Plant protection device, particularly for plants in rows

Abstract

Plant protection device (1) comprising at least one protection module (10) which includes a support structure (2) and a protective cover (3) wound on a winding shaft (5) which has two hollow ends, the cover (3) being able to be deployed using the support structure (2) along two lateral sides (30, 31) on either side of the winding shaft and parallel to it, the support structure (2) having at least two end posts (20), roller support means (8), two pairs of arms (6) which are articulated with respect to the two posts (20) and which are able to pivot between a folded position parallel to the posts, for which the cover is wound, and a deployed position for which the cover is unwound, as well as roller lifting blocking means (9) and roller limiting means (84A, 84B).At each end post (20), the roller support means (8) comprise a bearing (80) and a connecting shaft (81), the connecting shaft being able to be engaged inside a hollow termination of the winding shaft (5) and to be fixed there securely while resting directly on the bearing (80).

Description

Title of the invention: Device for protecting plants, in particular plants in rows

[0001] The invention relates to the field of protecting plants, particularly against bad weather, in particular plants arranged in lines or rows.

[0002] The invention will be more particularly described with regard to a protection device intended to be arranged above rows of vines, without however being limited thereto. The invention applies to any type of plants, the plants being able to be arranged in rows or not, and above which a waterproof protective cover is able to be deployed. The invention is notably used to protect plants from hail, snow, frost, rain, humidity, which endanger harvests and / or which are factors in the development of diseases such as mildew and powdery mildew. The protection device of the invention can be applied to other uses such as also protection against the sun or to obtain isolation of the plant in order to protect it against treatment aimed at plants located nearby.

[0003] Such devices with protective tarpaulins which are folded up when the weather conditions are favorable and which can be deployed during bad weather or humidity, are mainly intended to limit, or even eliminate, phytopharmaceutical (phytosanitary) treatments or to constitute a shade or even to form an isolation protection in relation to treatments of nearby plants.

[0004] Protective devices are known comprising, on the one hand, a support frame provided with two spaced posts and two pairs of articulated arms which are capable of being deployed and folded via a maneuvering system, and on the other hand, a waterproof protective cover of the plastic tarpaulin type, unrollable and supported by the two posts and two pairs of articulated arms. As a known example, patent application WO2022208483 describes a protective device comprising a protective tarpaulin wound in the form of a roll around a winding shaft and being capable of being unrolled by forming on the longitudinal sides of the winding shaft, two lateral panels of waterproof cover in the manner of a roof with an inverted V-section.Each of the free longitudinal edges of each cover panel, opposite and parallel to the winding shaft, is supported by an elongated element whose two ends are fixed to two opposite articulation arms of the pairs of arms respectively. In addition, elastic return means are provided to assist in the more rapid deployment of the cover, the elastic means proposed are elastic elements which are integrated into the arms, or even are constituted by the arms. themselves which, being totally elastic, confer, according to this document, a certain flexibility to the framework which bends elastically under the effect of the impacts of the gusts of wind on the roofing, which avoids damaging the other rigid elements of the framework. Furthermore, the roller is supported at its two opposite distal ends, by bearing means which are arranged in the upper part of the two spaced posts, and said roller is blocked in vertical translation by a locking system to prevent it from lifting while being limited in movement on its sides (lateral direction) by the structural combination of the bearing means and the locking system.

[0005] In a first embodiment of this document, the bearing means consist of three rotating rollers spaced apart to form a support cradle for the roller, and the roller locking system consists of a complex-shaped part in order to be fixed to the three rollers while having to be arranged above the roller. In addition, when it is a question of arranging several modules juxtaposed longitudinally to increase the length of the protective cover, the roller and its winding shaft are provided in several sections connected to each other, two shaft sections being mechanically connected at the bearing means by a coupling member which is mounted to slide freely in the two shaft sections and on which is threaded a compression spring which bears on the two shaft ends.In a second embodiment which also provides for connecting two winding shafts to abut two protection modules, the bearing means comprises a bearing body fixed to a post and a rotating ring mounted in rotation in the bearing body and held between two circular discs. The rotating ring is provided with a central through bore and receives a coupling member which is fitted by its two ends into two consecutive winding shafts, the central bore of the rotating ring being of straight section to receive in coupling the coupling member which has a prismatic section and the coupling member being mounted in free sliding between the two winding shafts.

[0006] However, the protection device of this document has several drawbacks. In particular, the bearing means and the roller locking system are complicated and expensive to manufacture as well as tedious to install when assembling the device on site. Indeed, they comprise numerous parts, which it is also appropriate for the first embodiment to arrange in relation to each other in a suitable manner. In addition, the parts are subject to a lot of friction, on the one hand, the rotating ring which houses the coupling member, and on the other hand the bearing body which houses the rotating ring. Furthermore, the connection system leads to a gap between the ends of the two rollers facing each other, which exceeds 100 mm, resulting in a lack of sealing between the protection modules. The document does indeed propose adding sealing flaps between two consecutive modules at the connection space, but this adds parts to be designed and does not make the device simple to implement, especially when it comes to joining several protection modules over a hundred meters or more. In addition, the device does not absorb stresses in the event of deformation of the post (due, for example, to uneven terrain). Indeed, although the coupling member is free to slide, in reality the two winding shafts have no possibility of freedom of movement relative to each other, especially since the coupling member is of straight section.In reality, the free sliding assembly of the connecting member creates an angular clearance between the winding shafts, especially over long lengths, causing a winding offset and a twisting phenomenon of the roll. Finally, the elastic arms do not prove to be so judicious in practice, because in the event of wind, the roofing panels tend to deform and not remain perfectly parallel to the longitudinal axis of the roll, and when it comes to folding the roofing by rolling it up, the roofing rolls up at an angle creating folds and excess thickness, which over time when unfolding and folding, deteriorates the roofing, and moreover requires more force to manually maneuver the winding or more motor power in the case of motorized maneuvering.This elastic arm design contributes even more to significant torsions on the winding shafts in the case of long lengths, preventing the device from functioning properly.

[0007] The invention therefore aims to propose a plant protection device which does not have the aforementioned drawbacks and which is of simple design and quick to implement and optimizes manufacturing costs. In a complementary manner, the invention aims to reinforce the rigidity of the protection device while remaining simple in design and systematically ensuring correct rolling of the protective cover without imposing stress constraints on the motorization in the event of motorized maneuver.

[0008] According to the invention, the plant protection device comprises at least one protection module which comprises a supporting structure, a protective cover (such as a plastic film), a longitudinally oriented winding shaft, having two opposite hollow ends and around which the cover is wound to take the form of a roll, the cover being able to be deployed using the supporting structure along two lateral sides on either side of the winding shaft and parallel to it, the supporting structure comprising at least two spaced posts also called end posts of a protection module, and two pairs of arms which are articulated relative to the two posts and which are capable of pivoting between a folded position parallel to the posts for which the cover is rolled up, and a deployed position for which the cover is unrolled, as well as roller support means, which are fixed to the end posts (at the upper end of the posts) and which comprise at each end post, a (single) bearing and a connecting axis capable of being engaged inside the hollow end of the winding shaft, and the device further comprising means for locking the roller when lifting and means for limiting the lateral movement of the roller.The plant protection device is characterized in that the connecting shaft (in particular by one of its distal ends) is capable of being fixed securely inside the hollow end of the winding shaft (so as to block the connecting shaft from sliding longitudinally), and in that the connecting shaft rests directly on the bearing (and outside the winding shaft).

[0009] According to one characteristic, the connecting shaft has a cylindrical body, preferably of circular section, which comprises two opposite distal ends, one of the distal ends cooperating with the inside of a hollow termination of the winding shaft, while its other distal end is intended to cooperate with operating means acting on the rotation of the connecting shaft and therefore on the rotation of the winding shaft to unwind or wind the cover, or is intended to be fixed inside a hollow termination of another winding shaft of an additional protection module to be joined to said (first) protection module.

[0010] According to one characteristic, the bearing of the support means comprises a receiving housing for the (direct) support (of the body of) the connecting shaft, in particular the receiving housing being in the form of a cradle which has two opposite walls forming two lateral support stops for the connecting shaft and providing (in part) the means for limiting the lateral movement of the roller, preferably the receiving housing having a V-shaped profile and being able to have a coating with a low coefficient of friction such as PTFE. This V-shaped profile also makes it possible to ensure automatic centering of the connecting shaft which is preferably of circular section and to limit the contact surface with respect to friction.

[0011] Thus, the protection device of the invention has the advantage of being simple in design and does not require many parts for the production of the support means. The support means comprise just at each end post, a connecting shaft and a single bearing to accommodate, and this directly, the connecting shaft (unlike the second embodiment of the aforementioned patent application). The connecting shaft allows direct connection to the winding shaft, and unlike the aforementioned patent application for which the support means cooperate (for the first embodiment) in three zones of the exterior of the roll to support the rolled-up cover, via three separate parts in the form of rollers and a complementary part holding the rollers in position, the support means of the invention allow direct cooperation with the winding shaft. This reduces the number of parts of the support means, reduces friction, avoids any contact with the cover during deployment and winding, and simplifies motorization in the case of motorized maneuvering means. In addition, the bearing and the connecting shaft, through their direct cooperation, allow rapid fixing of the rolled-up cover to the end posts.

[0012] Furthermore, a connecting shaft is fixed integrally to the hollow interior of each termination of a winding shaft, and not mounted in free sliding. Finally, as will be highlighted later, the number of parts is minimized, in particular it is only a single part for the connecting connecting shaft when it comes to butting and connecting two protection modules. In addition, there is no need to add sealing flaps because the spacing between two protection modules, and therefore two protection covers, is minimal without exceeding 50 mm.

[0013] In the remainder of the description, the terms “height”, “vertical”, “horizontal” and the qualifiers “upper”, “lower”, “high” and “low” of an element of the device are used in the context of a normal installation of the device, that is to say relating to a vertical notion in relation to a ground on which the device would be placed.

[0014] The term "roller" means the assembly comprising the winding shaft and the wound protective cover.

[0015] According to one characteristic, the bearing (the single bearing) integrates the means for limiting the lateral movement of the roller (which constitute the means for limiting the lateral movement of the connecting shaft associated with the bearing), in particular the bearing comprising a receiving housing in the form of a cradle which has two opposite walls constituting two opposite lateral stops called support stops on which the connecting shaft bears directly and continuously, and in a complementary manner the bearing comprising in a plane offset and parallel to the cradle, two complementary lateral stops called locking stops, between which the connecting shaft passes with a spacing clearance and which are intended to temporarily cooperate with the connecting shaft to block it from pivoting only in the event of lateral pivoting of a winding shaft. The support stops and the locking stops form the means for limiting the lateral movement of the roller.Thus and advantageously, the means for limiting the lateral movement of the roller further comprise two complementary lateral stops called locking stops, between which the connecting shaft passes with a spacing clearance, the connecting shaft being intended to temporarily cooperate with the locking stops to be locked in pivoting (when it pivots due to the pivoting of a winding shaft). Preferably, the two stops. blocking constitute the internal edge of the two opposite walls of a groove with which the bearing is equipped, the groove being in a plane offset from the receiving housing or cradle and allowing the crossing with a spacing clearance, of the connecting axis resting in said receiving housing or cradle. The connecting axis is already stopped by the support stops, but if the roller, and therefore its winding shaft, pivots laterally between its two ends, to the left or to the right, the connecting axis also driven in pivoting (because it is fixed integrally to the winding shaft) is stopped, without being able to pivot further, by the lateral blocking stops.

[0016] In particular, the connecting shaft (the body of the connecting shaft) comprises a peripheral groove (at a distance from the distal end cooperating with the winding shaft, and therefore a groove external to the winding shaft) which (in the mounted position of the connecting shaft) is in the same plane as that of the two locking stops, preferably the width of the groove being greater than the thickness of each of the lateral stops so as to be able to provide angular clearance between the bearing and the connecting shaft. The thicker dimension of the groove than that of the locking stops engaging in the groove makes it possible to provide angular clearance for the bearing which can thus pivot both around a vertical axis and a horizontal axis following the deformation undergone by the post (which can lean or turn) due for example to irregularities in the ground.Therefore, the connecting shaft is a simple part to machine, just providing it with a groove and at least two fixing points to make it integral with the winding shaft. In addition, the groove then constitutes a simple means of cooperation with the locking stops to limit and block the lateral movement of the connecting shaft (i.e. in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the connecting shaft), and consequently to limit and block the lateral movement of the winding shaft and therefore the roller, while nevertheless allowing angular play.

[0017] According to one characteristic, the means for locking the roller in lifting cooperate directly with the bearing of each end post so as to be able to directly lock (in lifting) the connecting axis. There is then no need for a complex part, nor to position oneself above the roller. The roller is locked in lifting by locking the connecting axis in lifting.

[0018] Preferably, the lifting locking means comprise an attached locking flange which is capable of cooperating with a part of the bearing, located above the connecting axis resting on said bearing (resting in the receiving housing or cradle of said bearing). In particular, the part of the bearing with which the flange cooperates comprises, on each side and above the receiving housing or cradle, spaced tabs each provided with a passage orifice for the flange.

[0019] Preferably, the bearing comprises, for supporting the connecting shaft, a receiving housing with a cradle function, preferably the receiving housing having a V shape to limit the bearing surface of the connecting shaft which is preferably of circular section, and the receiving housing may have a coating with a low coefficient of friction such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, also known under the name Teflon®).

[0020] According to one characteristic, the bearing comprises two parts fixed to each other, the first part having the function of bearing by comprising a receiving housing on which the connecting shaft rests and the function of means for limiting lateral movement of the roller by comprising lateral support stops, and the second part, preferably such as a plate, which is fixed against a main face of the first part, having the function of fixing the bearing to the end post, the function of receiving the means for blocking the lifting of the roller and a complementary function of limiting and even a function of blocking lateral movement of the roller.Preferably, the second part is a plate comprising a groove through which the connecting shaft passes (with a spacing clearance) and the edge of its two opposite walls of which constitute two lateral stops for blocking the lateral movement of the connecting shaft (and therefore constitute the means for limiting, in particular blocking, the lateral movement of the roller), an extension lower than the groove which constitutes a fixing surface with an end post to ensure the function of fixing the bearing, and a part upper than the groove and preferably projecting relative to the general plane of the plate, which is capable of receiving the means for blocking the lifting of the roller such as a flange.This two-piece bearing solution allows the bearing to be manufactured at a lower cost; the first bearing part is, for example, a piece (generally parallelepiped in shape) made of plastic which has been cut to form the housing for the connecting pin, in particular in the shape of a V, and the second part or plate is a metal part a few millimeters thick machined with cutouts (including the groove) and bending (bending for the tabs for cooperation with the flange). The plate is fixed to the bearing part by screwing, for example.As a variant, of course, the bearing can be made in one piece and, for example, made from a molded part to provide the receiving housing (the cradle) with the lateral support stops, the area (in the lower part) for fixing the bearing to an end post, the groove and its lateral locking stops for locking the connecting shaft in lateral movement (the groove being opposite and in extension of the cradle), and the part for receiving the locking means in lifting (in the upper part relative to the cradle).

[0021] According to one feature, a functional clearance is provided inside each hollow termination of the winding shaft relative to the connecting axis, in particular all around the connecting axis. This functional clearance allows the winding bar to pivot if necessary, relative to the connecting axis, either laterally, or upwards or downwards, which allows the protective cover to always be wound parallel to the winding shaft, especially over long lengths when several protection modules are connected to each other, and thus avoids creases and localized excess thickness of the cover.

[0022] Preferably, at least the hollow ends of the winding shaft are parallelepipedal, which facilitates the screw fixing of the connecting shaft. Advantageously, the connecting shaft is fixed integrally to a hollow end of the winding shaft in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the winding shaft, screw-type fixing means cooperating in two opposite zones with the winding shaft and the connecting shaft, and being capable of immobilizing the winding shaft relative to the connecting shaft in the direction passing through the screws. The winding shaft is immobilized relative to the connecting axis in the direction passing through the screws, while having angular pivoting freedom relative to the connecting axis and relative to an axis perpendicular to the axis of the screws.The combination of this attachment and the functional clearance (spacing) between the connecting pin and the winding shaft prevents an angular offset between the two winding shafts connected by the connecting pin when the cover is rolled up or unrolled; all the winding shafts have a rotary movement which takes place in phase (concomitantly).

[0023] According to one feature, the connecting shaft has two distal ends which are each provided with a pair of diametrically opposite fixing threads, the pairs of threads being arranged at 90° to each other. The two pairs of fixing threads make it possible to fix the connecting shaft to two winding shafts to be butted, and the 90° arrangement allows the winding shafts to pivot independently relative to the connecting shaft.

[0024] According to one feature, each roofing panel comprises as a framework, the winding shaft, an elongate element parallel to the winding shaft and coupled to a free longitudinal end edge of the roofing (opposite the winding shaft) as well as two parallel and opposite arms fixed to the two respective end posts and to each end of the elongate element, the arms and the elongate element being rigid. Advantageously, the arms and the elongate elements are rigid, which provides, for each roofing panel, in combination with the winding shaft (which is of course rigid) a framework in the shape of a rigid parallelogram. This allows constant maintenance in the shape of a rigid parallelogram during the opening and closing of the arms with a tension on the roofing sheet which is uniform. Winding is thus made easier and reliable since it is always made strictly parallel to the winding shaft, which also avoids any constraints on the operating means. In the event of uneven ground or even in the event of wind, the entire parallelogram follows the deformation of the supporting structure thanks to the functional clearances put in place at the level of the connection axis of each post, both with the winding shaft and with each bearing.

[0025] According to one characteristic, the two articulated arms of a pair are fixed in a proximal part of a post (end post and intermediate post when there are intermediate posts) at two articulation points, preferably via at least one interface and reinforcement part fixed on the post, the interface part comprising a first part projecting relative to the post (opposite the other end post) and on which the two articulation points are arranged and a second part projecting from the post, integral with the first part and fixed to the post as a strut.

[0026] According to one characteristic, the protection device comprises per post one or more tensioners which are fixed to a proximal part of the post, in particular to the interface and reinforcement piece, and externally to each of the arms of a pair of arms associated with the post.

[0027] According to one feature, the protection device comprises at least two abutting protection modules, each protection module having its winding shaft, and at each of the ends of said winding shaft, a connecting shaft coupled to a bearing itself fixed to an end post, a connecting shaft connecting the two winding shafts of the two protection modules by being fixed in their respective hollow end and resting on the bearing which is located at the junction (and externally) of the two winding shafts. In particular, the connecting shaft is used as a connecting piece between the supporting structure, in particular a bearing, and the winding shaft (the hollow end of the winding shaft) to support said winding shaft, and to connect two consecutive winding shafts when several protection modules are abutted.Advantageously, the groove of the connecting shaft, which cooperates with the lateral locking stops, is external to the two ends of the winding shafts and is preferably eccentric on the connecting shaft (which facilitates assembly marking).

[0028] According to one characteristic, each protection module of the protection device comprises, in a kit, a winding shaft on which the protective cover is wound, a connecting shaft, a bearing and an end upright. When the protection device is installed, one or more protection modules are provided in a kit, as well as an additional end post with a bearing and a connecting shaft, manual or motorized operating means being intended to be connected to this last connecting shaft. Intermediate posts of lesser height than the end posts without bearings or connecting pins and only the arms of which are connected to the elongated elements at the edge of the protective cover.

[0029] The invention also relates to a method of installing the aforementioned protection device of the invention, which comprises the following steps, the protection device comprising only one module: - two end posts are used, each already equipped with a pair of articulated arms, preferably with tensioners; - a bearing is previously fixed at the upper end of each end post; - a connecting shaft is previously fixed in each hollow end of the winding shaft which carries the completely wound protective cover; - the installer plants the end posts in the ground using anchors if necessary; - the installer places the rolled-up protective cover on the posts by placing the connecting pins on each bearing of the end posts and locks the assembly by making the locking means, in particular a flange, cooperate with each bearing above the associated connecting pin; - the installer fixes the elongated elements to the arms; and - before use, operating means such as a crank or a motorized system, are intended to be mounted by connecting it to the end of one of the connecting axes opposite the protective cover.

[0030] The invention also relates to a method of installing the aforementioned protection device of the invention, the protection device comprising several protection modules to be joined and the method comprising the following steps: a) a first protection module is mounted using two end posts which are each already equipped with a pair of articulated arms; b) a bearing is previously fixed at the upper end of each end post; (c) a connecting shaft is previously fixed in each of the two hollow ends of the winding shaft which carries the completely wound protective cover; d) the installer plants the end posts in the ground, possibly via the anchors; (e) the installer places the rolled-up protective cover on the posts by placing the connecting pins on each bearing of the end posts and locks the connecting pins in their bearing by the locking means; f) the installer fixes the elongated elements to the arms, the first protection module then being installed; then g) a second protection module is installed by planting an end post at a distance from the first module or by having previously planted different end posts before arranging each of the other protection modules, said distance corresponding to the length of the roll of this second protection module, the end post at a distance from the first protection module, called the free end post, being equipped with a bearing while the winding shaft of the roll of this second protection module is already equipped at one of its ends with a connecting pin, the entire roll and its connecting pin are arranged on the two end posts, said connecting pin resting on the bearing of the last free end post; h) the installer locks the connecting shaft of the free end post; i) at the junction of the two protection modules, the installer fixes the winding shaft of the second protection module, on the side of its termination without a connecting pin, to the connecting pin projecting from the first protection module; j) the installer fixes the elongated elements to the arms of the second protection module and preferably also connects them to the elongated elements of the first protection module; k) the installer repeats steps g) to j) for one or more other protection modules which would be added; and before use, operating means such as a crank or a motorized system are intended to be mounted by connecting it to the end of one of the connecting axes of a so-called protection end module.

[0031] The present invention is now described using examples which are solely illustrative and in no way limitative of the scope of the invention, and from the attached illustrations, in which: - [Fig.l] represents a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a protection device according to the invention in the installed and folded position when not in use. - [Fig.2] corresponds to the protection device of [Fig.l] in a deployed position to cover plants such as a row of vines, and without an intermediate post. - [Fig.3] corresponds to another deployed position of the protection device of [Fig.2], - [Fig.4] is a front view of an end post and according to its external face, the one facing away from the roll of the waterproof cover. - [Fig.5] illustrates in detail and perspective view the upper end of an end post, before mounting the connecting axis and the means for locking the protective cover when it is lifted; in this example, the winding shaft is parallelepiped in shape. - [Fig.6] illustrates in detail and perspective view the upper end of an end post, after assembly of the connecting axis and the means for locking the protective cover when lifted; in this example, the winding shaft is circular in shape. - [Fig.7] illustrates a detailed and perspective view of the internal face of a support post (end post or intermediate post) and the area of ​​fixing and articulation of the articulated arms relative to the post, via an interface and reinforcement part. - [[Fig.8]] shows a perspective view of a protection device according to the invention with several protection modules joined in line. - [[Fig.9]] illustrates a perspective and detailed view of the junction of two winding shafts of two protection modules before installation of the junction on a bearing and before locking of the lifting locking means, the winding shafts being parallelepiped in shape. - [[Fig. 10]] corresponds to [Fig.9] after locking. - [[Fig. 11]] shows a side view of [Fig. 10] and at an angle of the end post. - [[Fig. 12]] shows a top view of [Fig. 10] and according to a rotation of the end post relative to its vertical.

[0032] Certain elements in the figures are seen through transparency, the protective cover here being a transparent plastic film.

[0033] The protective device 1 of the invention illustrated in the figures is intended to protect plants such as vines in rows in particular from bad weather or high humidity.

[0034] The protective device 1 is intended to be used when the weather is wet or when the weather conditions risk damaging the vines and their production. For this purpose, the protective device 1 is installed at the ends of a row 1' ([Fig.2]) and above the row, and is presented when not in use in a folded position as illustrated in [Fig.l], and when in use, in a deployed position to cover the row 1' as illustrated in Figures 2, 3 and 8.

[0035] The protection device 1 comprises either a protection module 10 which extends over a certain length relative to the row 1' to be protected, for example over a length of 6 m (figures 1 to 3), or several identical protection modules as illustrated here ([Fig.8]) according to four modules 10 to 13 which are joined along their longitudinal axis in order to obtain a greater suitable length.

[0036] The protection device 1, in particular a protection module 10, comprises a supporting structure 2 and a waterproof protective cover 3 capable of being rolled up when not in use in the form of a roll ([Fig.l]) and capable of being unrolled in position of use (figures 2 and 3, or 8) thanks to maneuvering means 4 to form two side-by-side sections 30 and 31 in the manner of a roof with an inverted V-section in order to cover the vine without touching it. The cover 3 is wound around a winding shaft 5 which is supported by the supporting structure 2. The connection of several protection modules will be described later.

[0037] The supporting structure 2 comprises support posts, at least two identical end posts 20, and possibly at least one intermediate post 21 (in particular depending on the length, weight, configuration of the terrain), articulated arms 6 assisting during the actuation of the maneuvering means 4 in the deployment of the cover 3 according to variable opening angles, three examples of opening angles of which are illustrated in Figures 2 to 4, and assisting in the folding of said cover, elongate elements 7 (visible by transparency in [Fig. 2]) which are coupled to the longitudinal edges of the free end of the panels 30 and 31 of the cover 3 and fixed to the articulated arms 6, support means 8 which carry the winding shaft 5 as well as locking means 9 for lifting the roller and means for limiting and locking the lateral movement of the roller.

[0038] The posts 20 and 21 are standard commercial posts, for example metal profiles of the type used for metal vine stakes. They have a height adapted so as to position the rolled-up cover 3 well above the plants so as not to touch them. The end posts 20 have the function of supporting the winding shaft 5 (via the support means 8) and of assisting in the deployment and folding thanks to the articulated arms 6. The intermediate post 21 is optional; its purpose is to prevent the elongated elements from bending if necessary. It is of lesser height than the end posts 20 as visible in [Fig.l].

[0039] The end posts 20 have a lower end 22 and an upper end 23. The intermediate post 21 has a lower end 22 and an upper end 21'. The lower ends 22 of the end posts 20 and of the intermediate post 21 are directly driven into the ground or fixed in the ground via anchors 20' ([Fig.4]). The upper ends 23 of the two end posts 20 respectively support the two ends of the winding shaft 5 via the support means 8, a part of which is fixed to said upper ends 23. The intermediate post 21 only has a function of assisting with deployment and folding via its articulated arms 6; its upper end 21' therefore does not extend in height to the rolled-up part of the cover 3. The intermediate post 21 is of a lower height than the end posts 20 and it does not include means for supporting the winding shaft 5.

[0040] With reference to Figures 5 and 6, the support means 8 comprise a bearing 80 and a connecting axis 81. The bearing 80 does not directly support the winding shaft 5. It is the connecting shaft 81 which cooperates with the winding shaft 5 and which rests directly on the bearing 80. The rotation of the winding shaft 5 is obtained by the rotation of the connecting shaft 81. The two terminations 50 of the winding shaft 5 (only one of which is visible in the detail views) are advantageously hollow to insert a respective connecting shaft 81 therein. The winding shaft 5 is for example a rigid hollow bar, preferably with a parallelepiped section.

[0041] A connecting pin 81 is capable of being inserted into each of the hollow terminations 50 of the winding shaft 5 and of being fixed there by fixing means 8' such as two diametrically opposed screws shown schematically in Figures 5 and 9. The fixing means 8' make it possible to make the connecting pin 81 integral with the winding shaft 5 and to make it perfectly immobile in longitudinal translation, that is to say in the direction perpendicular to the axis passing through the two screws. The section of the connecting pin 81 is smaller than the hollow section of the termination 50 for the introduction of said connecting pin 81. By its securing, the connecting pin 81 is immobile in longitudinal translation, that is to say immobile in translation along its axis.The connecting shaft 81, in the installed position of the protection device and therefore in the position of use of the protection device, cannot therefore be movable in translation along the longitudinal axis of the winding shaft 5. The connecting shaft 81 serves as an interface part so that the supporting structure 2, in particular the bearings 80, can support the winding shaft 5 at each of its ends 50, whether the protection module is single ([Fig.l]) or multiple ([Fig.8]). When the protection device 1 comprises several abutting modules 10, 11, 12, 13, etc., the connecting shaft 81 between two protection modules serves to connect and abut (with a limited space between the two modules which does not exceed 50 mm) two consecutive winding shafts 5.

[0042] Preferably, the termination 50 of the winding shaft 5 is parallelepipedal, and therefore has flat faces, to facilitate screw fixing. The winding shaft 5 comprises a bore 51 for the passage of the screw 8'. The connecting shaft 81 is cylindrical, preferably of circular section. The fixing of the connecting shaft 81 is done radially. The connecting shaft 81 has two opposite ends. The connecting shaft 81 has at least at one end and in the thickness (for radial fixing) two diametrically opposite fixing threads 82 for fixing at least to one winding shaft 5 ([Fig.5]). Preferably, the connecting shaft 81 comprises at each of its two ends a pair of threads 8A and 8B respectively, the two threads 82 of each pair 8A, 8B being diametrically opposed (a single thread for the pair 82B being visible in [Fig. 5]). The first pair 8A of threads is used to be fixed on a winding shaft 5.The second pair 8B of threads is used in particular to fix the operating means 4 and / or is used to fix the axis of. connection 81 to another winding shaft 5 ([Fig.9]) when two protection modules are joined by connecting their respective winding shaft. Advantageously, the two pairs 8A and 8B of threads at the two respective ends of the connecting shaft 81 are arranged perpendicular to each other ([Fig.5] and [Fig.9] as regards the visible fixing of the screws 8' arranged at 90° for the two winding terminations), which allows, when two winding shafts 5 are connected to the respective pairs of threads of the connecting shaft 81, that said winding shafts can each pivot relative to the connecting shaft 81, thanks in addition to the functional clearance provided internally to each of the hollow terminations 50 of the shafts with said connecting shaft (the functional clearance being explained below).

[0043] Advantageously, a functional clearance is provided between the external surface of the connecting shaft 81 and the internal face of the hollow termination 50 of the winding shaft. This functional clearance is also present when two winding shafts 5 of two abutting protection devices are connected to each other by the connecting shaft 81 (Figures 9 and 10). This functional clearance allows the winding shaft 5 to be able to oscillate relative to the connecting shaft 81, in the same plane and around the axis passing through the screws 8'. Thus, in [Fig.9], the left winding shaft 5 can oscillate in a vertical plane from top to bottom or from bottom to top as schematically symbolized by the arrow A, and the right winding shaft 5 can oscillate in a horizontal plane from left to right or from right to left as schematically symbolized by the arrow B.The functional clearance allows the winding shaft 5 to pivot to ensure correct winding of the protective cover by minimizing folds and promoting winding of the sides 30 and 31 parallel to the winding shaft and not at an angle. This functional clearance is especially useful for a long length of the protection device 1 when several protection modules 10, 11, 12, 13, etc., are connected to each other, two winding shafts 5 of two abutting protection devices being connected to each other by a connecting pin 81 (figures 9 and 10) which is fixed by its two opposite ends according to a 90° orientation of the fixings (as explained in the paragraph above).

[0044] The operating means 4 are intended to be connected to the connecting shaft 81 of one of the ends of the protection module when this module is unique or of one of the end modules of the protection device when there are several. The operating means 4 rotate the connecting shaft 81 which drives the winding shaft 5 to rotate it in one direction in order to deploy the protective cover 3 and in the opposite direction to fold it. The operating means 4 can be manual or motorized. In Figures 1 and 3 a crank is illustrated as operating means 4, the crank being connected to the connecting shaft 81 and preferably fixed via the second pair 8B of threads 82. As a variant of the operating means 4, a motor could be coupled to the connecting axis 81.

[0045] Furthermore, the connecting shaft 81 comprises (on its external face) a peripheral (annular) groove 83 which extends over the entirety of its cylindrical periphery. As explained later in more detail, the groove 83 is intended to cooperate with means for blocking the lateral movement of a winding shaft 5.

[0046] The bearing 80 comprises a receiving housing 84 for the connecting shaft 81. Preferably, to facilitate rapid installation, the receiving housing 84 is open on the upper face so as to constitute a cradle for installing the connecting shaft 81 by simply placing it thereon. Preferably, the cradle 84 is V-shaped to limit the contact surface with the connecting shaft 81 which is intended to rotate, and to optimize the centering of said connecting shaft 81. Preferably, the surface of the cradle 84 is covered with a coating with a low coefficient of friction such as a non-stick coating, for example PTFE. Furthermore, the walls 84A and 84B of the cradle 84 (figures 5, 6 and 10) form lateral stops called support stops so as to limit the pivoting of the connecting axis 81. The connecting axis 81 is permanently pressed against the support stops 84A and 84B.

[0047] Advantageously, the bearing 80 incorporates the locking means 9 for lifting the cover (figures 5, 6, 9 and 10). The locking means 9 prevent the lifting of the connecting pin 81 and therefore of the cover 3. The locking means 9 comprise a removable flange which is intended to be put in place and held in a plane arranged above the receiving housing or cradle 84. The flange 9 is preferably positioned transversely to the direction of the connecting pin 81. Once the connecting pin 81 is placed on the cradle 84, the installer only has to position the flange 9, thus preventing any lifting of the connecting pin. In the example illustrated, the bearing 80 comprises two legs 85 projecting from the opening plane of the receiving housing or cradle 84, each leg 85 being provided with an orifice 85' for passage of the flange 9.Preferably, the flange 9 has an L-shape with a first wing 9A serving as a grip and preferably also for locking in the bearing by insertion into a suitable housing 85”, as well as a second wing 9B with a locking and anti-lifting function, which is intended to be introduced through the two orifices 85'.

[0048] As seen in [Fig.6], the bearing 80 is fixed to the upper end 23 of a post 20. The fixing is preferably carried out by bolting. Preferably, the bearing 80 has its lower end surface 80' which rests on the upper edge of the post 20 to better distribute the support forces on the post. The bearing 80 advantageously comprises a lower extension 86 projecting from the lower surface 80' and in a vertical direction in the installed position of the bearing, the lower extension 86 being fixed against one of the faces of the post 20.

[0049] The means for blocking the lateral movement of the roller are means for blocking the lateral movement of the connecting shaft 81. If the connecting shaft 81 is already limited in pivoting by the support stops 84A and 8B of the cradle 84 on which it rests, it can nevertheless pivot slightly. In order for the pivoting angle to be very limited, the bearing 80 comprises complementary limiting means or locking means which comprise two opposite lateral stops called locking stops 87A and 87B which are intended to cooperate with the groove 83 of the connecting shaft 81 in the event of pivoting of the winding bar 5 and therefore of the connecting shaft 81. Preferably, these lateral locking stops 87A and 87B constitute the internal edges of the two opposite walls of a groove 87 with which the bearing is provided, the groove 87 being in a plane offset relative to the receiving housing 84 and allowing the crossing of the connecting shaft 81 which rests in said receiving housing.If the roller, and therefore its winding shaft, pivots laterally between its two ends, to the left or to the right, the connecting axis 81 which is already limited by the support stops 84A and 84B of the cradle 84 is completely stopped in pivoting due to the fact that its groove 83 comes into abutment against one or other of the lateral stops 87A or 87B.

[0050] To limit manufacturing costs, the bearing 80 is here in two parts 80A and 80B fixed to each other ([Fig.5]). The first part 80A, called the support part, for example made of plastic, has the function of bearing by comprising the receiving housing 84 which supports the connecting shaft 81 and the function of limiting the lateral movement of the connecting axis 81. The second part 80B is a metal plate and has the function of fixing the first part 80A to the end post 20, the function of receiving the locking means 9 for lifting the roller and the function of the locking means for lateral movement of the roller. The plate 80B is fixed by screwing against a main face of the support part 80A.The plate 80B comprises the lower extension 86 which allows the bearing 80 to be fixed to the end post, the upper extension provided with the tabs 85 with the orifices 85' capable of cooperating with the flange 9, and the groove 87 whose edges of the two opposite walls constitute the two lateral stops 87A and 87B for blocking the lateral movement of the connecting axis 81 via the groove 83.

[0051] The groove 83 of the connecting shaft 81 also makes it possible to block the longitudinal translation of a winding shaft 5. In particular, the groove 83 of the connecting shaft 81 makes it possible to block the longitudinal translation of a winding shaft 5 relative to the post 20 associated with the bearing 80 carrying the connecting shaft 81 or relative to the post 20 at the junction of two winding shafts connected by the connecting shaft 81.

[0052] The groove 83 is preferably wider than the thickness of the lateral locking stops 87A, 87B, in this case wider than the thickness of the plate 80B, so as to provide angular play for the bearing 80, as illustrated in FIGS. 12. [Fig. 1 1] shows a tilting of the end post 20 which leans relative to the vertical. In order to compensate for this pivoting of the post 20, the bearing 80 which is integral with the post can also tilt relative to a vertical plane, because the plate 80B provided with the groove 87 can tilt angularly relative to a vertical plane because the groove 83 is wider than the thickness of the plate. [Fig. 12] illustrates a rotation of the post 20 around its vertical axis (while remaining perfectly vertical), its two main faces then no longer being strictly perpendicular to the two winding shafts 5. In order to compensate for this rotation, the bearing 80 being integral with the post, the latter can also pivot around a vertical axis because the groove 83 is wider than the thickness of the plate.This makes it possible to absorb the irregularities of the ground when installing the protection device and to adapt in particular to the different characteristics of vineyard plots (slopes, bumps, holes, slopes, etc.).

[0053] Concerning the arms 6 and the elongate elements 7, these are advantageously rigid. The elongate element 7 is fixed at its two distal ends 70 to the end of an arm 6 of the two respective end posts 20, opposite the articulation point 60 of the arm ([Fig.2]). Each elongate element 7 is preferably a rigid tube fixed for example by bolting to the arms 6. When several protection modules are joined, two elongate elements 7 of two consecutive protection modules are preferably connected to each other.

[0054] The combination of the winding shaft 5 which is rigid and, for each cover panel 30, 31, of the two opposite rigid arms 6 on the same side of the pairs of arms as well as the elongated rigid element 7 on one side of the cover, provides a framework for each cover panel in the form of a rigid parallelogram. This allows in particular a constant maintenance of the panels in the form of a rigid parallelogram during the opening and closing of the arms with a tension on the cover sheet which is uniform, the whole of each panel being deformable thanks to the different functional clearances provided in the device (internal clearance in the winding bar with each connecting axis and clearance between the connecting axis and each bearing).

[0055] Furthermore, the articulation of the arms 6 is not made directly on the end posts but on an interface piece 25 ([Fig.7]) fixed to the end posts 20 and to the intermediate post 21. The interface piece 25 has, with its fixing against the post in two spaced zones 25A (called the upper zone) and 25B (called the lower zone), a generally triangular shape with a first part 26A extending from a fixing zone (the upper zone 25A) in a plane perpendicular to the post and on which the articulation points 60 of each arm 6 of a pair are secured, a second part 26B angularly connecting the first part to the post to the other zone fixing (lower zone 25B) and constituting a strut, and the third part formed by the post between the two fixing zones 25A and 25B. This configuration stiffens the anchor point of the arms. Alternatively, two interface pieces with struts could be provided, one interface piece for each arm of a pair.

[0056] Finally, the protection device comprises tensioners 61, one tensioner per end post 20 and intermediate post 21 and pair 6A, 6B of arms 6. The tensioners 61 form elastic return means which facilitate the deployment of the cover 3 (and to have a constant tension on the cover). Each tensioner 61 is fixed to the proximal part of the post, in particular to the interface and reinforcement piece 25 and externally and to each of the arms 6 of a pair of arms.

[0057] The method of installing the protection device 1 is now explained.

[0058] For a protection device 1 comprising only one protection module: - two end posts 20 are used, each of which is already equipped with a pair of articulated arms 6; - a (single) bearing 80 is previously fixed at the upper end of each end post 20; - a connecting shaft 81 is previously fixed in each of the two hollow ends 50 of the winding shaft 5 which carries the completely wound protective cover 3; - the installer plants the end posts 20 in the ground possibly via the anchors 20'; - the installer places the rolled-up protective cover 3 on the posts by placing the connecting pins 81 on each bearing 80 of the end posts 20 and only has to lock the assembly by making the locking means 9, a flange, cooperate with the bearing 80 (the orifices 85' of the legs 85 of the bearing 80); - the installer fixes the elongated elements 7 to the arms 6; and - the installer mounts the operating means 4 such as a crank or a motorized system by connecting it to the end of one of the connecting axes 81 opposite the protective cover.

[0059] For a protection device 1 comprising several protection modules: a) a first protection module 10 is mounted using two end posts 20 which are each already equipped with a pair of articulated arms 6; b) a (single) bearing 80 is previously fixed at the upper end of each end post 20; c) a connecting shaft 81 is previously fixed in each of the two hollow ends 50 of the winding shaft 5 which carries the completely wound protective cover 3; d) the installer plants the end posts 20 in the ground possibly via the 20' anchors; e) the installer places the rolled-up protective cover 3 on the posts by placing the connecting pins 81 on each bearing 80 of the end posts 20 and locks the connecting pins in their bearing by the locking means 9 (insertion of the flange 9 through the holes 85' of the legs 85 of the bearing 80); f) the installer fixes the elongated elements 7 to the arms 6; then g) a second protection module 11 is installed by planting an end post 20 at a distance from the first module 10 or by having previously planted different end posts before arranging each of the protection modules, the distance corresponding to the length of the roll of this second protection module, the end post 20 at a distance from the first protection module, called the free end post, being equipped with a bearing 80 while the winding shaft 5 of the roll of this second protection module is already equipped at one of its ends 50 with a connecting pin 81, the entire roll and its connecting pin is arranged on the two end posts, said connecting pin resting on the bearing of the last free end post; h) the installer locks the connecting shaft 81 of the free end post; i) at the junction of the two protection modules 10 and 11, the installer fixes (by screwing) the winding shaft 5 of the second protection module, on the side of its termination 50 without a connecting pin, to the connecting pin 81 projecting from the first protection module; j) the installer fixes the elongated elements 7 to the arms 6 of the second protection module and preferably also connects them to the elongated elements of the first protection module; k) the installer repeats steps g) to j) for one or more other protection modules that would be added.; 1) at the end of assembly, the installer mounts the operating means 4 on the first protection module or on the last protection module.

[0060] Finally, the protection device may comprise different sensors connected remotely with a warning system for the user and / or with an automated control system for the maneuvering means 4 when they are motorized.

Claims

Claims

1. Plant protection device (1) comprising at least one protection module (10) which comprises a supporting structure (2), a protective cover (3), a winding shaft (5) having two opposite hollow ends (50) and around which the cover is wound to take the form of a roll, the cover being able to be deployed using the supporting structure (2) along two lateral sides (30, 31) on either side of the winding shaft (5) and parallel to it, - the supporting structure (2) comprising at least two spaced posts (20) called end posts and two pairs (6A, 6B) of arms (6) which are articulated relative to the two posts (20) and which are able to pivot between a folded position parallel to the posts, for which the cover is wound, and a deployed position for which the cover is unrolled, as well as means of roller support (8),which are fixed to the end posts (20) and which comprise at each end post (20), a bearing (80) and a connecting shaft (81) capable of being engaged inside the hollow termination (50) of the winding shaft (5), - the device further comprising means (9) for blocking the lifting of the roller and means (84A, 84B; 87A, 87B) for limiting lateral movement of the roller, characterized in that the connecting shaft (81) is capable of being fixed integrally inside the hollow termination (50) of the winding shaft and in that the connecting shaft (81) rests directly on the bearing (80).,

2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the bearing (80) comprises a receiving housing (84) for supporting the connecting shaft (81), in particular the receiving housing (84) being in the form of a cradle which has two opposite walls (84A, 84B) forming two lateral support stops for the connecting shaft (81) and providing means for limiting the lateral movement of the roller, preferably the receiving housing (84) having a V-shaped profile and possibly having a coating with a low coefficient of friction such as PTFE.

3. Device according to claim 2, characterized in that the means for limiting the lateral movement of the roller further comprise two complementary lateral stops called locking stops (87A, 87B), between which the connecting shaft (81) passes with a spacing clearance, the connecting shaft (81) being intended to temporarily cooperate with the locking stops to be locked in pivoting, preferably the two locking stops (87A, 87B) constitute the internal edge of the two opposite walls of a groove (87) with which the bearing (8) is provided, the groove (87) being in a plane offset relative to the receiving housing (84) and allowing the crossing with a spacing clearance, of the connecting shaft resting in said receiving housing.

4. Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the connecting shaft (81) comprises a peripheral groove (83) which is in the same plane as that of the two locking stops (87A, 87B), preferably the width of the groove (83) being greater than the thickness of each of the lateral stops (87A, 87B) so as to be able to provide angular play between the bearing (80) and the connecting shaft (81).

5. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lifting locking means (9) cooperate directly with the bearing (80) of each end post (20) so as to be able to directly lock the connecting axis (81), preferably the lifting locking means (9) comprising an attached locking flange which is able to cooperate with a part (85) of the bearing (80), located above the connecting axis (81) resting on said bearing.

6. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bearing (80) comprises two parts (80A, 80B) fixed to each other, the first part (80A) having the function of bearing by comprising a receiving housing (84) on which the connecting shaft (81) rests and the function of means for limiting lateral movement of the roller by comprising lateral support stops (84A, 84B), and the second part (80B), preferably such as a plate, which is fixed against a main face of the first part (80A), having the function of fixing the bearing (80) to the end post, the function of receiving the locking means (9) for lifting the roller and a complementary function of limiting lateral movement of the roller.

7. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a functional clearance is provided inside each hollow termination (50) of the winding shaft relative to the axis of connection (81), in particular all around the connection axis.

8. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least the hollow ends (50) of the winding shaft (5) are parallelepipedal.

9. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting axis (81) has two distal ends which are each provided with a pair (82A, 82B) of diametrically opposed fixing threads (82), the pairs of threads being arranged at 90° to each other.

10. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each cover panel (30, 31) comprises as a framework the winding shaft (5), an elongate element (7) parallel to the winding shaft and coupled to a free longitudinal end edge of the cover as well as two parallel and opposite arms (6) fixed to the two respective end posts and to each end of the elongate element (7), the arms (6) and the elongate element being rigid.

11. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the two articulated arms (6) of a pair (6A, 6B) are fixed in a proximal part of a post (20, 21) at two articulation points (60), preferably via at least one interface and reinforcement part (25) fixed on the post, the interface and reinforcement part (25) comprising a first part (26A) projecting from the post and on which the two articulation points (60) are arranged and a second part (26B) projecting from the post, integral with the first part and fixed to the post as a strut.

12. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises per post (20, 21) one or more tensioners (61) which are fixed to a proximal part of the post and externally to each of the arms (6) of a pair (6A, 6B) associated with the post.

13. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least two abutting protection modules (10, 11, 12, 13), each protection module having its winding shaft (5), and at each of the ends (50) of said winding shaft, a connecting shaft (81) coupled to a bearing (80) itself fixed to an end post (20), a connecting shaft (81) connecting the two winding shafts (5) of the two protection modules by being fixed in their respective hollow end (50) and resting on the bearing (80) which is located at the junction of the two winding shafts.

14. Method of installing the protection device according to any one of the preceding claims, the protection device comprising only one module and the method comprising the following steps: - two end posts (20) are used which are each already equipped with a pair of articulated arms (6) preferably with tensioners; - a bearing (80) is previously fixed at the upper end of each end post (20); - a connecting shaft (81) is previously fixed in each hollow end (50) of the winding shaft (5) which carries the completely wound protective cover (3); - the installer plants the end posts (20) in the ground via anchors (22) if necessary; - the installer places the rolled-up protective cover (3) on the posts by placing the connecting pins (81) on each bearing (80) of the end posts (20) and locks the assembly by making the locking means (9), in particular a flange, cooperate with each bearing (80) above the associated connecting pin (81); - the installer fixes the elongated elements (7) to the arms (6); and - before use, operating means (4) such as a crank or a motorized system, are intended to be mounted by connecting it to the end of one of the connecting axes opposite the protective cover.

15. A method of installing a protection device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, the protection device comprising several protection modules to be joined and the method comprising the following steps: a) a first protection module (10) is mounted using two end posts (20) which are each already equipped with a pair of articulated arms (6); b) a bearing (80) is previously fixed at the upper end of each end post (20); c) a connecting shaft (81) is previously fixed in each of the two hollow ends (50) of the winding shaft (5) which carries the completely wound protective cover (3); d) the installer plants the end posts (20) in the ground possibly via the anchors (20'); e) the installer places the rolled-up protective cover (3) on the posts by placing the connecting pins (81) on each bearing (80) of the end posts (20) and locks the connecting pins in their bearing by the locking means (9); f) the installer fixes the elongated elements (7) to the arms (6), the first protection module then being installed; then g) a second protection module (11) is installed by planting an end post (20) at a distance from the first module (10) or by having previously planted different end posts before arranging each of the other protection modules, said distance corresponding to the length of the roll of this second protection module, the end post (20) at a distance from the first protection module, called the free end post, being equipped with a bearing (80) while the winding shaft (5) of the roll of this second protection module is already equipped at one of its ends (50) with a connecting pin (81), the entire roll and its connecting pin is arranged on the two end posts, said connecting pin resting on the bearing of the last free end post; h) the installer locks the connecting shaft (81) of the free end post; i) at the junction of the two protection modules (10; 11), the installer fixes the winding shaft (5) of the second protection module, on the side of its termination (50) without a connecting pin, to the connecting pin (81) projecting from the first protection module; j) the installer fixes the elongated elements (7) to the arms (6) of the second protection module and preferably also connects them to the elongated elements of the first protection module; k) the installer repeats steps g) to j) for one or more other protection modules which would be added; and before use, operating means such as a crank or a motorized system are intended to be mounted by connecting it to the end of one of the connecting axes of a so-called protection end module.

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