[0001] The invention relates to a sun protection device provided with a sun blocking part
and a supporting part for supporting the sun blocking part, wherein the sun blocking
part preferably comprises a screen that can be slid in and slid out.
[0002] Known sun protection devices for verandas are provided with a supporting part and
a sun blocking part. The sun blocking part usually comprises a screen that is intended
to offer protection against the sun. Such sun protection devices may be constructed
with a screen that can be slid in and slid out along side guides. By sliding the screen
in and out, known sun protection devices can to a certain extent be adjusted to weather
conditions. When the sun disappears behind the clouds, the screen can, for example,
be slid away, and when the sun comes back, the screen can be slid back. Sun protection
devices with a screen that cannot be slid in and out lack this adjustment possibility.
[0003] Because the position of the sun varies during the day, the known sun protection device
will offer optimum protection against the sun only during a part of the day. The fact
is, even with a wholly slid-out screen, it can easily happen that the known screen
does not offer adequate protection against a low sun. This can be quite a nuisance
to a user who, under the screen, finds the low sun annoyingly shining on him.
[0004] It is therefore an object of the invention to provide an improved sun protection
device for a veranda that obviates one or more disadvantages of known sun protection
devices for verandas. Another object of the invention is to provide an alternative
to known sun protection devices for verandas, to offer a consumer an option.
[0005] To that end, the invention provides a sun protection device, provided with a sun
blocking part and a supporting part for supporting the sun blocking part, wherein
the sun blocking part preferably comprises a screen that can be slid in and slid out,
wherein the supporting part comprises at least a first support element and a second
support element which are immovably connected with each other and extend in mutually
different directions along the sun blocking part, wherein the sun blocking part is
tiltably connected to the supporting part according to a tilting axis, which extends
between two mutually spaced apart points of which a first point is associated with
the first support element and a second point is associated with the second support
element. As the sun blocking part can be tilted with respect to the supporting part,
it can be adjusted to the position of the sun. As a result, the sun protection device
offers protection from the sun during a relatively large part of a sunny day, without
the dimensions of the sun protection device needing to be enlarged for this purpose.
[0006] The two mutually spaced apart points are preferably chosen for reducing, and preferably
minimizing, a moment that the weight of the sun blocking part exerts on attachments
of the sun blocking part to the supporting part.
[0007] Directions that are not in line with each other in a straight line can be regarded
as mutually different directions.
[0008] The sun protection device additionally offers a surprising advantage. By tilting
the sun blocking part, unwanted material, such as rainwater or leaves, can be removed
from the sun protection device. Such removal can occur in that the unwanted material
of itself falls off the sun blocking part. Also, by tilting, the unwanted material
may be better accessible, so that it can be removed, for example, using a broom, garden
hose and/or high pressure cleaner.
[0009] Preferably, the sun blocking part comprises a screen that can be slid in, and for
example pulled in, and can be slid out, and for example pulled out. In this embodiment,
the sun protection device is considered to be particularly advantageous. The fact
is, many sliding screens are sensitive to the unwanted material that may be left on
the screen. When sliding the screen in, for example, water may be entrained, causing
the screen to remain wet for a long time. As a result, the quality of the screen may
deteriorate rapidly. Also, the unwanted material may soil means for sliding the screen
in and out. This may compromise the proper functioning of these means, such as windup
means and side guides for the screen.
[0010] In an embodiment, the first point coincides with the first support element and a
second point coincides with the second support element. It will be clear that in this
manner the first point is associated with the first support element and a second point
is associated with the second support element. However, other associations of the
first and second point with the first support element and the second support element,
respectively, are also possible. For instance, the first point may be located in line
with the first support element, preferably near the first support element. Analogously,
the second point may be located in line with the second support element, preferably
near the second support element.
[0011] Preferably, the sun blocking part is situated at least partly between the two mutually
spaced apart points. As a result, a moment that the weight of the sun blocking part
exerts on the attachments of the sun blocking part to the supporting part will be
reduced.
[0012] In an embodiment, the mutually different directions in which the first and second
support element extend are directed transversely to each other. In another embodiment,
the mutually different directions in which the first and second support element extend
are directed substantially parallel to each other. Optionally, the mutually different
directions in which the first and second support element extend are directed obliquely
to each other.
[0013] Preferably, the first support element and the second support element are formed by
substantially horizontally extending girders. Such substantially horizontally extending
girders, in use, make, for example, an angle of at most 30 degrees with the horizontal.
With such substantially horizontally extending girders, a sturdy support of the sun
blocking part can be achieved.
[0014] Preferably, the first support element and the second support element are included
in a framework formed by the supporting part, which framework, preferably wholly,
surrounds the sun blocking part. Such a framework results in a construction of great
sturdiness. "Wholly surrounding" is involved when the framework forms an all-round
closed periphery around the sun blocking part. "Surrounding" is already involved when
the framework surrounds the sun blocking part in part, though for a substantial part.
The framework then forms, for example, a minimum of 80 percent of the fully closed
periphery around the sun blocking part. The framework can comprise, for example, four,
such as just four, substantially horizontal girders. The framework, and preferably
the four girders, can extend, for example, in one plane. In the plane, the framework,
and preferably the four girders, can form, for example, a rectangle, a trapezium or
a parallelogram. Alternatively, the framework can form a triangle. The plane in which
the framework, and preferably the four girders, extends, is, for example, with the
sun blocking part in untilted situation, (approximately) parallel to a plane in which
the sun blocking part extends.
[0015] In an embodiment, the framework comprises a tubular section of preferably rectangular
cross section. The tubular section can form an inner surface of the framework, which
inner surface faces the sun blocking part. The first and the second point, between
which the tilting axis extends, can then be located, for example, on the inner surface
of the tubular section.
[0016] Preferably, the sun blocking part has at least two ends by which it is tiltably connected
to the supporting part at the two mutually spaced apart points.
[0017] In an embodiment, the at least two ends are formed by corners of the sun blocking
part. The ends can be formed, for example, by opposite corners of the sun blocking
part, for example, when the sun blocking part has at least four corners. Alternatively,
the at least two ends are formed by adjacent corners. Between adjacent corners no
other corner is located. In this manner, during tilting, the sun blocking part will
move practically wholly in the same direction, for example, upwards or downwards.
This makes tilting straightforward, which can prevent accidents.
[0018] In an embodiment, the at least two ends are formed by different longitudinal edges
of the sun blocking part. Preferably, the at least two ends are opposite longitudinal
edges. Opposite longitudinal edges are involved when the shortest path between the
longitudinal edges crosses the, preferably wholly slid-out, screen. The screen is
then between the opposite longitudinal edges. By tilting the sun blocking part in
this embodiment, parts of the sun blocking part can move in different directions during
tilting. One part can move, for example, upwards during tilting, while an opposite
part can move downwards. In this way, a relatively large angle of tilt can be achieved.
This enlarges, for example, possibilities of adjusting the position of the sun blocking
part to a position of the sun. Also, unwanted material can be removed better from
the downwardly moving part because the user can reach it better.
[0019] Preferably, the sun protection device is adapted for, at will of the user, tilting
the sun blocking part in one of at least two different directions. By having tilting
in one direction followed by tilting in the other direction, both parts of the sun
blocking part can be reached better by the user.
[0020] Preferably, the sun blocking part is tiltable in a plane that is directed transversely
to a plane in which the sun blocking part extends. In this manner, an orientation
of the sun blocking part can be effectively adjusted to the position of the sun. The
fact is, in this manner it is possible to change an angle of the plane in which the
sun blocking part extends with respect to the sun, while the supporting part is at
rest.
[0021] The sun blocking part may, for example, in use be connected to the supporting part
so as to be tiltable in a substantially vertically oriented plane. Alternatively,
or additionally, the sun blocking part may, for example, in use be connected to the
supporting part so as to be tiltable in a substantially horizontally oriented plane.
It will be clear that these tilting possibilities in a substantially vertically and
horizontally oriented plane respectively, alone and in combination, are favorable
for achieving an effective protection against the sun.
[0022] Preferably, the sun protection device is provided with positioning means for setting
the angle of tilt of the sun blocking part with respect to the supporting part. User
convenience can thereby be augmented and a better control of the angle of tilt can
thereby be achieved.
[0023] Preferably, in use, the positioning means during setting of the angle of tilt operate
the sun blocking part by exertion of a force on the sun blocking part from the supporting
part. The supporting part offers a mechanically favorable point of application for
the force between the sun blocking part and the supporting part. Preferably, the supporting
part is provided with the positioning means.
[0024] Preferably, the sun blocking part is provided with at least one, and preferably two,
attachment points to which the positioning means, in use, are connected with the sun
blocking part. Preferably, the at least one attachment point is located at a distance
from the (imaginary) tilting axis and the first point that is associated with the
first support element and a second point that is associated with the second support
element. A moment on connections by which the sun blocking part is tiltably connected
to the supporting part is thereby reduced.
[0025] In an embodiment, the positioning means comprise a flexible element which is attached
to the at least one attachment point, the positioning means being adapted for setting
the angle of tilt of the sun blocking part with respect to the supporting part by
paying out and/or retracting the flexible element. The flexible element can be, for
example, a cord, a chain and/or a band.
[0026] In an embodiment, the positioning means further comprise a windup means, the windup
means being attached to the supporting part, while the flexible element can be unwound
from and wound onto the windup means, the positioning means being adapted for setting
an angle of tilt of the sun blocking part with respect to the supporting part by unwinding
and/or winding the flexible element on the windup means. The windup means can comprise,
for example, a rotatable element such as a roll.
[0027] Preferably, the flexible element is formed by a flexible sun protection cloth. This
can, at least partly, prevent sun shining in between the windup means and the sun
blocking part. Thus, a sun blocking action of the sun protection device can be improved.
Preferably, the at least one attachment point is situated along an edge of the sun
blocking part, such that the flexible sun protection cloth extends over a width that
is approximately equal to a width of the sun blocking part.
[0028] Preferably, the sun protection device is provided with a housing which substantially
encloses the windup means. In this way, the windup means can be protected from damage.
[0029] In an embodiment, the positioning means are adapted for setting a plurality of angles
of tilt of the sun blocking part with respect to the supporting part, the plurality
of angles of tilt being within a predetermined angular range. Preferably, the angle
of tilt is continuously adjustable within the predetermined angular range. Preferably,
the plurality of different angles of tilt are at least ten, and more preferably at
least fifty, different angles of tilt.
[0030] Preferably, the supporting part is provided with at least one leg, preferably at
least two legs, more preferably with four legs. With these, a sturdy support can be
achieved.
[0031] Preferably, at least one leg is, and preferably all legs are, removable from the
supporting part. This provides an enhanced flexibility and hence more possibilities
in placing the supporting part. Legs near any place of attachment of the supporting
part to another object, for example, a tree or fence, are sometimes redundant, so
that it is handy if they can be removed from the supporting part and, for example,
can be stored elsewhere.
[0032] In an embodiment, the sun protection device is provided with attachment means for,
preferably detachable, attachment of the supporting part to a shelter, such as a house,
a tent, a shed, or a caravan.
[0033] In an embodiment, the attachment means are adapted for attachment of the supporting
part according to, at will of the user, a first attachment or a second attachment,
while the substantially vertically oriented plane in the first attachment extends
in a first direction that differs from a second direction in which the substantially
vertically oriented plane in the second attachment extends.
[0034] In an embodiment, the supporting part as an awning is, preferably detachably, attached
to the shelter.
[0035] In an embodiment, the supporting part is, preferably detachably, attached by the
first and/or the second substantially horizontal girder to the shelter.
[0036] In an embodiment, the sun protection device is adapted to be placed on a veranda
and/or to be attached to the veranda.
[0037] In an embodiment, the supporting part is, preferably wholly, movable. Accordingly,
also the sun protection device is movable. Accordingly, at will of the user, the sun
protection device can be put in a place determined by the user. Accordingly, the sun
protection device can be optimally positioned for protecting the user against the
sun. The movable sun protection device can be placed, for example, in a better spot,
if the user chooses to sit in a different place.
[0038] Preferably, a size of the sun blocking part is chosen such that, in use, a sun blocking
surface of the sun blocking part is greater, for example, more than twice or more
than ten times greater, than a sun blocking surface of the supporting part, with the
sun blocking part preferably in wholly slid-out condition. Thus the sun blocking part,
in use, makes a greater protection possible than the supporting part alone.
[0039] Preferably, the sun protection device is adapted for, at will of a user, tilting
the sun blocking part from an untilted situation in one of at least two different
directions. This is especially relevant for the embodiment in which the at least two
ends are opposite ends. As a result, a part of the sun blocking part that in one tilting
direction moves up and is higher than in an untilted situation, can in the other tilting
direction move down and be lower than in an untilted situation.
[0040] Preferably, the sun protection device, provided with the supporting part, is further
substantially free of obstacles that in use render a free access to a space under
the sun blocking part more difficult. This augments a user convenience of the sun
blocking part.
[0041] In an embodiment, the sun blocking part is provided with at least one attachment
section, preferably a plurality of attachment sections. Such attachment sections are
preferably detachably connected with different elements, such as the girders and the
legs, of the supporting part. The attachment sections afford a user the possibility
of detaching and/or individually replacing the different elements of the supporting
part. Preferably, the attachment section is slid into and/or over one or two of the
different elements, and the attachment section is thereupon connected, optionally
detachably with, for example, screws, to the one or two different elements. With the
aid of the attachment section, preferably at least two of the different elements are
mutually interconnected.
[0042] In an embodiment, the supporting part is provided with at least one coupling piece
which comprises at least two, preferably three, attachment sections that are mutually
interconnected and extend in different, preferably mutually perpendicular, directions.
[0043] In an embodiment, at least one, and preferably all, of the attachment sections of
the coupling piece are detachably coupled with each other.
[0044] In an embodiment, the attachment sections of the coupling piece are angle-adjustably
connected with each other.
[0045] Preferably, the first support element and the second support element are connected
with each other and/or with other elements of the framework by means of the at least
one coupling piece.
[0046] Preferably, the at least one attachment section of the at least one coupling piece
is slid into and/or over the first support element and/or the second support element.
[0047] In an embodiment, the framework has a number of corner points, while on or near each
corner point there is one of the coupling pieces.
[0048] Preferably, the at least one leg comprises, and/or preferably all legs comprise,
a foot. With the aid of the foot, a support of the leg to which the foot is connected
can be improved. This may be especially important when the leg is placed on a soft
or relatively unstable ground, such as clay or sand. Preferably, the foot is detachably
connected to a main part of the leg. Accordingly, the foot can, for example, be replaced
separately from the main part of the leg. As a result, for example, the foot can be
relatively easily adapted to the ground on which the leg is placed. Preferably, the
foot is detachably connected with a main part of the leg by means of the at least
one attachment section.
[0049] The invention also relates to use of the sun protection device.
[0050] To that end, the invention provides use of a sun protection device according to the
invention as carport and/or above a veranda and/or a terrace. For these three possibilities
of use, it is favorable that the sun blocking part is tiltable, so that it can be
adjusted better to the position of the sun. Also, these three possibilities of use
can benefit from one or more advantages of one or more embodiments of the sun protection
device. The three possibilities of use can benefit, for example, from the embodiment
where the sun protection device, optionally provided with at least one leg, is further
substantially free of obstacles that in use render a free access to a space under
the sun blocking part more difficult. As a result, the veranda and/or the carport
and/or the terrace will be better accessible.
[0051] The invention will now be described more in detail with reference to the, non-limiting,
drawings, wherein:
Fig. 1 shows an overall view of a sun protection device, in which a sun blocking part
is not tilted and a screen of the sun blocking part that can be slid in and out is
in a slid-in condition;
Fig. 2 shows an overall view of the sun protection device, in which a sun blocking
part is tilted and a screen of the sun blocking part that can be slid in and out is
in a slid-in condition;
Fig. 3 shows a side view of the sun protection device, with a sun blocking part tilted;
Fig. 3A shows a side view of the sun protection device attached against a wall of
a house or a shed;
Fig. 3B shows a top plan view of a first attachment of a sun protection device with
respect to a shelter;
Fig. 3C shows a top plan view of a second attachment of a sun protection device with
respect to a shelter;
Fig. 4 shows a detail of positioning means, with a sun blocking part not tilted;
Fig. 5 shows a detail of the positioning means, with the sun blocking part tilted;
Fig. 6A shows a side view of a sun protection device in a second embodiment;
Fig. 6B is a top plan view of the sun protection device in the second embodiment;
Fig. 7A shows a side view of a sun protection device in a third embodiment;
Fig. 7B is a top plan view of the sun protection device in the third embodiment;
Fig. 8A shows a side view of a sun protection device in a fourth embodiment;
Fig. 8B is a top plan view of the sun protection device in the fourth embodiment;
Fig. 9A shows a side view of a sun protection device in a fifth embodiment;
Fig. 9B is a top plan view of the sun protection device in the fifth embodiment;
Fig. 10 shows a view of a sun protection device in a sixth embodiment according to
the invention;
Fig. 11 shows a transparent view of an, in use lower, part of a first leg;
Fig. 12 shows a first attachment section;
Fig. 13 shows a transparent top plan view of a first detail of Fig. 10;
Fig. 14 shows an example in which a second, third, and fourth attachment section are
mutually interconnected;
Fig. 15 shows a transparent view of a second detail of Fig. 10;
Figs. 16A and 16B show a third coupling piece;
Fig. 17 shows a longitudinal section of the sun protection device in the sixth embodiment;
and
Fig. 18 shows a sun protection device in a seventh embodiment according to the invention.
[0052] Unless stated otherwise, in the drawings similar reference numerals are used for
similar elements.
[0053] Figs. 1, 2 and 3 show a sun protection device 2 in a first embodiment according to
the invention. Such a sun protection device is suitable for use above a veranda. The
sun protection device 2 is provided with a sun blocking part 4 and a supporting part
6 for supporting the sun blocking part 4.
[0054] The supporting part 6 here forms a framework 5 which wholly surrounds the sun blocking
part 4, and so extends along the sun blocking part 4. The framework 5 in this example
comprises four horizontal girders, viz. a first horizontal girder 5A, a second horizontal
girder 5B, a third horizontal girder 5C, and a fourth horizontal girder 5D. These
are immovably connected with each other and extend along the sun blocking part 4 in
four different directions, indicated with arrows P
1, P
2, P
3, and P
4, respectively. It will be clear that other constructions of the framework 5 are also
possible. For instance, the framework 5 can have a different, non-rectangular, shape.
Examples of this include a trapezium shape, a parallelogram shape, and a triangular
shape such as will be described hereinafter with reference to Figs. 9A and 9B. Another
example of this is a circular shape or oval shape such as will be described hereinafter
with reference to Figs. 8A and 8B. Also, the framework can comprise a different number
than four girders, for example, three girders (Figs. 9A and 9B) or more than four
girders, such as five or six girders.
[0055] In the first embodiment, the framework 5 forms an all-round closed perimeter, and
wholly surrounds the sun blocking part 4. If there were, for example, a relatively
small interruption in one of the girders, the perimeter would be interrupted and the
framework 5 would partly surround the sun blocking part. It will further be clear
that the dimensions of the supporting part can be adapted to dimensions of the veranda
and/or to needs of a user of the sun protection device 2.
[0056] Each of the first horizontal girder 5A, the second horizontal girder 5B, the third
horizontal girder 5C, and the fourth horizontal girder 5D can be taken as a first
support element. Another one of the first horizontal girder 5A, the second horizontal
girder 5B, the third horizontal girder 5C, and the fourth horizontal girder 5D can
then be taken as a second support element. It will thus be clear that in this example
the supporting part 6 comprises at least the first support element and the second
support element, and that the first support element and the second support element
are included in the framework 5 that is formed by the supporting part 6.
[0057] The first support element and the second support element extend in mutually different
directions along the sun blocking part. These different directions can cross each
other, intersect each other or be parallel to each other. The different directions
can be, for example, transverse to each other (such as the fourth direction P
4 in which the fourth girder 5D extends and the third direction P
3 in which the third girder 5C extends). Alternatively, the different directions can
be directed parallel to each other at a lateral distance from each other (such as
the directions of the second girder 5B and the fourth girder 5D).
[0058] The sun blocking part 4 is tiltably connected to the framework 5. Fig. 1 shows an
overall view of the sun protection device 2, in which the sun blocking part 4 is not
tilted and a screen 8 of the sun blocking part 4 that can be slid in and out is in
a slid-in condition. Fig. 2 shows an overall view of the sun protection device 2,
in which the sun blocking part 4 is tilted. Fig. 3 shows a side view of the sun protection
device 2, in which the sun blocking part 4 is tilted.
[0059] The sun blocking part 4 is tiltably connected to the supporting part 6 according
to a tilting axis, which extends between two mutually spaced apart points of which
a first point 3A is associated with the first support element (here the fourth horizontal
girder 5D) and a second point 3B is associated with the second support element (here
the second horizontal girder 5B). In this example, the framework 5 has a tubular section
of rectangular cross section, and the tubular section forms an inner surface 19 of
the framework, which inner surface faces the sun blocking part. In this example, the
first and the second point, between which the tilting axis extends, are on the inner
surface 19 of the tubular section.
[0060] Preferably, the first support element and the second support element, in particular
the framework 5, more particularly the supporting part 6, remain at rest during tilting.
This holds for all embodiments described. A tiltable connection of the sun blocking
part 4 with the framework 5 at the first point 3A and a second point 3B can be achieved,
for example, with the aid of pivots and bearings in which the pivots can rotate. The
pivots may be attached, for example, to the sun blocking part, while the bearings
may be attached to the framework 5. The first and second point 3A, 3B then, for example,
coincide with the bearings. Such pivots and bearings are not depicted in Figs. 1 to
5, but are visible in Figs. 6A, 6B, 7A, 7B, 8A, 8B, 9A and 9B, indicated with reference
numerals 25 and 26, respectively. The imaginary tilting axis then extends, for example,
between the bearings 25. An example of the tilting axis is shown in Fig. 6B with reference
numeral 40. As an alternative to the pivots and the bearings, hinges may be used (not
depicted but conventional). These can form a tiltable connection between the sun blocking
part 4 and the supporting part 6, in particular between the sun blocking part 4 and
the framework 5 of the supporting part 6. Other tiltable connections known per se
can also be used.
[0061] The sun blocking part 4 can be provided with at least one, and preferably two, attachment
points to which the positioning means in use are connected with the sun blocking part.
These attachment points may be located on the frame 12, at a distance from the tilting
axis. A first and a second of these attachment points are indicated with reference
numerals 15A and 15B, respectively, in Figs. 2, 3 and 5. A connection of the sun blocking
part 4 with the framework 5 can be achieved, for example, with the aid of a flexible
element 16 which is windably and unwindably connected to the framework 5 and to the
attachment points 15A, 15B on the frame 12 of the sun blocking part 4.
[0062] It will hence be clear that the two mutually spaced apart points in the first embodiment
are distributed over both the first support element and the second support element.
In this example, for instance, the first point 3A is located on the fourth girder
5D and so is associated with the fourth girder 5D, and the second point 3B is located
on the second girder 5B and so is associated with the second girder 5B. It will further
be clear that the sun blocking part 4 is situated here between the first point 3A
and the second point 3B.
[0063] Generally, the supporting part 6 is provided with one or more legs. In the first
embodiment, the supporting part 6 is provided with four legs, viz., a first leg 7A,
a second leg 7B, a third leg 7C, and a fourth leg 7D. With the four legs 7A, 7B, 7C,
7D a firm support of the sun protection device 2 can be obtained. From a mechanical
viewpoint, the four legs 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D combine well with the four girders 5A, 5B,
5C, 5D. More generally, preferably the number of legs is equal to the number of girders.
[0064] With only one leg, already a reasonably firm support can be achieved, for example,
when the only one leg is firmly attached to the ground. The only one leg may, for
example, be dug into the ground, be weighted, e.g., with an additional weight, and/or
be provided with a foot. A supporting part with only one leg can comprise bearing
elements such as aluminum tubes which connect the leg with the framework 5. Preferably,
such bearing elements are so positioned as not to hinder the tilting of the sun blocking
part 4.
[0065] It will be clear that the first, second, third, and fourth leg 7A, 7B, 7C, and 7D
may also be dug in, be weighted, and/or be provided with the foot. For achieving a
firm support, such measures, while useful, are not strictly necessary when four legs
are present.
[0066] The supporting part 6 may be attached as an awning to a shelter, such as a house,
a tent, a shed, or a caravan. Fig. 3A shows, as an example, a side view of the sun
protection device 2 attached against a wall 11 of the house or the shed. Fig. 3A further
shows the veranda 13. The supporting part 6 can be configured for such attachment.
To this end, the supporting part 6 can be provided with first holes suitable for inserting
bolts therethrough. With these bolts the supporting part can then be connected to
the house or the shed. Figs. 1 and 2 show with reference numerals 9A and 9B examples
of the first holes in the supporting part 6. The supporting part can thus be attached
according to a first attachment with a first side 11A (Fig. 3) against a wall of the
house or the shed. Alternatively, or additionally, the first holes 9A, 9B may be provided
in a girder of the supporting part 6, for example, the first horizontal girder 5A.
In that case, it is possible to omit the first leg 7A and the second leg 7B, so that
a supporting part with only two legs (in this case the third leg 7C and the fourth
leg 7D) is obtained. A top plan view of this form of the first attachment of the sun
protection device 2 with respect to the shelter is shown in Fig. 3B.
[0067] Analogously to such an attachment of the sun protection device 2 with the first side
11A facing the shelter, the supporting part may be configured for a second attachment
to the shelter with a second side 11B (Figs. 1 and 2) facing the shelter. To this
end, the supporting part 6 may be provided, for example in the first leg 7A and in
the fourth leg 7D, with second holes 9C, 9D, alternatively or additionally to the
first holes 9A, 9B, suitable for inserting bolts therethrough. Alternatively, or additionally,
the second holes 9C, 9D may be provided in a girder of the supporting part 6, for
example, the fourth horizontal girder 5D. In that case, it is possible to omit the
first leg 7A and the fourth leg 7D, so that a supporting part with just two legs (in
this case, the second leg 7B and the third leg 7C) is obtained. A top plan view of
this form of the second attachment of the sun protection device 2 with respect to
the shelter is shown in Fig. 3C.
[0068] In all examples shown, the sun blocking part is tiltable in a first plane 32 which
is directed transversely to a second plane (not depicted in Figs. 1-5 but visible
in Figs. 6A and 9A with reference numeral 34) in which the sun blocking part extends.
Cross sections of the first plane 32 in a direction perpendicular to the first plane
32 are indicated, in addition to Figs. 3B and 3C, in Figs. 6A, 7A, 7B, 8B and 9B.
In these examples, the first plane 32 is substantially vertically oriented.
[0069] More in general, the supporting part 6 is preferably provided with attachment means,
which comprise, for example, the first holes 9A, 9B and/or the second holes 9C, 9D,
for attachment of the supporting part 6 to the shelter. Preferably, the attachment
means are adapted for attachment of the supporting part to the shelter with the first
side 11A or the second side 11B, preferably at will of the user, facing the shelter.
Thus the attachment means are adapted for attachment of the supporting part according
to, at will of the user, the first attachment or the second attachment, with the substantially
vertically oriented plane 32 in the first attachment extending in a first direction
that differs from a second direction in which the substantially vertically oriented
plane 32 in the second attachment extends. In the example described, the user has
such a choice if both the first holes 9A, 9B and the second holes 9C, 9D in the supporting
part, in particular in the legs of the supporting part and/or in a girder of the supporting
part, are present. Such a choice is very handy. Many shelters are, for example, oriented
differently with respect to the sun, so that for different shelters attachment by
a different side to the shelter may be necessary. If a sun protection device is configured
for such different attachments, fewer different types of the sun protection device
can suffice. This entails lower costs of production and logistics. What is more, for
example, in this manner a tilting direction can be chosen that is most suitable for
removing unwanted material, such as rainwater, dirt, and/or leaves, from the sun blocking
part. As the side by which the supporting part is attached to, or oriented towards,
the shelter can be chosen with respect to the plane 32 in which the sun blocking part
can be tilted, the unwanted material can be prevented from coming down, as a result
of tilting, at an undesirable spot. Such undesirable spots will vary from one shelter
to another, so that this choice can be important.
[0070] An advantage of the use of the bolts, or other screw means, in combination with the
first or second holes, is that these can provide a detachable connection with the
house or the shed. Clearly, other detachable connecting means can be used. For attachment
to the tent or the caravan, for example, the use of lines is considered suitable.
This can prevent undesirable displacement or even tipping over of the sun protection
device 2, for example as a result of a storm with strong gusts of wind.
[0071] Alternatively, or additionally, to attachment of the sun protection device 2 to the
shelter, the sun protection device may be attached to the veranda. This can be done
with detachable connecting means known per se, for attachment to the veranda.
[0072] If the attachment of the supporting part to the shelter is sturdy enough, for example,
when use is made of the bolts, the supporting part may even be free of the first,
second, third and fourth leg 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, although one or more legs, such as the
two legs, for example, the third leg 7C and the fourth leg 7D, can enhance the sturdiness
of the supporting part, also when the supporting part is attached to the shelter.
It will be clear that, preferably, the supporting part can be removed from the shelter
again. This can be effected by making use of the detachable connection. Note that
the sun protection device 2 evidently can also be set up separately from the shelter.
[0073] In a variant, at least one and preferably all legs are removable from the supporting
part. This allows the above-mentioned variations of the number of legs, such as one
leg or two legs, to be achieved starting from a supporting part initially provided
with four legs. The legs being removable also renders the sun protection device 2
more easily transportable, which may be of great practical use to the user. Connections,
such as screwable connections, by which the legs can be removably attached are known
per se to those skilled in the art, so that a further description is considered superfluous.
[0074] In each of the embodiments described, the supporting part 6 can be made, at least
partly, of aluminum. This has as an advantage that a light construction can be achieved.
This is especially handy if the sun protection device 2 is designed to be movable,
because moving it then takes relatively little effort because of the relatively low
weight. Optionally, a lower part of the legs may be weighted. To that end, the lower
part can comprise, for example, a material having a relatively high density, such
as stainless steel or cast iron. Such weighting enhances the stability of the sun
protection device 2.
[0075] The sun blocking part 4 of the sun protection device 2 in the first embodiment comprises
the screen 8 that can be slid in and slid out. The screen 8 may be, for example, at
least partly of a woven material, such as textile. Alternatively, the screen 8 can
comprise a multiplicity of fixed segments which are connected tiltably with respect
to each other, for example, through a flexible band. Such variants of the screen 8
are known per se to those skilled in the art, so that a further description thereof
is considered superfluous. Typically, these screens are also provided with a moving
sealing section and a case or like housing in which the retracted screen can be received.
Such details are also known to those skilled in the art and do not require further
explanation here.
[0076] Figs. 1 and 2 show the screen 8 in a slid-in condition. The sun blocking part 4 may,
in general, be provided with the frame 12. The frame 12 can surround the screen 8.
In this example, the screen 8 can be slid in and slid out along a first side guide
10A and a second side guide 10B, which are arranged along the frame 12 of the sun
blocking part 4. With the sun blocking part 4 in non-tilted condition, in this example
the first side guide 10A and the second side guide 10B run parallel with the second
horizontal girder 5B and the fourth horizontal girder 5D, respectively.
[0077] There are provided different possibilities of allowing the screen to be slid in and
slid out. The sun protection device 2 may be provided, for example, with a cable-spring
system (not depicted). With such system, by means of cables that are connected with
the screen 8, a tensile force can be exerted on the screen. The screen 8 may, for
instance, in slid-in condition, be wound on a roll. By the tensile force, the screen
can then be unrolled and slid out. Such systems for sliding the screen 8 in and out
are known per se to those skilled in the art, so that a further description is considered
superfluous. Preferably, with the screen 8 in wholly slid-out condition, a substantially
rainproof seal between the screen 8 and the frame 12 is achieved. To this end, the
screen 8 may be provided with a sealing profile 17, which can comprise, for example,
a rubber strip.
[0078] Also, more generally, with the sun blocking part in non-tilted condition, preferably
a substantially rainproof seal is achieved between the sun blocking part 4 and the
supporting part 6, in particular the framework 5. To this end, the sun protection
device may be provided with sealing means, such as rubber strips, which are situated
between the supporting part 6 and the sun blocking part 4, with the sun blocking part
in non-tilted condition.
[0079] The sun protection device 2 may be provided with positioning means 14 for setting
an angle of tilt α of the sun blocking part 4 with respect to the supporting part
6. Figs. 4 and 5 show details of the positioning means 14. Fig. 4 shows a detail of
the positioning means 14, with the sun blocking part 4 not tilted. Fig. 5 shows a
detail of the positioning means 14, with the sun blocking part 4 tilted.
[0080] In the first embodiment, the positioning means 14 comprise the flexible element 16,
in this example a cord, such as a steel cable. The cord 16 is connected with the sun
blocking part 4, in this example with the frame 12 of the sun blocking part 4. The
positioning means 14 in this example further comprise a windup means 18, for example,
a roll. The windup means 18 is here attached to the supporting part 6. The flexible
element 16 is unwindable from and windable on the windup means 18 and is attached
to the attachment points 15A, 15B of the sun blocking part 4. In this example, the
positioning means 14 are adapted for setting the angle of tilt α of the sun blocking
part 4 with respect to the supporting part 6 by unwinding and/or winding the flexible
element 16 on the windup means. This may be done, for example, with the aid of a tube
motor (not depicted) which may be included in the windup means 18. Thus the positioning
means 14 can be configured for setting the angle of tilt α of the sun blocking part
4 with respect to the supporting part 6 by paying out and/or retracting the flexible
element 16. The windup means 18 in this example is mounted to the supporting part
6. It will then be clear that in this example the positioning means, in use, during
setting of the angle of tilt operate the sun blocking part 4 by exerting a force on
the sun blocking part from the supporting part 6.
[0081] The flexible element 16 and the windup means 18 can make it possible to realize,
within a predetermined angular range, a practically continuous range of angles of
tilt. The predetermined angular range then may be limited by a length of the flexible
element 16.
[0082] It will be clear that the sun blocking part 4 may also be operated in other ways
to tilt, for example with linkages and/or muscle power. The positioning means 14 may
also be provided, for example, with a spring or counterweight having such a strength
and mass, respectively, that tilting of the sun blocking part 4 is just prevented,
when no operation is taking place. As a result, the angle of tilt can be set stably,
and also a relatively small force is needed for tilting. With the aid of such a spring
or counterweight, the cord 16 can be pulled with the aid of the roll 18 when the tilt
of the sun blocking part 4 is being undone, for example, with the aid of muscle power.
[0083] In Figs. 1, 2, 4 and 5 there is also a housing 20 visible, which substantially encloses
the windup means 18. In the first embodiment the sun protection device 2 is provided
with the housing 20. It will be clear that in Figs. 4 and 5 the housing is shown partly
in cutaway view, so as to render the windup means 18 visible.
[0084] In Figs. 1 to 5, any point along a longitudinal edge of the sun blocking part 4,
which longitudinal edge in this example is formed by the frame 12, can be taken as
an end of the sun blocking part 4. Thus, it will be clear that the sun blocking part
4 has at least two ends. By these, it can be tiltably connected to the supporting
part 6 at the two mutually spaced apart points 3A, 3B. In Figs. 1 to 5 these at least
two ends can be adjacent corners, viz. a first corner 22A and a second corner 22B.
In addition, the sun blocking part in this example further has a third corner 22C
and a fourth corner 22D. In this example, the first and second corner 22A and 22B
are located along one and the same first longitudinal edge 24A of the sun blocking
part 4.
[0085] Figs. 6A, 6B, 7A, 7B, 8A, 8B, 9A and 9B show other examples of a tiltable connection
of the sun blocking part 4 and the supporting part 6, where the sun blocking part
4 is tiltably connected with the supporting part 6 in a different manner.
[0086] Figs. 6A and 6B show a sun protection device 2 in a second embodiment according to
the invention. Fig. 6A shows a side view of the sun protection device 2 in the second
embodiment. Fig. 6B shows a top plan view of the sun protection device 2 in the second
embodiment. Figs. 7A and 7B shows a sun protection device 2 in a third embodiment
according to the invention. Fig. 7A shows a side view of the sun protection device
2 in the third embodiment. Fig. 7B shows a top plan view of the sun protection device
2 in the third embodiment. Figs. 8A and 8B show a sun protection device 2 in a fourth
embodiment according to the invention. Fig. 8A shows a side view of the sun protection
device 2 in the fourth embodiment. Fig. 8B shows a top plan view of the sun protection
device 2 in the fourth embodiment. Figs. 9A and 9B shows a sun protection device 2
in a fifth embodiment according to the invention. Fig. 9A shows a side view of the
sun protection device 2 in the fifth embodiment. Fig. 9B shows a top plan view of
the sun protection device 2 in the fifth embodiment.
[0087] In the second, third, fourth and fifth embodiment, the sun protection device 2 is
provided with the sun blocking part 4 and with the supporting part 6. The sun blocking
part 4 is provided with the screen 8. In the second and third embodiment, the screen
8 is shown in wholly slid out condition. In the fourth and fifth embodiments, the
screen 8 cannot be slid in or out. The screen 8 may then be fixedly mounted in the
frame 12, or may be removable from the frame 12. Further, in the examples of Figs.
6A, 6B, 7A, 7B, 8A, 8B, 9A and 9B, the sun blocking part 4 is tiltably connected with
the supporting part 6 through pivots 25. The pivots are, for instance, fastened to
the frame 12 of the sun blocking part 4 and extend in bearings 26 which are included
in the framework 5 of the supporting part 6. It will be clear there are other ways
possible of tiltably attaching the sun blocking part 4 to the supporting part 6. in
the first embodiment, for example, besides an attachment with pivots 25 and bearings
26, also an attachment with a hinge is possible. This hinge may be attached to the
first longitudinal edge 24A of the sun blocking part 4 and to an adjacent girder,
in this example the first girder 5A, of the supporting part 6.
[0088] In the second and the fourth embodiment, the sun blocking part 4 is tiltably connected
to the supporting part 6 by two ends, viz., a first end 23A and a second end 23B,
which are opposite each other. In the second embodiment, the first end 23A and the
second end 23B are formed by opposite longitudinal edges, here a second longitudinal
edge 24B and a third longitudinal edge 24C, of the sun blocking part 4. In the fourth
embodiment, the first end 23A and the second end 23B, which are opposite each other,
are formed by one and the same fourth longitudinal edge 24D, which longitudinal edge
is curved.
[0089] In the third embodiment, the sun blocking part 4 is also tiltably connected by two
opposite ends with the supporting part 6. In this example, the ends are formed by
opposite corners, here the second corner 22B and the fourth corner 22D.
[0090] It will be clear that when the sun blocking part has two opposite ends by which it
is connected, at the two points between which the tilting axis 40 extends, to the
supporting part (as in the second, third and fourth embodiment), these two points
are then situated at a distance from each other. It will further be clear that in
that case the support elements on which these two points are located extend along
different directions. Mutually spaced apart points, however, can also be obtained
in a different manner, and may be located, for example, on one and the same curved
longitudinal edge.
[0091] In the fifth embodiment the supporting part 6 may be provided with the positioning
means 14 with the flexible element 16. In the fifth embodiment the sun blocking part
4 is triangular in shape. Such a shape may come in good stead, for example, in case
of a triangular veranda, or in case of a rectangular veranda above just a part of
which a user needs sun protection.
[0092] As can be seen in Figs. 6A and 7A, a first part 36 of the sun blocking part 4 can
move down during tilting, and a second part 38 of the sun blocking part 4 can move
up during tilting. It will be clear that the first part 36 and the second part 38
of the sun blocking part 4 in this example are separated by the (imaginary) tilting
axis 40, about which the sun blocking part 4 can be tilted in use.
[0093] More in general, it will be favorable when the weight of a part of the sun blocking
part 4 that from a non-tilted situation in use moves downwards during tilting is greater
than the weight of a part of the sun blocking part 4 that from a non-tilted situation
in use moves upwards during tilting, for example, when the positioning means of the
first embodiment (i.e., with the flexible element and the windup means) are used.
In this way, the flexible element remains tensioned in use and the angle of tilt α
is well-defined. Further, it will be favorable, as, for example, in the second, third
and fourth embodiment and independently of what positioning means are used, when the
weight of the first part 36 of the sun blocking part 4 that from a non-tilted situation
in use moves down during tilting is substantially equal to the weight of the second
part 38 of the sun blocking part 4 that from a non-tilted situation in use moves upwards
during tilting. As a result, a relatively small force is needed for tilting the sun
blocking part.
[0094] Fig. 10 shows a view of a sun protection device 2 in a sixth embodiment according
to the invention. The sun protection device 2 is provided with a sun blocking part
4 and a supporting part 6. In this example, the supporting part 6 is provided with
the first leg 7A, the second leg 7B, the third leg 7C, and the fourth leg 7D. One
or more of the legs 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, for example, each of the legs 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D,
may comprise a foot. In this example, the first leg 7A comprises a first foot 50A,
the second leg 7B comprises a second foot 50B, the third leg 7C comprises a third
foot 50C, and the fourth leg 7D comprises a fourth foot 50D.
[0095] Fig. 10 further shows the case 42 in which the retracted screen can be received.
In the sixth embodiment, the screen is provided with a bottom rail 44. With the aid
of this, a proper stretching of the screen in a width direction of the screen 8 can
be achieved. This helps to prevent unwanted folds in the screen 8. The bottom rail
44 may be provided with the sealing means such as the rubber strip.
[0096] Fig. 11 shows a transparent view of an, in use lower, part 52A of the first leg 7A.
The other legs 7B, 7C, 7D can have a similar lower part. Fig. 11 shows the first foot
50A and also shows a first attachment section 54.1. Fig. 11 further shows an, in use
lower, part of a main part 60A of the first leg 7A. The other legs preferably have
a similar main part. The main part of the first leg is preferably hollow. In this
example, the main part 60A of the first leg is formed as a rectangular tubular section.
In Fig. 11 the first attachment section 54.1 is slid into the hollow main part 60A
of the first leg 7A.
[0097] Fig. 12 also shows the first attachment section 54.1. More in general, the first
attachment section 54.1 may be provided with recesses. The recesses can extend in
different directions. A first recess 56A or a plurality of first recesses 56A may
extend, for example, in a length direction 58A of the first attachment section 54.1.
A second recess 56B or a plurality of second recesses 56B may extend, for example,
in a transverse direction 58B of the first attachment section 54.1. The transverse
direction can be transverse to the length direction. A length L of the first attachment
section 54.1 can be in a range of 5 centimeters to 50 centimeters. An attachment section
longer than about 5 centimeters is relatively light and creates the possibility of
achieving an attachment of an acceptable strength. An attachment section shorter than
50 centimeters has an acceptable weight and creates the possibility of achieving an
attachment of a relatively high strength. The length L may be, for example, approximately
equal to 18 centimeters. However, the length L can also be outside the range mentioned.
The first attachment section may further be provided with first slots 57A and/or second
slots 57B. These first and/or second slots can extend in the length direction 58A
of the first attachment section 54.1.
[0098] The first and/or second recesses 56A, 56B are preferably provided with thread. This
allows screws 62 to be screwed through recesses in the first leg (not visible) into
the second recesses of the first attachment section 54.1. Also, similarly, screws
(not visible) can be screwed through recesses in the first foot (not visible) into
the first recesses 56A. With the aid of the screws 62 and the attachment section with
the first and second recesses 56A, 56B, the first foot 50A can be detachably connected
with the main part of the first leg 7A. Alternatively, the first foot part and the
first attachment section can be replaced with a plastic cap which closes off the tubular
section of the main part 60A of the first leg 7A from below. With the first foot 50A,
however, a better support is obtainable than with such a plastic cap.
[0099] The supporting part 6 in the sixth embodiment (Fig. 10) is further provided with
the framework 5 which comprises four support elements in the form of horizontal girders,
viz., the first horizontal girder 5A, the second horizontal girder 5B, the third horizontal
girder 5C, and the fourth horizontal girder 5D. It will be clear that the horizontal
girders can form the first and the second support element. The first support element
may be formed, for example, by the second girder 5B, and the second support element
may be formed, for example, by the fourth girder 5D. In this example, the horizontal
girders 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D are mutually connected with the aid of coupling pieces (not
visible in Fig 10, but shown in Figs. 13, 14, and 15 with reference numerals 78.1
and 78.2). With the aid of these coupling pieces, also the legs 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D can
be attached to the framework 5.
[0100] Fig. 13 shows a transparent top plan view of a first detail 70 of Fig. 10. Fig. 13
shows the third horizontal girder 5C, the fourth horizontal girder 5D, and the fourth
leg 7D. Fig. 13 further shows a second attachment section 54.2, a third attachment
section 54.3, and a fourth attachment section 54.4 which are similar to the first
attachment section 54.1 as depicted in Fig. 12. As can be seen in Fig. 13, the second
attachment section 54.2 in this example is situated substantially in an, in use upper,
part of the fourth leg 7D. The fourth leg 7D, just like the other legs, may be provided
with a cover 72 which is connected with cover screws 74 to the second attachment section
54.2. The cover screws 74 may, for example, be screwed in the first slots 57A. Fig.
13 further shows that in this example the third attachment section 54.3 is situated
substantially in the third horizontal girder 5C, and that the fourth attachment section
54.4 is situated substantially in the fourth horizontal girder 5D.
[0101] The second, third, and fourth attachment section may be connected with the fourth
leg 7D, the third girder 5C, and the fourth girder 5D, respectively, via the screws
62. To that end, the screws 62 can be screwed through recesses (not visible) in the
fourth leg 7D, the third girder 5C, and the fourth girder 5D into the second recesses
56B of the second, third, and fourth attachment sections, respectively, similarly
to the screws 62 screwed into the second recesses 56B of the first attachment section
54.1 as described with reference to Fig. 11.
[0102] The second, third and fourth attachment section 54.2, 54.3, and 54.4 may be comprised
by a first coupling piece 78.1 by which the fourth leg 7D, the third girder 5C, and
the fourth girder 5D are mutually interconnected. To that end, the second, third,
and fourth attachment section may be mutually interconnected and extend in this example
in mutually perpendicular directions.
[0103] Fig. 14 shows an example in which the second, the third, and the fourth attachment
section 54.2, 54.3, and 54.4 are mutually interconnected with screws 76. The screws
76 that are visible in Fig. 14 extend through third recesses (not visible) in the
second attachment section and into the first recesses 56A of the fourth attachment
section 54.4. After the mutual connections, for example with the aid of the screws
76, have been effected, the second, third and fourth attachment section can be part
of the first coupling piece 78.1. It will be clear that the fifth attachment section
54.5, as shown in Fig. 14, is absent in the example of Fig. 13.
[0104] Fig. 15 shows a transparent view of a second detail 71 indicated in Fig. 10. Fig.
15 shows a second coupling piece 78.2 which is built up analogously to the first coupling
piece 78.1, and shows also a sixth attachment section 54.6. The sixth attachment section
is received in the first leg 7A and is attached thereto. Fig. 15 shows also a seventh
attachment section 54.7. The seventh attachment section 54.7 is received in the first
girder 5A and is attached thereto with the aid of the screws 62. Fig. 15 shows further
an eighth attachment section 54.8. The eighth attachment section 54.8 is received
in the fourth girder 5D and is attached thereto with the aid of the screws 62.
[0105] It will thus be clear that, in the sixth embodiment, the supporting part 6 is provided
with at least one attachment section, viz., the first, second, third, and fourth,
sixth, seventh, and eighth attachment section.
[0106] It will also be clear that the supporting part of the sun protection device 2 in
the sixth embodiment has a first corner point 84A, a second corner point 84B, a third
corner point 84C, and a fourth corner point 84D (Fig. 10), and that the first coupling
piece 78.1 is near the fourth corner point 84D and that the second coupling piece
78.2 is near the first corner point 84A. In the sixth embodiment, near the second
and third corner points there are similar coupling pieces to those at the first and
the fourth corner point. Thus, it will be clear that in the sixth embodiment on or
near each corner point there may be one of the coupling pieces. It will also be clear
that in the sixth embodiment the first support element, for example, the second girder
5B, and the second support element, for example, the fourth girder 5D, are connected
with other elements, such as the first girder 5A and the third girder 5C, of the framework
5 by means of the coupling pieces such as the first and second coupling piece 78.1
and 78.2. In variations of the supporting part 6 as described hereinbefore, it may
be desirable to connect parts of the supporting part 6, such as the legs and the frame
5, or such as different parts of a leg, with each other at a settable angle. Figs.
16A and 16B show a third coupling piece 78.3 where a ninth and a tenth attachment
section 54.9 and 54.10 of the third coupling piece are angle-adjustably connected
with each other. The ninth and tenth attachment section are similar to the first attachment
section as shown in Fig. 12. The third coupling piece 78.3 is provided with outer
coupling plates 80A and inner coupling plates 80B. The inner coupling plates can be
inserted into the second slots 57B of the ninth attachment section. The outer coupling
plates can be inserted into the first slots 57A of the tenth attachment section. The
coupling plates 80A,B may be provided with curved slots 82, in which coupling bolts
84 may be present. By tightening the coupling bolts 84, a set angle between the ninth
and the tenth attachment section can be fixed.
[0107] Fig. 17 shows a longitudinal cross section of the sun protection device 2 in the
sixth embodiment. The plane of the cross section passes through the third attachment
section 54.3 and the seventh attachment section 54.7, parallel with the legs and the
fourth girder 50D. Fig. 17 shows the first leg 7A, the fourth leg 7D, the first foot
50A, and the fourth foot 50D. Fig. 17 further shows the fourth girder 5D of the framework
5. Also shown in Fig. 17 are the sun blocking part 4 and the screen 8. The screen
8 in this example can be slid in and out with the aid of the screen roll 83. The screen
roll 83 can be part of a winding and unwinding mechanism with the aid of which the
screen 8 can be slid in and out.
[0108] The third attachment section 54.3 may be provided with an opening 88. This opening
is not present in the first attachment section 54.1. Via the opening 88 the flexible
element 16 can be led to the roll of the windup means 18.
[0109] Fig. 17 also shows the windup means 18 and the flexible element 16. In the sixth
embodiment, the flexible element 16 is formed by a flexible sun protection cloth 85.
At an attachment point 15C of the sun blocking part the sun protection cloth is connected
with the sun blocking part 4. In the sixth embodiment, the attachment point 15C is
along an edge of the sun blocking part, such that the flexible sun protection cloth
extends over a first width B
1 which is approximately equal to a second width B
2 of the sun blocking part 4. It will hence be clear that the term 'attachment point'
can be taken broadly and can extend along the edge of the sun blocking part. The first
width B
1 and the second width B
2 are, for example, approximately equal to a length of the first and the third girder.
[0110] Fig. 18 shows the sun protection device in a seventh embodiment according to the
invention. In Fig. 18 the sun protection device 2 is attached to the wall 11. In this
example, the supporting part 6 is adapted for such an attachment. To that end, the
supporting part 6 may be provided with an eleventh and a twelfth attachment section
54.11 and 54.12. The eleventh and twelfth attachment section are similar to the first
attachment section and may be provided with a mounting plate 90. The mounting plate
may be connected to the eleventh and twelfth attachment section by means of screws
that may be screwed into the first recesses 56A. The mounting plates 90 may be provided
with the first holes 9E suitable for inserting bolts therethrough. With these bolts
the supporting part can then be connected to the wall 11.
[0111] Fig. 18 shows further the attachment point 15C that is along the edge of the sun
blocking part 4, such that the flexible sun protection cloth extends over the first
width B
1 of the sun protection cloth 85 which is approximately equal to the second width B
2 of the sun blocking part 4 and the screen 8.
[0112] In the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh embodiment, the sun
blocking part 4 is connected to the framework 5 of the supporting part 6 so as to
be tiltable in the plane 32 which is substantially vertically oriented in use. Such
a vertical tilt orientation, however, may be supplemented with, and/or replaced by,
a horizontal tilt orientation. To that end, the sun blocking part may be connected
to the supporting part so as to be tiltable in a plane which is substantially horizontally
oriented in use. By combining these two tilt orientations, a relatively wide range
of orientations of the sun blocking part 4 with respect to the sun can be achieved.
[0113] It will be clear that features described in respect of the embodiments described
are not limited to a single embodiment, but can also be used in the other embodiments.
For instance, the sun protection device 2 in the second, third and fourth embodiment
may be provided with the first leg 7A, the second leg 7B, the third leg 7C, and the
fourth leg 7D. In the fifth embodiment, the sun protection device 2 may be provided
with only three legs, viz., the first leg 7A, the second leg 7B and the third leg
7C.
[0114] It is believed that the operation and construction of the invention are apparent
from the preceding description. The invention is not limited by any of the embodiments
described. For instance, the supporting part may be provided with a guide for the
sun blocking part, while the positioning means are also adapted for translating the
sun blocking part over the guide for the sun blocking part. For example, the positioning
means may then be configured for translating the sun blocking part along the guide
for the sun blocking part during tilting of the sun blocking part. The combination
of translation and tilting further enlarges the possibilities of adjusting the position
of the sun blocking part to a position of the sun. As another example, preferably,
the sun protection device and/or the positioning means are configured for, at will
of the user, tilting the sun blocking part from an untilted situation in one of at
least two different directions. In this way, the angle α can, in use, become both
positive and negative. The use of expressions such as "preferably", "more preferably",
"in particular", etc., is not intended to limit the invention. The use of the indefinite
article 'a' does not preclude a plurality. With the knowledge of those skilled in
the art, possible changes in the embodiments may be understood to fall within the
scope of the appended claims. Also, all kinematic inversions are considered to be
disclosed and to fall within the invention.
1. A sun protection device, provided with a sun blocking part and a supporting part for
supporting the sun blocking part, wherein the sun blocking part preferably comprises
a screen that can be slid in and slid out, wherein the supporting part comprises at
least a first support element and a second support element which are immovably connected
with each other and extend in mutually different directions along the sun blocking
part, wherein the sun blocking part is tiltably connected to the supporting part according
to a tilting axis which extends between two mutually spaced apart points of which
a first point is associated with the first support element and a second point is associated
with the second support element.
2. A sun protection device according to claim 1, wherein the first support element and
the second support element are included in a framework formed by the supporting part,
wherein the framework, preferably wholly, surrounds the sun blocking part.
3. A sun protection device according to claim 1 or 2, having at least one of the following
features:
wherein the first point coincides with the first support element and a second point
coincides with the second support element;
wherein the sun blocking part is situated at least partly between the two mutually
spaced apart points;
wherein the different directions in which the first and second support element extend
are directed transversely to each other or are directed substantially parallel to
each other; and
wherein the first support element and the support element are formed by substantially
horizontally extending girders.
4. A sun protection device according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the sun blocking
part is tiltable in a plane that is directed transversely to a plane in which the
sun blocking part extends.
5. A sun protection device according to any one of claims 1-4, having at least one of
the following features:
wherein the sun blocking part has at least two ends by which it is tiltably connected
at the two mutually spaced apart points to the supporting part;
wherein the at least two ends are formed by corners of the sun blocking part;
wherein the at least two ends are formed by different longitudinal edges of the sun
blocking part; and
wherein the at least two ends are opposite longitudinal edges.
6. A sun protection device according to any one of claims 1-5, having at least one of
the following features:
wherein the sun blocking part in use is connected to the supporting part so as to
be tiltable in a substantially vertically oriented plane;
wherein the sun blocking part in use is connected to the supporting part so as to
be tiltable in a substantially horizontally oriented plane;
further provided with positioning means for setting an angle of tilt of the sun blocking
part with respect to the supporting part;
wherein the positioning means, in use, during the setting of the angle of tilt, operate
the sun blocking part by exertion of a force on the sun blocking part from the supporting
part; and
wherein the sun blocking part is provided with at least one, and preferably two, attachment
points to which the positioning means in use are connected with the sun blocking part.
7. A sun protection device according to claim 1, wherein the sun blocking part in use
is connected to the supporting part so as to be tiltable in a substantially vertically
oriented plane and wherein the positioning means comprise a flexible element which
is attached to the at least one attachment point, wherein the positioning means are
adapted for setting the angle of tilt of the sun blocking part with respect to the
supporting part by paying out and/or retracting the flexible element.
8. A sun protection device according to claim 7, wherein the positioning means also comprise
a windup means, wherein the windup means is attached to the supporting part, wherein
the flexible element is unwindable from and windable onto the windup means, wherein
the positioning means are adapted for setting the angle of tilt of the sun blocking
part with respect to the supporting part by unwinding and/or winding the flexible
element onto the windup means.
9. A sun protection device according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the flexible element is
formed by a flexible sun protection cloth.
10. A sun protection device according to claim 9, wherein the at least one attachment
point is along an edge of the sun blocking part, such that the flexible sun protection
cloth extends over a width that is approximately equal to a width of the sun blocking
part.
11. A sun protection device according to any one of claims 8-10, provided with a housing
which substantially encloses the windup means.
12. A sun protection device according to any one of claims 4-11, wherein the positioning
means are adapted for setting a plurality of angles of tilt of the sun blocking part
with respect to the supporting part, wherein the plurality of angles of tilt are within
a predetermined angular range.
13. A sun protection device according to any one of claims 1-12, having at least one of
the following features:
wherein the supporting part is provided with at least one leg, preferably with at
least two legs, more preferably with four legs; wherein at least one, and preferably
all, legs are removable from the supporting part; and
provided with attachment means for, preferably detachable, attachment of the supporting
part to a shelter, such as a house, a tent, a shed, or a caravan.
14. A sun protection device according to claim 6, provided with attachment means for,
preferably detachable, attachment of the supporting part to a shelter, such as a house,
a tent, a shed, or a caravan, and wherein the attachment means are adapted for attachment
of the supporting part according to, at will of the user, a first attachment or a
second attachment, wherein the substantially vertically oriented plane in the first
attachment extends in a first direction that differs from a second direction in which
the substantially vertically oriented plane in the second attachment extends.
15. A sun protection device according to claims 13 or 14, having at least one of the following
features:
wherein the supporting part as an awning is, preferably detachably, attached to the
shelter; and
wherein the different directions in which the first and second support element extend
are directed transversely to each other or are directed substantially parallel to
each other and wherein the supporting part is, preferably detachably, attached by
at least one of the substantially horizontal girders to the shelter.
16. A sun protection device according to any one of claims 1-15, adapted to be placed
on a veranda and/or to be attached to the veranda.
17. A sun protection device according to any one of claims 1-16, having at least one of
the following features:
wherein the supporting part, preferably in its entirety, is movable;
wherein a size of the sun blocking part is chosen such that in use a sun blocking
surface of the sun blocking part is greater than a sun blocking surface of the supporting
part, with the sun blocking part preferably in wholly slid out condition; and
adapted for, at will of a user, tilting the sun blocking part from an untilted situation
in one of at least two different directions.
18. A sun protection device according to any one of claims 1-17, having at least one of
the following features:
wherein the supporting part is provided with at least one attachment section;
wherein the supporting part is provided with at least one coupling piece which comprises
at least two, preferably three, attachment sections which are mutually connected with
each other and extend in different, preferably mutually perpendicular, directions;
wherein at least one, and preferably all, of the attachment sections of the coupling
piece are detachably connected with each other;
wherein the attachment sections of the coupling piece are angle-adjustably connected
with each other;
wherein the sun blocking part has at least two ends by which it is tiltably connected
to the supporting part at the two mutually spaced apart points and wherein the first
support element and the second support element are connected with each other and/or
with other elements of the framework by means of the at least one coupling piece;
wherein the at least one attachment section of the at least one coupling piece is
slid into and/or over the first support element and/or the second support element;
wherein the framework has a number of corner points, wherein on or near each corner
point one of the coupling pieces is situated;
wherein the supporting part is provided with at least one leg, preferably with at
least two legs, more preferably with four legs;
wherein at least one, and preferably all, legs are removable from the supporting part
and wherein the at least one leg comprises a foot; and
wherein the foot is detachably connected with a main part of the at least one leg
by means of the at least one attachment section.
19. Use of a sun protection device according to any one of claims 1-18 as carport and/or
above a veranda and/or a terrace.