Corner key for connecting profiles together and frame work assembly

Abstract

A corner key (10) for connecting profiles (12, 14) together and a frame work assembly formed of such corner keys (10) and (profiles (12, 14). Each profile (12, 14) has an anchoring channel (16, 18), a drainage and venting passage (20, 22) and a securing bore (24, 26). The corner key (10) has two adjacent inner corner faces (28, 30), two adjacent outer corner faces (32, 34), and opposite inner and outer side corner faces (36, 38). Tabs (40, 42) on the inner corner faces (28, 30) guide the coupling of the profiles (12, 14). Fasteners (48, 50) are inserted through the outer corner faces (32, 34) in corner key bores (44, 46) and in the bores (24, 26) of the profiles (12, 14). A drainage and venting passage (52) in the corner key (10) communicates with the drainage and venting passages (20, 22) of the profiles (12, 14).

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to a corner key for connecting profiles together and also to a frame work assembly that includes such corner keys and profiles. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Corner keys and lineal profiles are well known in the art, particularly in the context of windows and doors. A lineal profile in this context designates either a sash profile or a frame profile. A corner key is used to connect the sash or frame profiles together. [0003] As it is known in the art, a sash element in the context of windows forms the mobile and working portion of a window. The sash element forms a perimeter called a sash frame that holds the necessary working hardware to allow the sash to slide, pivot, tilt, lock, etc. The sash element also includes the assembly of glazing and the edge-surrounding sash profiles. Sash profiles include top and bottom horizontal rails, and vertical stiles. A sash in the context of doors is most commonly referred to as a ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides a corner key and a frame work assembly that can connect two or more profiles together in a simple and reliable manner with minimal effort and low manufacturing costs. The corner key has inner and outer corner faces, guide arrangements, bores, and fasteners that secure the profiles together. The assembly also includes a drainage and venting passage for equalizing pressure and facilitating drainage. The profiles can be made of PVC and the joints are masked for a better appearance. The technical effects of the invention include improved efficiency and reliability in the construction of frame work assemblies."

Problems solved by technology

A disadvantage of producing mitre joints is that they require relatively expensive cutting equipment to make them.

Such equipment also requires a larger working area and also more highly skilled labour.

However, these assemblies require very complex machining preparation.

However, perpendicular fastener insertion through thermoplastic (PVC) profiles is not satisfactory because of the low tear resistance of such materials.

This technique is disadvantageous in that the frame profiles are to be secured to the corner key in two steps, thus increasing manufacturing time.

None of the above mentioned documents address the problem of the possibility of water and air leakage through the joints between the profiles and the corner keys, nor any description of preventive measures to preclude such leakages.

The preparation of such openings requires special equipment and affords extra labour.

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