Method and system for reversibly covering a zone

Abstract

A transport system is provided for enabling deploying / undeploying a strip panel element with respect to a ground zone. The transport system includes a motor drive system operatively coupled to a controller, and includes at least one pair of motor arrangements, each having a first motor arrangement and a second motor arrangement having respective turning axes at least parallel to one another. The first and second motor arrangements are mechanically uncoupled with respect to one another. The first motor arrangement cooperates with one lateral side of the strip panel element to thereby selectively cause the lateral side to be longitudinally displaced by a respective accumulated displacement. The second motor arrangement cooperates with another lateral side of the strip panel element to thereby selectively cause this lateral side to be longitudinally displaced by a respective accumulated displacement. The controller operates each pair such as to match the respective accumulated displacements.

Description

[0001] METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR REVERSIBLY COVERING A ZONE

[0002] TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

[0003] The presently disclosed subject matter relates to systems and methods or covering a zone, in particular a ground zone such as an agricultural ground area.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Certain zones, for example a ground zone such as an agricultural growth area on the ground for example, sometimes require to be reversibly covered. For example, it may be desired or necessary, to protect the ground zone from any one of sunlight in general or UV radiation in particular, hail, frost, rain, and / or to provide thermal protection or protection against insects, birds or other pests.

[0006] By way of non-limiting example, WO 2021 / 053664 discloses a rail element having a longitudinal axis, a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end longitudinally spaced from the first end along the longitudinal axis. The rail element includes a rail body longitudinally extending between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end, the rail body defining therein at least one longitudinally extending first lumen having a longitudinally co-extensive transverse first opening, the rail element being configured for being mounted to at least one longitudinal support member in load bearing contact therewith in operation of the rail element. The rail element is configured for being mounted to the at least one longitudinal support member in a non-longitudinal manner. A system for covering an area incorporating such rail elements is also provided, as well as a method for using such a system.

[0007] Also way of non-limiting example, US 2019 / 054806 discloses a retractable overhead assembly for a vehicle having a retractable cover under tension and an integrated stiffening rod that includes attachment features to selectively connect to a windshield area. The retractable system is self contained within an extrusion keeping the overall package size small and the installation / removal simple. The retractable cover creates a sun shade over the vehicle front cockpit and / or rear passenger area when deployed, and is retractable to a stowed position. The retractable overhead assembly is installable under any hard or soft top assembly configuration, and does not impede use or operation of the hard top or soft top assembly.

[0008] Also way of non-limiting example, EP 1083347 discloses a method of manufacturing a rolling element string wherein a smaller rolling element string can be manufactured easily at low cost, and a rolling element string being superior in the tensile strength and the flexural strength even after downsizing can be manufactured. The present invention to achieve the object is a method of manufacturing a rolling element string having a number of rolling elements aligned and rollably retained at prescribed intervals, comprising a first step of forming a flat band shaped belt member with a synthetic resin, a second step of forming retaining holes aligned on said belt member in a row for receiving the rolling elements loosely, and a third step of aligning the rolling elements within said retaining holes and forming the spacer portions between the respective adjacent retaining holes by injection molding for retaining said rolling element with said rolling elements used as cores, so that said rolling elements are trapped within said retaining holes.

[0009] Also way of non-limiting example, EP 2018987 discloses a protective device with a flexible protective canopy, having a winding shaft, on which the protective canopy is held so that it can be wound and unwound, and a mounting in which the winding shaft is rotatably supported is known, the mounting with its opposing lateral areas being guided so that it is longitudinally displaceable, and the protective canopy having a leading edge face which is immovably secured. According to the invention, over the displacement length of the mounting, at least, the opposite lateral areas each have a flexible cover profile assigned to them, which immovably extends parallel to the guides and projects transversely to the direction of displacement towards the middle of the protective canopy, in such a way that the cover profile at least partially covers a corresponding lateral edge of the protective canopy and the corresponding lateral area of the mounting. Use as sunshade for passenger cars. Also way of non-limiting example, EP 3162603 discloses an open roof construction for a vehicle having a roof opening in its fixed roof, and comprises a transparent movable panel and a sunshade assembly including a winding mechanism and a screen which is stretched in a non-linear shape in transverse direction during use. The winding mechanism comprises a winding tube connected to the attached edge of the screen and which is rotatable about an axis of rotation for winding and unwinding said screen between an extended position screening said roof opening and a retracted position releasing said roof opening. A transverse guide extends in transverse direction and is disposed between the beam and the winding tube. The transverse guide is curved in transverse direction to form the screen in a non-linear shape between the guide and the beam. In one aspect, the transverse guide guides at least a part of both the upper and lower surfaces of the screen in order to urge the screen into a partly convex and partly concave shape. According to another aspect, at least one longitudinal guide for the screen extends between the transverse guide and a stationary part on the opposite side of the roof opening and adapted to guide the screen from below.

[0010] Also way of non-limiting example, US 5,762,393 discloses a vehicle sun shade system that includes a shade assembly including a shade housing including having a shade member mounted on a shade retraction mechanism in a manner to allow the shade member to be retracted into and deployed from the shade housing, a number of shade securing suction cups secured to leading edge of the shade member, and two shade assembly supports; a flexible, plastic, magnetic mounting mat secured to the shade housing by the shade assembly supports; and left and right window securing assemblies each including an adjustable length strap with a securing buckle and a window mount, one end of the adjustable length strap being secured to a shade assembly support, the window mount including a window edge channel and a buckle insert, the buckle insert being lockable to the securing buckle.

[0011] Also way of non-limiting example, US 2012 / 180961 discloses a sunshade device for a vehicle includes a sunshade cloth that has two opposite lateral ends inserted respectively into two track rails, a fixed end fixed to a winding shaft assembly, and a pull end interconnecting the lateral ends oppositely of the fixed end. A cross bar is attached to the pull end and extends between the track rails. A tensioning unit includes a spring disposed within the cross bar, a buffer sleeve disposed around the spring, and two tension cords each having an intermediate section attached to one of two lateral ends of the sunshade cloth, a first end section connected to one end of the spring, and a second end section connected to the winding shaft assembly. The tension cords prevent the sunshade cloth from becoming slack.

[0012] Also way of non-limiting example, US 3,051,232 discloses a retractable cover assembly and a draw cord carrier therefor.

[0013] Also way of non-limiting example, GB 2,251,777 discloses a cover arrangement which has a flexible sheet which can be rapidly drawn across an area from a roller arrangement. The sheet is supported at its edges in guide rails attached to posts spaced along the length of the area. The sheet has suitable formations at its edges which are received in the rails.

[0014] Also way of non-limiting example, FR 2,947,298 discloses an assembly has three fabric holding sections including slot groove stages for holding and maintaining fabrics, and T-shaped extending protrusions arranged in symmetry with corresponding supporting slot grooves, where the section is obtained by extrusion of metal alloy / plastic material. The protrusion of the first holding section is slid in the groove of the second holding section to obtain a two-stage fabric holding section. The protrusion of the second holding section is slid in the groove of the third holding section to obtain a three-stage fabric holding section.

[0015] Also way of non-limiting example, AU 610508 discloses a clipping assembly for retaining flexible sheet material.

[0016] GENERAL DESCRIPTION

[0017] According to a first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a transport system for enabling selectively and alternately deploying and undeploying a strip panel element with respect to a ground zone, the transport system comprising a motor drive system operatively coupled to a controller, the motor drive system comprising at least one pair of motor arrangements, wherein for each said pair: the pair of motor arrangements comprises a first motor arrangement and a second motor arrangement having respective first turning axis and second turning axis, respectively, at least parallel to one another, wherein the first motor arrangement and the second motor arrangement are mechanically uncoupled with respect to one another, the first motor arrangement being configured for cooperating with a respective first lateral side of the strip panel element in a manner to thereby selectively cause the first lateral side to be longitudinally displaced by a respective first accumulated displacement; the second motor arrangement being configured for cooperating with a respective second lateral side of the strip panel element in a manner to thereby selectively cause the second lateral side to be longitudinally displaced by a respective second accumulated displacement; wherein said controller is configured for operating each said pair such as to match the respective first accumulated displacement with respect to the respective second accumulated displacement.

[0018] For example, each said motor arrangement comprising an electric motor and an output shaft, the output shaft being fixedly mounted to a drive drum, the drive drum being configured for cooperating with and displacing the respective lateral side of the strip panel element responsive to a rotation of the respective drive drum by the respective motor arrangement.

[0019] Additionally or alternatively for example, each said motor arrangement comprises a respective rotational speed sensor system configured for enabling determination of a respective rotational speed of the respective drive drum, and wherein the respective rotational speed sensor system is operatively coupled to the controller. For example, the drive system is configured for enabling determining in real time the respective first accumulated displacement and the respective second accumulated displacement of each said pair from the respective said rotational speed.

[0020] Additionally or alternatively for example, for each said pair, the respective first turning axis and the respective second turning axis are coaxial with respect to one another. Additionally or alternatively for example, said controller is configured for generating and transmitting suitable actuation signals to at least one said motor arrangement of each said pair such as to cause a change in rotational speed of the respective said motor arrangement, such as to thereby match the respective first accumulated displacement with respect to the respective second accumulated displacement.

[0021] Additionally or alternatively for example, each said motor arrangement comprises a channel system comprising a first channel portion, turning channel portion, and a second channel portion serially arranged and in open communication with one another, the channel system being configured for facilitating cooperation of the respective lateral side of the strip panel element with the respective motor arrangement, in operation of the transport system. For example, each respective motor arrangement is configured for changing a direction of motion of the respective lateral side by a turning angle, as the respective lateral side is being transported with respect to the respective motor arrangement, and wherein the first channel portion and the second channel portion are angularly displaced with respect to one another by said turning angle. For example, said turning angle is nominally 90°

[0022] Additionally or alternatively for example, the transport system comprises two said pairs of motor arrangements, longitudinally spaced from one another.

[0023] According to a second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided a covering system for reversibly covering a zone, comprising a first rail element, a second rail element, a strip panel element, and a transport system, the covering system having a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, wherein the strip panel element is configured for being selectively transported with respect to said first rail element and said second rail element between said first longitudinal end and said second longitudinal end via said transport system, and wherein the transport system is as defined herein according to the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0024] For example, the first rail element and the second rail element are laterally spaced from one another, and wherein the first rail element is configured for enabling the first lateral side of the strip panel element to be transported therein, and wherein the second rail element is configured for enabling the second lateral side of the strip panel element to be transported therein, during operation of the covering system.

[0025] For example, the strip panel element comprises a plurality of rail engagement elements on each one of the first lateral side and the second lateral side, and wherein each said rail element comprises a lumen configured for enabling the respective rail engagement elements of the respective lateral side of the strip panel element to be received therein.

[0026] Additionally or alternatively for example, the strip panel element comprises a sheet for covering the ground zone when the covering system is deployed, and for uncovering the ground zone when the covering system is undeployed. For example, the sheet is made from a flexible sheet material. Additionally or alternatively for example, the sheet is formed as a contiguous material, or, the sheet is formed as an open mesh material.

[0027] Additionally or alternatively for example, the strip panel element comprises an elongate first mounting tape affixed to a first lateral side of the sheet and comprising a respective said plurality of rail engagement elements affixed to the first mounting tape, and an elongate second mounting tape affixed to a second lateral side of the sheet and comprising a respective said plurality of rail engagement elements affixed to the second mounting tape. For example, the sheet comprises a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, wherein the second longitudinal end is longitudinally spaced from the first longitudinal end, and wherein the strip panel element further comprises a first mounting tape extension and a second mounting tale extension, each said first and second mounting tape extension extending from the first longitudinal end in a direction away from the second longitudinal end. For example, the first mounting tape extension is contiguous with the first mounting tape, and the second mounting tape extension is contiguous with the second mounting tape, and wherein each one of said first mounting tape extension and said second mounting tape extension comprises a respective plurality of said rail engagement elements affixed thereto. For example, the first mounting tape extension and the second mounting tape extension each extend from the first longitudinal end by an extension length is sufficient to ensure that the first mounting tape extension and the second mounting tape extension are engaged with the second said pair of drive motor arrangements when the first and second mounting tapes are engaged with the first pair of drive motor arrangements to thereby ensure that the strip panel element is fully engaged with all the motor arrangements of the motor drive system regardless of the position of the strip panel element between a fully deployed position and a fully undeployed position. For example, in the fully deployed position, the sheet is fully superposed over the zone, while in the fully undeployed position, no part of the sheet is superposed over the zone.

[0028] According to a third aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a method for enabling selectively and alternately deploying and undeploying a strip panel element with respect to a ground zone, wherein the transport system is as defined herein regarding the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, the method comprising operating each said pair such as to match the respective first accumulated displacement with respect to the respective second accumulated displacement.

[0029] For example, the method comprises determining a respective rotational speed of each respective drive drum.

[0030] For example, the method comprises determining in real time the respective first accumulated displacement and the respective second accumulated displacement of each said pair from the respective said rotational speed.

[0031] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the method comprises generating and transmitting suitable actuation signals to at least one said motor arrangement of each said pair such as to cause a change in rotational speed of the respective said motor arrangement, to thereby match the respective first accumulated displacement with respect to the respective second accumulated displacement.

[0032] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the method comprises providing two said pairs of motor arrangements, and determining respective displacement differences between the respective accumulated displacements of the strip panel element at each of the four motor arrangements, respectively, at suitable time intervals after commencement of the deployment or undeployment of the strip panel element. For example, the method comprises the following steps:

[0033] (I) providing a first said displacement difference by determining the difference between the respective accumulated displacements at the two motor arrangements of the first pair;

[0034] (II) providing a second said displacement difference by determining the difference between the respective accumulated displacements at the two motor arrangements of the second pair;

[0035] (III) providing a third said displacement difference by determining the difference between the respective accumulated displacements at the two motor arrangements of a first lateral side of the strip panel element;

[0036] (IV) providing a fourth said displacement difference by determining the difference between the respective accumulated displacements at the two motor arrangements of a second lateral side of the strip panel element.

[0037] For example, the method comprises the following steps:

[0038] (A) at a first time interval from commencement of deployment or undeployment of the strip panel element with respect to the zone, determining each of the first displacement difference, the second displacement difference, the third displacement difference, and the fourth displacement difference;

[0039] (B) determining whether the magnitude of the first displacement difference is within a first threshold - if yes, continuing to step (C); if no adjusting the rotational speed of at least one motor arrangement of the first pair such as to bring the first displacement difference to not greater than the first threshold within a predetermined first time period, and thereafter proceeding with step

[0040] (C);

[0041] (C) determining whether the magnitude of the second displacement difference is within a second threshold- if yes, continuing to step (D); if no adjusting the rotational speed of at least one motor arrangement of the second pair such as to bring the second displacement difference to not greater than the second threshold within a predetermined second time period, and thereafter proceeding with step (D); (D) determining whether the magnitude of the third displacement difference is within a third threshold- if yes, continuing to step (E); if no adjusting the rotational speed of at least one motor arrangement of the first lateral side such as to bring the third displacement difference to not greater than the third threshold within a predetermined third time period, and thereafter proceeding with step (E);

[0042] (E) determining whether the magnitude of the fourth displacement difference is within a fourth threshold- if yes, continuing to step (F); if no adjusting the rotational speed of at least one motor arrangement of the second lateral side such as to bring the fourth displacement difference to not greater than the fourth threshold within a predetermined fourth time period, and thereafter proceed with step (F);

[0043] (F) determining whether the strip panel member been fully deployed / fully undeployed; if yes the four motor arrangements are switched off; if no, at a next said time interval after the preceding said time interval, determining each of the first displacement difference, the second displacement difference, the third displacement difference, and the fourth displacement difference, and then proceeding with step (G);

[0044] (G) repeating steps (B) to (F) until in step (F) the strip panel member has been fully deployed / fully undeployed.

[0045] According to a fourth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a method for reversibly covering a zone, comprising providing a covering system as defined in regarding the second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, the method comprising selectively and alternately undeploying the strip panel element with respect to a ground zone.

[0046] According to a fifth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a motor arrangement comprising an electric motor and an output shaft, the output shaft being fixedly mounted to a drive drum, the drive drum being configured for cooperating with and displacing a respective lateral side of the strip panel element responsive to a rotation of the respective drive drum by the respective motor arrangement, and wherein said motor arrangement comprises a channel system comprising a first channel portion, turning channel portion, and a second channel portion serially arranged and in open communication with one another, the channel system being configured for facilitating cooperation of the respective lateral side of the strip panel element with the respective motor arrangement, in operation of the transport system.

[0047] For example, said motor arrangement comprises a respective rotational speed sensor system configured for enabling determination of a respective rotational speed of the respective drive drum.

[0048] Additionally or alternatively, for example, each respective motor arrangement is configured for changing a direction of motion of the respective lateral side by a turning angle, as the respective lateral side is being transported with respect to the motor arrangement, and wherein the first channel portion and the second channel portion are angularly displaced with respect to one another by said turning angle. For example, said turning angle is nominally 90°.

[0049] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0050] In order to better understand the subject matter that is disclosed herein and to exemplify how it may be carried out in practice, examples will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0051] Fig- 1 is an isometric view of a system for reversibly covering a zone, according to a first example of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0052] Fig- 2 is a plan view of the example of Fig. 1.

[0053] Fig- 3 is a longitudinal cross-sectional side view of the example of Fig. 2, taken along A-A.

[0054] Fig. 4 is a transverse cross-sectional side view of the example of Fig. 2, taken along B-B.

[0055] Fig. 5 is a plan view of the strip panel element of the example of Fig. 1.

[0056] Fig. 6 is a transverse cross-sectional view of the example of Fig. 5 taken along E- E. Fig- 7 is a transverse cross-sectional view of an alternative variation of the example of Fig. 6.

[0057] Fig- 8 is a transverse cross-sectional side view of the example of Fig. 2, taken along D-D.

[0058] Fig. 9 schematically illustrates an example of the transport system of the example of Fig. 1.

[0059] Fig. 10 is an isometric exploded view of an example of a motor arrangement of the example of Fig. 1.

[0060] Fig- 11 is an isometric assembled view of the example of Fig. 10.

[0061] Fig. 12 is another isometric assembled view of the example of Fig. 10.

[0062] Fig. 13 schematically illustrates a drive drum of the example of Fig. 10.

[0063] Fig. 14 is a plan view of an alternative variation of the example of Fig. 1.

[0064] Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional side view of the example of Fig. 14, taken along C-C.

[0065] Fig. 16 is an isometric view of a rail element and motor arrangements of an alternative variation of the example Fig. 1.

[0066] Fig. 17 schematically illustrates an example of a method of operating the system of the example of Fig. 1.

[0067] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0068] Referring to Figs. 1, 2 and 3, a system (also referred to interchangeably herein as "covering system") for reversibly covering a zone ZO according to a first example of the presently disclosed subject matter, generally designated 100, comprises a first rail element 300A, a second rail element 300B, a strip panel element 400, and a transport system 900, the system 100 having a first longitudinal end 110 and a second longitudinal end 120. The transport system 900 comprises a motor drive system 600 operatively coupled to a controller 500.

[0069] While in this example, the system 100 is configured for reversibly covering a zone in the form of a ground area, in vertical spaced relationship therewith, in particular an agricultural ground area, the presently disclosed subject matter is not limited to such applications, and can be used for covering any suitable zone, particularly in vertical spaced relationship therewith. For example, such alternative applications of the system 100 can include any one of: covering for a body of water such as for example a swimming pool or pond; covering for a religious tabernacle (known as a “Succah”); and so on.

[0070] In at least this example, the system 100 can be used for covering a ground zone ZO of any suitable size and rectangular shape. In at least this example, the ground zone ZO is in the form of a rectangular strip having a respective longitudinal dimension LO and transverse dimension TO, and is reversibly covered by the system 100. For example, the ground zone ZO can be part of a greenhouse, and the system 100 can be used for reversibly covering a ground zone ZO with thermal and / or darkened and / or shade screens.

[0071] Referring in particular to Fig. 2, the first rail element 300A and the second rail element 300B of the system 100 co-extend longitudinally along a longitudinal dimension LI, and are laterally spaced from one another by a first transverse spacing Tl. The longitudinal dimension LI, and first transverse spacing Tl generally correspond to the longitudinal dimension LO and transverse dimension TO of the respective zone ZO.

[0072] In at least this example and in other examples, the first rail element 300A and the second real element 300B are essentially similar mirror images of one another, or identical mirror images of one another, and thus shall also be collectively referred to as rail element 300. However, in alternative variations of this example, and in other examples, the first rail element 300A and the second rail element 300B can be different from one another.

[0073] The rail elements 300 are each generally elongate, and can be rectilinear or curved, or can include sections which are rectilinear and / or sections which are curved, in any combination. In at least this example, each rail element 300 has a uniform cross section.

[0074] Referring again to Fig. 2, in a first example thereof, each rail element 300 comprises a respective open first longitudinal end 302 and a respective open second longitudinal end 304, the first longitudinal end 302 being longitudinally spaced from the second longitudinal end 304 by longitudinal dimension LI.

[0075] The first longitudinal end 302 corresponds to the first longitudinal end 110 of the system 100, and the second longitudinal end 304 corresponds to the second longitudinal end Referring to Fig. 4, in a first example thereof, each rail element 300 comprises a rail respective body 350 comprising a generally C-shaped transverse cross-section defining a lumen 310 having a longitudinally co-extensive transverse first opening 315 in the form of a longitudinal slit, nominally parallel to first longitudinal axis LAI of the first lumen 310, the first lumen 310 and transverse first opening 315 longitudinally extending the length LI of the rail element 300, between the first longitudinal end 302 and the second longitudinal end 304.

[0076] The opening 315 has respective facing edges 341a, 341b spaced by spacing Sa defining the opening dimension in a direction orthogonal to the first longitudinal axis LAI.

[0077] It is to be noted that the lumen 310 has a first transverse cross-section having a first internal transverse dimension Da parallel to first opening dimension Sa, the first internal transverse dimension Da being greater than the first opening dimension Sa.

[0078] In at least this example, the respective transverse opening 315 of the first rail element 300A and the respective transverse opening 315 of the second rail element 300B are each facing, away from their respective longitudinal axes LAI, LA2, and at the same time the two transverse openings 315 are facing one another.

[0079] Each rail element 300 is further configured, at least operation of the system 100, for nominally maintaining its shape, and thus for maintaining a reasonable rigidity, and for minimizing flexing under its own weight and / or under the weight of the strip panel element 400 when coupled thereto. For example, each rail element 300 comprises a longitudinal support element (not shown), for example in the form of a tensile member, for example a wire or cable, for example made from a suitable metal (for example steel), having mechanical properties to enable supporting the weight of the appropriate portion of the system 100, via load bearing contact with the respective rail element 300. For example the longitudinal support element is mounted to, or otherwise affixed to, the respective rail element 300 in load bearing contact therewith.

[0080] Referring again to Fig. 3, the system 100 is configured for being in vertical spaced relationship, via vertical spacing VS, with respect to the zone ZO that it is desired to be reversibly covered thereby. In this connection, the system 100 comprises, in at least this example, a plurality of vertical support members 250 in load bearing relationship with the two rail members 300 for supporting the weight and other loads of system 100 both statically and dynamically.

[0081] In at least this example, the vertical spacing VS is uniform and the same along the longitudinal lengths of the two rail members 300. However, in at least some alternative variations of this example, the vertical spacing VS can be non-uniform along the longitudinal lengths of each of the two rail members 300, and the vertical spacing VS of the two rail members 300 can be the same or different from one another; such non-uniformity for the vertical spacing VS can be suitable, for example, in applications in which the ground zone is non-horizontal, for example uneven, and / or on an incline.

[0082] In this and other examples, the vertical support members 250 are in located in longitudinal spaced relationship with respect to each respective rail member 300, each support member 250 having a first end 252 configured for connection to the rail member 300, and a second end 254 anchored on the respective zone ZO.

[0083] In at least this example, the vertical support members 250 are configured for supporting the system 100 via the respective rail members 300 in load bearing relationship in compression or at least primarily in compression. The vertical support members 250, in particular the respective second ends 254, are in the form of mechanical struts, for example pylons or poles, made for example from wood, metal, stone, concrete or reinforced concrete, or any other suitable materials. Alternatively, each vertical support member 250, in particular the second end 254 thereof, can be in the form of a lattice structure. In any case, the bottom part of the second end 254 can be configured with a suitable base for resting on the ground surface, or with a suitable base for insertion into a suitable hole or other support base made therefor in the zone ZO.

[0084] Referring again to Figs. 1 and 3, each strip panel element 400 is configured for mounting the respective strip panel element 400 with respect to two transversely spaced rail members 300A, 300B, and for enabling reversible relative longitudinal movement between the strip panel element 400 and the rail members 300A, 300B, responsive to operation of the motor drive system 600 via controller 500. Herein “strip panel element”, “strip element”, “sheet element”, “panel” and “panel element” are used interchangeably with one another. Referring to Figs. 5 and 6, the strip panel element 400 has an upper face 410 and a lower face 420, separated from one another by the thickness or depth dimension PD of the strip panel element 400.

[0085] The strip panel element 400 comprises a sheet 480 configured for covering the ground zone ZO when the covering system 100 is deployed, and for uncovering the ground zone ZO when the covering system 100 is undeployed.

[0086] The strip panel element 400 has a first longitudinal end 402 and a second longitudinal end 404, spaced from the first longitudinal end 402 by longitudinal dimension PL. The strip panel element 400 also has a first lateral side 490A and a second latera side 490B.

[0087] The strip panel element 400 also comprises a plurality of rail-engaging elements 460, as will become clearer herein.

[0088] In at least some examples, the sheet 480 is made from a flexible sheet material, for example fabric, plastic, canvas, Kevlar, Nylon, and so on. Furthermore, in at least some examples, the sheet 480 is optionally capable of being rolled into a compact spiral configuration, for example with respect to a roll axis in the width direction, and for being unrolled into at least a nominally flat configuration. In at least some examples, the sheet 480 is made from a flexible material that is not elastically stretchable, at least when subjected to regular loads, tensile or compressive, i.e., the loads for which the sheet 480 is rated during regular use thereof. In at least some other examples, the sheet 480 is made from a flexible material that is partially elastically stretchable, at least when subjected to regular loads, tensile or compressive, i.e., the loads for which the sheet 480 is rated during regular use thereof, and thus one lateral side thereof can stretch or elongate with respect to the other lateral side thereof.

[0089] While the strip panel element 400 can have any suitable shape, in at least this example the strip panel element 400 has a rectangular shape, having a longitudinal dimension PL that is significantly larger than the width dimension PW, both of which are significantly greater than the thickness or depth dimension PD. In some examples the strip panel element 400, and in particular the sheet 480, is formed as or from a contiguous material, i.e., devoid of pores, holes or any other openings that span the thickness or depth dimension PD and thus would otherwise provide fluid communication between the upper face 410 and a lower face 420. For example, the sheet 480 is made from any one of a transparent material, a translucent material or an opaque material. For example such a material can be water resistant. For example, each strip panel element 400 can be configured for covering the zone ZO to thereby provide thermal and / or sunlight protection, and can be in the form of thermal and / or darkened and / or shade screens.

[0090] In other examples, the sheet 480 is made as or from an open mesh material, for example in the form of a net, having a grid structure formed by two pluralities of string elements in mutually orthogonal relationship and defining net openings in the grid. For example, such a net can be provided having net openings large enough to allow for ventilation through the net while preventing insects and / or birds exceeding a certain size (correlated to the size of the net openings) from traversing the net openings.

[0091] In at least this example, and referring also to Fig. 7, the strip panel element 400 comprises an elongate mounting tape 450 affixed to each lateral side of the sheet 480 to form the strip panel element 400. In particular, each mounting tape 450 comprises an outer longitudinal edge portion 456 including outer longitudinal edge 452, and an inner longitudinal edge portion 458 including inner longitudinal edge 454. While in this example the outer edge 452 comprises a cord 451, in alternative variations of this example the cord 451 can be omitted. The cord 451 is configured for reinforcing the outer longitudinal edge portion 456, in particular the outer longitudinal edge 452, and in this example is in the form of a thread element, having a diameter thicker than the thickness of the tape 450.

[0092] The outer longitudinal edge 452 is spaced from the inner longitudinal edge 454 by a width spacing.

[0093] The mounting tape 450 can be affixed to the sheet 480 by being formed integrally therewith, or alternatively by being fixed thereto using any suitable fixing method, for example via mechanical fixing (for example staples, stitching, sewing, etc.), or welding (for example ultrasonic welding, heat welding, etc.), or via bonding (for example using suitable adhesives). In at least this example, the mounting tape 450 is affixed to the sheet 480 via widthwise overlap between respective portions of the sheet 480 and of the mounting tape 450 that include the longitudinal edges of the panel element 400 and the inner longitudinal edges 454. In alternative variations of this example, the mounting tape 450 is affixed to the panel 400 via edge-to-edge contact between the longitudinal edges of the panel element 400 and the inner longitudinal edges 454.

[0094] Each mounting tape 450 comprises a plurality of rail-engaging elements 460 affixed to the outer longitudinal edge 452, in longitudinal spaced relationship. In at least this example, each rail-engaging element 460 is formed as an integral article and comprises a respective engagement portion 465 configured for being received in the first lumen 310 of the respective rail element 300A or 300B, as best seen in Fig. 8.

[0095] In at least this example, each rail-engaging element 460 is formed at or near the outer longitudinal outer edge 454, and is formed as a bead. In alternative variations of this example, each rail-engaging element 460 is formed as a spherical, ellipsoid, or other suitable shape.

[0096] In any case, and referring to Figs. 4, 7 and 8, each engagement portion 465 has a maximum cross-sectional dimension NG greater than the spacing Sa, but sufficiently small to be accommodated in the in the respective first lumen 310, i.e., dimension NG is less than the spacing Da. On the other hand, the mounting tape 450, particularly in the vicinity of the engagement portion 465, has a thickness dimension NE smaller than spacing Sa. Each engagement portion 465 further comprises contact surfaces 461 which are configured to facilitate sliding of each rail-engaging element 460 within the respective first lumens 310. In at least this example, the contact surfaces 461 are in abutting contact with the inside walls that define the first lumen 310 or the second lumen 320 when the rail-engaging elements 460 are mounted to the respective rail member 300.

[0097] The rail-engaging elements 460 affixed to the outer longitudinal edge 454 in longitudinal spaced relationship in which adjacent engagement portion 465 are longitudinally spaced from one another by a longitudinal spacing RM (see Fig. 5).

[0098] In at least this example, the rail-engaging elements 460 are injection-molded directly onto the mounting tape 450, and are made from a material suitable for this purpose, for example thermoplastics materials, including any one of the following materials, for example: POM (Polyoxymethylene), PBT (Polybutylene terephthalate), PA (Polyamide), and so on. In particular, and referring to Fig. 7, the mounting tape 450 can be formed with at least one through-hole 459 formed at the location of, and superposed by, each respective engagement portion 465. Thus, as each rail-engaging element 460 is injection-molded onto the mounting tape 450, integrally straddling the outer edge 454 and cord 451, and the respective engagement portion 465 includes an integral material connection via the through-hole 459.

[0099] Referring again to Fig. 5, the strip panel element 400 further comprises a pair of mounting tape extensions 450A, 450B that extend from the first longitudinal end 402 in a direction away from the second longitudinal end 404. Each one of the two mounting tape extensions 450A, 450B is contiguous with one or the other of the mounting tapes 450 at each lateral side of the strip panel element 400. Each tape extensions 450A, 450B includes a respective an outer longitudinal edge portion 456' including outer longitudinal edge 452', and an inner longitudinal edge portion 458' including inner longitudinal edge 454'. While in this example each respective outer edge 452' comprises a cord, in alternative variations of this example the cord can be omitted. Such cords are each configured for reinforcing the outer longitudinal edge portion 456', in particular the outer longitudinal edge 452', and in this example is in the form of a thread element, having a diameter thicker than the thickness of the respective tape 450'. Such a cord can be contiguous with the cord 451 of the respective mounting tape 450.

[0100] Each of mounting tape extensions 450A, 450B comprises a plurality of railengaging elements 460' affixed to the respective outer longitudinal edge 452', in longitudinal spaced relationship, similar to the rail-engaging elements 460 of the respective mounting tape 450. Thus, in at least this example, each rail-engaging element 460' is also formed as an integral article and comprises a respective engagement portion configured for being received in the first lumen 310 of the respective rail element 300A or 300B, in a similar manner to the respective mounting tape 450.

[0101] In operation of the system 100, the first lateral side 490A of the strip panel element 400 is movably coupled to the first rail 300A via the respective rail-engaging elements 460, while the second lateral side 490B of the strip panel element 400 is movably coupled to the second rail 300B via the respective rail-engaging elements 460.

[0102] Referring in particular to Fig. 9, the motor drive system 600 comprises, in at least this example, two pairs of drive motor arrangements 700, including a first pair 610 of drive motor arrangements 700 and a second said pair 620 of drive motor arrangements 700.

[0103] The mounting tape extensions 450A, 450B each extend from the first longitudinal end 402 by an extension length EL. The extension length EL is similar or greater in magnitude with the respective longitudinal dimension LO, and is sufficient to ensure that mounting tape extensions 450A, 450B are engaged with the second said pair 620 of drive motor arrangements 700 when the mounting tapes 450 are engaged with the first pair 610 of drive motor arrangements 700, as best seen in Fig. 3, to thereby ensure that the strip panel element 400 is fully engaged with all the motor arrangements 700 of the motor drive system 600 regardless of the position of the strip panel element 400 between the fully deployed position and the fully undeployed position. In the fully deployed position, the sheet 480 is fully superposed over the zone ZO, while in the fully undeployed position, no part of the sheet 480 is superposed over the zone ZO.

[0104] In at least this example, the first pair 610 of drive motor arrangements 700 is longitudinally spaced with respect to the second said pair 620 of drive motor arrangements 700. Furthermore, the first pair 610 of drive motor arrangements 700 is located at the first longitudinal end 110 of the system 100, and the second said pair 620 of drive motor arrangements 700 is located at the second longitudinal end 120 of the system 100.

[0105] The two drive motor arrangements 700 of the first pair 610 are mechanically uncoupled with respect to one another. In other words, there is no mechanical coupling arrangement, or any other physical coupling arrangement, for example a universal joint, shaft, or magnetic coupling arrangement, that operates to exert a turning force on one drive motor arrangement 700 of the first pair 610 by the other drive motor arrangement 700 of the first pair 610. Thus, the two drive motor arrangements 700 of the first pair 610 rotate independently of one another, and can rotate at different rotations speeds from one another. As will become clearer herein, operation of the drive motor arrangements 700 of the first pair 610, in particular the rotations speeds thereof, are controlled via the controller 500.

[0106] Referring also to Fig. 2, each one of the two drive motor arrangements 700 of the first pair 610 is associated with a different one of the first rail element 300A and the second real element 300B. Thus, a first drive motor arrangement 700 of the first pair 610, also designated herein with reference numeral 700A1, is associated with the first rail element 300A, and second drive motor arrangement 700 of the first pair 610, also designated herein with reference numeral 700B1, is associated with the second rail element 300B.

[0107] In at least this example, the first drive motor arrangement 700A1 is located at the respective first longitudinal end 302 of the first rail element 300A, and second drive motor arrangement 700B1 is located at the respective first longitudinal end 302 of the second rail element 300B.

[0108] In at least this example and in other examples, the first drive motor arrangement 700A1 and the second drive motor arrangement 700B1 are essentially similar mirror images of one another, or identical mirror images of one another, and thus shall also be collectively referred to as drive motor arrangement 700. However, in alternative variations of this example, and in other examples, the first drive motor arrangement 700A1 and second drive motor arrangement 700B1 can be different from one another.

[0109] Referring again to Fig. 9, each drive motor arrangement 700 of the first pair 610 has a respective turning axis RA. The first drive motor arrangement 700A1 has respective turning axis RAIA and the second drive motor arrangement 700B1 has respective turning axis RA1B

[0110] In at least this example, the turning axis RAIA and the turning axis RA1B of the first pair 610 of drive motor arrangements 700 are coaxial with respect to one another. However, in at least some alternative variations of this example, the turning axis RAIA and the turning axis RA1B of the first pair 610 of drive motor arrangements 700 can be non-coaxial with respect to one another, for example longitudinally offset with respect to one another. In any case, the turning axis RAIA and the turning axis RA1B of the first pair 610 of drive motor arrangements 700 are at least parallel with respect to one another.

[0111] In at least this example, the two drive motor arrangements 700 of the second pair 620 are mechanically uncoupled with respect to one another. In other words, there is no mechanical coupling arrangement, or any other physical coupling arrangement, for example a magnetic coupling arrangement, that operates to exert a turning force on one drive motor arrangement 700 of the second pair 620 by the other drive motor arrangement 700 of the second pair 620. Thus, the two drive motor arrangements 700 of the second pair 620 rotate independently of one another, and can rotate at different rotations speeds from one another. As will become clearer herein, operation of the drive motor arrangements 700 of the second pair 620, in particular the rotations speeds thereof, are controlled via the controller 500.

[0112] Referring again to Fig. 2, each one of the two drive motor arrangements 700 of the second pair 620 is associated with a different one of the first rail element 300A and the second real element 300B. Thus, a first drive motor arrangement 700 of the second pair 620, also designated herein with reference numeral 700A2, is associated with the first rail element 300A, and second drive motor arrangement 700 of the second pair 620, also designated herein with reference numeral 700B2, is associated with the second rail element 300B.

[0113] In at least this example, the first drive motor arrangement 700A2 is located at the respective second longitudinal end 304 of the first rail element 300A, and second drive motor arrangement 700B2 is located at the respective second longitudinal end 304 of the second rail element 300B.

[0114] In at least this example and in other examples, the first drive motor arrangement 700A2 and the second drive motor arrangement 700B2 of second pair 620 are essentially similar mirror images of one another, or identical mirror images of one another, and thus shall also be collectively referred to as drive motor arrangement 700. However, in alternative variations of this example, and in other examples, the first drive motor arrangement 700A2 and second drive motor arrangement 700B2 of the second pair 620 can be different from one another. Referring again to Fig. 9, each drive motor arrangement 700 of the second pair 620 has a respective turning axis RA. The first drive motor arrangement 700A2 has respective turning axis RA2A and the second drive motor arrangement 700B2 has respective turning axis RA2B.

[0115] In at least this example, the turning axis RA2A and the turning axis RA2B of the second pair 620 of drive motor arrangements 700 are coaxial with respect to one another. However, in at least some alternative variations of this example, the turning axis RA2A and the turning axis RA2B of the second pair 620 of drive motor arrangements 700 can be non-coaxial with respect to one another, for example longitudinally offset with respect to one another. In any case, the turning axis RA2A and the turning axis RA2B of the second pair 620 of drive motor arrangements 700 are at least parallel with respect to one another.

[0116] In at least this example, the turning axis RAIA and the turning axis RA1B of the first pair 610 of drive motor arrangements 700, and the turning axis RA2A and the turning axis RA2B of the second pair 620 of drive motor arrangements 700, are parallel with respect to one another.

[0117] Each motor arrangement 700 is configured for selectively engaging with and selectively transporting the respective mounting tape 450 on one or the other lateral sides 490A, 490B of the strip panel element 400, in a general longitudinal direction, between the first longitudinal end 110 and the second longitudinal end 120 of the system 100. In at least this example, each motor arrangement 700 is configured for selectively engaging with and selectively transporting the respective mounting tape 450 on one or the other lateral sides 490A, 490B of the strip panel element 400, in each of the two longitudinal directions: from the first longitudinal end 110 to the second longitudinal end 120 of the system 100, and alternately, from the second longitudinal end 120 to the first longitudinal end 110 of the system 100.

[0118] Referring to Fig. 10, each motor arrangement 700 comprises an electric motor unit 710, comprising an electric motor and an output shaft 715, the output shaft 715 being fixedly mounted to a drive drum 750. The output shaft 715 is coaxial with the respective turning axis RA of the motor arrangement 700. In at least this example, the output shaft 715 and the drive drum 750 turn together as a single unit about the turning axis RA when electrical power is provided to the electric motor unit 710.

[0119] In at least this example, the electric motor unit 710 is rated at a design rpm that is significantly higher than the nominal rotational speed of the dωrNive drum 750, and correspondingly comprises a suitable reduction gear (not shown) between the electric motor and the output shaft 715. However, in at least some alternative variations of this example, the electric motor can be a stepper motor, capable of providing an output rotational speed corresponding to the nominal rotational speed ω N of the drive drum 750. In yet at least some other alternative variations of this example, the electric motor can be a stepper motor, capable of providing an output rotational speed higher than the nominal rotational speed ω N of the drive drum 750, and having a suitable reduction gear between the electric motor and the output shaft.

[0120] The drive drum 750 is rotatably mounted within housing 760 via a bearing 770.

[0121] The housing 760 comprises a first housing part 762 including a recess 769 sized to accommodate therein the drive drum 750 and bearing 770, and a second housing part 764 that is configured for being affixed to the first housing part 762 to thereby secure the drive drum 750 within the recess 769. In at least this example, the motor unit 710 is externally mounted to the housing 760 via the first housing part 762.

[0122] The motor arrangement 700, in particular the respective drive drum 750, is configured for cooperating with a respective lateral side of the strip panel element 400 in a manner to induce a translation of the strip panel element 400 responsive to a rotation of motor arrangement 700, in particular of the drive drum 750.

[0123] For example, the drive drum 750 and the respective lateral side of the strip panel element 400 are configured for reversibly engaging with respect to one another such at to enable the respective lateral side of the strip panel element 400 to be displaced longitudinal with respect to the respective motor arrangement 700.

[0124] The drive drum 750 comprises a first cylindrical portion 753 having a plurality of indentations 751, equi-spaced circumferentially with respect to one another around the cylindrical perimeter 759 of the first cylindrical portion 753 of the drive drum 750. Each indentation 751 is complementarily shaped with respect to an engagement portion 465 of the rail-engaging elements 460 of the respective mounting tape 450 of the strip panel element 400. In at least this example, the indentations 751 are concave-shaped.

[0125] Thus, when one mounting tape 450 of the strip panel element 400 is engaged with the respective motor arrangement 700, the engagement portions 465 are serially engaged with a number of the indentations 761, and as the motor unit 710 turns the drive drum 750 about the respective turning axis RA, the mounting tape 450, and thus the respective lateral side of the strip panel element 400, is displaced longitudinally with respect to the motor arrangement 700.

[0126] However, in at least some other alternative variations of this example, the drive drum 750 and the respective lateral side of the strip panel element 400 can be configured in a different manner for reversibly engaging with respect to one another such at to enable the respective lateral side of the strip panel element 400 to be displaced longitudinal with respect to the respective motor arrangement 700. For example, each lateral side of the respective strip panel element can include a series of longitudinally adjacent holes, and the respective drum can a plurality of radial projections that engage and disengage with the holes as the motor is turned, thereby advancing the lateral side longitudinally.

[0127] Each motor arrangement 700 is further configured for configured for changing direction of motion of the respective lateral side, in particular of the respective mounting tape 450 on one or the other lateral sides 490A, 490B of the strip panel element 400, by an angle 0, as the respective lateral side, in particular of the respective mounting tape 450 is being transported with respect to the respective motor arrangement 700. In at least this example, such an angular change of direction 0 is nominally 90°, which enables the motor arrangement 700, together with the other motor arrangements 700, to transport the strip panel element 400 from a loading station LSI (Fig. 3) on the ground for example at the first end 110 (or alternatively at the second end 120) of the system 100 to thereby deploy the strip panel element 400 over the zone ZO in a deployed position, and for alternately uncovering the zone ZO by transporting the strip panel element 400 to a second loading station LS2 on the ground at for example at the second end 120 (or alternatively at the first end 110, respectively) of the system 100, as will become clearer herein. Referring again to Fig. 10, and for the purpose or providing the angular change of direction 0, the respective housing 762 of each comprises a channel system 780.

[0128] The channel system 780 is configured for facilitating cooperation of the respective lateral side of the strip panel element 400 with the respective motor arrangement 700, in operation of the system 100.

[0129] The channel system 780 comprises a first channel portion 782, a second channel portion 784 and a turning channel portion 785 in open communication with one another. The first channel portion 782 and the second channel portion 784 are angularly displaced with respect to one another by angle 0.

[0130] Referring also to Fig. 11 and Fig. 12, the first channel portion 782, the turning channel portion 785, and the second channel portion 784 are contiguous, and include respective lateral open sides which together define a contiguous lateral slot 789A. The lateral slot 789A faces the strip panel element 400 in operation of the system 100.

[0131] The lateral slot 789A has a slot width SW which is correlated to the thickness of the strip panel element 400, particularly at or near the respective mounting tape 450. In particular, the slot width SW is slightly greater, for example up to 50% greater, than the aforesaid thickness of the strip panel element 400, such as to enable the respective lateral side of the strip panel element 400, including the respective mounting tape 450 to pass through the slot 789A in operation of the system 100.

[0132] At the same time, the slot width SW is less than the maximum cross-sectional dimension NG of the engagement portion 465 of the rail-engaging elements 460 of the respective mounting tape 450, thereby preventing the strip panel element 400 from being lateral removed from the respective motor arrangement 700 via the slot 789A.

[0133] The first channel portion 782, the turning channel portion 785, and the second channel portion 784 together define an internal lumen 787A, in open communication with the slot 789A, and having a cross-sectional area sufficient for accommodating the engagement portion 465 of the rail-engaging elements 460 of the respective mounting tape 450. The channel system 780 further includes a first longitudinal open end 781 provided at the first channel portion 782, and a second longitudinal open end 783 provided at the second channel portion 784. The first longitudinal open end 781 and the second longitudinal open end 783 are sized to enable the engagement portion 465 of the railengaging elements 460 of the respective mounting tape 450 to be passed between the internal lumen 787A of the housing 760 and an outside of the housing 760.

[0134] Referring again to Fig. 10, in at least this example, the housing 760 includes a housing plate 763 that is mounted to the first housing part 762 to thereby define the first channel portion 782 and part of the turning channel portion 785. In at least some alternative variations of this example, the housing plate can be integrally formed with the first housing part.

[0135] Referring again to Fig. 2:

[0136] - the first longitudinal open end 781 of motor arrangement 700A1 is aligned with, and spaced by a first spacing SP1 from, the respective first end 302 of rail element 300A;

[0137] - the first longitudinal open end 781 of motor arrangement 700B1 is aligned with, and spaced by a second spacing SP2 from, the respective first end 302 of rail element 300B;

[0138] - the first longitudinal open end 781 of motor arrangement 700A2 is aligned with, and spaced by a third spacing SP3 from, the respective second end 304 of rail element 300A; and

[0139] - the first longitudinal open end 781 of motor arrangement 700B2 is aligned with, and spaced by a fourth spacing SP4 from, the respective second end 304 of rail element 300B.

[0140] Referring again to Figs. 10, 11 and 12, each motor arrangement 700 further comprises a rotational speed sensor system 800, configured for enabling determination of the rotational speed of the drive drum 750. At least in operation of the system 100, the rotational speed sensor system 800 is operationally coupled to the controller 500.

[0141] In at least this example, the rotational speed sensor system 800 operates to provide an output signal SI that is representative of the rotational speed to of the respective drive drum 750. In at least this example the signal is transmitted to the controller 500 via suitable lines 510 (Fig. 9).

[0142] The controller 500 is configured to determine the rotational speed co, or alternative a suitable parameter indicative of the rotational speed, of the drive drum 750 of each motor arrangement 700, in real time, based on the output signal SI.

[0143] Furthermore, and referring to Fig. 13, at least in examples in which the diameter of the drive drum 750 can be different between the various motor arrangements 700, the controller 500 is further configured to determine linear speed V at the perimeter 759 of the drive drum 750 (or to determine a parameter indicative of the linear speed), for example using the formula:

[0144] V = r * co wherein "r" is the radius of the drive drum 750.

[0145] In at least this example, the rotational speed sensor system 800 can include any suitable tachometer, for example any suitable electronic tachometer. Referring again to Fig. 10, in at least this example, the drive drum 750 comprises a second cylindrical portion 757, axially aligned with the first cylindrical portion 753, and the rotational speed sensor system 800 comprises a proximity sensor 820 that cooperates with second cylindrical portion 757 to provide an output signal SI that is indicative of the rotations speed of the drive drum 750.

[0146] Referring also to Fig. 12, the sensor 820 includes a sensing end 825 facing the drive drum 750, in particular the second cylindrical portion 757, in a radial direction with respect to the turning axis RA.

[0147] The second cylindrical portion 757 comprises a plurality of circumferentially equi-spaced recesses 758, circumferentially intercalated by respective raised portions 756. While in at least this example the second cylindrical portion 757 has four such circumferentially equi-spaced raised portions 756, in at least some alternative variations of this example, the respective second cylindrical portion can have more than four, or less than four, such circumferentially equi-spaced raised portions. The recesses 758 are spaced from the sensing end 825. by a spacing greater than the nominal range of the sensor 820, while the raised portions 756 are spaced from the sensing end 825.by a spacing within the nominal range of the sensor 820.

[0148] Thus, as the motor unit 710 turns the drive drum 750, and each raised portion 756 passes by the sending end 825 of the sensor 820, the raised portion 756 is detected by the sensor 820, and a corresponding signal SI is generated by the sensor 820, for example in the form of a signal spike or pulse, which is also referred to herein as a "beep". In every complete turn of the drive drum 750, four "beeps" are generated, corresponding to the number of raised portions 756 that pass in proximity to the sensing end 825 in one cycle. Thus, the number of "beeps" generated per minute indicates the rotational speed co of the drive drum 750, and for example via suitable calibration the controller 500 can then determine the actual rotational speed ω for example from the frequency of the signal SI, and optionally also determine the linear speed V. In any case, the controller 500 can also determine the cumulative linear displacement LD associated with each drive drum at any time "t" after commencing a deployment or undeployment of the system 100 for each rotor system 700 using the formula:

[0149] LD = V * t

[0150] Alternatively, and in at least this example, the controller 500 can also determine a parameter PRi for each rotor arrangement 700, that is indicative of the respective cumulative linear displacement LD provided to the portion of the respective lateral side of the strip panel element 400 by the respective rotor arrangement 700. For example, the total number of "beeps" or pulses generated at each motor arrangement 700 at time "t" after said commencement provides an indication of the cumulative linear displacement LD at time "t", and thus the total number of "beeps" generated at each motor arrangement 700 can be determined by the controller 500 and utilized by the controller as the respective parameter PRi for each rotor arrangement 700.

[0151] In any case, such proximity sensors are well known in the art of rpm determination for a motor.

[0152] In at least some alternative variations of this example, the rotational speed sensor system 800 can instead include any other suitable sensor system for providing an output signal that is indicative of the rotational speed of the respective drive drum 750, for example using optical sensors (which for example can operate to detect interruptions in a light beam caused by rotation of the drive drum) or other suitable tachometer, for example. In at least some other alternative variations of this example, the rotational speed sensor system 800 can instead include any other suitable sensor system for providing an output signal that is indicative of the rotational speed of the respective drive drum, for example using magnetic sensor and one or more magnets (circumferentially affixed to the drive drum.

[0153] Referring again to Fig. 9, the controller 500 is also operatively connected to each of the rotor arrangements 700 via respective actuation lines 520. Each actuation line 520 operates to transmit a suitable actuation signal AS from the controller 500 to the respective motor arrangement 700 to thereby cause the respective motor unit 710 to turn the respective drive drum 750. Furthermore, the actuation signal AS generated by the controller 500 for each motor arrangement 700 is such as to cause the respective drive drum 750 to turn at a corresponding rotational speed ω as determined by the controller 500. The rotational speed ro of each motor arrangement 700 can be varied in real time by the controller 500, by suitably varying the respective actuation signal AS, and furthermore the rotational speed co of each motor arrangement 700 can be controlled by the controller 500 independently of the other motor arrangements 700. Thus the controller 500 can generate suitable actuation signals AS to each of the motor arrangements 700 to thereby cause each of the motor arrangements 700 to turn at different rotational speeds Cω from one another, as determined by the controller 500.

[0154] For example, each actuation signal AS can be the electrical power supplied to the respective motor arrangement 700 via the controller 500, the electrical power having a corresponding magnitude as required for providing the required rotational speed ω to the respective motor arrangement 700, as determined by the controller 500.

[0155] Thus, and referring again to Fig. 2, the strip panel element 400 is mounted to the first pair 610 of motor arrangements 700, such that the respective engagement portion 465 of the rail-engaging elements 460 of the mounting tapes 450 at a first longitudinal end 402 of the respective mounting tape 450 are engaged with the indentations 751 of the respective drive drums 750 of motor arrangement 700A1 and of motor arrangement 700B1. For this purpose, the respective rail-engaging elements 460 are inserted through the respective channel systems 780 of motor arrangement 700A1 and of motor arrangement 700B1 via the respective second open ends 783.

[0156] Furthermore, the mounting tape extensions 450A, 450B are engaged with the first rail element 300A and the second rail element 300B, respectively, via the respective railengaging elements 460'. The strip panel element 400 is also mounted to the second pair 620 of motor arrangements 700, such that the respective rail-engaging elements 460' of the respective mounting tape extensions 450A, 450B are engaged with the indentations 751 of the respective drive drums 750 of motor arrangement 700A2 and of motor arrangement 700B2. For this purpose, the respective rail-engaging elements 460' are inserted through the respective channel systems 780 of motor arrangement 700A2 and of motor arrangement 700B2 via the respective second open ends 783.

[0157] When it is desired for the zone ZO to be covered, the strip panel element 400 is transported to the deployed position from the undeployed position responsive to the controller 500 transmitting a suitable actuation signal AS via actuation lines 520 to the motor units 710 of motor arrangement 700A1 and of motor arrangement 700B1, and to the motor units 710 of motor arrangement 700A2 and of motor arrangement 700B2, to thereby cause the motor arrangements 700A1 and 700B1, and the motor arrangements 700A2 and 700B2, to turn in the corresponding (same) rotational direction required to enable advancing the strip panel element 400 (in particular the sheet 480) towards the corresponding second longitudinal end 120. The respective rail-engaging elements 460' and rail-engaging elements 460 of the first lateral side 490A of the strip panel element 400 are moved longitudinally with respect to the first rail 300A, and respective railengaging elements 460' and rail-engaging elements 460 of the second lateral side 490B of the strip panel element 400 are moved longitudinally with respect to the second rail 300B

[0158] Similarly, when is desired for the zone ZO to be uncovered, the strip panel element 400 is transported from the deployed position to the undeployed position responsive to the controller 500 transmitting a suitable actuation signal AS to the motor units 710 of the motor arrangement 700A1 and of the motor arrangement 700B1, and to the motor units 710 of the motor arrangement 700 A2 and of the motor arrangement 700B2, to turn in the corresponding opposite rotational direction to thereby advance the strip panel element 400 (in particular the sheet 480) towards the first longitudinal end 110

[0159] It is to be noted that in view of the non-rigid nature of the mounting tape extensions 450A, 450B and of the mounting tapes 450, the motor arrangements 700 operate to induce a pulling force on the strip panel element 400 as this is transported from the undeployed position to the deployed position, or from the deployed position to the undeployed position.

[0160] According to an aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, the controller 500 is configured for controlling the rotational speed ω of each of the rotor arrangements 700, independently from one another, according to predetermined criteria.

[0161] In at least this example, and referring again to Fig. 2, the aforesaid predetermined criteria include effectively controlling a first linear speed VA of the first lateral side 490A of the strip panel element 400 with respect to a second linear speed VB of the second lateral side 490B of the strip panel element 400, as the strip panel element 400 is advanced towards the first longitudinal end 110 of the system 100, or as the strip panel element 400 is advanced towards the second longitudinal end 120 of the system 100, such as to match the accumulated displacement DPA of the first lateral side 490A with respect to the accumulated displacement DPB of the second lateral side 490B.

[0162] Thus, according to this aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, the controller 500 is configured for controlling each of the rotor arrangements 700, independently from one another, such as to match the accumulated displacement DPA of the first lateral side 490A with respect to the accumulated displacement DPB of the second lateral side 490B.

[0163] In particular, the controller 500 is configured for effectively controlling the first linear speed VA of the first lateral side 490A of the strip panel element 400 with respect to the second linear speed VB of the second lateral side 490B of the strip panel element 400, at the first pair 610, at the second pair 620, and between the first pair 610 and the second pair 620, as will become clearer herein. Since in at least this example the diameter of the drive drums are all the same, the controller 500 only needs to monitor the rotational speed co of each of the four motor arrangements 700A1, 700B1, 700A2, 700B2, and in particular the respective accumulated linear displacements at each of the four motor arrangements 700A1, 700B1, 700A2, 700B2, via the respective "beeps" generated thereby.

[0164] Without being bound to theory, inventors consider that, as the strip panel element 400 is longitudinally advanced by the motor drive system 600, the first linear speed VA of the first lateral side 490A can at times increase or decrease as compared with the second linear speed VB of the second lateral side 490B, which in turn results in a corresponding disparity between accumulated displacement DPA and accumulated displacement DPB of the two lateral sides. Such a disparity can occur between the two motor arrangements 700A1, 700B1 of the first pair 610, and / or between the two motor arrangements 700A2, 700B2 of the second pair 620, and / or between the two motor arrangements 700A1, 700A2 on one lateral side of the system 100, and / or between the two motor arrangements 700B1, 700B2 on the other lateral side of the system 100.

[0165] In such cases, if the motor arrangements 700 of the first pair 610 were to be mechanically coupled to one another such as to be constrained mechanically to turn about a common turning axis as a single unit, or if the motor arrangements 700 of the second pair 620 were mechanically coupled to one another such as to be constrained mechanically to turn about a common turning axis as a single unit, the strip panel element 400 could become mis-aligned longitudinally. This could lead to the strip panel element 400 being subjected to significant lateral forces, and impair the smooth movement of the strip panel element 400 with respect to the first rail element 300A and the second rail element 300B, or could damage the strip panel element. Such differences between first linear speed VA and the second linear speed VB can arise from a number of reasons, including for example external factors such as for example differences in friction between each respective drive drum and rail-engaging elements 460 or rail-engaging elements 460', and / or dirt or other particles becoming interposed between each respective drive drum and rail-engaging elements 460 or rail-engaging elements 460', and so on. According to this aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, the controller 500 operates to monitor the respective rotational speeds <BAI, CωBI, ω A2, ω B2, of the four motor arrangements 700A1, 700B1, 700A2, 700B2, respectively.

[0166] Concurrently, the controller 500 can also operate such that the four motor arrangements 700A1, 700B1, 700A2, 700B2 operate at a nominal rotational speed ω N, i.e., wherein the respective drive drums 750 are rotated at the nominal rotational speed ω N-

[0167] In particular, the controller 500 operates to determine in real time the respective accumulated displacements DPAI, DPBI, DPA2, DPB2of the strip panel element 400 at each of the four motor arrangements 700A1, 700B1, 700A2, 700B2, respectively. For example, this can be done by the controller 500 keeping a count of the number of pulses or "beeps" received from each of the four motor arrangements 700A1, 700B1, 700A2, 700B2, and comparing the counts with one another.

[0168] In particular, the controller 500 operates to determine the displacement differences between the respective accumulated displacements DPAI, DPBI, DPA2, DPB2 of the strip panel element 400 at each of the four motor arrangements 700A1, 700B1, 700A2, 700B2, respectively, at suitable time intervals At after commencement of the deployment or undeployment of the strip panel element 400, according to the following steps:

[0169] Step 910 - a first displacement difference DPAIBI is determined by the difference between the respective accumulated displacements DPAI, DPBI at the two motor arrangements 700A1, 700B1 of the first pair 610, i.e., DPAIBI = DPAI- DPBI;

[0170] Step 920 - a second displacement difference DPA2B2 is determined by the difference between the respective accumulated displacements DPA2, DPB2 at the two motor arrangements 700 A2, 700B2 of the second pair 620, i.e., DPA2B2 = DPA2 - DPB2;

[0171] Step 930 - a third displacement difference DPAIA2is determined by the difference between the respective accumulated displacements DPAI, DPA2 at the two motor arrangements 700A1, 700A2 of one lateral side of the system 100, i.e., DPAIA2= DPAI- DPA2; Step 930 - a fourth displacement difference DPBIBI is determined by the difference between the respective accumulated displacements DPBI, DPB2 at the two motor arrangements 700B1, 700B2 of the other lateral side of the system 100, i.e., DPBIB2=DPBI - DPB2.

[0172] Each one of the four displacement differences DPAIBI, DPA2B2, DPAIA, DPBIB2 can be positive or negative, and when referring herein to the four displacement differences DPAIBI, DPA2B2, DPAIA, DPBIB2, the absolute value of the respective displacement difference is meant, i.e., ignoring whether the magnitude of the respective displacement difference is positive or negative.

[0173] If the controller 500 determines that any one or more of the four displacement differences DPAIBI, DPA2B2, DPAIA, DPBIB2 exceeds a respective first threshold THi, second threshold TH2, third threshold TH3, fourth threshold TH4, respectively, the controller 500 operates to control the rotational speed of one or more of the four motor arrangements 700A1, 700B1, 700A2, 700B2, to thereby bring all of the four displacement differences DPAIBI, DPA2B2, DPAIA, DPBIB2 to below the respective thresholds THi, TH2, TH3, TH4

[0174] For example, such time intervals At can be related to the nominal rotational speed ω N. For example, the higher the nominal rotational speed ω N, the smaller the magnitude of the time interval At; conversely, the lower the nominal rotational speed ω N, the greater the magnitude of the time interval At. the time intervals At can be uniform, or can vary in magnitude with respect to one another. For example, such time intervals At can be in the range 0.10 seconds to 2 seconds.

[0175] The magnitudes of each one of the first threshold THi, second threshold TH2, third threshold TH3, fourth threshold TH4, are generally small enough such as to enable the displacement differences DPAIBI, DPA2B2, DPAIA2, DPBIB2 to be adjusted relatively quickly and maintain the strip panel element 400 properly aligned, and at the same time generally large enough such that the four motor arrangements 700A1, 700B1, 700A2, 700B2, are not required to change their rotational speed too quickly or too often and thus reduce potential fatigue as well as wear and tear. The magnitudes of each one of the first threshold THi, second threshold TH2, third threshold TH3, fourth threshold TH4, can be the same as one another, or different from one another.

[0176] For example, the magnitudes of the first threshold THi and of the second threshold TH2 can each depend on the magnitude of the first transverse spacing Tl. For example, the larger the first transverse spacing Tl, the larger the magnitude of each one of the first threshold THi and of the second threshold TH2 can be; conversely, the smaller the first transverse spacing Tl, the smaller the magnitude of each one of the first threshold THi and of the second threshold TH2 can be.

[0177] For example, the magnitudes of the third threshold TH3 and of fourth threshold TH4 can each depend on the magnitude of the first longitudinal dimension LI. For example, the larger the magnitude of each one of the third threshold TH3 and the fourth threshold TH4 can be; conversely, the smaller the first longitudinal spacing LI, the smaller the magnitude of each one of the third threshold TH3 and the fourth threshold TH4can be.

[0178] For example, the first threshold THi and the second threshold TH2 can have the same magnitude with respect to one another, and / or, the third threshold TH3 and fourth threshold TH4 can have the same magnitude with respect to one another.

[0179] In any case, and referring to Fig. 9 and Fig. 17, a method of operating the system 100 according to a first example, generally designated with reference numeral 1000, comprises the following steps:

[0180] Step 1100 - at a first time interval At from commencement, determine each of the first displacement difference DPAIBI, the second displacement difference DPAIBI, the third displacement difference DPAIA, and the fourth displacement difference DPBIB2;

[0181] Step 1200 - determine whether the magnitude of the first displacement difference DPAIBI is within the first threshold THi - if yes, continue to step 1300; if no adjust the rotational speed of the motor arrangement 700A1 and / or of the motor arrangement 700B1 such as to bring the first displacement difference DPAIBI to not greater than the first threshold THi within a predetermined time period tl, and thereafter proceed with step 1300;

[0182] Step 1300 - determine whether the magnitude of the second displacement difference DPAIBI is within the second threshold TH2 - if yes, continue to step 1400; if no adjust the rotational speed of the motor arrangement 700 A2 and / or of the motor arrangement 700B2 such as to bring the second displacement difference DPA2B2 to not greater than the second threshold TH2 within a predetermined time period t2, and thereafter proceed with step 1400;

[0183] Step 1400 - determine whether the magnitude of the third displacement difference DPA1A2 is within the third threshold TH3 - if yes, continue to step 1500; if no adjust the rotational speed of the motor arrangement 700A1 and / or of the motor arrangement 700A2 such as to bring the third displacement difference DPAIA2to not greater than the third threshold TH3 within a predetermined time period t3, and thereafter proceed with step 1500;

[0184] Step 1500 - determine whether the magnitude of the fourth displacement difference DPBIB2 is within the fourth threshold TH4 - if yes, continue to step 1600; if no adjust the rotational speed of the motor arrangement 700B1 and / or of the motor arrangement 700B2 such as to bring the fourth displacement difference DPBIB2 to not greater than the fourth threshold TH4 within a predetermined time period t4, and thereafter proceed with step 1600;

[0185] Step 1600 - has the strip panel member 400 been fully deployed / fully undeployed? If yes, the four motor arrangements 700A1, 700B1, 700A2, 700B2 are switched off; if no, at a next time interval At after the preceding time interval At, determine each of the first displacement difference DPAIBI, the second displacement difference DPA2B2, the third displacement difference DPAIA, and the fourth displacement difference DPBIB2, and then proceed with step 1700;

[0186] Step 1700 - repeat steps 1200 to 1600 until in step 1600 the strip panel member 400 has been fully deployed / fully undeployed.

[0187] When using the method 1000 for deployment the four motor arrangements 700 are rotated in one rotation direction, while when using the method 1000 for undeployment the four motor arrangements 700 are rotated in in the opposite rotation direction.

[0188] In step 1100, when it is desired to operate the system to deploy or undeploy the strip panel member 400, the four motor arrangements are caused to turn in the appropriate direction via the controller 500, and each of the respective sensor systems continuously provide respective output signals SI corresponding to the pulses or "beeps" generated as the respective drive drums rotate. The controller 500 keeps count of the pulses or "beeps" from each rotor arrangement 700, which, at the end of the first time interval At, indicates the respective accumulated displacements DPAI, DPBI, DPA2, DPB2 of the strip panel element 400 at each of the four motor arrangements 700A1, 700B1, 700A2, 700B2, respectively at this time. The controller 500 then applies steps 910, 920, 930, 940 to the respective accumulated displacements DPAI, DPBI, DPA2, DPB2 thus determined to provide the respective first displacement difference DPAIBI, the second displacement difference DPA2B2, the third displacement difference DPAIA, and the fourth displacement difference DPBIB2.

[0189] It is to be noted that steps 1200 to 1500 can be executed concurrently, or sequentially in any order.

[0190] In step 1200, if the absolute value of the first displacement difference DPAIBI is not within the first threshold THi the controller 500 determines how the rotational speed co AI of the motor arrangement 700A1 and / or how the rotational speed ω BI of the motor arrangement 700B1 is to be adjusted such as to bring the first displacement difference DPAIBI to not greater than the first threshold THi within a predetermined time period tl. If the first displacement difference DPAIBI is positive, this is indicative that the accumulated displacement DPAIis greater than the accumulated displacement DPBI. One of the following steps 1210, 1220, 1230 is then executed:

[0191] Step 1210 - the controller 500 can then generate and transmit an appropriate actuation signal ASAI to motor arrangement 700A1 to decrease the rotational speed (ωAI thereof until the first displacement difference DPAIBI once again is at or below the first threshold THi.

[0192] Step 1220 - the controller 500 can generate and transmit an appropriate actuation signal ASBI to motor arrangements 700B1 to increase the rotational speed OωBI thereof until the first displacement difference DPAIBI once again is at or below the first threshold THi.

[0193] Step 1230 - the controller 500 can generate and transmit appropriate actuation signals ASAI and ASBI to motor arrangements 700A1 and 700B1, respectively to concurrently or sequentially decrease the rotational speed (ωAI of motor arrangement 700A1, and to increase the rotational speed CωBI of motor arrangement 700B1, until the first displacement difference DPAIBI once again is at or below the first threshold THi.

[0194] On the other hand, if the first displacement difference DPAIBI is negative, this is indicative that the accumulated displacements DPAIis less than the accumulated displacement DPBI., and steps 1210, 1220, 1230 are modified and executed as follows:

[0195] Step 1210 - the controller 500 can then generate and transmit an appropriate actuation signal ASAI to motor arrangement 700A1 to increase the rotational speed (ωAI thereof until the first displacement difference DPAIBI once again is at or below the first threshold THi.

[0196] Step 1220 - the controller 500 can generate and transmit an appropriate actuation signal ASBI to motor arrangements 700B1 to decrease the rotational speed (ωBI thereof until the first displacement difference DPAIBI once again is at or below the first threshold THi. Step 1230 - the controller 500 can generate and transmit appropriate actuation signals ASAI and ASBI to motor arrangements 700A1 and 700B1, respectively to concurrently or sequentially increase the rotational speed co AI of motor arrangement 700A1, and to decrease the rotational speed CωBI of motor arrangement 700B1, until the first displacement difference DPAIBI once again is at or below the first threshold THi.

[0197] Whether the first displacement difference DPAIBI is positive or negative, the choice of which one of the respective steps 1210, 1220, 1230 to take can depend on a number of different factors, for example, the absolute value and sign of the second displacement difference DPAIBI, and / or the absolute value and sign of each one of the third displacement difference DPAIA2and the fourth displacement difference DPBIB2.

[0198] The first time period tl is typically less than the magnitude of the next time interval At. In examples in which steps 1200 to 1500 are executed sequentially, the first time period tl is typically less than 25% of the magnitude of the next time interval At.

[0199] Step 1300 is similar to step 1200.

[0200] In step 1300, if the absolute value of the second displacement difference DPA2B2 is not within the second threshold TH2 the controller 500 determines how the rotational speed CωA2 of the motor arrangement 700A2 and / or how the rotational speed CωB2 of the motor arrangement 700B2 is to be adjusted such as to bring the second displacement difference DPA2B2 to not greater than the second threshold TH2 within a predetermined second time period t2.

[0201] If the second displacement difference DPA2B2 is positive, this is indicative that the accumulated displacements DPA2 is greater than the accumulated displacement DPB2. One of the following steps 1310, 1320, 1330 is then executed:

[0202] Step 1310 - the controller 500 can then generate and transmit an appropriate actuation signal ASA2 to motor arrangement 700A2 to decrease the rotational speed CωA2 thereof until the second displacement difference DPA2B2 once again is at or below the second threshold TH2. Step 1320 - the controller 500 can generate and transmit an appropriate actuation signal ASB2 to motor arrangements 700B2 to increase the rotational speed ω B2 thereof until the second displacement difference DPA2B2 once again is at or below the first threshold TH2.

[0203] Step 1330 - the controller 500 can generate and transmit appropriate actuation signals ASA2 and ASB2 to motor arrangements 700 A2 and 700B2, respectively to concurrently or sequentially decrease the rotational speed ω A2 of motor arrangement 700A2, and to increase the rotational speed ω B2 of motor arrangement 700B2, until the second displacement difference DPA2B2 once again is at or below the second threshold TH2.

[0204] On the other hand, if the second displacement difference DPA2B2 is negative, this is indicative that the accumulated displacements DPA2 is less than the accumulated displacement DPB2, and steps 1310, 1320, 1330 are modified and executed as follows:

[0205] Step 1310 - the controller 500 can then generate and transmit an appropriate actuation signal ASA2 to motor arrangement 700A2 to increase the rotational speed ω A2 thereof until the second displacement difference DPA2B2 once again is at or below the second threshold TH2.

[0206] Step 1320 - the controller 500 can generate and transmit an appropriate actuation signal ASB2 to motor arrangements 700B2 to decrease the rotational speed ω B2 thereof until the second displacement difference DPA2B2 once again is at or below the second threshold TH2.

[0207] Step 1330 - the controller 500 can generate and transmit appropriate actuation signals ASA2 and ASB2 to motor arrangements 700 A2 and 700B2, respectively to concurrently or sequentially increase the rotational speed ω A2 of motor arrangement 700A2, and to decrease the rotational speed <ω B2 of motor arrangement 700B2, until the second displacement difference DPA2B2 once again is at or below the second threshold TH2.

[0208] Whether the second displacement difference DPA2B2 is positive or negative, the choice of which one of the respective steps 1310, 1320, 1330 to take can depend on a number of different factors, for example, the absolute value and sign of the first displacement difference DPAIBI, and / or the absolute value and sign of each one of the third displacement difference DPAIAI and the fourth displacement difference DPBIBI.

[0209] The second time period t2 is typically less than the magnitude of the next time interval At. In examples in which steps 1200 to 1500 are executed sequentially, the second time period t2 is typically less than 25% of the magnitude of the next time interval At.

[0210] In step 1400, if the absolute value of the third displacement difference DPAIA2is within the third threshold TH3, the controller 500 determines how the rotational speed co AI of the motor arrangement 700A1 and / or how the rotational speed ω 2 of the motor arrangement 700A2 is to be adjusted such as to bring the third displacement difference DPA1A2 to not greater than the third threshold TH3 within the predetermined third time period t3

[0211] If the third displacement difference DPAIA2is positive, this is indicative that the accumulated displacements DPAIis greater than the accumulated displacement DPA2, and, the system 100 is being used for deployment, to thereby transport the strip panel element 400 from the first end 110 to the second end 120, one of the following steps 1410, 1420, 1430 is then executed. Similarly, if the third displacement difference DPAIA2is negative (indicative that the accumulated displacements DPAIis less than the accumulated displacement DPA2), and, the system 100 is being used for undeployment, to thereby transport the strip panel element 400 from the second end 120 to the first end 110, one of the following steps 1410, 1420, 1430 is then executed.

[0212] Step 1410 - the controller 500 can then generate and transmit an appropriate actuation signal ASAI to motor arrangement 700A1 to decrease the rotational speed ω AI thereof until the third displacement difference DPA1A2 once again is at or below the third threshold TH3.

[0213] Step 1420 - the controller 500 can generate and transmit an appropriate actuation signal ASA2 to motor arrangements 700A2 to increase the rotational speed ωA2 thereof until the third displacement difference DPAIA2once again is at or below the third threshold TH3. Step 1430 - the controller 500 can generate and transmit appropriate actuation signals ASAI and ASA2 to motor arrangements 700A1 and 700A2, respectively to concurrently or sequentially decrease the rotational speed WAI of motor arrangement 700A1, and to increase the rotational speed (ωA2 of motor arrangement 700A2, until the third displacement difference DPAIA2once again is at or below the third threshold TH3.

[0214] On the other hand, if the third displacement difference DPAIA2is negative (indicative that the accumulated displacements DPAIis less than the accumulated displacement DPA2, and, the system 100 is being used for deployment, to thereby transport the strip panel element 400 from the first end 110 to the second end 120, the steps 1410, 1420, 1430 are modified and one of them is then executed, as follows. Similarly, if the third displacement difference DPAIA2is positive (indicative that the accumulated displacements DPAIis greater than the accumulated displacement DPA2), and, the system 100 is being used for undeployment, to thereby transport the strip panel element 400 from the second end 120 to the first end 110, the steps 1410, 1420, 1430 are modified and one of them is then executed, as follows.

[0215] Step 1410 - the controller 500 can then generate and transmit an appropriate actuation signal ASAI to motor arrangement 700A1 to increase the rotational speed CωAI thereof until the third displacement difference DPA1A2 once again is at or below the third threshold TH3.

[0216] Step 1420 - the controller 500 can generate and transmit an appropriate actuation signal ASA2 to motor arrangements 700A2 to decrease the rotational speed OJA2 thereof until the third displacement difference DPAIA2once again is at or below the third threshold TH3.

[0217] Step 1430 - the controller 500 can generate and transmit appropriate actuation signals ASAI and ASA2 to motor arrangements 700A1 and 700A2, respectively to concurrently or sequentially increase the rotational speed CωAI of motor arrangement 700A1, and to decrease the rotational speed (ωA2 of motor arrangement 700A2, until the third displacement difference DPAIA2once again is at or below the third threshold TH3. Whether the third displacement difference DPAIAI is positive or negative, and whether the strip panel element 400 is being deployed or undeployed, the choice of which one of the respective steps 1410, 1420, 1430 to take can depend on a number of different factors, for example, the absolute value and sign of the first displacement difference DPAIBI, and / or the absolute value and sign of the second displacement difference DPAIBI, and / or the absolute value and sign of the fourth displacement difference DPBIB2.

[0218] In particular, in examples in which the system 100 is being used for deployment, to thereby transport the strip panel element 400 from the first end 110 to the second end 120, the third threshold TH3 is such as to ensure that the accumulated displacement DPA2 is never less than the accumulated displacement DPAI, to thereby prevent movement of the strip panel element 400 exerting a pulling force at the drive drums of the motor arrangement 700A1 that could damage the same. Similarly, in examples in which the system 100 is being used for undeployment, to thereby transport the strip panel element 400 from the second end 110 to the first end 110, the third threshold TH3 is such as to ensure that the accumulated displacement DPAIis never less than the accumulated displacement DPA2, to thereby prevent movement of the strip panel element 400 exerting a pulling force at the drive drums of the motor arrangement 700A2 that could damage the same.

[0219] Thus in general, in examples in which the system 100 is being used for deployment, to thereby transport the strip panel element 400 from the first end 110 to the second end 120, or in which the system 100 is being used for undeployment, to thereby transport the strip panel element 400 from the second end 120 to the first end 110, the relative rotational speeds of the motor arrangements 700A1, 700A2 are such as to enable slack to be provided in the strip panel element 400 between the first pair 610 and the second pair 620. Such slack can be accommodated, for example, in spacing SP1 and / or spacing SP3 (Fig. 2).

[0220] The third time period t3 is typically less than the magnitude of the next time interval At. In examples in which steps 1200 to 1500 are executed sequentially, the third time period t3 is typically less than 25% of the magnitude of the next time interval At.

[0221] Step 1500 is similar to step 1400. In step 1500, if the absolute value of the fourth displacement difference DPBIBI is within the fourth threshold TH4, the controller 500 determines how the rotational speed ω BI of the motor arrangement 700B1 and / or how the rotational speed ω B2 of the motor arrangement 700B2 is to be adjusted such as to bring the fourth displacement difference DPBIB2 to not greater than the fourth threshold TH4 within the predetermined fourth time period t4.

[0222] If the fourth displacement difference DPBIB2 is positive, this is indicative that the accumulated displacements DPBI is greater than the accumulated displacement DPB2, and, the system 100 is being used for deployment, to thereby transport the strip panel element 400 from the first end 110 to the second end 120, one of the following steps 1510, 1520, 1530 is then executed. Similarly, if the fourth displacement difference DPBIB2 is negative (indicative that the accumulated displacements DPBI is less than the accumulated displacement DPB2), and, the system 100 is being used for undeployment, to thereby transport the strip panel element 400 from the second end 120 to the first end no, one of the following steps 1510, 1520, 1530 is then executed.

[0223] Step 1510 - the controller 500 can then generate and transmit an appropriate actuation signal ASBI to motor arrangement 700B1 to decrease the rotational speed ω BI thereof until the fourth displacement difference DPB1B2 once again is at or below the fourth threshold TH4.

[0224] Step 1520 - the controller 500 can generate and transmit an appropriate actuation signal ASB2 to motor arrangements 700B2 to increase the rotational speed ω B2 thereof until the fourth displacement difference DPBIB2 once again is at or below the fourth threshold TH4.

[0225] Step 1530 - the controller 500 can generate and transmit appropriate actuation signals ASBI and ASB2 to motor arrangements 700B1 and 700B2, respectively to concurrently or sequentially decrease the rotational speed ω BI of motor arrangement 700B1, and to increase the rotational speed ω B2 of motor arrangement 700B2, until the fourth displacement difference DPBIB2 once again is at or below the fourth threshold TH4. On the other hand, if the fourth displacement difference DPBIBI is negative (indicative that the accumulated displacements DPBI is less than the accumulated displacement DPBI, and, the system 100 is being used for deployment, to thereby transport the strip panel element 400 from the first end 110 to the second end 120, the steps 1510, 1520, 1530 are modified and one of them is then executed, as follows. Similarly, if the fourth displacement difference DPBIB2 is positive (indicative that the accumulated displacements DPBI is greater than the accumulated displacement DPB2), and, the system 100 is being used for undeployment, to thereby transport the strip panel element 400 from the second end 120 to the first end 110, the steps 1510, 1520, 1530 are modified and one of them is then executed, as follows.

[0226] Step 1510 - the controller 500 can then generate and transmit an appropriate actuation signal ASBI to motor arrangement 700B1 to increase the rotational speed G>BI thereof until the fourth displacement difference DPBIB2 once again is at or below the fourth threshold TH4.

[0227] Step 1520 - the controller 500 can generate and transmit an appropriate actuation signal ASB2 to motor arrangements 700B2 to decrease the rotational speed CωB2 thereof until the fourth displacement difference DPBIB2 once again is at or below the fourth threshold TH4.

[0228] Step 1530 - the controller 500 can generate and transmit appropriate actuation signals ASBI and ASB2 to motor arrangements 700B1 and 700B2, respectively to concurrently or sequentially increase the rotational speed ω BI of motor arrangement 700B1, and to decrease the rotational speed C B2 of motor arrangement 700B2, until the fourth displacement difference DPBIB2 once again is at or below the fourth threshold TH4.

[0229] Whether the fourth displacement difference DPBIB2 is positive or negative, and whether the strip panel element 400 is being deployed or undeployed, the choice of which one of the respective steps 1510, 1520, 1530 to take can depend on a number of different factors, for example, the absolute value and sign of the first displacement difference DPAIBI, and / or the absolute value and sign of the second displacement difference DPA2B2, and / or the absolute value and sign of the third displacement difference DPAIA2. In particular, in examples in which the system 100 is being used for deployment, to thereby transport the strip panel element 400 from the first end 110 to the second end 120, the fourth threshold TH^s such as to ensure that the accumulated displacement DPB2 is never less than the accumulated displacement DPBI, to thereby prevent movement of the strip panel element 400 exerting a pulling force at the drive drums of the motor arrangement 700B1 that could damage the same. Similarly, in examples in which the system 100 is being used for undeployment, to thereby transport the strip panel element 400 from the second end 110 to the first end 110, the fourth threshold TH4 is such as to ensure that the accumulated displacement DPBI is never less than the accumulated displacement DPBI, to thereby prevent movement of the strip panel element 400 exerting a pulling force at the drive drums of the motor arrangement 700B2 that could damage the same.

[0230] Thus in general, in examples in which the system 100 is being used for deployment, to thereby transport the strip panel element 400 from the first end 110 to the second end 120, or in which the system 100 is being used for undeployment, to thereby transport the strip panel element 400 from the second end 120 to the first end 110, the relative rotational speeds of the motor arrangements 700B1, 700B2 are such as to enable slack to be provided in the strip panel element 400 between the first pair 610 and the second pair 620. Such slack can be accommodated, for example, in spacing SP2 and / or spacing SP4 (Fig. 2).

[0231] The fourth time period t4 is typically less than the magnitude of the next time interval At. In examples in which steps 1200 to 1500 are executed sequentially, the fourth time period t4 is typically less than 25% of the magnitude of the next time interval At.

[0232] In Step 1600 the controller 500 determines whether or not the strip panel member 400 has been fully deployed, if the method 1000 was being used to deploy the strip panel member 400, or whether or not the strip panel member 400 has been fully undeployed, if the method 1000 was being used to undeploy the strip panel member 400. If the strip panel member 400 has been fully deployed or undeployed, respectively, then the four motor arrangements 700A1, 700B1, 700A2, 700B2 are switched off by the controller 500. For example, the controller 500 can determine whether the strip panel member 400 has been fully deployed / fully undeployed by comparing at least one of the respective accumulated displacements DPAI, DPBI, DPA2, DPB2 of the strip panel element 400 at each of the four motor arrangements 700A1, 700B1, 700A2, 700B2, respectively. If the one or more respective accumulated displacements DPAI, DPBI, DPA2, DPB2 exceeds a predetermined threshold value, the controller 500 determines that the strip panel member 400 has been fully deployed / fully undeployed. Such a threshold value corresponds to the longitudinal dimension LO of the zone ZO, or can be close thereto, for example ±10% of the longitudinal dimension LO. Additionally or alternatively, for example, a suitable sensor can be used to determine whether the first end 402 is at the first end 110 or at the second end 120, and thereby enable the controller 500 to determine whether or not the strip panel member 400 has been fully deployed / fully undeployed.

[0233] On the other hand, if the controller 500 determines that the strip panel member 400 has not been fully deployed or undeployed, then at the next time interval At after the preceding time interval At, the controller 500 determines again each of the (thus updated) first displacement difference DPAIBI, the second displacement difference DPA2B2, the third displacement difference DPAIA, and the fourth displacement difference DPBIB2, and then proceeds with step 1700.

[0234] In step 1700 the controller 500 repeats repeat steps 1200 to 1600, as many times as necessary, until in step 1600 in one such cycle controller determines that the strip panel member 400 has been fully deployed / fully undeployed, and the four motor arrangements 700A1, 700B1, 700A2, 700B2 are then switched off by the controller 500.

[0235] In another example of a method of operating the system 100 the controller 500 operates to control the respective rotational speeds CωAI, CωBI, CωA2, CωB2, of the four motor arrangements 700A1, 700B1, 700A2, 700B2 according to the following steps, assuming that the strip panel element 400 is being transported from the first longitudinal end 110 to the second longitudinal end 120:

[0236] (Al) If the rotational speed CωAI of motor arrangement 700A1 determined by the controller 500 to be greater than the rotational speed co BI of motor arrangement 700B1, and the rotational speed ω AI of motor arrangement 700A1 is also determined by the controller 500 to be greater than the nominal rotational speed ω N, the controller 500 generates and sends a suitable actuation signal ASAI to the motor arrangement 700A1 to thereby reduce the rotational speed ω AI to match the rotational speed ω BI of motor arrangement 700B1

[0237] (A2) If the rotational speed ω AI of motor arrangement 700A1 determined by the controller 500 to be greater than the rotational speed co BI of motor arrangement 700B1, and the rotational speed ω AI of motor arrangement 700A1 is also determined by the controller 500 to be less than the nominal rotational speed ω N, the controller 500 generates and sends a suitable actuation signal ASAI to the motor arrangement 700A1 to thereby increase the rotational speed ω AI to match the rotational speed ω BI of motor arrangement 700B1.

[0238] (A3) If the rotational speed ω A2 of motor arrangement 700A2 determined by the controller 500 to be greater than the rotational speed ω B2 of motor arrangement 700B2, and the rotational speed ω A2 of motor arrangement 700A2 is also determined by the controller 500 to be greater than the nominal rotational speed ω N, the controller 500 generates and sends a suitable actuation signal ASA2 to the motor arrangement 700A2 to thereby reduce the rotational speed ω A2 to match the rotational speed ω B2 of motor arrangement 700B2

[0239] (A4) If the rotational speed ω A2 of motor arrangement 700A2 determined by the controller 500 to be greater than the rotational speed ω B2 of motor arrangement 700B2, and the rotational speed ω A2 of motor arrangement 700A2 is also determined by the controller 500 to be less than the nominal rotational speed ω N, the controller 500 generates and sends a suitable actuation signal ASA2 to the motor arrangement 700A2 to thereby increase the rotational speed ω A2 to match the rotational speed ω B2 of motor arrangement 700B2.

[0240] Steps (Al) and (A2) can be followed up by the following step (A5): (A5) the controller 500 generates and sends a suitable actuation signal ASAI to the motor arrangement 700A1, and a suitable actuation signal ASBI to the motor arrangement 700B1, to thereby bring the rotational speed ω I and the rotational speed ω AI to each concurrently match the nominal rotational speed ωN

[0241] Steps (A3) and (A4) can be followed up by the following step (A6):

[0242] (A6) the controller 500 generates and sends a suitable actuation signal ASAI to the motor arrangement 700A2, and a suitable actuation signal ASB2 to the motor arrangement 700B2, to thereby bring the rotational speed ω A2 and the rotational speed ω A2 to each concurrently match the nominal rotational speed ω N, or to surpass nominal rotational speed co N by a predetermined factor, for example by 10%.

[0243] In yet another example of a method of operating the system 100 the controller 500 operates to control the respective rotational speeds ωAI, ωBI, ωA2, ωB2, of the four motor arrangements 700A1, 700B1, 700A2, 700B2 according to the following steps, assuming that the strip panel element 400 is being transported from the second longitudinal end 120 to the first longitudinal end 110:

[0244] (Bl) If the rotational speed ω A2 of motor arrangement 700A2 determined by the controller 500 to be greater than the rotational speed ω B2 of motor arrangement 700B2, and the rotational speed ωA2 of motor arrangement 700A2 is also determined by the controller 500 to be greater than the nominal rotational speed N, the controller 500 generates and sends a suitable actuation signal ASA2 to the motor arrangement 700A2 to thereby reduce the rotational speed A2 to match the rotational speed ωB2 of motor arrangement 700B2

[0245] (B2) If the rotational speed ωA2 of motor arrangement 700A2 determined by the controller 500 to be greater than the rotational speed ω B2 of motor arrangement 700B2, and the rotational speed ωA2 of motor arrangement 700A2 is also determined by the controller 500 to be less than the nominal rotational speed ω N, the controller 500 generates and sends a suitable actuation signal ASA2 to the motor arrangement 700A2 to thereby increase the rotational speed ω A2 to match the rotational speed ω B2 of motor arrangement 700B2.

[0246] (B3) If the rotational speed ω AI of motor arrangement 700A1 determined by the controller 500 to be greater than the rotational speed ω BI of motor arrangement 700B1, and the rotational speed ω AI of motor arrangement 700A1 is also determined by the controller 500 to be greater than the nominal rotational speed ω N, the controller 500 generates and sends a suitable actuation signal ASAI to the motor arrangement 700A1 to thereby reduce the rotational speed ω AI to match the rotational speed ω BI of motor arrangement 700B1

[0247] (B4) If the rotational speed ω AI of motor arrangement 700A1 determined by the controller 500 to be greater than the rotational speed ω BI of motor arrangement 700B1, and the rotational speed ω AI of motor arrangement 700A1 is also determined by the controller 500 to be less than the nominal rotational speed ω N, the controller 500 generates and sends a suitable actuation signal ASAI to the motor arrangement 700A1 to thereby increase the rotational speed ω AI to match the rotational speed ω BI of motor arrangement 700B1.

[0248] Steps (Bl) and (B2) can be followed up by the following step (B5):

[0249] (B5) the controller 500 generates and sends a suitable actuation signal ASA2 to the motor arrangement 700A2, and a suitable actuation signal ASB2 to the motor arrangement 700B2, to thereby bring the rotational speed ω A2 and the rotational speed ω A2 to each concurrently match the nominal rotational speed ω N

[0250] Steps (B3) and (B4) can be followed up by the following step (B6):

[0251] (B6) the controller 500 generates and sends a suitable actuation signal ASAI to the motor arrangement 700A1, and a suitable actuation signal ASBI to the motor arrangement 700B1, to thereby bring the rotational speed (OAI and the rotational speed ω AI to each concurrently match the nominal rotational speed ω N, or to surpass nominal rotational speed co N by a predetermined factor, for example by 10%.

[0252] Referring to Fig. 14 and Fig. 15, the system 100 can optionally include one or more intermediate rotor arrangements 700', and the first rail element 300A and / or the second rail element 300B can be divided into corresponding rail element sub-sections, wherein each such rotor arrangement 700' is disposed between two serially adjacent such rail element sub-sections.

[0253] The one or more intermediate rotor arrangements 700' can be provided only on one of the first rail element 300A and the second rail element 300B. In examples in which there are at least two such rotor arrangements 700', the two intermediate rotor arrangements 700' can be provided as a pair, aligned with their respective rotational axes in coaxial arrangement, or at least in parallel arrangement.

[0254] Each such intermediate rotor arrangement 700' is similar to the rotor arrangement 700 as disclosed herein, mutatis mutandis, with the main difference being that the respective first channel portion and the second channel portion of the intermediate rotor arrangement 700' are angularly displaced with respect to one another by angle 0, wherein the angle 0 is nominally 180°.

[0255] In such cases the one or more intermediate rotor arrangements 700' can be operated in a similar manner to the motor arrangements 700A1, 700A2, 700B1, 700B2, mutatis mutandis, such as to ensure that the accumulated displacement DPA of the first lateral side 490A is matched with respect to the accumulated displacement DPB of the second lateral side 490B.

[0256] In at least some alternative variations of the above examples, the system 100 can include one pair of rotor arrangements 700, and the first rail element 300A and the second rail element 300B can each be divided into two corresponding rail element sub-sections, wherein each such rotor arrangement 700 of the pair is disposed between two serially adjacent such rail element sub-sections, and wherein the two rotor arrangement 700 of the pair are aligned with their respective rotational axes in coaxial arrangement. In at least some such examples, the respective two rail element sub-sections of each one of the first rail element 300A and the second rail element 300B are inclined with respect to one another at an inclination angle, such that the pair of rotor arrangements 700 is gravitationally above the longitudinal outer ends of the first rail element 300A and the second rail element 300B. Each such rotor arrangement 700 is similar to the rotor arrangement 700 as disclosed herein for the examples of Figs, . 15, mutatis mutandis, with the main difference being that the respective first channel portion and the second channel portion of the rotor arrangement 700 are angularly displaced with respect to one another by angle 0, wherein the angle 0 is matched to the aforesaid inclination angle. Optionally, the longitudinal ends of the respective strip panel element 400 can be provided with weights. The weights effectively drape over the two longitudinal ends of the first rail element 300A and the second rail element 300B, and essentially apply a tensile load on the respective strip panel element 400, enabling the respective strip panel element 400 to be pulled in either longitudinal direction. In such cases the rotor arrangements 700 can be operated in a similar manner to one or the other of the first pair 610 of motor arrangements 700A1, 700B1 or second pair 620 of motor arrangements 700A2, 700B2, mutatis mutandis, such as to ensure that the accumulated displacement DPA of the first lateral side 490A is matched with respect to the accumulated displacement DPB of the second lateral side 490B.

[0257] In at least some applications of the presently disclosed subject matter, two or more systems 100 can be provided for covering a relatively large ground zone, which is split into corresponding zones ZO for each respective system 100. In at least some such examples at least two such systems 100 can be provided in laterally adjacent arrangement with respect to one another. Furthermore, in at least some such examples, the respective first pair of rotor arrangement of one system 100 can be laterally aligned with the respective first pair of rotor arrangement of the other system 100, and / or, the respective second pair of motor arrangement of one system 100 can be laterally aligned with the respective second pair of motor arrangement of the other system 100. In at least some such examples, the respective aligned and directly adjacent motor arrangements can be provided as an integrated unit 700", for example as illustrated in Fig. 16. Such an integrated unit 700" can comprise two rotor arrangement 700 as disclosed herein, mutatis mutandis, affixed to one another laterally; optionally, the respective housing plates can be provided as an integral housing plate 763". However, in such adjacent systems 100, each such system 100 operates independently of the other adjacent systems 100.

[0258] Furthermore, the adjacent first rail element of one system 100 of one system and the respective adjacent second rail element of the other system 100, can be provided as an integrated rail element 300AB, also as schematically illustrated in Fig. 16 (it is to be noted that in this figure, the longitudinal length of the integrated rail element 300AB is not necessarily to scale with respect to other dimensions thereof or with respect to dimensions of other components in this figure). Optionally, an energy supply system can be used to supply electrical energy to one or more such systems 100.

[0259] In the method claims that follow, alphanumeric characters and Roman numerals used to designate claim steps are provided for convenience only and do not imply any particular order of performing the steps.

[0260] Finally, it should be noted that the word “comprising” as used throughout the appended claims is to be interpreted to mean “including but not limited to”.

[0261] While there has been shown and disclosed examples in accordance with the presently disclosed subject matter, it will be appreciated that many changes may be made therein without departing from the scope of the presently disclosed subject matter as set out in the claims.

Claims

1. CLAIMS:

1. A transport system for enabling selectively and alternately deploying and undeploying a strip panel element with respect to a ground zone, the transport system comprising a motor drive system operatively coupled to a controller, the motor drive system comprising at least one pair of motor arrangements, wherein for each said pair: the pair of motor arrangements comprises a first motor arrangement and a second motor arrangement having respective first turning axis and second turning axis, respectively, at least parallel to one another, wherein the first motor arrangement and the second motor arrangement are mechanically uncoupled with respect to one another, the first motor arrangement being configured for cooperating with a respective first lateral side of the strip panel element in a manner to thereby selectively cause the first lateral side to be longitudinally displaced by a respective first accumulated displacement; the second motor arrangement being configured for cooperating with a respective second lateral side of the strip panel element in a manner to thereby selectively cause the second lateral side to be longitudinally displaced by a respective second accumulated displacement; wherein said controller is configured for operating each said pair such as to match the respective first accumulated displacement with respect to the respective second accumulated displacement.

2. The transport system according to claim 1, wherein each said motor arrangement comprising an electric motor and an output shaft, the output shaft being fixedly mounted to a drive drum, the drive drum being configured for cooperating with and displacing the respective lateral side of the strip panel element responsive to a rotation of the respective drive drum by the respective motor arrangement.

3. The transport system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein each said motor arrangement comprises a respective rotational speed sensor system configured for enabling determination of a respective rotational speed of therespective drive drum, and wherein the respective rotational speed sensor system is operatively coupled to the controller.

4. The transport system according to claim 3, wherein the drive system is configured for enabling determining in real time the respective first accumulated displacement and the respective second accumulated displacement of each said pair from the respective said rotational speed.

5. The transport system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein for each said pair, the respective first turning axis and the respective second turning axis are coaxial with respect to one another.

6. The transport system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein said controller is configured for generating and transmitting suitable actuation signals to at least one said motor arrangement of each said pair such as to cause a change in rotational speed of the respective said motor arrangement, such as to thereby match the respective first accumulated displacement with respect to the respective second accumulated displacement.

7. The transport system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein each said motor arrangement comprises a channel system comprising a first channel portion, turning channel portion, and a second channel portion serially arranged and in open communication with one another, the channel system being configured for facilitating cooperation of the respective lateral side of the strip panel element with the respective motor arrangement, in operation of the transport system.

8. The transport system according to claim 7, wherein each respective motor arrangement is configured for changing a direction of motion of the respective lateral side by a turning angle, as the respective lateral side is being transported with respect to the respective motor arrangement, and wherein the first channel portion and the second channel portion are angularly displaced with respect to one another by said turning angle.

9. The transport system according to claim 8, wherein said turning angle is nominally 90°10. The transport system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising two said pairs of motor arrangements, longitudinally spaced from one another.

11. A covering system for reversibly covering a zone, comprising a first rail element, a second rail element, a strip panel element, and a transport system, the covering system having a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, wherein the strip panel element is configured for being selectively transported with respect to said first rail element and said second rail element between said first longitudinal end and said second longitudinal end via said transport system, and wherein the transport system is as defined in any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The covering system according to claim 11, wherein the first rail element and the second rail element are laterally spaced from one another, and wherein the first rail element is configured for enabling the first lateral side of the strip panel element to be transported therein, and wherein the second rail element is configured for enabling the second lateral side of the strip panel element to be transported therein, during operation of the covering system.

13. The covering system according to claim 12, wherein the strip panel element comprises a plurality of rail engagement elements on each one of the first lateral side and the second lateral side, and wherein each said rail element comprises a lumen configured for enabling the respective rail engagement elements of the respective lateral side of the strip panel element to be received therein.

14. The covering system according to any oner of claims 11 to 13, wherein the strip panel element comprises a sheet for covering the ground zone when the covering system is deployed, and for uncovering the ground zone when the covering system is undeployed.

15. The covering system according to claim 14, wherein the sheet is made from a flexible sheet material.

16. The covering system according to any one of claims 14 to 15, wherein the sheet is formed as a contiguous material.

17. The covering system according to any one of claims 14 to 15, wherein the sheet is formed as an open mesh material.

18. The covering system according to any one of claims 14 to 17, wherein the strip panel element comprises an elongate first mounting tape affixed to a first lateral side of the sheet and comprising a respective said plurality of rail engagement elements affixed to the first mounting tape, and an elongate second mounting tape affixed to a second lateral side of the sheet and comprising a respective said plurality of rail engagement elements affixed to the second mounting tape.

19. The covering system according to claim 18, wherein the sheet comprises a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, wherein the second longitudinal end is longitudinally spaced from the first longitudinal end, and wherein the strip panel element further comprises a first mounting tape extension and a second mounting tale extension, each said first and second mounting tape extension extending from the first longitudinal end in a direction away from the second longitudinal end.

20. The covering system according to claim 19, the first mounting tape extension is contiguous with the first mounting tape, and the second mounting tape extension is contiguous with the second mounting tape, and wherein each one of said first mounting tape extension and said second mounting tape extension comprises a respective plurality of said rail engagement elements affixed thereto.

21. The covering system according to claim 20, wherein the first mounting tape extension and the second mounting tape extension each extend from the first longitudinal end by an extension length is sufficient to ensure that the first mounting tape extension and the second mounting tape extension are engaged with the second said pair of drive motor arrangements when the first and second mounting tapes are engaged with the first pair of drive motor arrangements to thereby ensure that the strip panel element is fully engaged with all the motor arrangements of the motor drive system regardless of the position of the strip panel element between a fully deployed position and a fully undeployed position.

22. The covering system according to claim 21, wherein in the fully deployed position, the sheet is fully superposed over the zone, while in the fully undeployed position, no part of the sheet is superposed over the zone.

23. A method for enabling selectively and alternately deploying and undeploying a strip panel element with respect to a ground zone, wherein the transport system is as defined in any one of claims 1 to 10, the method comprising operating each said pair such as to match the respective first accumulated displacement with respect to the respective second accumulated displacement.

24. The method according to claim 23, comprising determining a respective rotational speed of each respective drive drum.

25. The method according to claim 24, comprising determining in real time the respective first accumulated displacement and the respective second accumulated displacement of each said pair from the respective said rotational speed.

26. The method according to any one of claims 23 to 25, comprising generating and transmitting suitable actuation signals to at least one said motor arrangement of each said pair such as to cause a change in rotational speed of the respective said motor arrangement, to thereby match the respective first accumulated displacement with respect to the respective second accumulated displacement.

27. The method according to any one of claims 23 to 26, comprising providing two said pairs of motor arrangements, and determining respective displacement differences between the respective accumulated displacements of the strip panel element at each of the four motor arrangements, respectively, at suitable time intervals after commencement of the deployment or undeployment of the strip panel element.

28. The method according to claim 27, comprising the following steps:(I) providing a first said displacement difference by determining the difference between the respective accumulated displacements at the two motor arrangements of the first pair;(II) providing a second said displacement difference by determining the difference between the respective accumulated displacements at the two motor arrangements of the second pair;(III) providing a third said displacement difference by determining the difference between the respective accumulated displacements at the two motor arrangements of a first lateral side of the strip panel element;(IV) providing a fourth said displacement difference by determining the difference between the respective accumulated displacements at the two motor arrangements of a second lateral side of the strip panel element.

29. The method according to claim 28, comprising the following steps:(A) at a first time interval from commencement of deployment or undeployment of the strip panel element with respect to the zone, determining each of the first displacement difference, the second displacement difference, the third displacement difference, and the fourth displacement difference;(B) determining whether the magnitude of the first displacement difference is within a first threshold - if yes, continuing to step (C); if no adjusting the rotational speed of at least one motor arrangement of the first pair such as to bring the first displacement difference to not greater than the first thresholdwithin a predetermined first time period, and thereafter proceeding with step(C);(C) determining whether the magnitude of the second displacement difference is within a second threshold- if yes, continuing to step (D); if no adjusting the rotational speed of at least one motor arrangement of the second pair such as to bring the second displacement difference to not greater than the second threshold within a predetermined second time period, and thereafter proceeding with step (D);(D) determining whether the magnitude of the third displacement difference is within a third threshold- if yes, continuing to step (E); if no adjusting the rotational speed of at least one motor arrangement of the first lateral side such as to bring the third displacement difference to not greater than the third threshold within a predetermined third time period, and thereafter proceeding with step (E);(E) determining whether the magnitude of the fourth displacement difference is within a fourth threshold- if yes, continuing to step (F); if no adjusting the rotational speed of at least one motor arrangement of the second lateral side such as to bring the fourth displacement difference to not greater than the fourth threshold within a predetermined fourth time period, and thereafter proceed with step (F);(F) determining whether the strip panel member has been fully deployed / fully undeployed; if yes the four motor arrangements are switched off; if no, at a next said time interval after the preceding said time interval, determining each of the first displacement difference, the second displacement difference, the third displacement difference, and the fourth displacement difference, and then proceeding with step (G);(G) repeating steps (B) to (F) until in step (F) the strip panel member has been fully deployed / fully undeployed.

30. A method for reversibly covering a zone, comprising providing a covering system as defined in any one of claims 11 to 22, the method comprising selectively and alternately undeploying the strip panel element with respect to a ground zone.

31. A motor arrangement comprising an electric motor and an output shaft, the output shaft being fixedly mounted to a drive drum, the drive drum being configured for cooperating with and displacing a respective lateral side of the strip panel element responsive to a rotation of the respective drive drum by the respective motor arrangement, and wherein said motor arrangement comprises a channel system comprising a first channel portion, turning channel portion, and a second channel portion serially arranged and in open communication with one another, the channel system being configured for facilitating cooperation of the respective lateral side of the strip panel element with the respective motor arrangement, in operation of the transport system.

32. The motor arrangement according claim 31, wherein said motor arrangement comprises a respective rotational speed sensor system configured for enabling determination of a respective rotational speed of the respective drive drum.

33. The transport system according to any one of claims 31 to 32, wherein each respective motor arrangement is configured for changing a direction of motion of the respective lateral side by a turning angle, as the respective lateral side is being transported with respect to the motor arrangement, and wherein the first channel portion and the second channel portion are angularly displaced with respect to one another by said turning angle.

34. The transport system according to claim 33, wherein said turning angle is nominally 90°.

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