Sunscreen device with variable geometry

Abstract

A sunscreen device (1) comprises a support frame (2) which has a number "p" of sides, a plurality "p" of supports (3), each of which is interposed between two consecutive sides of the support frame (2), a central support (4) placed centrally to the support frame (2), a number "p" of linear guides (5) connected to the support frame (2) and to the central support (4), a plurality of sliders (6) each of which slidably engages a respective one of the linear guides (5), a plurality "p" of frames (7) configured to be folded on themselves which are movably connected to each other and to said sliders (6) to define a deformable surface, a primary transmission cable (8) which extends along the entire perimeter of the support frame (2) and control cables (10) each of which slidably engages a respective slider among the sliders (6) and is operatively connected to the primary transmission cable (8) in such a way that activating the latter a synchronized movement of the sliders (6) is caused and the folding or the stretching of the deformable surface and, therefore, the opening or the closing of the sunscreen device (1).

Description

[0001] SUNSCREEN DEVICE WITH VARIABLE GEOMETRY

[0002] The present invention relates to a sunscreen device with variable geometry, to be applied to the external walls or roof of a building.

[0003] In particular, the present invention relates to a sunscreen device provided with a tensegrity structure which can be selectively deformed, through a primary deformation, between an open or closed configuration, respectively to allow or prevent the passage of light through itself.

[0004] Furthermore, the sunscreen device according to the invention is deformable through a secondary deformation to promote the positioning of one or more of its portions with respect to the light radiation which hits it or to free passages through it, for the passage of light.

[0005] In the construction industry, the production of deformable sunscreen devices which have a tensegrity structure, which can be selectively actuated to allow or hinder the passage of light through them, is known.

[0006] In particular, it is known to equip such sunscreen devices with solar panels to exploit the solar radiation which hits a facade of a building so as to generate electric energy.

[0007] An embodiment of a sunscreen device with a tensegrity structure of the known type comprises a plurality of panels connected movable to each other and relative to a support frame, to define a structure with a triangular footprint.

[0008] The panels can be moved selectively, through actuation members operatively connected to the panels themselves, at a central vertex common to the individual panels to be oriented between a flat position, wherein they determine a closing configuration for the sunscreen device, and an inclined position, wherein they free up openings between them, thus determining an opening configuration for the sunscreen device.

[0009] The panels are connected perimetrically to each other and to the support frame by operating cables configured as elastically extendable ropes, and spring elements or the like, configured to act with an opposite, antagonistic force to that exerted by the control members and determine the recall of the panels in a flat position.

[0010] The actuating members are configured as linear actuators, for example a piston and, when actuated, they push a central portion of the panels away from the support structure, tensioning the perimeter ropes and the spring elements.

[0011] Each of the panels, therefore, has a top portion directly connected to the actuation members.

[0012] In particular, the pistons extend perpendicularly with respect to the arrangement plane of the sunscreen device and define permanent bulk elements for the sunscreen device, regardless of the configuration assumed by the sunscreen device itself.

[0013] The cables which, as mentioned, are elastically extensible when subjected to traction, return the panels to their initial position when the actuation members are actuated in an initial rest configuration.

[0014] The ropes and spring elements keep the panels included in the sunscreen device in tension.

[0015] A drawback that afflicts such a sunscreen device concerns the complexity of the system of ropes necessary to keep the panels in tension. These ropes, in fact, have a complex configuration to allow them to have a high elastic elongation which is not subject to yielding phenomena.

[0016] A permanent deformation of the ropes, in fact, would compromise the correct functioning of the sunscreen device.

[0017] A further drawback that afflicts such a sunscreen device concerns the need to supply energy to actuate the actuation members, which must overcome the resistance determined by the ropes and the spring elements.

[0018] In the event that the sunscreen device includes solar panels, part of the energy produced by them is consumed to power the operating parts, thus reducing the overall energy efficiency of such a solution.

[0019] Again, a drawback of such a sunscreen device concerns the bulk of the support and / or actuation elements, such as for example the pistons, which protrude perpendicularly from the plane of arrangement of the sunscreen device.

[0020] The object of the present invention is to allow the movement of a sunscreen device of the deformable type between an open position, a closed position and intermediate positions between them in an efficient, practical and reliable way.

[0021] A further object of the present invention is to increase the adjustment of the positioning of individual panels included in the sunscreen device to increase the capacity to filter or allow the passage of light through the sunscreen device itself to be applied to a facade of a building.

[0022] Yet another object of the invention is to increase the overall energy efficiency of a sunscreen device provided with solar panels to be applied to a wall of a building. Still, a further object of the invention is to promote the tracking of solar radiation by the solar panels included in the sunscreen device, in the context of an efficient and extremely flexible use solution, i.e. adaptable to specific use requirements.

[0023] The object of the invention is a sunscreen device, configured to be applied to a building, comprising:

[0024] - a support frame configured as a frame, which has a number "p" of sides,

[0025] - a plurality "p" of supports, each of which is interposed between two consecutive sides of said support frame,

[0026] - a central support placed centrally to the support frame,

[0027] - a number "p" of linear guides, wherein each of the linear guides has a first end connected to a respective one of the supports and a second end connected to the central support,

[0028] - a plurality of sliders, each of which slidably engages a respective guide between the linear guides,

[0029] - a plurality "p" of frames configured to be folded on themselves, wherein the frames are mutually hinged defining a deformable surface, each of the frames having a bottom portion hinged to a respective slider between the sliders and a top portion cantilevered with respect to the sliders and disconnected from the central support, wherein the central support is positioned below and spaced with respect to the deformable surface,

[0030] - a primary transmission cable that runs along the entire perimeter of the support frame to which it is slidingly connected,

[0031] - a driving pulley operatively connected to the primary transmission cable, to drive it in motion, and to the support frame,

[0032] - a number "p" of control cables each of which slidably engages a respective slider between the sliders and has a first end constrained to a respective support between the supports, a second end constrained to the central support, a connection point in correspondence of which it is connected to a respective section of the primary transmission cable, wherein a movement of the primary transmission cable relative to the support frame causes a simultaneous actuation of all the control cables and a simultaneous movement of all the sliders towards or away from the central support, according to the direction of actuation of the cable transmission primary causing, respectively, a bending of the deformable surface and an opening of the sunscreen device or a relaxation of the deformable surface and a closing of the sunscreen device. According to another aspect of the invention, each of the control cables can comprise a first section interposed between the first end and the connection point and a second section interposed between the second end and the connection point, wherein the first section and the second section slidingly engage, in mutually opposite positions, the same slider among the sliders.

[0033] According to a further aspect of the invention, the sunscreen device can comprise a number "p" of pairs of pulleys, wherein each pair of pulleys comprises a first pulley and a second pulley both connected to a respective support between the supports and configured to slidingly support the primary transmission cable and the control cables.

[0034] According to an additional aspect of the invention, the sunscreen device 1 can comprise a number "p" covering elements each of which is operatively connected to a respective pair of pulleys, to cover it.

[0035] According to another aspect of the invention, the first section and the second section of the same cable between the control cables can respectively engage a first pulley of a pair between the pairs of pulleys and a second pulley of a subsequent pair between the pair of pulleys, which is positioned along the support frame in an anti-clockwise direction.

[0036] According to a further aspect of the invention, the connection point can be positioned along a section of the primary transmission cable which, in turn, is interposed between the first pulley belonging to a first pair of pulleys and between the second pulley of a further pair of pulleys positioned after the first pair of pulleys along the support frame, in an anticlockwise direction.

[0037] According to an additional aspect of the invention, the sunscreen device can comprise a number "p" of central pulleys connected to the central support, wherein each pulley of the central pulleys supports in a sliding manner a portion of the second section of a respective cable between the command, wherein the portion is sandwiched between a slider between sliders and a pulley between second pulleys.

[0038] According to another aspect of the invention, each slider among the sliders can comprise a first return pulley and a second return pulley opposite each other and slidably engaged by the same cable among the control cables, wherein the first return pulley is engaged by the first section and the second return pulley is engaged by the second section.

[0039] According to a further aspect of the invention, each of the frames can comprise a first portion and a second portion that are flat and configured as a frame, mutually hinged around a central axis or around respective axes parallel to the central axis, wherein the first portion and the second portion are specular to each other with respect to the central axis, the first portion of a first frame between the frames is in turn hinged to a second portion of another frame between the frames adjacent to the first frame, wherein each of the frames has a rotation axis around which a respective slider among the sliders is hinged, the rotation axis of each of the frames being orthogonal to a respective central axis.

[0040] According to an additional aspect, the sunscreen device can comprise first panels, each of which is hinged to a respective first portion around an axis parallel to the central axis, and second panels, each of which is hinged to a respective second portion around an axis parallel to the central axis, wherein the first panels and second panels may in turn comprise one or more solar panels.

[0041] According to another aspect of the invention, the sunscreen device can comprise a secondary drive system operatively connected to at least one of the first panels and / or of the second panels to selectively control their lifting or lowering relative to each of the first portion and the second portion, wherein the secondary drive system comprises:

[0042] - scissor members, each operatively connected to a respective one of the first panels and the second panels,

[0043] - at least one secondary transmission cable operatively connected to a respective between the scissor members and a respective between the first portion and the second portion, transmission members configured to connect the at least one secondary transmission cable with a respective control member, wherein the control member, in turn, is configured to drive the scissor members in motion through the secondary transmission cable to cause the lifting, lowering or holding in position of a respective between the first panels and the second panels.

[0044] According to a further aspect of the invention, the at least one secondary transmission cable can be connected to opposite sides of a respective one between the first portion and the second portion so as to assume a ring configuration comprising a first branch and a second branch, wherein the scissor members comprise a first rod and a second rod, wherein the first rod is connected at a first end thereof, via a joint, to a respective one of the first or second panels and at a second end to a first branch of a respective one of the secondary transmission cables and wherein the second rod is connected at a first end thereof, via a joint, to a respective one of the first or second panels and at a second end to a second branch of a respective one among the secondary transmission cables, wherein the first end of the first rod and the first end of the second rod are mutually aligned along the same direction which is parallel or substantially parallel to a direction along which the second end of the first rod and the second end are movable.

[0045] According to an additional aspect of the invention, the first rod and second rod of each of the scissor members may be rotatable between a lifting configuration, wherein they are aligned parallel and spaced apart from each other and result in the lifting of one of the first or second panels to which they are connected and a lowered configuration wherein they are mutually crossed and lying on the same plane or substantially the same plane of arrangement and determine the lowering of one of the first panels or the second panels to which they are connected.

[0046] According to another aspect of the invention, the sunscreen device can comprise at least one lifting cable connected to the first branch, in such a way that a traction on the lifting cable causes a movement of the secondary transmission cable such as to bring the first rod and the second rod in the raised position and at least one lowering cable connected to the second branch in such a way that a traction on the lowering cable causes a reverse movement of the secondary transmission cable such as to bring the first rod and the second rod to the lowered position.

[0047] According to a further aspect of the invention, the at least one lifting cable and the at least one lowering cable can be operatively connected to a drive pulley such that a pull on one of the at least one lifting cable and the at least one lowering cable causes a release of the other between the lowering cable and the lifting cable.

[0048] The advantages offered by the sunscreen device according to the invention are evident.

[0049] In particular, the sunscreen device according to the invention has an overall simplified structure with respect to that of solutions of the traditional type which comprise a plurality of panels which can be moved selectively between an open position, wherein they free up openings for the passage of light through the sunscreen device, and a closed position wherein they hinder the passage of light through the sunscreen device.

[0050] The sunscreen device according to the invention, in particular, has a support frame to which frames are operatively connected which, in turn, define a deformable surface.

[0051] The individual frames hinged to sliders that slide along the respective linear guides to determine the bending of the deformable surface or its extension, respectively to configure the sunscreen device in an open or closed configuration, wherein the sliders are connected to a system of cables which determine the simultaneous movement.

[0052] The use of a system of operating cables and the reciprocal connection of the single frames which make up the deformable surface allows to control the configuration assumed by the deformable surface according to a solution that is structurally simpler than that of the previous solutions described above, without requiring the use of linear actuators or support elements that protrude orthogonally from the support frame of the sunscreen system.

[0053] Furthermore, the movement of the sliders included in the sunscreen device according to the invention can take place manually or in a motorized way, or a combination thereof, within the context of a solution capable of optimizing, by reducing it, the energy consumption required to move the sunscreen device itself between an open configuration, a closed configuration or intermediate configurations between these.

[0054] Furthermore, the sunscreen device according to the invention can be made with various configurations, intended as development in plan, which can be juxtaposed and operationally connected to each other according to specific needs of use, realizing a substantially unlimited number of possible layout combinations.

[0055] The individual panels that make up the deformable surface of the sunscreen device can be moved simultaneously through a primary movement, to selectively determine the opening or closing of the sunscreen device, or individually through a secondary movement to selectively free openings through the deformable surface.

[0056] The present invention will now be described, for illustrative but not limiting purposes, according to its preferred embodiments, with particular reference to the Figures of the attached drawings, wherein:

[0057] Figure 1 shows a top perspective view of a sunscreen device according to the invention;

[0058] Figure 2 shows a perspective view from above, partially exploded, of some components of the sunscreen device according to the invention;

[0059] Figure 3 shows a partially exploded top perspective view of other components of the sunscreen device according to the invention;

[0060] Figure 4 shows an exploded top perspective view of further components of the sunscreen device according to the invention;

[0061] Figure 5 shows a perspective view of some possible positions which can be assumed by a component included in the sunscreen device according to the invention;

[0062] Figure 6 shows a perspective view from above, partially exploded, of other components of the sunscreen device according to the invention;

[0063] Figure 7 shows an exploded schematic perspective view of some components of the sunscreen device according to the invention;

[0064] Figure 8 shows a top view of the sunscreen device according to the invention, wherein some components have been omitted;

[0065] Figure 9 schematically shows an opening sequence of the sunscreen device according to the invention, starting from a closed configuration (Figure 9a) up to a completely open configuration (Figure 9c), passing through one of the possible intermediate configurations (Figure 9b);

[0066] Figure 10 shows a top perspective view of some components of the sunscreen device according to the invention;

[0067] Figure 11 shows a schematic view of some components of the sunscreen device according to the invention;

[0068] Figure 12 shows an opening sequence of a panel included in the sunscreen device according to the invention, from a bottom perspective, starting from a closed configuration (Figure 12a) up to a completely open configuration (Figure 12c) passing through one of the possible intermediate configurations (Figure 12b).

[0069] Figure 13 shows a top perspective view of a further embodiment of a sunscreen device according to the invention;

[0070] Figure 14 shows a perspective view from above of the sunscreen device of Figure 13, in a completely closed configuration;

[0071] Figure 15 shows a perspective view from above of the sunscreen device of Figure 13, in a completely open configuration;

[0072] Figure 16 shows a schematic exploded view of some components of the sunscreen device of Figure 13;

[0073] Figure 17 shows a side view of the sunscreen device of Figure 13, in a completely closed configuration;

[0074] Figure 18 shows a side view of the sunscreen device of Figure 17 in a possible configuration of use;

[0075] Figure 19 shows a side view of the sunscreen device of Figure 17 in a completely open configuration;

[0076] Figure 20 shows a top view of the sunscreen device of Figure 13 in a completely closed configuration;

[0077] Figure 21 shows a top view of the sunscreen device of Figure 20 in a fully open configuration;

[0078] Figure 22 shows a schematic top view of a further embodiment of a sunscreen device according to the invention;

[0079] Figure 23 shows a schematic top view of yet another embodiment of a sunscreen device according to the invention.

[0080] With reference to the attached Figures 1-11, a first embodiment of a sunscreen device according to the invention is wholly indicated with 1.

[0081] The sunscreen device 1 is configured to be connected to a facade of a building, not shown in the attached figures, optionally together with a plurality of further sunscreen devices 1 to define an adaptive covering for this facade.

[0082] The term "adaptive" is intended to indicate that the configuration of the sunscreen device 1 can be modified according to the environmental conditions wherein the sunscreen device itself is used (for example wind, direction of incidence of light radiation, etc.).

[0083] The sunscreen device 1 according to the invention can be made in different embodiments with reference to its overall dimensions in plan, while considering that each possible embodiment is similar to the others as regards its operation.

[0084] The attached Figures 1-12 show, by way of non-limiting example, a sunscreen device 1 which has a square overall dimension.

[0085] In the following description, therefore, reference will be made to the square conformation, while understanding that, as mentioned above, alternative embodiments are possible comprising a different plan conformation, for example triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, etc.

[0086] In general, the sunscreen device 1 according to the invention comprises a support frame 2, configured as a frame, which has a polygonal plan projection delimited by a number "p" of sides.

[0087] With reference to the embodiment illustrated by way of example in the attached Figures, the number of sides "p" is equal to four.

[0088] The sunscreen device 1 comprises a plurality "p" of supports 3, each of which is interposed between two consecutive sides of the support frame 2, i.e. at the vertices of the support frame (see for example Figure 1) and a central support 4, positioned centrally with respect to the support frame 2.

[0089] The supports 3, in addition to supporting the support frame 2 and other components of the sunscreen device 1, act as a connection element for connecting the sunscreen device 1 itself to a building.

[0090] The sunscreen device 1 comprises a number "p" of linear guides 5, each of which, in turn, has a first end connected to a respective support among the supports 3 and a second end connected to the central support 4. In other words, the central support 4 is connected to the support frame 2 by the linear guides 5.

[0091] The sunscreen device 1 comprises a plurality of sliders 6 each of which slidably engages a respective guide between the linear guides 5 and a plurality "p" of frames 7, operatively connected to the sliders 6, configured to be folded back on themselves.

[0092] According to a preferred embodiment, each of the sliders 6 has a through opening 6' engaged by a respective guide between the linear guides 5 (see Figure 4).

[0093] The through opening 6' can have a cross-section shaped similar to the transverse conformation of the guide that engages it to allow relative sliding between the slider 6 and the respective linear guide 5, preventing any reciprocal rotations between these components.

[0094] The frames 7 are hinged to each other defining a deformable surface of the sunscreen device 1, which can be deformed between a folded configuration, sunscreen device 1 open, and an extended configuration, sunscreen device 1 closed (primary deformation).

[0095] The deformable surface, when extended, has a plan size equal or substantially equal to the plan size delimited by the support frame 2. More precisely, the deformable surface has a plan size which is included within the overall size plan of the support frame 2 (see, for example, Figure 12a).

[0096] With reference to the exemplary embodiment illustrated in the attached figures, the deformable surface, when extended, has a substantially square plan shape.

[0097] Alternative embodiments are possible, not shown in the attached figures, wherein the support frame 2 has a different overall dimension in plan, for example rectangular, triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, etc., wherein the deformable surface has a conformation in plan similar to that of the support frame 2.

[0098] Each of the frames 7 has a bottom portion hinged to a respective slider between the sliders 6 and a top portion which cantilevers out from the sliders 6 and is disconnected from the central support 4.

[0099] The frames 7 have the same conformation which is tapered starting from the bottom portion towards the top portion.

[0100] Each of the frames 7 is cantilevered to a respective slider between the sliders 6.

[0101] It should be noted that the central support 4 is positioned below and distanced from the deformable surface and, therefore, is not directly connected to the frames 7 nor visible through the deformable surface which overlies and covers it.

[0102] As will be better described below, the sunscreen device 1 comprises members for moving the sliders 6 and therefore the frames 7 relative to the support frame 2, so as to cause the folding or stretching of the deformable surface, respectively to open or close the device sunscreen 1 same.

[0103] In this regard, the sunscreen device 1 comprises a primary transmission cable 8 which extends along the entire perimeter of the support frame 2 to which it is slidingly connected and a driving pulley 9 operatively connected to the primary transmission cable 8, to operate it in movement, and to the support frame 2 (see, for example, Figures 1 and 8).

[0104] The driving pulley 9 can be automatically operated or manually operated.

[0105] Furthermore, the sunscreen device 1 comprises a number "p" of control cables 10 each of which slidably engages a respective slider between the sliders 6, to operate it selectively along a respective guide between the linear guides 5.

[0106] Each of the control cables 10 has a first end 11 constrained to a respective support between the supports 3, a second end 12 constrained to the central support 4, an intermediate connection point 13 at which it is connected to a respective section of the primary cable transmission cable 8 which is interposed between two successive supports 3 (see, for example, the diagram illustrated in Figure 7, wherein only two of the control cables 10 are shown, one of which is positioned raised with respect to the primary transmission cable 8 in order to improve their intelligibility).

[0107] The movement of the primary transmission cable 8 determines a simultaneous actuation of all the control cables 10 and a simultaneous movement of all the sliders 6 relative to the central support 4.

[0108] Depending on the actuation direction of the primary transmission cable 8, all the sliders

[0109] 6 move forward or move away relative to the central support 4 and, consequently, the movement of the frames 7 causing the bending or stretching of the deformable surface.

[0110] In turn, the bending or stretching of the deformable surface determines, respectively, the opening or closing of the sunscreen device 1.

[0111] Each of the control cables 10 comprises a first section 14, interposed between the first end 11 and the intermediate connection point 13, a second section 15, interposed between the second end 12 and the aforementioned intermediate connection point 13.

[0112] The intermediate connection point 13, in practice, which separates the first section 14 from the second section 15.

[0113] The first section 14 and the second section 15 slidably engage, in mutually opposite positions, a same slider between the sliders 6, according to methods which will be described in greater detail below.

[0114] In particular, depending on the direction of movement of the primary transmission cable 8 relative to the support frame 2, the direction with which the intermediate connection point 13 is moved is determined and, consequently, the direction with which a traction force exerted by the cable transmission primary 8 acts on the first section 14 or on the second section 15 and, therefore, on the direction wherein the sliders 6 are driven along the respective linear guides 5.

[0115] As regards the connection between the primary transmission cable 8, the control cables 10 and the support frame 2, it can be observed that the sunscreen device 1 comprises a number "p" of pairs of pulleys, wherein each pair of pulleys comprises a first pulley 16 and a second pulley 17 both connected to a respective support between the supports 3 and configured to slidably support the primary transmission cable 8 and the control cables 10 (see, for example, Figure 8).

[0116] The sunscreen device 1 comprises a number "p" of covering elements 18 each of which is operatively connected to a support 3 and to a respective pair of pulleys in order to protect the latter. With reference to a preferred embodiment illustrated in the attached Figures, the covering elements 18 are configured as plates which have a plan size such as to be able to cover both pulleys of the same pair (see, for example, Figure 1).

[0117] The methods of connecting the pulleys to the supports 3 and the covering elements 18 are considered to be within the reach of a person skilled in the art and will not be further described.

[0118] As mentioned, each of the control cables 10 comprises a first section 14 and a second section 15 connected to each other at the connection point 13. The first section 14 and the second section 15 of the same cable among the control cables 10 respectively engage a first pulley 16 of a pair between the pairs of pulleys and a second pulley 17 of another pair between the pairs of pulleys positioned successively along the support frame 2, proceeding along the latter in an anticlockwise direction (see the diagram of Figure 7).

[0119] The intermediate connection point 13, in turn, is positioned along a section of the primary transmission cable 8 which is interposed between the first pulley 16 belonging to a first pair of pulleys and the second pulley 17 of a further pair of pulleys positioned subsequently to the first pair of pulleys along the support frame 2, proceeding along the latter in an anticlockwise direction.

[0120] Furthermore, the sunscreen device 1 comprises a number "p" of central pulleys 19 operatively connected to the central support 4, each of which slidably supports a portion of the second section 15 of a respective cable between the control cables 10.

[0121] In more detail, each pulley among the central pulleys 19 is positioned along the second section 15 of a respective cable among the control cables 10, in an interposed position between a slider between said sliders 6 and a pulley between the second pulleys 17 (see, for example, the scheme shown in Figure 7).

[0122] In other words, the central pulleys 19 act as a transmission element for each of the second sections 15 of the control cables 10.

[0123] Similarly to what has been described in relation to the first pulley 16 and the second pulley 17, the sunscreen device 1 comprises a covering element 19' for covering the central pulleys 19 (see the exploded diagram of Figure 4).

[0124] According to a preferred embodiment illustrated in the attached figures, each slider of the sliders 6 comprises a first return pulley 20 and a second return pulley 21 in opposite positions and slidingly engaged by the same cable among the control cables 10.

[0125] The first return pulley 20 and the second return pulley 21 are connected to a slider among the sliders 6 so as to be able to rotate about respective axes. In other words, the first return pulley 20 and the second return pulley 21 are rotatably connected to a respective slider among the sliders 6.

[0126] In particular, it should be noted that the first return pulley 20 is engaged by the first section 14 while the second return pulley 21 is engaged by the second section 15 of the same cable between the control cables 10.

[0127] The first return pulley 20 and the second return pulley 21 define respective sliding engagement points between a cable of the control cables 10 and a respective slider between the sliders 6.

[0128] The use of a first return pulley 20 and a second return pulley 21 allows to control the movement of the sliders 6 along the linear guides 5 by means of the control cables 10 and to limit the wear to which the transmission cables themselves are subjected.

[0129] The first return pulley 20 and the second return pulley 21 transfer to a respective slider among the sliders 6 a traction force aimed towards or away from the central support 4, to cause a similar movement of the sliders 6.

[0130] In practice, when the first section 14 is subjected to a traction force, it transmits this traction to the slider 6 through the first return pulley 20, recalling it towards a respective support between the supports 3. Conversely, when the second section 15 is subjected to a traction force transmits this traction to the slider 6, through the second return pulley 21, recalling the slider 6 towards the central support 4.

[0131] It is understood that alternative embodiments are possible, not illustrated in the attached figures, wherein each of the sliders 6 has a first through opening and a second through opening, respectively engaged by a first section 14 and a second section 15 of the same cable between the control cables 10, wherein the first through opening and the second through opening perform a function equivalent to that performed by the first return pulley 20 and the second return pulley 21 described above.

[0132] With reference to the above, it should be noted that the movement of the primary transmission cable 8, in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, relative to the support frame 2, causes a traction action in the control cables 10 connected to it each at a respective connection point 13. Each of the control cables 10 is constrained at its opposite ends 11, 12 to the support frame 2 and to the central support 4. Therefore, the traction transmitted by the primary transmission cable 8 determines the movement of each of the points of connection 13 reversed clockwise or counterclockwise and, consequently, a traction force towards the sliders 6 along the first section 14 or the second section 15 of each of the control cables 10, thus causing the movement of the sliders 6 themselves towards the central support 4 or away from the latter.

[0133] With reference to the partial diagram shown in the attached Figure 7, in the hypothesis of moving the primary transmission cable 8 in a clockwise direction, an equivalent movement is determined of each connection point 13. Each connection point 13, in turn, exerts a traction on a respective second section 15 which is transmitted to each second return pulley 21 of the sliders 6, recalling it towards the central support 4.

[0134] Similarly, by operating the primary transmission cable 8 in an anticlockwise direction, movement of each connection point 13 is determined in an anticlockwise direction, exerting a traction on each first section 14 which determines a traction action on each first return pulley 20, determining the movement of the sliders 6 away from the central support 4 (and therefore towards the supports 3).

[0135] The use of a single transmission cable 8 to which the single control cables 10 are operatively connected allows a simultaneous and synchronized actuation of the single sliders 6 along the linear guides 5, through simple and practical components.

[0136] As mentioned, the sunscreen device 1 comprises a deformable surface which in turn comprises a plurality of frames 7 hinged to each other.

[0137] Each of the frames 7 comprises a first portion 22 and a second portion 23 hinged to a slider between the sliders 6 so as to be rotatable around a central axis 24 or to respective axes parallel to this central axis 24, wherein the first portion 22 of a first frame between frames 7, in turn, is hinged to a second portion 23 of another frame between frames 7 adjacent to the first frame around a connection axis 25 (see, for example, Figures 4 and 6) .

[0138] The first portion 22 and the second portion 23 are flat or substantially flat.

[0139] The sunscreen device 1 comprises connection brackets 26 which have a first connection portion 27, configured to be hinged to a respective portion of a slider among the sliders 6 and a second connection portion 28 to which the first portion 22 and the second portion 23 are hinged.

[0140] In particular, the first connecting portion 27 has a protrusion which delimits a first through opening, not shown in detail in the attached figures, and each of the sliders 6 has a pair of protuberances 30, which protrude from a top of each of the sliders 6, between which to position the protrusion which protrudes from the first connecting portion 27. Both protuberances 30 delimit a respective through opening which can be engaged by a pin, not shown in the attached Figures, through which to hinge the first connecting portion 27 and the protuberances 30 and, therefore, the connection bracket 26 and the slider 6.

[0141] With reference to the embodiment illustrated in the attached Figures, it should be noted that the first portion 22 and the second portion 23 of each frame between the frames 6 are both hinged to a respective bracket between the connection brackets 26 at a bottom portion of the frame among the frames 7 to which they belong. In particular, the first portion 22 and the second portion 23 are hinged to a respective one of the connection brackets 26 at respective connection points, so that each of the first portion 22 and the second portion 23 can rotate with respect to the bracket around a respective rotation axis which is parallel to the central axis 24.

[0142] It is understood that according to an alternative embodiment, not shown in detail, the first portion 22 and the second portion 23 can be hinged to each other around a single axis which corresponds to the central axis 24. According to this alternative version, the first portion

[0143] 22 and the second portion 23 of each frame of the frames 6 are hinged to a respective bracket among the connection brackets 26 at a single hinged connection.

[0144] With reference to what has been previously described, each of the frames 7 is rotatably connected to a respective slider among the sliders 6 around a rotation axis 29 which is orthogonal to the central axis 24 of this frame.

[0145] Therefore, the first portion 22 and the second portion 23 of each of the frames 7 can both rotate around an axis parallel to the central axis 24 and around the rotation axis 29, to allow book folding of the deformable surface composed of the plurality of frames 7.

[0146] It should be noted that each among the frames 7, depending on the positioning of the sliders 6 along the linear guides 5, can rotate around a respective rotation axis 29 so that the top portions of the frames 7 can be raised or lowered relative to the support central 4, respectively when the sliders 6 approach or move away from the central support 4 itself.

[0147] The first portion 22 and the second portion 23 mirror each other with respect to the central axis 24.

[0148] The first portion 22 and the second portion 23 both have a frame configuration.

[0149] The sunscreen device 1 comprises first panels 31 and second panels 32 hinged to the frames 7 (see, for example, Figure 4).

[0150] The first panels 31 and second panels 32 are flat or substantially flat.

[0151] The first panels 31 and the second panels 32 define movable portions of the deformable surface of the sunscreen device 1 itself, which can be moved selectively to open or close passages through each first portion 22 or second portion 23 of the frames 7.

[0152] Each of the first panels 31 is hinged to a respective first portion 22, along an axis parallel to the central axis 24 and each of the second panels 32 is hinged to a respective second portion

[0153] 23 around an axis parallel to the central axis 24.

[0154] Each of the first panels 31 and the second panels 32 can comprise one or more solar panels 33, to allow the production of energy by exploiting any solar radiation that strikes the sunscreen device 1.

[0155] A brief description of the operation of the sunscreen device 1 is given below, with reference to its movement from a closed configuration, wherein the deformable surface is extended, towards an open configuration, wherein the deformable surface is folded back on itself (primary deformation).

[0156] With the sunscreen device 1 in the closed configuration (see Figure 9a) the sliders 6 are in a proximal position to the respective supports 3 (and therefore in a distal position relative to the central support 4). The driving pulley 9 is acted upon causing a movement of the primary transmission cable 8 with a clockwise direction, causing the movement of each connection point 13 with a clockwise direction, thus exerting a traction on each second section 15 of the control cables 10. As previously described, this traction action is transmitted to each second return pulley 21 causing an advancement of the sliders 6 along the respective linear guides 5, with a direction approaching the central support 4.

[0157] The movement of the individual sliders 6 continues as long as the driving pulley 9 continues to be operated with the same direction of rotation and can be stopped by interrupting the movement of the driving pulley 9 itself or when the sliders 6 reach an end position in proximity of the central support 4 (see Figure 9c).

[0158] The movement of the sliders 6 towards the central support 4 determines the rotation of the frames 7 with the lifting of the respective top portions away from the central support 4 (see Figures 9b and 9c).

[0159] Each first portion 22 rotates relative to the second portion 23 of each of the frames 7 causing a book folding of the deformable surface defined by the frames 7 hinged to each other.

[0160] To operate the sunscreen device 1 so as to arrange it in the closed configuration, i.e. with the deformable surface stretched out, one proceeds inversely.

[0161] In particular, the driving pulley 9 is operated in the opposite direction so as to move the primary transmission cable 8 in an anticlockwise direction. Consequently, each connection point 13 is moved in an anticlockwise direction relative to the support frame 2, exerting a traction action on each first section 14. This traction action is transmitted to each first return pulley 20, determining the advancement of each of the sliders 6 approaching a respective one of the supports 3 (and, therefore, moving away from the central support 4). Following this movement of the sliders 6, rotation of each first portion 22 and second portion 23 of the frames 7 is determined so that the individual top portions of the frames 7 are rotated towards a central portion of the support frame 2, approaching the central support 4, causing a relaxation of the deformable surface.

[0162] The movement of the sliders 6 towards the respective supports 3 continues as long as the driving pulley 9 is activated and can be stopped by interrupting the activation of the latter or following the sliders 6 reaching an end position proximal to the supports 3.

[0163] The sunscreen device 1 comprises a secondary drive system operatively connected to at least one of the first panels 31 and / or of the second panels 32 to selectively command their lifting or lowering relative to a respective first portion 22 or second portion 23 and cause a further deformation of the deformable surface (secondary deformation).

[0164] With reference to a preferred embodiment illustrated in the attached Figures 11 and 12, the actuation system comprises a plurality of scissor members 34 each of which is operatively connected to one of the first panels 31, at least one secondary transmission cable 35 operatively connected to a respective scissor member 34 and to the first portion 22 of a frame among frames 6. Furthermore, the drive system comprises transmission members configured to connect the at least one secondary transmission cable 35 with a respective transmission member control which, in turn, is configured to actuate the scissor members 34 in motion, through the at least one secondary transmission cable 35, to cause the lifting, lowering or holding in position of a respective one of the first panels 31 and the second panels 32.

[0165] As regards the connection of the scissor members 34 to the second panels 32, similar considerations apply to those previously reported in relation to the first panels 31, to which reference is made.

[0166] The at least one secondary transmission cable 35 is connected to opposite sides of a respective one between the first portion 22 (and similarly to the second portion 23) so as to assume a ring configuration comprising a first branch 36 and a second branch 37 (see for example Figure 10).

[0167] This ring configuration distributes the stress applied to at least one second transmission cable 35 to the first branch 36 and to the second branch 37 in a synchronized manner.

[0168] A traction action on the first branch 36 determines a thrust action on the second branch 37 and vice versa.

[0169] The scissor members comprise a first rod 38 and a second rod 39 operatively connected to a respective one of the first panels 31 (and similarly to the second panels 32) and to a first portion 22 (and similarly to a second portion 23) of the frames 7 through the at least one secondary transmission cable 35.

[0170] In particular, the first rod 38 is connected at its first end, via a joint, to a respective one of the first panels 31 (or similarly to a respective one of the second panels 32) and to a second end opposite a first branch 36 of the at least one secondary transmission cable 35 while the second rod 39 is connected at a first end thereof, via a joint, to a respective one among the first panels 31 (or similarly to a respective one of the second panels 32) and to a second end to a second branch 37 of the at least one secondary transmission cable 35.

[0171] It should be noted that the first end of the first rod 38 and the first end of the second rod 39 are connected to an internal surface of one of the first panels 31 (or, similarly to one of the second panels 32), mutually aligned along a direction which it is parallel or substantially parallel to a direction along which the second end of the first rod 38 and the second end 39 can be moved (see the diagram of Figure 11).

[0172] The first rod 38 and second rod 39 of each of the scissor members 34 are operable between a lifting configuration, wherein they are aligned parallel and spaced apart from each other, placing the panel among the first panels 31 and the second panels 32 to which they are connected in a raised position (see Figure 12c) or a lowered configuration wherein the first rod 38 and the second rod 39 cross each other and lie on the same plane and determine the lowering of the panel between the first panels 31 or the second panels 32 to which are connected (see Figure 12a).

[0173] The movement of the first rod 38 and of the second rod 39 takes place following the movement of the at least one secondary transmission cable 35 to which they are operatively connected.

[0174] In this regard, it should be noted that the sunscreen device 1 comprises at least one lifting cable 40, connected to the first branch 36 of the at least one secondary transmission cable 35 and at least one lowering cable 41, connected to the second branch 37 of the same transmission 35 (see the diagram of Figure 11).

[0175] A traction force acting on the lifting cable 40 determines a traction acting on the first branch 36 causing a movement of at least one secondary transmission cable 35 such as to rotate the first rod 38 and the second rod 39 in the raised position.

[0176] Similarly, a traction action acting on the lowering cable 41 determines a traction acting on the second branch 37 causing a movement of at least one secondary transmission cable 35 such as to rotate the first rod 38 and the second rod 39 in the lowered position.

[0177] The possibility of moving at least one of the panels 31 and the panels 32 allows to deform the deformable surface in a secondary way, increasing the ability of the sunscreen device 1 to orient the first panels 31 and / or the second panels 32 in an optimal way with respect to solar radiation which invests them, optimizing the yield of the solar panels 33 included in the sunscreen device 1.

[0178] Furthermore, the selective lifting of the first panels 31 and of the second panels 32 allows openings to be released to allow the passage of light through predetermined portions of the deformable surface of the sunscreen device 1.

[0179] The at least one lifting cable 40 and the at least one lowering cable 41 are operatively connected to a driving pulley 42 such that a pull on one of the at least one lifting cable 40 and the at least one lifting cable lowering 41 causes a release on the other between the lowering cable 41 and the lifting cable 40.

[0180] In the attached Figure 12 the driving pulley 42 is shown schematically.

[0181] The sunscreen device 1 comprises a plurality "p" of control rods 43 to which the at least one lifting cable 40 and the at least one lowering cable 41 are operatively connected.

[0182] With reference to the embodiment illustrated in the attached Figures, the sunscreen device 1 comprises four control rods 43 while understanding that alternative embodiments are possible wherein the support frame 2 comprises a different number "p" of sides and, consequently, of control rods 43.

[0183] The control rods 43 are positioned in pairs along respective diagonals of the support frame 2 and have their respective ends rotatably supported by respective supports 3 of the support frame 2.

[0184] It should be noted that each of the control rods 43 can rotate around a respective longitudinal axis along which it develops.

[0185] Along each of the control rods 43 are driving pulleys 42 to which the lifting cable 40 and the lowering cable 41 are connected.

[0186] In this regard, according to a preferred embodiment illustrated in the attached Figures, each of the driving pulleys 42 has circumferential seats, mutually spaced and separated, inside which the lifting cable 40 and the lowering cable 41 can be wound respectively.

[0187] The driving pulleys 42 are slidably connected along the drive rods 43 and coupled to the latter through a coupling which prevents relative rotation thereof. In this regard, it should be noted that the control rods 43 have a substantially cylindrical shape with the exception of the presence of a flat surface 44 which extends along the entire length of the control rods 43 themselves (see for example the schematic view of Figure 5).

[0188] Similarly, the d driving pulleys 42 each have a substantially circular through opening with the exception of a flat surface (which corresponds to a chord of the circumference which delimits this through opening).

[0189] In other words, the through surface of each of the driving pulleys 42 is shaped in a similar way to the cross section of each of the drive rods 43, to allow the relative sliding of each of the driving pulleys 42 with respect to the drive rods 43, preventing their relative rotation.

[0190] Each pair of control rods 43 is engaged, from opposite sides, by a pair of sliders 6 (see for example Figure 1) which are free to slide along the control rods 43.

[0191] The single pairs of control rods 43 run parallel to each other between the linear guides 5.

[0192] In more detail, the control rods 43 of the same pair extend to opposite sides of a respective guide between the linear guides 5 (see, for example, the exploded diagram of Figure 4).

[0193] The individual driving pulleys 42 are operatively connected to a respective slider between the sliders 6, to be dragged slidingly along the control rods 43 following the movement of the sliders 6.

[0194] In this regard, each of the sliders 6 has a first bottom wall 44 and a second bottom wall 45 which both depart from a bottom portion of a respective slider 6, spaced apart and parallel to each other.

[0195] In other words, the first bottom wall 44 and the second bottom wall 45 delimit a compartment, open on opposite sides and in correspondence with a bottom portion thereof, inside which a pair of driving pulleys 42 are housed and retained, each connected a respective rod between the control rods 43.

[0196] It should be noted that both the first bottom wall 45 and the second bottom wall 46 delimit through holes 47 each engaged by a respective rod between the control rods 43.

[0197] In other words, each of the sliders 6 slidably engages a respective guide between the linear guides 5 and a respective pair between the control rods 43.

[0198] Following the movement of the sliders 6 along the linear guides 5 and the control rods

[0199] 43, the first bottom wall 45 and the second bottom wall 46 drag the respective driving pulleys 42 along the control rods 43.

[0200] In more detail, when the sliders 6 advance towards the central support 4, the first bottom wall 45 of each of the sliders 6 acts in thrust against the respective driving pulleys 42 dragging them, in turn, towards the central support 4. Conversely, when the sliders 6 move away from the central support 4, the second bottom wall 46 pushes against respective driving pulleys 42, dragging them away from the central support 4 (see, for example, the exemplified diagram of Figure 5).

[0201] This configuration allows each of the first panels 31 to be selectively rotated relative to a respective first portion 22 and each of the second panels 32 relative to a respective second portion 23 independently of the position assumed by the sliders 6 along the linear guides 5.

[0202] In other words, the primary deformation and secondary deformation of the deformable surface can be controlled independently of each other.

[0203] A brief description of the secondary deformation of the deformable surface of the sunscreen device 1 is given below, with reference to the movement of the first panels 31 relative to a respective first portion 22, illustrated schematically and partially through a lifting sequence shown in the attached Figures 12.

[0204] Similar considerations apply in relation to the movement of each of the second panels 32 relative to a respective second portion 23 to which they are operatively connected.

[0205] It should be noted that in the attached Figures 12 a single control rod is shown while the other rod of the same pair of control rods 43 has been intentionally omitted, together with some components of the sunscreen device 1, to simplify the schematic representation and promote the understanding of the operation of the secondary movement system of the deformable surface.

[0206] To lift a panel of the first panels 31, one of the control rods 43 to which this panel is operatively connected is driven in rotation (see Figure 12a).

[0207] The rotation of the rod causes a traction force on the lifting cable 40 which, in turn, exerts a traction on one of the secondary transmission cables 35 to which it is connected, causing the actuation of the scissor members 34, between a position lowered and one raised (see Figure 12b).

[0208] Simultaneously, the driving pulley 42 releases a section of the lowering cable 41 equal to the section of the lifting cable 40 wound in the driving pulley 42 itself.

[0209] Continuing with the rotation of the control rod 43, the lifting of the first panel 31 is continued.

[0210] The secondary transmission cable 35 determines the simultaneous movement of the first rod 38 and of the second rod 39, rotating them until they are in a position parallel to each other (see Figure 12c).

[0211] With the first rod 38 and the second rod 39 in a parallel position, the first panel 31 is completely raised relative to the first portion 22.

[0212] During the lifting movement, the first panel 31 rotates between a lowered position, wherein it abuts against a respective first portion 22 and a fully raised position, wherein it is rotated away from the first portion 22, freeing a passage through this last. Furthermore, the first panel 31 can be locked in any intermediate position, between the completely lowered position and the completely raised position, simply by locking the control rod 43 operatively connected to it in an angular position.

[0213] The actuation of the control rods 43 can be of the manual type or of the servo-assisted type through the use of an electric motor, not shown in the attached figures, operatively connected to each of the control rods 43 to selectively rotate it.

[0214] To return the first panel 31 from the completely raised position to the completely lowered position, one proceeds in the reverse order with respect to what was previously described, by operating the control bar 43 with an opposite direction of rotation.

[0215] It should be noted that two opposing frames 7 are operatively connected to each rod of the control rods 43.

[0216] In particular, each pair of control rods 43 is associated with two opposing frames 7 and determines the actuation of the respective first panels 31 and second panels 32.

[0217] In this regard, a first rod of a pair of control rods 43 operates in lifting or lowering a first panel 31 of a first of the frames 7 and a second panel 32 of a second of the frames 7, opposite to the first, and the second rod of the same pair of control rods 43 actuates the second panel of the first of the frames 7 and the first panel 31 of the second of the frames 7.

[0218] It appears evident that the sunscreen device 1 according to the invention is capable of achieving the set objects, with reference to the possibility of moving a deformable surface of the sunscreen device 1 itself between a closed position, wherein the deformable surface is extended and such as to preventing the passage of light through the sunscreen device 1, and an open position wherein the deformable surface is folded like a book on itself and allows the passage of light through the sunscreen device 1 itself. In particular, the deformable surface can be moved through a primary movement between the extended position and the folded position.

[0219] Furthermore, the sunscreen device 1 allows a secondary movement of portions of the deformable surface, through which it is possible to open or close individual panels 31, 32 which make up the same deformable surface to orient them in an optimal way with respect to a light radiation incident on the sunscreen device 1 or simply to open at least one opening through the deformable surface itself, increasing the flexibility of use of the sunscreen device 1.

[0220] In the sunscreen device 1 the primary movement of the deformable surface between an extended position and a folded position on itself and the secondary movement of individual portions of the deformable surface can be performed independently of each other, in the context of an extremely flexible solution and practical to use.

[0221] A sunscreen system applicable to at least one facade of a building, comprising a plurality of sunscreen devices 1 previously described, forms the subject of the invention. Such a sunscreen system can comprise a plurality of sunscreen devices 1 whose support frames have the same number "p" of sides or a number of sides different from "p", without limitation.

[0222] An alternative embodiment of a sunscreen device is shown in the attached Figures 13- 23 and indicated as a whole with 100.

[0223] The sunscreen device 100 differs from the previous embodiment in relation to the way wherein the individual components of the frames which make up the deformable surface are connected to each other and to respective sliders.

[0224] Furthermore, the sunscreen device 100 differs from the previous embodiment in relation to the way wherein the sliders are operated simultaneously towards or away from a central portion of the frame of the sunscreen device 100.

[0225] The sunscreen device 100 comprises a plurality of linear guides 102, in a number equal to "p", which depart from the same centre 103, wherein each guide of the linear guides 102 has an internal end connected to the centre 103 and an external end opposite.

[0226] The linear guides 102 define a support frame for the sunscreen device 100.

[0227] With reference to the embodiment illustrated in the attached Figures 13-23, the number "p" is equal to four even if it is understood that, as previously described, alternative embodiments are possible wherein the number "p" is equal to three or five or six or greater without departing from the present invention.

[0228] The sunscreen device 100 comprises sliders 104, in a number equal to "p", each of which slidably engages a respective guide among the linear guides 2.

[0229] The sliders 104 can be configured as carriages engaged in suitable seats delimited along respective linear guides 102, by means of a rolling or grazing connection according to methods within the reach of a person skilled in the art, which will not be further described. Alternatively, the sliders 104 can be configured to externally surround a respective guide between the linear guides 102 and slide relative to it.

[0230] The sunscreen device 100 comprises a deformable surface 105 operatively connected to the linear guides 102 through the sliders 104.

[0231] The deformable surface 105, as will be better described hereinafter, is configured to be selectively deformed between an open configuration, wherein it determines the closure of the sunscreen device 100 (see for example Figures 14 and 17), hindering the passage of light, a closed configuration, wherein it determines the opening of the sunscreen device 100, allowing the passage of light (see for example Figures 15 and 19) and intermediate positions thereto (see for example Figures 13 and 18).

[0232] The sunscreen device 100 comprises an opening cable 106 which operatively connects the sliders 104 in succession to each other, so that a traction force applied to the opening cable 106, with a direction away from the sunscreen device 100 (see for example the arrow indicated in Figure 13 which departs from the opening cable 18), causes a synchronized advancement of all the sliders 104 towards the centre 103 and a book folding of the deformable surface 105, thus opening the sunscreen device 100.

[0233] The sunscreen device 100 comprises a closing cable 107 which operatively connects all the sliders 104 in succession to each other and each slider of the sliders 104 to a respective guide between the linear guides 102 along which this slider is slidingly engaged.

[0234] The closing cable 107 is connected to the sliders 104 in such a way that a traction force exerted on it, with a direction away from the sunscreen device 100 (see for example the arrow indicated in Figure 13 which departs from the closing cable 107), causes a synchronized removal of all the sliders 104 relative to the centre 103 and the opening of the deformable surface 105, closing said sunscreen device 100.

[0235] It should be noted that the opening cable 106 and the closing cable 107 are operatively connected to each other through the sliders 104.

[0236] In fact, a traction force exerted on one of the opening cable 106 or the closing cable 107, with a direction away from the sunscreen device 100, determines a return force of the other between the closing cable 107 or the opening cable 106, with the direction approaching the sunscreen device 100.

[0237] The deformable surface 105 comprises a number "p" of pairs of panels which are movably connected to each other, wherein each pair of pairs of panels comprises a first panel

[0238] 108 and a second panel 109 connected to each other via a respective hinge 110, rotatable around to a respective axis of rotation 111 (see Figure 16 wherein only one axis 111 has been illustrated intentionally).

[0239] The first panel 108 and the second panel 109 of each pair of panel pairs are triangular.

[0240] In particular, it should be noted that each first panel 108 and second panel 109, included in the sunscreen device 100, are triangular regardless of the number of linear guides 102 included in the same or, in other words, from the plan conformation of the sunscreen device 100.

[0241] Each pair of pairs of panels has a central portion 112 facing the centre 103 and a peripheral portion 113, diametrically opposite to the central portion 112 and movably connected to a respective slider among the sliders 104 included in the sunscreen device 1.

[0242] The hinge 110 included in each pair of panels is positioned at the peripheral portion 113.

[0243] The single pairs of panels are connected to each other and cooperate with each other to allow the mobility of the deformable surface 105 and, in particular, its opening or closing.

[0244] In this regard, the first panel 108 of a first pair of panels is connected to a second panel

[0245] 109 of a second pair of panels, adjacent to this first pair, via a further hinge 114.

[0246] According to a preferred embodiment, each hinge 110 and each further hinge 114 are of the 180° type, i.e. they have a mobility (or amplitude of rotation) between approximately 0° and 180°.

[0247] The further hinge 114 is configured to allow reciprocal rotation between the first panel 108 and the second panel 109 with an opening opposite to that allowed by the hinge 110.

[0248] It follows that each 110 hinge and additional 114 hinge are positioned opposite each other in such a way that their respective opening takes place in the opposite way and it is possible to determine a folding of the book-type of the deformable surface (see for example Figure 19).

[0249] The sunscreen device 100 comprises a membrane element 115 which mutually connects the first panel 108 and the second panel 109 of each pair of the pairs of panels and, furthermore, connects the individual pairs of panels to each other. The membrane element 115 has a central portion 116 which is superimposed on or in correspondence with the centre 103.

[0250] The central portion 116 is connected to each core portion 112 of the panel pairs.

[0251] The membrane element 115 then comprises first intermediate portions 117, in a number equal to "p", interposed between and connected to the first panel 108 and to the second panel 109 of the same pair of panels, and second intermediate portions 118, in a number equal to "p", interposed between and connected to the first panel 108 of a first pair of panels and to the second panel 109 of a second pair of panels adjacent to the first pair of panels.

[0252] With reference to the embodiment schematically illustrated in the attached Figure 16, the membrane element 115 has a star shape, wherein the first intermediate portions 117 and the second intermediate portions 18 depart radially from the central portion 116.

[0253] It should be understood that alternative embodiments are possible wherein the membrane element 115 is shaped like a deformable lamina, the overall dimensions of which in plan substantially correspond to that of the deformable surface 105 and comprise 117 and second intermediate portions 118 which they depart from a central portion 116. This embodiment is again schematically illustrated in the attached Figure 16 by means of a dotted line which defines the overall and alternative conformation of the membrane element 115 shaped like a lamina.

[0254] The membrane element 115 acts as a connecting element between the individual pairs of panels included in the sunscreen device 100, as well as between the first panel 108 and the second panel 109 of each pair of panels.

[0255] It should be noted that each pair of panels is connected to a respective slider among the sliders 104 via a fork element 119 (see, for example, Figure 17) interposed between this slider and the pair of panels.

[0256] In more detail, the fork element 119 has a top end connected to the hinge 110 of a pair of panels and a bottom end, opposite, hinged that can be rotated to the respective slider between the sliders 104.

[0257] Each fork element 119 comprises, at the bottom end, two arms 120 opposite each other and hinged to a respective slider between the sliders 104 and, at the top end, a connecting element 121 which mutually connects the two arms 120 and from which it extends. The connecting element 121 acts as a support to which the hinge 110 is connected.

[0258] In particular, the hinge 110 is connected to a top end of the connecting element 121. According to a preferred embodiment, each hinge 110 is connected to a respective fork element 119 through a pin or similar element, not shown in detail in the attached Figures, which engages a delimited opening at the top end of the connection element 121.

[0259] In other words, this pin extends along a direction which coincides with the rotation axis 111 of the hinge 110.

[0260] Each hinge 110 is therefore connected by rotation to a respective guide between the linear guides 102 through a respective fork element 119 around an axis orthogonal to the rotation axis 111 as well as to the forward direction defined by the guide engaged between the linear guides 102.

[0261] The sunscreen device 100 comprises a number "p" of first supports 122 and a number "p" of second supports 123, wherein each support between the first supports 122 is connected to a free end of a respective one between the opposite linear guides 102 and aligned to a respective support between the second supports 123.

[0262] Preferably, the first supports 122 and the second supports 123 extend parallel to each other and orthogonal to the guide between the linear guides 102 to which they are connected.

[0263] The expression free end in relation to each of the linearguides 102 is intended to indicate the end of the guide which is opposite to the one close to the centre 103.

[0264] The first supports 122 and the second supports 123 are configured to support and guide the closing cable 107 at each guide of the linear guides 102.

[0265] In this regard, the first supports 122 and the second supports 123 each have a respective through opening through which the closing cable 107 passes slidably, so as to operatively connect, in succession, each slider of the sliders 104 to a respective first supports 122 and second supports 123. In other words, the closing cable 107 operatively connects along each of the linear guides 102, a slider with a respective one between the first supports 122 and the second supports 123 located in correspondence with the guide engaged by this slider.

[0266] The first supports 122 and the second supports 123 act as return elements for the closing cable 107 relative to each of the sliders 104.

[0267] As mentioned, the sunscreen device 100 comprises an opening cable 106 and a closing cable 107 connected to the individual sliders 104 as better described below.

[0268] The opening cable 106 has a connection end 124 connected to a first slider among the sliders 104, preferably via a connection of the removable type, and extends along the sunscreen device 100 engaging, in succession, all the other sliders between the sliders 104, with a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, and then extends outside the sunscreen device 100 passing again through this first slider to which it is connected (see for example Figure 21).

[0269] The closing cable 107 has a respective connection end 125 connected to a respective slider between the sliders 104, preferably via a connection of the removable type, it extends through the sunscreen device 100 engaging in succession all the remaining sliders between the sliders 104, the first supports 122 and the second supports 123 and then extends outside the sunscreen device 100 passing again through the respective slider to which it is connected.

[0270] In particular, the closing cable extends passing in succession through one of the first supports 122 or the second supports 123, one of the sliders 104 interposed between these first supports 122 or second supports 123 and, therefore, the other between the second supports 123 or first support 122.

[0271] According to a preferred embodiment illustrated in the attached Figures, the sunscreen device 100 comprises a frame 126 which has a number "p" of sides and acts as a reciprocal connection and stiffening element for the linear guides 102.

[0272] The frame frame 126 has a centre of gravity which coincides or substantially coincides with the centre 103.

[0273] Furthermore, the frame frame 126 has vertices at each of which a free end of a respective one of the linear guides 102 is connected.

[0274] With reference to the embodiment illustrated in the attached Figures 12-22, the frame frame 126 has four sides and a square footprint.

[0275] According to an alternative embodiment illustrated in the attached Figure 23, the sunscreen device 100 comprises eight linear guides 102, eight sliders 104 and, consequently, the frame frame 126 has eight sides.

[0276] According to an alternative embodiment, not shown in the attached Figures, the sunscreen device 100 does not have the frame frame 126.

[0277] The sunscreen 100 when comprising the frame frame 126 has auxiliary supports 127 positioned along the sides of the frame frame 126 and configured to support and guide the closing cable 107.

[0278] Each of the auxiliary supports 127, in fact, has a through opening along which the closing cable 107 passes slidingly (see, for example, Figure 13).

[0279] In particular, each of the auxiliary supports 127 is interposed between two consecutive linear guides 102. According to a preferred embodiment, each of the auxiliary supports 127 is positioned along a respective side of the frame-like frame 126, in a position interposed between two linear guides 102 connected to that side.

[0280] Even more preferably, each support of the auxiliary supports 127 is placed centrally along a respective side of the frame frame 126.

[0281] The auxiliary supports 127 act as an intermediate guide element for the closing cable 107, so as to keep it in position, in particular during the opening or closing operation of the sunscreen device 100.

[0282] According to one aspect of the invention, the sunscreen device 100 comprises at least one opening winch 128, operatively connected to the opening cable 106 and at least one closing winch 129, connected to the closing cable 107 of the same sunscreen device 100 (see the schematic view illustrated in Figure 22).

[0283] The opening winch 128 and the closing winch 129 are manually operated and thus allow to manually control the opening or closing of the sunscreen device 100.

[0284] According to an alternative embodiment, at least one or both of the opening winch 128 and the closing winch 129 are of the automated type and comprise motor members, for example an electric drive, for selectively controlling the opening or closing of the sunscreen device 100 in an automated or partially automated way.

[0285] According to this embodiment, the sunscreen device 100 can comprise at least one position sensor, for example operatively connected to at least one slider, and at least one logic control unit operatively connected to the motor members and at least one sensor for remotely controlling the operation of the sunscreen device 100 and check the positioning of the deformable surface 105.

[0286] The opening winch 128 and the closing winch 129 can be positioned at a distance from the sunscreen device 100 to allow remote control through the opening cable 106 and the closing cable 107 respectively.

[0287] A brief description of the operation of a sunscreen device 100 according to the invention is given below.

[0288] With the sunscreen device 100 in the closed configuration, the deformable surface 105 is open and flat and the individual sliders 104 are each placed at a free end of a corresponding one of the linear guides 102 or, in other words, distal from the centre 103.

[0289] To open the sunscreen device 100 and allow the passage of light through it, the opening cable 106 is operated by pulling it in a direction away from the sunscreen device 100 (the traction force applied to the opening cable 106 is indicated schematically by an arrow in each of Figures 13-15, 20 and 21). The closing cable 107 is released and free to be recalled towards the sunscreen device 100.

[0290] The traction exerted on the opening cable 106 determines the movement of all the sliders 104, through which the opening cable 106 is engaged sliding, towards the centre 103.

[0291] Due to the advancement of the sliders 104 along the linear guides 102, towards the centre 103, a tension is created on each of the pairs of panels, causing each hinge 110 and further hinge 114 to close. Consequently, each pair of panels is caused to fold as a book (see, for example, the sequence of Figures 13 to 15).

[0292] It should be noted that each pair of panels is able to rotate relative to the slider to which it is operatively connected until the first panel 108 and the second panel 109 are oriented parallel to each other and both perpendicular or substantially perpendicularto the linear guides 102. In this configuration, the central portion 112 of each pair of panels is moved apart relative to the centre 103.

[0293] The advancement of the sliders 104 along the linear guides 102 drags the closing cable 107 recalling it inside the sunscreen device 100 (see for example Figure 15).

[0294] Continue by exerting traction on the opening cable 106 until the complete opening of the sunscreen device 100 is determined.

[0295] To close the sunscreen device 100, on the other hand, the opening cable 106 is released and a traction force is exerted on the closing cable 107, with the direction away from the sunscreen device 100.

[0296] The closing cable 107 causes a recall of the sliders 104 along the linear guides 102, with a direction away from the centre 103.

[0297] The closing cable 107 is free to slide through each of the sliders 104, as well as through the individual first supports 122 and the second supports 123 and, if present, through the auxiliary supports 127.

[0298] During the movement of the sliders 104 away from the centre 103, each first panel 108 and second panel 109 rotate so as to bring the central portion 112 of the pair of panels to which they belong closer to the centre 103.

[0299] Furthermore, during this movement, the opening cable 106 is recalled towards the sunscreen device 100. Continue by exerting traction on the closing cable 107 until the sunscreen device 100 is configured in the closed position, i.e. with the deformable surface 105 open.

[0300] With reference to the above, it is clear that the sunscreen device 100 according to the invention is capable of achieving the intended purposes.

[0301] In fact, in the sunscreen device 100, the opening or closing of the deformable surface 105 is controlled respectively by an opening cable 106 and a closing cable 107, which can be operated, if desired, manually.

[0302] Each pair of panels can be moved relative to the linear guides 102 to determine a selective deformation of the deformable surface similar to that of an umbrella surface.

[0303] The sunscreen device 100 according to the invention, contrary to the previously described solutions of the state of the art, does not include any drive which acts in thrust against the individual panels and collaborates with the cables to be tensioned, deforming them elastically.

[0304] Furthermore, the opening cable 106 and the closing cable 107 are placed under tension selectively limited to the need to determine the movement of the sliders 104 along the linear guides 102, contrary to what happens in traditional solutions wherein, instead, the cables they are subjected to high stress and must be specially configured to cause an elastic pull in position of the elements to which they are connected.

[0305] The opening cable 106 and the closing cable 107 have a structure that is considerably simpler than that of the cables of traditional solutions which, consequently, involve lower production costs, to the advantage of a reduction in the production costs of the device sunscreen 100 compared to those necessary for the construction of traditional sunscreen devices.

[0306] It should be noted that the first panel 108 and the second panel 109 can each comprise or support photovoltaic modules, to allow the sunscreen device 100 to generate electricity according to methods within the reach of a person skilled in the art, which will not be described in detail.

[0307] According to this aspect, it should be noted that if the sunscreen device 100 is manually operated and includes photovoltaic modules, it results in a zero-emission device capable of delivering all the electricity generated.

[0308] The object of the present invention is a sunscreen system applicable to at least one facade of a building, wherein this sunscreen system comprises a plurality of sunscreen devices 100 configured to be connected to the same facade, thus determining a solar facade of the positive-energy type, i.e. say with net production of energy serving the building and / or an electrical network to which it can be operationally connected.

[0309] It should be noted that such a sunscreen system comprises a plurality of sunscreen devices 100 which can all have the same number "p" of linear guides 102 or a number of linear guides 102 different from "p", depending on the conformation of the sunscreen system which you want to accomplish.

[0310] The high modularity of such a sunscreen system allows the creation of an unlimited quantity of layouts, being able to use sunscreen devices 100 of different shapes to be placed side by side, in the context of a solution that presents a high flexibility of use and design.

[0311] The components of the sunscreen device 100 can be made of sustainable materials, thanks to the particular lightness typical of tensegrity architectures and the excellent performances of tensegrity structural systems in terms of stiffness / weight and strength / weight ratios. In the foregoing the preferred embodiments have been described and variants of the present invention have been suggested, but it should be understood that those skilled in the art will be able to make modifications and changes without thereby departing from the relative scope of protection, as defined by the claims attached.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Sunscreen device (1), configured to be applied to a building, comprising:- a support frame (2) configured as a frame, which has a number "p" of sides,- a plurality "p" of supports (3), each of which is interposed between two consecutive sides of said support frame (2),- a central support (4) centrally arranged to said support frame (2),- a number "p" of linear guides (5), wherein each of said linear guides (5) has a first end connected to a respective one among said supports (3) and a second end connected to said central support (4),- a plurality of sliders (6), each of which slidably engages a respective guide among said linear guides (5),- a plurality "p" of frames (7) configured to be folded on themselves, wherein said frames (7) are mutually hinged defining a deformable surface, each of said frames (7) having a bottom portion hinged to a respective slider among said sliders (6) and a cantilevered top portion with respect to said sliders (6) and disconnected from said central support (4), wherein said central support (4) is positioned below and spaced apart from said deformable surface,- a primary transmission cable (8) which extends along the entire perimeter of said support frame (2) to which it is slidingly connected,- a driving pulley (9) operatively connected to said primary transmission cable (8), to drive it in motion, and to said support frame (2),- a number "p" of control cables (10) each of which slidably engages a respective slider between said sliders (6) and has a first end (11) constrained to a respective support between said supports (3), a second end (12) constrained to said central support (4), a connection point (13) at which it is connected to a respective section of said primary transmission cable (8), wherein a movement of said primary transmission cable (8) relative to said support frame (2) causes a simultaneous actuation of all said control cables (10) and a simultaneous movement of all said sliders (6) towards or away from moving away from said central support (4), according to the actuation direction of said primary transmission cable (8) causing, respectively, a folding of said deformable surface and an opening of said sunscreen device (1) or a distension of said deformable surface and a closure of said sunscreen device (1).

2. Sunscreen device (1) according to claim 1, wherein each of said control cables (10) comprises a first section (14) interposed between said first end (11) and said connection point(13) and a second section (15) interposed between said second end (12) and said connection point (13), wherein said first section (14) and said second section (15) slidably engage, in mutually opposite positions, the same slider between said sliders (6).

3. Sunscreen device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a number "p" of pairs of pulleys, wherein each pair of pulleys comprises a first pulley (16) and a second pulley (17) both connected to a respective support between said supports (3) and configured to slidably support said primary transmission cable (8) and said control cables (10).

4. Sunscreen device (1) according to claim 3, comprising a number "p" covering elements (18) each of which is operatively connected to a respective pair of pulleys, to cover it.

5. Sunscreen device (1) according to claim 3, wherein said first section (14) and said second section (15) of the same cable between said control cables (10) engage, respectively, a first pulley (16) of a pair between said pairs of pulleys and a second pulley (17) of a subsequent pair between said pairs of pulleys, which is positioned along said support frame (2) in an anticlockwise direction.

6. Sunscreen device (1) according to claim 5, wherein said connection point (13) is positioned along a section of said primary transmission cable (8) which, in turn, is interposed between said first pulley (16) belonging to a first pair of pulleys and between said second pulley (17) of a further pair of pulleys positioned after said first pair of pulleys along said support frame (2), in an anticlockwise direction.

7. Sunscreen device (1) according to claim 2, comprising a number "p" of central pulleys (19) connected to said central support (4), wherein each pulley of said central pulleys (19) slidably supports a portion of said second section (15) of a respective cable among said control cables (10), wherein said portion is interposed between a slider among said sliders (6) and a pulley among said second pulleys (17).

8. Sunscreen device (1) according to claim 2, wherein each slider among said sliders (6) comprises a first return pulley (20) and a second return pulley (21) opposite each other and slidingly engaged by the same cable among said control cables (10), wherein said first return pulley (20) is engaged by said first section (14) and said second return pulley (21) is engaged by said second section (15).

9. Sunscreen device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of said frames (7) comprises a first portion (22) and a second portion (23) flat and configured as a frame, mutually hinged around a central axis (24) or around respective axes parallel to said central axis,wherein said first portion (22) and said second portion (23) mirror each other with respect to said central axis (24), said first portion (22) of a first frame among said frames (7) is in turn hinged to a second portion (23) of another frame among said frames (7) adjacent to said first frame, wherein each of said frames (7) has a rotation axis (29) around which is hinged to a respective slider between said sliders (6), said rotation axis (29) of each of said frames (7) being orthogonal to a respective said central axis (24).

10. Sunscreen device (1) according to claim 9, comprising first panels (31), each of which is hinged to a respective first portion (22) around an axis parallel to said central axis (24) and second panels (32) , each of which is hinged to a respective second portion (23) about an axis parallel to said central axis (24), wherein said first panels (31) and said second panels (32) can in turn comprise one or more solar panels (33).

11. Sunscreen device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a secondary drive system operatively connected to at least one of said first panels (31) and / or of said second panels (32) to selectively control their raising or lowering with respect to each of said first portion (22) and of said second portion (23), wherein said secondary drive system comprises:- scissor members (34), each operatively connected to a respective one of said first panels (31) and said second panels (32),- at least one secondary transmission cable (35) operatively connected to a respective one of said scissor members (34) and to a respective one between said first portion (22) and said second portion (23),- transmission members configured to connect said at least one secondary transmission cable (35) with a respective drive member, wherein said drive member, in turn, is configured to drive said scissor members (34) in motion through said cable transmission secondary (35) to cause the lifting, lowering or maintenance in position of a respective one of said first panels (31) and said second panels (32).

12. Sunscreen device (1) according to claim 11, wherein said at least one secondary transmission cable (35) is connected to opposite sides of a respective one between said first portion (22) and said second portion (23) so as to assume a ring configuration comprising a first branch (36) and a second branch (37), wherein said scissor members (34) comprise a first rod (38) and a second rod (39), wherein said first rod (38) is connected at its first end, via a joint, to a respective one of said first panels (31) or said second panels (32) and at a second end to a first branch (36) of a respective one of said secondary cables transmission (35) and wherein saidsecond rod (39) is connected at a first end thereof, via a joint, to a respective between said first panels (31) or said second panels (32) and at a second end to a second branch (37) of a respective cable between said secondary transmission cables (35), wherein said first end of said first rod (38) and said first end of said second rod (39) are mutually aligned along the same direction which results parallel or substantially parallel to a direction along which said second end of said first rod (38) and said second end (39) can be moved.

13. Sunscreen device (1) according to claim 12, wherein said first rod (38) and said second rod(39) of each of said scissor members (34) are rotatable between a lifting configuration, wherein they are aligned parallel and mutually spaced and determine the lifting of one of said first panels(31) or said second panels (32) to which they are connected and a lowered configuration wherein they are mutually crossed and lying on the same plane or substantially the same plane of arrangement and determine the lowering of one of said first panels (31) or said second panels(32) to which they are connected.

14. Sunscreen device (1) according to one of claims 11-12, comprising at least one lifting cable(40) connected to said first branch (36), in such a way that traction on said lifting cable (40) determines a movement of said secondary transmission cable (35) such as to bring said first rod (38) and said second rod (39) in the lifting position and at least one lowering cable (41) connected to said second branch (37) in such a way that a traction on said lowering cable (41) causes a reverse movement of said secondary transmission cable (35) such as to bring said first rod (38) and said second rod (39) to the lowered position.

15. Sunscreen device (1) according to claim 14, wherein said at least one lifting cable (40) and said at least one lowering cable (41) are operatively connected to a driving pulley (42) in such a way that a traction on one of said at least one lifting cable (40) and said at least one lowering cable (41) causes a release of the other between said lowering cable (41) and said lifting cable (40).

16. Sunscreen system applicable to at least one facade of a building, wherein said sunscreen system comprises a plurality of sunscreen devices (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein said sunscreen devices (1) have the same number "p" of sides of said support frame (2) or a number of sides of said support frame (2) different from "p".

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