Pleats as sun protection  

Awnings

Definition awnings

Awnings are frame constructions with a mounted covering which serves as a protection from sun, heat, dazzling and for security. (Sonnenschutz, Wärmeschutz, Blendschutz Objektschutz) Depending on the version they can as well function as a privacy shield and protection from rain. (Sichtschutz, Regenschutz) Due to their sophisticated technology awnings offer a lot of functionality. They can be controlled manually as well as via remote control. Thus mounting awnings in large height is no problem. Just by pushing a button the awning is rolled in or out. However, awnings are not only remarkable because of their functionality but because of their optics as well. They are available in many different colours and, on demand, various patterns can be dyed in. Especially for hotels the logo can be visible in a large dimension on the rolled-out awning.

Types of awnings

In general, one distinguishes between three kinds of awnings. These are roller awnings, folding awnings and fixed awnings. All three types differ in some facts. At roller awnings the cloth is rolled on a cloth shaft. Folding awnings do not possess a cloth shaft but are very flexible, fixed awnings, however, are absolutely unchangeable in their shape.

Basket awnings

Basket awnings are the simplest awning constructions since they are just composed of a bent frame in the shape of a quadrant, mainly made of aluminum which is either fixed or foldable and covered with a cloth. (Korbmarkise) Additionally an electro motor can be attached to provide a folding or unfolding on pushing a button. For this kind of awning various angular shapes are possible. These awnings are often placed in front of shops or cafes since they can be used for advertising purposes. This type of awning is remarkable since it is relatively inexpensive but effective at the same time. Due to its bent shape it can catch forces easily and is therefore applicable for heavy winds and with suitable cloths also as a protection from rain. (Windschutz, Regenschutz) Especially in northern Germany this kind of awning is very popular as these awnings, as mentioned before, can catch heavy wind very well.

Drop arm awnings

Drop arm awnings are simple roller awning constructions are often mounted in front of windows for providing shadow and privacy shield. (Fallarmmarkise, Sichtschutz, Sonnenschutz) The cloth is located on a shaft and is dropped out by means of two or more arms which are fixed at the bottom of the drop-out profile. By means of pressure springs in or on the arms the required tractive force is raised. Depending on length and mounting height of the drop arms the slewing range can be between 90 and 140 degrees. For higher slewing range the awning must be capable to stand a stronger load. The awning can be controlled electrically by means of a tubular motor located within the shaft or manually via transmission and winder. However, this type of awning is less suitable for shadowing large surfaces. They are more suitable for smaller balconies or shop windows. Articulated arm awnings

Since articulated arm awnings push the cloth away from the shaft by means of two or more so-called articulated arms an almost horizontal roll-out is possible. (Gelenkarmmarkise) Just like many other constructions this kind of awning is made of aluminum. It is mainly used for sun and heat protection. (Sonnenschutz, Hitzeschutz) With exceeded arms the surface is up to 4 meters. Articulated arm awnings can be distinguished between two types. At the open articulated arm awning the cloth shaft is plain to see. They are partly available with roof. At the closed articulated arm awning a protective box is built around the shaft. This cassette protects the awning from weather influences. Articulated arm awnings can also be distinguished between manual and automatic operation.

At manual control the awnings are rolled in or out by means of a connecting rod, at the automatic control this is performed by an electric motor. For mounting this type of awning is screwed with the wall. In case of heavy rainfall or increasing wind the awnings must be rolled in since otherwise the awning as well as the wall can be damaged. This is not a problem, however, since already after a short cranking the awning is put back into its cassette. If you possess an automatic control this is even simpler.

Rope pull awnings

Rope pull awnings are sails which are lead by a guiding hook and are hung on stainless steel ropes. (Seilspannmarkise) The sail also enables a protection from rain. (Regenschutz) The sail can also be directed vertically by only one stainless steel rope. The advantage in comparance to the application of metal eyelets is the quick demounting of the sail by turning the guiding hooks out of the guiding rope. The sun sail is made of textile polyester which is easy to fold and UV resistant. (Sonnensegel)

Conservatory awnings

Conservatory awnings function as a shadow donator for conservatories where strong heat occurs in summer. (Wintergartenmarkise) Especially plants can be quickly damaged by heat. The awning cloth is driven in and out via rope, chain and belt tension and guided in lateral rails or rails on the bottom. Hereby a swinging of the extended awning which is dangerous for the glass surface is avoided.

Cassette awnings

When not used these awnings are put into a cassette and thus protected from dirt or other environmental effects. Many cassette awnings are equipped with a gutter. The inclination of the awning can be 3-60° in order to drain the accumulated water. (Kassetenmarkise)