Slat roof, terrace canopy comprising the same, and a kit of parts for constructing it

Abstract

Slat roof for a terrace canopy. The slat roof is provided with a set of mutually parallel slats (7), wherein a fixed slat (14) of said set of slats is provided with a rigid elongated core (13) which extends through said fixed slat. The fixed slat is configured for attaching thereto a functional component, selected from a plurality of mutually different functional components. Height-adjustable connecting means (21, 22, 23) are provided between the fixed slat and the core for adjusting a distance between the bottom of the slat and the bottom of the core. The adjustable connecting means allow to compensate for deflection of the fixed slat, for example, as a result of the functional component. In this way, functional elements can be attached to a slat of the slat roof without obtaining a slat with a deviating deflection.

Description

[0001] Slat roof, terrace canopy comprising the same, and a kit of parts for constructing it

[0002] Technical field

[0003] The present invention relates to a slat roof. The present invention also relates to a kit of parts for constructing such a slat roof. The present invention further relates to a terrace canopy comprising such a slat roof.

[0004] Prior art

[0005] Slat roofs are usually installed to screen off or rather free up an outdoor area. For example, such covers are often installed at homes, restaurants, shops, etc. to screen off an outdoor patio or the like from solar radiation, precipitation and / or wind, or rather to temporarily let solar radiation in. These covers can, for example, be in the form of an awning, pergola, veranda, carport, pavilion, etc.

[0006] In the context of a slat roof, there are typically four orientations (namely top, bottom, outside and inside) for the frame of the slat roof. In this respect, ‘top’ refers to the portion of the slat roof that is or will be oriented towards the top surface (i.e. the sky, e.g. the open air), ‘bottom’ refers to the portion of the slat roof that is or will be oriented towards the ground surface (i.e. the ground, e.g. the patio floor), ‘outside’ refers to the portion of the slat roof that is or will be oriented away from the roof (i.e. away from the slats) and ‘inside’ refers to the portion of the roof construction that is or will be oriented towards the inside of the slat roof (i.e. facing the slats).

[0007] A slat roof typically comprises a frame, comprising at least two beams which extend mutually parallel and to which multiple slats are rotatably connected between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, there is an intermediate space between the slats, and in the closed position, the slats together form a continuous cover. By rotating the slats between these positions, light incidence, radiant heat and ventilation to the space below the slats can be controlled. For example, by aligning the slats, sun and / or wind can be shielded off or let through. In other words, the slat roof acts as protection from the sun, precipitation, wind, etc. for a space located below it.

[0008] In addition, the slats, in their open position, can optionally be provided slidable in the slat roof, wherein they are typically slidable between a position, wherein they are spread across the slat roof and a position, wherein they are mainly installed on one side of the slat roof. In addition to rotatable slats, it is also possible to include one or multiple fixed slats in the slat roof. A fixed slat is understood to mean a slat that is firmly connected to the beams and therefore neither rotatable nor slidable.

[0009] A problem with such a slat roof is the integration or attachment of various components in or to the slats, which influence their deflection. An example of such an integration is disclosed in WO 2021 / 048773 A1 , which discloses a slat with an integrated heating element. Because, by integrating an additional element into a slat, additional weight is added to the slat compared to the other slats in the slat roof. Adding this additional weight then affects the deflection of the slat and typically results in the fact that the slat with the integrated component has a higher deflection than the adjacent slats. This different deflection is undesirable, especially when the slats are closed. Firstly, this is visually disruptive because the bottom of the closed slat roof does not have a uniformly flat appearance. Moreover, this negatively impacts the water-tightness of the slat roof. The water-tightness between two slats is typically based on interlocking and / or fitting portions of the adjacent slats. However, this interlocking and / or fitting is hampered when the deflection differs significantly.

[0010] A similar problem has already been raised in WO 2023 / 031757 A1 and WO 2023 / 031758 A1.

[0011] WO 2023 / 031757 A1 discloses the use of a more rigid slat (i.e., a slat with higher bending resistance than the other slats). Variable weights are applied inside the rigid slat. Depending on the selected functional component and its placement on the rigid slat, the variable weights are adjusted until the rigid slat has the same deflection as the other slats. The use of variable weights in different slats also allows for compensation for mutually different deflections (e. g., due to the manufacturing tolerance).

[0012] A disadvantage of this solution is that it is labor-intensive. For each different functional component and / or different placement, a different placement of the variable weights is required. Furthermore, with any subsequent changes (e.g., a new or different functional component) there is a need to correctly reset the variable weights.

[0013] WO 2023 / 031758 A1 discloses a slat roof according to the preamble of claim 1 . The known slat roof comprises a fixed slat with a separate, rigid core extending through the fixed slat. Functional components are directly attached to the core and therefore do not affect the deflection of the fixed slat.

[0014] A disadvantage of this solution is the mounting of a functional component. As a matter of fact, it is not easy to access the elongated core from the bottom of the fixed slat. This is possible by creating a large opening in the fixed slat, but this is undesirable because such an opening is difficult to conceal later. Alternatively, access must be provided from the top of the slat roof, but this often requires several people. Consequently, adjusting or replacing a functional component later is not user-friendly and requires the assistance of a specialized technician.

[0015] An additional disadvantage is that this solution does not allow to compensate for manufacturing tolerances between adjacent fixed slats.

[0016] Description of the invention

[0017] It is an object of the present invention to further improve the slat roof, disclosed in WO 2023 / 031758 A1.

[0018] According to the present invention, this object is achieved in that: on at least one location between the ends of the elongated core, height- adjustable connecting means are provided between the elongated core and the fixed slat, which are configured to adjust the distance between the bottom of the elongated core and a bottom of the fixed slat; and in that the fixed slat is configured for attaching thereto a functional component which is selected from a plurality of mutually different functional components.

[0019] By attaching the functional component directly to the fixed slat (instead of to the elongated core as in WO 2023 / 031758 A1 ), mounting is simpler and can be done by one person from the bottom of the slat roof.

[0020] The deflection of the fixed slat due to the additional load from a functional component can be accommodated by the height-adjustable connecting means. These allow the bottom of the fixed slat to be moved closer or further relative to the rigid elongated core. Additionally, the height- adjustable connecting means also allow to compensate for any deflection of the fixed slat (e.g., due to the manufacturing tolerance).

[0021] The height-adjustable connecting means therefore allow to adjust the bottom of the fixed slat such that it exhibits equal deflection with the adjacent slats, independent of the presence or absence of a functional component and / or other factors influencing the deflection.

[0022] Typically, deflection should be measured at the center of the slat, viewed in the longitudinal direction, because that is where the greatest deflection is expected. A difference in deflection between different slats of at most 2 mm is considered "the same deflection" in the context of this disclosure; in other words, two different slats have the same deflection if the difference in deflection is not more than 2 mm.

[0023] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that said adjustable connecting means comprise a control means that is configured to exert an adjustable force on the fixed slat to pull the fixed slat towards or push it away from the elongated core in the height direction. The advantage is that both a positive (i.e., pulling the bottom of the slat upward relative to the elongated core) and a negative (i.e., pushing the bottom of the slat downward relative to the elongated core) force are possible.

[0024] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that said adjustable connecting means comprises: a first contact means contacting the elongated core; a second contact means contacting the fixed slat; and a control means disposed between the contact means that is configured to exert an adjustable force on the contact means for pushing them apart or pulling them together. Preferably, the first contact means comprises a plateshaped element that rests on a top side of the elongated core, and the second contact means comprises at least one wall part of the fixed slat.

[0025] The use of contact elements and a control means allows to form the adjustable connection means a pressure contact between the elongated core and the fixed slat, which pushes the fixed slat away from the elongated core to a varying degree. Importantly, the elongated core is more rigid than the fixed slat, such that increasing the pressure has a greater effect on the fixed slat.

[0026] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that said control means comprises a screw body, rotatable about its longitudinal axis. Rotation of the screw body causes a variation in the force, exerted on the elongated core and the fixed slat.

[0027] The screw body can be a conventional bolt with a head that is fixed to either the core or the fixed slat (or the designated contact means), with the screw portion fitted into a designated opening on the other of the core or the fixed slat (or the designated contact means). Alternatively, the screw body can be a threaded rod with two threaded portions having opposite threads, that are fitted into designated openings on the core and the fixed slat (or the designated contact means).

[0028] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that such height-adjustable connecting means are provided between the elongated core and the fixed slat at a plurality of locations between the ends of the elongated core. This allows for a height adjustment at various locations along the fixed slat for a more precise control of the deflection.

[0029] An embodiment of the present invention is characterised in that the fixed slat is provided with a cavity, wherein the elongated core extends through the cavity. This way, the elongated core is protected from the elements and also concealed from view. The adjustable connecting means can also be concealed in this way. An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that said cavity is delimited by at least two upright side walls, wherein at least one side wall, preferably both side walls, are provided with a wall extending in the longitudinal direction within the cavity which forms part of said adjustable connecting means. Such an extending wall can, for example, form the second contact means described above. Advantageously, this can be formed as an integral part of the fixed slat, for example, during the extrusion process. Therefore, no additional mounting step is required.

[0030] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that said cavity is delimited by at least two upright side walls and a removable protective cover attached thereto. The removable protective cover provides easy access to the interior of the cavity, allowing easy access to adjustable connecting means.

[0031] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the elongated core is provided with a longitudinally extending wall which forms part of said adjustable connecting means and which at least partially overlaps with said longitudinally extending wall. Such an extending wall can, for example, form the first contact means described above. The overlap in both wall portions allows for easy placement of a screw body as a control means.

[0032] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that said cavity is symmetrical with respect to a hypothetical median plane perpendicular to the first direction.

[0033] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the functional component is attached to the fixed slat and comprises one or more of: a heating element, lighting, such as LED lighting, an audio element, such as a loudspeaker, an imaging element, such as a screen and / or a projector, communication means, such as Bluetooth or WiFi, a sensor, such as a rain sensor, wind sensor, or a light sensor, a power-generating means, a ventilation element, such as a fan. This increases the available options an end user can implement in its slat roof. An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the functional component is attached to the fixed slat, and that such adjustable connecting means are positioned at least near the attachment of the functional component to the fixed slat. The height adjustment is therefore performed at least near the source of the additional load on the fixed slat. Any torsional effects and / or differences in deflection due to a distance in the longitudinal direction between the additional load and the location of the height adjustment are thus avoided.

[0034] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the fixed slat is provided with a headboard at both ends, wherein the elongated core is attached to the headboards. Preferably, the headboards are attached to the frame.

[0035] After attaching the headboards, the fixed slat essentially forms a beam-shaped body with several longitudinal walls (i.e., walls extending along the longitudinal direction of the slat) and two end walls (formed by a headboard). By attaching the elongated core to the headboards, there is no (or at least very little) load exerted by the elongated core on the bottom longitudinal wall of the fixed slat. This is desirable, since the deflection of the fixed slat is essentially (solely) the result of a load on the longitudinal walls and, of course, the slat's own weight. Moreover, by attaching the headboards to the frame, they simultaneously have a dual function, namely securing the elongated core and securing the slat to the frame. This also ensures that the load from the elongated core is transferred to the frame via the headboards, thereby eliminating any load on the longitudinal walls of the slat.

[0036] In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the fixed slat is provided with a bearing element near each end that carries the elongated core. Each bearing element rests on a longitudinal wall of the fixed slat, in particular the bottom longitudinal wall.

[0037] By having the elongated core rest on bearing elements at the ends of the fixed slat, there is no (or at least very little) influence on the deflection of the longitudinal walls of the slat, even though the bearing elements rest on the longitudinal wall. The bearing elements are located so close to the attachment of the fixed slat to the frame that the additional load on the slat has virtually no effect on its deflection.

[0038] In general, it can be said that the headboards and the bearing elements each form a type of support element that serves to support the elongated core in a floating manner in the fixed slat.

[0039] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the elongated core is made of a material with a modulus of elasticity which is greater than the modulus of elasticity of the material from which the fixed slat is made. Preferably, the modulus of elasticity of the material from which the elongated core is made is at least 25 %, preferably at least 100 %, more preferably at least 150 %, and most preferably at least 200 %, greater than the modulus of elasticity of the material from which the fixed slat is made.

[0040] A sufficiently rigid elongated core allows any choice of functional components to be attached to the fixed slat. The resulting deflection can always be compensated for by exerting sufficient force to the fixed slat via the adjustable connections means, since the core is sufficiently rigid to not (or only slightly ) deflect as a result of the applied force.

[0041] Increasing the modulus of elasticity is a way to enhance the bending resistance of the elongated core. This can also be achieved by increasing the moment of inertia, but this is often more difficult. The moment of inertia is a consequence of the design, particularly the cross-sectional area, of the element (i.e., the core or the fixed slat), which is not easily modified. Furthermore, the moment of inertia of the fixed slat is often higher than that of the elongated core due to the larger cross-sectional dimensions of the fixed slat.

[0042] In an embodiment of the present invention, each of the slats in said set of slats has approximately the same bending resistance. This allows the use of identical slats or, at the very least, slats which have the same deflection.

[0043] The advantages described above are also achieved with a terrace canopy comprising a slat roof as described above. The advantages described above are also achieved with a kit of parts for constructing a slat roof as described above, wherein the set includes the frame, the set of slats, the fixed slat, the elongated core and a multitude of mutually different functional components.

[0044] Short description of the drawings

[0045] The invention will be explained in further detail hereinafter with reference to the following description and the accompanying drawings.

[0046] Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a terrace canopy with a slat roof according to the present invention.

[0047] Figures 2A and 2B show a bottom view and a top view, respectively, of three adjacent slats of a slat roof according to the present invention.

[0048] Figures 3A and 3B show a cross-section through the three adjacent slats shown in Figures 2A and 2B near the center and end, respectively, of the slats.

[0049] Figures 4A through 4E show a cross-section through alternative versions of the fixed slat.

[0050] Figures 5A and 5B show different ways of connecting the fixed slat to the beams.

[0051] Embodiments of the invention

[0052] The present invention will be described hereinafter by means of certain embodiments and with reference to certain drawings, but the invention is not limited thereto and is defined only by the claims. The drawings shown here are only schematic representations and are not restrictive. In the drawings, the dimensions of certain parts may be shown enlarged, which means that the parts in question are therefore not shown to scale, and this for illustrative purposes only. The dimensions and the relative dimensions do not necessarily correspond to the actual practical embodiments of the invention.

[0053] In addition, terms such as “first,” “second,” “third,” and the like are used in the description and in the claims to distinguish between like elements and not necessarily to indicate sequential or chronological order. The terms in question are mutually interchangeable in the appropriate circumstances, and the embodiments of the invention may operate in orders other than those described or illustrated herein.

[0054] In addition, terms such as "top," "bottom," "above," "below," and the like are used in the description and in the claims for descriptive purposes. The terms so used are mutually interchangeable in the appropriate circumstances, and embodiments of the invention may operate in orientations other than those described or illustrated herein.

[0055] The term “comprising” and derivative terms, as used in the claims, shall not be construed as being limited to the means set forth in each case thereafter; the term does not exclude other elements or steps. The term shall be construed as specifying the recited features, integers, steps, or components referred to, without however excluding the presence or addition of one or more additional features, integers, steps, or components, or groups thereof. Therefore, the scope of an expression such as "a device comprising the means A and B" is not limited to devices consisting solely of components A and B. On the contrary, what is meant is that, as far as the present invention is concerned, the only relevant components are A and B.

[0056] The term "substantially" comprises variations of + / - 10 % or less, preferably + / -5 % or less, more preferably + / -1 % or less, and even more preferably + / -0.1 % or less, from the specified condition, in so far as the variations are applicable for operation in the present invention. It is to be understood that the term “substantially A” is intended to include “A”.

[0057] Figure 1 illustrates a terrace canopy 1 for a ground surface, for example a patio or garden. The cover comprises a plurality of columns 2 supporting different beams 3, 5. Together, the columns and beams form frames to which wall infills (not shown) and / or roof coverings 7 can be fastened, as described below.

[0058] The cover 1 generally comprises three types of beams, namely: a beam 3 that serves as an external pivot beam 3 on the outside of the cover 1 ; a beam that serves as a central pivot beam at the center of the cover 1 ; and a beam 5 that serves as a tension beam 5. It will also be appreciated that the beams can be attached to other structures, for example a wall or fagade, instead of being solely supported on columns 2, as shown in Figure 1 . In such a manner, the cover 1 can be generally used to screen an outdoor space, as well as an indoor space.

[0059] The terrace canopy 1 , shown in Figure 1 , comprises four support columns 2 that support a frame, also called a roof frame. The frame is formed of two external pivot beams 3 and two tension beams 5 between which a roof covering is provided. A wall infill (not shown) can optionally be provided between two support columns 2 and a pivot beam 3 tension beam 5.

[0060] Wall infills are typically intended to screen off openings under the cover 1 between the columns 2. The wall infills can be permanently installed or movable. Movable sidewalls comprise, for example, roll-up and roll-down screens and / or wall elements that are installed such as to be slidable relative to each other, etc. Permanently installed side walls can be made of different materials, such as plastic, glass, metal, textile, wood, etc. Combinations of different wall infills are also possible.

[0061] According to the present invention, the roof covering is formed by slats 7 that are rotatably attached to pivot beams 3 at their ends. The slats are rotatable between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, there is an intermediate space between the slats through which, for example, air can enter or leave the underlying space. In the closed position, the slats form a closed canopy, shielding the underlying space from, for example, wind and / or precipitation, such as rain, hail, or snow. To drain precipitation, the slats are typically arranged at an angle toward one of the two pivot beams 3. In addition, it is also possible that one or more of the slats are fixedly (i.e. not rotatably) fastened to the pivot beams 3. Figure 1 illustrates the closed position wherein the slats 7 together form a substantially continuous covering. In the open position (not shown), an intermediate space is present between the slats 7. As used hereinafter, the term “longitudinal direction of the slat roof” refers to the direction along which the beams 3 extend, as indicated by arrow 8 in Figure 1 .

[0062] As used hereinafter, the term “transverse direction of the slat roof” refers to the direction along which the slats 7 extend as indicated by arrow 9 in Figure 1 . The longitudinal direction and the transverse direction of the slat roof are perpendicular to each other.

[0063] As used herein, the term “longitudinal direction of a slat” refers to the direction along which the slats 7 extend as indicated by arrow 10 in Figures 2A and 2B.

[0064] As used herein, the term "transverse direction of a slat" refers to the direction that is approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of a slat, as indicated by arrow 1 1 in Figures 2A and 2B. The longitudinal direction 10 and the transverse direction 11 together form a plane that, in practice, extends substantially parallel to the ground surface.

[0065] As used herein, the term “height direction of a slat” means the direction that is substantially perpendicular to the plane, formed by the longitudinal and transverse directions of a slat, as indicated by arrow 12 in Figures 2A and 2B.

[0066] The slats are typically made of a rigid material. This can be aluminum, for example. Aluminum has many advantages as a material, as it is simultaneously robust and light, resistant to adverse weather conditions and requires little maintenance. However, other materials are also suitable and their advantages or disadvantages are assumed to be known by the person skilled in the art. A slat can be produced using different techniques depending on the material, including extrusion, milling, setting, casting, welding and so on. The appropriate production technique is assumed to be known by the person skilled in the art. Preferably, the slats are manufactured by an extrusion process. Optionally, filler elements made of, for example, polycarbonate, glass, wood, etc., can be used to at least partially fill the hollow slats, for example to obtain a different appearance of the slat, in particular if the slat is manufactured from a transparent material, such as glass.

[0067] By rotating the slats 7 between the open position and the closed position, light incidence, radiant heat and ventilation to the space below the slats can be controlled. In the open position, there is an intermediate space between the slats 7 through which, for example, air can enter or leave the underlying space. In the closed position, the slats 7 form a closed canopy that can protect the underlying space from, for example, wind and / or precipitation such as rain, hail or snow. To drain precipitation, the slats 7 are typically angled towards one of the two pivot beams 3.

[0068] Details regarding the attachment of a slat 7 to the pivot beams 3 are known to those skilled in the art. Details can be found, for example, in patent application BE 2016 / 5365. The attachment typically uses a shaft that passes through the slat 7 and connects to an end piece, provided with a slat shaft that engages with an opening in the pivot beams 5, which opening is typically provided with a bearing. It will be clear that other connections, for example without an end piece, wherein the slat shaft is, in that case, directly present on the slat, are also possible.

[0069] With reference to the figures, any reference to an orientation of the beams shall be interpreted with reference to the position when mounted in the terrace canopy. In this manner, there are four orientations, namely top, bottom, outside and inside. In this respect, ‘top’ refers to the portion of the beam that is or will be oriented towards the top surface (the sky, e.g. the open air), ‘bottom’ refers to the portion of the beam that is or will be oriented towards the ground surface (the earth, e.g. the patio floor), ‘outside’ refers to the portion of the beam that is or will be oriented away from the roof, i.e. away from the roof infill and ‘inside’ refers to the portion of the beam that is or will be oriented towards the inside of the roof, i.e. facing the roof infill.

[0070] The slat roof according to the present invention always comprises a fixed slat 14, i.e. a slat 14 that is neither rotatable nor slidable relative to the beams 3, 5. The present disclosure generally concerns the deflection of the fixed slat 14 and ways to ensure that the deflection of the fixed slat 14 is substantially the same as that of the adjacent slats 7. The deflection of these slats 7, 14 is not necessarily the same, e.g. as a result of a different design or choice of material, or as a result of a deviation within or outside the manufacturing tolerance, or as a result of an additional load exerted on the fixed slat 14, e.g. as a result of one or more functional components attached thereto.

[0071] Generally, each slat 7, 14 is arranged in the roof frame according to the principle of double bearing. In other words, each slat 7, 14 is connected at both its ends to the roof frame. This can be a fixed or movable, in particular rotatable, attachment. The length L of a slat 7, 14 is defined as the distance between its ends, viewed in the longitudinal direction 10 of the slat 7, 14. A slat 7, 14 can typically have a length of 2 to more than 5 m.

[0072] Several types of loads are possible on a slat 7, 14. First, there is the load due to the weight of the slat 7, 14. Such a load results in a deflection f that can be calculated via:

[0073] 5 * Q * L4f = - - -

[0074] 7384 * E * I wherein Q is the uniformly distributed load due to the weight expressed inN / m, E the modulus of elasticity of the material from which the slat is made (e.g., 70 GPa for aluminum and 210 GPa for steel), and I is the moment of inertia of the slat, which is determined by the slat's design, in particular its cross-sectional shape. Those skilled in the art are familiar with ways for calculating moment of inertia. The product of E * I is also referred to as the bending resistance.

[0075] The next type of load is a point load on the slat 7, 14. Such a point load on the center of the slat 7, 14 (seen in its longitudinal direction 10) results in a deflection f that can be calculated via: wherein P the point load is expressed in N. Other locations for the point load (e.g., not in the center of the slat) are also possible, and the skilled person is expected to be able to calculate the resulting deflection f. The present invention aims to provide a slat roof, wherein the difference in deflection between the fixed slat 14 and the adjacent slats 7 can be minimized by the presence of one or more integrated and / or attached components in and / or on the fixed slat 7. In Figures 2A through 3B, three adjacent slats 7, 14 are shown in each case. In each case, the central fixed slat 14 is the one on which an additional load is exerted by the aforementioned integrated and / or attached components.

[0076] A functional component 15 is shown schematically in Figure 2A. According to the present invention, this functional component 15 is directly attached to the fixed slat 14, specifically to its bottom. The precise method of attaching the functional component 15 to the fixed slat 14 is immaterial for the purposes of the present invention. A number of options are: a flange with a cable inside the transverse slat from which the functional component 15 hangs; wire connection means that engage with their heads on the inside of the transverse slat and with their wires in the functional component 15 (or vice versa); gluing the functional component 15 to the bottom of the transverse slat; etc.

[0077] A non-exhaustive list of possible functional components 15 is: a heating element, lighting, such as LED lighting, an audio element, such as a loudspeaker, an imaging element, such as a screen and / or a projector, communication means, such as Bluetooth or WiFi, a sensor, such as a rain sensor, wind sensor, or an incident light sensor, a power generating means, a ventilation element, such as a fan, etc.

[0078] The present invention is based on providing an elongated core 13 that is separately inserted into and extends through the fixed slat 14. At at least one location between the ends of the slat 14, height-adjustable connecting means 20 are provided between the fixed slat 14 and the elongated core 13. These means 20 allow the height distance 12 between the fixed slat 14 and the elongated core 13 to be adjusted. This allows the deflection of the fixed slat 12 to be adjusted to match the deflection of the adjacent slats 7.

[0079] There are various options for attaching the elongated core 13 and / or the fixed slat 12 to the beams 3. In a first embodiment, shown in Figure 5A, the core 13 is inserted into the fixed slat 14 and carried by two support elements 16 (one at each end of the core 13) which rest directly on the lower longitudinal wall of the slat 14. The fixed slat 14 is closed at the ends by end walls 17 which serve for attachment to the beams 3. The support elements 16 provide a point load on the longitudinal walls of the slat 14, but this has virtually no influence on the deflection of the slat 4. The point load is so close to the attachment of the slat 14 to the roof frame (i.e. the beams 3) that there is virtually no additional deflection.

[0080] In a second embodiment, shown in Figure 5B, the core 13 is directly supported by the headboards 18 which close off the fixed slat 12 at the ends and serve for attachment to the beams 3. In this way, there is no load from the core 13 on the fixed slat 14.

[0081] Both embodiments shown allow the elongated core 13 to be mounted floating relative to the slat 14. In other words, there is a space (in the height direction 12) between the elongated core 13 and the longitudinal walls, in particular the lower longitudinal wall, of the slat 12. This space between the elongated core 13 and the lower longitudinal wall of the slat 14 is, for example, at least 1 mm, preferably at least 2 mm, more preferably 4 mm and most preferably at least 5 mm and is at most 20 mm, preferably at most 15 mm and more preferably at most 10 mm.

[0082] A first embodiment of the height-adjustable connecting means 20 is shown in Figures 3A and 3B. In this embodiment, the connecting means 20 comprise a pressure plate 21 (i.e., a first contact means) resting on the top of the core 13, a plurality of threaded connecting means 22 (i.e., a control means) extending through the pressure plate 21 , slat wall portions 24 (i.e., a second contact means) into which the threaded portions of the connecting means 22 are received, and a threaded connecting means 23 between the core 13 and the pressure plate 21 . In another embodiment, separate tension walls are provided into which the connecting means 22 are received and which abut the slat wall portions on the bottom. A rotation of the connecting means 22 about their axis thus causes a shift of the walls 21 , 24 relative to each other in the height direction 12 and thus allows the fixed slat 14 to be pulled upwards relative to the core 13. The additional deflection caused by the functional component 15, which locally bends the fixed slat 14 downwards, can thus be compensated for by tightening the connecting means 22. In other words, the connecting means 20 allow the bottom of the fixed slat 14 to be pulled upwards such that it would be aligned with the adjacent slats 7 in Figure 3A.

[0083] In the embodiment shown in Figures 2A through 3B, the adjustable connecting means 20 are located centrally in the slat 14 in the longitudinal direction 10. This is because deflection is typically at its maximum there. However, they can be placed anywhere along the fixed slat 14. Multiple adjustable connecting means 20 can also be placed along the length of the fixed slat 14. In the embodiment shown in Figures 2A through 3B, the adjustable connecting means 20 are located centrally in the slat 14 in the transverse direction 11 . This reduces the risk of torsional effects. Preferably, the placement of the adjustable connecting means 20 corresponds to that of the functional components 15.

[0084] Figures 3A and 3B further show that the fixed slat 14 is provided with upright side walls 25. These define a cavity 28 that can be closed at the top with a closing profile (not shown) that engages in the connecting channels 26, for example, by means of a click connection. Such a closed cavity 28 shields the adjustable connecting means 20 from the outside environment.

[0085] According to the invention, the elongated core 13 is more rigid than the slat 14. This is so that an adjustment of the adjustable connecting means 20 has a greater effect on the deflection of the slat 14 than on the deflection of the core 13. A rigid core 13 can be achieved, for example, by increasing the moment of inertia of the elongated core 10, but is more easily achieved by adjusting the material of the elongated core 13. For example, the elongated core 13 can be made of steel, which typically has a modulus of elasticity of 210 GPa , which is much higher than aluminum (modulus of elasticity of 70 GPa ), from which the slat 12 is typically made. Figures 4A through 4E show alternative embodiments of the height- adjustable connecting means 20. In these figures, the control means 22 is shown in black. In each embodiment, the fixed slat 14 is identical, but it should be understood that variations in design are also possible.

[0086] In Figure 4A, the shape of core 13 has been modified, compared to Figure 3A. This allows for varying its bending resistance. The shape of pressure plate 21 has been modified accordingly. Rotating the adjusting bolts 22 causes the pressure plate 21 to shift relative to the slat wall sections 24.

[0087] In Figure 4B, compared to Figure 4A, the design of the pressure plate 21 has been modified to be identical to that in Figure 3A. The main modification, however, is that the pressure plate 21 is fixedly attached to the fixed slat 14 by means of fixing elements 23 that engage the slat wall portions 24. The control means 22 is shaped as an adjusting screw between two plate parts 27, 28 located on either side of the pressure plate 21 . The adjusting screw 22 cannot therefore shift relative to the pressure plate 21. A wire (not shown) on the adjusting screw engages the core 13. Rotation of the control means 22 therefore regulates the height of the fixed slat 14 relative to the core 13.

[0088] Figure 4C uses the same arrangement as Figure 4B, but with the core 13 shaped like that in Figure 3A. This design also means that the pressure plate 21 requires an upwardly shifted part to ensure sufficient space between the pressure plate 21 and the core 13 to allow for a shift.

[0089] In Figure 4A, the design of the control means 22 has been modified compared to Figure 3A. Specifically, similar to Figures 4B and 4C, two plate parts 27, 28 are provided, which border the top and bottom of the pressure plate 21 . This allows for more robust control in both directions compared to a control means without the plate parts 27, 28.

[0090] In Figure 4E, the shape of core 13 has been modified compared to Figure 4D. This allows for varying its bending resistance.

[0091] While certain aspects of the present invention have been described with respect to specific embodiments, it is understood that these aspects may be implemented in other forms within the scope of protection as defined by the claims.

Claims

Claims1 . Slat roof for a terrace canopy (1 ), wherein the slat roof is provided with: a frame (3, 5), comprising a first beam and a second beam, which are mutually substantially parallel and extend in a first direction (8); a set of mutually parallel slats (7), positioned between and rotatably attached to the beams, wherein the slats extend in a longitudinal direction (10) which is substantially perpendicular to the first direction; a fixed slat (14), positioned between the beams and extending in the longitudinal direction between a first end and a second end, which fixed slat has a first bending resistance; and an elongated core (13), extending through the fixed slat in the longitudinal direction between two ends and directly or indirectly supported by the beams, wherein the fixed core has a second bending resistance that is higher than the first bending resistance and wherein, in a height direction (12) which is substantially perpendicular to the first direction and the longitudinal direction, there is a distance between a bottom of the elongated core and a bottom of the fixed slat, characterized in that: on at least one location between the ends of the elongated core, height-adjustable connecting means (20) are provided between the elongated core and the fixed slat, which are configured to control the distance between the bottom of the elongated core and a bottom of the fixed slat; and the fixed slat is configured for attaching thereto a functional component (15), selected from a plurality of mutually different functional components.

2. The slat roof according to claim 1 , characterised in that said adjustable connecting means comprise a control means (22, 23) that is configured to exert an adjustable force on the fixed slat for attracting orpushing the fixed slat towards or away from the elongated core in the height direction.

3. The slat roof according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that said adjustable connecting means comprise: a first contact means (21 ) which makes contact with the elongated core; a second contact means (24) which makes contact with the fixed slat; and a control means (22), disposed between the contact means that are configured to exert an adjustable force to the contact means for pushing them apart or pulling them together.

4. The slat roof according to claim 3, characterised in that the first contact means comprises a plate-shaped element which rests on a top side of the elongated core and the second contact means comprises at least one wall part of the fixed slat.

5. The slat roof according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterised in that said control means comprises a screw body rotatable about its longitudinal axis.

6. The slat roof according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that such height-adjustable connecting means are disposed between the elongated core and the fixed slat at a plurality of locations between the ends of the elongated core.

7. The slat roof according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the fixed slat is provided with a cavity (28), wherein the elongated core extends through the cavity.

8. The slat roof according to claim 7, characterised in that said cavity is delimited by at least two upright side walls (25), wherein at least one side wall, preferably both side walls, are provided with a wall extending in the longitudinal direction within the cavity which forms part of said adjustable connecting means.

9. The slat roof according to claim 8, characterised in that the elongated core is provided with a longitudinally extending wall which forms part of said adjustable connecting means and which at least partially overlaps with said longitudinally extending wall.

10. The slat roof according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the slat roof further comprises said functional component which is attached to the fixed slat.

11. The slat roof according to claim 10, characterised in that the functional component comprises one or more of: a heating element, lighting, such as LED lighting, an audio element, such as a loudspeaker, an imaging element, such as a screen and / or projector, communication means, such as Bluetooth or WiFi, a sensor, such as a rain sensor, wind sensor, or a light sensor, a power-generating means, a ventilation element, such as a fan.

12. The slat roof according to claim 10 or 11 , characterised in that such adjustable connecting means are positioned at least near the attachment of the functional component to the fixed slat.

13. The slat roof according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that, near each end of the elongated core, a support element (16, 18) is provided, which support elements support the elongated core and connect it directly or indirectly to the frame.

14. Terrace canopy (1 ), comprising a slat roof according to any one of the preceding claims.

15. A kit of parts for constructing a slat roof according to any one of claims 1 to 13, the set comprising: the frame (3, 5), the set of slats (7), the fixed slat (14), the elongated core (13) and a plurality of mutually different functional components (15).

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