Actuator for driving a screen

Abstract

The invention relates to an actuator for driving a sun protection or blocking screen between a plurality of positions, the actuator comprising an electric motor (4), a reduction gear (6), at least one battery (8) powering the geared motor, a circuit (12) for controlling the geared motor, a charging connector (16) designed to allow the at least one battery (8) to be connected to a power supply device, the actuator also comprising a casing (2) having a longitudinal axis (X) for housing the motor (4), the reduction gear (6), the battery (8) and the control circuit (12), the charging connector (16) being a standard connector, the actuator being intended to co-operate with a power supply device comprising a standard connector corresponding to the standard connector of the actuator. The control circuit (12) has means for transmitting, to the power supply device, a request for a power supply profile comprising at least a fixed voltage and a maximum current.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] ACTUATOR FOR DRIVING A SCREEN

[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD AND PRIOR ART

[0004] The present invention relates to an actuator for driving a sun protection or occultation screen, such as a shutter, between several positions.

[0005] An example of an actuator for driving a sun protection or occultation screen between several positions is described in document EP3896247.

[0006] Such actuators for roller shutters or blinds comprise a torque support and a casing in which an electric motor, a reducer, one or more power batteries and at least partly, a control circuit are housed. The casing has a cylindrical shape of revolution. The torque support and the casing are mechanically connected to each other. The torque support or actuator head comprises support elements intended for mounting the actuator on a frame, i.e. on a fixed structure of a building in which it is installed.

[0007] The actuator is intended to be inserted at least partially into a winding tube on which the sun protection or occultation screen is intended to be wound.

[0008] The reducer is extended by an output shaft extending outside the housing and rotating relative to the housing for driving the winding tube in rotation, for example through a connecting accessory between the output shaft and the winding tube.

[0009] The control circuit is in the form of one or more electronic circuits. It manages in particular the power supply to be provided to the motor and the power supply to the batteries. The actuator includes a charging connector, in particular at the torque support or at the end of a charging cable exiting at a lateral or radial face of the torque support. The charging connector allows the battery(ies) to be connected to an external device for recharging the battery(ies).

[0010] Typically, the power supply device has a connector of a first type and the actuator has a compatible charging connector. This type of connector is satisfactory, however the connection ergonomics could be improved. In addition, it is desirable to be able to improve the charging process in order to increase the lifespan of the battery(ies).

[0011] STATEMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0012] It is therefore an aim of the present invention to provide an actuator for driving a sun protection or occultation screen between several positions, the power management of which is made more ergonomic and more efficient.

[0013] The aim stated above is achieved by an actuator for driving a sun protection or occultation screen between several positions, the actuator comprising an electric motor, a reduction gear, one or more batteries, a control circuit and an electrical connection of the battery or batteries for recharging the battery or batteries, said electrical connection comprising a charging connector. The actuator also comprises a torque support and a casing, housing the electric motor, the reduction gear, the battery or batteries and at least part of the control circuit. The charging connector is a standard connector, advantageously of the universal serial bus or USB (Universal Serial Bus in English terminology), very advantageously of the USB-C® type, version 3.0 or higher. The actuator is intended to cooperate with a power supply device comprising a standard connector corresponding to the standard connector of the actuator.According to the invention, the control circuit comprises means for transmitting a request for a power supply profile comprising at least one fixed voltage and one maximum current.

[0014] In an advantageous example, the actuator and its charging connector are configured to support a PD (Power Delivery) energy supply technology according to which a fixed voltage at the input of the actuator with a maximum current is adapted to the needs of the actuator according to the power profile selected by the actuator and transmitted by the actuator to the power supply device. For this purpose, the actuator, in particular the control circuit, comprises for example a regulator between the charging connector and the battery(ies). The regulator is configured to charge the battery(ies) according to the voltage and current level required by them from the voltage and current at the input of the charging connector. This allows rapid charging of the battery(ies).

[0015] Alternatively or in addition to PD technology, the actuator and its charging connector are configured to support a PPS (Programmable Power Supply) technology according to which the voltage and current are dynamically adapted according to the determined state of the battery(ies). The actuator is adapted to evaluate the power supply parameters of the battery(ies) and to transmit information relating to the evaluated power supply parameters via the standard charging connector. The exchange of information makes it possible to dynamically adjust the voltage and current delivered by the power supply device to the control circuit to appropriately recharge the battery(ies). Recharging is then carried out knowing the charge level of the battery(ies).These data exchanges take place, for example, on a regular basis, for example every 10 seconds or every minute or every 10 minutes. The actuator thus comprises means for evaluating the power supply parameters of the at least one battery and means for transmitting information relating to the power supply parameters evaluated via the standard charging connector. Thus, the required power supply profile is re-evaluated and renegotiated regularly to adapt to the needs of the battery(ies) with the aim of optimizing its charge, thus enabling efficient charging.

[0016] By optimizing the charge, the lifespan of the battery(ies) is increased.

[0017] In a particularly advantageous example, the standard connector is of the USB-C® type (also referred to as USB Type-C®). This connector has the advantage of being symmetrical, making it very easy to connect to a power supply device with a corresponding connector. In addition, the actuator supports PD power supply technology, compatible with versions 3.0 and higher of the USB-C® charging connector, which notably allows for fast charging and a high supply voltage.

[0018] Communication between the power supply device and the actuator allows the actuator to detect what type of power supply device it is connected to, either a power supply device connected to the mains or a photovoltaic panel. The power supply device is, for example, a device connected directly to the mains or a photovoltaic panel placed near the actuator, for example on the casing of the shading element, and provided with a connector for connection to the actuator's charging connector.

[0019] The charging procedure is then adapted to the type of power supply device.

[0020] This knowledge of the type of power device supplied by the actuator also makes it possible to adapt the feedback provided to the user, for example to indicate the state of the actuator, for example charging or charged.

[0021] In an exemplary embodiment, the actuator, its charging connector and the power supply device are configured to support a power supply technology according to at least a first power supply profile and a second power supply profile during a charging phase, the first power supply profile and the second power supply profile being distinct by at least one power supply profile parameter value, such that the power supply device supplies the voltage and the current according to the first power supply profile and the second power supply profile. One and / or the other of the actuator and the power supply device also comprises means configured to transmit an information signal to the user informing him at least that the recharging of the actuator is taking place according to at least one of the first and the second power supply profile.The user is then informed not only that the actuator is being charged, but also under what conditions this charging is taking place. In the example implementation where charging is carried out using power delivery technology, the user is informed and knows that charging is taking place in an optimized manner.

[0022] The means for emitting the information signal comprise, for example, a Zener diode interposed between the power source and a means configured to emit a signal, for example a light-emitting diode, said Zener diode becoming conductive for a supply voltage of the first or second power supply profile.

[0023] An object of the present invention is then an actuator for driving a sun protection or occultation screen between several positions, the actuator comprising an electric motor, a reducer, at least one battery powering the electric motor, a control circuit, a charging connector configured to allow the connection of the actuator to a power supply device of the at least one battery, said actuator also comprising a torque support and a longitudinal axis casing housing the electric motor, the reducer, the battery and at least part of the control circuit, the charging connector being a standard connector, said actuator being intended to cooperate with a power supply device comprising a standard connector corresponding to the standard connector of the actuator.The control circuit comprises means for transmitting, to the power supply device, a request for a power supply profile comprising at least a fixed voltage and a maximum current.

[0024] In an advantageous example, the control circuit comprises means for evaluating power supply parameters of the at least one battery and means for transmitting information relating to the power supply parameters evaluated through the standard charging connector.

[0025] For example, the charging connector has a plurality of pins, a portion of the pins being used for transmitting the power profile required by the actuator.

[0026] The control circuit may comprise a regulator disposed between the charging connector and the at least one battery, the regulator being configured to charge the at least one battery from the voltage and current at the input of the charging connector.

[0027] Preferably, the control circuit is configured to manage the power supply of the at least one battery according to a first mode when the voltage and current at the input of the charging connector correspond to the power supply profile required by the actuator, and according to a second mode when the voltage and current at the input of the charging connector differ from the power supply profile required by the actuator. For example, the control circuit comprises a user interface and is configured to send at least one piece of information through the interface to a user that differs depending on the power supply device connected to the actuator.

[0028] In an advantageous example, the control circuit comprises a first circuit board carrying a control circuit of the electric motor and a second circuit board carrying the charging connector, the second board being arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis at a longitudinal end of the housing, the charging connector being oriented radially relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0029] Advantageously, the second card comprises a first circular part and a second part arranged radially so as to form a projection relative to the outer contour of the first part, and the charging connector is fixed on the second card so as to extend mainly at the level of the projection.

[0030] The charging connector very advantageously comprises a plane of symmetry, and the second circuit card comprises a cutout in which the charging connector is mounted, said plane of symmetry being substantially parallel, in particular substantially coincident, with a plane in which the second card extends.

[0031] Preferably, the charging connector meets the USB-C® standard and is configured to transmit information using PD (Power Delivery) energy supply technology and possibly using PPS (Programmable Power Supply) programmable power supply technology.

[0032] Another object of the present invention is an assembly comprising at least one actuator according to the invention and a device for supplying power to the at least one battery of the actuator. The power supply device may comprise at least one standard connector compatible with the standard charging connector of the actuator and, when the power supply device is connected to the actuator and upon receipt of the request for a power supply profile comprising at least one fixed voltage and a maximum current, the power supply profile is chosen by the actuator according to the capacities provided by the charging device, the power supply device being configured to supply the voltage and current corresponding to the profile.

[0033] The charging connector and the power supply device advantageously comprise means of magnetic connection between them.

[0034] Another subject of the present application is a method for powering an actuator for driving a sun protection or occultation screen between several positions, the actuator comprising an electric motor, a reducer, at least one battery powering the electric motor, a control circuit, a charging connector configured to allow the connection of the actuator to a device for powering the at least one battery, said actuator also comprising a casing with a longitudinal axis housing the electric motor, the reducer, the battery and at least part of the control circuit, the charging connector being a standard connector, said actuator being intended to cooperate with a power supply device comprising a standard connector corresponding to the standard connector of the actuator,the control circuit comprising means for transmitting a request for a power supply profile comprising at least one fixed voltage and one maximum current to the power supply device, said method being implemented by the actuator and comprising at least one step of transmitting a request for a power supply profile comprising at least one fixed voltage and one maximum current by the control circuit to the power supply device and a step of supplying the at least one battery by the power supply device, advantageously according to the required power supply profile.,

[0035] In an exemplary operation, when establishing an electrical connection between the power supply device and the actuator, the actuator issues a request for a capability profile of the power supply device prior to the transmission step and, during a selection step, the actuator selects a power supply profile from among several profiles corresponding to the capability profile of the power supply device.

[0036] In another example of operation, the at least one battery powers an operation of the motor independently of the steps of the powering method.

[0037] In the absence of a request received by the power supply device, a step of supplying a fixed voltage and a minimum current to the actuator can be implemented by the power supply device.

[0038] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] The invention will be better understood with the aid of the description which follows and the attached drawings in which:

[0040] - Figure 1A is a side view of an example of an actuator for driving a sun protection or occultation screen according to the invention,

[0041] - Figure 1B is an exploded view of the actuator of Figure 1A,

[0042] - Figure 2A is a perspective view of an example of a charging connector adapted to the invention,

[0043] - Figure 2B is a perspective view of an example of a magnetic charging connector,

[0044] - Figure 2C is a perspective view of an example of an assembly of a magnetic charging connector and a connector of the magnetic power supply device, - Figure Brepresents a functional diagram of the connection between the actuator according to the invention and a power supply device,

[0045] - Figure 4 is a flowchart of an example of a method for recharging an actuator according to the invention,

[0046] - Figure 5 is a detailed view of an actuator head comprising means for informing the user of the progress of the charging of the battery(ies),

[0047] - figure 6 is a representation of an electrical circuit of the information means implemented according to an example of the invention,

[0048] - figure 7 is a representation of electrical circuits of the information means implemented according to another exemplary embodiment,

[0049] - Figure 8 is a front view of an example of a second card that can be implemented in the actuator of Figure 1A,

[0050] - Figure 9 is a perspective view of the second map of Figure 8,

[0051] - Figure 10 is a side view of a torque support incorporating the second board of Figure 8,

[0052] - Figure 11 is a perspective view of another example of an actuator torque support according to the invention,

[0053] - Figure 12 is a top view of the torque support of Figure 11.

[0054] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0055] In Figures 1A and 1B, a schematic representation of an actuator for driving a sun protection or occultation screen (not shown), such as a blind, shutter or other, between several positions can be seen.

[0056] The actuator Al has a generally cylindrical shape of revolution of axis X. The actuator Al comprises a torque head or support 1, a casing 2 of axis X, an electric motor 4 of axis X, a reducer 6, and an electric battery 8. The reducer 6 is extended by an output shaft 10 extending along the axis X intended to drive in rotation an element (not shown) belonging to the screen or a winding tube on which the screen is mounted.

[0057] The electric battery 8 can be composed of several electric batteries connected in parallel or in series.

[0058] The electric battery is intended to provide the electric power to the electric motor needed for its rotation.

[0059] The actuator further comprises a control circuit 12 of the electric motor formed by one or more circuit boards. This circuit 12 is connected to the motor 4 and to the battery 8. The electric battery is also intended to provide power to the control circuit 12. The control circuit comprises in particular a first circuit board 13 which, in the example shown, is arranged parallel to the X axis. The control circuit also comprises a second circuit board 15 which, in the example shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, is located at a longitudinal end of the casing in the torque support 1 and is arranged orthogonally to the X axis.

[0060] The control circuit includes an external communication unit enabling a communication link with an external device, in particular communication by radio frequency waves. The communication unit may be carried by one or more of the circuit boards of the control circuit.

[0061] The external communication unit includes in particular a radio frequency transceiver (via which screen movement commands can be transmitted from a radio remote control not shown) and physical communication elements for a user, such as a light diode or LED and / or a programming button.

[0062] In the example shown, the second circuit board 15 supports a battery charging connector 16. The charging connector 16 allows the actuator to be connected to an external power supply device, such as an external device connected to a mains socket, a photovoltaic panel or an external battery.

[0063] The torque support 1 has a window 18 through which the charging connector is accessible.

[0064] According to the invention, the charging connector 16 is a standard connector intended to cooperate with a power supply device 20 (shown schematically) comprising a standard connector corresponding to the standard connector of the actuator.

[0065] In this application, the term "standard connector" means a connector that is commonly used in other applications, particularly for recharging batteries, for example in electronic and / or computer applications. For example, the connector is a universal serial bus or USB connector (Universal Serial Bus in English terminology), a connector for transferring high-definition audio and video multimedia content known as an HDMI cable (High Definition Multimedia Interface in English terminology) or an 8-pin Lightning-type connector developed by Apple.

[0066] Furthermore, the control circuit comprises means for transmitting, to the power supply device, a request for a power supply profile comprising at least one fixed voltage and one maximum current. A power supply profile comprises in particular a given voltage value, called fixed voltage, and a maximum current value. It is understood that the voltage of the power supply profile actually supplied by the power supply device may vary significantly from the required fixed voltage, while remaining in the same order of magnitude.

[0067] Particularly advantageously, the charging connector 16 is a female USB Type-C or USB-C® connector shown alone in Figure 2A. This connector has the advantage of having two orthogonal planes of symmetry, it is reversible and non-polarized, which allows it to be easily connected in any direction, which facilitates connection to the charging source.

[0068] The female charging connector comprises a body 30 extending along a Y axis and having an oblong cross-section. The connector has an opening end 32 allowing the insertion of a corresponding male charging connector. The body 30 comprises fixing tabs 34 extending laterally on either side of the X axis. The tabs are intended to pass through the card and to be soldered on the opposite face.

[0069] The control circuit 12 advantageously comprises a regulator arranged between the charging connector 16 and the battery(ies) 8, the regulator being configured to charge the battery(ies) from the voltage and current at the input of the charging connector. The regulator allows adaptation of the charge from the profile actually transmitted by the power supply device; in fact, as will be described later, several profiles are possible. The regulator is an electronic component, also called a buck-boost Li-Ion battery charger. For example, in the case of a standard 5V USB connector, the voltage can reach 15V. At 5V, the regulator then adapts the charge for the batteries.

[0070] The charging connector 16 is intended to cooperate with a charging connector of the power supply device 20 (shown schematically in FIG. 2B) that is compatible. In this example, the power supply device comprises a male USB-C® connector 37 corresponding to the charging connector 16 of the actuator. This allows for easier connection, for example “blind”, in particular for an actuator that is difficult to access.

[0071] In a very advantageous example shown in Figure 2C, the charging connector of the power supply device 37' is itself connected to a magnetic adapter 35, which allows for easier connection, for example "blind", in particular for a difficult-to-access actuator. The connector 37' of the power supply device 20 is also magnetic to connect to the adapter. The magnetic securing means can be implemented with the various standard connectors mentioned above.

[0072] Furthermore, preferably the actuator supports PD technology, for Power Delivery in English terminology or Energy Supply, and even more preferably PD technology and PPS technology for Programmable Power Supply in English terminology or Programmable Power Supply, associated with the USB standard version 3.0 and following.

[0073] PD power delivery technology delivers more power to the battery and allows for faster charging than a connector not compatible with this technology.

[0074] PPS programmable power technology ensures regularly renegotiated communication between the battery and the power supply device, allowing the power supply device to dynamically adjust the voltage and current according to the battery charge state determined by the actuator. Regularly, all of these parameters change to adapt to the needs of the battery, which optimizes its charge, and extends the battery life.

[0075] Since the USB 3.0 PD PPS standard allows charging power to be adjusted according to the battery's needs, this results in reduced overheating, longer battery life and optimal charging.

[0076] PD and PPS technologies are supported by the actuator and the external power supply device.

[0077] When connecting the actuator to the power supply device, several exchanges take place consecutively, for example 4 or 5.

[0078] In Figure 3, a functional diagram of an example of a power supply device 20 connected to an actuator A1 according to the invention can be seen. The part delimited by the broken line represents a part of the control circuit.

[0079] The power supply device 20 has a male charging connector for connecting to the female charging connector 16 of the actuator.

[0080] The power supply device 20 comprises a control circuit 22 configured to support PD power supply technology and optionally PPS programmable power supply technology.

[0081] The 16 charging connector has 16 or 24 pins.

[0082] Among these pins, the GND ground, Vbus power, and CCI and CC2 data terminals are used. The VBus pins are used for actuator power. Very advantageously, the same VBUS pins are used regardless of the power supply device, whether it is a mains-connected device or a photovoltaic panel.

[0083] The CCI and CC2 pins are used for dialogue on power parameters (voltage, current) between the power supply device and the actuator. Very advantageously, the same CCI and CC2 pins are used for exchanges with a power supply device connected to the mains and with a photovoltaic panel. Other data is also transmitted from the second card to the first card, for example additional information on the human-machine interface, which may include for example the LED(s), the button(s), the industrial reset protocol, the resetting...

[0084] It can be expected that the same pins will be used during a recharge phase regardless of the power supply device.

[0085] By using the same pins, the number of electrical connections that need to be made between each of the connectors and the control circuit is limited.

[0086] In another exemplary embodiment, an Rx pin and a Tx pin are used for controlling and configuring the actuator in the factory or at the installation site. Thus, the charging connector can be used both for charging the battery(ies) and for controlling and configuring the actuator.

[0087] To do this, through the connection of the charging connector 16, connection or pairing and adjustment information can be implemented from an adjustment tool such as a personal computer or a specific installation tool, equipped with an output port comprising a standard connector compatible with the charging connector of the actuator.

[0088] Advantageously, the adjustment tool also comprises means for providing a power supply for recharging the actuator battery and human-machine interface means allowing an installer to enter data to be transmitted to the actuator control circuit.

[0089] Certain pins of the charging connector may thus be useful for providing the actuator with adjustment data and / or for retrieving from the actuator data useful for a diagnosis. The use of these pins for data transmission is independent of the presence or absence of a current or a supply voltage for recharging the battery: the adjustment steps may therefore take place simultaneously with a step of recharging the actuator battery. In this exemplary embodiment and in a non-limiting manner, the control circuit 12 shown partially comprises an integrated protection circuit 24 for the charging connector, this circuit protecting against the consequences of a short circuit. The integrated protection circuit may comprise transient voltage suppression diodes or TVS diodes (Transient Voltage Suppression in English terminology).This integrated protection circuit 24 is interposed between the connector and the control circuit. The control circuit also includes a switch 26 between the charging connector and the battery, the switch 26 is controlled by the integrated protection circuit 24.

[0090] The control circuit also includes a power management device 28 interposed between the battery and the switch 26 and controlled by the control circuit.

[0091] Very advantageously, a power supply method according to the invention is provided that can also be used in the case where the battery is completely discharged. This mode is called "dead battery" mode in English terminology. In this case of a discharged battery, the power supply method comprises a step of sending, by the power supply device, a low voltage to initiate communication with the actuator. For example, the minimum voltage to initiate communication is of the order of 5V. In particular, this sending step follows a predefined period following a connection between the actuator and the power supply device, during which, the actuator no longer being sufficiently charged to require a power supply profile, no information is received by the power supply device.

[0092] In this case, the step of sending a minimum voltage allows the actuator to initiate the step of transmitting a request in accordance with the power supply method.

[0093] The implementation of the invention also has the advantage of being able to adapt the charging process according to the outside temperature, which makes it possible to optimize the battery life. In particular, the internal temperature of the actuator is an additional parameter which can influence the choice of a profile to be required. Thus, the power profile required during the transmission step takes into account the temperature estimated or measured prior to transmission.

[0094] An example of the flow of a feeding process will now be described using Figure 4.

[0095] The actuator is first connected to a power supply device by the charging connector 16. Information exchanges between the actuator and the power supply device then take place.

[0096] During a capacity request step 100, the actuator requests the power supply device for its charging capacities. These are different depending on whether it is a power supply device connected to the mains or a photovoltaic panel. Indeed, for example, the power delivered by the power supply device on the mains is different from that delivered by the photovoltaic panel. They are also different depending on the technologies with which the power supply device is compatible, in particular PD and / or PPS technologies. In the case of this power supply device not compatible with PD or PPS technologies, the voltage and current values ​​that can be transmitted by the power supply device are unique and fixed.

[0097] In a step 200, the power supply device responds to the actuator by providing information on its capabilities, during a response step. Alternatively, the power supply device provides an available voltage and current during this response step.

[0098] In an optional evaluation step 300, the actuator evaluates the battery charging requirements, i.e. the power parameters adapted to the battery situation. This step takes place when the actuator supports PPS technology.

[0099] During a selection step 400 and in the case where the power supply device has provided information on its capacities, the actuator chooses a recharging profile according to the response of the power supply device. The recharging profile is advantageously selected from several profiles corresponding to the capacities of the power supply device and possibly according to the information relating to the power supply parameters evaluated. In an exemplary embodiment, the actuator selects from the profiles proposed by the power supply device, the one which best corresponds to the needs. In another exemplary embodiment, the actuator also comprises several current / voltage pairs which can be chosen to best correspond to the capacities of the power supply device.

[0100] During a transmission step 500, the actuator informs the power supply device of the selected profile by means of a power supply profile request. During a step 600, the power supply device then sets up the charging process according to the profile selected during a charging step.

[0101] In the alternative case where, following the connection between the actuator and the power supply device during step 200, the actuator receives a voltage and a current directly from the power supply device and before the selection step, steps 300 to 600 are omitted and the batteries are recharged using the voltage and current available at the input of the charging connector. It may then advantageously be provided to set up feedback to the user to signal non-optimal recharging, for example by means of a particular flashing of the light-emitting diode of the actuator. The actuator motor may advantageously rotate during the recharging phase.

[0102] Thanks to the invention, an interaction is established between the power supply device and the actuator which makes charging more efficient.

[0103] Furthermore, thanks to the invention, the type of power supply device is detectable by the actuator due to the exchange of information; this information also makes it possible to adapt the behavior of the actuator.

[0104] In addition, communication between the power supply device and the actuator allows selection of the best power profile for battery charging and therefore better charge management.

[0105] For example, it may be provided that the actuator provides feedback to the user on its state, for example charging or charged, by means of indicator lights, for example of the LED type, by moving the screen and / or by transmitting information to a device equipped with a display screen.

[0106] In the case of charging by a photovoltaic panel, charging is interrupted each time a cloud blocks the sun. In state-of-the-art actuators, feedback is sent each time charging stops and each time charging resumes, in particular by means of a brief movement of the screen, which can be considered by the user as a malfunction of the actuator.

[0107] The invention can make it possible to deactivate the emission of feedback in the case of charging by a photovoltaic panel, avoiding the emission of a message each time the sun appears and / or disappears. Alternatively, only the activation of one or more LEDs could be provided, and not the movement of the screen or the display of a message on a screen.

[0108] In another exemplary embodiment, the actuator comprises display means MS providing feedback on the progress of the load, in particular whether it is progressing in an optimized manner.

[0109] In this example, the actuator comprises display means MS comprising detection and information means configured to inform the user that the batteries of the actuator are being recharged according to a first profile and / or the second power supply profile.

[0110] In Figure 5, an actuator head can be seen with the display means MS, these comprising at least one LED.

[0111] The user can be the occupant of the building equipped with the blinds or blackout elements who recharges the actuator or an installer or a person in charge of installing and / or maintaining the actuators. For example, the first power profile provides a base voltage and the second power profile a negotiated voltage at a voltage higher than the base voltage.

[0112] In the case of a power supply device not compatible with PD or PPS technologies, the first profile corresponds to the voltage and current values ​​that can be transmitted by the power supply device, which are unique and fixed.

[0113] The display means MS comprise detection means for detecting that the batteries are being recharged at a voltage higher than the base voltage of the power supply device, and information means for informing the user when the batteries are being recharged at a voltage higher than the base voltage of the power supply device.

[0114] Preferably, the detection means comprise a Zener diode DZ arranged in series with a light-emitting diode or LED (Light Emitting Diode in English terminology), hereinafter referred to as LED, intended to inform the user that the charging is taking place according to at least one of the first and second power supply profiles. A protective ohmic resistor R is also provided in series. Alternatively, the detection means emit an audible signal, or even an audible signal and a light signal.

[0115] The detection means are connected in parallel to the power connector so as to be powered by the voltage supplied by the power supply device.

[0116] The voltage designated Vbus applied by the power supply device applies to the terminals of the MS display means.

[0117] In Figure 6, a schematic representation of an electrical circuit of the MS display means can be seen.

[0118] The Zener diode is arranged upstream of the LED with respect to the VBUS pin for connection to the power supply device. The threshold voltage of the Zener diode is higher than the base voltage supplied by the power supply device and associated with the first power supply profile, typically 5 volts, and lower than the optimal recharge voltage, for example 15V, associated with the second power supply profile. The optimal recharge voltage has a value of the same order of magnitude as the motor supply voltage, i.e. of the same order of magnitude as the voltage of the battery(ies) together.

[0119] The threshold voltage is for example equal to 12V for an optimal voltage value substantially equal to 15V. The threshold voltage is for example equal to 18V for an optimal voltage substantially equal to 20V. Thus, in general, the threshold voltage of the Zener diode is chosen to be a few volts lower than the optimal threshold voltage. In the case where the display means MS are carried by the actuator, the Zener diode is advantageously mounted on the second electronic circuit. The size is then not increased as much as only one LED is used, which is particularly advantageous since the space available on the head of the actuator is generally reduced.

[0120] This all-or-nothing implementation: LED off / LED on has the advantage of not having to implement software control to manage the lighting of the LED, only the Zener diode intervenes.

[0121] In another embodiment, the display means MS comprise, instead of the Zener diode, an electronic assembly comprising a voltage comparator.

[0122] The sequence of a method for supplying the actuator of Figure 5 comprising the display means MS is close to that shown in Figure 4 and detailed above. Steps 100 to 500 are similar.

[0123] In step 600, when the selected profile is compatible with a voltage higher than the base voltage of the first power supply profile, the power supply device triggers a supply of the power supply voltage corresponding to the optimal voltage of the second power supply profile. This voltage is higher than the threshold voltage (Zener voltage) of the Zener diode, as a result of which the diode becomes conductive and the light-emitting diode LED is powered, it lights up. This thus makes it possible to inform the user that the actuator is being charged according to the second power supply profile. He can deduce from this that the recharge will be relatively fast.

[0124] If the power supply device, for example a photovoltaic panel, is not able to supply a voltage higher than the threshold voltage, the actuator continues to charge but the LED does not light up, and the user is thus also informed that charging is not taking place optimally. He can deduce that charging will take a certain time and make arrangements.

[0125] In another exemplary embodiment, the detection means are such that for a voltage lower than the threshold voltage, i.e. the base voltage, the LED flashes and for a voltage higher than the threshold voltage, i.e. the optimal voltage, the LED is lit continuously. This exemplary embodiment has the advantage of informing that a recharge is actually taking place (flashing LED), even if the recharge phase is not optimal. However, in order to control this change of state of the LED as a function of the supply voltage, a software command is integrated into the second printed circuit, into an additional printed circuit or into a microprocessor on the second card. In another exemplary embodiment, the display means MS' comprise two light-emitting diodes of different colors, each integrated into a power supply circuit shown schematically in Figure 7.

[0126] One of the light-emitting diodes, for example a red light-emitting diode, designated LED R, is integrated into a circuit comprising a Zener diode as already described above and intended to light up for a voltage greater than a threshold voltage. A green light-emitting diode, designated LED G, is integrated into a circuit comprising only the green light-emitting diode LED G and an ohmic resistor R'. The green light-emitting diode LED G lights up as soon as a supply voltage is applied. In this exemplary embodiment, the user is informed as soon as a recharge according to the first supply profile is applied to the actuator by the illumination of the green light-emitting diode LED G and then, that the recharge is optimal by the illumination of the red light-emitting diode LED R as soon as the second supply profile is set up. During optimal recharge, both LEDs are lit.

[0127] Alternatively, both LEDs are the same color and the fact that both LEDs are lit informs the user of optimal charging.

[0128] The actuator motor can advantageously rotate during the recharging phase.

[0129] In another example, it is the power supply device that comprises the display means MS. The display means MS can then detect the implementation of the provision of the second power supply profile or when the power supply device switches from the first power supply profile to the second power supply profile, and inform the user thereof.

[0130] For example, the MS means are connected in parallel with the connector of the power supply device. Thus they see the voltage supplied by the power supply device to the actuator. All the examples of MS display means described which are integrated into the actuator apply to the power supply device. In particular, the Zener diode is mounted on a third electronic circuit arranged in the connector of the power supply device and the space requirement is not increased by as much as only one LED is used.

[0131] In the example described above, the voltage is the parameter that varies between the two power supply profiles; in the case where it is another parameter, such as the current and / or time or several parameters, the display means MS comprise an electronic circuit adapted to detect the transition from one profile to the other on the basis of this or these parameters and to emit a signal. In another exemplary embodiment, it is both the actuator and the power supply device that comprise the display means MS, thus depending on the visibility of the actuator and the power supply device, the user is always informed of the progress of the recharging.

[0132] In the particular example described, the user is informed when charging is proceeding according to the second profile or according to the first profile and then the second profile. It could be provided that a signal is emitted when charging is proceeding according to the first profile and that the signal emission stops when charging is proceeding according to the second profile.

[0133] Figures 8 to 12 show a very advantageous example of the placement of the charging connector on the second board.

[0134] The second circuit board 15 is intended to be arranged at a longitudinal end of the actuator perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X, so that the Y axis of the connector is orthogonal to the X axis. In particular, the second board is mounted in the torque support 1 of the actuator, at least partly outside the diameter of the actuator housing.

[0135] The second circuit board 15 is in the form of a printed circuit board having a general half-moon shape configured to fit into the cross-section of the torque support 1.

[0136] The charging connector 16 is mounted through the second circuit board 15 which has a cutout 38 opening into a rounded edge of the board 15. In this example, the connector is oriented radially so that its open end is oriented towards the outside of the board. The second circuit board 15 has through passages (not visible) for the insertion of fixing tabs 34 which are then folded and / or soldered on the opposite face of the second circuit board.

[0137] In the example shown, the second circuit board 15 comprises two connectors 40 on its opposite face which are connected to the connector and are oriented perpendicular to the plane of the second board, so that their open end is oriented in the longitudinal axis of the actuator. This configuration is particularly advantageous because it allows the ribbon cable(s) 42 connecting the connector to the first circuit board 13 (FIG. 1A) to be plugged into the connector in the axis of the actuator, without being folded.

[0138] The implementation of two smaller connectors allows easier integration than the implementation of a single large connector. Preferably, the two connectors 40 have a different number of pins, which ensures a keying function during assembly. It will be understood that a second circuit board 15 comprising a single connector 40 does not depart from the scope of the present invention.

[0139] A cover 39 covers the longitudinal end of the torque support. It has a circular shape provided with a bottom 39.1 and a rim 39.2. A window 41 is made in the rim 39.2 of the cover 39, giving access to the open end of the charging connector (figure 10).

[0140] This design has the advantage of having a torque support with limited radial size.

[0141] In Figures 11 and 12, another example of a second circuit board and another example of a torque support 1 are shown.

[0142] In this example, the second circuit board 15' comprises a portion 15.1' in the form of a disc portion corresponding to the general section of the torque support of the actuator and a portion 15.2' of substantially rectangular shape projecting from the outer periphery of the disc. The dimension d of the portion 15.2' in the radial direction is sufficient so that a large portion of the body 30 of the charging connector in the radial direction is located mainly outside the diameter of the circular section of the actuator casing. This arrangement makes it possible to free the central zone of the second circuit board 15' in the extension of the actuator casing and also the central zone of the torque support to possibly accommodate larger electronic components.

[0143] Since the central area of ​​the 15' board is almost entirely available, it is possible to provide a cut-out capable of accommodating different forms of force-recovery support and thus make the actuator compatible with a large number of support devices for sunscreen or occultation devices.

[0144] The actuator housing has a circular cross-section. The torque support may have a cross-section on its larger diameter part in the form of a disc, provided with a substantially rectangular projection. The cover has a suitable shape. Its side wall has a window for access to the connector.

[0145] The torque support is shaped to surround the second 15' card with its projection.

[0146] In the example shown, the actuator's charging connector is a female connector. Alternatively, the actuator comprises a male charging connector, compatible with a power supply device provided with a female connector.

[0147] An actuator in which the charging connector is external to the actuator and is connected to the control circuit by a cable does not depart from the scope of the present application.

[0148] An actuator in which the charging connector is arranged so that it is parallel to the X-axis or inclined relative to the X-axis does not depart from the scope of the present application.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Actuator for driving a sun protection or occultation screen between several positions, the actuator comprising an electric motor (4), a reduction gear (6), at least one battery (8) supplying the electric motor, a control circuit (12), a charging connector (16) configured to allow the connection of the actuator to a power supply device of the at least one battery (8), said actuator also comprising a torque support and a casing (2) of longitudinal axis (X) housing the electric motor, the reduction gear, the battery and at least part of the control circuit, the charging connector (16) being a standard connector, said actuator being intended to cooperate with a power supply device (20) comprising a standard connector corresponding to the standard connector of the actuator, characterized in that the control circuit comprises means for transmitting, to the power supply device,a request for a power profile including at least a fixed voltage and a maximum current., 2. Actuator according to claim 1, in which the control circuit comprises means for evaluating power supply parameters of the at least one battery and means for transmitting information relating to the power supply parameters evaluated through the standard charging connector.

3. An actuator according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the charging connector (16) comprises a plurality of pins, a portion of the pins being used for transmitting the power profile required by the actuator.

4. Actuator according to one of claims 1 to 3, in which the control circuit comprises a regulator arranged between the charging connector and the at least one battery, the regulator being configured to charge the at least one battery from the voltage and current at the input of the charging connector.

5. Actuator according to one of claims 1 to 4, in which the control circuit is configured to manage the power supply of the at least one battery according to a first mode when the voltage and current at the input of the charging connector correspond to the power supply profile required by the actuator, and according to a second mode when the voltage and current at the input of the charging connector differ from the power profile required by the actuator.

6. Actuator according to claim 5, wherein the control circuit (12) comprises a user interface and is configured to send at least one piece of information through the interface to a user which differs depending on the power supply device (20) connected to the actuator.

7. Actuator according to one of claims 1 to 6, in which the control circuit (12) comprises a first circuit card carrying a control circuit of the electric motor and a second circuit card carrying the charging connector (16), the second card being arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X) at a longitudinal end of the casing, the charging connector being oriented radially relative to the longitudinal axis (X).

8. Actuator according to claim 7, in which the second card (15) comprises a first circular part and a second part arranged radially so as to form a projection relative to the external contour of the first part, and in which the charging connector (16) is fixed on the second card (15) so as to extend mainly at the level of the projection.

9. Actuator according to claim 7 or 8, in which the charging connector (16) comprises a plane of symmetry, and the second circuit card comprises a cutout in which the charging connector is mounted, said plane of symmetry being substantially parallel, in particular substantially coincident, with a plane in which the second card (15) extends.

10. Actuator according to one of claims 1 to 9, in which the charging connector meets the USB-C® standard and is configured to transmit information using a PD (Power Delivery) energy supply technology and possibly using a PPS (Programmable Power Supply) programmable power supply technology.

11. Assembly comprising at least one actuator according to one of claims 1 to 10 and a power supply device (20) for the at least one battery (8) of the actuator, in which said power supply device (20) comprises at least one standard connector compatible with the standard charging connector (16) of the actuator and in which, when the power supply device is connected to the actuator and upon receipt of the request for a power profile comprising at least a fixed voltage and a maximum current, the power profile is chosen by the actuator based on the capacities provided by the recharging device, the power device being configured to provide the voltage and current corresponding to the profile.

12. An assembly according to claim 11, wherein the actuator and its charging connector are configured to support a power supply technology according to at least a first power profile and a second power profile during a charging phase, the first power profile and the second power profile being distinct by at least one power profile parameter value, such that the power supply device supplies the voltage and the current according to the first power profile and the second power profile, and wherein the actuator and / or the power supply device comprises display means configured to inform the user that a phase of recharging of the battery by the power supply device is taking place according to at least one of the first and second power profiles.

13. System according to claim 11, wherein, during a recharging phase, the system is configured so that the actuator is powered by the power supply device, successively according to the first power supply profile and according to the second power supply profile.

14. System according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the display means are connected in parallel with the power connector of the actuator or in parallel with the connector of the power supply device.

15. System according to one of claims 12 to 14, in which the display means comprise at least a first electrical circuit comprising at least a first indicator light (LED), advantageously a light-emitting diode, intended to light up when the recharging phase takes place according to at least one of the first and second power supply profiles.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the first electrical circuit comprises at least one Zener diode in series with the indicator light (LED), and wherein the threshold voltage of the Zener diode is greater than a voltage value associated with the first power supply profile.

17. System according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the first indicator light lights up when the recharging phase is taking place according to the second power profile and remains off when the recharging phase is taking place according to the first power profile.

18. System according to claim 15, 16 or 17, in which the display means comprise a second electrical circuit comprising a second indicator light and an ohmic resistor in series, the first and second electrical circuits being connected so that the second indicator light lights up as soon as the actuator is powered according to the first power profile by the power supply device and the first indicator light lights up when the recharging phase takes place according to the second power profile.

19. System according to claim 15 or 16, in which the display means are configured so that the first indicator light flashes as soon as a voltage is supplied by the power supply device according to the first power supply profile and the first indicator light lights up permanently as soon as the actuator is supplied according to the second power supply profile.

20. Assembly according to one of claims 1 to 19, in which the charging connector (16) and the power supply device comprise means for magnetic connection between them.

21. Method for powering an actuator for driving a sun protection or occultation screen between several positions, the actuator comprising an electric motor (4), a reducer (6), at least one battery (8) powering the electric motor, a control circuit (12), a charging connector (16) configured to allow the connection of the actuator to a power supply device of the at least one battery (8), said actuator also comprising a casing (2) of longitudinal axis (X) housing the electric motor, the reducer, the battery and at least part of the control circuit, the charging connector (16) being a standard connector, said actuator being intended to cooperate with a power supply device (20) comprising a standard connector corresponding to the standard connector of the actuator,the control circuit comprising means for transmitting a request for a power supply profile comprising at least one fixed voltage and a maximum current to the power supply device, said method being implemented by the actuator and comprising at least one step of transmitting a request for a profile, power supply comprising at least one fixed voltage and a maximum current by the control circuit to the power supply device and a step of supplying the at least one battery by the power supply device, advantageously according to the required power supply profile. 22 A power supply method according to claim 21, wherein, when establishing an electrical connection between the power supply device and the actuator, the actuator issues a request for a capability profile of the power supply device prior to the transmission step and wherein, during a selection step, the actuator selects a power supply profile from among several profiles corresponding to the capability profile of the power supply device.

23. Power supply method according to one of claims 21 or 22, in which the at least one battery supplies operation of the engine independently of the steps of the power supply method.

24. Power supply method according to one of claims 21 to 23, wherein in the absence of a request received by the power supply device, a step of supplying a fixed voltage and a minimum current to the actuator is implemented by the power supply device.

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