Deployable and collapsible covering structure and corresponding method

Abstract

The invention relates to a deployable and collapsible covering structure (1) which comprises a base (11), a roof frame (120), a front wall (8) and a deployment control system. The front wall (8) has a lower portion (118) hinged to the base (11) and an upper portion with runners (P128) which slide along elements of the roof frame (120). The control system allows the roof frame (120) to be moved away from the base (11) to initiate the deployment of the structure, and then the front wall (8) to continue to be straightened until it is substantially perpendicular to the roof frame (120). The invention also relates to a corresponding deployment method.

Description

Description Title of the invention: Deployable and collapsible shelter structure and corresponding method

[0001] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention generally relates to a deployable and collapsible shelter structure, for example to form a swimming pool shelter or a temporary office, or a dwelling.

[0003] PREVIOUS ART

[0004] We know of the state of the art of shelter structures that can be deployed and folded using electric motors.

[0005] However, known structures have several drawbacks. In particular, the energy consumed by the motor for deploying the structure can be significant. Some structures also require tedious interventions for the user during deployment of the structure.

[0006] The aim of the present invention is to propose a new deployable and foldable shelter structure and a new corresponding method making it possible to at least partially overcome one or more of the problems set out above.

[0007] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] To this end, the invention relates to a shelter structure, such as a temporary office or swimming pool cover, which can be deployed and folded, comprising: - a base; - a ceiling comprising a ceiling frame comprising stringers connected to each other by crosspieces; - a wall panel, called a front wall panel; - a deployment control system; characterized in that the front wall panel has a lower part hinged at the base and an upper part equipped with sliding mounted pads along parallel (between them) elements of the ceiling frame, the upper part of the front wall panel being hingedly mounted to said pads; the deployment control system is configured to: - controlling a lifting initiation system, to move the ceiling frame away from the base by a given distance, called the initiation distance, so that the front wall moves from a position substantially parallel to the ceiling frame to a position inclined relative to the ceiling frame; - controlling the movement of the front wall runners in the direction of straightening the wall so that straightening the front wall causes the ceiling frame to continue moving away from the base until the front wall extends substantially perpendicular to the ceiling frame.

[0009] The initiation distance is less than the separation distance obtained at the end of the complete deployment of the structure. The position of the front wall panel substantially parallel to the ceiling frame corresponds to the fully folded state of the structure. The inclined position of the front wall panel relative to the ceiling frame corresponds to an initiated, i.e. intermediate, deployment state of the structure.

[0010] The control of the lifting initiation system also causes, at the same time as the separation of the ceiling frame from the base, the sliding of the pads of the wall panel to allow the separation of the ceiling from the base which are connected to each other by said wall panel, so that, once the lifting initiation system is deployed, the deployment control system controls the continued movement of the pads of the front wall panel. At the end of deployment, the front wall panel extends perpendicularly, preferably vertically, to the ceiling frame, between the base and the ceiling frame, preferably along a beam of the ceiling frame. The ceiling frame is then separated from the base by a distance corresponding to the distance of complete deployment of the structure.

[0011] Such a structural design allows the structure to be deployed reliably and with a limited amount of energy to obtain a useful habitable volume.

[0012] The structure can be used to form a habitable volume for a work or residential application, garden shed, swimming pool shelter.

[0013] Preferably, as explained below, the structure comprises a so-called rear wall.

[0014] The arrangement of the or each wall panel with the ceiling frame and the base, using the pads and joints, thus forms a lifting continuation system which allows the ceiling frame to continue moving away from the base, by straightening the or each wall panel controlled by the deployment control system.

[0015] According to one embodiment, for the or each front or rear wall panel, the upper end portion of the wall panel is slidably mounted, by means of the pads, along two crosspieces of the ceiling frame, the upper end of the wall panel also being pivotally mounted about an axis, called the upper pivot axis, of the pads, orthogonal to the crosspieces to allow pivoting of the wall panel during the sliding movement of the wall panel along said crosspieces of the ceiling frame, and the lower end portion of the wall panel is also hingedly mounted at the base about an axis, called the lower pivot axis, parallel to the upper pivot axis.

[0016] The upper end portion of the wall panel can slide and pivot along corresponding crosspieces of the ceiling frame, while the lower end portion of the wall panel pivots relative to the base.

[0017] The structure may also include one or more of the following characteristics taken in any technically admissible combination.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the lifting initiation system comprises a portion, called the front lifting initiation system, located on one side of the ceiling frame, preferably along one of the beams of the ceiling frame, and another portion, called the rear lifting initiation system, located on the opposite side, preferably along the opposite beam of the ceiling frame. Advantageously, the front lifting initiation system and the rear lifting initiation system each comprise a first device priming device, and preferably a second priming device, as described below.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the lifting initiation system is carried by the ceiling frame so that, in the fully deployed state of the structure, the lifting initiation system is spaced away from the base (and the ground). In other words, the lifting initiation system is raised relative to the ground or the base. There is then no longer any contact between the base or the ground and the lifting initiation system.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the lifting initiation system comprises a first initiation device comprising two arms articulated to each other, in the shape of an X, a Y or a V, the upper ends of the X, Y or V being connected to the ceiling frame, preferably to a beam of the ceiling frame, the upper ends being movable between: a position spaced apart from each other in which the first initiation device is folded, and a position close to each other in which the first initiation device is erected (deployed) orthogonally to the ceiling frame.

[0021] Said spaced position makes it possible to hold the first device against the ceiling frame, for example to hide it or to allow the ceiling frame to be brought back as close as possible to the base in the folded position of the structure. Said close position makes it possible to raise the ceiling frame, in particular relative to the base, the lower end being moved away from the ceiling frame by a distance corresponding substantially to the length of the arm.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the lifting initiation system comprises a second initiation device comprising two arms articulated to each other, in the shape of an X, a Y or a V, the upper ends of the X, Y or V being connected to the ceiling frame, preferably to a beam of the ceiling frame; the upper ends being movable between: a position spaced apart from each other in which the second initiation device is folded, and a position close to each other in which the second initiation device is erected orthogonally to the ceiling frame (deployed); the longer arm of the first initiating device being of lesser length than the arms, or the longest arm, of the second initiating device.

[0023] The spaced position allows the second device to be held against the ceiling frame, for example, to conceal it, or allows the ceiling frame to be brought back as close as possible to the base in the folded position of the structure. The close position allows the ceiling frame to continue to be raised, in particular relative to the base, with each lower end being moved away from the ceiling frame by a distance substantially corresponding to the length of the corresponding arm.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the structure deployment control system is configured with the lifting initiation system such that, during control of the lifting initiation system in the direction of structure deployment, the first initiation device straightens, and (during straightening) pushes on the second initiation device in the direction of bringing the ends of the second initiation device closer to each other.

[0025] Such a design makes it easier to straighten or deploy the second device. The thrust is directed towards one end of the second priming device which is mounted hinged but fixed, i.e. not sliding, relative to the ceiling frame.

[0026] According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the lifting initiation system is hingedly mounted on a shoe system slidably mounted along at least one element of the ceiling frame orthogonal to the elements along which the wall panel is slidably mounted.

[0027] According to a particular aspect, at least a portion of the ends of the priming devices are carried by pads slidably mounted along an element of the frame orthogonal to the elements of the frame along which the front or rear wall(s) are slidably mounted.

[0028] According to one embodiment, one end of the first priming device is slidably connected to one end of the second device, preferably fixed to the same pad by being articulated to said pad. The other end of the first priming device is articulated to a pad separate from said pad which connects said end of the first priming device and said end of the second device.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the upper end of the second priming device furthest from the first priming device is articulated to the ceiling frame, without freedom of sliding relative to the ceiling frame, by connecting said end to a fixed part of the ceiling frame.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the structure comprises an immobilization system, which can be activated / deactivated, of the ceiling frame relative to the base, configured so that, in the activated state of the immobilization system, the control of the lifting initiation system by the deployment control system causes the entire ceiling frame and the base to be raised (relative to the ground), the structure being supported on the ground by the lower part of the lifting initiation system.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the lower part of the lifting initiation system is provided with rolling members and the structure comprises a motorization system making it possible to control the movement of the structure on the ground, by rolling of the structure resting on said rolling members.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the structure comprises two stabilizing systems arranged along two opposite sides of the ceiling frame (namely the sides at which side walls - also called gables - are capable of being deployed), which are perpendicular to the side along which said front wall extends in the upright state, and which are configured to, when the ceiling frame moves away from the base, maintain a displacement of the ceiling frame parallel to itself, and in a direction orthogonal to the plane in which said ceiling frame extends.

[0033] According to one embodiment, each stabilization system comprises a stabilization device comprising two X-shaped arms, the upper ends of the X being connected to the ceiling frame, preferably to a cross member of the ceiling frame; the upper ends being movable between: - a position separated from each other in which the stabilizing device is folded against the ceiling frame, and - a position close to each other in which the stabilizing device is erected orthogonally to the ceiling frame (deployed).

[0034] "Close position" means a position less separated than that resulting from the folded position of the stabilizing device, but for which the upper ends remain separated.

[0035] The stabilization system thus makes it possible to support the lifting of the ceiling frame, in particular relative to the base. According to a particular aspect, each arm of the stabilization system has a fixed articulated end and an articulated end mounted to slide relative to the ceiling frame or to the base or to the floor.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the structure comprises at least one sidewall and a sidewall deployment system configured to move the sidewall from a position substantially parallel to the ceiling frame in the collapsed state of the structure, to a straightened position orthogonal to the ceiling frame in the expanded state of the structure.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the sidewall deployment system comprises: - a thrust system, such as a jack or a spring, for pushing on the side wall to drive the side wall from the position substantially parallel to the ceiling frame, to the upright position, and preferably to keep the side wall pressed against a rail of the wall; - preferably, a braking system for the movement of the side wall from its position substantially parallel to the ceiling frame to its upright position. The braking system also makes it possible to return the side wall to a position substantially parallel to the ceiling frame.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the sidewall deployment system includes a roller system carried by the sidewall and a guide rail carried by the wall panel, the guide rail being configured to receive the roller system and guide the straightening of the sidewall as it moves from the position substantially parallel to the ceiling frame to the straightened position.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the upper portion of the side wall is slidably mounted along a member of the ceiling frame orthogonal to the members along which the wall panel is slidably mounted.

[0040] Advantageously, the or each wall panel is equipped with a guide rail arranged along at least one end upright of the wall panel, in order, in the erected state, to allow the insertion into said guide rail of a roller of a side wall to allow the guiding of the movement of the side wall during its deployment in the erected position.

[0041] According to one embodiment, the element of the ceiling frame along which the side wall is slidably mounted, has an opening allowing the front part of the side wall to drop for its guidance along a rail of the corresponding wall wall in which a roller of the side wall is able to engage during its straightening controlled by the side wall deployment system.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the ceiling frame comprises intermediate crosspieces, which are parallel to said crosspieces, called end crosspieces, of the ceiling frame, and along which the pads which equip the wall panel are slidably mounted.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the structure comprises a return system, such as a spring or a jack, configured to allow pushing on the upper part of the corresponding wall panel in the direction of repositioning the wall panel parallel to the ceiling frame when moving from the deployed position to the folded position of the structure.

[0044] A motor of the deployment control system can be controlled so as to allow this movement to be controlled or braked by limiting the unwinding of the cable of the control system to control the movement of the wall pushed by the recall system, when moving from the deployed position to the folded position of the structure.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the deployment control system comprises: - a cable and pulley system, which connects the pads of the wall and pads to which the lifting initiation system is connected, said pads of the lifting priming system being slidably mounted along ceiling frame member(s) which are orthogonal to the ceiling frame members along which the wall plate runners are slidably mounted; - a winch to which the cable is connected; - preferably, an electric motor system to drive the winch in the direction of winding or unwinding the cable.

[0046] The winch is capable of being rotated in one direction for winding the cable and in the opposite direction for unwinding the cable.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the base comprises at least one, preferably two, series of plates, preferably capable of being fixed to the ground, the plates of the or each series of plates being arranged parallel to an element, preferably a stringer, of the ceiling frame to be preferably arranged directly above said element, the wall preferably comprising uprights whose lower ends are articulated to said plates.

[0048] When the structure comprises a front wall panel and a rear wall panel, and the base comprises plates, the plates comprise two series of plates: a series of plates to which the lower part of the front wall panel is hinged and arranged parallel to an element, preferably a stringer, of the ceiling frame located on the front side of the structure, and a series of plates to which the lower part of the rear wall panel is hinged and arranged parallel to an element, preferably a stringer, of the frame preferably located on the rear side of the structure. The two series of plates are arranged parallel to each other. The plates of the same series are aligned and spaced apart from each other.

[0049] Advantageously, the wall panel articulated to the plates of a series comprises for each plate a metal part fixed to an upright of the wall panel connected by a hinge axis to the plate.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the structure also comprises a so-called rear wall, opposite the front wall in the erected state; the rear wall having a lower part hinged to the base (on one side of the base opposite the side of the base along which the front wall is hinged) and an upper part equipped with sliding-mounted pads (in the opposite direction of the front wall panel runners) along parallel (between) elements of the ceiling frame, the rear wall panel being hinged to said runners; the deployment control system also being configured so that, when the ceiling frame is moved away from the base by the lifting initiation system, the rear wall panel moves from a position substantially parallel to the ceiling frame to a position inclined relative to the ceiling frame (in the opposite direction to the front wall panel); the deployment control system also being configured to control the movement of the rear wall panel runners in the direction of straightening the rear wall panel so that straightening the rear wall panel causes the ceiling frame to continue moving away from the base, until the rear wall panel extends substantially perpendicular to the ceiling frame.

[0051] At the end of the deployment of the structure, the front wall panel extends perpendicularly, preferably vertically, to the ceiling frame, between the base and the ceiling frame, preferably along a beam of the ceiling frame opposite the beam along which the front wall panel extends.

[0052] Also provided is a method of deploying a shelter structure, such as a pop-up office or pool cover, in accordance with any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the method comprises the following steps: - controlling a lifting initiation system, to move the ceiling frame away from the base by a given distance, called the initiation distance, so that the front wall moves from a position substantially parallel to the ceiling frame to a position inclined relative to the ceiling frame; - control the movement of the front wall pads in the direction of straightening the wall.

[0053] According to one embodiment, in the deployed state of the structure, the load-bearing elements of the structure are located along the peripheral contour of the ceiling frame, between the ceiling frame and the base.

[0054] In particular, a design of the structure whose load-bearing or supporting elements are formed by lateral X-shaped devices and by the wall(s) front or rear walls, and which support a ceiling frame, make it possible to do without supports or posts inside the user space defined by the structure.

[0055] This means that the interior volume is freed up as soon as the structure is deployed so that the user can use the entire floor space defined by the interior of the structure.

[0056] Once deployment is complete, the structural (i.e. load-bearing) elements of the structure are located in the periphery of the structure, i.e. along the sides of the ceiling frame (or base), within the footprint of the ceiling frame (or base), in top view. Thus, once the structure is deployed, the load-bearing elements do not extend, in top view, outside the ceiling frame (or base). In particular, the wall walls move from a folded configuration parallel (horizontal) to the ceiling frame to a deployed (vertical) configuration in which each wall wall extends between the ceiling frame and the base, substantially perpendicular to said ceiling frame and to the base, and along one side of the ceiling frame and the corresponding side of the base.

[0057] The peripheral distribution of the load-bearing elements in the deployed state allows a significant interior volume to be freed up which is accessible to the user without constraint and in safety.

[0058] Before deployment, the structure is in a folded configuration in which it is contained in a minimum volume (minimum footprint) to facilitate its transport and handling. The limited thickness (height) of the structure in the folded position facilitates its transport and also allows for the visual discretion of the structure when it is not in use.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the structure can be moved on the ground, with or without a ground foundation. The structure can be placed on a concrete slab, or foundation screws or concrete slabs can be used, depending on the condition of the ground and the possibilities.

[0060] It may be provided that elements of the structure, such as the X and / or Y (or V) lifting initiation devices, or elements added to the structure, are fitted with motorized castors and / or wheels allowing move the structure in the folded state on the ground to move it to a given position on the ground.

[0061] For movement of the structure on the ground, the ceiling frame and the base are held relative to each other in the folded configuration. The ceiling frame can thus be held fixed relative to the base by a spacing locking system, so that actuation of the lifting devices causes the entire ceiling frame and base to be lifted relative to the ground, and not to separate one from the other.

[0062] The spacing locking system may comprise an electromagnetic system, such as an electromagnetic suction cup, or a mechanical locking axis system making it possible to prevent the movement of a pad of at least the front wall, relative to the ceiling crosspieces, and in particular to prevent the sliding of the pad along the crosspiece along which the pad is slidably mounted.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the ceiling frame is provided with intermediate cross members and elements for filling the inner surface of the frame, such as panels which extend between inner (intermediate) cross members or between an inner cross member and a peripheral element (external cross member or stringer of the frame), to form at least in part a rigid platform. Said platform can serve as a roof and is capable of supporting a given weight. Such a platform then makes it possible to apply a thermal insulation solution to the platform, or to serve as a support for possible service components such as heat pumps and / or to create a green roof or other easement.

[0064] The invention also relates to a corresponding deployment method.

[0065] Also provided is a deployable and collapsible shelter structure, which includes a base, a ceiling frame, a front wall panel, and a deployment control system. The front wall panel has a lower portion hinged to the base and an upper portion with runners sliding along members of the ceiling frame. The control system allows the ceiling frame to be moved away from the base to initiate deployment of the structure, and then continues to straighten the front wall panel until it is substantially perpendicular to the ceiling frame. The invention also relates to a corresponding deployment method.

[0066] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0067] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge from the following description, which is purely illustrative and non-limiting and must be read in conjunction with the appended drawings, in which:

[0068] - [Fig. 1] Figure 1 is a view in the folded state of a structure according to a first embodiment of the invention, the ceiling frame being as close as possible to the base of the structure, lateral X-shaped stabilizing devices being folded, and, for each of the front and rear sides equipped with X and Y (or V) lifting initiation devices, the X and Y initiation devices being in the folded position along the ceiling frame beam which carries them;

[0069] - [Fig. 2] Figure 2 is a view of the structure of Figure 1 during deployment of the X and Y initiating devices, with the X and Y initiating devices beginning to straighten (deployment being perpendicular to the plane of the ceiling frame) and resting on the base or on a floor on which the base rests, or on rails laid on the floor;

[0070] - [Fig. 3] Figure 3 is a view of the structure of Figure 2 during the further deployment of the X and Y initiating devices, with the Y initiating device continuing to straighten by also pushing (or continuing to push) on the X initiating device causing the X initiating device to straighten, so that the ceiling of the structure moves away from the base, the ceiling frame also being guided by the lateral stabilizing devices which deploy in parallel with the separation of the ceiling from the base, the front and rear wall panels also deploying in parallel with the straightening of the X and Y initiating devices;

[0071] - [Fig. 4] Figure 4 is a view of the structure of Figure 3, at the end of the deployment of the X and Y initiating devices, so that the ceiling is separated from the base by a given distance, less than the final separation distance in the deployed configuration, the separation of the ceiling from the base being accompanied by the deployment of the lateral support devices, and each wall of the front and rear wall continuing to unfold while straightening;

[0072] - [Fig. 5] Figure 5 is a view of the structure of Figure 4, with the V and Y initiating devices having previously reached the fully deployed position, with the continued spread of the ceiling from the base resulting from the deployment (straightening) of each front and rear wall panel;

[0073] - [Fig. 6] Figure 6 is a view of the structure of Figure 5, the deployment of each front and rear wall, which stands vertically between the base and the ceiling, being complete, with a deployment of each side wall (gable), the stabilizing devices having reached their end-of-deployment position (the upper ends of the stabilizing devices having completed moving vertically away from the lower ends of the stabilizing devices), the X and Y initiating devices being folded and located behind a cover element carried by the ceiling;

[0074] - [Fig. 7] Figure 7 is a view of the structure of Figure 1 in a configuration of holding the ceiling and the base together in the folded state, and in the extended (deployed) position of the X and Y initiating devices to allow, by pressing the X and Y initiating devices on the ground, to lift the entire base and ceiling relative to the ground and to move the structure on the ground;

[0075] - [Fig. 8] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a control system configured to control the ceiling lift initiation system relative to the base, and control the movement of a front or rear wall of the structure;

[0076] - [Fig. 9A] Figure 9A is a perspective view of the Y-initiator and the X-initiator of the ceiling lifting initiator system relative to the base, in the folded state of said devices along the beam of the ceiling frame which carries said devices, for example as in the configuration of the structure of Figure 1;

[0077] - [Fig. 9B] Figure 9B is a perspective view of the Y-initiator and the X-initiator of the lifting initiator system, in the state of beginning deployment (straightening), for example as in the configuration of the structure of Figure 2;

[0078] - [Fig. 9C] Figure 9C is a perspective view of the Y (or V) device and the X device of the ceiling lifting initiation system relative to the base, in the continued deployment (straightening) state, for example as in the structure configuration of Figure 3 or 7, so that the straightening of the X and Y initiation devices, by bearing on the ground or the base, causes the ceiling to move away from the base, or allows the entire ceiling and base to be lifted;

[0079] - [Fig. 9D] Figure 9C is a perspective view of the Y-initiator and the X-initiator of the ceiling lifting initiator system relative to the base, in the completed state of their deployment (straightening), for example as in the configuration of the structure of Figure 4, so that the ceiling has reached a given distance of separation from the base corresponding to the lifting initiation phase, and the or each wall panel has begun to tilt;

[0080] - [Fig. 10A] Figure 10A is a perspective view of a side wall, also called a gable, of the structure and a system for controlling the movement of the side wall of the structure, in the stowed configuration, also called the open position, of the side wall;

[0081] - [Fig. 10B] Figure 10B is a perspective view of the sidewall movement control system of Figure 10A, in the deployed (or erected) configuration, also called the closed position, of the sidewall;

[0082] - [Fig. 11] Figure 11 is a view in the folded state of a structure according to a second embodiment of the invention, the ceiling frame being as close as possible to the base of the structure, the base comprising floor fixing plates, the lateral X-shaped stabilizing devices being folded, and, for each of the front and rear sides equipped with X and Y (or V) lifting initiation devices, the X and Y initiation devices being in the folded position along the ceiling frame beam which carries them;

[0083] - [Fig. 12] Figure 12 is a view of the structure of Figure 11 in the process of deploying the X and Y initiating devices, with the X and Y initiating devices beginning to straighten (the deployment carried out perpendicular to the plane of the ceiling frame) and come to rest on a floor on which the base rests or on the base, or on rails laid on the floor;

[0084] - [Fig. 13] Figure 13 is a view of the structure of Figure 3 at the end of the deployment of the X and Y initiating devices, so that the ceiling is moved away from the base by a height corresponding to the erected height of the X initiating device, accompanied by the deployment of the lateral support devices, each front and rear wall being inclined;

[0085] - [Fig. 14] Figure 14 is a view of the structure of Figure 13, in the fully straightened configuration of the front and rear wall panels (the interior of the walls not being shown), the continuation of the separation of the ceiling from the base resulting from the deployment (vertical straightening) of each front and rear wall panel;

[0086] - [Fig. 15] Figure 15 is a view of the structure of Figure 14, the deployment of each front and rear wall, which stands vertically between the base and the ceiling, being complete, with a deployment of each side wall (gable), the stabilizing devices having reached their end-of-deployment position (the upper ends of the stabilizing devices having completed moving vertically away from the lower ends of the stabilizing devices), the X and Y initiating devices being folded and located behind a cover element carried by the ceiling;

[0087] - [Fig. 16] Figure 16 is a view of the structure of Figure 11 in a configuration of holding the ceiling and the base together in the folded state, and in the extended (deployed) position of the X and Y initiating devices to allow, by pressing the X and Y initiating devices on the ground, to lift the entire base and ceiling relative to the ground and to move the structure on the ground;

[0088] - [Fig. 17] Figure 17 is a perspective view from below of a plate of the base of the structure of Figure 11, in the folded configuration of the structure;

[0089] - [Fig. 18] Figure 18 is a perspective view from above of the plate of Figure 17, in the deployed configuration of the structure.

[0090] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0091] Embodiments are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Like numerals refer to like elements throughout the drawings. However, the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. The scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims.

[0092] A reference throughout the specification to "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the occurrence of the phrase "in an embodiment" at various locations throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0093] With reference to the figures, a shelter structure 1 is thus proposed, such as a temporary office or swimming pool cover, dwelling, deployable and foldable. The shelter structure 1 forms, in the deployed state, a volumetric structure which delimits a useful interior volume.

[0094] When it is mentioned that an element of the structure is horizontal, vertical, lower or upper, this refers to a state of the structure in the configuration of use (folded or deployed state), i.e. whose base is supported on horizontal ground.

[0095] The structure has, in top view, four sides, two so-called front and rear sides opposite each other, and two lateral sides opposite each other and perpendicular to the front and rear sides. At least one wall panel is hinged along an axis parallel to the direction of the front or rear side and extends in the deployed state along the front or rear side. Preferably, a wall panel is provided for each of the front and rear sides. A stabilizing device extends along each lateral side. As detailed below, in the deployed state of the structure, in the examples illustrated in the figures, the front and rear sides correspond to the longitudinal sides of the structure.

[0096] Base and ceiling

[0097] The structure comprises a base 11 and a ceiling 12 which extend parallel to each other.

[0098] The base 11 is intended to be placed, possibly fixed, on a ground. The ground may be the bottom of a recessed area so that, in the folded state of the structure, the ceiling 12 is flush with the area around the shelter structure.

[0099] The ceiling 12 comprises a ceiling frame 120 which comprises side members 121 connected to each other by cross members 122. In the description, the side members are designated as being the elements of the frame along which the wall panels 8, 8' (presented below) extend in the deployed state, and the cross members are the other elements of the frame which connect said side members to each other, and along which side walls, called gables 5, 5', can extend in the deployed state.

[0100] According to one embodiment and as illustrated in the figures, the ceiling frame 120 also comprises intermediate crosspieces 123 which extend parallel to the end crosspieces 122 and between said end crosspieces 122, connecting the side members 121 together.

[0101] According to one embodiment and as in the example illustrated in the figures, the ceiling also comprises rigid panels 124 which close the interior space delimited by the ceiling frame. The rigid panels 124 preferably extend between intermediate crosspieces 123. According to one embodiment, the assembly of intermediate crosspieces 12 and panels 124 is covered with an insulating element, such as a sandwich panel.

[0102] According to one embodiment of the invention, the ceiling 12 is rigid. It can be provided that the ceiling can support a load of at least 1000 kg, preferably up to 10,000 kg.

[0103] According to one embodiment, and as illustrated in Figures 1 to 7, the base 11 comprises a base frame 110 which comprises side members 111 connected to each other by cross members 112.

[0104] Alternatively, it can be provided that the base 11 has different solid or hollow shapes. In particular and as illustrated in Figures 11 to 18, the frame base can be replaced by plates 111 A arranged along the front or rear side to allow the articulation of the corresponding front or rear wall panel on said plates. As illustrated more particularly in Figure 17 and Figure 18, each plate can comprise a hinge system forming the articulation axis 118 to which an M8 wall panel upright is fixed. It can be provided that the plate cooperates with a part 99 fixed to the ground. The plate can cooperate with the part 99 by interlocking, in order to benefit from a ground grip to take up the forces during the deployment of the structure.

[0105] In other words, the base can be made in the form of a plurality of localized plates, directly above one or more corresponding side members of the ceiling frame, and distributed along the front and / or rear side of the structure (longitudinal side in the examples illustrated). Preferably, each plate located on a front or rear side of the structure is positioned at the level of an M8 upright of the wall which is articulated to this plate. These plates can be fixed by ground anchors. The production of the base in the form of plates makes it possible to reduce the cost of the structure and offers good force absorption when the structure is deployed.

[0106] Front and rear wall panels 8.8'

[0107] The structure comprises at least one wall panel 8 called the front panel which, in the erected state, extends along a beam 121 of the ceiling frame. The beam 121 defines with the part 111 (Figure 5) or 111A (Figure 13) of the corresponding base 11 located directly above the beam 121, a face called the front panel of the structure which is at least partially closed in the erected state of the front wall panel 8, as for example illustrated in Figure 6.

[0108] Preferably and as in the example illustrated in the figures, two wall panels 8, 8' are provided, called front wall panels 8 and rear wall panels 8'. It is possible to envisage that the structure comprises a front wall panel 8 but no rear wall panel, for example for use as a veranda.

[0109] Advantageously, at least one of the front or rear wall panels 8, 8' has an opening or an opening, such as a door and / or window.

[0110] Where reference is made hereinafter to characteristics of the front wall 8, these characteristics may also apply to the other wall 8'. Conversely, when characteristics are described for the two wall panels 8, 8', it can be provided that these characteristics only apply to one of the wall panels, in particular in the absence of the other wall panel.

[0111] The front and rear 8' wall walls 8 are hinged to the base 11 by hinges 118. The hinges 118 allow the wall walls 8, 8' to pivot about an axis parallel to the axis of a beam 121 of the ceiling frame. For each wall wall 8, 8', the hinges 118 can, as in the example illustrated in the figures, be distributed along the part 111 or 111A (called front or rear) of the base 11 which defines with the corresponding beam of the ceiling frame, the face (front or rear) of the structure which the corresponding wall wall 8, 8' at least partially closes in the erected configuration.

[0112] The front and rear 8' wall walls 8 are also hinged relative to the ceiling 12, in particular along crosspieces 123 of the ceiling, by hinges 128. The hinges 128 are carried by pads P 128 mounted to slide parallel to crosspieces of the ceiling frame. In particular, the pads P 128 are carried by crosspieces of the ceiling frame 120 and mounted to slide along said crosspieces, preferably intermediate crosspieces 123 which extend parallel to the end crosspieces 122, and between said end crosspieces 122.

[0113] According to a preferred aspect, the base 11 has on the front and / or rear side of the structure 1, i.e. along said part 111 or 111A of the base 11, reinforcing and sealing folds 119, against which the front and rear wall walls 8, 8' can come into abutment in the deployed state of said front and rear wall walls 8, 8'. As recalled above, according to an embodiment illustrated for example in Figures 10 to 16, the base 11 comprises plates 111A located at the level of the uprights (also called posts) of the front or rear wall wall, preferably with inserts fixed in the ground. The plates 111A can be associated with the folds 119 to improve the sealing when the structure is folded.

[0114] As detailed below and in connection with Figure 8, for the deployment (straightening) of the wall walls, the structure includes a system of SC28 control system configured to move the corresponding P128 pads of the wall 8. Two P128 pads are shown in Figure 8, but the SC28 control system is adaptable for a larger number of pads. According to one embodiment and as detailed below, the SC28 control system comprises a set of pulleys comprising pulleys 828 carried by the P128 pads and pulleys 824 carried by the ceiling frame 120, and a cable 290 connecting the pulleys. The SC28 control system also comprises a T28 winch, preferably powered by a M28 motor, to which the cable 290 is attached to enable the cable 290 to be wound and unwound and thus the P128 pads to be moved along the crosspieces 123 of the ceiling frame 120.

[0115] The M28 motor can be a motor powered by an electric power source or possibly hydraulic or pneumatic.

[0116] It is also possible to provide manual operation of the T28 winch with a crank system to operate the T28 winch which can be used in the absence of a motor or when the motor is present but has a malfunction.

[0117] According to one embodiment and as detailed below, the control system SC28 is also configured to move pads P21 and P2122 slidably mounted along a spar 121 of the ceiling frame 120, and to which the deployment initiation devices 21, 22 presented below are connected.

[0118] The control system SC28 comprises for this purpose pulleys (not shown) which are carried by at least a part of said pads P21, P2122 and through which the cable 290 passes to allow, with the aid of the winch T28, to control the movement of said pads P21, P2122 along the corresponding spar 121 of the ceiling frame 120. Additional return pulleys can be provided depending on the path of the cable 290.

[0119] In the illustrated examples, each frame is rectangular in shape. When the frame is a square, it is understood that the side members and cross members are frame members of the same length. It is also understood that the description made here for an example where the 8.8' wall panels extend, at the erected state, along elements of the frame 12 which are longer than the elements of the frame 12 along which the side walls 5, 5' extend, presented below, also applies to a configuration where the wall walls 8, 8' would extend, in the erected state, along elements of the frame 12 which are smaller (i.e. shorter) than the elements of the frame along which the side walls 5, 5' would extend.

[0120] As recalled above, the opposite sides of the structure along which the front 8 and rear 8' wall walls extend respectively in the erected state are called the front side and rear side respectively. The other opposite sides of the structure are called the lateral sides and are the sides at which the stabilization devices 3 presented below extend. In the example illustrated in the figures and as explained below, the stabilization devices 3 comprise, for each lateral side of the structure, two articulated X-shaped stabilization devices as detailed below. It can also be provided that for each lateral side, the stabilization device 3 comprises a single articulated X-shaped stabilization device.

[0121] The deployment support devices 3 form a stabilization system which makes it possible, during deployment and folding of the structure 1, to maintain parallelism between the base 11 and the ceiling 12 relative to each other, and to maintain the ceiling 12 vertically relative to the base 11, i.e. to avoid an inclination and / or an offset in the horizontal plane (when the structure 1 is on horizontal ground) of the ceiling 12 relative to the base 11.

[0122] The wall panel 8 is arranged with the base 11 and the ceiling 12 so as, in the deployed (erect) position, to extend perpendicular to the plane (average plane) in which the base 11 extends and perpendicular to the plane in which the ceiling frame 120 extends. The wall panel 8 extends in the folded position in a (substantially) parallel position relative to the plane (average plane) in which the base 11 extends and to the plane (average plane) in which the ceiling frame 120 extends.

[0123] In other words, the wall panel 8 has, in the folded position, an internal face located opposite the base 11 (which in the deployed position is oriented towards the interior of the structure 1), and an opposite external face opposite the frame of ceiling 120 (which in the deployed position is oriented towards the outside of the structure 1). In the deployed position, the internal face is oriented towards the inside of the structure 1, and the external face is oriented towards the outside of the structure 1.

[0124] Deployment system

[0125] A deployment system is arranged to allow the deployment of the structure and in particular the lifting of the ceiling 12 relative to the base 11. The deployment system also conversely allows the structure to be folded to bring it into a more compact configuration, in particular by bringing the ceiling 12 closer to the base 11.

[0126] The deployment system includes an S2 lift initiation system and an S8 lift continuation system shown below.

[0127] The machine also includes an SC28 control system for the deployment system, an example of which is illustrated in Figure 8. The control system (detailed below) may be motorized and / or manual. In particular, in the event of engine failure, provision may be made for the control system to be activated manually, for example using a crank associated with a winch.

[0128] Lifting priming system

[0129] In the folded state of the structure, the base 11 and the ceiling 12 are in a position of lesser spacing or are in contact, compared with the spacing of the base 11 and the ceiling 12 obtained at the end of deployment using the lifting system.

[0130] The lifting system preferably comprises, for each of two front and rear sides of the shelter structure 1, a lifting initiation system S2 configured to allow the ceiling 12 to be moved away from the base 11 by a given distance, which remains less than the final separation distance between the ceiling frame and the base obtained at the end of deployment of the structure.

[0131] As detailed below, the initiation of lifting (or separation) of the ceiling frame 120 relative to the base 11 makes it possible to cause the front wall 8 and / or rear wall 8' to begin pivoting, and thus to facilitate the continuation of their straightening by the system S8 for controlling the movement of the pads P128 to which the corresponding wall(s) are connected.

[0132] The lifting initiation system S2 comprises for each of two opposite sides of the structure, called front sides and rear side, a Y (or V) device 21, and an X device 22. It should be noted that the example illustrated in the figures is made for a Y, but that a V can be provided. The upper part of a Y can be considered as forming a V, and a V device can comprise a branch of the V which extends beyond the tip of the V thus forming a Y device. Thus the description given below for a Y can apply to a V. A Y device is however preferred because it allows, compared to a V device, to reduce the energy to be supplied to initiate the separation of the ceiling from the base.

[0133] The Y (or V) structure comprises two arms hinged together at their articulation (i.e. at the tip of the V), and the X structure comprises two arms hinged together at the intersection of the two arms.

[0134] Y-shaped lifting priming device

[0135] According to one embodiment and as for example illustrated more particularly in Figure 9B, the Y-shaped lifting initiation device 21 comprises two arms 211, 212 in the general shape of a V. The two arms 211, 212 are articulated together, and each have an end 211A, 212A called the upper end linked to a side member 121 of the ceiling frame 120 by means of a pad P21, P2122 mounted to slide along said side member 121.

[0136] The upper end 211A, 212A of each arm 211, 212 is thus slidably mounted along the corresponding side member (frame element) of the ceiling frame 120.

[0137] The control system SC28 makes it possible to slide the pads P21, P2122 to bring the ends 211A, 212A closer to each other and thus tighten the arms of the Y so that the foot of the Y, comes to bear by its lower end 211 B against the base 11, for example an element of the base frame 110 (in the case where it is not planned to be able to move the entire structure on the ground in the folded state of the ceiling frame and the base frame), or against a floor element preferably located outside the base 11, preferably a floor on which the base 11 rests.

[0138] The continued tightening of the arms of the Y causes the arms 21 1 , 212 to straighten and thus the ceiling frame 120 to move away from the base frame 11 . In parallel with the lifting initiation device 21 pressing on a floor or on the base 11 , which causes 12 to move away from 11 , the or each X-shaped device of the stabilization system 3 deploys (straightens) due to the gap between the ceiling 11 and the base 12 , just as the wall 8 continues to straighten by pivoting upwards thanks to their articulation at the base 11 and by sliding along crosspieces of the ceiling frame 120 towards the corresponding beam 121 of the corresponding ceiling frame 120.

[0139] The spacing between the base 11 and the ceiling 12 obtained by the lifting initiation device 21 can thus correspond substantially to the height of the Y once the arms of the Y are straightened against each other. As detailed below, the spacing continues to reach a spacing distance corresponding to the height of the straightened X and then continues to reach a spacing distance corresponding to the height of the straightened wall 8.

[0140] According to one embodiment and as for example illustrated in Figure 8, the pad P21 carries a pulley (not shown) connected to a cable 290, and slidably mounted along the spar 121. The upper end 211A of the arm of the Y, located on the side opposite the X-shaped device, is articulated to said pad P21. The upper end 212A of the arm of the Y located on the side of the X-shaped device is articulated to the pad P2122 which also preferably carries a pulley (not shown) connected to the cable 290. The lower end 211B of the Y is formed by the end of the foot of the Y.

[0141] X-lift priming device

[0142] According to one embodiment and as for example illustrated more particularly in Figure 8 and Figure 9B, the lifting initiation device 22 comprises two arms 221, 222 crossed in the general shape of an X. The two arms 221, 222 are articulated together, and each have an end 221A, 222A called the upper end linked to the side member 121 of the ceiling frame 120 by means of a pad P2122 mounted to slide along said side member 121 and a part L22 fixed relative to the side member.

[0143] In particular, the lower ends 221 B, 222 B of the X are free or possibly guided by a rail fixed to the ground or to the base, which extends parallel to the side members 121, when they are resting on the ground or the base.

[0144] The lower ends 221 B, 222B of the X remain free to move up and down relative to the base. Thus, once the lifting has been initiated and the ceiling 12 continues to move away from the base 11 by continuing to move the pads P 128 of the front and / or rear wall(s) along the ceiling crosspieces, the lower ends 221 B, 222B of the X move away from the floor or the base, the ceiling 12 driving the initiating devices 21, 22 away from the base as it rises.

[0145] Preferably and as illustrated in the Figures, the lower ends 221 B, 222 B of the X and the lower end 211 B of the Y are provided with casters to facilitate the deployment of the Y and the X when resting on the ground or on the base.

[0146] The upper end 221A of the arm 221 of the X is thus slidably mounted along the corresponding longitudinal member (frame element) of the ceiling frame 120. The same applies to the upper end 211A of the arm 211 of the Y and to the upper end 212A of the arm 212 of the Y.

[0147] The control system SC28 makes it possible to slide the shoe P2122 (also pushed by the shoe P21 of the priming device 21) to bring the ends 221A, 222A of the X closer to each other and thus tighten the arms of the X to come to bear by the lower ends 221 B, 222B against the base 11, for example an element of the base frame 110 (in the case where it is not planned to be able to move the entire structure on the ground in the folded state of the ceiling frame and the base frame), or against a ground element preferably located outside the base 11, preferably a ground on which the base 11 rests.

[0148] The continued tightening of the arms of the X causes the arms 221, 222 to straighten and thus the separation or continued separation (potentially initiated by the initiating device 21 or in parallel with the deployment of the initiating device 21) of the ceiling frame 120 relative to the base 11. In parallel with the support on a floor or on the base 11, of the lifting initiating device 22 which causes the separation of the ceiling frame 120 relative to the At the base 11, the or each X-shaped device of the stabilization system 3 deploys (straightens) due to the gap between the ceiling 12 and the base 11, just as the wall panel 8 continues to straighten by pivoting upwards thanks to their articulation 118 to the base 11 and their articulation sliding mobility relative to the ceiling by means of the pads P128 and the articulation axes 128 which allow the corresponding front or rear wall panel to slide along crosspieces of the ceiling frame 120 towards the corresponding beam 121 of the corresponding ceiling frame 120.

[0149] Each arm 221, 222 of the X has a length greater than the height of the straightened Y. Each arm 221, 222 of the X has a length greater than the length of the arm 211 of the longest Y, i.e. the length between the ends 211 A and 211 B.

[0150] In the upright state of the X and Y, the point of articulation of the arms of the X with each other is higher than the point of articulation of the arms of the Y with each other.

[0151] The Y (or V) initiating device makes it possible to initiate the separation between the ceiling 12 and the base 11 with reduced effort, and to help continue the initiation of deployment by pushing on the X with the Y to continue to straighten the X with reduced effort. The initiating system made using a Y and X device itself makes it possible to facilitate the continuation of the deployment of the structure thanks to the inclination of the front and / or rear wall wall which results from the separation obtained by the initiating system. The effort required to continue to straighten the wall walls, by moving the pads P128 using the control system SC28 is in fact reduced due to the angle of inclination of the wall wall 8.8' already reached.

[0152] The distance between the base 11 and the ceiling 12 obtained by the motorized lifting initiation system S2 can thus correspond substantially to the height of the X once the arms of the X are straightened against each other.

[0153] Priming system pads

[0154] When activating the control system SC28, the pad 21 connected to the end 211A of the branch 211 of the Y of the device 21 which is distant from the device 22 in X, is moved towards the pad P2122 connected to the end 212A of the other branch 212 of the Y so that the Y straightens and the foot 211B of the Y presses on the base or the ground. Preferably, one end 221A of the X of the device 22 is also connected to said pad P2122. Alternatively, it may be provided that said end of the X is connected to a pad, separate from the pad P2122, against which the pad P2122 is able to come to bear during its movement in the direction of initiating lifting.

[0155] The movement of the pads P21, P2122 causes the Y to straighten. The support of the Y on the ground or base at the same time as the Y straightens causes a vertical separation of the ceiling frame 120 relative to the base 11. The pad P2122 of the X located near the Y is moved towards the other end 222A of the X which is articulated to a fixed element L22 of the ceiling frame. The end 222A of the X of the device 22 is fixed along the side member 121. The term "fixed" is used in the sense that it does not move along the side member, but of course the "fixed" end of the X remains articulated to the side member to allow the arms of the X to pivot during the movement of the pads P2122 and P21, which allows the device to be straightened in X, resting on the base or the ground.

[0156] Thus the X of the device 22 straightens and by pressing on the ground or the base causes the ceiling 12 to move vertically away from the base 11, up to a separation height corresponding to the height of the straightened X.

[0157] The combination of the Y (or V) device 21 with the X device 22 makes it possible to limit the energy required to initiate the deployment of the structure. In fact, the Y (or V) device requires less horizontal force for its straightening during the stage of initiating the deployment of the structure than the X device requires for its straightening due to the greater angle of attack of the Y (or V) compared to the X.

[0158] According to one embodiment and as illustrated in the examples, the structure comprises for each beam of the ceiling frame at least two initiating devices in X and Y (or X and V) arranged at a distance from each other along the beam.

[0159] The deployment initiation system S2 (also called the lifting initiation system) makes it possible to initiate the separation of the ceiling frame 120 from the base frame 11 by a given distance. Conversely, the lifting initiation system S2 also makes it possible to bring the ceiling frame 120 closer to the base frame 11. The initiation system S2 also makes it possible when the ceiling frame is locked relative to the base, to lift the entire base and ceiling to move the structure onto the floor.

[0160] According to one embodiment, it may be provided that the structure comprises for each caster guide rail, a drive wheel mounted outside the rail, or according to another embodiment it may be provided to integrate a drive wheel at one end of the V-shaped device 21 and / or the X-shaped device 22.

[0161] It is possible to provide that in the embodiment according to which a motor is integrated into a wheel of the device 21, and / or of the device 22, the structure may or may not include guide rails for these wheels.

[0162] Initiation of straightening the front and / or rear wall

[0163] As in the example illustrated in the figures, the separation of the ceiling frame 120 from the base 11 generated by the actuation of the Y-shaped device 21 and the X-shaped device 22 causes the wall 8, 8' to begin to straighten. In other words, the wall 8, 8' begins to straighten, by pivoting around the joints 118, 128 at the same time as the straightening of the Y and the X occurs at the initiation system S2 by bearing on the ground or on the base. In particular, the separation of the ceiling 12 from the base 11 which results from the actuation of the lifting initiation system 2 is thus accompanied by the start of straightening of the wall 8, 8'.

[0164] Once the X and Y (or V) of the lifting initiation system S2 are completely straightened, the continued actuation of the control system SC28 allows the sliding movement of the pads P128 of the corresponding wall panels to continue and thus the straightening of the wall panels 8 and therefore the spacing of the ceiling 12 relative to the base 11 to the end of the vertical straightening of the wall panel. The ceiling has then reached the final spacing distance relative to the base 11.

[0165] By allowing the lifting of the ceiling 12 to be initiated using the lifting initiation system 2, it is possible to obtain an angle of inclination of the wall panel which is favorable to the straightening of the wall panel and therefore to the continuation of the lifting of the ceiling with reduced effort.

[0166] The entire wall panel, the associated pads and the system for controlling the movement of these pads can thus be considered as forming a lifting finalization system S8 which makes it possible to finalize the spacing of the ceiling 12 relative to the base 11, by straightening the front and rear wall walls 8, 8'. As a reminder, the spacing of the ceiling 12 relative to the base 11 begins with the support of the priming system S2 on the ground or the base, and continues with the lifting finalization system 4 by straightening the wall walls 8.

[0167] Stabilization system

[0168] As recalled above, the structure comprises a stabilization system which makes it possible to maintain parallelism and plumb between the ceiling frame and the base during deployment (and folding) of the structure. The stabilization system comprises a stabilization device 3 for each lateral side of the structure. The description given below for a stabilization device 3 for one lateral side of the structure also applies to the stabilization device provided for the opposite lateral side of the structure.

[0169] The upper ends of the stabilizing device 3 are connected to the ceiling 12, preferably to an end crosspiece 122 of the ceiling frame 120. According to one embodiment, the upper ends of the or each stabilizing device 3 comprise an upper end articulated to the ceiling 12 but which remains fixed along the crosspiece 122 of the ceiling frame 120, and an upper end movable along the crosspiece 122 of the ceiling frame 120.

[0170] According to one embodiment of the invention, the lower ends of the stabilizing device 3 comprise a lower end articulated to the base 11, which remains fixed along the corresponding side of the base, and another lower end movable on the base (in particular along a part of the base forming a crosspiece of a base frame) or on the ground.

[0171] According to one embodiment of the invention and as in the example illustrated in the Figures, the stabilization system 3 comprises, for each lateral side of the structure, at least one X-shaped device comprising two arms 31, 32 articulated to each other.

[0172] The arm 31 has one end fixed by being articulated 312 to the ceiling frame 120, and an opposite free end 311, to allow it to move on the base 11 to accompany the straightening or folding of the X. may provide that the movement of the end 311 is guided by a rail on the base.

[0173] The other arm 32 has an end 321 articulated to the base 11, and an opposite end 322 mounted freely sliding in a rail along the corresponding crosspiece 122 of the ceiling frame 120.

[0174] It can be provided that the X-shaped device of the stabilization device 3 comprises a single X-shaped device, or two Xs arranged symmetrically with respect to the vertical median longitudinal plane of the structure.

[0175] Masking device

[0176] According to one embodiment, at least one, preferably each, spar 121 of the ceiling frame 120 is equipped with a masking device 129 which extends on the outer side of the spar 121 so that, in the folded state (i.e. flattened or collapsed) of the lifting initiation system S2 along the corresponding spar 121, the initiation system S2 extends mainly between the spar 121 and the masking device 129, i.e. behind the masking device 129 for a user located outside the structure, and therefore in a manner not visible to a user.

[0177] Thus, in the deployed position of the structure 1, and as in the example illustrated in the figures, the priming system S2 can be folded up by extending along the corresponding spar 121 of the ceiling frame 120 to be stored behind the corresponding masking device 129 and not be visible to a user.

[0178] The masking device 129 can be produced on the periphery of the ceiling 12 so that, in the folded state of the structure, the stabilization device 3 and the lifting initiation system S2 are masked (i.e. not visible to a user). When the structure is deployed, the masking device makes it possible to mask the lifting initiation system S2 and when the structure is folded, the masking device can make it possible to protect the mechanics from humidity but.

[0179] Mobility of the front and rear walls

[0180] As recalled above, the wall panel 8 is mounted articulated to the base 11, preferably to a longitudinal member 111 of the base frame 110 and sliding along crosspieces 123 of the ceiling frame 120, being articulated to the sliding pads P28 to be able to pivot relative to said crosspieces 123, at the same time as said wall panel 8 is moved to slide along the crosspieces 122.

[0181] For this purpose and as for example partially illustrated in Figure 8, the structure 1 comprises for the wall panel 8, a control system S8 configured to slidably move the pads P128 which connect the wall panel 8 to the ceiling 12. Each pad P128 is slidably mounted on a crosspiece 123, preferably an intermediate crosspiece, of the ceiling frame.

[0182] For each pad P128, the control system S8 comprises, carried by said pad P128, a pulley 828 and a pivot axis 128 to which an upper end of the wall panel 8 is articulated. The term "upper" is used in reference to the vertically deployed state of the wall panel 8. Another pulley 824 is located at the end of the crosspiece 123 along which the pad P128 is slidably mounted, on the side of the beam 121 of the ceiling along which the wall panel 8 extends in the erected position. A cable 290 (or rope) extends from the pulley 828 carried by the pad P128 to the pulley 824 which is positioned in a fixed manner relative to the crosspiece 123 and relative to the beam 121. The pulley can rotate on itself but is not movable along an element of the ceiling frame. Pulley 824 is used to return cable 290 coming from winch T28 on which it is wound, to pulley 828 carried by shoe P128.After passing through the pulley 828, the cable 290 is returned to a pulley (not shown) which is carried by the ceiling frame 120, preferably in the room L22, in particular by the side member 121 (for example a connecting piece L22 between the side member 121 and the intermediate cross member 123 along which the pad P128 can slide).

[0183] The cable 290 is returned from said pulley to a system for moving the second skate P128 which comprises, as for the first skate P128, a set of pulleys comprising a pulley 828A carried by the second skate P128, and a pulley (not shown) carried by a part L23 secured to the ceiling frame 120. The cable 290 thus passes through the pulleys to be attached to a part, preferably part L23, integral with the ceiling frame 120.

[0184] Advantageously, the cable 290 also passes through one or more pulleys (not shown) carried by pads P2122, P21, to which a part of the X-initiating device 22 and the Y (or V) initiating device 21 are articulated.

[0185] The winch T28, preferably motorized by an M28 motor, to which the cable 290 is attached, then allows the winding and unwinding of the cable 290 and thus the movement of the pads P21, P2122 of the priming devices 21, 22, as well as the pads P128 of the wall 8 along the crosspieces of the ceiling frame.

[0186] The SC28 control system described and illustrated for example in Figure 8 for the wall 8 and the Y 21 and V 22 devices, also applies to a control system for the wall 8', preferably arranged in symmetry with said SC28 control system, and the corresponding X and Y (or V) initiating devices.

[0187] Advantageously and as for example illustrated in Figure 8, the structure comprises, for each front and / or rear side of the structure 1, a return spring system R8 which is compressed by the corresponding wall panel 8 in the upright position, so that the spring R8 allows, during the folding phase of the structure, to initiate the movement of the wall panel 8 in the folding direction, i.e. to initiate the movement of the pads P128 of the wall panel away from the spar 121 along which the wall panel 8 extends in the upright state.

[0188] According to one embodiment, a sensor system makes it possible to detect different positions of the Y (or V) and the X of the priming devices 21, 22, as well as the position of the wall walls, to facilitate automation of deployment / folding and / or movement on the ground.

[0189] Side wall

[0190] The structure further comprises at least on one lateral side, preferably on each lateral side, a 5.5' side wall, called a gable, configured to be able to move from a stored position substantially parallel to the frame ceiling 120 to an upright position (parallel to the stabilizing devices 3) which at least partially closes the corresponding lateral side (or corresponding lateral face) of the structure.

[0191] The description given below for the side wall (gable) 5 also applies to the opposite side wall 5'.

[0192] For this purpose, the structure comprises a control system 500 for controlling the passage of the side wall 5 from the open position to the closed position and vice versa.

[0193] An exemplary control system 500 is described in connection with Figures 10A and 10B.

[0194] According to one embodiment of the invention and as for example illustrated in Figure 10A, the movement control mechanism 500 comprises, for at least one, preferably for each lateral side of the side wall, a motor 510, a winch 515, a pulley 528 and a cable 529 passing through the pulley 528 and attached to a lower end of the side wall 5. It can be provided that a part of the control system, for example the motor 510 and the winch 515, is common for both sides of the side wall 5.

[0195] The side wall 5 can extend and slide along a guide rail 125 parallel to the beam 121 of the ceiling frame. One end of the cable 529 is connected to the winding / unwinding winch 515 operable by the motor 510 and the other end of the cable 529 is connected to a lower end 502 of the side wall 5 (the end 502 is considered as the "lower end" in the vertically extended state of the side wall 5). Said lower end 502 is preferably provided with a rolling member, such as a roller, as is the opposite so-called upper end 501 of the side wall.

[0196] The guide rail 125 makes it possible to guide the movement of the wall panel and to allow, when the lower end 502 reaches the end of its travel, at an opening 1255, of the guide rail 125 (see Figure 10A), the tilting of the wall panel for its vertical straightening (Figure 10B). Indeed, at the end of the travel of the horizontal guide rail, the lower end 502 escapes from the guide rail to be guided in a corresponding vertical rail (not shown) of the corresponding wall panel 8, 8'.

[0197] The side wall 5 is brought into the deployed (erect) position by a thrust spring 590 (for example produced using a jack) one end of which is connected to a part 129 which comes to bear against a part of the wall, preferably a roller located at the lower end 502. The motor 510 makes it possible to prevent the sudden deployment of the side wall 5 by controlling the unwinding of the cable 529 of the winch 515. The thrust spring 590 acts as an imbalance and thrust spring configured to maintain the sealing of the side wall 5, in a vertical configuration against end-of-travel stops located at the level of the uprights formed by the lateral sides of the front and rear wall walls 8, 8'.

[0198] The motor 510 also makes it possible to raise the side wall 5 by winding the cable 529 of the winch 515.

[0199] Thus, for the transition from the stowed position to the deployed position of the side wall 5, the lower end 502 of the side wall 5 slides or rolls on the horizontal rail 125, then falls into the vertical rail (not shown) of the corresponding wall 8, 8', while the upper end 501 continues to slide or roll on the horizontal rail 125 until it reaches the end of its travel in or opposite the vertical rail of the corresponding wall 8, 8'.

[0200] Deployment process

[0201] An example of a deployment process is shown below.

[0202] Initially, the structure is in the folded position (example in Figure 1 and Figure 9A). Advantageously, the initiating system S2 is masked by the masking device 129. According to a particular aspect, the initiating system S2 extends between a beam of the ceiling and said masking device 129. Said masking device 129 may be in the form of an elongated element with an L-shaped section which extends cantilevered from the beam and possibly also along a cross member of the ceiling frame to form a peripheral masking contour also making it possible to at least partially mask the stabilization device 3 in the folded state.

[0203] As shown in Figure 2 and Figure 9B, the priming system S2 is commanded in the direction of deployment.

[0204] As recalled above, the upper end 222A of the arm of the X of the priming device 22, located on the side of the X opposite the priming device 21 in Y, is articulated to the spar 121, preferably by means of the part L22 as illustrated in Figure 8, without freedom of sliding relative to the spar 121. In other words, said upper end 222A of the arm of the X of the priming device 22 is fixed in translation while being articulated to allow the deployment / folding of the X of the priming device 22.

[0205] The actuation of the control system SC28 which makes it possible to wind the cable 290 around the winch T28 causes the displacement of the pads P21, P2122 (example in Figure 8), to which the Y-shaped device 21 and the X-shaped priming device 22 are connected. The pads P21, P2122 are thus moved towards the fixed end 222A of the X, i.e. in the direction of a straightening of the Y and the X. In particular, the pad P21, to which the end 211A of the arm 211 of the Y is connected, approaches the pad P2122 to which the end 212A of the other arm 212 of the Y and the end 221A of the arm 221 of the X are connected. The assembly of the two pads P21, P2122 approaches the fixed end 222A of the arm 222 of the device 22 priming in X, which causes the Y and the X to straighten. When the Y and the X touch the base or the ground, the continuation of their straightening results in a separation of the ceiling frame 120 relative to the base 11 (in the case where the separation mobility has not been blocked of course).

[0206] Once the priming system S2 is fully erected, the continued operation of the control system SC28 causes the runners P128 of the wall panel 8 to continue sliding along the corresponding cross members of the ceiling frame 120, while the wall panel 8 hinged to the base pivots relative to the base and the ceiling, so that the wall panel 8 straightens and extends parallel to the beams of the ceiling frame and orthogonally to the ceiling frame.

[0207] It can be noted that during the priming phase where the control system SC28 causes the Y and X devices of the priming system S2 to straighten to begin the separation of the ceiling 12 relative to the base 11, the pads P128 slide to accompany the separation movement so that the wall 8 begins to straighten. When the priming devices 21, 22 are completely straightened and can no longer participate in a continuation of the separation of the ceiling 12 in relation to the base 11, it is the movement of the pads P128 controlled using the winch T28 which makes it possible to cause the continuation of the separation of the ceiling 12 in relation to the base 11, by straightening the wall 8.

[0208] Preferably, each front and rear side of the structure 1 is provided with a priming system S2, a lifting continuation system S8 and a corresponding control system, such as the system SC28. It can be provided that a part of the control system SC28 is common for the front side and the rear side of the structure 1.

[0209] Preferably, said pulleys of the control system SC28, in particular 828, 824 are connected to each other by the same cable or rope 290. The winch 28 then makes it possible to wind / unwind the cable connecting said pulleys and thus to be able to move the corresponding pads of the wall 8 and the lifting priming devices 21, 22.

[0210] The description given above for the straightening of the wall 8 can also be applied to the straightening of the wall 8'.

[0211] The Y-shaped priming device 21 helps to deploy the X of the priming device 22 by pushing longitudinally (i.e. in a direction parallel to the spar 121) on the X of the priming device 22.

[0212] The angle of attack of the Y (or V) of the initiating device 21 is defined as the angle of an arm of the Y (or V) relative to the horizontal (which corresponds to the direction of the beam of the ceiling frame) when the foot of the Y (or the tip of the V) touches the ground or the base.

[0213] Similarly, the angle of attack of the X of the priming device 22 is defined as the angle of an arm of the X relative to the horizontal when the lower ends of the X touch the ground or the base. The X of the priming device 22 and the Y (or V) of the priming device 21 are configured so that the angle of attack of the Y of the priming device 21 is greater than the angle of attack of X of the priming device 22, which makes it possible to straighten the Y of the priming device 22 and then, at the same time as the Y straightens, to push on the X of the priming device 22 using the Y of the priming device 21 and thus to participate in the straightening of the X of the priming device 22. Such a configuration of the initiating devices 21, 22 make it possible to limit the efforts to be provided for the initial phase of separation of the ceiling 12 relative to the base 11. As recalled above, once the X and Y (or V) of the initiating devices are supported on the ground, the continuation of their straightening causes the ceiling 12 to separate from the base 11, which is accompanied by the start of straightening of the front and rear wall walls 8, 8', and which makes it possible to obtain a more favorable angle of attack of the wall walls to continue their straightening until the end of the deployment of the wall walls 8, 8'.

[0214] The deployment (straightening) of the X is promoted by the effect of the thrust of the V-lift initiating device 21 on the X-lift initiating device 22 along the spar.

[0215] At the same time, the or each X-shaped device of the stabilization system 3 continues to deploy, accompanying the separation of the ceiling 12 relative to the base 11.

[0216] Continued actuation of the control system SC28 causes the pads P128 of the wall panel 8 to move towards the corresponding beam 121 so that the wall panel 8 straightens by pivoting around its joints at the base, until it comes into a vertically upright position to at least partially close the front face of the structure (an example is illustrated in Figure 5). The wall panel 8 then preferably extends between the ceiling beam and a portion of the base located directly above the beam. According to a preferred embodiment, the wall panel 8 abuts against a reinforcing and sealing fold.

[0217] After the lifting initiation system S2 has finished initiating the lifting of the ceiling 12 and the lifting continuation system S8 has taken over the lifting of the ceiling frame 120, the continued lifting of the ceiling frame 120 relative to the base 11 by the straightening of the front and / or rear wall(s) of the lifting continuation system S8 causes the separation (lifting) of the V-shaped device 21 and the X-shaped device 22, relative to the base 11, because the initiating system S2 is carried by the ceiling 12.

[0218] Rails can be fixed to the floor or to the base for guiding the rollers of the Y-shaped device 21 and of the X-shaped device 22 when they are resting on the floor or on the base, without however preventing the lifting of the Y-shaped device 21, and of the X-shaped device 22 during the continued straightening of the front and / or rear wall(s).

[0219] In particular, at the same time as the wall panel 8 slides along crosspieces of the ceiling via the pads P128, the wall panel pivots relative to said crosspieces by its articulations 118, 128 at the base and at the pads P128 carried by the ceiling. This sliding and articulated assembly of the wall panel makes it possible to actively continue the separation of the ceiling relative to the base which was initiated by the deployment of the priming system S2.

[0220] Thus, when the X and Y of the priming system S2 have finished straightening, it is the continued straightening of the wall 8 which allows the ceiling 12 to continue to rise relative to the base 11, the stabilizing device 3 accompanying this separation by continuing to deploy (straighten). The devices 21 and 22 which are linked to the ceiling 12 are then no longer supported on the ground or at the base and are moved in height with the ceiling 12.

[0221] The Y and X devices 21 and 22 are preferably returned by a spring system to the folded position parallel to the spar, so that the Y and X devices 21 and 22 can return to their initial position along the spar 121, even in the deployed state of the structure 1 (example in Figure 6), preferably being masked by the masking device.

[0222] As can be seen in the example of Figure 6, it can be provided that the side wall 5 is brought into the deployed (erect) position by a thrust spring 590, in combination with the motor 510 which controls the unwinding of the cable 529 attached to the side wall 5 to control the movement and avoid sudden tilting of the side wall 5. The description given below for the side wall (gable) 5 also applies to the opposite side wall 5'.

[0223] The movement of the side wall 5 into the upright position is preferably triggered when the wall 8 reaches the end of its vertical deployment stroke, i.e. in the upright position.

[0224] Advantageously, the jack 590 allows the side wall 5 to be held against uprights of the wall 8, in the vertical configuration of the side wall 5.

[0225] The motor 510 makes it possible to raise the side wall 5 opposite the ceiling 12, if it is desired to open the corresponding lateral side of the structure, or when folding the structure.

[0226] The deployment of the structure thus includes two main phases:

[0227] - the first phase comprises the initiation of the lifting of the ceiling 12 by the initiation device 21 in Y and the initiation device 22 in X used as lever arms, which allows the detachment of the ceiling 12 with respect to the base 11 so that the angle for the lifting of the wall or walls 8, 8' front and / or rear is more favorable;

[0228] - for the second phase, given that the angle allowing the deployment of the front and / or rear wall(s) 8, 8' is now more favorable, the continued movement of the pads P128 of the wall(s) 8, 8' along the crosspieces of the ceiling frame is facilitated, which makes it possible to finalize with reduced effort the spacing of the ceiling 12 and therefore the deployment of the structure 1.

[0229] The M28 motor can be released (freewheel) and / or operated in the opposite direction, to allow a return spring to return the pads of the X and Y priming devices to their initial position, for example to bring them into a retracted position behind the masking device 129.

[0230] Folding process

[0231] Folding can be done by repeating the steps described above in reverse.

[0232] Steering unit

[0233] The structure may include a drive unit for driving the motors of the control systems, in particular the M28 motor of the SC28 control system and the 510 motor.

[0234] The control unit is, for example, in the form of a processor and a data memory in which instructions are stored. computer programs executable by said processor, or in the form of a microcontroller.

[0235] In other words, the functions and steps described can be implemented in the form of a computer program or via hardware components (e.g. programmable gate arrays). In particular, the functions and steps operated by the control unit, in particular for motor control, can be carried out by instruction sets or computer modules implemented in a processor or controller or be carried out by dedicated electronic components or components of the programmable logic circuit type (or FPGA which is the acronym for field-programmable gate array, which literally corresponds to in-situ programmable gate array) or of the application-specific integrated circuit type (or AS IC which is the acronym for application-specific integrated circuit, which literally corresponds to application-specific integrated circuit). It is also possible to combine computer parts and electronic parts.

[0236] The control unit is thus an electronic and / or computer unit. When it is specified that said unit is configured to carry out a given operation, this means that the unit comprises computer instructions and the corresponding execution means which make it possible to carry out said operation and / or that the unit comprises corresponding electronic components.

[0237] According to one embodiment of the invention, the walls and the side members and / or cross members of the structure, and possibly the base, may comprise an extension mechanism depending on the desired dimensions.

[0238] The structure can be fitted with shutters or bays.

[0239] The invention is not limited to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings. Accordingly, it should be understood that, where the features mentioned in the appended claims are followed by reference signs, these signs are included solely for the purpose of improving the intelligibility of the claims and are in no way limiting the scope of the claims.

[0240] Furthermore, the term "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps. In addition, features or steps that have been described with reference to one Embodiments set forth above may also be used in combination with other features or steps of other embodiments set forth above.

Claims

Claims

1. Shelter structure (1), such as a temporary office or swimming pool cover, deployable and foldable comprising: - a base (11); - a ceiling (12) comprising a ceiling frame (120) comprising side members (121) connected to each other by cross members (122); - a wall panel (8) called the front wall panel; - a deployment control system; characterized in that the front wall panel (8) has a lower part (118) hinged to the base (11) and an upper part equipped with pads (P128) slidably mounted along parallel elements (123) of the ceiling frame (120), the upper part of the front wall panel (8) being hinged to said pads (P128); the deployment control system (SC28) is configured to: - controlling a lifting initiation system (S2) to move the ceiling frame (120) away from the base (11) by a given distance, called the initiation distance, so that the front wall (8) moves from a position substantially parallel to the ceiling frame (120) to a position inclined relative to the ceiling frame (120); - controlling the movement of the pads (P128) of the front wall panel (8) in the direction of straightening the wall panel (8) so that the straightening of the front wall panel (8) causes the ceiling frame (120) to continue moving away from the base (11) until the front wall panel (8) extends substantially perpendicular to the ceiling frame (120).

2. The structure of claim 1, wherein the lifting initiation system (S2) is carried by the ceiling frame (120) such that in the fully deployed state of the structure, the lifting initiation system (S2) is spaced from the base.

3. A structure according to any preceding claim, wherein the lifting initiation system (S2) comprises a first initiation device (21) having two arms (211, 212) hinged to each other, in an X, Y or V shape, the upper ends (211A, 212A) of the X, Y or V being connected to the ceiling frame (120); the upper ends (211A, 212A) being movable between: a position spaced apart from each other in which the first initiation device (21) is folded, and a position brought closer to each other in which the first initiation device (21) is erected orthogonally to the ceiling frame (120).

4. Structure according to claim 3, wherein the lifting initiating system (S2) comprises a second initiating device (22) having two arms (221, 222) hinged to each other, in the shape of an X, a Y or a V, the upper ends of the X, Y or V being connected to the ceiling frame (120); the upper ends (221A, 222A) being movable between: a position spaced apart from each other in which the second initiating device (22) is folded, and a position brought closer to each other in which the second initiating device (22) is erected orthogonally to the ceiling frame (120); the longest arm (211) of the first priming device (21) being of shorter length than the arms (221, 222), or the longest arm, of the second priming device (22).

5. Structure according to claim 4, in which the control system (SC28) for deploying the structure is configured with the lifting initiation system (S2) so that, during the control of the lifting initiation system (S2) in the direction of deploying the structure, the first initiation device (21) straightens, and pushes on the second priming device (22) in the direction of bringing the ends (221 A, 222A) of the second priming device (22) closer to each other.

6. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, in which at least a part of the lifting initiation system (S2), is mounted articulated on a skate system (P21, P2122) mounted sliding along at least one element (121) of the ceiling frame orthogonal to the elements (123) along which the wall panel (8) is mounted sliding.

7. Structure according to claim 6, in which one end (212A) of the first priming device (21) is slidably connected to one end of the second device (22), preferably fixed to the same pad (P2122) by being articulated to said pad (P2122).

8. Structure according to any one of claims 4 to 7, in which the upper end (222A) of the second priming device (22) furthest from the first priming device (21) is articulated to the ceiling frame (120), without freedom of sliding relative to the ceiling frame (120), by connecting said end to a fixed part (L22) of the ceiling frame (120).

9. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the structure comprises an immobilization system, activatable / deactivatable, of the ceiling frame (120) relative to the base (11), configured so that, in the activated state of the immobilization system, the control of the lifting initiation system (S2) by the deployment control system (SC28) causes the lifting of the entire ceiling frame (120) and the base (11), the structure being supported on the ground by the lower part of the lifting initiation system (S2).

10. Structure according to claim 9, in which the lower part of the lifting initiation system (S2) is provided with rolling members and the structure comprises a motorization system making it possible to control the movement of the structure on the ground, by rolling of the structure resting on said rolling members.

11. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the structure comprises two stabilizing systems (3) arranged along two opposite sides of the ceiling frame (120), which are perpendicular to the side along which said wall panel (8) extends before the upright state, and which are configured to, when the ceiling frame (120) is moved away from the base (11), maintain a movement of the ceiling frame (120) parallel to itself, and in a direction orthogonal to the plane in which said ceiling frame (120) extends.

12. Structure according to claim 11, in which each stabilization system (3) comprises a stabilization device comprising two arms (31, 32) in X, the upper ends of the X being connected to the ceiling frame (120); the upper ends being movable between: - a position spaced apart from each other in which the stabilizing device is folded against the ceiling frame (120), and - a position close to each other in which the stabilizing device is erected orthogonally to the ceiling frame (120).

13. A structure according to any preceding claim, wherein the structure comprises at least one side wall (5,5') and a side wall deployment system (500) configured to move the side wall (5,5') from a position substantially parallel to the ceiling frame (120) in the collapsed state of the structure, to a straightened position substantially orthogonal to the ceiling frame (120) in the expanded state of the structure.

14. The structure of claim 13, wherein the sidewall deployment system (500) comprises: - a pushing system (590), such as a jack or a spring, making it possible to push on the side wall (5) to drive the side wall (5) from the position substantially parallel to the ceiling frame (120), to the upright position, and preferably to keep the side wall (5) pressed against a rail of the wall panel (8); - preferably, a braking system (510, 515, 529, 528) for the movement of the side wall (5) from its position substantially parallel to the ceiling frame (120) to its upright position.

15. A structure according to claim 14, wherein the side wall deployment system (500) comprises a roller system (501, 502) carried by the side wall (5) and a guide rail carried by the wall (8), the guide rail being configured to receive the roller system (501, 502) and guide the straightening of the side wall (5) as it passes from the position substantially parallel to the ceiling frame (120) to the straightened position.

16. Structure according to claim 15, in which the upper part of the side wall (5) is slidably mounted along an element (125A, 125B) of the ceiling frame (120) orthogonal to the elements (123) along which the wall panel (8) is slidably mounted.

17. Structure according to claim 16, in which the element (125A, 125B) of the ceiling frame along which the side wall (5) is slidably mounted, has an opening (1255) allowing the front part of the side wall (5) to fall for its guidance along a rail of the corresponding wall (8) in which a roller (502) of the side wall (5) is able to engage during its straightening controlled by the side wall deployment system (500).

18. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the ceiling frame (120) comprises intermediate crosspieces (123), which are parallel to said crosspieces (121), called end crosspieces, of the ceiling frame, and along which the pads (P128) which equip the wall panel (8) are slidably mounted.

19. Structure according to the preceding claim, in which the structure comprises a return system (R8), such as a spring or a jack, configured to allow pushing on the upper part of the corresponding wall panel (8) in the direction of repositioning the wall panel (8) parallel to the ceiling frame (120) when moving from the deployed position to the folded position of the structure.

20. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the deployment control system (SC28) comprises: - a cable (290) and pulley (828, 828A, 824) system, which connects the pads (P128) of the wall panel and pads (P21, P2122) to which the lifting initiation system (S2) is connected, said pads (P21, P2122) of the lifting initiation system (S2) being slidably mounted along element(s) of the ceiling frame which are orthogonal to the elements of the ceiling frame along which the pads (P128) of the wall panel are slidably mounted; - a winch (T28) to which the cable (290) is connected; - preferably, an electric motorization system (M28) for driving the winch (T28) in the direction of winding or unwinding the cable (290).

21. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the base (11) comprises at least one, preferably two, series of plates (111A), preferably capable of being fixed to the ground, the plates of the or each series of plates being arranged parallel to an element, preferably a stringer (121), of the ceiling frame (120) to be preferably arranged directly above said element (121), the wall panel (8) preferably comprising uprights (M8) whose lower ends are articulated to said plates (111A).

22. Structure according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the structure also comprises a so-called rear wall wall (8'); the rear wall wall (8') having a lower part articulated to the base (11) and an upper part equipped with pads slidably mounted along parallel elements (123) of the ceiling frame (120), the rear wall wall (8') being articulated to said pads; the deployment control system (SC28) also being configured so that, when the ceiling frame (120) is moved away from the base (11) by the lifting initiation system (S2), the rear wall wall (8') passes from a position substantially parallel to the ceiling frame (120) to a position inclined relative to the ceiling frame (120);the deployment control system (SC28) also being configured to control the movement of the pads of the rear wall panel (8') in the direction of straightening the rear wall panel (8') so that the straightening of the rear wall panel (8') causes the ceiling frame (120) to continue moving away from the base (11), until the rear wall panel (8') extends substantially perpendicular to the ceiling frame (120).;

23. A method of deploying a shelter structure (1), such as a temporary office or swimming pool cover, according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the method comprises the following steps: - controlling the lifting initiation system (S2) to move the ceiling frame (120) away from the base (11) by a given distance, called the initiation distance, so that the front wall (8) moves from a position substantially parallel to the ceiling frame (120) to a position inclined relative to the ceiling frame (120); - controlling the movement of the pads (P128) of the front wall (8) in the direction of straightening the wall (8) so that the straightening of the front wall (8) causes the ceiling frame (120) to continue moving away from the base (11) until the front wall (8) extends substantially perpendicular to the ceiling frame (120).

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