Abstract
A shading system includes a housing extending along a longitudinal housing direction; a plurality of shading blades extending along a longitudinal blade direction; a coupling system comprising: a first rail; and a second rail. Each of the shading blades is rotatably coupled to the first rail and to the second rail. A coupling element is rotatably coupled to the housing and rotatably coupled to the second rail. An actuator to translate the first rail along the longitudinal housing direction. The coupling element rotates the shading blades by limiting a translation of the second rail. A rain gutter extends along the longitudinal housing direction below the plurality of shading blades.
Claims
1. A shading system for covering an underlying space, said shading system comprising: a housing extending along a longitudinal housing direction; a plurality of shading blades arranged one after the other along said longitudinal housing direction, each of said shading blades extending along a longitudinal blade direction traverse to said longitudinal housing direction; said shading blades being movable between a closed position thereby covering said underlying space, and at least one open position; a coupling system arranged between said housing and said plurality of shading blades, wherein said coupling system comprises: a first rail comprising a first longitudinal axis along said longitudinal housing direction configured to translate along said longitudinal housing direction; a second rail comprising a second longitudinal axis along said longitudinal housing direction; wherein each of said shading blades is rotatably coupled to said first rail at a first coupling point and rotatably coupled to said second rail at a second coupling point; and a coupling element rotatably coupled to said housing and rotatably coupled to said second rail; an actuator configured to translate said first rail along said longitudinal housing direction; wherein said coupling element limits a translation of said second rail along said longitudinal housing direction, thereby rotating said shading blades between said closed position and said at least one open position; and a rain gutter extending along said longitudinal housing direction and arranged below said plurality of shading blades.
2. The shading system according to claim 1, wherein said rain gutter comprises a rain gutter coupling element adapted to couple said rain gutter to said housing and a protecting element extending along said longitudinal housing direction; wherein said protecting element is arranged traverse to said longitudinal blade direction such that shading blades partially overlap said rain gutter along said longitudinal blade direction.
3. The shading system according to claim 2, wherein each of said shading blades comprises: a strip extending along said longitudinal blade direction, wherein said strip comprises said second coupling point; and a blade holder comprising: a blade holder body configured to support said strip along said longitudinal blade direction; a first blade holder tip comprising said first coupling point; and a second blade holder tip opposite said first blade holder tip.
4. The shading system according to claim 3, wherein when said shading blades are in said closed position, said shading blades are arranged partially superimposed, each over the next, with the second blade holder tip of a shading blade partially superimposing the first blade holder tip of the next shading blade along said longitudinal housing direction.
5. The shading system according to claim 3, wherein when said shading blades are in said open position, said shading blades are arranged each spaced from the next by an opening formed between the second blade holder tip of a shading blade and the first blade holder tip of the next shading blade along said longitudinal housing direction.
6. The shading system according to claim 1, wherein said shading blades rotate between said closed position and said at least one open position at said first coupling point around a first rotation axis extending along said longitudinal blade direction.
7. The shading system according to claim 1, wherein, when said coupling element limits said translation of said second rail along said longitudinal housing direction, said second rail moves along a traverse direction traverse to said longitudinal housing direction and to said longitudinal blade direction.
8. The shading system according to claim 3, wherein said first rail comprises: a holder extending along said longitudinal housing direction and connected to each of said blade holders at each of said first coupling points; wherein said holder comprises at least one pair of wheels configured to translate along said longitudinal housing direction; and a guide coupled to said holder and extending along said longitudinal housing direction; wherein said guide is configured to guide said pair of wheels along said longitudinal housing direction; and wherein said actuator is coupled to said holder.
9. The shading system according to claim 3, wherein said protecting element of said rain gutter comprises a brush extending along said longitudinal housing direction; wherein said brush is arranged such that each of said blade holders lies onto said brush in said closed position.
10. The shading system according to claim 1, wherein said coupling element is a rod.
11. A method for covering an underlying space, said method comprising the steps of: providing a housing extending along a longitudinal housing direction; providing a plurality of shading blades; arranging said shading blades one after the other along said longitudinal housing direction, each of said shading blades extending along a longitudinal blade direction traverse to said longitudinal housing direction; said shading blades being movable between a closed position thereby covering said underlying space, and at least one open position; providing a coupling system arranged between said housing and said plurality of shading blades, wherein said providing a coupling system comprises: providing a first rail comprising a first longitudinal axis along said longitudinal housing direction configured to translate along said longitudinal housing direction; providing a second rail comprising a second longitudinal axis along said longitudinal housing direction; wherein each of said shading blades is rotatably coupled to said first rail at a first coupling point and rotatably coupled to said second rail at a second coupling point; and providing a coupling element rotatably coupled to said housing and rotatably coupled to said second rail; translating said first rail along said longitudinal housing direction; wherein using said coupling element to limit a translation of said second rail along said longitudinal housing direction, thereby rotating said shading blades between said closed position and said at least one open position; and providing a rain gutter extending along said longitudinal housing direction and arranged below said plurality of shading blades.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
(1) FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a cross-section of an embodiment of a shading system according to the present invention wherein the shading blades are in a closed position.
(2) FIG. 2 schematically illustrates a cross-section of an embodiment of a shading system according to the present invention wherein the shading blades are in an open position.
(3) FIG. 3 schematically illustrates a side view of a cross-section of an embodiment of a first rail and of first coupling points according to the present invention.
(4) FIG. 4 schematically illustrates a side view of a cross-section of an embodiment of a shading system according to the present invention.
(5) FIGS. 5A to 5F schematically illustrate cross-sections of a shading system according to the present invention wherein the shading blades rotate between a closed position and open positions.
(6) FIG. 6 schematically illustrates a side view of a cross-section of an embodiment of a shading system according to the present invention wherein the shading system comprises two coupling elements.
(7) FIG. 7 schematically illustrates a cross-section of an embodiment of a shading system according to the present invention wherein the shading blades are in a closed position.
(8) FIG. 8 schematically illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a shade assembly comprising at least one shading system according to the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENT(S)
(9) According to a cross-section of an embodiment shown in FIG. 1, a shading system 1 for covering an underlying space 2 according to the present invention comprises a housing 11, a plurality of shading blades 12, a coupling system and an actuator 14. For clarity reasons, only a part of the shading system 1 is schematically illustrated. The shading system 1 is symmetric with respect to the plurality of shading blade 12 along the longitudinal blade direction 4. The housing 11 extends along a longitudinal housing direction 3. The shading blades 12 are arranged one after the other along the longitudinal housing direction 3, each of the shading blades 12 extending along a longitudinal blade direction 4 traverse to the longitudinal housing direction 3. The shading blades 12 are being movable between a closed position 6 in which the shading blades 12 cover the underlying space 2 and at least one open position. The coupling system is arranged between the housing 11 and the plurality of shading blades 12. The coupling system comprises a first rail 131, a second rail 132 and a coupling element 133. The first rail 131 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and the first rail 131 translates along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The first rail 131 is coupled the housing 11. The second rail 132 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. Each of the shading blades 12 is rotatably coupled to the first rail 131 at a first coupling point 121 and each of the shading blades 12 is also rotatably coupled to the second rail 132 at a second coupling point 122. Each of the shading blades 12 comprises a first rotating pin 43 which fits in a respective recess of the first rail 131 at the respective first coupling point 121 such that the respective shading blade 12 can rotate around a first rotation axis 40 at the first coupling point 121. Additionally, each of the shading blades 12 comprises a second rotating pin 46 which is coupled to the second rail 132 at the respective second coupling point 122 such that the respective shading blade 12 can rotate around a second rotation axis 41 at the second coupling point 122. The coupling element 133 is rotatably coupled to the housing 11 and the coupling element 133 is also rotatably coupled to the second rail 132. The actuator 14 translates the first rail 131 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The coupling element 133 limits a translation of the second rail 132 along the longitudinal housing direction 3, thereby rotating the shading blades 12 between the closed position 6 and at least one of the open positions. The shading system 1 further comprises a rain gutter 15 extending along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and arranged below the plurality of shading blades 12. The rain gutter 15 comprises a rain gutter coupling element 151 which couples the rain gutter 15 to the housing 11 and a protecting element 152 which extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The protecting element 152 is arranged traverse to the longitudinal blade direction 4 such that the shading blades 12 partially overlap with the rain gutter 15 along the longitudinal blade direction 4. Each of the shading blades 12 comprises a strip 221 and a blade holder 222. Each strip 221 extends along the longitudinal blade direction 4, and each strip 221 comprises the second coupling point 122 of the respective shading blade 12. Each blade holder 223 comprises a blade holder body 223, a first blade holder tip 224 and a second blade holder tip 225. Each blade holder body 223 supports the strip 221 along the longitudinal blade direction 4. Each first blade holder tip 224 comprises the first coupling point 121 of the respective shading blade 12. Each second blade holder tip 225 is arranged opposite each respective first blade holder tip 224. In FIG. 1, the shading blades 12 are arranged partially superimposed, each over the next, with the second blade holder tip 225 of a shading blade 12 partially superimposing the first blade holder tip 224 of the next shading blade 12 along the longitudinal housing direction 4. The shading blades 12 rotate at their first coupling points 121 around a first rotation axis 40 extending along the longitudinal blade direction 4. The shading blades 12 also rotate at their second coupling points 122 around a second rotation axis 41 extending along the longitudinal blade direction 4. In the closed position 7, the shading blades 12 are such that an angle equal to 0 degree is formed between the longitudinal blade direction 4 of each of the blades of the shading blades 12 and the longitudinal housing direction 3. The shading blades 12 can rotate such that the angle of rotation of each shading blade 12 with respect to the longitudinal housing direction 3 is comprised between 0 degrees and 140 degrees. For example, the shading blades 12 can rotate such that an angle of 10, 20, 25, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130 or 140 degrees is formed between each of the shading blades 12 and the longitudinal housing direction 3 corresponding to the respective closed position 7 of each of the shading blades 12. According to an alternative embodiment, the shading blades 12 can rotate such that the angle of rotation of each shading blade 12 with respect to the longitudinal housing direction 3 is comprised between 0 degrees and 180 degrees. For example, the shading blades 12 can rotate such that an angle comprised between 0 and 180 degrees is formed between each of the shading blades 12 and the longitudinal housing direction 3 corresponding to the respective closed position 7 of each of the shading blades 12. In other words, the movement of the second rail with respect to the first rail causes the shading blades to move towards either an open position 6 or a closed position 7 depending upon the rotational direction of the first coupling point 121 and the rotational direction of the second coupling point 122. The first rail 131 comprises a holder 31 and a guide 33. The holder 31 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and is connected to each of the blade holders 222 at each of the first coupling points 121. The holder 31 comprises at least one pair of wheels 32 which can translate along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The guide 33 is coupled to the holder 31. The guide 33 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and the guide 33 is coupled to the housing 11. The guide 33 guides the pair of wheels 32 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The actuator 14 is coupled to the holder 31 and thereby translates the holder 31 of the first rail 131. In other words, the holder 31 translates in the guide 33 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The protecting element 152 of the rain gutter 15 further comprises a brush 50 which extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The brush 50 is arranged such that each of the blade holders 222 lies onto the brush 50 when the shading blades 12 are in a closed position 6. The coupling element 133 is for example a rod. The first rail 131 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. In other words, the first rail 131 comprises a first longitudinal axis 47 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The second rail 132 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. In other words, the second rail 132 comprises a second longitudinal axis 48 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The first rail 131 comprises U-shaped profiles and the second rail 132 comprises a L-shaped profile. According to alternative embodiments, the first rail 131 and/or the second rail 132 comprise one or more U-shaped, T-shaped, L-shaped or any other suitable shaped profiles such as for example closed shaped profiles.
(10) According to a cross-section of an embodiment shown in FIG. 2, a shading system 1 for covering an underlying space 2 according to the present invention comprises a housing 11, a plurality of shading blades 12, a coupling system and an actuator 14. Components having identical reference numbers than in FIG. 1 fulfil the same functions. For clarity reasons, only a part of the shading system 1 is schematically illustrated. The shading system 1 is symmetric with respect to the plurality of shading blade 12 along the longitudinal blade direction 4. The housing 11 extends along a longitudinal housing direction 3. The shading blades 12 are arranged one after the other along the longitudinal housing direction 3, each of the shading blades 12 extending along a longitudinal blade direction 4 traverse to the longitudinal housing direction 3. The shading blades 12 are being movable between a closed position in which the shading blades 12 cover the underlying space 2 and at least one open position 7. The coupling system is arranged between the housing 11 and the plurality of shading blades 12. The coupling system comprises a first rail 131, a second rail 132 and a coupling element 133. The first rail 131 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and the first rail 131 translates along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The second rail 132 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. Each of the shading blades 12 is rotatably coupled to the first rail 131 at a first coupling point 121 and each of the shading blades 12 is also rotatably coupled to the second rail 132 at a second coupling point 122. Each of the shading blades 12 comprises a first rotating pin 43 which fits in a respective recess of the first rail 131 at the respective first coupling point 121 such that the respective shading blade 12 can rotate around a first rotation axis 40 at the first coupling point 121. Additionally, each of the shading blades 12 comprises a second rotating pin 46 which is coupled to the second rail 132 at the respective second coupling point 122 such that the respective shading blade 12 can rotate around a second rotation axis 41 at the second coupling point 122. The coupling element 133 is rotatably coupled to the housing 11 and the coupling element 133 is also rotatably coupled to the second rail 132. The actuator 14 translates the first rail 131 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The coupling element 133 limits a translation of the second rail 132 along the longitudinal housing direction 3, thereby rotating the shading blades 12 between the closed position and at least one of the open positions 7. The shading system 1 further comprises a rain gutter 15 extending along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and arranged below the plurality of shading blades 12. The rain gutter 15 comprises a rain gutter coupling element 151 which couples the rain gutter 15 to the housing 11 and a protecting element 152 which extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The protecting element 152 is arranged traverse to the longitudinal blade direction 4 such that the shading blades 12 partially overlap with the rain gutter 15 along the longitudinal blade direction 4. Each of the shading blades 12 comprises a strip 221 and a blade holder 222. Each strip 221 extends along the longitudinal blade direction 4, and each strip 221 comprises the second coupling point 122 of the respective shading blade 12. Each blade holder 223 comprises a blade holder body 223, a first blade holder tip 224 and a second blade holder tip 225. Each blade holder body 223 supports the strip 221 along the longitudinal blade direction 4. Each first blade holder tip 224 comprises the first coupling point 121 of the respective shading blade 12. Each second blade holder tip 225 is arranged opposite each respective first blade holder tip 224. In FIG. 2, the shading blades 12 are arranged each spaced from the next one along the longitudinal housing direction 3 by an opening formed by the second blade holder tip 225 of a shading blade 12 and the first blade holder tip 224 of the next shading blade 12 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The shading blades 12 rotate at their first coupling points 121 around a first rotation axis 40 extending along the longitudinal blade direction 4. The shading blades 12 also rotate at their second coupling points 122 around a second rotation axis 41 extending along the longitudinal blade direction 4. The first rail 131 comprises a holder 31 and a guide 33. The holder 31 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and is connected to each of the blade holders 222 at each of the first coupling points 121. The holder 31 comprises at least one pair of wheels 32 which can translate along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The guide 33 is coupled to the holder 31. The guide 33 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and the guide 33 is coupled to the housing 11. The guide 33 guides the pair of wheels 32 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The actuator 14 is coupled to the holder 31 and thereby translates the holder 31 of the first rail 131. The protecting element 152 of the rain gutter 15 further comprises a brush 50 which extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The brush 50 is arranged such that each of the blade holders 222 lies onto the brush 50 when the shading blades 12 are in a closed position 6. The coupling element 133 is for example a rod. When the coupling element 133 limits the translation of the second rail 132 along the longitudinal housing direction 3, the second rail 132 moves along a traverse direction 5 traverse to the longitudinal housing direction 3 and to the longitudinal blade direction 4. The first rail 131 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. In other words, the first rail 131 comprises a first longitudinal axis 47 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The second rail 132 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. In other words, the second rail 132 comprises a second longitudinal axis 48 along the longitudinal housing direction 3.
(11) According to a side view of an embodiment shown in FIG. 3, a shading system 1 for covering an underlying space 2 according to the present invention comprises a housing 11, a plurality of shading blades 12 and a coupling system. Components having identical reference numbers than in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 fulfil the same functions. The shading system 1 is symmetric with respect to the plurality of shading blade 12 along the longitudinal blade direction 4. The housing 11 extends along a longitudinal housing direction 3. For clarity reasons, only a part of the shading system 1 is schematically illustrated. For example, the shading system 1 further comprises a rain gutter extending along a longitudinal housing direction 3 and arranged below the plurality of shades 12. For clarity reasons, the rain gutter is not illustrated on FIG. 3. The shading blades 12 further comprises a closing lip 42 arranged at the start of the plurality of shading blades 12 in the shading system 1 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The closing lip 42 seals the plurality of shading blades 12 when the shading system 1 is in a closed position 6, thereby ensuring the underlying space remains dry and protected. Similarly, the plurality of shading blades 12 also comprises a closing lip arranged at the end of the plurality of shading blades 12 in the shading system 1 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The shading blades 12 are arranged one after the other along the longitudinal housing direction 3, each of the shading blades 12 extending along a longitudinal blade direction 4 traverse to the longitudinal housing direction 3. The shading blades 12 and the closing lips 42 are being movable between a closed position 6 in which the shading blades 12 cover the underlying space 2 and at least one open position. The coupling system is arranged between the housing 11 and the plurality of shading blades 12. The coupling system comprises a first rail 131. The first rail 131 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and the first rail 131 translates along the longitudinal housing direction 3. Each of the shading blades 12 and the closing lip 42 are rotatably coupled to the first rail 131 at a first coupling point 121. The first rail 131 comprises a plurality of recesses 44 periodically defined along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The recesses 44 are defined in the holder 31 of the first rail 31. Each of the shading blades 12 and the closing lip 42 comprise a first rotating pin 43 which fits in a respective recess 44 of the first rail 131 at the respective first coupling point 121 such that the respective shading blade 12 can rotate around a first rotation axis 40 at the first coupling point 121. In other words, the rotating pin 43 rotates in the recess 44 of the first rail 131. Additionally, a locking plate 45 is mounted on the first rail 131 for each of the rotating pins 43 such that the respective shading blade 12 is fixed in a secure manner to the first rail 131. Additionally, each of the shading blades 12 comprises a second rotating pin 46 which is coupled to the second rail at the respective second coupling point 122 such that the respective shading blade 12 can rotate around a second rotation axis 41 at the second coupling point 122. Each of the shading blades 12 comprises a strip 221 and a blade holder 222. Each strip 221 extends along the longitudinal blade direction 4, and each strip 221 comprises the second coupling point 122 of the respective shading blade 12. Each blade holder 223 comprises a blade holder body 223, a first blade holder tip 224 and a second blade holder tip 225. Each blade holder body 223 supports the strip 221 along the longitudinal blade direction 4. Each first blade holder tip 224 comprises the first coupling point 121 of the respective shading blade 12. Each second blade holder tip 225 is arranged opposite each respective first blade holder tip 224. In FIG. 3, the shading blades 12 are arranged partially superimposed, each over the next, with the second blade holder tip 225 of a shading blade 12 partially superimposing the first blade holder tip 224 of the next shading blade 12 along the longitudinal housing direction 4. The shading blades 12 rotate at their first coupling points 121 around a first rotation axis 40 extending along the longitudinal blade direction 4. The shading blades 12 also rotate at their second coupling points 122 around a second rotation axis 41 extending along the longitudinal blade direction 4. The first rail 131 comprises a holder 31 and a guide 33. The holder 31 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and is connected to each of the blade holders 222 at each of the first coupling points 121. The guide 33 is coupled to the holder 31. The guide 33 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and the guide 33 is coupled to the housing 11. The first rail 131 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. In other words, the first rail 131 comprises a first longitudinal axis 47 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The second rail 132 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. In other words, the second rail 132 comprises a second longitudinal axis 48 along the longitudinal housing direction 3.
(12) According to a side view of an embodiment shown in FIG. 4, a shading system 1 for covering an underlying space 2 according to the present invention comprises a housing 11, a plurality of shading blades 12 and a coupling system. Components having identical reference numbers than in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 fulfil the same functions. The shading system 1 is symmetric with respect to the plurality of shading blade 12 along the longitudinal blade direction 4. The housing 11 extends along a longitudinal housing direction 3. For clarity reasons, only a part of the shading system 1 is schematically illustrated. For example, the shading system 1 further comprises a rain gutter extending along a longitudinal housing direction 3 and arranged below the plurality of shades 12. For clarity reasons, the rain gutter is not illustrated on FIG. 3. The shading blades 12 further comprises a closing lip 42 arranged at the start of the plurality of shading blades 12 in the shading system 1 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The closing lip 42 seals the plurality of shading blades 12 when the shading system 1 is in a closed position 6, thereby ensuring the underlying space remains dry and protected. Similarly, the plurality of shading blades 12 also comprises a closing lip arranged at the end of the plurality of shading blades 12 in the shading system 1 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The shading blades 12 are arranged one after the other along the longitudinal housing direction 3, each of the shading blades 12 extending along a longitudinal blade direction 4 traverse to the longitudinal housing direction 3. The shading blades 12 and the closing lips 42 are being movable between a closed position 6 in which the shading blades 12 cover the underlying space 2 and at least one open position. The coupling system is arranged between the housing 11 and the plurality of shading blades 12. The coupling system comprises a first rail 131, a second rail 132 and a coupling element 133. The first rail 131 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and the first rail 131 translates along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The second rail 132 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. Each of the shading blades 12 and the closing lip 42 are rotatably coupled to the first rail 131 at a first coupling point 121 and each of the shading blades 12 and the closing lip 42 are also rotatably coupled to the second rail 132 at a second coupling point 122. The first rail 131 comprises a plurality of recesses 44 periodically defined along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The recesses 44 are defined in the holder 31 of the first rail 31. Each of the shading blades 12 and the closing lip 42 comprise a first rotating pin which fits in a respective recess 44 of the first rail 131 at the respective first coupling point 121 such that the respective shading blade 12 can rotate around a first rotation axis 40 at the first coupling point 121. In other words, the rotating pin rotates in the recess 44 of the first rail 131. Additionally, each of the shading blades 12 comprises a second rotating pin which is coupled to the second rail at the respective second coupling point 122 such that the respective shading blade 12 can rotate around a second rotation axis 41 at the second coupling point 122. The coupling element 133 is rotatably coupled to the housing 11 and the coupling element 133 is also rotatably coupled to the second rail 132. The coupling element 133 limits a translation of the second rail 132 along the longitudinal housing direction 3, thereby rotating the shading blades 12 between the closed position 6 and at least one of the open positions. The coupling element 133 is for example a rod. Each of the shading blades 12 comprises a strip 221 and a blade holder 222. Each strip 221 extends along the longitudinal blade direction 4, and each strip 221 comprises the second coupling point 122 of the respective shading blade 12. Each blade holder 223 comprises a blade holder body 223, a first blade holder tip 224 and a second blade holder tip 225. Each blade holder body 223 supports the strip 221 along the longitudinal blade direction 4. Each first blade holder tip 224 comprises the first coupling point 121 of the respective shading blade 12. Each second blade holder tip 225 is arranged opposite each respective first blade holder tip 224. In FIG. 4, the shading blades 12 are arranged partially superimposed, each over the next, with the second blade holder tip 225 of a shading blade 12 partially superimposing the first blade holder tip 224 of the next shading blade 12 along the longitudinal housing direction 4. The shading blades 12 rotate at their first coupling points 121 around a first rotation axis 40 extending along the longitudinal blade direction 4. The shading blades 12 also rotate at their second coupling points 122 around a second rotation axis 41 extending along the longitudinal blade direction 4. The first rail 131 comprises a holder 31 and a guide 33. The holder 31 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and is connected to each of the blade holders 222 at each of the first coupling points 121. The guide 33 is coupled to the holder 31. The guide 33 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and the guide 33 is coupled to the housing 11. The first rail 131 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. In other words, the first rail 131 comprises a first longitudinal axis 47 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The second rail 132 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. In other words, the second rail 132 comprises a second longitudinal axis 48 along the longitudinal housing direction 3.
(13) According to a cross-section of an embodiment shown in FIGS. 5A to 5F, a shading system 1 for covering an underlying space 2 according to the present invention comprises a housing 11, a plurality of shading blades 12. Components having identical reference numbers than in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 fulfil the same functions. The shading system 1 is symmetric with respect to the plurality of shading blade 12 along the longitudinal blade direction 4. The housing 11 extends along a longitudinal housing direction 3. For clarity reasons, only a part of the shading system 1 is schematically illustrated. For example, the shading system 1 further comprises a rain gutter extending along a longitudinal housing direction 3 and arranged below the plurality of shades 12. For clarity reasons, the rain gutter is not illustrated on FIG. 3. The shading blades 12 are arranged one after the other along the longitudinal housing direction 3, each of the shading blades 12 extending along a longitudinal blade direction 4 traverse to the longitudinal housing direction 3. The shading blades 12 are being movable between a closed position 6 in which the shading blades 12 cover the underlying space 2 and at least one open position. The coupling system is arranged between the housing 11 and the plurality of shading blades 12. The coupling system comprises a first rail 131, a second rail 132 and a coupling element 133. The coupling element 133 is for example a rod. The first rail 131 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and the first rail 131 translates along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The second rail 132 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. Each of the shading blades 12 is rotatably coupled to the first rail 131 at a first coupling point 121 and each of the shading blades 12 is also rotatably coupled to the second rail 132 at a second coupling point 122. The coupling element 133 is rotatably coupled to the housing 11 and the coupling element 133 is also rotatably coupled to the second rail 132. An actuator translates the first rail 131 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The coupling element 133 limits a translation of the second rail 132 along the longitudinal housing direction 3, and the shading blades 12 thereby rotate between the closed position 6 and at least one of the open positions 7. Each of the shading blades 12 comprises a strip 221 and a blade holder 222. Each strip 221 extends along the longitudinal blade direction 4, and each strip 221 comprises the second coupling point 122 of the respective shading blade 12. Each blade holder 223 comprises a blade holder body 223, a first blade holder tip 224 and a second blade holder tip 225. Each blade holder body 223 supports the strip 221 along the longitudinal blade direction 4. Each first blade holder tip 224 comprises the first coupling point 121 of the respective shading blade 12. Each second blade holder tip 225 is arranged opposite each respective first blade holder tip 224. In FIG. 5A, the shading blades 12 are arranged partially superimposed, each over the next, with the second blade holder tip 225 of a shading blade 12 partially superimposing the first blade holder tip 224 of the next shading blade 12 along the longitudinal housing direction 4. The shading blades 12 rotate at their first coupling points 121 around a first rotation axis 40 extending along the longitudinal blade direction 4. The shading blades 12 also rotate at their second coupling points 122 around a second rotation axis 41 extending along the longitudinal blade direction 4. In FIG. 5A, the distance from the first coupling point 121 to the second coupling point 122 of each of the shading blades 12 along a traverse direction 5 traverse to the longitudinal housing direction 3 and traverse to the longitudinal blade direction 4 is minimum. In FIG. 5B, the first rail 131 has been slightly translated along the longitudinal housing direction 3. As each of the shading blades is coupled to the first rail 131 and to the second rail 132, when translating along the longitudinal housing direction 3, the first rail 131 causes a translation of the second rail 132 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. In reaction to the translation of the second rail 132 along the longitudinal housing direction 3, the coupling element 133 limits a translation of the second rail 132 along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and the second rail 132 moves along a traverse direction 5 traverse to the longitudinal housing direction 3 and to the longitudinal blade direction 4. The shading blades 12 thereby rotate between the closed position 6 and a first open position 7 in which the shading blades 12 are arranged each spaced from the next along the longitudinal housing direction 3 by an opening formed between the second blade holder tip 225 of a shading blade 12 and the first blade holder tip 224 of the next shading blade 12. In FIG. 5B, the distance from the first coupling point 121 to the second coupling point 122 of each of the shading blades 12 along a traverse direction 5 traverse to the longitudinal housing direction 3 and traverse to the longitudinal blade direction 4 therefore increases with respect to the respective distance in FIG. 5A. Additionally, in FIG. 5B, the distance from the first coupling point 121 to the second coupling point 122 of each of the shading blades 12 along the longitudinal housing direction 3 therefore decreases with respect to the respective distance in FIG. 5A. In FIG. 5C, the first rail 131 has been further translated along the longitudinal housing direction 3. As each of the shading blades is coupled to the first rail 131 and to the second rail 132, when further translating along the longitudinal housing direction 3, the first rail 131 causes a further translation of the second rail 132 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. In reaction to the further translation of the second rail 132 along the longitudinal housing direction 3, the coupling element 133 further limits the translation of the second rail 132 along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and the second rail 132 further moves along the traverse direction 5 traverse to the longitudinal housing direction 3 and to the longitudinal blade direction 4. The shading blades 12 thereby further rotate between the first open position 7 and a second open position 7 in which the shading blades 12 are arranged each spaced from the next along the longitudinal housing direction 3 by an opening formed between the second blade holder tip 225 of a shading blade 12 and the first blade holder tip 224 of the next shading blade 12 larger than the opening of FIG. 5B. In FIG. 5C, the distance from the first coupling point 121 to the second coupling point 122 of each of the shading blades 12 along a traverse direction 5 traverse to the longitudinal housing direction 3 and traverse to the longitudinal blade direction 4 therefore increases with respect to the respective distance in FIG. 5B. Additionally, in FIG. 5C, the distance from the first coupling point 121 to the second coupling point 122 of each of the shading blades 12 along the longitudinal housing direction 3 therefore decreases with respect to the respective distance in FIG. 5B. In FIG. 5D, the first rail 131 has been further translated along the longitudinal housing direction 3. As each of the shading blades is coupled to the first rail 131 and to the second rail 132, when further translating along the longitudinal housing direction 3, the first rail 131 causes a further translation of the second rail 132 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. In reaction to the further translation of the second rail 132 along the longitudinal housing direction 3, the coupling element 133 further limits the translation of the second rail 132 along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and the second rail 132 further moves along the traverse direction 5 traverse to the longitudinal housing direction 3 and to the longitudinal blade direction 4. The shading blades 12 thereby further rotate between the second open position 7 and a third open position 7 in which the shading blades 12 are arranged each spaced from the next along the longitudinal housing direction 3 by an opening formed between the second blade holder tip 225 of a shading blade 12 and the first blade holder tip 224 of the next shading blade 12 larger than the opening of FIG. 5C. In FIG. 5D, the distance from the first coupling point 121 to the second coupling point 122 of each of the shading blades 12 along a traverse direction 5 traverse to the longitudinal housing direction 3 and traverse to the longitudinal blade direction 4 therefore increases with respect to the respective distance in FIG. 5C, and the second coupling points 122 are almost aligned with the respective first coupling points 121 along the traverse direction 5. Additionally, in FIG. 5D, the distance from the first coupling point 121 to the second coupling point 122 of each of the shading blades 12 along the longitudinal housing direction 3 therefore decreases with respect to the respective distance in FIG. 5C. In FIG. 5E, the first rail 131 has been further translated along the longitudinal housing direction 3. As each of the shading blades is coupled to the first rail 131 and to the second rail 132, when further translating along the longitudinal housing direction 3, the first rail 131 causes a further translation of the second rail 132 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. In reaction to the further translation of the second rail 132 along the longitudinal housing direction 3, the coupling element 133 further limits the translation of the second rail 132 along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and the second rail 132 further moves along the traverse direction 5 traverse to the longitudinal housing direction 3 and to the longitudinal blade direction 4. The shading blades 12 thereby further rotate between the third open position 7 and a fourth open position 7 in which the shading blades 12 are arranged each spaced from the next along the longitudinal housing direction 3 by an opening formed between the second blade holder tip 225 of a shading blade 12 and the first blade holder tip 224 of the next shading blade 12 larger than the opening of FIG. 5D. In FIG. 5E, the distance from the first coupling point 121 to the second coupling point 122 of each of the shading blades 12 along a traverse direction 5 traverse to the longitudinal housing direction 3 and traverse to the longitudinal blade direction 4 therefore increases with respect to the respective distance in FIG. 5D, and the second coupling points 122 are almost aligned with the respective first coupling points 121 along the traverse direction 5. Additionally, in FIG. 5E, the distance from the first coupling point 121 to the second coupling point 122 of each of the shading blades 12 along the longitudinal housing direction 3 therefore decreases with respect to the respective distance in FIG. 5D. In FIG. 5F, the first rail 131 has been further translated along the longitudinal housing direction 3. As each of the shading blades is coupled to the first rail 131 and to the second rail 132, when further translating along the longitudinal housing direction 3, the first rail 131 causes a further translation of the second rail 132 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. In reaction to the further translation of the second rail 132 along the longitudinal housing direction 3, the coupling element 133 further limits the translation of the second rail 132 along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and the second rail 132 further moves along the traverse direction 5 traverse to the longitudinal housing direction 3 and to the longitudinal blade direction 4. The shading blades 12 thereby further rotate between the fourth open position 7 and a fifth open position 7 in which the shading blades 12 are arranged each spaced from the next along the longitudinal housing direction 3 by an opening formed between the second blade holder tip 225 of a shading blade 12 and the first blade holder tip 224 of the next shading blade 12 larger than the opening of FIG. 5E. In FIG. 5F, the distance from the first coupling point 121 to the second coupling point 122 of each of the shading blades 12 along a traverse direction 5 traverse to the longitudinal housing direction 3 and traverse to the longitudinal blade direction 4 therefore increases with respect to the respective distance in FIG. 5E, and the second coupling points 122 are almost aligned with the respective first coupling points 121 along the traverse direction 5. Additionally, in FIG. 5F, the distance from the first coupling point 121 to the second coupling point 122 of each of the shading blades 12 along the longitudinal housing direction 3 therefore decreases with respect to the respective distance in FIG. 5E. The rotation between a closed position and the several open positions and vice versa happens continuously and smoothly. According to an alternative embodiment, the rotation happens gradually in stages. According to an alternative embodiment, when the first rail 131 is translated along a direction opposite to the longitudinal housing direction 3, as each of the shading blades is coupled to the first rail 131 and to the second rail 132, the first rail 131 causes a translation of the second rail 132 along a direction opposite to the longitudinal housing direction 3. In reaction to the translation of the second rail 132 along the longitudinal housing direction 3, the coupling element 133 limits the translation of the second rail 132 along a direction opposite to the longitudinal housing direction 3 and the second rail 132 moves along a direction opposite to the traverse direction 5 traverse to the longitudinal housing direction 3 and to the longitudinal blade direction 4. The shading blades 12 thereby rotate between an open position and another open position in which the shading blades 12 are arranged each spaced from the next along the longitudinal housing direction 3 by an opening formed between the second blade holder tip 225 of a shading blade 12 and the first blade holder tip 224 of the next shading blade 12 smaller than the previous opening. Alternatively, the shading blades 12 thereby rotate between an open position and the closed position 6. The distance from the first coupling point 121 to the second coupling point 122 of each of the shading blades 12 along a traverse direction 5 traverse to the longitudinal housing direction 3 and traverse to the longitudinal blade direction 4 therefore decreases with respect to the previous respective distance. Additionally, the distance from the first coupling point 121 to the second coupling point 122 of each of the shading blades 12 along the longitudinal housing direction 3 therefore increases with respect to the previous respective distance. The first rail 131 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. In other words, the first rail 131 comprises a first longitudinal axis 47 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The second rail 132 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. In other words, the second rail 132 comprises a second longitudinal axis 48 along the longitudinal housing direction 3.
(14) According to a side view of an embodiment shown in FIG. 6, a shading system 1 for covering an underlying space 2 according to the present invention comprises a housing 11, a plurality of shading blades 12 and a coupling system. Components having identical reference numbers than in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 and FIG. 5A to 5F fulfil the same functions. For clarity reasons, only a part of the shading system 1 is schematically illustrated. The shading system 1 is symmetric with respect to the plurality of shading blade 12 along the longitudinal blade direction 4. The housing 11 extends along a longitudinal housing direction 3. The shading system 1 further comprises a rain gutter 15 extending along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and arranged below the plurality of shading blades 12. The rain gutter 15 comprises a rain gutter coupling element which couples the rain gutter 15 to the housing 11 and a protecting element which extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The protecting element is arranged traverse to the longitudinal blade direction 4 such that the shading blades 12 partially overlap with the rain gutter 15 along the longitudinal blade direction 4. The shading blades 12 further comprises a closing lip 42 arranged at the start of the plurality of shading blades 12 in the shading system 1 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The closing lip 42 seals the plurality of shading blades 12 when the shading system 1 is in a closed position 6, thereby ensuring the underlying space remains dry and protected. Similarly, the plurality of shading blades 12 also comprises a closing lip arranged at the end of the plurality of shading blades 12 in the shading system 1 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The shading blades 12 are arranged one after the other along the longitudinal housing direction 3, each of the shading blades 12 extending along a longitudinal blade direction 4 traverse to the longitudinal housing direction 3. The shading blades 12 and the closing lips 42 are being movable between a closed position 6 in which the shading blades 12 cover the underlying space 2 and at least one open position. The coupling system is arranged between the housing 11 and the plurality of shading blades 12. The coupling system comprises a first rail 131, a second rail 132 and two coupling elements 133. The first rail 131 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and the first rail 131 translates along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The second rail 132 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. Each of the shading blades 12 and the closing lip 42 are rotatably coupled to the first rail 131 at a first coupling point 121 and each of the shading blades 12 and the closing lip 42 are also rotatably coupled to the second rail 132 at a second coupling point 122. The first rail 131 comprises a plurality of recesses 44 periodically defined along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The recesses 44 are defined in the holder 31 of the first rail 31. Each of the shading blades 12 and the closing lip 42 comprise a first rotating pin which fits in a respective recess 44 of the first rail 131 at the respective first coupling point 121 such that the respective shading blade 12 can rotate around a first rotation axis 40 at the first coupling point 121. In other words, the rotating pin rotates in the recess 44 of the first rail 131. Additionally, each of the shading blades 12 comprises a second rotating pin which is coupled to the second rail at the respective second coupling point 122 such that the respective shading blade 12 can rotate around a second rotation axis 41 at the second coupling point 122. Each of the coupling elements 133 is rotatably coupled to the housing 11 and each of the coupling elements 133 is also rotatably coupled to the second rail 132. Each of the coupling elements 133 limits a translation of the second rail 132 along the longitudinal housing direction 3, thereby rotating the shading blades 12 between the closed position 6 and at least one of the open positions. Each of the coupling elements 133 is for example a rod. The coupling elements 133 can be identical or different from each other. Each of the shading blades 12 comprises a strip 221 and a blade holder 222. Each strip 221 extends along the longitudinal blade direction 4, and each strip 221 comprises the second coupling point 122 of the respective shading blade 12. Each blade holder 223 comprises a blade holder body 223, a first blade holder tip 224 and a second blade holder tip 225. Each blade holder body 223 supports the strip 221 along the longitudinal blade direction 4. Each first blade holder tip 224 comprises the first coupling point 121 of the respective shading blade 12. Each second blade holder tip 225 is arranged opposite each respective first blade holder tip 224. In FIG. 6, the shading blades 12 are arranged partially superimposed, each over the next, with the second blade holder tip 225 of a shading blade 12 partially superimposing the first blade holder tip 224 of the next shading blade 12 along the longitudinal housing direction 4. The shading blades 12 rotate at their first coupling points 121 around a first rotation axis 40 extending along the longitudinal blade direction 4. The shading blades 12 also rotate at their second coupling points 122 around a second rotation axis 41 extending along the longitudinal blade direction 4. The first rail 131 comprises a holder 31 and a guide 33. The holder 31 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and is connected to each of the blade holders 222 at each of the first coupling points 121. The guide 33 is coupled to the holder. The guide 33 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and the guide 33 is coupled to the housing 11. The first rail 131 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. In other words, the first rail 131 comprises a first longitudinal axis 47 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The second rail 132 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. In other words, the second rail 132 comprises a second longitudinal axis 48 along the longitudinal housing direction 3.
(15) According to a cross-section of an embodiment shown in FIG. 7, a shading system 1 according to the present invention comprises two housings 11 parallel to each other and to which a plurality of shading blades 12 is coupled. Components having identical reference numbers than in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 and FIG. 5A to 5F and FIG. 6 fulfil the same functions. The shading system 1 for covering an underlying space 2 according to the present invention comprises on each side a housing 11, a plurality of shading blades 12, two coupling systems and two actuators 14. According to an alternative embodiment, the shading system 1 comprises one actuator 14. The housings 11 extend along a longitudinal housing direction 3. The shading blades 12 are arranged one after the other along the longitudinal housing direction 3, each of the shading blades 12 extending along a longitudinal blade direction 4 traverse to the longitudinal housing direction 3. The shading blades 12 are being movable between a closed position 6 in which the shading blades 12 cover the underlying space 2 and at least one open position. The coupling systems are arranged between the housings 11 and the plurality of shading blades 12. The coupling systems comprise a first rail 131, a second rail 132 and a coupling element 133. The first rails 131 extend along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and the first rails 131 translate along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The second rails 132 extend along the longitudinal housing direction 3. Each of the shading blades 12 is rotatably coupled to the first rail 131 at a first coupling point 121 and each of the shading blades 12 is also rotatably coupled to the second rail 132 at a second coupling point 122. Each of the shading blades 12 comprises a first rotating pin which fits in a respective recess of the first rail 131 at the respective first coupling point 121 such that the respective shading blade 12 can rotate around a first rotation axis 40 at the first coupling point 121. Additionally, each of the shading blades 12 comprises a second rotating pin 46 which is coupled to the second rail 132 at the respective second coupling point 122 such that the respective shading blade 12 can rotate around a second rotation axis 41 at the second coupling point 122. The coupling elements 133 are rotatably coupled to the housings 11 and the coupling elements 133 are also rotatably coupled to the second rails 132. The actuators 14 translate the first rail 131 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The coupling elements 133 limit a translation of the second rail 132 along the longitudinal housing direction 3, thereby rotating the shading blades 12 between the closed position 6 and at least one of the open positions. The shading system 1 further comprises two rain gutters 15 extending along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and arranged below the plurality of shading blades 12. The rain gutters 15 comprise a rain gutter coupling element 151 which couples the rain gutter 15 to the housing 11 and a protecting element 152 which extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The protecting elements 152 are arranged traverse to the longitudinal blade direction 4 such that the shading blades 12 partially overlap with the rain gutter 15 along the longitudinal blade direction 4. Each of the shading blades 12 comprises a strip 221 and a blade holder 222. Each strip 221 extends along the longitudinal blade direction 4, and each strip 221 comprises the second coupling point 122 of the respective shading blade 12. Each blade holder 223 comprises a blade holder body 223, a first blade holder tip 224 and a second blade holder tip 225. Each blade holder body 223 supports the strip 221 along the longitudinal blade direction 4. Each first blade holder tip 224 comprises the first coupling point 121 of the respective shading blade 12. Each second blade holder tip 225 is arranged opposite each respective first blade holder tip 224. In FIG. 7, the shading blades 12 are arranged partially superimposed, each over the next, with the second blade holder tip 225 of a shading blade 12 partially superimposing the first blade holder tip 224 of the next shading blade 12 along the longitudinal housing direction 4. The shading blades 12 rotate at their first coupling points 121 around a first rotation axis 40 extending along the longitudinal blade direction 4. The shading blades 12 also rotate at their second coupling points 122 around a second rotation axis 41 extending along the longitudinal blade direction 4. The first rails 131 comprise a holder 31 and a guide 33. The holder 31 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and is connected to each of the blade holders 222 at each of the first coupling points 121. The holder 31 comprises at least one pair of wheels 32 which can translate along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The guide 33 is coupled to the holder 31. The guide 33 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and the guide 33 is coupled to the housing 11. The guide 33 guides the pair of wheels 32 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The actuators 14 are coupled to the holder 31 and thereby translate the holder 31 of the first rail 131. The protecting elements 152 of the rain gutter 15 further comprise a brush 50 which extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The brushes 50 are arranged such that each of the blade holders 222 lies onto the brush 50 when the shading blades 12 are in a closed position 6. The coupling elements 133 are for example rods. The first rail 131 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. In other words, the first rail 131 comprises a first longitudinal axis 47 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The second rail 132 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. In other words, the second rail 132 comprises a second longitudinal axis 48 along the longitudinal housing direction 3.
(16) According to an embodiment shown in FIG. 8, a shade assembly 8 comprises two shading systems 1 according to the present invention which share the same plurality of shading blades 12. The shading system 1 comprises a housing 11. The housing 11 is continuous and rectangular and the housing 11 comprises two pairs of opposite sides 53;54;55;56 such that the housing 11 of the pair of opposite sides 55;56 extends along a longitudinal housing direction 3 and such that the housing 11 of the other pair of opposite sides 53;54 extends along a longitudinal blade direction 4 traverse to the longitudinal housing direction 3. The shade assembly 8 further comprises two feet 55. Only one of these feet 55 is visible in FIG. 8 due to the perspective. The shade assembly 8 is for example mounted on a façade of a building on the side 54 of the housing 11, thereby covering an underlying space 2 close to the building. According to an alternative embodiment, the shade assembly 8 comprises one foot 55 and the housing 11 is mounted on a façade of a building for example on the sides 56 and 54 or on the sides 56 and 53 or on the sides 54 and 55 or on the sides 55 and 53. According to a further alternative embodiment, the shade assembly 8 comprises four feet 55 when for example the housing is not mounted on a façade of a building. According to further alternative embodiments, the shade assembly 8 comprises more than four feet 55. This increases the stability of the shade 8. The shade assembly 8 comprises a plurality of shading blades 12 arranged one after the other along the longitudinal housing direction 3, each of the shading blades 12 extending along the longitudinal blade direction 4. The shading blades 12 are movable between a closed position 6 and at least one open position. The shade assembly 8 further comprises a closing lip 42 arranged at the start of the plurality of shading blades 12 in the shading systems 1 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. Each shading system 1 comprises a coupling system between the housing 11 and the plurality of shading shades 12. As visible on the zoom on FIG. 8. each coupling system comprises a first rail 131 which comprises a first longitudinal axis 47 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. In other words, the first rail 131 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The first rail 131 can translate along the longitudinal housing direction 3. As visible on the zoom on FIG. 8. each shading system 1 further comprises a second rail 132 which comprises a second longitudinal axis 48 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. In other words, the second rail 132 extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3. The second rail 132 can translate along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and can also translate along the longitudinal housing direction 3 with respect to the first rail 131. The first rail 131 comprises a first longitudinal axis 47 extending between the two edges 51 and 52 of the first rail 131. In other words, the first rail 131 extends for example five times, or ten times, or several hundred times more along the longitudinal housing direction 3 than along the longitudinal blade direction 4. The second rail 132 comprises a second longitudinal axis 48 extending between the two edges 57 and 58 of the second rail 132. In other words, the second rail 132 extends for example five times, or ten times, or several hundred times more along the longitudinal housing direction 3 than along the longitudinal blade direction 4. The second rail 132 is also shorter than the first rail 131 along the longitudinal housing direction 3, thereby allowing a relative movement of the second rail 132 with respect to the first rail 131 when the actuator translates the first rail 131 along the longitudinal housing direction 3. Each shading system 1 of the shade assembly 8 comprises a rain gutter 15 which extends along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and arranged below the plurality of shading blades 12. The rain gutter 15 comprises a protecting element 152. According to an alternative embodiment, the shade assembly 8 comprises a rain gutter 15 on all sides 53;54;55;56. Preferably, the shade assembly 8 for example measures 6 meters along the longitudinal housing direction 3, and measures 4 meters along the longitudinal blade direction 4 and is 2.5 meters high with respect to the ground on the underlying space 2 along the traverse direction 5. According to alternative embodiments, the shade 8 measures several meters along the longitudinal housing direction 3 and measures several meters along the longitudinal blade direction 4 and is several meters high along the traverse direction 5, wherein the length of the housing 11 of the shade assembly 8 along the longitudinal housing direction 3 is larger than the length of the housing 11 of the shade assembly 8 along the longitudinal blade direction 4. According to an alternative embodiment, the shade assembly 8 only comprises one shading system 1 which comprises a housing 11 and a plurality of shading blades and a coupling system between the housing 11 and the plurality of shading shades 12. For example, the shade assembly 8 comprises only one shading system 1 arranged at the side 56 of the shade assembly 8. According to an alternative embodiment, the shade assembly 8 comprises only one shading system 1 arranged at the side 55 of the shade 8. In this embodiment, the shade assembly 8 for example comprises a rain gutter 15 on all sides 53;54;55;56.
(17) Although the present invention has been illustrated by reference to specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the invention is not limited to the details of the foregoing illustrative embodiments, and that the present invention may be embodied with various changes and modifications without departing from the scope thereof. The present embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the invention being indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description, and all changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be embraced therein. In other words, it is contemplated to cover any and all modifications, variations or equivalents that fall within the scope of the basic underlying principles and whose essential attributes are claimed in this patent application. It will furthermore be understood by the reader of this patent application that the words “comprising” or “comprise” do not exclude other elements or steps, that the words “a” or “an” do not exclude a plurality, and that a single element, such as a computer system, a processor, or another integrated unit may fulfil the functions of several means recited in the claims. Any reference signs in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the respective claims concerned. The terms “first”, “second”, third”, “a”, “b”, “c”, and the like, when used in the description or in the claims are introduced to distinguish between similar elements or steps and are not necessarily describing a sequential or chronological order. Similarly, the terms “top”, “bottom”, “over”, “under”, and the like are introduced for descriptive purposes and not necessarily to denote relative positions. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and embodiments of the invention are capable of operating according to the present invention in other sequences, or in orientations different from the one(s) described or illustrated above.
