined by measuring one or more other physical quantities related to the illumination level of the photovoltaic panel 25, such as, for example, the charging current Ipv and / or the short-circuit current Icc. In this case, the motorized drive device 5 does not have an additional illumination sensor; in other words, the photovoltaic panel 25 is used as the illumination sensor.

[0229] Furthermore, the determination of the illumination level of the photovoltaic panel 25 cannot be implemented from the value of the open-circuit voltage Vco measured during the first measurement step E30, since this measurement does not allow the illumination level of the photovoltaic panel 25 to be determined with sufficient precision.

[0230] Nevertheless, measuring several open-circuit voltage values ​​Vco at different times allows us to determine a strong variation, in other words a significant change, in the level of illumination of the photovoltaic panel 25, which may correspond, for example, to the time of sunrise, the time of sunset, or the time of a transition from a cloudless illumination condition to a cloudy illumination condition, or vice versa.

[0231] In this second example of implementation, the process also includes a second measurement step E60 of a value of the illuminance level of the photovoltaic panel 25.

[0232] Advantageously, regardless of the physical quantity used and the means used to determine the illumination level of the photovoltaic panel 25, the method further comprises: another comparison step E70 of the value of the illuminance level of the photovoltaic panel 25 measured, either during the first measurement step E30, or during the second measurement step E60, with predetermined threshold values ​​S1a, S1b, , S1n, the predetermined threshold values ​​S1a, S1b, , S1n corresponding to the limits of the ranges of predetermined values ​​of the illuminance level of the photovoltaic panel 25, and in response to the other comparison step E70, a determination step E80 of one of the ranges of predetermined values ​​of the illuminance level of the photovoltaic panel 25.

[0233] Advantageously, the second measurement step E60, the other comparison step E70 and the determination step E80 are implemented prior to the comparison step E50 and, more specifically, to the reading step E40.

[0234] Advantageously, the or each predetermined range of open-circuit voltage Vco values ​​associated with the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25 is defined for a temperature value representative of the temperature of the photovoltaic panel 25.

[0235] Thus, the predetermined range of open-circuit voltage (Vco) values ​​associated with the 25a, 25b, ..., 25n photovoltaic panel model 25 and the temperature value prevents potential overlaps between the predetermined ranges of open-circuit voltage (Vco) values ​​associated with the different 25a, 25b, ..., 25n photovoltaic panel models 25 and, consequently, prevents a possible inability to identify the 25a, 25b, ..., 25n photovoltaic panel model 25 during the E100 identification step.

[0236] In this way, taking into account the temperature value makes it possible to identify more reliably the predetermined ranges of open-circuit voltage Vco values ​​associated respectively with models 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of 25 photovoltaic panels, especially when the difference between them is close.

[0237] Advantageously, the temperature value is measured. In this case, the process further includes, prior to the comparison step E50 and, more particularly, to the reading step E40, a third temperature measurement step E90.

[0238] Advantageously, the third measurement step E90 is implemented by a temperature sensor, not shown, and by the electronic control unit 15 and, more particularly, by the microcontroller 31.

[0239] Here, the temperature value is a temperature value of the photovoltaic panel 25 and, more specifically, of the photovoltaic cells 43 of the photovoltaic panel 25.

[0240] Alternatively, not shown, the temperature value is an ambient temperature value or an internal temperature value of the electromechanical actuator 11, such as, for example, that inside the housing 17 or that of the electric motor 16. In this case, the temperature value is corrected by taking into consideration at least one value of the illumination level of the photovoltaic panel 25, which is measured either during the first measurement step E30, or during the second measurement step E60, as described previously.

[0241] In the first embodiment example, for each model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25 and for the temperature value, the reading step E40 is implemented taking into account one of the predetermined ranges of open-circuit voltage Vco associated with the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25 and the measured temperature value, during the third measurement step E90.

[0242] In the second embodiment example, for each model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25, for each predetermined range of values ​​of the illumination level of the photovoltaic panel 25 and for each temperature value, the reading step E40 is implemented taking into account one of the predetermined ranges of values ​​of the open-circuit voltage Vco associated with the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25, the range of values ​​of the illumination level of the photovoltaic panel 25 determined, during the determination step E80, and the temperature value measured, during the third measurement step E90.

[0243] Advantageously, the process also includes: prior to the first measurement step E30, an initial measurement step E10 of at least one value of the charging current Ipv of the battery 24 by the photovoltaic panel 25, and an initial comparison step E20 of the value of the charging current Ipv measured, during the initial measurement step E10, with a predetermined threshold value of current S0.

[0244] Advantageously, the predetermined threshold value of current S0 is a zero value of load current Ipv.

[0245] Thus, in the case where the value of the charging current Ipv measured, during the initial measurement step E10, is strictly greater than the predetermined threshold value of current S0, a value of the voltage Vpv delivered by the photovoltaic panel 25 is positive.

[0246] Furthermore, in the case where the value of the charging current Ipv measured, during the initial measurement step E10, is strictly greater than the predetermined threshold value of current S0, a value of the voltage Vpv delivered by the photovoltaic panel 25 is strictly greater than a value of the voltage Vbat delivered by the battery 24.

[0247] In this case, the open-circuit voltage value Vco supplied by the photovoltaic panel 25 is representative of the operation of the photovoltaic panel 25 to supply electrical energy to the battery 24 during the day, in other words between the time of sunrise and the time of sunset.

[0248] Therefore, the following steps of the process can be implemented, in particular from the first measurement step E30, in order to identify the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25.

[0249] Otherwise, if the value of the charging current Ipv measured, during the initial measurement step E10, is less than or equal to the predetermined threshold value of current S0, the value of the voltage Vpv delivered by the photovoltaic panel 25 is less than or equal to the value of the voltage Vbat delivered by the battery 24.

[0250] In this case, the open-circuit voltage value Vco supplied by the photovoltaic panel 25 is not representative of the operation of the photovoltaic panel 25 to supply electrical energy to the battery 24 during the day, in other words between the time of sunrise and the time of sunset.

[0251] This case corresponds to a measurement of the illuminance level of the photovoltaic panel 25 in low light conditions, which can be either at night or in a dark environment.

[0252] Therefore, the following steps of the process cannot be implemented, in particular from the first measurement step E30, in order to identify the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25, given that the open-circuit voltage values ​​Vco of the different models 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panels 25 are close, or even identical, and, in particular, zero.

[0253] Advantageously, in the case where the physical quantity used to determine the illumination level of the photovoltaic panel 25, during the determination step E80, is the charging current Ipv, the second measurement step E60 and the initial measurement step E10 can be grouped into a single step of the process.

[0254] Advantageously, the process is implemented, in particular steps E10 to E110 of the process are implemented, during a commissioning phase of the motorized drive device 5, in particular either during the electrical connection of the photovoltaic panel 25 to the battery 24, or during the electrical activation of the electromechanical actuator 11 electrically connected to the battery 24, itself electrically connected to the photovoltaic panel 25.

[0255] Thus, following the identification step E100, the activation step E110 is implemented, so that the electronic control unit 15 selects operating parameters associated with the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25 identified during the identification step E100.

[0256] In this way, the electronic control unit 15 is configured to perform, in other words executes, functions by applying operating parameters adapted to the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25 which is electrically connected to the electromechanical actuator 11 and which is identified during the identification step E100.

[0257] The functions performed by the electronic control unit 15 are, for example, parameterization and / or configuration functions of the electromechanical actuator 11 related to the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25.

[0258] Alternatively or in addition, the process is implemented, in particular steps E10 to E110 of the process are implemented periodically, either during the day of commissioning of the motorized drive device 5, or during the life of the motorized drive device 5. In this case, the process makes it possible to verify that the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25 initially installed, either has not been changed during the day of commissioning of the motorized drive device 5, or has not been changed during the life of the motorized drive device 5.

[0259] Thanks to the present invention, the method makes it possible to verify the operational compatibility of a photovoltaic panel model, from the predetermined list, with the other equipment of the motorized drive device.

[0260] Numerous modifications can be made to the embodiment examples described above, without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

[0261] Alternatively, and not shown, the electrical power supply device 26 further includes a charger. The charger is configured to be electrically connected, that is, is electrically connected, to the battery 24, either directly to the battery or via the electromechanical actuator 11 and / or the electronic control unit 15. The charger is configured to be plugged, that is, is plugged into a wall outlet, so as to recharge the battery 24 from a mains power supply. This charger constitutes an external electrical power supply. If the charger is electrically connected to the battery 24 instead of the photovoltaic panel 25, the method described above for identifying the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of the photovoltaic panel 25 from the predetermined list cannot be implemented.

[0262] Alternatively, and not shown, the electrical power supply device 26 further includes an auxiliary battery, configured to recharge battery 24. The auxiliary battery is configured to be electrically connected to battery 24, either directly or via the electromechanical actuator 11 and / or the electronic control unit 15. Thus, battery 24 can be recharged by means of the auxiliary battery, which acts as an external power supply, particularly when the shading device 3 is located far from a wall outlet. Furthermore, the auxiliary battery can be used to recharge the battery of other electrical equipment, especially portable devices such as, for example, a mobile phone or a laptop computer.Furthermore, such an auxiliary battery may have at least two electrical outputs, specifically a first output delivering a voltage of 12 volts to supply electrical energy to battery 24 and a second output delivering a voltage of 5 volts to supply electrical energy to other, so-called portable, electrical equipment. If the auxiliary battery is electrically connected to battery 24 instead of the photovoltaic panel 25, the previously described method for identifying the model 25a, 25b, ..., 25n of photovoltaic panel 25 from the predetermined list cannot be implemented.

[0263] Alternatively, not shown, the electromechanical actuator 11 is inserted into a rail, in particular of square or rectangular cross-section, which can be open at one or both ends, in particular in the assembled configuration of the blackout device 3. Furthermore, the electromechanical actuator 11 can be configured to drive a drive shaft around which travel and / or orientation cords of the screen 2 are wound, which can advantageously be a slatted blind in this case.

[0264] Furthermore, the envisaged embodiments and variants can be combined to generate new embodiments of the invention, without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A method of controlling the operation of a motorized driving device (5), the motorized driving device (5) comprising at least: - an electromechanical actuator (11), - an electronic control unit (15), and - an electrical energy supply device (26), the electromechanical actuator (11) comprising at least one electric motor (16), the electrical energy supply device (26) comprising at least: - a battery (24), the electronic control unit (15) and the electric motor (16) being supplied with electrical energy from the battery (24), and - a photovoltaic panel (25), the battery (24) being supplied with electrical energy by means of the photovoltaic panel (25), the electronic control unit (15) comprising at least: - a microcontroller (31), and - a measuring device (33), the measuring device (33) being configured to measure at least one value of an open-circuit voltage (Vco) supplied by the photovoltaic panel (25), the measuring device (33) being electrically connected to the photovoltaic panel (25), the microcontroller (31) comprising at least one input port (38) for reading the value of the open-circuit voltage (Vco) supplied by the photovoltaic panel (25) and measured by the measuring device (33), the method comprising: - a first step (E30) of measuring at least one value of the open-circuit voltage (Vco) supplied by the photovoltaic panel (25), characterized in that the photovoltaic panel (25) is one of a predetermined list of a plurality of models (25a, 25b, ..., 25n) of photovoltaic panels (25), in that the method further comprises at least: - a step (E50) of comparing, for each model (25a, 25b, ..., 25n) of photovoltaic panel (25), the value of the open-circuit voltage (Vco) measured, during the first measuring step (E30), with at least one predetermined range of values of the open-circuit voltage (Vco) associated with the model (25a, 25b, ..., 25n) of photovoltaic panel (25), and - a step (E100) of identifying, depending on the result of the comparing step (E50), the model (25a, 25b, ..., 25n) of photovoltaic panel (25) from the predetermined list, and in that the comparing step (E50) and the identifying step (E100) are implemented by the electronic control unit (15).

2. The method of controlling the operation of a motorized driving device (5) according to claim 1, characterized in that, for each model (25a, 25b, ...25n) of photovoltaic panel (25), the comparing step (E50) of the value of the open-circuit voltage (Vco) measured, during the first measuring step (E30), is implemented with a single predetermined range of values of the open-circuit voltage (Vco) associated with the model (25a, 25b, ..., 25n) of photovoltaic panel (25).

3. The method of controlling the operation of a motorized driving device (5) according to claim 1, characterized in that, for each model (25a, 25b, ..., 25n) of photovoltaic panel (25), the comparing step (E50) of the value of the open-circuit voltage (Vco) measured, during the first measuring step (E30), is implemented with a plurality of predetermined ranges of values of the open-circuit voltage (Vco) associated with the model (25a, 25b, ..., 25n) of photovoltaic panel (25), each predetermined range of values of the open-circuit voltage (Vco) also being associated with a predetermined range of values of an illumination level of the photovoltaic panel (25).

4. The method of controlling the operation of a motorized driving device (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the or each predetermined range of values of the open-circuit voltage (Vco) associated with the model (25a, 25b, ..., 25n) of photovoltaic panel (25) is defined for a temperature value representative of the temperature of the photovoltaic panel (25).

5. The method of controlling the operation of a motorized driving device (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the method further comprises, following the identifying step (E100), a step of activating (E110) functions implemented by the electronic control unit (15) and associated with the model (25a, 25b, ..., 25n) of photovoltaic panel (25) identified, during the identifying step (E100).

6. The method of controlling the operation of a motorized driving device (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the method is implemented during an commissioning phase of the motorized driving device (5).

7. The method of controlling the operation of a motorized driving device (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the method is implemented periodically, either during a day on which the motorized driving device (5) enters service, or during the lifetime of the motorized driving device (5).

8. A motorized driving device (5), the motorized driving device (5) comprising at least: - an electromechanical actuator (11), - an electronic control unit (15), and - an electrical energy supply device (26), the electromechanical actuator (11) comprising at least one electric motor (16), the electrical energy supply device (26) comprising at least: - a battery (24), the electronic control unit (15) and the electric motor (16) being supplied with electrical energy from the battery (24), and - a photovoltaic panel (25), the battery (24) being supplied with electrical energy by means of the photovoltaic panel (25), the electronic control unit (15) comprising at least: - a microcontroller (31), and - a measuring device (33), the measuring device (33) being configured to measure at least one value of an open-circuit voltage (Vco) supplied by the photovoltaic panel (25), the measuring device (33) being electrically connected to the photovoltaic panel (25), the microcontroller (31) comprising at least one input port (38) for reading the value of the open-circuit voltage (Vco) supplied by the photovoltaic panel (25) and measured by the measuring device (33), characterized in that the photovoltaic panel (25) is one of a predetermined list of a plurality of models (25a, 25b, ..., 25n) of photovoltaic panels (25), and in that the electronic control unit (15) is configured to implement the method according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. An occultation device (3) comprising at least: - a screen (2), and - a motorized driving device (5), characterized in that the motorized driving device (5) is according to claim 8, the screen (2) being configured to be moved by the electromechanical actuator (11) of the motorized driving device (5).

10. The occultation device (3) according to claim 9, characterized in that the occultation device (3) further comprises a winding tube (4), in that the screen (2) can be rolled onto the winding tube (4), and in that the winding tube (4) is arranged to be rotated by the electromechanical actuator (11).

Images