Method for controlling the operation of an electromechanical actuator for a blinding device, electromechanical actuator and associated blinding device

Abstract

A method for controlling an electromechanical actuator for a blinding device during operation, including the associated electromechanical actuator and blinding device. A method for controlling an electromechanical actuator during operation includes a winding step (E100) of a screen, from a lower limit position of a bar or from a position of the bar located between the lower limit position and an arm break position, and, during the winding step (E100), a first control step (E11) of the actuator along a rotational speed ramp (V) from a first rotational speed setpoint (V1) of an output shaft of the actuator up to a second rotational speed setpoint (V2) of the output shaft, strictly greater than the first setpoint.so as to pass the breaking point of the arms at a rotational speed (Vc) of the output shaft located between the first and second setpoint values ​​(V1, V2). Figure for the abbreviation: Figure 5.

Description

Title of the invention: Method for controlling the operation of an electromechanical actuator for a blinding device, electromechanical actuator and associated blinding device

[0001] The present invention relates to a method of controlling in operation an electromechanical actuator for a blackout device, in other words a blackout device.

[0002] The present invention also relates to an electromechanical actuator for a blackout device, in other words an electromechanical actuator of a blackout device, as well as a blackout device comprising a screen driven in movement by such an electromechanical actuator.

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

[0004] A motorized drive device includes an electromechanical actuator of a movable solar protection element, such as a blind or any other equivalent material, hereinafter referred to as a screen.

[0005] French patent document FR 2 816 465 A1 already describes a method for controlling an electromechanical actuator that rotates a roller tube of a blinding device, in this case, a roller shutter. The blinding device comprises the roller tube, a screen, a bar, two arms, and the electromechanical actuator. One end of the screen is attached to the roller tube. The other end of the screen is attached to the bar. One end of each arm is attached to a support structure of the blinding device. The other end of each arm is attached to the bar. The arms are configured to be folded or unfolded as the screen is wound or unwound around the roller tube.The electromechanical actuator is configured to wind and unwind the screen around the winding tube, and to bend and unbend the arms, between an upper and lower limit positions of the bar. The arms have a break position. This break position is located between the lower and upper limit positions of the bar. The electromechanical actuator includes an electric motor, an output shaft, and a control unit. The output shaft is connected to the winding tube. The process includes a winding step. of the screen, from the lower end position of the bar, by means of the electromechanical actuator.

[0006] In the case of such a blackout device, the moment when the torque value to be supplied by the electromechanical actuator is maximum corresponds to the crossing of the breaking position of the arms, from the lower end-of-stroke position of the bar or from a position of the bar located between the lower end-of-stroke position of the bar and the breaking position of the arms.

[0007] In [Fig.7] of the present application, the graph illustrates by a first curve, presenting symbols in the shape of a circle, the evolution of a value of torque C supplied by the electromechanical actuator of the prior art, as a function of time t, and by a second curve, presenting symbols in the shape of a diamond, the evolution of a value of rotational speed V of the output shaft, as a function of time t.

[0008] This [Fig.7] is the characteristic representation of the evolution of the value of the torque C delivered by the electromechanical actuator and of the evolution of the value of the rotation speed V of the output shaft, as a function of time t, during the winding of the screen from the lower end position of the bar to the upper end position of the bar.

[0009] Time t is represented on the x-axis, the value of torque C supplied by the electromechanical actuator is represented on the y-axis to the left of [Fig.7] and the value of rotational speed V of the output shaft is represented on the y-axis to the right of [Fig.7].

[0010] The crossing of the breaking position of the arms is illustrated in [Fig.7] by the peak of a torque value supplied by the electromechanical actuator following the start of the electromechanical actuator, from the lower end-of-stroke position of the bar.

[0011] Thus, when the arms pass the breaking position from the lower limit position of the bar or from a bar position located between the lower limit position of the bar and the arm breaking position, the control unit supplies electrical energy to the electric motor with electrical power reaching a maximum power value. This maximum power value is taken into account for the sizing of the electric motor, the control unit's power supply module, and, optionally, a battery and a photovoltaic panel, when these constitute the electrical power supply source for the electromechanical actuator.

[0012] However, this control method has the disadvantage of implementing, during the screen winding step, a control step of the electromechanical actuator to a nominal rotation speed setpoint Vn of the output shaft as soon as the electromechanical actuator starts, as illustrated in [Fig.7].

[0013] Thus, the breaking position of the arms is crossed by commanding the electromechanical actuator so as to apply the nominal rotation speed setpoint Vn of the output shaft.

[0014] Consequently, the breaking position of the arms is crossed following the attainment of the nominal rotational speed setpoint Vn of the output shaft, as illustrated in [Fig.7],

[0015] In this way, the electromechanical actuator and, optionally, its power supply are defined for a required power value according to the starting point of the screen winding stage.

[0016] Here, the maximum power value therefore corresponds to a nominal torque value associated with a nominal rotational speed value Vn of the output shaft.

[0017] Consequently, the maximum power consumption and the average power consumption during the screen winding stage are high and, in particular, unfavorable to the use of an electrical power supply for the electromechanical actuator consisting of a battery and, possibly, a photovoltaic panel.

[0018] In addition, the start-up of the electromechanical actuator, during the winding stage of the screen, implemented at the nominal rotation speed setpoint Vn of the output shaft, generates a jolt S of the screen during and following the crossing of the breaking position of the arms.

[0019] The screen jolt S corresponds to a moment when a screen material relaxes. This screen jolt S is visible in [Fig. 7] and is evidenced by strong variations in the output shaft rotational speed during and after passing through the arm break position. The time period of the screen jolt S is enclosed by a solid line in [Fig. 7].

[0020] The S-type shock tends to reduce the lifespan of the electromechanical actuator and necessitates sizing the electromechanical actuator to withstand this shock, which tends to increase its cost. Furthermore, this shock results in a transient voltage fault in the screen, which induces an apparent quality defect in the shading device.

[0021] The present invention aims to resolve the aforementioned drawbacks and to propose a method for controlling the operation of an electromechanical actuator for a shading device, an electromechanical actuator for a shading device, and a shading device comprising such an electromechanical actuator, making it possible to reduce the maximum power consumed by the electromechanical actuator during the winding stage, to avoid or limit a jolt of the screen when passing through the arm break position, and to minimize the cost of obtaining the electromechanical actuator and, Optionally, its power source, when this consists of a battery and, possibly, a photovoltaic panel. The present invention also aims to extend the lifespan of the electromechanical actuator, without increasing its cost, and to improve the perceived quality of the shading device.

[0022] In this regard, the present invention relates, according to a first aspect, to a method of controlling the operation of an electromechanical actuator for a blackout device,

[0023] the obscuring device comprising at least:

[0024] - a winding tube,

[0025] - a screen, one end of the screen being fixed to the winding tube,

[0026] - a bar, a second end of the screen being fixed to the bar,

[0027] - at least two arms, one end of each arm being fixed to a supporting structure of the shading device, one end of each arm being fixed to the bar, the arms being configured to be folded or unfolded depending on the winding or unwinding of the screen around the winding tube, and

[0028] - the electromechanical actuator, the electromechanical actuator being configured for to wind and unwind the screen around the winding tube, as well as to fold and unfold the arms, between an upper end position of the bar and a lower end position of the bar, the arms having a breaking position, the breaking position of the arms being located between the lower end position of the bar and the upper end position of the bar,

[0029] the electromechanical actuator comprising at least:

[0030] - an electric motor,

[0031] - an output shaft, the output shaft being connected to the winding tube, and

[0032] - a control unit,

[0033] the method comprising at least:

[0034] - a screen winding step, starting from the lower end-of-travel position of the bar or a position of the bar located between the lower end position of the bar and the breaking position of the arms, by means of the electromechanical actuator.

[0035] According to the invention, the method further comprises, at least during the screen winding step, a first step of controlling the electromechanical actuator according to a rotational speed ramp from a first output shaft rotational speed setpoint to a second output shaft rotational speed setpoint, the second rotational speed setpoint being strictly greater than the first rotational speed setpoint, so as to pass the arm breaking position at a value of output shaft rotation speed being between the first rotation speed setpoint value and the second rotation speed setpoint value.

[0036] Thus, the control method makes it possible to reduce the maximum power consumed by the electromechanical actuator during the winding stage, to avoid or limit any jolting of the screen when passing through the arm break position, and to minimize the cost of obtaining the electromechanical actuator and, potentially, its power supply, when the latter consists of a battery and, possibly, a photovoltaic panel. The control method also makes it possible to extend the service life of the electromechanical actuator without increasing its cost and to improve the perceived quality of the shading device.

[0037] In this way, the first control step allows the electromechanical actuator to be controlled by applying an upward rotation speed ramp, from the lower end position of the bar or from a position of the bar located between the lower end position of the bar and the breaking position of the arms.

[0038] Consequently, the breaking position of the arms is crossed by controlling the electromechanical actuator so as to apply a rotation speed setpoint of the output shaft located between the first rotation speed setpoint value and the second rotation speed setpoint value.

[0039] In this way, the breaking position of the arms is crossed at a rotational speed of the output shaft which is strictly greater than the first rotational speed setpoint value but strictly less than the second rotational speed setpoint value.

[0040] According to an advantageous feature of the invention, the method further comprises, during the screen winding step and following the first electromechanical actuator control step, a second electromechanical actuator control step to the second rotation speed setpoint value, the second rotation speed setpoint value being implemented after the breaking position of the arms has been crossed.

[0041] According to another advantageous feature of the invention, the rotation speed ramp is defined by a predetermined duration, for the transition from the first rotation speed setpoint value to the second rotation speed setpoint value.

[0042] Alternatively, the rotation speed ramp is defined by learning the evolution of a value of at least one quantity during the winding of the screen, for the passage from the first rotation speed setpoint value to the second rotation speed setpoint value.

[0043] According to another advantageous feature of the invention, the first output shaft speed setpoint is a minimum output shaft speed setpoint. Furthermore, the second output shaft speed setpoint is a nominal output shaft speed setpoint.

[0044] The present invention relates, according to a second aspect, to an electromechanical actuator for a blackout device, according to the invention and as mentioned above.

[0045] According to the invention, the control unit is configured to implement the process, in particular the steps of the process, according to the invention and as mentioned above.

[0046] This electromechanical actuator has characteristics and advantages similar to those described above in relation to the method according to the invention.

[0047] According to an advantageous feature of the invention, the electric motor is of the electronically commutated brushless type.

[0048] The present invention relates, according to a third aspect, to an occultation device, in accordance with the invention and as mentioned above.

[0049] According to the invention, the electromechanical actuator conforms to the invention and as mentioned above.

[0050] This occulting device has characteristics and advantages similar to those described above, in relation to the method according to the invention and the electromechanical actuator according to the invention.

[0051] According to an advantageous feature of the invention, the shading device further comprises an electrical power supply device, the electrical power supply device forming a source of electrical power for the electromechanical actuator. Furthermore, the electrical power supply device comprises at least one battery.

[0052] According to another advantageous feature of the invention, the electrical power supply device further comprises at least one photovoltaic panel, the photovoltaic panel being electrically connected to the battery.

[0053] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description, made with reference to the accompanying drawings, given by way of non-limiting examples and in which:

[0054] [Fig.1] [Fig.1] is a schematic perspective view of a blackout installation according to an embodiment of the invention, the blackout installation comprising a blackout device according to the invention;

[0055] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a schematic perspective view of the installation of occultation illustrated in [Fig.1], where a box of the occultation device has been removed and where a screen of the occultation device is shown partially transparent;

[0056] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is a schematic axial and partial cross-sectional view of the blackout installation illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, showing an electromechanical actuator of a motorized drive device of the blackout device;

[0057] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is a block diagram of a method, according to the invention, of control in operation of the electromechanical actuator illustrated in [Fig.3];

[0058] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] is a first graph representing, on the one hand, the evolution of a value of a torque supplied by the electromechanical actuator and, on the other hand, the evolution of a value of a rotation speed of an output shaft of the electromechanical actuator as a function of time, when the control method according to the invention, as represented in [Fig.4], is implemented;

[0059] [Fig. 6] [Fig. 6] is a second graph representing the evolution of the power consumed by the electromechanical actuator as a function of time, when the control method according to the invention, as shown in [Fig. 4], is implemented; and

[0060] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] is a third graph analogous to the first graph, when a prior art control method, as described in the introductory part of the description, is implemented.

[0061] A shading installation 1 according to an embodiment of the invention is described first, with reference to Figures 1 and 2. This shading installation 1 comprises at least one shading device 3. This shading installation 1, installed in a building (not shown), has at least one opening (not shown) in which a window or door (not shown) is located. This shading installation 1 is equipped with at least one screen 2 belonging to the shading device 3, in particular a motorized arm blind. The shading device 3 may advantageously be located above a terrace or balcony. The screen 2 of the shading device 3 serves to more or less obscure the opening, a wall of the building, and / or a surface of the terrace or balcony.

[0062] A solar protection system is an example of a shading system. Similarly, a solar protection device is an example of a shading device.

[0063] The shading or solar protection installation is hereafter referred to as "shading installation" 1.

[0064] The shading or solar protection device is hereafter referred to as the "shading device" 3. The shading device 3 comprises the screen 2.

[0065] With reference to figures 1 and 2, an arm blind conforming to the embodiment of the invention is described.

[0066] The occulting device 3 includes a motorized drive device 5. The motorized drive device 5 includes an electromechanical actuator 11 illustrated in [Fig.3].

[0067] The screen 2 is configured to be moved, in other words is moved, by means of the motorized drive device 5 and, more particularly, of the electromechanical actuator IL

[0068] Here, screen 2 is formed by a canvas.

[0069] Advantageously, the fabric forming the screen 2 is made from a textile material.

[0070] Advantageously, the fabric forming the screen 2 is designed to be waterproof and air-resistant, in other words, it is resistant to rain and wind.

[0071] Advantageously, the shading device 3, in particular the motorized drive device 5, further comprises a winding tube 4. The screen 2 is windable onto the winding tube 4. In addition, the winding tube 4 is arranged so as to be driven in rotation by the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0072] Thus, the screen 2 of the occulting device 3 is wound on the winding tube 4 or unwound around it, the winding tube 4 being driven by the motorized drive device 5, in particular by the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0073] In this way, the screen 2 is mobile between a rolled-up position, in particular high, and an unrolled position, in particular low, and vice versa.

[0074] The screen 2 of the shading device 3 is a shading and / or sun protection screen, rolling and unrolling around the winding tube 4, the inner diameter of which is greater than the outer diameter of the electromechanical actuator 11, so that the electromechanical actuator 11 can be inserted into the winding tube 4, when assembling the shading device 3.

[0075] The electromechanical actuator 11 is, for example, of the tubular type. This allows the winding tube 4 to be rotated around an axis of rotation X, so as to move, in particular unwind or wind, the screen 2.

[0076] In an assembled state of the occulting device 3, the electromechanical actuator 11 is inserted into the winding tube 4.

[0077] The occultation device 3 further comprises a bar 8.

[0078] The screen 2 comprises a first end 2a and a second end 2b, the second end 2b being opposite the first end 2a.

[0079] The first end 2a of the screen 2, in particular the upper end of the screen 2 in an assembled configuration of the blackout device 3 in the blackout installation 1, is fixed to the winding tube 4. In addition, the second end 2b of the screen 2, in particular the lower end of the screen 2 in the assembled configuration of the blackout device 3 in the blackout installation 1, is fixed to the bar 8.

[0080] The occultation device 3 further comprises two arms 6. Only one of the two arms 6 is visible in [Fig.1], the other of the two arms 6 being masked by the screen 2.

[0081] In an alternative, not shown, the occultation device 3 includes a number of arms 6 greater than two, in particular depending on the dimensions of the screen 2.

[0082] The arms 6 are configured to be folded or unfolded, in other words are folded or unfolded, depending on the winding or unwinding of the screen 2 around the winding tube 4.

[0083] Thus, the arms 6 are articulated to allow the winding and unwinding of the screen 2 around the winding tube 4.

[0084] Advantageously, each arm 6 comprises at least a first arm segment 6a and a second arm segment 6b. Each of the first and second arm segments 6a, 6b comprises a first end and a second end, the second end being opposite the first end. The second end of the first arm segment 6a is connected to the first end of the second arm segment 6b, in particular via a joint 7.

[0085] In this way, the joint 7 of each arm 6 is arranged between the first and second arm segments 6a, 6b.

[0086] Here, the joint 7 is arranged in the central part of each arm 6, so as to allow the first and second arm segments 6a, 6b to pivot relative to each other around an axis of rotation, not shown.

[0087] Let a be a defined angle between the first and second arm segments 6a, 6b.

[0088] The occultation device 3 further comprises a supporting structure 10.

[0089] Advantageously, a first end of each arm 6, in particular the first end of the first arm segment 6a, in other words the upper end of each of the arms 6 in the assembled configuration of the shading device 3 in the shading installation 1, is fixed to the supporting structure 10. In addition, a second end of each arm 6, in particular the second end of the second arm segment 6b, in other words the lower end of each of the arms 6 in the assembled configuration of the shading device 3 in the shading installation 1, is fixed to the bar 8.

[0090] Advantageously, the supporting structure 10 is configured to be fixed, in other words is fixed, to a wall of the building, in particular in the assembled configuration of the shading device 3 in the shading installation 1.

[0091] Advantageously, the fixing of the load-bearing structure 10 to the wall of the building is implemented by means of screw-fixing elements.

[0092] Here and as illustrated in [Fig.1], the supporting structure 10 includes at least one box 9.

[0093] Alternatively or in addition, the supporting structure 10 includes a support 22 disposed at each of the two ends of the winding tube 4, as illustrated in [Fig.2],

[0094] Advantageously, the box 9 includes two cheeks, not shown. One cheek is disposed, in other words is configured to be disposed, at each end of the box 9 and at each end of the winding tube 4, in particular in an assembled configuration of the occulting device 3.

[0095] Thus, the winding tube 4 is held by means of the box 9, in particular by means of the sides of the box 9 and / or by means of the supports 22.

[0096] In this way, the box 9 and / or the supports 22 make it possible to mechanically link the occultation device 3 to the structure of the building, in particular to a wall of the building.

[0097] Advantageously, the winding tube 4 is disposed, in other words is configured to be disposed, inside the box 9, in particular in the assembled configuration of the blackout device 3. Furthermore, the screen 2 is housed, in other words is configured to be housed, at least in part inside the box 9, in particular in the assembled configuration of the blackout device 3.

[0098] Generally, the box 9 is disposed, in other words is configured to be disposed, above the opening provided in the building, in particular in the assembled configuration of the shading device 3 in the shading installation 1.

[0099] Advantageously, each arm 6 further comprises a spring, not shown, so that the screen 2 unfolds under the effect of the springs. The spring of each arm 6 is compressed when the arms 6 are in the folded position.

[0100] Advantageously, the spring is arranged inside the joint 7.

[0101] Advantageously, each arm 6 further includes a stop mechanism, not shown, which can be adjusted.

[0102] Thus, this arm stop mechanism 6 makes it possible to limit the maximum angular displacement of the first arm segment 6a relative to the second arm segment 6b. The value of the maximum angular displacement of the first arm segment 6a relative to the second arm segment 6b is advantageously strictly less than 180° and, preferably, strictly less than 150°.

[0103] In one embodiment, not shown, the first end 2a of the screen 2 has a hem through which a rod, in particular made of plastic, is inserted. This hem at the first end 2a of the screen 2 is formed by stitching the fabric of the screen 2. During the assembly of the screen 2 on the winding tube 4, the hem and the rod located at the first end 2a of the screen 2 are inserted by sliding into a groove formed on the external face of the winding tube 4, in particular along the entire length of the winding tube 4, so as to be able to wind and unwind the screen 2 around the winding tube 4.

[0104] The method of attaching the screen 2 to the winding tube 4 is not limiting and may vary. It may be implemented, for example, by means of one or more straps or one or more joints attached, in particular by screwing or riveting, to the winding tube 4.

[0105] Here, the screen 2 and the arms 6 are configured to be moved, by means of the motorized drive device 5 and, more particularly, of the electromechanical actuator 11, between a high position, corresponding to the rolled-up position of the screen 2 and folded position of the arms 6 and which can also be called the first end-of-stroke position of the bar 8 or the high end-of-stroke position of the bar 8, and a low position, corresponding to the unrolled position of the screen 2 and unfolded position of the arms 6 and which can also be called the second end-of-stroke position of the bar 8 or the low end-of-stroke position of the bar 8.

[0106] Here, each arm 6 has a so-called break position, which can also be called the locking position. The break position of the arms 6 is located between the lower end position of the bar 8 and the upper end position of the bar 8. This break position corresponds to a position of the shading device 3 in which the arms 6 reach their maximum extension and where the tension of the screen 2 switches from a tensed state to a slack state, or vice versa.

[0107] The breaking position of the arms 6 of the occulting device 3 can also be defined as a position in which the torque delivered by the electromechanical actuator 11 takes a maximum value, when the screen 2 is unrolled or when the screen 2 is wound around the winding tube 4.

[0108] Here, the upper limit position corresponds to the bar 8 being pressed against an edge of the housing 9 or to the bar 8 stopping in a programmed position. Furthermore, the lower limit position corresponds to the bar 8 stopping in a programmed position, in particular beyond the arm break position 6, in which the screen 2 is taut.

[0109] Thus, the electromechanical actuator 11 is configured to drive, in other words drives, in movement the screen 2, between the upper end position and the lower end position, and vice versa.

[0110] Advantageously, the motorized drive device 5 is controlled by a control unit. The control unit can be, for example, a unit of local control 12 or a central control unit 13, as illustrated in [Fig.2],

[0111] Advantageously, the local control unit 12 can be connected, by wired or wireless link, with the central control unit 13.

[0112] Advantageously, the central control unit 13 can control the local control unit 12, as well as other similar local control units distributed throughout the building.

[0113] The motorized drive device 5 is preferably configured to execute the commands for unwinding or rolling up the screen 2 of the blackout device 3, which can be issued, in particular, by the local control unit 12 or the central control unit 13.

[0114] The blackout installation 1 comprises either the local control unit 12, or the central control unit 13, or the local control unit 12 and the central control unit 13.

[0115] Control means for the electromechanical actuator 11, enabling the movement of the screen 2 of the occulting device 3, include at least one control unit 15, in particular an electronic control unit.

[0116] This control unit 15 belongs to the motorized drive device 5 and, more particularly, to the electromechanical actuator 11. It is capable of starting up an electric motor 16 of the electromechanical actuator 11 and, in particular, of enabling the supply of electrical energy to the electric motor 16.

[0117] Thus, the control unit 15 controls, in particular, the electric motor 16, so as to raise or lower the screen 2, as described previously.

[0118] The control means for the electromechanical actuator 11 include hardware and / or software means.

[0119] By way of non-limiting example, the material means may include at least one microcontroller 31, as illustrated in [Fig.3].

[0120] Advantageously, the control unit 15 further comprises a first communication module 27, as illustrated in [Fig.3], in particular for receiving control orders, the control orders being issued by an order transmitter, such as the local control unit 12 or the central control unit 13, these orders being intended to control the motorized drive device 5.

[0121] Advantageously, the first communication module 27 of the control unit 15 is of the wireless type. In particular, the first communication module 27 is configured to receive radio control commands.

[0122] Advantageously, the first communication module 27 can, as a complement or alternative, allow the reception of control orders transmitted by wired means.

[0123] Advantageously, the control unit 15, the local control unit 12 and / or the central control unit 13 can be in communication with a weather station, not shown, located inside the building or outside the building, including, in particular, one or more sensors that can be configured to determine, for example, a temperature, a brightness, or a wind speed, in the case where the weather station is located outside the building.

[0124] Advantageously, the control unit 15, the local control unit 12 and / or the central control unit 13 can also be in communication with a server 28, as illustrated in [Fig.2], so as to control the electromechanical actuator 11 according to data made available remotely via a communication network, in particular an internet network that can be connected to the server 28.

[0125] The control unit 15 can be operated from the local control unit 12 and / or the central control unit 13. The local control unit 12 and / or the central control unit 13 is equipped with a control keypad. The control keypad of the local control unit 12 or the central control unit 13 includes one or more selection elements 14 and, optionally, one or more display elements 34.

[0126] By way of non-limiting examples, the selection elements may include pushbuttons and / or touch-sensitive keys. The display elements may include light-emitting diodes and / or a display, for example LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or TFT (Thin Film Transistor). The selection and display elements may also be implemented using a touchscreen.

[0127] Advantageously, the local control unit 12 and / or the central control unit 13 includes at least a second communication module 36.

[0128] Thus, the second communication module 36 of the local control unit 12 or of the central control unit 13 is configured to transmit, in other words, sends out, control orders, in particular by wireless means, for example radioelectric, or by wired means.

[0129] In addition, the second communication module 36 of the local control unit 12 or of the central control unit 13 can also be configured to receive, in other words receives, control orders, in particular through the same means.

[0130] Advantageously, the second communication module 36 of the local control unit 12 or of the central control unit 13 is configured to communicate, in other words communicates, with the first communication module 27 of the control unit 15.

[0131] Thus, the second communication module 36 of the local control unit 12 or of the central control unit 13 exchanges control orders with the first communication module 27 of the control unit 15, either unidirectionally or bidirectionally.

[0132] Advantageously, the local control unit 12 is a control point, which may be fixed or portable. A fixed control point may be a control box intended to be fixed to the facade of a building wall or to the face of a fixed window or door frame. A portable control point may be a remote control, a smartphone, or a tablet.

[0133] Advantageously, the local control unit 12 and / or the central control unit 13 further includes a controller 35.

[0134] The motorized drive device 5, in particular the control unit 15, is preferably configured to execute movement control commands, in particular unwinding or rolling, of the screen 2 of the shading device 3. These control commands can be issued, in particular, by the local control unit 12 or by the central control unit 13.

[0135] When a command to unwind the screen 2 is received by the control unit 15, the electromechanical actuator 11 rotates the winding tube 4 in a first direction, called the unfolding of the screen 2, and releases the arms 6, so as to unfold them, in particular under the action of the springs.

[0136] When a command to wind the screen 2 is received by the control unit 15, the electromechanical actuator 11 rotates the winding tube 4 in a second direction, opposite to the first direction, called the folding of the screen 2, and folds the arms 6, in particular by compressing the springs.

[0137] The control unit 15 is configured to stop the electromechanical actuator 11, following the receipt of a stop command issued by one of the control units 12, 13, or following the determination of the attainment of one of the lower end positions of the bar 8, in other words of complete unwinding of the screen 2, or upper end position of the bar 8, in other words of complete winding of the screen 2.

[0138] The motorized drive device 5 can be controlled by the user, for example by receiving a command order corresponding to a press on the or one of the selection elements 14 of the local control unit 12 or of the central control unit 13.

[0139] Advantageously, the blackout installation 1 further comprises at least one sensor, not shown.

[0140] As an addition or alternative, the sensor can be integrated into the weather station.

[0141] Advantageously, the sensor includes at least one second communication module 36, such as that described with reference to the local control unit 12 or the central control unit 13. In addition, the second communication module 36 of the sensor is configured to communicate, that is to say, communicates, with the first communication module 27 of the control unit 15.

[0142] Advantageously, the sensor can be, for example, an illuminance sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor or a wind sensor.

[0143] Thus, the motorized drive device 5 can also be controlled automatically by receiving a control order corresponding to at least one signal from the sensor.

[0144] In addition or alternatively, the motorized drive device 5 can also be controlled automatically by receiving a control command corresponding to at least one signal from a clock, not shown, of the control unit 15, in particular the microcontroller 31.

[0145] In addition or alternatively, the sensor and / or the clock can be integrated into the local control unit 12 or the central control unit 13.

[0146] The motorized drive device 5, including the electromechanical actuator 11, belonging to the blackout installation 1 and, more particularly, to the blackout device 3 illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, is now described in more detail with reference to [Fig.3].

[0147] The electromechanical actuator 11 includes the electric motor 16.

[0148] The electric motor 16 is represented by its casing in [Fig.3], without details on its internal constituent elements.

[0149] Advantageously, the electric motor 16 is housed, in other words mounted, inside a casing 17, particularly in an assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0150] Advantageously, the electric motor 16 comprises a rotor and a stator, not shown and positioned coaxially around the axis of rotation X, which is also the axis of rotation of the winding tube 4 in the mounted configuration of the motorized drive device 5.

[0151] Here, the electric motor 16 is of the electronically commutated brushless type, also called “BLDC” (acronym for the Anglo-Saxon term BrushLess Direct Current) or “permanent magnet synchronous”.

[0152] Advantageously, the electric motor 16, in particular the rotor, includes a shaft, not shown.

[0153] Advantageously, the electromechanical actuator 11 further comprises a reducer 19.

[0154] The reducer 19 is coupled, in other words is configured to be coupled, with the electric motor 16, in particular in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0155] Advantageously, the electromechanical actuator 11 further comprises a torque transmission device, not shown.

[0156] Here, the torque transmission device consists of a single-piece component, which can also be called a cardan joint.

[0157] Here, an input shaft, not shown, of the reducer 19 is coupled, in other words is configured to be coupled, with the shaft of the electric motor 16 via the torque transmission device, in particular in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0158] Advantageously, the reducer 19 comprises one or more reduction stages, not shown. The reduction stage, one of the reduction stages, or each reduction stage may be of the epicyclic type.

[0159] The number of reduction stages of the reducer is not limited. The number of reduction stages can be one, two, or three or more.

[0160] Advantageously, the electromechanical actuator 11 further comprises the housing 17, in particular tubular.

[0161] Advantageously, the reducer 19 and the torque transmission device are housed, in other words mounted, inside the casing 17, particularly in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0162] Here, the housing 17 is hollow. The housing 17 comprises a first end 17a and a second end 17b. The second end 17b is opposite the first end 17a.

[0163] Here, the housing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11 is cylindrical in shape, in particular of revolution around the axis of rotation X, and is open at each of its ends 17a, 17b.

[0164] Advantageously, the housing 17 is a tube having a circular cross-section.

[0165] Here, the housing 17 is made of a metallic material.

[0166] The material of the electromechanical actuator housing is not limiting and may be different. In particular, it may be a plastic material.

[0167] Advantageously, the electromechanical actuator 11 further comprises a crown 30, which can also be called a sleeve.

[0168] The crown 30 is disposed, in other words is configured to be disposed, in the vicinity of the first end 17a of the housing 17, in particular in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0169] Advantageously, the motorized drive device 5 and, more particularly, the electromechanical actuator 11 further comprises an electrical power cable 18, as illustrated in [Fig.3].

[0170] Advantageously, the control unit 15 can be supplied with electrical energy by means of the power supply cable 18. The power supply cable 18 is electrically connected to at least one source of electrical power supply.

[0171] In one embodiment, the electrical power supply source is a battery 24, which can be recharged, in particular by means of a photovoltaic panel 25 and / or a charger, not shown, or through an electrical power supply network, not shown.

[0172] As an alternative or in addition, not shown, the source of electrical power supply is a mains electrical power supply network.

[0173] In another variant or in addition, not shown, the source of electrical power supply is a so-called "PoE" (acronym for the Anglo-Saxon term Power over Ethernet) electrical power supply network, in other words, a power supply network via Ethernet cable.

[0174] Advantageously, the control unit 15 further includes a circuit, not shown, for rectifying an alternating voltage from the electrical power supply source.

[0175] Advantageously, the control unit 15 further comprises a power supply module, not shown. The power supply module supplies electrical energy, in other words, is configured to supply electrical energy sequentially to coils, not shown, of the electric motor 16, so as to produce a rotating electromagnetic field causing the rotor of the electric motor 16 to rotate.

[0176] Advantageously, the power supply module is electrically connected to a DC voltage source +Vbus. The value of the DC voltage +Vbus is defined with respect to a reference voltage Gnd.

[0177] Advantageously, the power supply module includes switches for sequential power supply to the coils.

[0178] Here, the switches of the power supply module are MOSFET type transistors (acronym for Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor) and there are six of them.

[0179] The type and number of switches in the power supply module are not limiting. In particular, the switches in the power supply module may be IGBT type transistors (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor).

[0180] Advantageously, the obscuring device 3 and, more particularly, the motorized drive device 5 further comprises an electrical power supply device 26, visible in [Fig. 3]. The electrical power supply device 26 forms, that is to say, is the source of electrical power for the electromechanical actuator 11 and, in particular, for at least the control unit 15 and the electric motor 16.

[0181] Here, the electromechanical actuator 11 is electrically connected to the electrical power supply device 26.

[0182] The electrical power supply device 26 is configured to supply, in other words supplies, electrical power to the electromechanical actuator 11 and, more particularly, to the control unit 15 and the electric motor 16.

[0183] In an example embodiment illustrated in [Fig.2], the electrical power supply device 26 includes at least the battery 24.

[0184] Thus, the electrical power supply device 26 makes it possible to supply electrical power to the electromechanical actuator 11, without itself being electrically connected to a mains power supply network.

[0185] Advantageously, the electrical power supply device 26 further comprises at least the photovoltaic panel 25. In addition, the photovoltaic panel 25 is electrically connected to the battery 24.

[0186] Advantageously, the electromechanical actuator 11 is electrically connected to the electrical power supply device 26 and, more particularly, to the battery 24, in particular by means of the electrical power supply cable 18.

[0187] The battery 24 is configured to supply, in other words provides, electrical energy to the electromechanical actuator 11, in particular the control unit 15 and the electric motor 16.

[0188] Advantageously, the battery 24 is configured to be powered, in other words is supplied, with electrical energy by the photovoltaic panel 25.

[0189] Thus, the recharging of the battery 24 is carried out by solar energy, by means of the photovoltaic panel 25.

[0190] In the embodiment illustrated in [Fig.3], the battery 24 is located outside the box 9.

[0191] Alternatively, not shown, the battery 24 can be disposed at the level of the box 9, in particular inside the box 9, inside the winding tube 4 while being outside the housing 17, or inside the housing 17, in particular in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11. In the latter case, the electromechanical actuator 11 includes the battery 24.

[0192] Here, the electromechanical actuator 11 includes the power supply cable 18 enabling its supply of electrical energy, in particular the power supply of the control unit 15 and the power supply of the electric motor 16, in particular from the battery 24.

[0193] Here, the battery 24 is electrically connected directly to the control unit 15, by the power supply cable 18.

[0194] Thus, the power supply cable 18 allows the electromechanical actuator 11, in particular the control unit 15 and the electric motor 16, to be supplied with electrical energy from the source(s) of electrical power supply.

[0195] Advantageously, the electromechanical actuator 11 further comprises an output shaft 20.

[0196] The output shaft 20 is disposed, in other words is configured to be disposed, in the vicinity of the second end 17b of the housing 17, in particular in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0197] Advantageously, the output shaft 20 of the electromechanical actuator 11 is disposed inside the winding tube 4 and at least partly outside the housing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0198] Advantageously, one end of the output shaft 20 of the electromechanical actuator 11 is projecting from the housing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11, in particular from the second end 17b of the housing 17.

[0199] Advantageously, the output shaft 20 of the electromechanical actuator 11 is configured to drive, or in other words, rotate, a connecting element 39. This connecting element 39 is connected to the winding tube 4, particularly in the assembled configuration of the shading device 3. The connecting element 39 is, for example, in the form of a wheel. This connecting element 39 is rotationally fixed, about the axis of rotation X, to both the output shaft 20 and the winding tube 4.

[0200] When the electromechanical actuator 11 is switched on, the electric motor 16 and the reducer 19 drive the output shaft 20 of the electromechanical actuator 11 in rotation around the axis of rotation X. In addition, the output shaft 20 of the electromechanical actuator 11 drives the winding tube 4 in rotation around the axis of rotation X via the connecting element 39.

[0201] Thus, the winding tube 4 causes the screen 2 of the occulting device 3 to rotate, so as to unwind or wind the screen 2.

[0202] Advantageously, the electromechanical actuator 11 further comprises a brake 29.

[0203] The brake 29 is configured to brake and / or lock the output shaft 20 in rotation, so as to regulate the rotational speed of the winding tube 4, during a moving the screen 2, and keeping the winding tube 4 blocked, when the electromechanical actuator 11 is electrically deactivated.

[0204] Advantageously, the brake 29 is housed, in other words mounted, inside the housing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11, particularly in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0205] Here, brake 29 is a spring brake.

[0206] Alternatively, not shown, brake 29 is a magnetic brake, a cam brake or an electromagnetic brake.

[0207] Here and as seen in [Fig.3], the brake 29 is configured to be disposed, in other words is disposed, in particular in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11, between the electric motor 16 and the reducer 19, that is to say at the output of the electric motor 16.

[0208] In an alternative, not shown, the brake 29 is configured to be disposed, in other words is disposed, in particular in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11, between the control unit 15 and the electric motor 16, in other words at the input of the electric motor 16, between the reducer 19 and the output shaft 20, in other words at the output of the reducer 19, or between two reduction stages of the reducer 19.

[0209] Advantageously, the electromechanical actuator 11 further includes a device for detecting end-of-travel and / or obstacle conditions during the movement of the screen 2. This device for detecting end-of-travel and / or obstacle conditions can be mechanical or electronic.

[0210] Advantageously, the limit switch and / or obstacle detection device is implemented by means of the microcontroller 31 of the control unit 15 and, in particular, by means of an algorithm implemented by this microcontroller 31.

[0211] The winding tube 4 is driven in rotation about the axis of rotation X and the housing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11 by means of two pivot joints. The first pivot joint is made at one end of the winding tube 4 by means of the ring 30. The ring 30 thus provides a bearing. The second pivot joint, not shown, is made at a second end of the winding tube 4, opposite the first end.

[0212] The crown 30 forms, in other words is configured to form or constitute, a rotational guide bearing for the winding tube 4, in particular in the assembled configuration of the occulting device 3.

[0213] Advantageously, the electromechanical actuator 11 further comprises a torque support 21.

[0214] Here, the torque support 21 is disposed at the first end 17a of the housing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11, in particular in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0215] The torque support 21 allows the forces exerted by the electromechanical actuator 11 to be absorbed, in particular the torque exerted by the electromechanical actuator 11, with respect to the building structure. Advantageously, the torque support 21 also allows the forces exerted by the winding tube 4 to be absorbed, in particular the weight of the winding tube 4, the electromechanical actuator 11, and the screen 2, and ensures that these forces are absorbed by the building structure.

[0216] Thus, the torque support 21 allows the electromechanical actuator 11 to be fixed on a frame, in particular to one of the sides of the box 9 or to one of the supports 22.

[0217] Advantageously, the torque support 21 protrudes at the first end 17a of the housing 17.

[0218] Advantageously, the torque support 21 closes, in other words is configured to close, the first end 17a of the housing 17, particularly in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0219] Furthermore, the torque support 21 of the electromechanical actuator 11 can support at least part of the control unit 15.

[0220] Advantageously, the torque support 21 is fixed, or rather configured to be fixed, to the housing 17 by means of one or more fixing elements, not shown, particularly in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11. The fixing element(s) may be, in particular, bosses, fixing screws, elastic snap-fit ​​fixing elements, ribs fitted into notches or a combination of these different fixing elements.

[0221] Advantageously, the torque support 21 comprises a first part 21a, which can also be called a "fixed point", and a second part 21b, which can also be called an "actuator head".

[0222] Advantageously, the first part 21a of the torque support 21 is assembled, in other words is configured to be assembled, with the housing 17, in particular in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11. Furthermore, the second part 21b of the torque support 21 is configured to be assembled, in other words is assembled, with the box 9 or one of the supports 22, in particular in an assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11 in the occulting device 3.

[0223] In the embodiment illustrated in [Fig.3], the torque support 21 is made of a single piece, in other words a single piece, forming the first and second parts 21a, 21b of the torque support 21.

[0224] In another embodiment, not shown, the second part 21b of the torque support 21 is assembled, in other words is configured to be assembled, on the first part 21a of the torque support 21, in particular in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11. In this case, the second part 21b of the torque support 21 is assembled on the first part 21a of the torque support 21 by means of assembly elements.

[0225] Thus, in this case, the torque support 21 consists of at least two separate parts, each forming respectively the first and second parts 21a, 21b of the torque support 21.

[0226] In this way, the second part 21b of the torque support 21 can be interchangeable with the first part 21a of the torque support 21, in particular depending on the shape and type of the retaining elements, not shown, arranged at the level of the box 9.

[0227] Advantageously, the second part 21b of the couple support 21 can have different external shapes, including a fluted shape, known as "star-shaped", in other words including reliefs on its contour, or a round shape, in other words without reliefs on its contour, not shown.

[0228] Advantageously, at least a portion of the first part 21a of the torque support 21 is generally cylindrical in shape and is disposed, in other words is configured to be disposed, inside the housing 17, in particular in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0229] Advantageously, an outside diameter 021 of at least a portion of the second part 21b of the torque support 21 is greater than an outside diameter 017 of the housing 17.

[0230] Advantageously, the torque support 21 further comprises a stop 33, as illustrated in [Fig. 3]. In addition, the stop 33 is supported, that is to say, is configured to bear against the housing 17, at the first end 17a of the housing 17, particularly in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0231] Thus, the stop 33 of the torque support 21 allows the sinking of the first part 21a of the torque support 21 into the housing 17 to be limited, along the direction of the axis of rotation X.

[0232] In this way, the first part 21a of the torque support 21 is arranged inside the housing 17 and the second part 21b of the torque support 21 is arranged outside the housing 17.

[0233] Here, the stop 33 of the torque support 21 includes a shoulder.

[0234] In one embodiment, as illustrated in [Fig. 3], the ring 30 is disposed or inserted, in other words is configured to be disposed or inserted, around a part of the housing 17, in particular in the assembled configuration of the actuator electromechanical 11. In this case, the crown 30 is mounted to rotate freely around the housing 17.

[0235] In an alternative, not shown, the ring 30 is disposed or inserted, in other words is configured to be disposed or inserted, around the torque support 21, in particular the first part 21a of the torque support 21, especially in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11. In this case, the ring 30 is mounted freely to rotate around the torque support 21, in particular the first part 21a of the torque support 21.

[0236] In another variant, not shown, the ring 30 is disposed or inserted, in other words is configured to be disposed or inserted, on the one hand, around the torque support 21 and, on the other hand, around a part of the housing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11, in particular the first end 17a of the housing 17, especially in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11. In such a case, the ring 30 is mounted free to rotate, on the one hand, around the torque support 21 and, on the other hand, around the housing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0237] Advantageously, the torque support 21 further includes a cover, not shown.

[0238] The cover is mounted, in other words is configured to be mounted, on the torque support 21, in particular on the second part 21b of the torque support 21, in particular in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0239] The control unit 15 is housed, in other words mounted, at least in part inside the housing 17, in particular in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0240] Here and as illustrated in [Fig.3], the control unit 15 is arranged, in other words is integrated, inside the housing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0241] In addition or alternatively, not shown, the control unit 15 is mounted partly or entirely outside the housing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11 and, in particular, in the torque support 21 or in the box 9.

[0242] Advantageously, the control unit 15 comprises at least one electronic board 15a. The electronic board or boards 15a are supplied with electrical energy by means of the power supply cable 18.

[0243] Here, the control unit 15 comprises a single electronic card 15a.

[0244] Advantageously, the torque support 21 comprises, or rather integrates, at least one selection device, not shown, in particular a button, which may be, for example, of the push-button or magnetic type. Furthermore, the selection device or devices are configured, in particular, to adjust the electromechanical actuator 11 through one or more configuration modes, to pair one or more control units with the electromechanical actuator 11. 12, 13, to reset one or more parameters, which could be, for example, an end position, to reset the paired control unit(s) 12, 13 or to control the movement of screen 2.

[0245] Advantageously, the torque support 21 comprises, in other words integrates, at least one display device, not shown. Furthermore, the display device or devices are configured, in particular, to display a visual indication, which may, for example, be representative of an operating mode of the electromechanical actuator 11, in particular a configuration mode or a control mode, or of a state of a component of the motorized drive device 5.

[0246] Advantageously, when the torque support 21 includes a display device, the operating parameter that this display device allows to be viewed is a state of charge of the battery 24.

[0247] In an alternative, not shown, the control unit 15 comprises a first electronic board 15a and a second electronic board. The first electronic board 15a is located inside the housing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11, particularly in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11. Furthermore, the second electronic board is located inside the torque support 21 of the electromechanical actuator 11, particularly in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11. Advantageously, the first electronic board 15a is configured to control the electric motor 16. Furthermore, the second electronic board is configured to, in particular, access the parameter setting and / or configuration functions of the electromechanical actuator 11, by means of the selection device(s) and, optionally, the display device(s).

[0248] Advantageously, the electromechanical actuator 11 further comprises a counting device, not shown.

[0249] The counting device is configured to cooperate, that is to say, cooperates, with the control unit 15. In addition, the counting device and the control unit 15 are configured to determine a position, which may be called "current", of the screen 2.

[0250] Advantageously, the control unit 15 is configured to monitor at least one signal from the counting device at a predetermined frequency, in particular depending on the position of the screen 2.

[0251] In one embodiment, the counting device is of the magnetic type.

[0252] In such a case, the counting device may include an encoder wheel and one or more sensors, not shown, in particular Hall effect sensors.

[0253] In one embodiment, the counting device comprises two sensors.

[0254] The number of sensors is not limited and may vary. It may be, for example, one or three.

[0255] In one embodiment, the ring gear 30 comprises, on its inner face, teeth (not shown) configured to cooperate with a pinion (not shown) installed inside the torque support 21 or, alternatively, inside the housing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11. In this case, the encoder wheel is connected to the pinion, in particular by means of a shaft (not shown). Thus, the teeth of the ring gear 30 are configured to drive the pinion in rotation, so as to count the number of revolutions of the winding tube 4. In this case, the teeth of the ring gear 30 and the pinion form part of the counting device.

[0256] Alternatively, not shown, the encoder wheel is connected to the shaft of the electric motor 16. In addition, the sensor or each sensor is assembled on an electronic board of the control unit 15, in particular on a third electronic board or on the first electronic board 15a.

[0257] Thus, the counting device makes it possible to determine the number of revolutions made by the shaft of the electric motor 16.

[0258] Alternatively, not shown, the counting device may be without sensors. In this case, the counting device is configured to, in cooperation with the control unit 15, analyze the control signals for supplying electrical power to the electric motor 16 and determine a position, which may be called "current", of the rotor of the electric motor 16 and, consequently, of the output shaft 20 of the electromechanical actuator 11 and the winding tube 4.

[0259] In an alternative, not shown, the counting device allows the number of revolutions made by the output shaft 20 of the electromechanical actuator 11 to be determined.

[0260] The counting device also allows the direction of rotation of the winding tube 4 to be determined and / or the end-of-travel positions of the screen 2 to be managed.

[0261] The type of counting device is not limiting and may be different, in particular optical, for example an encoder equipped with one or more optical sensors, or time-based.

[0262] In the embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 3], the power supply cable 18 comprises a first electrical connector 37 and a second electrical connector 38. The power supply cable 18 further comprises first electrical conductors, not shown, and second electrical conductors, not shown. The first electrical conductors are electrically connected to the first electrical connector 37. The second electrical conductors are electrically connected to the second electrical connector 38. In addition, the first electrical connector 37 is configured to be connected, i.e., is electrically connected, to the battery 24, and the second electrical connector 38 is configured to be connected, i.e., is electrically connected, to the photovoltaic panel 25, in particular in an assembled configuration of the motorized drive device 5 and, consequently, of the occulting device 3.

[0263] Furthermore, the electromechanical actuator 11 also includes a radio antenna 23. In addition, the radio antenna 23 is electrically connected, or is configured to be electrically connected, to the control unit 15 and, consequently, to the first communication module 27, in particular in the assembled configuration of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0264] Here, the radio antenna 23 is made in the form of a wire, in particular a metallic one, which may be, for example, made of copper or aluminum. In addition, this wire is covered with an electrical insulation sheath, that is to say, is housed in an electrical insulation sheath, which may be, for example, made of plastic.

[0265] Advantageously, the wire forming the radio antenna 23 is disposed partly outside the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0266] Here, the radio antenna 23 is an integral part of the power supply cable 18. In other words, the power supply cable 18 includes the radio antenna 23.

[0267] In an alternative, not shown, the radio antenna 23 is separate from the power supply cable 18.

[0268] In another variant, not shown, the radio antenna 23 is made using a coaxial cable.

[0269] In another variant, not shown, the radio antenna 23 is made by means of a printed circuit board, which can, for example, be integrated into one of the electronic boards, 15a or equivalent, of the control unit 15.

[0270] Advantageously, the 24 battery is of the rechargeable type.

[0271] Advantageously, the battery 24 comprises a plurality of energy storage elements 32, in particular electrically connected in series. The energy storage elements 32 of the battery 24 may be, in particular, rechargeable accumulators.

[0272] Advantageously, the photovoltaic panel 25 comprises a plurality of photovoltaic cells 40. In this case, the battery 24 is supplied with electrical energy by means of the photovoltaic cells 40 of the photovoltaic panel 25.

[0273] The motorized drive device 5, in particular the photovoltaic panel 25 and / or the control unit 15, includes charging elements configured to charge the battery 24, from the solar energy recovered by the photovoltaic panel 25. In this case, the current flows between the components 25, 24 and 15 through a wired connection, in particular made by the power supply cable 18.

[0274] Thus, the charging elements configured to charge the battery 24, from solar energy, make it possible to convert the solar energy recovered by the photovoltaic panel 25 into electrical energy.

[0275] Alternatively or in addition, the motorized drive device 5, in particular the electromechanical actuator 11, is supplied with electrical energy from the battery 24, from an auxiliary battery, not shown, or from a mains power supply network, in particular from the commercial AC network, in particular depending on a state of charge of the battery 24.

[0276] Here, the electronic board 15a is configured to control the electric motor 16, to allow the charging of the battery 24 and, optionally, to access parameter setting and / or configuration functions of the electromechanical actuator 11, by means of selection and, optionally, display devices, not shown. As mentioned above, the battery charging elements 24 can be arranged on the electronic board 15a.

[0277] Alternatively, the first electronic board 15a is configured to control the electric motor 16. Furthermore, a second electronic board, not shown, is configured to allow charging of the battery 24 and, optionally, access to parameterization and / or configuration functions of the electromechanical actuator 11, by means of selection and, optionally, display elements, not shown. The battery charging elements 24 may be located on the second electronic board.

[0278] Advantageously, the photovoltaic panel 25 can be fixed to the box 9, to a wall of the building, to the bar 8, to a pane of glass in a window or to a fixed frame of a window.

[0279] With reference to [Fig.4], we now describe an embodiment of a method, according to the invention, for controlling the operation of the electromechanical actuator 11, illustrated in [Fig.3], for the occulting device 3, illustrated in Figures 1 and 2.

[0280] In [Fig.5], the graph illustrates by a first curve, presenting symbols in the shape of a circle, the evolution of a value of torque C supplied by the electromechanical actuator 11, as a function of time t, and by a second curve, presenting symbols in the shape of a diamond, the evolution of a value of rotational speed V of the output shaft 20, as a function of time t.

[0281] This [Fig.5] is the characteristic representation of the evolution of the value of torque C delivered by the electromechanical actuator 11 and the evolution of the value of the rotational speed V of the output shaft 20, as a function of time t, during the winding of the screen 2 from the lower end-of-stroke position of the bar 8, or alternatively from a position of the bar 8 located between the end-of-stroke position bottom of bar 8 and the breaking position of arms 6, up to the upper end-of-stroke position of bar 8.

[0282] Time t is represented on the x-axis, the value of torque C supplied by the electromechanical actuator 11 is represented on the y-axis to the left of [Fig.5] and the value of rotational speed V of the output shaft 20 is represented on the y-axis to the right of [Fig.5].

[0283] In [Fig.6], the graph illustrates by a curve, in solid line, the evolution of a value of power P consumed by the electromechanical actuator 11, as a function of time t.

[0284] This [Fig.6] is the characteristic representation of the evolution of the value of the power P consumed by the electromechanical actuator 11, as a function of time t, during the winding of the screen 2 from the lower end position of the bar 8, or alternatively from a position of the bar 8 located between the lower end position of the bar 8 and the breaking position of the arms 6, up to the upper end position of the bar 8.

[0285] Time t is represented on the x-axis and the value of power P consumed by the electromechanical actuator 11 is represented on the y-axis.

[0286] The crossing of the breaking position of the arms 6 is illustrated in [Fig. 5] by the peak of the torque value C supplied by the electromechanical actuator 11 following the start of the electromechanical actuator 11, from the lower end position of the bar 8 or from a position of the bar 8 located between the lower end position of the bar 8 and the breaking position of the arms 6. Similarly, the crossing of the breaking position of the arms 6 is illustrated in [Fig. 6] by the peak of the power value P consumed by the electromechanical actuator 11 following the start of the electromechanical actuator 11, from the lower end position of the bar 8 or from a position of the bar 8 located between the lower end position of the bar 8 and the breaking position of the arms 6.

[0287] The method includes a winding step E100 of the screen 2, from the lower end position of the bar 8 or from a position of the bar 8 located between the lower end position of the bar 8 and the breaking position of the arms 6, by means of the electromechanical actuator 11.

[0288] During the winding step E100 of the screen 2, the method includes a first control step El 1 of the electromechanical actuator 11 according to a rotational speed ramp from a first rotational speed setpoint value VI of the output shaft 20 up to a second rotational speed setpoint value V2 of the output shaft 20, the second rotational speed setpoint value V2 being strictly greater than the first rotational speed setpoint value VI, so as to cross the breaking position of the arms 6 at a rotational speed value V of the output shaft 20 located between the first rotational speed setpoint value VI and the second rotational speed setpoint value V2.

[0289] Thus, the control method makes it possible to reduce the maximum power value Pmax consumed by the electromechanical actuator 11 during the winding step E100, to avoid or limit a jerk of the screen 2, in other words a phenomenon whereby the fabric forming the screen 2 is slack, when passing through the breaking position of the arms 6, and to minimize the cost of obtaining the electromechanical actuator 11, in particular the power supply module of the control unit 15, and, possibly, its power supply source, when the latter consists of the battery 24 and, possibly, the photovoltaic panel 25. The control method also makes it possible to extend the service life of the electromechanical actuator 11, without increasing its cost price, and to improve the perceived quality of the shading device 3.

[0290] In this way, the first control step Eli allows the electromechanical actuator 11 to be controlled by applying an upward rotation speed ramp, from the lower end position of the bar 8 or from a position of the bar 8 located between the lower end position of the bar 8 and the breaking position of the arms 6.

[0291] Consequently, the breaking position of the arms 6 is crossed by controlling the electromechanical actuator 11 so as to apply a rotation speed setpoint of the output shaft 20 located between the first rotation speed setpoint value VI and the second rotation speed setpoint value V2.

[0292] In this way, the breaking position of the arms 6 is crossed at a rotational speed V of the output shaft 20 which is strictly greater than the first rotational speed setpoint value V1 but strictly less than the second rotational speed setpoint value V2.

[0293] In other words, the first control step El 1 allows the rotation speed setpoint to be increased progressively from the first rotation speed setpoint value VI up to the second rotation speed setpoint value V2 between a start-up instant of the electric motor 16 and an instant beyond the breaking position of the arms 6.

[0294] The first control step El 1 of the electromechanical actuator 11 can also be called a start control step of the electromechanical actuator IL

[0295] Eliminating or limiting the jolt of the screen 2 when crossing the breaking position of the arms 6 improves the perceived quality of the obscuring device 3 when the electromechanical actuator 11 starts, from the lower end position of bar 8 or a position of bar 8 located between the lower end position of bar 8 and the breaking position of arms 6.

[0296] In addition, the control method makes it possible to optimize the rotational speed V of the output shaft 20 during the winding step E100, from the lower end position of the bar 8 or from a position of the bar 8 located between the lower end position of the bar 8 and the breaking position of the arms 6, by avoiding a start of the electromechanical actuator 11 directly at the nominal rotational speed setpoint of the output shaft 20.

[0297] Advantageously, the first rotational speed setpoint VI of the output shaft 20 is a minimum rotational speed setpoint of the output shaft 20. Furthermore, the second rotational speed setpoint V2 of the output shaft 20 is a nominal rotational speed setpoint of the output shaft 20.

[0298] Thus, the breaking position of the arms 6 is crossed at a rotation speed V of the output shaft 20 which is strictly less than the nominal rotation speed setpoint of the output shaft 20.

[0299] Advantageously, the minimum rotational speed setpoint value of the output shaft 20, defined as the first rotational speed setpoint value VI, makes it possible to guarantee the starting of the electric motor 16 without risk of damage to the latter and / or to avoid a blockage of its rotor relative to the stator.

[0300] In one example embodiment, the rotation speed ramp is defined by a predetermined time T, for the transition from the first rotation speed setpoint value VI to the second rotation speed setpoint value V2.

[0301] The predetermined duration T is defined between a first instant t1, which is the instant of exceeding the first rotational speed setpoint value VI, and a second instant t2, which is the instant of reaching the second rotational speed setpoint value V2. The first instant t1 occurs before the breaking position of the arms 6 is crossed, during the execution of the winding step E100. The second instant t2 occurs after the breaking position of the arms 6 is crossed, during the execution of the winding step E100.

[0302] We note te the instant at which the breaking of arms 6 takes place. The instant te is located chronologically between the first and second instants t1, t2.

[0303] Vc denotes the value of the rotational speed V at time te. The value Vc is between the first rotational speed setpoint value VI and the second rotational speed setpoint value V2.

[0304] In the embodiment illustrated in [Fig.5], the upward rotation speed ramp has a constant slope over the predetermined time T, between the first and second instants t1, t2.

[0305] In an alternative, not shown, the upward rotation speed ramp has a variable slope over the predetermined time T, between the first and second instants t1, t2.

[0306] Alternatively, the rotation speed ramp is defined by learning the evolution of a value of at least one quantity during the winding of the screen 2, for the passage from the first rotation speed setpoint value VI to the second rotation speed setpoint value V2.

[0307] The quantity or one of the quantities used for learning may be, for example, the torque C supplied by the electromechanical actuator 11, a duration of a stroke between, on the one hand, the lower end position of the bar 8 or of a position of the bar 8 located between the lower end position of the bar 8 and the breaking position of the arms 6 and, on the other hand, the upper end position of the bar 8, or a supply voltage of the electric motor 16.

[0308] Advantageously, during the winding step E100 of the screen 2 and following the first control step El 1 of the electromechanical actuator 11, the method includes a second control step E12 of the electromechanical actuator 11 to the second rotational speed setpoint value V2. The second rotational speed setpoint value V2 is implemented after the breaking position of the arms 6 has been reached.

[0309] In practice, the second control step E12 starts from the second instant t2, in other words following the attainment of the second rotation speed setpoint value V2.

[0310] Here, the second control step E12 of the electric motor 16 is a control step to maintain the rotational speed setpoint of the output shaft 20 at the second rotational speed setpoint value V2.

[0311] Advantageously, prior to the first control step El 1, the method includes a start-up step E10, in other words a start-up step, of the electromechanical actuator 11 to the first rotation speed setpoint value VI of the output shaft 20.

[0312] Thus, the start-up step E10 is implemented between an instant tO of electrical activation of the electromechanical actuator 11, in particular of the electric motor 16, and the first instant tl of triggering of the rotation speed ramp, implemented during the first control step Eli.

[0313] In this way, the start-up step E10 is a transient time period for starting the electric motor 16, during which fluctuations in the rotational speed V of the output shaft 20 can occur.

[0314] By way of non-limiting example, the transient time period is on the order of five hundred (500) milliseconds.

[0315] In practice, the electrical activation of the electric motor 16 corresponds to a switching of the switches of the power supply module of the control unit 15.

[0316] In an alternative, not shown, the first control step El 1 is implemented from the instant tO of electrical activation of the electromechanical actuator 11, in other words without taking into consideration the transient time period of starting the electric motor 16.

[0317] Thus, the process is implemented by starting directly with the first control step Eli, in other words by omitting the start-up step E10.

[0318] In this way, the instant tO of electrical activation of the electromechanical actuator 11 and the first instant tl of triggering of the rotation speed ramp are coincident.

[0319] Thanks to the present invention, the control method makes it possible to reduce the maximum power consumed by the electromechanical actuator during the winding stage, to avoid or limit a jolt of the screen when passing through the arm break position, and to minimize the cost of obtaining the electromechanical actuator and, optionally, its power supply, when the latter consists of a battery and, possibly, a photovoltaic panel. The control method also makes it possible to extend the service life of the electromechanical actuator without increasing its cost and to improve the perceived quality of the shading device.

[0320] Numerous modifications can be made to the embodiment examples described above, without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0321] Alternatively, the electric motor 16 is of the direct current type.

[0322] In an alternative, not shown, the electrical power supply device 26 further comprises a charger. The charger is configured to be electrically connected, that is, is electrically connected, to the battery 24, either directly to the battery or via the electromechanical actuator 11 and / or the control unit 15. The charger is configured to be plugged, that is, is plugged, into a wall outlet so as to recharge the battery 24 from a mains power supply. This charger constitutes an external electrical power supply.

[0323] In an alternative, not shown, the electrical power supply device 26 further comprises an auxiliary battery, the auxiliary battery being configured to recharge the battery 24. The auxiliary battery is configured to be electrically connected, that is to say, is electrically connected, to the battery 24, either directly to it or through the electromechanical actuator 11 and / or of the control unit 15. Thus, battery 24 can be recharged using the auxiliary battery, which provides an external power supply, particularly when the shading device 3 is located far from a wall outlet. Furthermore, the auxiliary battery can be used to recharge the batteries of other electrical equipment, especially portable devices such as, for example, a mobile phone or a laptop computer.

[0324] Furthermore, the envisaged embodiments and variants can be combined to generate new embodiments of the invention, without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. Demands Method for controlling in operation an electromechanical actuator (11) for a shading device (3), the shading device (3) comprising at least: - a winding tube (4), - a screen (2), a first end (2a) of the screen (2) being fixed to the winding tube (4), - a bar (8), a second end (2b) of the screen (2) being fixed to the bar (8), - at least two arms (6), one end of each arm (6) being fixed to a supporting structure (10) of the shading device (3), the other end of each arm (6) being fixed to the bar (8), the arms (6) being configured to be folded or unfolded depending on the winding or unwinding of the screen (2) around the winding tube (4), and -1 electromechanical actuator (11), the electromechanical actuator (11) being configured to wind and unwind the screen (2) around the winding tube (4), as well as to fold and unfold the arms (6), between an upper end position of the bar (8) and a lower end position of the bar (8), the arms (6) having a break position, the break position of the arms (6) being located between the lower end position of the bar (8) and the upper end position of the bar (8), the electromechanical actuator (11) comprising at least: - an electric motor (16), - an output shaft (20), the output shaft (20) being connected to the winding tube (4), and - a control unit (15), the method comprising at least: - a winding step (E100) of the screen (2), from the lower end position of the bar (8) or from a position of the bar (8) located between the lower end position of the bar (8) and the breaking position of the arms (6), by means of the electromechanical actuator (11), characterized in that the method further comprises at least: - during the winding step (E100) of the screen (2), a first control step (E1) of the electromechanical actuator (11) according to a rotation speed ramp from a first rotation speed setpoint (VI) of the output shaft (20) to a second rotation speed setpoint (V2) of the output shaft (20), the second rotation speed setpoint (V2) being strictly greater than the first rotation speed setpoint (VI), so as to cross the breaking position of the arms (6) at a rotation speed value (Vc) of the output shaft (20) located between the first rotation speed setpoint (VI) and the second rotation speed setpoint (V2).

2. A method for controlling an electromechanical actuator (11) for a blackout device (3) according to claim 1, characterized in that the method further comprises, during the winding step (E100) of the screen (2) and following the first control step (El 1) of the electromechanical actuator (11), a second control step (El2) of the electromechanical actuator (11) to the second rotation speed setpoint value (V2), the second rotation speed setpoint value (V2) being implemented after the breaking position of the arms (6) has been crossed.

3. Method of controlling in operation an electromechanical actuator (11) for a blackout device (3) according to claim 1 or according to claim 2, characterized in that the rotation speed ramp is defined by a predetermined time (T), for the transition from the first rotation speed setpoint value (VI) to the second rotation speed setpoint value (V2).

4. Method of controlling in operation an electromechanical actuator (11) for a blackout device (3) according to claim 1 or according to claim 2, characterized in that the rotation speed ramp is defined by learning the evolution of a value of at least one quantity during the winding of the screen (2), for the passage from the first rotation speed setpoint value (VI) to the second rotation speed setpoint value (V2).

5. A method for controlling the operation of an electromechanical actuator (11) for a blackout device (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the first rotational speed setpoint (VI) of the output shaft (20) is a minimum rotational speed setpoint of the output shaft (20), and in that the second rotational speed setpoint (V2) of the output shaft (20) is a nominal rotational speed setpoint of the output shaft (20).

6. Electromechanical actuator (11) for a blackout device (3), the electromechanical actuator (11) comprising at least: - an electric motor (16), - an output shaft (20), the output shaft (20) being connected to the winding tube (4), and - a control unit (15), characterized in that the control unit (15) is configured to implement the steps of the process according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. Electromechanical actuator (11) for a blackout device (3) according to claim 6, characterized in that the electric motor (16) is of the electronically commutated brushless type.

8. A shading device (3), the shading device (3) comprising at least: - a winding tube (4), - a screen (2), a first end (2a) of the screen (2) being fixed to the winding tube (4), - a bar (8), a second end (2b) of the screen (2) being fixed to the bar (8), - at least two arms (6), a first end of each of the arms (6) being fixed to a supporting structure (10) of the shading device (3) and a second end of each of the arms (6) being fixed to the bar (8), the arms (6) being configured to be folded or unfolded depending on the winding or unwinding of the screen (2) around the winding tube (4), and - an electromechanical actuator (11), the electromechanical actuator (11) being configured to wind and unwind the screen (2) around the winding tube (4), as well as for folding and unfolding the arms (6),between a high end-of-stroke position of the bar (8) and a low end-of-stroke position of the bar (8), the arms (6) having a breaking position, the breaking position of the arms (6), being located between the lower end position of the bar (8) and the upper end position of the bar (8), characterized in that the electromechanical actuator (11) conforms to claim 6 or claim 7.

9. A blackout device (3) according to claim 8, characterized in that the blackout device (3) further comprises an electrical power supply device (26), the electrical power supply device (26) forming a source of electrical power supply for the electromechanical actuator (11), and in that the electrical power supply device (26) comprises at least one battery (24).

10. A blackout device (3) according to claim 9, characterized in that the electrical power supply device (26) further comprises at least one photovoltaic panel (25), the photovoltaic panel (25) being electrically connected to the battery (24).

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