Power supply unit for blackout device and blackout device comprising such a unit

The power supply assembly for blackout devices enables easy, tool-free battery access and maintenance, addressing the cumbersome dismantling issues of existing systems by using a sliding and clipping mechanism, enhancing user safety and reducing costs.

FR3163096A1Pending Publication Date: 2025-12-12PROFALUX IND
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Patent Information

Application Number
FR2024005981
Authority / Receiving Office
FR · FR
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-06-06
Publication Date
2025-12-12

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing blackout devices with photovoltaic power supply units require cumbersome dismantling of the front panel for battery maintenance, leading to musculoskeletal disorders and lengthy replacement times, and are not easily removable or cost-effective.

Method used

A power supply assembly with support pieces that allow easy access to the battery without dismantling the casing, featuring a sliding and clipping mechanism for tool-free installation and removal, using lightweight, elastically deformable thermoplastic materials to minimize protrusion and maintain a sleek aesthetic.

Benefits of technology

Facilitates quick and tool-free battery maintenance, reducing the risk of musculoskeletal disorders and lowering production costs while preserving the device's aesthetic appeal and operational reliability.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

Power supply assembly for shading device and shading device comprising such an assembly Power supply assembly (100) of a shading device (1) comprising a battery (4) intended to be connected to a photovoltaic panel (3), a casing (2) defining an internal volume (V) and comprising a front wall (6) having an opening (10) incorporating longitudinal edges (11, 12), connected to each other by a first lateral edge (13) and a second lateral edge (14), the power supply assembly comprising support pieces (8, 9), both intended to be attached to the front wall (6), by being respectively inserted and then positioned by sliding against the first lateral edge and the second lateral edge, the support pieces each including a housing (15, 16) suitable for retaining the battery, when the support pieces are attached to the front wall, the housings (15, 16) both extend within the internal volume (V).Figure for the abridged version: [Fig. 3].
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Description

Title of the invention: Power supply assembly for a blackout device and blackout device comprising such an assembly

[0001] The invention relates to the technical field of motorized rolling blackout devices for a bay window, and in particular blackout devices comprising a battery, for example powered by means of a photovoltaic panel.

[0002] The term "blackout element" refers to any rolling device capable of extending in front of an opening so as to provide protection against light. Thus, such a blackout element includes, for example, a shutter, a blind, a flexible curtain, or an adjustable sunshade.

[0003] Throughout the remainder of this text, the terms "blackout device", "motorized blackout device", or "motorized rolling blackout device" all refer indiscriminately to a motorized rolling blackout device comprising a battery powered by means of a photovoltaic panel.

[0004] More specifically, the invention relates to a power supply assembly, also referred to throughout the rest of the text as "assembly".

[0005] It is known to use shading devices with a self-powered system supplied by a photovoltaic cell. Such a solution allows the shading element to be operated without requiring a connection to the conventional electrical grid. Furthermore, the absence of required wiring simplifies the installation and integration of the shading device onto the support. This feature allows for easy installation, regardless of the location chosen by the user, without being constrained by the existing electrical grid.

[0006] In addition, such a technique uses solar energy, which is renewable, allowing the user to limit their electricity consumption.

[0007] Furthermore, coupling the photovoltaic cell with a battery allows the energy produced to be stored, thus providing increased autonomy to the shading device. Such storage capacity allows the shading device to operate even in the absence of direct sunlight, offering continuous reliability regardless of weather conditions or the time of day.

[0008] Generally, blackout devices comprise a mechanical part, including a housing and the blackout element. Typically, the blackout element winds and unwinds on a longitudinal axis, pivoting relative to the housing, and an actuating part enabling the blackout element to be set in motion.

[0009] In a known manner, the actuating part includes a geared motor, a battery connected to the geared motor, and to a photovoltaic panel.

[0010] Typically, the actuating part, in particular the photovoltaic cell, is mounted on a front panel, on the front of the housing. In this way, the photovoltaic cell is positioned to receive as much solar radiation as possible. Document FR 2842860 A1 illustrates such a configuration.

[0011] Thanks to this mounting, access to the battery is easy, allowing for quick replacement. However, the protruding actuator makes the shutter unsightly. A mounting is desired that provides the flattest possible front face and makes the actuator as inconspicuous as possible.

[0012] Document FR 3113088A1 describes a roller shutter structure with a housing inside which a winding shaft with the blackout element is installed. A self-contained power supply unit comprising a photovoltaic panel and a battery is positioned on the front wall, the front wall having an opening for installing the unit by passing through said opening. More specifically, a mounting plate is provided for attaching the power supply unit to the opening by clipping it into place. The power supply unit has a slide on one side for receiving the photovoltaic panel, and C-shaped clips on the other side for attaching the battery.

[0013] Thus, the shutter structure is assembled by engaging the battery on the mounting plate and inserting the photovoltaic panel onto the slide, thereby assembling the power supply unit. The power supply unit is then positioned by its upper edge within a shoulder until a lower edge is clipped onto the opening using a flexible locking tab. This ensures a neat aesthetic appearance for the blackout device and minimizes its size.

[0014] However, the maintenance of such a blackout device could be improved. Accessing the battery requires complete dismantling of the front panel to remove the power supply unit, and then to remove the battery itself. Dismantling the front panel is cumbersome, as it requires lifting the panel containing the self-contained power supply unit, a heavy and bulky assembly. Furthermore, battery maintenance can cause musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in professionals who frequently perform these operations. In addition, the time required for a simple battery replacement is lengthy and not feasible for all end users.

[0015] The invention aims to address the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0016] A first objective is to propose a power supply assembly that facilitates access to the battery of the blackout device, avoiding the dismantling of the casing and the front panel.

[0017] A second objective is to propose such a power supply assembly that is easily removable from the housing of the blackout device, reducing the use of tools.

[0018] A third objective is to propose such a power supply unit that can be mass-produced, and while limiting costs.

[0019] A fourth object is to propose an occulting device equipped with a power supply assembly as presented above.

[0020] In this respect, it is provided firstly, a power supply assembly for a motorized rolling blackout blind for a bay window, the power supply assembly comprising a battery intended to be connected to a photovoltaic panel, a casing defining an internal volume, the casing comprising a front wall with an opening intended to be covered by a photovoltaic panel, the opening incorporating longitudinal edges, connected to each other by a first lateral edge and a second lateral edge, the power supply assembly comprising a first support piece and a second support piece, both intended to be attached to the front wall, by being respectively inserted and then positioned by sliding against the first lateral edge and the second lateral edge, the support pieces each including a housing suitable for holding the battery, when the support pieces are attached to the front wall,Both dwellings extend within the internal volume.

[0021] The following additional features may be provided alone or in combination:

[0022] - a support piece has a first side comprising a first tab, and on a second side comprising a second tab and a third tab, the first tab incorporating a first longitudinal contact plane, the second tab incorporating a second longitudinal contact plane, the third tab incorporating a third contact plane coplanar with the first contact plane, the second contact plane and the third contact plane being transversely offset from each other, when the support piece is attached to the front wall, the front wall being interposed between the second contact plane and the third contact plane;

[0023] - the first tab comprises a first bonding surface and the third the tongue includes a second connecting surface, the connecting surfaces being coplanar and extending along a longitudinal plane, the connecting surfaces forming a longitudinal support plane allowing the photovoltaic panel to be received;

[0024] - the battery includes a cylindrical insertion surface, the first part comprising a first housing, the second room comprising a second housing, the housings each comprising a wing defining a portion of a cylinder, when the first room and the second room are attached to the front wall, the wings are aligned along a longitudinal direction;

[0025] - a wing comprises a first bank, and a second bank, the wing being sufficiently deformable to ensure a variation in spacing between the first bank and the second bank, in reaction to a thrust exerted during the introduction of the battery into the introduction surface, allowing the battery to be clipped onto the support piece;

[0026] - a support piece includes a stop zone, the stop zone encompassing a guide surface included in a longitudinal plane, a first positioning surface, a second positioning surface, the positioning surfaces both extending along a longitudinal plane, the first positioning surface being offset transversely with respect to the second positioning surface, the transverse offset being of a dimension close to the thickness of the front wall, a lateral edge including a bearing face, and a notch configured to receive the second positioning surface;

[0027] - a housing is equipped with a stop wall so as to constitute a stop in translation for the battery;

[0028] - The power supply assembly includes a connector for connecting the battery to a geared motor and a photovoltaic panel, the stop wall comprising at least one slot intended to receive a connector, the latter forming a means of clamping for the connector;

[0029] - when the support pieces are fixed to the front wall, the housings are with regard to the opening;

[0030] - when the support pieces are fixed to the front wall, the housings exhibit a vertical offset relative to the opening;

[0031] - the photovoltaic panel includes a positioning hole, the front wall incorporates a positioning perforation, and a support piece includes a positioning hole, when the support piece is attached to the front wall and the photovoltaic panel is fixed to the front wall, the same mechanical fastening means passes successively through the positioning hole, the positioning perforation, and the positioning hole.

[0032] Secondly, a motorized rolling blackout device for bay is provided, the blackout device comprising a blackout element, a geared motor, a control system, and a power supply assembly as shown above.

[0033] Other features and advantages of the invention will become more apparent and concrete upon reading the following description of embodiments, given by way of non-limiting example, and made with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0034] [Fig.1] Fig.1 is a schematic perspective view of an example of an occulting device;

[0035] [Fig.2] Fig.2 is a schematic perspective view partially illustrating a power supply assembly according to a first embodiment, the power supply assembly being in an operational arrangement;

[0036] [Fig.3] Fig.3 is a schematic perspective view partially illustrating a power supply unit according to a first embodiment, the power supply unit being in a maintenance arrangement, this unit being represented without a photovoltaic panel;

[0037] [Fig.4] Fig.4 is a schematic perspective view partially illustrating a power supply unit according to a first embodiment, the power supply unit being in a mounting arrangement, the power supply unit being represented without a photovoltaic panel;

[0038] [Fig. 5] Fig. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the fastening device according to the VV section plan of [Fig.2], equipped with a photovoltaic panel;

[0039] [Fig.6] Fig.6 is a schematic perspective view of a first part of support for a power supply assembly according to the first embodiment;

[0040] [Fig.7] Fig.7 is a schematic perspective view of a second part of support for a power supply assembly according to the first embodiment;

[0041] [Fig.8] The [Fig.8] is a schematic perspective view of a first support piece of a power supply assembly according to the first embodiment equipped with a battery;

[0042] [Fig.9] Fig.9 is a schematic perspective view of a second part of support for a power supply unit according to the first embodiment equipped with a battery;

[0043] [Fig. 10] The [Fig. 10] is a schematic perspective view partially illustrating an occulting device integrating a power supply unit according to a second embodiment, the power supply unit being in an operating arrangement, the power supply unit being represented without a photovoltaic panel;

[0044] [Fig. 11] The [Fig. 11] is a schematic perspective view partially illustrating a power supply assembly according to a second embodiment, the power supply assembly being in maintenance arrangement, the power supply assembly being represented without a photovoltaic panel;

[0045] [Fig. 12] The [Fig. 12] is a schematic perspective view of an occulting device comprising a power supply assembly according to a second embodiment, the power supply assembly being shown in mounting arrangement, the power supply assembly being shown without photovoltaic panel;

[0046] [Fig. 13] The [Fig. 13] is a schematic cross-sectional view along plane XIII-XIII of the [Fig. 10] of a power supply assembly according to a second embodiment, the power supply assembly being shown without a photovoltaic panel;

[0047] [Fig. 14] The [Fig. 14] is a schematic perspective view of a first support piece of a power supply assembly according to the second embodiment;

[0048] [Fig. 15] The [Fig. 15] is a schematic perspective view of a second support piece of a power supply assembly according to the second embodiment;

[0049] Referring to [Fig.1], the blackout device 1 being shown mounted, this allows normal use by the end user.

[0050] Typically, the shading device 1 is intended for use with a bay (not shown in the figures), that is to say, an opening made in a facade or roof. In general, such an opening is fitted with a translucent or transparent plate, made of glass or thermoplastic.

[0051] In the figures, the blackout device 1 is a roller shutter (not visible in the figures). A shutter is generally composed of horizontal metal or plastic slats hinged together so that they can roll up around an axis (not visible in the figures) which is rotated by the geared motor (not shown).

[0052] In other embodiments not shown, the blackout element is a flexible fabric designed to attenuate the light irradiating a window. The fabric is generally made of textiles, but can also be made of a fine polymer mesh, so as to form a mosquito net. The fabric is designed to roll up around an axis driven in rotation by the geared motor.

[0053] In other embodiments not shown, the blackout element comprises a plurality of horizontal blades connected to each other by a transmission system, generally wires or chains, so that they can be pivoted and thus synchronously adjust the angle of the blades, in order to control the amount of light entering the bay.

[0054] As can be seen in [Fig.1], the shading device 1 comprises a box 2 on which a photovoltaic panel 3 is fixed. Such a photovoltaic panel 3 makes it possible to convert the light energy received into electrical energy, which is transmitted to the geared motor via a battery 4.

[0055] Advantageously, the photovoltaic panel 3 is directly fixed to the box 2, but in other embodiments not shown, one or more other flat interface pieces are interposed between the photovoltaic panel 3 and the box 2.

[0056] In the described embodiments, the geared motor, the photovoltaic panel 3, and the battery 4 are connected by a connector (not visible in the figures), comprising cables, or cable bundles, or cable harnesses.

[0057] Without this being shown in the figures, the geared motor, the photovoltaic panel 3, and the battery 4 are controlled by a control system, allowing in particular the management of the interface between the actions of the user, the management of the charge of the battery, and the control of the geared motor.

[0058] As shown in the figures, the box 2 advantageously comprises two side walls 5, a front wall 6 and a top wall 7, forming a casing, defining an internal volume V. Such an internal volume V makes it possible in particular to house the shading element, the battery 4, and the geared motor.

[0059] In the first embodiment shown, the upper wall is in two parts, joined in an intersection zone I, by means of one or more dedicated parts, which are not the subject of this text.

[0060] In the second embodiment shown, the upper wall 7 defines an L-shape and is monobloc.

[0061] Throughout the remainder of this text, an orthogonal XYZ frame of reference is defined with respect to the box 2, comprising three axes perpendicular in pairs, namely:

[0062] - an X axis, coinciding with the general direction of extension of the box 2, defining a longitudinal direction;

[0063] - a Y-axis, defining a horizontal, transverse direction, which with the X-axis defines a horizontal XY plane;

[0064] - a Z-axis, defining a vertical direction, perpendicular to the horizontal XY plane, the YZ axes defining a transverse plane, the XZ axes defining a vertical plane.

[0065] The front wall 6 and the upper wall 7 are advantageously assembled one inside the other on a longitudinal junction zone J, as seen in figures 5 and 13.

[0066] When assembled, the front wall 6 and the upper wall 7 define a passage gap E, opposite the junction line J, allowing the passage of the obscuring element.

[0067] The photovoltaic panel 3 takes, for example, the form of a plate equipped with a on one side of photovoltaic cells (not shown in the figures), and on the other side of a fixing face (not visible in the figures).

[0068] As can be seen in the figures, the front wall 6 incorporates an opening 10, extending substantially longitudinally. The opening 10 advantageously incorporates a first longitudinal edge 11 and a second longitudinal edge 12, which are connected to each other by a first lateral edge 13 and a second lateral edge 14.

[0069] The photovoltaic panel 3 is fixed to the front wall 6, advantageously aligned with the opening 10, occupying a minimum of space and minimizing its protrusion. This feature allows for a more aesthetically pleasing appearance of the shading device 1.

[0070] The housing 2 is generally fixed on the upper part or just above the bay, by means of a rear wall (not visible in the figures), the raising or lowering of the occluding element allowing the shuttering of the bay to be adjusted.

[0071] As can be seen in [Fig. 1], apart from the photovoltaic panel 3 itself, the components forming the shading device 1 are all arranged in the box 2. In this way, the aesthetic appearance of the blackout device 1 is preserved, and its size is limited.

[0072] Figures 2 to 5 and 10 to 13 show a power supply assembly 100 of the occulting device 1.

[0073] In figures 2 and 10, the power supply assembly 100 is shown assembled, that is to say, the power supply assembly 100 is in a working arrangement, corresponding to the arrangement it has when the blackout device 1 is in use.

[0074] The power supply assembly 100 is shown disassembled, i.e., in a maintenance arrangement. In such an arrangement, the battery 4 is accessible. In this way, the battery 4 can be checked and, if necessary, replaced.

[0075] As can be seen, the assembly 100 includes a battery 4, a photovoltaic panel 3, the casing 2, a first support piece 8, and a second support piece 9.

[0076] The support pieces 8, 9 are advantageously made of a material which offers sufficient rigidity to support the weight of a battery 4 and a photovoltaic panel, while being elastically deformable by a manual action of the user.

[0077] In order to allow for lightweight support parts 8, 9, the use of a thermoplastic material is planned, which can be manufactured at low cost, for example by injection molding. In addition, such a material is lightweight.

[0078] In the embodiments shown, when facing the front wall 6, the first support piece 8 is arranged on the left part of the opening 10, and the second support piece 9 is arranged on the right part of the opening 10.

[0079] In other embodiments, when positioned facing the opening, outside the casing, the first support piece 8 is arranged on the left side of the opening 10, and the second support piece 9 is arranged on the right side of the opening 10. Thanks to the opening 10, the user has easy access to the internal volume V, and consequently to the support pieces 8, 9 and to the battery 4.

[0080] More specifically, the support parts 8 9 can be in several possible configurations.

[0081] In a disassembled configuration, represented for example [Fig.3] or [Fig.11], the support pieces 8, 9 are not in contact with the front wall 6. Such a configuration is encountered when the assembly 100 is in a maintenance arrangement.

[0082] In a mounting arrangement, represented for example in figures 4 and 12, the power supply assembly 100, the support parts 8, 9 are positioned in a sliding connection within the opening 10, allowing the user to slide them along the opening 10.

[0083] In a bonding configuration, represented for example in figures 2 and 10, the support pieces 8, 9 are respectively bonded against the first longitudinal edge 11 and the second longitudinal edge 12. In such a configuration, the support pieces 8, 9 are bonded to the front wall 6, and immobilized with respect to the box 2.

[0084] In the embodiments shown, the support pieces 8, 9 each comprise a first side 17 and a second side 18, opposite each other, in respective contact with the first longitudinal edge 11 and the second longitudinal edge 12.

[0085] Advantageously, a first side 17 includes a first tongue 19, the second side 18 includes a second tongue 20, as well as a third tongue 21.

[0086] Advantageously, the first tab 19 comprises a first longitudinal contact plane 22, the second tab 20 includes a second longitudinal contact plane 23, and the third tab 21 includes a third longitudinal contact plane 24. The first contact plane 22 and the third contact plane 24 are visible in Figures 5 and 13, while the second contact plane is particularly visible in Figures 6 to 9, 14, and 15.

[0087] As can be seen in Figures 6 to 8, 14 and 15, the first contact plane 22 and the third contact plane 23 are coplanar, the first contact plane 22 being offset transversely with respect to the second contact plane 23. In this way, a transverse space is formed between the first contact plane 22 and the second contact plane 23, said transverse space being at least as large as the thickness of the front wall 6.

[0088] As can be seen, the front wall 6 is placed between, on the one hand, the first contact plane 22 and the third contact plane 24, and on the other hand, the second contact plane 23. In such a configuration, the second tongue 20 extends within the internal volume V, while the first tongue 19 and the third tongue 23 extend outside the box 2.

[0089] Such an arrangement allows the insertion of a support piece 8, 9 by clipping it onto the opening 6, and thus onto the front wall 6, as detailed later in this text. A sliding connection is thus created between a support piece 8, 9 and the front wall 6. The supports 8, 9 can be positioned on the front wall 6 without the use of tools.

[0090] Furthermore, thanks to the transverse offset between, on the one hand, the first tab 19 and the third tab 21, and on the other hand, the second tab 20, it is possible, after clipping or snapping a support piece 8, 9 onto the opening, to slide said support piece 8, 9 along the opening 10. In this way, it is possible, by simple sliding, to vary the distance between the first piece of support 8 and the second support piece 9. Such an arrangement is advantageous, as it facilitates the spacing between the first housing 15 and the second housing 16, which facilitates the removal of the battery 4.

[0091] As can be seen in the figures, the first tab 19 has a first longitudinal connecting surface 25, and the third tab 21 includes a second connecting surface 26, coplanar with the first connecting surface 25. In this way, the connecting surfaces 25, 26 form a support surface to receive the photovoltaic panel 3. The protrusion of the support pieces 8, 9 with respect to the front wall 6 outside the box 2 is limited to the tabs 19, 20, and 21; which allows for a neat aesthetic of the shading device 1.

[0092] Advantageously, the support pieces 8, 9 each incorporate a housing 15, 16 for retaining the battery 4. When the support pieces 8, 9 are attached to the housing 2, the housings 15, 16 extend within the internal volume V. In this way, it is possible to minimize the elements extending outside the internal volume V of the housing 2. Such an arrangement thus improves the aesthetic appearance of the blackout device 11, and limits its size.

[0093] In the embodiments shown, the support pieces 8, 9 include a base 27, provided between the first side 17 and the second side 18. When the support pieces 18, 19 are attached to the front wall 6, the base 27 is disposed in the space located opposite the opening 10, between the first side 17 and the second side 18.

[0094] Advantageously, the base 27 provides the connection between the housing 15, 16 and the tabs 19, 20, 21. The base 27 ensures the rigidity of the support pieces 8, 9. In addition, such a base 27 allows the support pieces 8, 9 to be gripped during the mounting of the support pieces 8, 9 on the front wall 6, in particular when the battery 4 is arranged within the housings 15, 16.

[0095] In the second embodiment, the base 27 includes an oblique connecting section 29, which allows the housings 15, 16 to be offset transversely from the plane formed by the front wall 6. In this way, the housings 15, 16 and the battery 4 extend entirely within the internal volume V.

[0096] Advantageously, a connecting section 29 includes a rib 28, allowing the rigidity of the connecting section 29 to be reinforced.

[0097] In the first embodiment shown, the base 27 includes at least one connecting section 30 allowing the transverse positions of the tabs 19, 20, 21 to be defined.

[0098] In certain embodiments, for example the second embodiment, the base 27 comprises a basic section 31 defining a plane, or a plurality of a plan extending in a longitudinal plane. Such a basic section 31 makes it possible to stiffen the support pieces 8, 9.

[0099] Advantageously, the support pieces 8, 9 include a third side 32 and a fourth side 33. When a support piece 8, 9 is attached to the front wall 6, the third side 32 is positioned near the first lateral edge 13 or the second lateral edge 14, depending on whether it is the first support piece 8 or the second support piece 9.

[0100] Advantageously, the support pieces 8, 9 comprise a first positioning surface 34, a second positioning surface 35, and a guiding surface 36, all three provided on a stopping zone 37, in the vicinity of the third side 32.

[0101] As illustrated in particular on [Fig.7], in the first embodiment, the positioning surfaces 34, 35 both extend along a longitudinal plane, the first positioning surface 34 being offset transversely with respect to the second positioning surface 35, the transverse offset being of a dimension close to the thickness of the front wall 6.

[0102] In the first embodiment, the guide surface 36 connects the first positioning surface 34 to the second positioning surface 35. The guide surface 36 extends parallel to a horizontal plane, making it possible to form a plane to achieve a stop in translation of the support piece 8, 9 in the vertical direction.

[0103] Advantageously, the stopping zone 37 terminates with a stopping surface 43, which extends in a plane parallel to the transverse plane.

[0104] Advantageously, and as can be seen for example in figures 3 and 11, the front wall 6 includes a bearing area 38, and a notch 39.

[0105] In some embodiments, the bearing area 38 and the notch 39 are located on a first lateral edge 13, or a second lateral edge 14. In other embodiments, the bearing area 38 and the notch 39 are located on a first longitudinal edge 11, or a second lateral edge 12. In this way, it is possible to form a stop for the support piece 8, 9 in several different locations.

[0106] Advantageously, and as can be seen in [Fig.3], a notch 39 encompasses for example a border 40, including a horizontal fraction 41 connected to a vertical fraction 42.

[0107] When the support piece 8, 9 is positioned against a lateral edge 13, 14, the bearing area 38 is brought into contact with the first positioning surface 34, the notch 39 receiving the second positioning surface 35, for example by positioning the second positioning surface 35 against the edge 40.

[0108] In such a configuration, the horizontal fraction 41 is in contact with the guide surface 36 and the vertical fraction 42 is in contact with a stop surface 43. Such an arrangement makes it easier to secure the support parts 8, 9, simplifying the assembly and disassembly of the battery 4.

[0109] The first dwelling 15 and the second dwelling 16 are now described with particular reference to Figures 6, 7, 14 and 15.

[0110] In the embodiments shown, the first housing 15 is arranged on the first support piece 8, while the second housing 16 is arranged on the second support piece 9.

[0111] In other embodiments not shown, the first housing 15 is arranged on the second support piece 9, while the second housing 16 is arranged on the first support piece 8.

[0112] Advantageously, the battery 4 includes a lateral surface integrating an introduction surface 45 of complementary shape to a wing 44, allowing the battery 4 to be introduced into the housing 15, 16.

[0113] In the embodiments shown, each housing 15, 16 includes a wing 44 defining a general shape of a portion of a hollow cylinder, or of a shaft. The wing 44 comprises a first edge 47 and a second edge 48.

[0114] In the first embodiment, the first bank 47 of the wing 44 of the first housing 15 is free, while the second bank 48 is connected to the base 27.

[0115] In the first embodiment, the first bank 47 and the second bank 48 of the wing 44 of the second housing 15 are both free.

[0116] As can be seen in the figures, when the support pieces 8, 9 are attached to the front wall 6, the housings 15, 16 are aligned along a longitudinal direction, that is to say that the axes generating each of the wings 44 are aligned.

[0117] In the embodiments shown, the wings each define a portion of a cylinder of revolution. Also, the battery 4 is easily inserted into a housing 15, 16 thanks to the geometry of the portion of the cylinder of revolution which does not require the user to apply a rotation about the longitudinal axis to perfectly align the battery 4 with the cylindrical housing 15, 16.

[0118] In embodiments not shown, the battery 4 has a polygonal, for example rectangular, inlet surface 45. In such a configuration, the wing 44 defines a portion of a hollow cylinder with a rectangular cross-section. In such embodiments, the battery 4 cannot pivot within the housings 8, 9.

[0119] Advantageously, the wing 44 of the first support 8 has a dimension slightly larger than the dimension of the introduction surface 45 of the battery 4. In this way, it A gap is left allowing the battery 4 to be inserted into the first compartment 15, thus enabling longitudinal movement of the battery 4.

[0120] Advantageously, the power supply assembly 100 includes a retaining wall 46 extending within the cavity formed by the wing 44. Such a retaining wall acts as a translational stop, preventing the battery 4 from moving out towards the first lateral edge 14 or the second lateral edge 15, depending on the location of the retaining wall 46.

[0121] In the first embodiment shown, the retaining wall 46 is formed in the first support 8 and extends vertically. The retaining wall 46 provides support to prevent, for example during transport, the battery from unintentionally sliding out towards the first lateral edge 14.

[0122] In the second embodiment shown, the second support piece comprises two retaining walls 46, arranged vertically and parallel to each other. Each retaining wall 46 comprises a plurality of slots 56 having a dimension slightly smaller than the connector, ensuring that the connector is held in place when inserted into the slots. One slot 56 forms a clamping means, holding the connector in place and thus providing a stop.

[0123] Advantageously, a slot 56 extends from one end of the retaining wall 46, thus allowing an electrical wire to be slid vertically from the connector. A slot 56 exerts pressure on the electrical wire once inserted, preventing it from easily dislodging due to movement.

[0124] Advantageously, the use of two retaining walls 46, each equipped with aligned slots 56, allows for wedging in two distinct locations, thus strengthening the retention. It is also possible to leave some slack to prevent the connector from being too tightly stretched between the battery 4 and the slot 56.

[0125] Advantageously, the wing 44 of the second housing 16 is deformable, the distance between the first edge 47 and the second edge 48 being variable in reaction to a thrust exerted during the introduction of a battery 4 into the second housing 16. Also, thanks to such a second housing 16, it is possible to introduce the battery 4 by snapping it into the second housing 16.

[0126] Advantageously, the first edge 47 and the second edge 48 of the second housing 16 each include a non-return bead 55, promoting the securing of the battery 4 with the wing 44 of the second housing 16. Such a non-return bead 55 increases the adhesion between the battery 4 and the wing 44, preventing any unintentional movement of the battery 4, for example during the transport of the obscuring device 1.

[0127] Advantageously, the second housing 16 includes a reservation 49, located near the third side 32, allowing sufficient passage to be placed cables and any cable bundles, or cable harnesses. This way, the cables do not interfere with the installation of battery 4.

[0128] In the first embodiment shown, the housings 15, 16 are opposite the opening 10, that is, they are in the same vertical position. In other words, the housings 15, 16 are visible when an observer positioned on a longitudinal plane faces the opening 10. In this way, the battery 4 is positioned opposite the opening 10, allowing easy access for the user and facilitating the replacement of the battery 4.

[0129] In the second embodiment shown, the housings 15, 16 are offset, vertically offset relative to the opening 10. In other words, the housings 15, 16 are invisible when an observer positioned on a longitudinal plane faces the opening 10, and are hidden by the front wall 6. In this way, the battery 4 is offset relative to the opening 10, and is positioned within the internal space V near the junction line J.

[0130] Commonly in the embodiments shown, the photovoltaic panel 3 includes positioning holes 50, the front wall 6 incorporates positioning perforations 51, and the support pieces 8, 9 each include a positioning orifice 52, advantageously made within the stopping area 37.

[0131] The feed assembly 100 advantageously comprises cylindrical fixing means 53, visible for example in [Fig.5], each of them being inserted and passing successively through a positioning hole 50, a positioning orifice 52, and a positioning perforation 51. In other words, a positioning hole 50, a positioning orifice 52, and a positioning perforation 51 are aligned.

[0132] In the embodiments shown, the cylindrical fixing means 53 allow in particular the support pieces 8, 9 to be held in position against the lateral edges 13, 14 of the front wall 6.

[0133] In the embodiments shown, the cylindrical fixing means 53 also allow the photovoltaic panel 3 to be assembled to the front wall 6.

[0134] Also, in the embodiments shown, a single cylindrical fixing means 53 allows the photovoltaic panel 3, the support pieces 8, 9 to be assembled together with the front wall 6. Such an arrangement facilitates the assembly and disassembly of the power supply unit, and access to the battery 4 since it is sufficient to act only on the cylindrical actuation means to access and replace the battery 4.

[0135] In the embodiments shown, a cylindrical fastening means 53 is a screw, for example, engaged in the positioning holes 52. The perforations positioning holes 51, and positioning holes 50 have, for example, a diameter greater than that of the threaded part of the screw.

[0136] In other embodiments not shown, the cylindrical fastening means 53 includes a threaded rod provided with a manual actuation means, for example a knob, allowing manual actuation of the fastening means 53, and avoiding the use of a screwdriver.

[0137] An example of a method for mounting the battery 4 within a casing 2 is now described.

[0138] A first support piece 8 is positioned opposite the opening 10, the first housing 15 facing outwards from the box 2, i.e. opposite the internal volume V.

[0139] The first support piece 8 is positioned in a longitudinal position located between the first lateral edge 13 and the second lateral edge 14, but closer to the first lateral edge 13 than to the second lateral edge 14.

[0140] The first support piece 8 is pivoted about the longitudinal axis in a direction from the Y axis to the Z axis. In such a position, the first contact plane 22 is brought close to the front wall 6, at the level of the first longitudinal edge 11.

[0141] When the first contact plane 22 touches the front wall 6, the first support piece 8 is pivoted in a direction from the Z axis to the Y axis, which allows the second tab 20 to come into contact with the second longitudinal edge 12.

[0142] Next, a pushing force is exerted to push the first support piece 8 towards the internal volume V, so as to elastically deform the second tab 20, which then passes through the front wall 6, so as to end up in the internal volume V. The third tab 21, via the third contact plane 24, is against the front wall 6. The first support piece 8 can slide within the opening 10.

[0143] A second support piece 9 is positioned within the opening 10 in the same manner described above for the first support piece 8, mutatis mutandis. The power supply assembly 100 is then in an intermediate configuration.

[0144] From such a configuration, the first support piece 8 is pushed against the first lateral edge 13, the second support piece 9 is pushed against the second lateral edge 14.

[0145] The battery is then slid into the first compartment 15, then clipped into the second compartment 16 by pressing towards the internal volume V. The battery 4 is then connected to the geared motor using the connector.

[0146] The photovoltaic panel 3 is connected to the connector, then the entire connector assembly is pushed into the recess 49 provided for this purpose. The photovoltaic panel 3 is positioned on the opening 10 and the positioning holes 50 are placed opposite the positioning holes 51, while fastening means secure the photovoltaic panel 3 to the front wall 6.

[0147] Such a process is quick to perform, simple, and requires minimal tools. The process does not require dismantling the front panel 6, avoiding overly strenuous manipulations for the user, which reduces the time their arms are above their shoulders. The risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders is therefore reduced.

[0148] The assembly 100 and the blackout device 1 as described above have the following advantages:

[0149] - ease of battery maintenance, not requiring qualification no particular tool, nor any specific tool

[0150] - possibility of pre-mounting the battery on the front panel 6 from the factory, the battery 4 being immobilized within its housing 15, 16 without the possibility of movement and in particular longitudinal sliding during its transport,

[0151] - manufacturing cost minimized by minimizing the number of parts and the processes implemented.

Claims

1.

2. Demands Power supply assembly (100) for a motorized rolling blackout device (1) for a bay window, the power supply assembly (100) comprising: - a battery (4) intended to be connected to a photovoltaic panel (3), - a box (2) defining an internal volume (V), the box (2) comprising a front wall (6) provided with an opening (10) intended to be covered by a photovoltaic panel (3), - the opening (10) incorporating longitudinal edges (11, 12), connected to each other by a first lateral edge (13) and a second lateral edge (14), the power supply assembly (100) comprising a first support piece (8) and a second support piece (9), both intended to be secured to the front wall (6), by being respectively inserted and then positioned by sliding against the first lateral edge (13) and the second lateral edge (14), the support pieces (8, 9) each including a housing (15, 16) suitable for holding the battery (4), when the support pieces (8, 9) are secured to the front wall (6), the housings (15, 16) both extend within the internal volume (V). Power supply assembly (100) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that a support piece (8, 9) has a first side (17) comprising a first tab (19), and a second side (18) comprising a second tab (20) and a third tab (21), the first tab (19) incorporating a first longitudinal contact plane (22), the second tab (20) incorporating a second longitudinal contact plane (23), the third tab (21) incorporating a third contact plane (24) coplanar with the first contact plane (22), the second contact plane (23) and the third contact plane (24) being transversely offset from each other, when the support piece (8, 9) is fixed to the front wall (6), the front wall (6) being interposed between the second contact plane (23) and the third contact plane (24).

3. Power supply assembly (100) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the first tab (19) comprises a first connecting surface (25) and the third tab (21) comprises a second connecting surface (26), the connecting surfaces (25, 26) being coplanar and extending along a longitudinal plane, the connecting surfaces (25, 26) forming a longitudinal support plane for receiving the photovoltaic panel (3).

4. Power supply assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the battery (4) comprises a cylindrical inlet surface (45), the first part (8) comprising a first housing (15), the second part (9) comprising a second housing (16), the housings (15, 16) each comprising a wing (44) defining a portion of a cylinder, when the first part (8) and the second part (9) are secured to the front wall (6), the wings (44) are aligned along a longitudinal direction.

5. Power supply assembly (100) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that a wing (44) comprises a first edge (47), and a second edge (48), the wing (44) being sufficiently deformable so as to ensure a variation in spacing between the first edge (47) and the second edge (48), in reaction to a thrust exerted during the introduction of the battery (4) into the introduction surface (45), allowing the battery (4) to be clipped onto the support piece (8, 9).

6. Feeding assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a support piece (8, 9) comprises a stop zone (37), the stop zone (37) encompassing a guide surface (36) included in a longitudinal plane, a first positioning surface (34), a second positioning surface (35), the positioning surfaces (34, 35) both extending along a longitudinal plane, the first positioning surface (34) being offset transversely with respect to the second positioning surface (35), a lateral edge (13, 14) including a bearing face (38) configured to be in contact with the first positioning surface (34), and a notch (39) configured to receive the second positioning surface (35), the second positioning surface (35) being intended to abut against the edge (40).

7. Power supply assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a housing (15, 16) is provided with a stop wall (46) so as to constitute a translational stop for the battery (4).

8. Power supply assembly (100) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that it comprises a connector for connecting the battery (4) to a geared motor and a photovoltaic panel (3), the stop wall (46) comprising at least one slot (56) for receiving a connector, the slot (56) forming a clamping means for the connector.

9. Power supply assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that when the support pieces (8, 9) are secured to the front wall (6), the housings (15, 16) are opposite the opening (10).

10. Power supply assembly (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that when the support pieces (8, 9) are secured to the front wall (6), the housings have a vertical offset relative to the opening (10).

11. Power supply assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the photovoltaic panel (3) includes a positioning hole (50), the front wall (6) incorporates a positioning perforation (51), and a support piece (8, 9) includes a positioning orifice (52), when the support piece (8, 9) is attached to the front wall (6) and the photovoltaic panel (3) is fixed to the front wall (6), the same mechanical fastening means (53) passes successively through the positioning hole (50), the positioning perforation (51), and the positioning orifice (52).

12. Motorized rolling blackout device (1) for bay, the blackout device (1) comprising a blackout element, a geared motor, a control system, and a power supply assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims.

Citation Information

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