BE1026474B1 - AN ADAPTIVE SUNSET SYSTEM - Google Patents

Abstract

A sun protection system (1) for covering an underlying space (2), comprising: - a plurality of slats (100); - a plurality of environmental sensors (101), comprising: - a location determination unit (111); - a local time unit (112); - a unit for wind speed measurement (116); - a moisture detection unit (118); - a presence detector (113); - a light detector (114); and - a temperature sensor (115); - a position optimization unit (102) configured to identify a predetermined optimized position (21) for said plurality of slats (100) by applying a predetermined set of rules (3); and - operating means (103) configured to move said slats (100) from an initial position (10) to said predetermined optimized position (21).

Description

BE2019 / 5460

AN ADAPTIVE SUNSET SYSTEM

Field of application of the invention The present invention relates generally to a sun protection system to cover an underlying space. More specifically, the present invention generally relates to a sunshade system to protect an underlying space against weather influences and in particular against sun and rain.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Various solutions are known for outdoor space shading devices comprising a supporting structure, for example a roof, fixed in the ground and provided with a longitudinal frame supporting a plurality of slats. The slats are mounted on the frame so that they can rotate relative to the frame between an open position and a closed position in which the slats protect an underlying space. Such sun protection systems are described, for example, in US2018 / 100310A1, DE29502035U1, US2011 / 227695A1 and US2009 / 020233A1.

An example of such a covering device is described in BE1019571. The roof assembly of BE1019571 is used to protect underlying surfaces such as terraces and patios against weather influences such as sunlight, rain, wind, etc. The roof assembly of BE1019571 is also used to transmit sunlight to the underlying surfaces when desired by a person in the underlying space. The roof assembly of BE1019571 comprises a support frame and a plurality of slats or blinds mounted on the support frame. All slats of BE1019571 can be moved simultaneously with respect to the support frame. The slats can be moved between a closed position and at least one open position. An example is described in BE1019571 in which the slats can be rotated at

-2 rainfall so that the rainwater can flow to a rain gutter arranged in the BE2019 / 5460 support frame. The slats of BE1019571 can be moved manually by a person via a manual control system. Alternatively, the BE1019571 slats can be moved by a motor that is operated by a person.

[04] Just like with a parasol and / or a canopy, the light and the shade caused by the sun on the roof assembly of BE1019571 change during the day and from season to season. In addition, the sunlight and the shade depend on the orientation of the roof assembly of BE1019571. For example, a person located in the space below the roof assembly of BE1019571 can leave the slats in a closed position, but then runs the risk of insufficient ventilation in the underlying space. On the other hand, the person may, for example, rotate the slats to an open position, but may then face undesirable direct sunlight in the underlying space at a certain time during the day. In both cases the person will have to take action to move the slats.

[05] Moreover, in the case where the roof assembly of BE1019571 is arranged against a facade, for example of a home, the roof assembly of BE1019571 prevents some of the sunlight from reaching the facade and the space of the house. A person in the room will therefore have to take action to move the slats if direct sunlight is desired in the room. For example, direct sunlight may be desirable in winter to increase the temperature of the room in a sustainable way.

The roof assembly of BE1019571 therefore does not respond to weather influences such as sunlight, rain, wind, etc. The slats of BE1019571 must be operated either manually or via a motor by a person if that person so wishes. The roof assembly of BE1019571 relies on the knowledge of the people who are in the underlying space to determine when it is desirable to adjust the roof assembly and to act accordingly. For example, the roof assembly is not adaptive when it starts to rain and when the sun sets in the evening and visibility in the underlying space

-3 drops. Without the intervention of a person located in the underlying space BE2019 / 5460, the underlying space would become wet and / or windy and / or shady and / or too warm, which may be undesirable for the people in the underlying space are located. The underlying space is therefore not protected in an efficient and reliable manner against weather influences by the roof assembly of BE1019571. The comfort of a person in the underlying space is not guaranteed and there is a high risk that this comfort is compromised by weather influences during the period that is spent in the underlying space.

[07] It is desirable to stop light and / or rain and / or wind when it is annoying for the people in an underlying space and it is desirable to heat or cool the underlying space if desired. It is an object of the present invention to describe a device that overcomes the shortcomings of existing solutions identified above. In particular, it is an objective to describe an improved sun protection system that responds autonomously and automatically to weather conditions and that improves living comfort in an underlying space.

Summary of the Invention According to a first aspect of the present invention, the above objectives are achieved by a sun protection system for covering an underlying space, the sun protection system comprising the following:

- a plurality of slats arranged in an initial position, the slats being adapted to be movable between a plurality of predetermined positions;

- a multitude of environmental sensors, including:

o a location determination unit configured to determine a geographical location;

o a local time unit that is configured to determine a local time at the geographic location;

-4o a wind speed measurement unit configured to measure the BE2019 / 5460 wind speed on the plurality of slats;

o a moisture detection unit configured to detect rain on the plurality of slats;

o a presence detector configured to detect presence in the underlying space;

o a light detector configured to detect sunlight on the plurality of slats; and o a temperature sensor configured to measure an outside temperature;

- a position optimization unit operatively linked to the ambient sensors, the position optimization unit being configured to identify a predetermined optimized position for the plurality of slats by applying a predetermined set of rules to one or several of the geographical location, the local time, the presence, the sunlight, the outside temperature, the wind speed, the rain; and

operating means operatively coupled to the position optimization unit, wherein the operating means are configured to move the slats from the initial position to the predetermined optimized position.

The sun protection system according to the present invention is an adaptive sun protection system. The sunshade system according to the present invention comprises a plurality of slats that are automatically moved to optimized positions for the people in the underlying space and / or for the sunshade system itself and for the weather conditions detected by the ambient sensors. In other words, the slats according to the present invention are always in an ideal position, ie they are continuously moved at an angle so that their position is always ideal for people who are in the underlying space and / or for the sun protection system itself with the view of the detected weather conditions. The use of the multitude of ambient sensors enables the sun protection system to continuously monitor the weather conditions during the day and night and to continuously adjust the position of the slats to an optimized

-5BE2019 / 5460 position for the identified weather conditions and for a possible person who is in the underlying space. An optimized position for a person who is in the underlying space is, for example, a position of the slats that offers the best comfort for the person who is in the underlying space in terms of brightness, temperature, ventilation, heat, etc. An optimized position for the sun protection system itself, for example, is a position of the slats that protects the integrity of the sun protection system, for example during a storm. The awning system according to the present invention is not based on the knowledge of the persons in the underlying space to determine when it would be desirable to adjust the slats and act accordingly. For example, the slats are automatically and immediately moved to the closed position when it starts to rain. Even without the intervention of a person located in the underlying space, the underlying space will not get wet, which significantly improves the comfort of the people located in the underlying space.

[10] The sun protection system according to the present invention responds to weather conditions such as one or more of wind, rain, sunlight, presence of a person or person in the underlying space, temperature, and the sun protection system also takes into account a geographical location and / or local time when it responds to weather conditions. The slats according to the present invention can automatically rotate to specific angles of a predetermined optimized position depending on one or more weather conditions that are autonomously detected by the sun protection system. In other words, the multitude of environmental sensors enables the sun protection system to automatically detect one or more weather conditions and to be autonomously adaptive to take into account one or more weather conditions when determining a predetermined optimized position for the slats. In this way the sun protection system protects the underlying space in an efficient and reliable manner. The sunshade system according to the present invention thereby improves the comfort of people who are in the underlying space. The ambient sensors can continuously monitor one or more of the geographical location, the local time, the presence, the sunlight, the outside temperature, the wind speed, the

Follow-up and the position optimization unit can continuously identify a predetermined optimized position for the plurality of slats. Alternatively, the ambient sensors regularly identify one or more of the geographic location, local time, presence, sunlight, outdoor temperature, wind speed, and rain, and the position optimization unit can regularly identify a predetermined optimized position for the plurality of slats. . For example, the ambient sensors periodically identify one or more of the geographic location, the local time, the presence, the sunlight, the outside temperature, the wind speed, the rain and the position optimization unit can periodically determine a predetermined optimized position for the plurality of slats. identify. Alternatively, the position optimization unit only identifies a predetermined optimized position for the plurality of slats when one or more of the environmental sensors detect changes in one or more of the geographic location, the local time, the presence, the sunlight, the outside temperature , the wind speed, the rain.

[11] The location determination unit of the present invention includes, for example, a Global Positioning System or GPS. Alternatively, the location-determining unit includes a satellite-based radio navigation system such as Galileo. The location determination unit receives geolocation and time information from a global satellite navigation system. The geographical location of the sun protection system includes geolocation of the sun protection system and time information. The geographic location of the sunblind system includes, for example, coordinates of the sunblind system, for example, three-dimensional cartesian coordinates originating in the center of the earth. Alternatively, the location determination unit includes, for example, a location receiver configured to receive the geographic location of the sunblind system from the internet. The location determination unit receives the geographic location of the sunblind system, for example, when the sunblind system is installed and connected to the internet, wirelessly or via an internet cable. In that case, the location determination unit only needs to receive the geographic location of the sunblind system once. Alternatively, the unit for location determination comprises

BE2019 / 5460

-7 any suitable device configured to determine the geolocation of the sunblind system.

[12] The local timing unit of the present invention includes, for example, a time indication system configured to determine a local time associated with the geographic location of the sunblind system. Alternatively, the local time unit includes, for example, a local time receiver configured to receive the local time at the geographic location of the sunblind system from the internet. For example, the local time unit receives the local time at the geographic location of the sunblind system when the sunblind system is installed and connected to the internet, wirelessly or via an internet cable. In that case, the local time unit only needs to receive the local time at the geographic location of the sunblind system once. Alternatively, the local time unit synchronizes the local time, for example, every time a person in the underlying space connects to the sunblind system via, for example, an application on a smartphone and / or tablet.

The wind speed measurement unit of the present invention is configured to detect wind blowing on the plurality of slats and is further configured to measure the speed of the wind blowing on the plurality of slats. The unit for wind speed measurement, for example, measures a wind speed in meters per second or in kilometers per hour. The wind speed measurement unit is preferably located close to the side of the sunblind system opposite the side facing the underlying space. The sun protection system according to the present invention comprises, for example, an anemometer which can measure the speed of the wind blowing on the slats. For example, when the wind speed measurement unit measures a wind speed close to zero meters per second, the wind speed measurement unit measures that no wind is blowing on the blades. Alternatively, the wind speed measurement unit is further configured to determine a direction of the wind relative to the geographic location of the sunblind system and its orientation. In other words, the wind speed measurement unit is configured to determine a direction of wind on the slats, for example

BE2019 / 5460

-8BE2019 / 5460 north, south, east or west, or any possible combination thereof. For example, wind direction is measured in degrees clockwise from the north so that a wind from the north has a wind direction of 0 degrees; a wind from the east is 90 degrees; a wind from the south has a wind direction of 180 degrees. A wind from the west is 270 degrees or -90 degrees. In general, wind directions are sometimes expressed as -180 to 180 and sometimes from 0 to 360. A wide range of instruments can be used to measure wind direction, such as the windsock and wind vane. Both instruments determine a direction of the wind by moving to minimize air resistance. The direction in which a vane points by the prevailing wind indicates the direction from which the wind blows.

[14] The moisture detection unit of the present invention includes, for example, a rain detector configured to detect rain on the plurality of slats. The moisture detection unit further optionally includes a snow detector configured to detect snow on the plurality of slats. The moisture detection unit is preferably located close to the side of the sun protection system opposite to the side facing the underlying space.

[15] The presence detector according to the present invention comprises, for example, a motion sensor, a distance sensor, etc. A distance sensor detects, for example, the presence of a machine, an object, a living entity, etc. near the sun protection system. A distance sensor, for example, detects a change in the composition of the atmosphere in the underlying space, for example a change in the CO2 concentration. Alternatively, a remote sensor comprises an infrared sensor configured to detect presence near the sun protection system by detecting presence in the underlying space of the sun protection system using infrared. Alternatively, the awning system includes a motion sensor configured to detect motion from a machine, an object, a living entity, etc. near the awning system. The sunblind system includes, for example, a motion sensor configured to detect that a person enters and / or leaves the underlying space of the sunblind system.

[16] The light detector of the present invention is configured to detect BE2019 / 5460 sunlight on the plurality of slats. The light detector comprises, for example, a light sensor configured to measure a light intensity in the underlying space of the sunblind system and / or further configured to detect light intensity and measure a light intensity of sunlight reaching the top of the slats.

[17] The position optimization unit is configured, for example, to identify an initial position of the slats. In other words, the position optimization unit is, for example, configured to determine whether the slats are in a closed position or in a predetermined open position. The position optimization unit applies a predetermined set of rules to the data that the position optimization unit receives from the plurality of environmental sensors. The set of rules includes, for example, one or more algorithms that the position optimization unit can perform in a predetermined sequence and on a predetermined sequence of data from the ambient sensors. Several predetermined optimized positions are stored in the position optimization unit. These predetermined optimized positions may be preprogrammed in the sunblind system during manufacture. Alternatively, the predetermined optimized positions may further comprise predetermined optimized positions programmed by the user of the sunblind system according to the present invention. In this way the sun protection system can be personalized by the user, which further improves his / her comfort.

[18] Optionally, the environmental sensors of the sunshade system of the present invention comprise an orientation determination unit. The orientation determining unit is configured to determine a geographic orientation of the sunblind system once the sunblind system is installed. The orientation determining unit receives, for example, the orientation that is manually entered by a user during assembly of the sun protection system, for example north, south, east or west, or any possible combinations thereof. The orientation of the sun protection system is understood as an orientation towards

- The 10th front of the sun protection system is oriented as soon as the sun protection system is mounted BE2019 / 5460. Alternatively, the orientation determining unit comprises a compass.

The orientation determining unit is then configured to determine the orientation of the sunshade system based on the compass and the relative position of the compass relative to the front of the sunshade system.

[19] Slats according to the present invention are operated synchronously with each other. Alternatively, the slats are operated independently of each other, or independently of at least one other slat. The slats can, for example, rotate around an axis extending in the longitudinal slat direction when operated by the operating means.

[20] According to an optional aspect of the invention, the position optimization unit is configured to identify the predetermined optimized position for the plurality of slats by applying the predetermined set of rules to one or more of the geographic location, the local time, presence, sunlight, outside temperature, wind speed, rain, where the predetermined set of rules includes the following:

- determining the initial position of the slats;

- receiving the geographic location of said location determination unit;

- receiving the local time from the local time unit;

- receiving the wind speed from the wind speed measurement unit;

- determining whether the moisture detection unit detects rain on the plurality of slats;

- determining whether the presence detector detects presence in the underlying space;

- determining whether the light detector detects sunlight on the plurality of slats;

- receiving the outside temperature from the temperature sensor; and

- comparing the outside temperature with a threshold value for outside temperature.

[21] In this way, the position optimization unit is configured to identify a predetermined optimized position by a predetermined one

- 11 apply a specific sequence of a predetermined set of rules. The first BE2019 / 5460 rule includes identifying an initial position of the slats. The geographic location and local time are then received and / or retrieved from installation parameters as described above. The unit for wind speed measurement then determines whether there is wind blowing on the plurality of slats and, if there is wind, what its speed is. The threshold value for outside temperature is, for example, 20 degrees Celsius. Alternatively, the threshold value for outside temperature is, for example, 25 degrees Celsius.

[22] When the wind speed measurement unit detects the presence of wind on the slats and measures a wind speed that is higher than a predetermined threshold for wind speed, the sunblind system according to the present invention moves the slats, for example, to an angle of, for example, 5% with respect to from the closed position. Alternatively, when the wind speed measurement unit detects the presence of wind on the slats and measures a wind speed that is higher than a predetermined threshold for wind speed, the sunblind system according to the present invention moves the slats, for example, to an angle of, for example, 10% with respect to from the closed position.

[23] By following this specific sequence of rules, it is guaranteed in the most reliable manner that the multitude of slats is always in an ideal position, ie is continuously moved at an angle so that its position is always ideal for people who are located in the underlying space and / or for the sun protection system itself in view of the detected weather conditions. The specific sequence of rules allows the sunblind system to continuously monitor weather conditions during the day and night and to continuously autonomously adjust the position of the slats to an optimized position for the identified weather conditions and for a possible person who is in the underlying space.

[24] According to an optional aspect of the invention, the sun protection system BE2019 / 5460 further comprises a housing which extends in a longitudinal housing direction and wherein the housing comprises one or more of the following:

- the multitude of environmental sensors;

- the unit for position optimization;

- the operating means.

[25] In this way, the sun protection system is made compact as all environmental sensors are integrated in the housing. The housing also protects all ambient sensors and the unit for position optimization and the control means against weather influences. This minimizes the need for maintenance and further increases the lifespan of the sun protection system. The sunblind system further optionally comprises a battery to operate the plurality of environmental sensors and / or the position optimization unit and / or the operating means. The battery of the sunblind system includes, for example, solar cells configured to operate the plurality of ambient sensors and / or the position optimization unit and / or the operating means. Alternatively, the sun protection system includes components for connection to the electricity grid.

[26] According to an optional aspect of the invention, the plurality of slats are arranged one behind the other in the longitudinal housing direction, wherein each of the slats extends in a longitudinal slat direction transversely of the longitudinal housing direction; the slats being movable between a closed position with the slats partially superposed, each slat over the next, so as to cover the underlying space, and at least one of the predetermined positions, each slat having a distance from the next through an opening formed between a slat and the next slat along the longitudinal housing direction.

[27] According to an optional aspect of the invention, each of the slats comprises:

- a strip extending in the longitudinal slat direction, the strip comprising the second coupling point; and

- a slat holder comprising:

13o a vane holder body configured to support the strip in the BE2019 / 5460 longitudinal vane direction;

o a first flap holder end comprising the first coupling point;

and a second flap holder end opposite the first flap holder end.

A plurality of slats are arranged one behind the other in the longitudinal housing direction, each of the slats extending in a longitudinal slat direction transversely of said longitudinal housing direction and the slats being movable between a closed position with the slats being partially superposed, each slat over the next, so as to cover the underlying space, and at least one open position wherein each slat is arranged with a distance to the next formed by an opening. In this way the awning system is watertight and the space under the slats remains dry when the slats are in a closed position. In addition, ventilation in the underlying space, or in other words air circulation in the underlying space, is possible in any of the predetermined positions in which each slat is arranged with a distance to the next formed by an opening.

[29] According to an optional aspect of the invention, when the slats are in the closed position, the slats are partially superimposed, each slat over the next, with the second slat holder end of a slat partially superimposed over the first slat holder end of the next slat. in the longitudinal housing direction.

[30] In this way the sun protection system is watertight and the space under the slats remains dry when the slats are in a closed position.

[31] According to an optional aspect of the invention, when the slats are in the open position, the slats are arranged such that each slat is spaced apart from the next formed by an opening between the second slat holder end of a slat and the first slat holder end of the next slat in the longitudinal housing direction.

- 14BE2019 / 5460 [32] In this way the sun protection system allows light and other weather influences to reach the underlying space under the slats of the sun protection system when the slats are arranged with a distance to the next formed by an opening.

[33] According to an optional aspect of the invention, the predetermined optimized position corresponds to a vertical position of the slats wherein the slats are transverse to the longitudinal housing direction when:

- the presence detector detects presence in the underlying space and the light detector does not detect sunlight on the plurality of slats and the outside temperature is higher than the threshold value for outside temperature; or

- the presence detector does not detect presence in the underlying space and the light detector does not detect sunlight on the plurality of slats and the outside temperature is higher than the outside temperature threshold; or

- the presence detector does not detect presence in the underlying space and the light detector does not detect sunlight on the plurality of slats and the outside temperature is lower than or equal to the threshold value for outside temperature.

[34] In this way, the predetermined set of rules applied by the position optimization unit is as follows:

Situation 1: does the presence detector detect presence in the underlying space?

if yes:

then: does the light detector detect sunlight?

if no:

does the temperature sensor measure an outside temperature that is higher than an outside temperature threshold?

if yes:

the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined optimized position in which the slats are rotated so that they are vertical, i.e. they are at an angle of

- 1590 degrees are positioned relative to the closed BE2019 / 5460 position.

Situation 2:

does the presence detector detect presence in the underlying space?

if no:

then: does the light detector detect sunlight?

if no:

does the temperature sensor measure an outside temperature that is higher than an outside temperature threshold?

if yes:

the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined optimized position in which the slats are rotated so that they are vertical, i.e. they are positioned at an angle of degrees with respect to the closed position.

Situation 3:

does the presence detector detect presence in the underlying space?

if no:

then: does the light detector detect sunlight?

if no:

does the temperature sensor measure an outside temperature that is lower than or equal to an outside temperature threshold?

if yes:

the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined optimized position in which the slats are rotated so that they are vertical, i.e. they are positioned at an angle of degrees with respect to the closed position.

[35] In situation 1 the slats are in this way in position to allow maximum ventilation in the underlying space. In situations 2 and 3 the

- 16 slats in this way in position to allow maximum sunlight into the underlying space BE2019 / 5460.

[36] According to an optional aspect of the invention, the predetermined optimized position corresponds to the closed position of the slats with the slats extending in the longitudinal housing direction when the presence detector detects presence in the underlying space and the light detector does not detect sunlight on the plurality of slats and the outside temperature is lower than or equal to the threshold value for outside temperature.

[37] In this way, the predetermined set of rules applied by the position optimization unit is as follows:

Situation 4:

does the presence detector detect presence in the underlying space?

if yes:

then: does the light detector detect sunlight?

if no:

does the temperature sensor measure an outside temperature that is lower than or equal to an outside temperature threshold?

if yes:

the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined optimized position in which the slats are rotated so that they are horizontal, i.e. they are in the closed position.

[38] In situation 4 the slats are in this way in position to retain as much heat as possible under the slats.

[39] According to an optional aspect of the invention, the position optimization unit is further configured to regularly identify a predetermined optimized position for said plurality of slats when:

- the presence detector detects presence in the underlying space and BE2019 / 5460 the light detector detects sunlight on the plurality of slats and the outside temperature is higher than the threshold value for outside temperature; or

- the presence detector detects presence in the underlying space and the light detector detects sunlight on the plurality of slats and the outside temperature is lower than or equal to the threshold value for outside temperature; or

- the presence detector does not detect presence in the underlying space and the light detector detects sunlight on the plurality of slats and the outside temperature is higher than the outside temperature threshold; or

- the presence detector does not detect presence in the underlying space and the light detector detects sunlight on the plurality of slats and the outside temperature is lower than or equal to the threshold value for outside temperature.

[40] In this way, the predetermined set of rules applied by the position optimization unit is as follows:

Situation 5:

does the presence detector detect presence in the underlying space?

if yes:

then: does the light detector detect sunlight?

if yes:

does the temperature sensor measure an outside temperature that is higher than an outside temperature threshold?

if yes:

the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined optimized position.

Situation 6:

does the presence detector detect presence in the underlying space?

if yes:

then: does the light detector detect sunlight?

if yes:

- Does the temperature sensor measure an outside temperature that is lower than whether BE2019 / 5460 equals a threshold value for outside temperature?

if yes:

the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined optimized position.

Situation 7:

does the presence detector detect presence in the underlying space?

if no:

then: does the light detector detect sunlight?

if yes:

does the temperature sensor measure an outside temperature that is higher than an outside temperature threshold?

if yes:

the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined optimized position.

Situation 8:

does the presence detector detect presence in the underlying space?

if no:

then: does the light detector detect sunlight?

if yes:

does the temperature sensor measure an outside temperature that is lower than or equal to an outside temperature threshold?

if yes:

the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined optimized position.

[41] In situation 5 the slats are in this way in position to allow maximum ventilation in the underlying space and to allow maximum shadow in the underlying space. In situation 6 the slats are in this way in position to allow maximum sunlight into the underlying space. In situation 7 the slats are in this way in position to allow maximum ventilation in the underlying space and to let sunlight into the underlying space

- 19 ranges and shadow in the underlying space possible. In situation 8 BE2019 / 5460 the slats are in this way in position to allow maximum sunlight to reach the underlying space and to accumulate heat in the underlying space.

[42] According to an optional aspect of the invention, when the wind comes from the south, the initial position corresponds to the closed position and the operating means are further configured to gradually increase the openings so that the slats are positioned in the vertical at noon position so that the openings are maximized at sunset.

[43] Alternatively, the sun protection system further optionally comprises means for determining the position of the sun in the sky and the operating means are further configured to gradually increase the apertures so that the slats are in the vertical position when the sun is highest, in other words, around noon, and so that said openings are maximized at sunset. Alternatively, sunset is determined when the sun is lowest in the sky in the west.

[44] According to an optional aspect of the invention, when the wind comes from the north, the initial position corresponds to a position where the openings are maximum and the operating means are further configured to gradually reduce the openings so that the slats are positioned on the afternoon in the vertical position and so that the slats are in the closed position at sunset.

[45] Alternatively, the sun protection system further optionally comprises means for determining the position of the sun in the sky and the operating means are further configured to gradually reduce the apertures so that the slats are in the vertical position when the sun is highest and so that the slats are in said closed position at sunset. Alternatively, sunset is determined when the sun is lowest in the sky in the west.

[46] According to an optional aspect of the invention, when the wind comes from the BE2019 / 5460 east, the initial position corresponds to the vertical position and the operating means are further configured to gradually increase the openings to a maximum open position and to the operating means further configured to gradually reduce the openings to sunset.

[47] According to an optional aspect of the invention, when the wind comes from the west, the initial position corresponds to the vertical position and the operating means are further configured to gradually reduce the openings to a minimum open position and the operating means are further configured to gradually enlarge the openings until sunset.

[48] According to an optional aspect of the invention, when the moisture detection unit detects rain on the plurality of slats, the predetermined optimized position for the plurality of slats is the closed position.

[49] In this way the underlying space remains dry.

[50] According to an optional aspect of the invention, the predetermined optimized position for the plurality of slats when the outside temperature is lower than a freezing temperature corresponds to the minimum open position.

[51] In this way, the integrity of the sun protection system is protected when it freezes. The freezing temperature is, for example, 5 degrees Celsius. Alternatively, the freezing temperature is, for example, 0 degrees Celsius.

[52] According to an optional aspect of the invention, the predetermined optimized position for the plurality of slats when the outside temperature is lower than a freezing temperature corresponds to the minimum open position when the moisture detection unit detects snow.

[53] According to an optional aspect of the invention, the sun protection system further comprises one or more screens which are located in the longitudinal housing direction.

-21 and / or the longitudinal slat direction, wherein each of the screens is adapted to move between a rolled-up position where the screen is rolled up in the housing of the sunblind system and a rolled-up position where the screen extends in a transverse direction.

[54] In this way, one or more screens are configured by the position optimization unit to roll and roll up depending on the position of the sun relative to the sun protection system. A screen according to the present invention is, for example, a screen made of a flexible material, for example fabric, which can for instance be coated, or a flexible plastic material. The position of the sun relative to the sunblind system is monitored by, for example, the location-determining unit which contains, for example, a Global Positioning System or GPS. Alternatively, the location-determining unit includes a satellite-based radio navigation system such as Galileo. The location determination unit receives geolocation and time information from a global satellite navigation system. The geographical location of the sun protection system includes geolocation of the sun protection system and time information. The position of the sun in relation to the sun protection system is determined and monitored on the basis of the geolocation of the sun protection system and the time information. The orientation of each of the screens relative to the sun protection system is a parameter that is supplied to the sun protection system. A screen is configured to roll in a transverse direction or to roll up in a transverse direction when the position of the sun relative to the sun protection system is such that the sun shines on the sun protection system according to the orientation of the associated screen relative to the sun protection system . The position of the sun relative to the sun protection system is monitored, for example, by the location determination unit, for example, the sun protection system monitors an angle between the sun and the longitudinal housing direction that extends from the center of the sun protection system in the longitudinal slat direction. This angle is monitored by the sun protection system with a tolerance of +/- 45 degrees with respect to the center of the sun protection system in the longitudinal slat direction. If the position of the sun is such that the sun shines on the sun protection system within this 90 degree angle, the screen whose orientation relative to the sun protection system will correspond to the

BE2019 / 5460

-22BE2019 / 5460 direction of the sun relative to the sun protection system and / or roll it up in a transverse direction and according to the steps described below that are selected on the basis of data collected by the environmental sensors. If the sun shines on the awning system above a plane in the transverse direction, the plane extending in the longitudinal housing direction and being defined by the awning system in the longitudinal housing direction, then the screen whose orientation relative to the awning system corresponds to the direction rolling and / or rolling up from the sun relative to the sun protection system in a transverse direction and according to the steps described below selected on the basis of data collected by the ambient sensors. Each screen further comprises one or more obstacle detectors configured to detect whether there is an obstacle under a screen when the screen is instructed to roll in the transverse direction. In this way the obstacle detectors prevent the screens from rolling further in the transverse direction when obstacles are detected under the screens, so that accidents and damage to the screens and the sun protection system are prevented. The screens are configured by the position optimization unit to roll off and / or roll in the transverse direction for a predefined time.

According to an optional aspect of the invention, the sun protection system further comprises a heating system arranged under the plurality of slats and / or a cooling system arranged under the plurality of slats.

[56] In this way the sun protection system creates a pleasant and pleasant environment in the underlying space under the sun protection system. The heating system can for example be a radiator. The cooling system can for example be an air conditioning system. The heating system is switched on when the outside temperature is lower than a predefined outside temperature threshold value and when the presence detector detects presence in the underlying space and when the light detector does not detect sunlight on the plurality of slats.

[57] When the weather is cold and sunny, the screens BE2019 / 5460 are preferably rolled up in the transverse direction so that sunlight can reach the underlying space.

In that case it is not necessary to switch on the heating system, even if the outside temperature can be lower than a predefined threshold value for outside temperature. If a person located in the underlying space under the sun protection system wants it warmer, this person can unroll one or more screens along the transverse direction and switch on the heating system of the sun protection system. The heating system of the sunblind system may optionally include a tell-tale that is configured to indicate whether the heating system is on - when the tell-tale is on - or off - when the tell-tale is off - or vice versa. Alternatively, a user of the sunshade system also has the option of configuring the sunshade system so that the heating system is not taken into account when configuring the rotation of the plurality of slats.

[58] In this way, the predetermined set of rules applied by the position optimization unit is as follows:

Situation 9:

does the presence detector detect presence in the underlying space?

if yes:

then: does the light detector detect sunlight?

if yes:

does the temperature sensor measure an outside temperature that is higher than an outside temperature threshold?

if yes:

the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined optimized position and the heating system is switched off and the screens roll in the transverse direction depending on the position of the sun relative to the sun protection system:

height of the sun relative percentage of unrolling from

-24BE2019 / 5460

of the sun protection system in the transverse direction (in degrees) the screens <30 100% 30-45 66% 45-60 33% > 60 0, i.e. the screens are fully rolled up in the transverse direction.

Situation 10:

does the presence detector detect presence in the underlying space? if yes:

then: does the light detector detect sunlight?

if yes:

does the temperature sensor measure an outside temperature that is lower than or equal to an outside temperature threshold?

if yes:

the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined optimized position and the heating system is switched off and the screens are fully rolled up in the transverse direction.

Situation 11:

does the presence detector detect presence in the underlying space? if yes:

then: does the light detector detect sunlight?

if no:

does the temperature sensor measure an outside temperature that is higher than an outside temperature threshold?

if yes:

the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined optimized position in which the slats are rotated so that they are vertical, i.e. they are at an angle of

-2590 degrees are positioned relative to the closed BE2019 / 5460 position and the heating system is switched off and the screens are fully rolled up in the transverse direction.

Situation 12:

does the presence detector detect presence in the underlying space?

if yes:

then: does the light detector detect sunlight?

if no:

does the temperature sensor measure an outside temperature that is lower than or equal to an outside temperature threshold?

if yes:

the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined optimized position in which the slats are rotated so that they are horizontal, i.e., they are in the closed position and the heating system is on and the screens are fully unrolled or extended in the transverse direction.

Situation 13:

does the presence detector detect presence in the underlying space?

if no:

then: does the light detector detect sunlight?

if yes:

does the temperature sensor measure an outside temperature that is higher than an outside temperature threshold?

if yes:

the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined optimized position and the heating system is switched off and the screens roll in the transverse direction depending on the position of the sun relative to the sun protection system:

-26BE2019 / 5460

height of the sun in relation to the sun protection system in the transverse direction (in degrees) percentage of unrolling the screens 0-15 100% 15-30 66% 30-45 33% > 45 0, i.e. the screens are fully rolled up in the transverse direction.

Situation 14:

does the presence detector detect presence in the underlying space? if no:

then: does the light detector detect sunlight?

if yes:

does the temperature sensor measure an outside temperature that is lower than or equal to an outside temperature threshold?

if yes:

the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined optimized position.

Situation 15:

does the presence detector detect presence in the underlying space? if no:

then: does the light detector detect sunlight?

if no:

does the temperature sensor measure an outside temperature that is higher than an outside temperature threshold?

if yes:

the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined optimized position in which the slats are rotated so that they are vertical, i.e. they are positioned at an angle of 90 degrees to the closed position

-27and the heating system is switched off BE2019 / 5460 and the screens are fully rolled up in the transverse direction.

Situation 16:

does the presence detector detect presence in the underlying space?

if no:

then: does the light detector detect sunlight?

if no:

does the temperature sensor measure an outside temperature that is lower than or equal to an outside temperature threshold?

if yes:

the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined optimized position in which the slats are rotated so that they are vertical, that is, they are positioned at an angle to the closed position and the heating system is switched off and the screens are fully rolled up in the transverse direction.

[59] In addition, the predetermined set of rules applied by the position optimization unit is as follows:

when the outside temperature is lower than the threshold value for outside temperature -4 degrees the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined one optimized position that one allow maximum sunlight into the underlying space when the outside temperature is between the threshold value for outside temperature 4 degrees and the threshold value for outside temperature the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined one optimized position that allows 66% of the sunlight into the underlying space when the outside temperature is between the outside temperature threshold value + the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined one

-28BE2019 / 5460

1 degree and the threshold value for outside temperature is + 4 degrees optimized position that allows 33% of the sunlight into the underlying space when the outside temperature is higher than the threshold value for outside temperature + 4 degrees the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined one optimized position that one creates maximum shadow in the underlying space.

[60] For example, when the outside temperature threshold value is set to a minimum value, e.g., 17 degrees, the predetermined set of rules applied by the position optimization unit is as follows:

when the outside temperature is lower than 13 degrees the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined one optimized position that one allow maximum sunlight into the underlying space when the outside temperature is between 13 degrees and 16 degrees the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined one optimized position that allows 66% of the sunlight into the underlying space when the outside temperature is between 17 degrees and 20 degrees the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined one optimized position that allows 33% of the sunlight into the underlying space when the outside temperature is higher than 20 degrees the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined one optimized position that one creates maximum shadow in the underlying space.

[61] When the outside temperature threshold value is set, for example, BE2019 / 5460 to a minimum value, for example 27 degrees, the predetermined set of rules applied by the position optimization unit is as follows:

when the outside temperature is lower than 23 degrees the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined one optimized position that one allow maximum sunlight into the underlying space when the outside temperature is between 23 degrees and 27 degrees the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined one optimized position that allows 66% of the sunlight into the underlying space when the outside temperature is between 28 degrees and 31 degrees the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined one optimized position that allows 33% of the sunlight into the underlying space when the outside temperature is higher than 31 degrees the position optimization unit identifies a predetermined one optimized position that one creates maximum shadow in the underlying space.

[62] According to an optional aspect of the invention, the slats are configured to control light exposure in an indoor environment adjacent to the sunshade system by moving between the closed position and at least one of the predetermined positions.

[63] In this way, the awning system according to the present invention is an adaptive awning system that creates and manages an indoor climate in an indoor environment adjacent to the awning system, for example, a room comprising a window and / or door in a wall adjacent to the awning system. The sun protection system according to the present invention comprises a plurality of

-30BE2019 / 5460 slats that are automatically moved to optimized positions for the people in the indoor environment and / or for the sun protection system itself and for the weather conditions detected by the ambient sensors. In other words, the slats according to the present invention are always in an ideal position to control the light exposure in the indoor environment depending on the weather conditions and the requirements of people in the indoor environment, ie they are continuously moved at an angle so that their position is always ideal for people in the indoor environment and / or for the sun protection system itself in view of the detected weather conditions. The use of the multitude of ambient sensors enables the sun protection system to continuously monitor weather conditions during the day and night and to continuously autonomously adjust the position of the slats to an optimized position for the identified weather conditions and for a possible person who is in the indoor environment. For example, an optimized position for a person who is in the indoor environment is a position of the slats that offers the best comfort for the person who is in the indoor environment in terms of light intensity, temperature, ventilation, heat, etc. An optimized position for the sun protection system itself is, for example, a position of the slats that protects the integrity of the sun protection system, for example during a storm. The awning system according to the present invention is not based on the knowledge of the persons present in the indoor environment to determine when it is desirable to adjust the slats and to act accordingly. For example, the slats are automatically and immediately moved to the closed position when it starts to rain. Even without the intervention of a person located in the underlying space, the underlying space and the indoor environment will not get wet, which greatly improves the comfort of the people in the underlying space.

[64] The sun protection system according to the present invention responds to weather conditions such as one or more of wind, rain, sunlight, presence of a person or person in the underlying space, temperature, and the sun protection system also takes into account a

-31 BE2019 / 5460 geographical location and / or local time when it responds to weather conditions. The slats according to the present invention can automatically rotate to specific angles of a predetermined optimized position depending on one or more weather conditions that are autonomously detected by the sun protection system. In other words, the multitude of environmental sensors enables the sun protection system to automatically detect one or more weather conditions and to be autonomously adaptive to take into account one or more weather conditions when determining a predetermined optimized position for the slats. In this way the sun protection system protects the indoor environment in an efficient and reliable way. The sun protection system according to the present invention thereby improves the comfort of persons who are in the indoor environment. The ambient sensors can continuously monitor one or more of the geographic location, local time, presence, sunlight, outside temperature, wind speed, rain and the position optimization unit can continuously follow a predetermined optimized position for the multitude of slats. identify. Alternatively, the ambient sensors regularly identify one or more of the geographic location, local time, presence, sunlight, outdoor temperature, wind speed, and rain, and the position optimization unit can regularly identify a predetermined optimized position for the plurality of slats. . For example, the ambient sensors periodically identify one or more of the geographic location, the local time, the presence, the sunlight, the outside temperature, the wind speed, the rain and the position optimization unit can periodically determine a predetermined optimized position for the plurality of slats. identify. Alternatively, the position optimization unit only identifies a predetermined optimized position for the plurality of slats when one or more of the environmental sensors detect changes in one or more of the geographic location, the local time, the presence, the sunlight, the outside temperature , the wind speed, the rain.

According to a second aspect of the invention, a method is provided for covering an underlying space, the method comprising the following steps:

- providing a plurality of slats arranged in an initial BE2019 / 5460 position, the slats being adapted to be movable between a plurality of predetermined positions;

- determining a geographical location;

- determining a local time at the geographical location;

- measuring a wind speed on the plurality of slats;

- detecting rain on the plurality of slats;

- detecting presence in the underlying space;

- detecting sunlight on the plurality of slats;

- measuring an outside temperature;

- identifying a predetermined optimized position for the plurality of slats by applying a predetermined set of rules to one or more of the geographical location, the local time, the presence, the sunlight, the outside temperature, the wind speed, the rain; and

- moving the slats from the initial position to the predetermined optimized position.

The method according to the present invention comprises providing a plurality of slats that are automatically moved to optimized positions for the persons in the underlying space and / or for the sun protection system itself and for the weather conditions that are detected by the ambient sensors. detected. In other words, the slats according to the present invention are always in an ideal position, ie they are continuously moved at an angle so that their position is always ideal for people who are in the underlying space and / or for the sun protection system itself with the view of the detected weather conditions. The method makes it possible to continuously monitor weather conditions during the day and night and to continuously autonomously adjust the position of the slats to an optimized position for the identified weather conditions and for a possible person in the underlying space . For example, an optimized position for a person located in the underlying space is a position of the slats that offers the best comfort for the person located in the underlying space in terms of brightness, temperature, ventilation, heat, etc. An optimized position position for the sun protection system itself

-33BE2019 / 5460 for example a position of the slats that protects the integrity of the sun protection system, for example during a storm. The method according to the present invention is not based on the knowledge of the people who are in the underlying space to determine when it is desirable to adjust the slats and to act accordingly. For example, the slats are automatically and immediately moved to the closed position when it starts to rain. Even without the intervention of a person located in the underlying space, the underlying space will not get wet, which significantly improves the comfort of the people located in the underlying space.

[67] The method of the present invention responds to weather conditions such as one or more of wind, rain, sunlight, presence of a person or someone in the underlying space, temperature, and the method also takes into account a geographic location and / or local time when it responds to weather conditions. The slats can automatically rotate to specific angles of a predetermined optimized position depending on one or more weather conditions that are detected autonomously. In other words, the method makes it possible to automatically detect one or more weather conditions and to be autonomously adaptive to take into account one or more weather conditions when determining a predetermined optimized position for the slats. In this way the method protects the underlying space in an efficient and reliable manner. The method according to the present invention thereby improves the comfort of persons in the underlying space. The method can continuously follow one or more of the geographic location, local time, presence, sunlight, outside temperature, wind speed, rain and the position optimization unit can continuously identify a predetermined optimized position for the plurality of slats. Alternatively, the method regularly identifies one or more of the geographic location, the local time, the presence, the sunlight, the outside temperature, the wind speed, the rain, and the position optimization unit can regularly adjust a predetermined optimized position for the multitude. identify slats. With the method according to the present invention, for example, one or more of

-The geographical location, the local time, the presence, the sunlight, the BE2019 / 5460 outside temperature, the wind speed, the rain are identified and a predetermined optimized position for the multitude of slats can be identified periodically. Alternatively, the method only identifies a predetermined optimized position for the plurality of slats when one or more of the ambient sensors detect changes in one or more of the geographic location, local time, presence, sunlight, outside temperature, wind speed, the rain.

[68] According to an optional aspect of the invention, applying the predetermined set of rules to one or more of the geographic location, the local time, the presence, the sunlight, the outside temperature, the wind speed, the rain corresponds to :

- determining the initial position of the slats;

- receiving the geographical location;

- receiving the local time;

- receiving the wind speed;

- determining whether rain is detected on the plurality of slats;

- determining whether presence is detected in the underlying space;

- determining whether sunlight is detected on the plurality of slats;

- receiving the outside temperature; and

- comparing the outside temperature with a threshold value for outside temperature.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a sunshade system according to the present invention.

Figures 2A to 2D are schematic side views of an embodiment of a sunshade system according to the present invention, wherein the slats are respectively in a closed position in Figs. 2A, one

Minimum open position in FIG. 2B, a vertical position in FIG. 2C, and a maximum BE2019 / 5460 open position in FIG. 2D.

Figures 3A and 3B are schematic representations of a side view and a top view, respectively, of the sun protection system according to the present invention and of sunlight falling on the sun protection system.

Figures 4A and 4B are schematic representations of a sunshade system according to the present invention comprising a screen and a heating system.

FIG. 5 is a schematic representation of a sunshade system according to the present invention for controlling a light exposure in an indoor environment adjacent to the sunshade system.

Detailed description of the embodiment (s) [74] According to an embodiment shown in FIG. 1, a sunshade system 1 according to the present invention comprises a plurality of slats 100, a plurality of environmental sensors 101, a unit for position optimization 102 and operating means 103. The plurality of slats 100 are arranged in an initial position 10 and the slats 100 are movable between a plurality of predetermined positions 20. The plurality of slats 100 are arranged, for example, in a closed position 22, wherein the slats 100 are partially superposed, each slat over the next, so as to cover the underlying space. The plurality of slats 100 are arranged, for example, in a vertical position 23. The plurality of slats 100 are arranged, for example, in a minimum open position 26. The plurality of slats 100 are arranged, for example, in a maximum open position 25. The plurality of ambient sensors 101 comprises a unit for location determination 111, a unit for local timing 112, a unit for wind speed measurement 116, a unit for moisture detection 118, a presence detector 113, a light detector 114, a temperature sensor 115 and a unit for orientation determination 119. The unit for location determination 111

-36BE2019 / 5460 determines a geographic location 11 of the sunblind system 1. The local time unit 112 determines a local time 12 at the geographic location 11. The wind speed measurement unit 116 detects whether wind is blowing on the plurality of blades 100 and, if there is wind, measures the speed of wind 16. The moisture detection unit 118 detects rain 18 on the slats 100. The presence detector 113 detects presence 13 in the underlying space

2. The light detector 114 detects sunlight 14 on the slats 100. The temperature sensor 115 measures an outside temperature 15. The position optimization unit 102 receives one or more of the geographic location 11, the local time 12, the wind speed 16, the rain 18, the presence 13, the sunlight 14, the outside temperature 15. The position optimization unit 102 applies a predetermined set of rules 3 to one or more of the geographical location 11, the local time 12, the wind speed 16, the rain 18, the presence 13, the sunlight 14, the outside temperature 15. The position optimization unit 102 identifies a predetermined optimized position 21 for the plurality of slats 100 by applying this predetermined set of rules 3. The predetermined set of rules 3 comprises: determining the initial position 10 of the slats 100, receiving the geographic location 11 of the location determination unit 111, receiving the local time 12 of the local time determination unit 112, receiving the wind speed 16 from the wind speed measurement unit 116, determining whether the moisture detection unit 118 detects rain 18 on the plurality of slats 100, determining whether the presence detector 113 detects presence 13 in the underlying space, determining whether the light detector 114 detects sunlight 14 on the plurality of slats 100, receives the outside temperature 15 from the temperature sensor 115, and compares the outside temperature 15 with a threshold value for outside temperature 17. The position optimization unit 102 sends this predetermined optimized position 21 to the operating means. When the predetermined optimized position 21 for the slats 100 corresponds to the initial position 10 of the slats 100, the operating means 103 does not move the slats 100. When the predetermined optimized position 21 for the slats 100 differs from the initial position 10 of the slats 100, the operating means 103 move the slats 100 from the initial position 10 to the predetermined optimized position 21. The plurality of ambient sensors 101 and / or the unit for position optimization

-37BE2019 / 5460

102 and / or the operating means 103 can be integrated in a housing of the sun protection system. The position optimization unit 102 regularly identifies a predetermined optimized position 21 for the plurality of slats 100. For example, the position optimization unit 102 periodically identifies a predetermined optimized position 21 for the plurality of slats 100, for example, once per hour or once every two hours, or once every half day, or once a day. According to an alternative embodiment, the position optimization unit 102 identifies a predetermined optimized position 21 for the plurality of slats 100 several times a day. The position optimization unit 102 typically regularly identifies a predetermined optimized position 21 for the plurality of slats 100 when the presence detector 113 detects presence 13 in the underlying space 2 and the light detector 114 detects sunlight 14 on the plurality of slats 100 and the outside temperature 15 is higher than the threshold value for outside temperature 17. The position optimization unit 102 specifically identifies regularly a predetermined optimized position 21 for the plurality of slats 100 when the presence detector 113 detects presence 13 in the underlying space 2 and the light detector 114 detects sunlight 14 on the plurality of slats 100 and the outside temperature 15 is lower than or equal to in particular to the threshold value for outside temperature 17. The position-optimization unit 102 in particular regularly identifies a predetermined optimized position 21 for the plurality of slats 100 when the presence detector 113 detects no presence 13 in the underlying space 2 and the light detector 114 detects sunlight 14 on the plurality of slats 100 and the outside temperature 15 is higher than the threshold value for outside temperature 17. The position optimization unit 102 notably regularly identifies a predetermined optimized position 21 for the plurality of slats 100 when the presence detector 113 detects no presence 13 in the underlying space 2 and the light detector 114 detects sunlight 14 on the plurality of slats 100 and the outside temperature 15 is lower than or equal to the threshold value for outside temperature 17. Optionally, the sun protection system 1 according to the present invention further comprises one or more screens and / or a heating system as described in Figures 4A and 4B and / or a cooling system.

According to a side view of an embodiment shown in FIG. 2A, BE2019 / 5460 comprises a sun protection system 1 for covering an underlying space 2 according to the present invention, a plurality of slats 100, a plurality of ambient sensors 101, a position optimization unit 102 and operating means 103. Components with identical reference numbers as in FIG. .

have the same function. The sunblind system 1 comprises a housing 104. The housing 104 extends in a longitudinal housing direction 4. The housing 104 comprises the plurality of ambient sensors 101, the position optimization unit 102 and the operating means 103. The housing 104 is continuous and rectangular and the housing 104 includes two pairs of opposite sides 53; 54; 55; 56 so that the housing 104 of the pair of opposite sides 55; 56 extends in a longitudinal housing direction 4 and so that the housing 104 of the other pair of opposite sides 53; 54 extends in a longitudinal slat direction 5 extends transversely to the longitudinal housing direction 4. The slats 100 are arranged one after the other in the longitudinal housing direction 4, wherein each of the slats 100 extends in the longitudinal slat direction 5, transversely to the longitudinal housing direction 4. The slats 100 are movable between a closed position 22 with the slats 100 partially superimposed are, each slat over the next, so as to cover the underlying space 2, extending in the longitudinal housing direction 4, and at least one of the predetermined positions. The sun protection system 1 further comprises two legs 57. Only one of these legs 57 is visible in FIG. 2 because of the perspective. The sun protection system 1 is, for example, mounted against a facade of a building on the side 54 of the housing 104 so as to cover an underlying space 2 close to the building. According to an alternative embodiment, the sun protection system 1 comprises one leg 57 and the housing 104 is mounted against a facade of a building, for example on sides 56 and 54 or on sides 56 and 53 or on sides 54 and 55 or on sides 55 and 53. According to a further alternative embodiment, the sun protection system 1 comprises four legs 57, for example when the housing 104 is not mounted against a facade of a building. According to further alternative embodiments, the sun protection system 1 comprises more than four legs 57. This increases the stability of the sun protection system 1. The sun protection system 1 optionally comprises a rain gutter extending along the housing 104 and arranged under the plurality of slats 100. According to an alternative embodiment

-39BE2019 / 5460 the sun protection system 1 has a rain gutter on all sides 53; 54; 55; 56. The sun protection system 1 preferably measures, for example, 6 meters in the longitudinal housing direction 4 and 4 meters in the longitudinal slat direction 5 and is 2.5 meters high with respect to the ground in the underlying space 2 in the transverse direction 6 transversely of the longitudinal housing direction 4 and transversely to the longitudinal slat direction 5. According to alternative embodiments, the sunshade system 1 measures several meters in the longitudinal housing direction 4 and several meters in the longitudinal slat direction 5 and is several meters high in the transverse direction 6, the length of the housing 104 of the awning system 1 in the longitudinal housing direction 4 is greater than the length of the housing 104 of the awning system 1 in the longitudinal slat direction 5. The predetermined optimized position corresponds to the closed position 22 of the slats 100 when the presence detector detects presence in the underlying room 2 and the light detector does not detect sunlight on the plurality of slats 100 and the outside temperature is lower than or equal to the outside temperature threshold. When the moisture detection unit detects rain on the plurality of slats 100, the predetermined optimized position for the plurality of slats 100 is the closed position 22. The predetermined optimized position for the plurality of slats 100 when the outside temperature is lower than a freezing temperature 150 corresponds to the minimum open position 26 as shown in FIG. 2B.

[76] According to side views of an embodiment shown in Figs. 2A to 2D, an awning system 1 for covering an underlying space 2 according to the present invention comprises a plurality of slats 100, a plurality of environmental sensors 101, a position optimization unit 102 and operating means 103. Components with identical reference numbers as in FIG. 1 or FIG. 2A have the same function. The sunblind system 1 comprises a housing 104. The housing 104 extends in a longitudinal housing direction 4. The housing 104 comprises the plurality of ambient sensors 101, the position optimization unit 102 and the operating means 103. The housing 104 is continuous and rectangular and the housing 104 comprises two pairs of opposite sides 53; 54; 55; 56 so that the housing 104 of the pair of opposite sides 55; 56 extends in a longitudinal housing direction 4 and so that the housing 104 of the

-40BE2019 / 5460 other pair of opposite sides 53; 54 extending in a longitudinal slat direction 5, transverse to the longitudinal housing direction 4. The slats 100 are arranged one after one in the longitudinal housing direction 4, each of the slats 100 extending in the longitudinal slat direction 5, transverse to the longitudinal housing direction 4. The slats 100 are movable between a closed position 22, the slats 100 being partially superposed, each slat over the next, so as to cover the underlying space 2, and at least one from the predetermined positions, wherein each slat has a distance to the next through an opening 117 formed between a slat 100 and the next slat 100 in the longitudinal housing direction 4. The sunblind system 1 further comprises two legs 57. Only one of these legs 57 is visible in FIG. 2 because of the perspective. The sun protection system 1 is, for example, mounted against a facade of a building on the side 54 of the housing 104 so as to cover an underlying space 2 close to the building. According to an alternative embodiment, the sun protection system 1 comprises one leg 55 and the housing 104 is mounted against a facade of a building, for example on sides 56 and 54 or on sides 56 and 53 or on sides 54 and 55 or on sides 55 and 53. According to a further alternative embodiment, the sun protection system 1 comprises four legs 57, for example when the housing 104 is not mounted against a facade of a building. According to further alternative embodiments, the sun protection system 1 comprises more than four legs 57. This increases the stability of the sun protection system 1. The sun protection system 1 optionally comprises a rain gutter extending along the housing 104 and arranged under the plurality of slats 100. According to an alternative In an embodiment, the sun protection system 1 comprises a rain gutter on all sides 53; 54; 55; 56. The sun protection system 1 preferably measures, for example, 6 meters in the longitudinal housing direction 4 and 4 meters in the longitudinal slat direction 5 and is 2.5 meters high with respect to the ground in the underlying space 2 in the transverse direction 6 transversely of the longitudinal housing direction 4 and transversely to the longitudinal slat direction 5. According to alternative embodiments, the sunshade system 1 measures several meters in the longitudinal housing direction 4 and several meters in the longitudinal slat direction 5 and is several meters high in the transverse direction 6, the length of the housing 104 of the sun protection system 1 in the longitudinal housing direction 4 is greater than the length of the housing 104 of the sun protection system 1 in the longitudinal slat direction

-41 BE2019 / 5460

5. When the wind comes from the south, the initial position of the slats 100 corresponds to the closed position 22 and the operating means 103 gradually increase the openings 117 between the slats 100 so that the slats 100 move into the vertical position 23 at noon as shown in FIG. 2C and so that the openings 117 are maximum at sunset. When the wind comes from the north, the initial position corresponds to a position in which the openings 117 are maximum and the operating means 103 gradually reduce the openings 117 so that the slats 100 are in the vertical position 23 at noon as shown in FIG. 2C and so that the slats 100 are in the closed position 22 at sunset. When the wind comes from the east, the initial position corresponds to the vertical position 23 and the operating means 103 gradually increase the openings 117 to a maximum open position 25 as shown in FIG. 2D and the operating means 103 gradually reduce the apertures 117 to sunset. When the wind 16 comes from the west, the initial position corresponds to the vertical position 23 and the operating means 103 gradually reduce the apertures 117 to a minimum open position 26 as shown in FIG. 2B and the operating means 103 gradually enlarge the openings 117 to sunset. The predetermined optimized position for the plurality of slats 100 when the outside temperature is lower than a freezing temperature corresponds to the minimum open position 26 as shown in FIG. 2B. FIG. 2C, the predetermined optimized position corresponds to the vertical position 23 of the slats 100 with the slats 100 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 4 when the presence detector detects presence in the underlying space 2 and the light detector does not detect sunlight on the plurality of slats 100 and the outside temperature is higher than the threshold value for outside temperature. The predetermined optimized position corresponds to the vertical position 23 of the slats 100 with the slats 100 transverse to the longitudinal direction 4, as shown in FIG. 2C, when the presence detector does not detect presence in the underlying space 2 and the light detector does not detect sunlight on the plurality of slats 100 and the outside temperature is higher than the outside temperature threshold. The predetermined optimized position corresponds to the vertical position 23 of the slats 100 with the slats 100 transverse to the longitudinal direction 4, as shown in FIG. 2C, when the presence detector is no

42 presence in the underlying space 2 and the light detector does not detect sunlight on the plurality of slats 100 and the outside temperature is lower than or equal to the outside temperature threshold.

According to a side view of an embodiment shown in FIG. 3A, a sunshade system 1 for covering an underlying space 2 according to the present invention comprises a housing 104 extending in a longitudinal housing direction 4. Components with identical reference numbers as in Figs. 1 or FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D have the same function. The housing 104 is continuous and rectangular and the housing 104 comprises two pairs of opposite sides 53; 54; 55 so that the housing 104 of the pair of opposite sides extends in a longitudinal housing direction 4 and so that the housing 104 of the other pair of opposite sides 53; 54 extends in a longitudinal slat direction 5, transversely of the longitudinal housing direction 4. The sun exposure is monitored by the sun protection system 1. In particular, a position of the sun relative to the sun protection system 1 is monitored. For example, an angle 201; 202; 203 is formed between the sun and the sun protection system 1 monitored by sun protection system 1. More specifically, an angle 201; 202; 203 is formed which is formed between the sun and a plane in the transverse direction 6, the plane being extends in the longitudinal housing direction 4 and is defined by the sunblind system 1 in the longitudinal housing direction 4.

According to a plan view of an embodiment shown in FIG. 3B, an awning system 1 for covering an underlying space according to the present invention comprises a housing 104 extending in a longitudinal housing direction 4. Components with identical reference numbers as in Figs. 1 or FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D or FIG. 3A have the same function. The housing 104 is continuous and rectangular and the housing 104 comprises two pairs of opposite sides 53; 54; 55; 56 so that the housing 104 of the pair of opposite sides 55; 56 extends in a longitudinal housing direction 4 and so that the housing 104 of the other pair of opposite sides 53; 54 extending in a longitudinal slat direction 5, transversely of the longitudinal housing direction 4. The sunlight exposure is monitored by the sunblind system 1. In particular, a position of the sun relative to

BE2019 / 5460

-43 the sun protection system 1 monitored. For example, the sun protection system 1 monitors an angle 204; 205 formed between the sun and the longitudinal housing direction 4 extending from the center of the sun protection system 1 in the longitudinal slat direction 5.

According to an embodiment shown in FIG. 4A, an awning system 1 for covering an underlying space according to the present invention comprises a housing 104 extending in a longitudinal housing direction 4. Components with identical reference numbers as in Figs. 1 or FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D or FIG. 3A to 3B have the same function. The housing 104 is continuous and rectangular and the housing 104 comprises two pairs of opposite sides 53; 54; 55; 56 so that the housing 104 of the pair of opposite sides 55; 56 extends in a longitudinal housing direction 4 and so that the housing 104 of the other pair of opposite sides 53; 54 extending in a longitudinal slat direction 5, transversely of the longitudinal housing direction 4. The sunshade system 1 according to the present invention comprises a plurality of slats 100, a plurality of environmental sensors 101, a unit for position optimization 102 and operating means 103. The plurality of slats 100 are arranged in an initial position and the slats 100 are movable between a plurality of predetermined positions. The plurality of slats 100 are arranged, for example, in a closed position 22, with the slats 100 partially superposed, each slat over the next, so as to cover the underlying space. The sunshade system 1 further comprises one or more screens 206 extending in the longitudinal housing direction 4 and / or the longitudinal slat direction 5, each of said screens 206 being adapted to move between a rolled up position where the screen is rolled up in the housing 104 of the sunblind system 1 and a rolled-down position wherein the screen extends in the transverse direction 6. Each screen 206 comprises, for example, a slat 209 which is guided in integrated rails 208 defined in each leg 57 of a pair of opposite sides 53; 54; 55 56 of the housing 104 of the sunblind system 1 and in the transverse direction 6. The screen 206 is adapted to roll out in the transverse direction 6 when the rails 208 guide the slat 209 of the screen 206 up and down in the transverse direction 6. The lath 209 may optionally include an obstacle detector configured to detect whether or not one

BE2019 / 5460

-44BE2019 / 5460 obstacle is located below the screen 206 in the transverse direction 6 so as to prevent the screen 206 from colliding with the obstacle. The sun protection system 1 further optionally comprises a heating system and / or cooling system 207 which is arranged under the plurality of slats 100. The heating system and / or cooling system 207 is for instance detachably attached to the housing 104 of the sun protection system 1, on the side 53 of the sun protection system 1.

According to an embodiment shown in the cross-section of FIG. 4B, a sunshade system 1 for covering an underlying space according to the present invention comprises a housing 104 extending in a longitudinal housing direction 4. Components with identical reference numbers as in Figs. 1 or FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D or FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B or FIG. 4A have the same function. The housing 104 is continuous and rectangular and the housing 104 comprises two pairs of opposite sides 53; 54; 55; 56 so that the housing 104 of the pair of opposite sides 55; 56 extends in a longitudinal housing direction 4 and so that the housing 104 of the other pair of opposite sides 53; 54 extending in a longitudinal slat direction 5, transversely of the longitudinal housing direction 4. The sunshade system 1 according to the present invention comprises a plurality of slats 100, a plurality of environmental sensors 101, a unit for position optimization 102 and operating means 103. The plurality of slats 100 are arranged in an initial position and the slats 100 are movable between a plurality of predetermined positions. The plurality of slats 100 are arranged, for example, in a closed position 22, with the slats 100 partially superposed, each slat over the next, so as to cover the underlying space. The sunshade system 1 further comprises one or more screens 206 extending in the longitudinal housing direction 4 and / or the longitudinal slat direction 5, each of said screens 206 being adapted to move between a rolled up position where the screen is rolled up in the housing 104 of the sunblind system 1 and a rolled-down position wherein the screen extends in the transverse direction 6. Each screen 206 comprises, for example, a slat 209 which is guided in integrated rails 208 defined in each leg 57 of a pair of opposite sides 53; 54; 55 56 of the housing 104 of the sunblind system 1 and in the transverse direction 6. The screen 206 is adapted to roll out in the transverse direction 6 when the rails 208 the bar 209 of the screen 206

-45BE2019 / 5460 guide up and down in the transverse direction 6. The slat 209 may optionally include an obstacle detector configured to detect whether an obstacle is below the screen 206 in the transverse direction 6 so as to prevent the screen 206 from colliding with the obstacle. The housing 104 of the sun protection system 1 further comprises a roller tube 210 around which the screen 206 - which is made of a flexible material - can be rolled in a rolled-up position, so as to be invisible from the outside when fully rolled into the housing 104. With in other words, a fully rolled up screen 206 fits into the housing 104 of the sun protection system 1 on the side 53 of the sun protection system 1. The sun protection system 1 further optionally comprises a heating system and / or cooling system 207 which is arranged under the plurality of slats 100. The heating system and / or cooling system 207 is, for example in a releasable manner, attached to the housing 104 of the sun protection system 1, on the side 53 of the sun protection system 1. According to an alternative embodiment, the heating system and / or cooling system 207 is for example in a releasable manner attached to the housing 104 of the sun protection system 1, to one or more of the sides 53; 54; 55; 56 v of the sun protection system 1.

According to a side view of an embodiment shown in FIG. 5, a sunshade system 1 for covering an underlying space 2 according to the present invention comprises a housing 104 extending in a longitudinal housing direction 4. Components with identical reference numbers as in Figs. 1 or FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D or FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B or Figs. 3A or 3B have the same function. The housing 104 is continuous and rectangular and the housing 104 comprises two pairs of opposite sides 53; 54; 55 so that the housing 104 of the pair of opposite sides extends in a longitudinal housing direction 4 and so that the housing 104 of the other pair of opposite sides 53; 54 extends in a longitudinal slat direction 5, transversely of the longitudinal housing direction 4. The sun exposure is monitored by the sun protection system 1. In particular, a position of the sun relative to the sun protection system 1 is monitored. For example, an angle 201; 202; 203 is formed between the sun and the sun protection system 1 monitored by sun protection system 1. More specifically, an angle 201; 202; 203 is formed which is formed between the sun and a plane in the transverse direction 6, the plane being

-46BE2019 / 5460 extends in the longitudinal housing direction 4 and is defined by the sun protection system 1 in the longitudinal housing direction 4. The sun protection system 1 is used to control a light exposure in an indoor environment 7 adjacent to the sun protection system 1 by moving between the closed position and at least one of the predetermined positions. In this way, the sun protection system 1 is an adaptive sun protection system that creates and manages an indoor climate in an indoor environment 7 that is adjacent to the sun protection system, for example a room 7 that comprises a window and / or door in a wall adjacent to the sun protection system 1. The sun protection system 1 comprises a plurality of slats that are automatically moved to optimized positions for the persons in the indoor environment 7 and / or for the sun protection system 1 itself and for the weather conditions detected by the ambient sensors. In other words, the slats are always in an ideal position to control the light exposure in the indoor environment 7 depending on the weather conditions and the requirements of people in the indoor environment 7, ie they are continuously moved at an angle so that their position is always ideal for people in the indoor environment 7 and / or for the sun protection system itself in view of the detected weather conditions. The use of the multitude of ambient sensors enables the sun protection system 1 to continuously monitor the weather conditions during the day and night and to continuously autonomously adjust the position of the slats to an optimized position for the identified weather conditions and for a possible person who is in the indoor environment 7. For example, an optimized position for a person who is in the indoor environment 7 is a position of the slats that offers the best comfort for the person who is in the indoor environment in terms of light intensity, temperature, ventilation, heat, etc. An optimized position for the sun protection system 1 itself is, for example, a position of the slats that protects the integrity of the sun protection system 1, for example during a storm. The sun protection system 1 does not rely on the knowledge of the persons present in the indoor environment 7 to determine when it is desirable to adjust the slats and to act accordingly. For example, the slats are automatically and immediately moved to the closed position when it starts to rain. Even without the intervention of one

The person located in the underlying space will not get the underlying space and the indoor environment 7 wet, which considerably improves the comfort of the people in the underlying space.

Although the present invention has been illustrated with 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 practiced with various modifications and modifications without leaving the scope of the invention. The present embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the invention being described by the appended claims and not by the foregoing description, and all modifications falling within the meaning and scope of the claims, are therefore included here. In other words, it is assumed that all changes, variations or equivalents are included that fall within the scope of the underlying basic principles and whose essential attributes are claimed in this patent application. In addition, the reader of this patent application will understand that the words comprising or including other elements or steps do not exclude, that the word excludes a plural, and that a single element, such as a computer system, a processor or other integrated unit, functions different can fulfill the aids mentioned in the claims. Any references in the claims should not be construed as limiting the claims in question. The terms first, second, third, a, b, c and the like, when used in the description or in the claims, are used to distinguish between similar elements or steps and do not necessarily describe a sequential or chronological order. Similarly, the terms top, bottom, over, under and the like are used for the purposes of the description and do not necessarily refer to relative positions. It is to be understood that those terms are interchangeable under proper conditions and that embodiments of the invention are capable of functioning in accordance with the present invention in sequences or orientations other than described or illustrated above.

Claims (18)

CONCLUSIONS BE2019 / 5460 A sun protection system (1) for covering an underlying space (2), said sun protection system (1) comprising the following: - a plurality of slats (100) arranged in an initial position (10), said slats (100) being adapted to be movable between a plurality of predetermined positions (20); - a plurality of environmental sensors (101), comprising: o a location determination unit (111) configured to determine a geographical location (11); a local time unit (112) configured to determine a local time (12) at said geographic location (11); o a wind speed measurement unit (116) configured to measure a wind speed (16) on said plurality of slats (100); a moisture detection unit (118) configured to detect rain (18) on said plurality of slats (100); o a presence detector (113) configured to detect presence (13) in said underlying space (2); o a light detector (114) configured to detect sunlight (14) on said plurality of slats (100); and o a temperature sensor (115) configured to measure an outside temperature (15); - a position optimization unit (102) operatively coupled to said ambient sensors (101), said position optimization unit (102) being configured to identify a predetermined optimized position (21) for said plurality of slats (100) by applying a predetermined set of rules (3) to one or more of said geographical location (11), said local time (12), said presence (13), said sunlight (14), said outside temperature (15), said wind speed (16), said rain (18); and - operating means (103) operatively coupled to said position optimization unit (102), said operating means (103) being configured to operate said slats (100) of said initial Move BE2019 / 5460 to said predetermined optimized position (21). A sunshade system (1) according to claim 1, wherein said position optimization unit (102) is configured to identify said predetermined optimized position (21) for said plurality of slats (100) by said predetermined set of rules ( 3) to be applied to one or more of said geographical location (11), said local time (12), said presence (13), said sunlight (14), said outside temperature (15), said wind speed (16), said rain (18), wherein said predetermined set of rules (3) comprises the following: - determining said initial position (10) of said slats (100); - receiving said geographic location (11) from said location determination unit (111); - receiving said local time (12) from said local time determination unit (112); - receiving said wind speed (16) from said wind speed measurement unit (116); - determining whether said moisture detection unit (118) detects rain (18) on said plurality of slats (100); - determining whether said presence detector (113) detects presence (13) in said underlying space (2); - determining whether said light detector (114) detects sunlight (14) on said plurality of slats (100); - receiving said outside temperature (15) from said temperature sensor (115); and - comparing said outside temperature (15) with a threshold value for outside temperature (17). A sunshade system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said sunshade system (1) further comprises a housing (104) extending in a longitudinal housing direction (4) and wherein said housing (104) one or more of the following includes: - said plurality of environmental sensors (101); - said position optimization unit (102); BE2019 / 5460 - said operating means (103). A sunshade system (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said plurality of slats (100) are arranged one behind the other in said longitudinal housing direction (4), wherein each of said slats (100) is in a longitudinal slat direction (5) extends transversely to said longitudinal housing direction (4); said slats (100) being movable between a closed position (22) in which said slats (100) are partially superimposed, each slat over the next so-called underlying space (2), and at least one of said predetermined positions (20), wherein each slat has a distance from the next through an opening (117) formed between a slat (100) and the next slat (100) in the longitudinal housing direction (4). A sunshade system (1) according to claim 4, wherein said predetermined optimized position (21) corresponds to a vertical position (23) of said slats (100) wherein said slats (100) are transverse to said longitudinal housing direction (4) when : - said presence detector (113) detects presence (13) in said underlying space (2) and the light detector (114) does not detect sunlight (14) on said plurality of slats (100) and said outside temperature (15) is higher than said threshold value for outside temperature (17); or - said presence detector (113) does not detect presence (13) in said underlying space (2) and said light detector (114) does not detect sunlight (14) on said plurality of slats (100) and said outside temperature (15) is higher than said threshold value for outside temperature (17); or - said presence detector (113) detects no presence (13) in said underlying space (2) and said light detector (114) does not detect sunlight (14) on said plurality of lamellae (100) and said outside temperature (15) is lower than or equal is at said threshold value for outside temperature (17). -51 BE2019 / 5460 A sunshade system (1) according to claim 4, wherein said predetermined optimized position (21) corresponds to the closed position (22) of said slats (100) wherein said slats (100) extend in said longitudinal housing direction (4) when said presence detector (113) detects presence (13) in said underlying space (2) and said light detector (114) does not detect sunlight (14) on said plurality of lamellae (100) and said outside temperature (15) is lower than or equal to the threshold value for outside temperature (17). A sunshade system (1) according to claim 4, wherein said position optimization unit (102) is further configured to regularly identify a predetermined optimized position (20) for said plurality of slats (100) when: - said presence detector (113) detects presence (13) in said underlying space (2) and the light detector (114) detects sunlight (14) on said plurality of slats (100) and said outside temperature (15) is higher than said outside temperature threshold (17); or - said presence detector (113) detects presence (13) in said underlying space (2) and said light detector (114) detects sunlight (14) on said plurality of slats (100) and said outside temperature (15) is lower than or equal to said threshold value for outside temperature (17); or - said presence detector (113) does not detect presence (13) in said underlying space (2) and said light detector (114) detects sunlight (14) on said plurality of slats (100) and said outside temperature (15) is higher than said threshold value for outside temperature (17); or - said presence detector (113) does not detect presence (13) in said underlying space (2) and said light detector (114) detects sunlight (14) on said plurality of slats (100) and said -52 outside temperature (15) is lower than or equal to said threshold value BE2019 / 5460 for outside temperature (17). A sunshade system (1) according to one or more of claims 4 to 7, wherein when the wind (16) comes from the south, said initial position (10) corresponds to said closed position (22) and said operating means (103) are further configured to gradually increase said apertures (117) so that said slats (100) are at noon in said vertical position (23) and so that said apertures (117) are maximal at sunset. A sunshade system (1) according to one or more of claims 4 to 7, wherein, when said wind (16) comes from the north, said initial position (10) corresponds to a position at which said openings (117) are maximized and said operating means (103) are further configured to gradually reduce said openings (117) so that said slats (100) are at noon in said vertical position (23) and so that said slats (100) are in said closed position ( 22) are at sunset. A sunshade system (1) according to one or more of claims 4 to 7, wherein, when said wind (16) comes from the east, said initial position (10) corresponds to said vertical position (23) and said operating means (103) are further configured to gradually increase said openings (117) to a maximum open position (25) and said operating means (103) are further configured to gradually reduce said openings (117) to sunset. A sunshade system (1) according to one or more of claims 4 to 7, wherein when the wind (16) comes from the west, said initial position (10) corresponds to the vertical position (23) and said operating means (103) are further configured to gradually reduce said openings (117) to a minimum open position (26) and said operating means (103) are further configured to gradually increase said openings (117) to sunset. -53BE2019 / 5460 A sunshade system (1) according to one or more of claims 4 to 11, wherein said sunshade system further comprises a moisture detection unit (118) configured to detect rain (18) on said plurality of slats (100) and wherein said predetermined optimized position (21) of said plurality of slats (100) is said closed position (22) when said moisture detection unit (118) detects rain (18). A sunshade system (1) according to claim 11, wherein said predetermined optimized position (21) for said plurality of slats (100) when said outside temperature (15) is lower than a freezing temperature (150) corresponds to said minimum open position (26) ). A sun protection system (1) according to one or more of claims 3 to 13, wherein said awning system (1) further comprises one or more screens (206) extending in said longitudinal housing direction (4) and / or said longitudinal slat direction (5), each of said screens (206) being adapted to move between a rolled-up position wherein said screen is rolled-up in said housing (104) of said sunblind system (1) and a rolled-out position wherein said screen extends in a transverse direction (6). A sun protection system (1) according to one or more of claims 3 to 13, wherein said sunblind system (1) further comprises a heating system (207) arranged under said plurality of slats (100) and / or a cooling system (207) arranged under said plurality of slats (100). A sunblind system (1) according to one or more of claims 3 to 13, wherein said slats (100) are configured to control light exposure in an indoor environment (7) adjacent to said awning system (1) by moving between said closed position (22) and at least one of said predetermined positions (20) ). A method of covering an underlying space (2), said method comprising the following steps: - providing a plurality of slats (100) arranged in an initial BE2019 / 5460 position (10), wherein said slats (100) are adapted to be movable between a plurality of predetermined positions (20); - determining a geographical location (11); - determining a local time (12) at said geographical location (11); - measuring a wind speed (16) on said plurality of slats (100); - detecting rain (18) on said plurality of slats (100); - detecting presence (13) in said underlying space (2); - detecting sunlight (14) on said plurality of slats (100); - measuring an outside temperature (15); - identifying a predetermined optimized position (21) for said plurality of slats (100) by applying a predetermined set of rules (3) to one or more of said geographical location (11), said local time (12) ), said presence (13), said sunlight (14), said outside temperature (15), said wind speed (16), said rain (18); and - moving said slats (100) from said initial position (10) to said predetermined optimized position (21). A method according to claim 17, wherein said applying a predetermined set of rules (3) to one or more of said geographical location (11), said local time (12), said presence (13), said sunlight ( 14), said outside temperature (15), said wind speed (16), said rain (18) corresponds to: - determining said initial position (10) of said slats (100); - receiving said geographical location (11); - receiving said local time (12); - receiving said wind speed (16); - determining whether rain (18) is detected on said plurality of slats (100); - determining whether presence (13) is detected in said underlying space (2); - determining whether sunlight (14) is detected on said plurality of slats (100); Receiving said outside temperature (15); and BE2019 / 5460 - comparing said outside temperature (15) with a threshold value for outside temperature (17).