A panel assembly and method of use thereof

Abstract

(Figure 1) The present invention relates to a horizontally tilting panel assembly for closing openings in buildings, such as, e.g., garages. In one form, the assembly includes a pair of guide tracks mounted relative to each of opposing side walls of jambs of the opening; at least one panel mounted relative to the guide tracks; and one or more guide assemblies mounted on each of opposed sides of the panel for mounting the panel to the guide tracks for movement between an open position and a closed position relative to the opening. In use, when the at least one panel moves from, or to, the closed position, the panel translates relative to the opening during at least an initial or final movement, respectively. 2022201554 07 Mar 2022 1 / 3 Figure 1A Figure 1B 100 100 110 150A 150B 142 140 920 910 950 900 950 900 920 140 142 150B 110 143 141 144 146 152 152 134 910 150A 156 154 114 112 130 120 118 132 124 122 116 116 114 112 130 120 152 146 190 134 132 124 122 810 810 800 144 800 20 22 20 15 54 0 7 M ar 2 02 2 1 / 3 Mar 2022 144 114 134 132 o2022201554 07 116 120 140 150B 146 112 152 122 114 134 190 910 * 800 152 920 150B 110 900 132 100 122

Description

A PANEL ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to closures for openings in buildings. In particular, the present invention concerns an overhead tilting panel assembly for closing building openings. BACKGROUND

[0002] Traditionally, garage doors are relied upon for security purposes to prevent unauthorised intrusions into a garage opening. Furthermore, in some instances, garage doors are also relied upon for protection from the elements, such as, e.g., severe weather events.

[0003] There are three main types of garage doors, namely roller doors, sectional doors and counterweight or tilt doors. Of the three, counterweight or tilts doors are becoming increasingly popular due to the fact that the doors can be customised to have a flush finish and hold a certain weight and material, such as, e.g., a desired cladding, to achieve a desired architectural finish.

[0004] Usually, a counterweight or tilt door includes a single panel, or bi-fold panels, that horizontally tilt or pivot overhead between open and closed positions. Advantageously, when in the closed position, the doors are usually engineered to have a flush finish with a surrounding wall surface and blend in with surrounding walls.

[0005] Problems in general with a counterweight or tilt door-type assembly are the loss of head room and side room around the garage opening due to the door lying below the head of the garage opening when horizontal and in the fully open position and the presence of one or more counterweights or springs located to either side of the garage opening to assist in the opening and closing of the typically heavier door.

[00086] Indeed, the problems are becoming increasingly more pronounced as customers progressively opt for heavier and thicker cladding materials to be applied to the outer surface of such doors to achieve desired architectural finishes. Thicker doors require a greater clearance between the head and the door when opening and closing and thereby result in a further loss of head room. Heavier doors require larger and more sophisticated counterweight and spring mechanisms to facilitate the opening and the closing of such doors.

[0007] It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publication is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or in any other country. SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0008] Embodiments of the present invention provide a panel assembly and method of use, which may at least partially address one or more of the problems or deficiencies mentioned above or which may provide the public with a useful or commercial choice.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a panel assembly for at least partially closing an opening defined by a pair of opposing side walls or jambs, the assembly including: a pair of guide tracks mounted relative to each of the opposing side walls or jambs of the opening; at least one panel mounted relative to the guide tracks, the at least one panel having a pair of opposed sides; and one or more guide assemblies mounted to each of the opposed sides of the at least one panel for mounting the at least one panel to the guide tracks for movement between an open position and closed position relative to the opening, wherein when the at least one panel moves from, or to, the closed position, the panel translates relative to the opening during at least an initial or final movement, respectively.

[0010] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a panel assembly for at least partially closing an opening defined by a pair of opposing side walls or jambs, the assembly including: a pair of guide tracks mounted relative to each of the opposing side walls or jambs of the opening, each guide track including: a generally vertical track section extending longitudinally between a lower end portion and an opposed upper end portion; and a generally horizontal track section extending longitudinally between the upper end portion of the generally vertical track section and an opposed inner end portion; at least one panel mounted relative to the guide tracks, the at least one panel having a pair of opposed sides; and one or more guide assemblies mounted to each of the opposed sides of the at least one panel for mounting the at least one panel to the guide tracks for movement between an open position and closed position relative to the opening, wherein the lower end portion of the generally vertical track section extends outwards relative to a remainder of the track section such that the at least one panel lies substantially flush with an outer surface of the opposing side walls or jambs of the opening when in the closed position.

[0011] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a panel assembly for at least partially closing an opening defined by a pair of opposing side walls or jambs, the assembly including: a pair of guide tracks mounted relative to each of the opposing side walls or jambs of the opening, each guide track including: a generally vertical track section extending longitudinally between a lower end portion and an opposed upper end portion; and a generally horizontal track section extending longitudinally between the upper end portion of the generally vertical track section and an opposed inner end portion; at least one panel mounted relative to the guide tracks, the at least one panel having a pair of opposed sides; and one or more guide assemblies mounted to each of the opposed sides of the at least one panel for mounting the at least one panel to the guide tracks for movement between an open position and closed position relative to the opening, wherein the lower end portion of the generally vertical track section extends outwards relative to a remainder of the track section such that when the at least one panel moves to the closed position, the panel translates outwards relative to the opening during at least a final movement.

[0012] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a panel assembly for at least partially closing an opening defined by a pair of opposing side walls or jambs, the assembly including: a pair of guide tracks mounted relative to each of the opposing side walls or jambs of the opening, each guide track including: a generally vertical track section extending longitudinally between a lower end portion and an opposed upper end portion; and a generally horizontal track section extending longitudinally between the upper end portion of the generally vertical track section and an opposed inner end portion; at least one panel mounted relative to the guide tracks, the at least one panel having a pair of opposed sides; and one or more guide assemblies mounted to each of the opposed sides of the at least one panel for mounting the at least one panel to the guide tracks for movement between an open position and closed position relative to the opening, wherein the upper end portion of the generally vertical track section extends inwards relative to a remainder of the track section such that when the at least one panel moves from the closed position, the panel translates inwards relative to the opening during at least an initial movement.

[0013] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a panel assembly for at least partially closing an opening defined by a pair of opposing side walls or jambs, the assembly including: a pair of guide tracks mounted relative to each of the opposing side walls or jambs of the opening, each guide track including: a generally vertical track section extending longitudinally between a lower end portion and an opposed upper end portion; and a generally horizontal track section extending longitudinally between the upper end portion of the generally vertical track section and an opposed inner end portion; at least one panel mounted relative to the guide tracks, the at least one panel having an upper edge, an opposed lower edge and a pair of opposed sides extending therebetween; and at least a pair of guide assemblies mounted to each of the opposed sides of the at least one panel, said at least a pair including an upper guide assembly mounted at or near the upper edge of the panel and a lower guide assembly at or near the lower edge of the panel for mounting the at least one panel to the guide tracks for movement between an open position and closed position relative to the opening, said upper guide assembly having a protruding track mounting portion, wherein when the at least one panel moves from the closed position, the protruding track mounting portion substantially aligns with the generally horizontal track section such that the panel translates inwards relative to the opening during at least an initial movement.

[0014] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a guide track for mounting at least one panel relative to an opening defined by a pair of opposing side walls or jambs, said guide track including: a generally vertical track section extending longitudinally between a lower end portion and an opposed upper end portion; and a generally horizontal track section extending longitudinally between the upper end portion of the generally vertical track section and an opposed inner end portion, wherein the lower end portion of the generally vertical track section extends outwards relative to a remainder of the track section such that the at least one panel lies substantially flush with an outer surface of the opposing side walls or jambs of the opening when in the closed position.

[0015] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a guide track for mounting at least one panel relative to an opening defined by a pair of opposing side walls or jambs, said guide track including: a generally vertical track section extending longitudinally between a lower end portion and an opposed upper end portion; and a generally horizontal track section extending longitudinally between the upper end portion of the generally vertical track section and an opposed inner end portion, wherein the lower end portion of the generally vertical track section extends outwards relative to a remainder of the track section such that when the at least one panel moves to the closed position, the panel translates outwards relative to the opening during at least a final movement.

[0016] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a guide track for mounting at least one panel relative to an opening defined by a pair of opposing side walls or jambs, said guide tracks including: a generally vertical track section extending longitudinally between a lower end portion and an opposed upper end portion; and a generally horizontal track section extending longitudinally between the upper end portion of the generally vertical track section and an opposed inner end portion, wherein the upper end portion of the generally vertical track section extends inwards relative to a remainder of the track section such that when the at least one panel moves from the closed position, the panel translates inwards relative to the opening during at least an initial movement.

[0017] Advantageously, the guide tracks of the panel assembly of the present invention guide the at least one panel between open and closed positions relative to an opening without the need for counterweights or springs thereby restoring side room space that would otherwise be lost with a counterweight or tilt door. Further, by causing the panel to translate as an initial or final movement, when the panel moves from, or to, the open or closed positions, the guide tracks of the assembly advantageously ensure that there is sufficient clearance between the panel and the head of the opening as well as restoring head room that would otherwise be lost with conventional overhead tilting doors.

[0018] As indicated above, the panel assembly of the present invention is for mounting relative to, and at least partially closing, an opening, preferably a garage door opening. It will therefore be convenient to hereinafter describe the panel assembly with reference to this example application as a garage door panel assembly. However, a person skilled in the art will appreciate that the panel assembly is capable of broader application and may be mounted to any suitable opening, such as, e.g., a window opening, a shopfront opening, a building opening or a door opening.

[0019] The opening may be defined by a head, an opposing ground or support surface and the pair of opposing side walls or jambs extending therebetween. Typically, the opening may be substantially rectangular in shape. In some embodiments, however, the head may be curved or arcuate.

[0020] As mentioned above, the panel assembly includes at least one panel. The at least one panel may be of any suitable size, shape and construction to at least partially close the opening, preferably entirely close the opening.

[0021] Likewise, the at least one panel may be constructed from any suitable material or materials. Generally, the panel may be predominantly constructed from a metal material or materials. Although, in some embodiments, it is envisaged that the panel may be predominantly formed from glass.

[0022] The at least one panel may be of unitary construction or may be formed from two or more panel pieces joined together.

[0023] Typically, the panel may be of a shape to match or complement the shape of the corresponding opening. Preferably, the panel may have a substantially rectangular shape.

[0024] The panel may have a pair of opposed surfaces interconnected by opposing edges. The opposed surfaces may include an inner surface and an opposed outer surface on which cladding may be applied. The opposing edges may include an upper edge, an opposed lower edge and opposed sides for mounting the panel relative to the opening.

[0025] In some embodiments, the at least one panel may be of a solid construction.

[0026] In other embodiments, the at least one panel may be fenestrated.

[0027] In some embodiments the at least one panel may include a frame including an outer frame and a plurality of cross frame members extending transversely across the frame, typically in a spaced arrangement.

[0028] In some embodiments, the at least one panel may include more than one panel. For example, the at least one panel may include two, three, four, five or six panels.

[0029] In such embodiments, the one or more adjacent panels may be mounted relative to one another along an upper edge, a lower edge or both such that an adjacent panel, or panels, may pivot relative to one another when moving from a first position to a second position.

[0030] Typically, two or more panels may be mounted to one another using any suitable means known in the art that allows a first panel to pivot relative to a second panel during movement of the panels from one position to another, such as, e.g., between open and closed positions.

[0031] In some such embodiments, the one or more panels may be mounted to one another using one or more hinges.

[0032] The one or more hinges may include guide mounting hinges for mounting two adjacent panels to one another and a guide assembly to at least one of the adjacent panels. Alternately, the one or more hinges may include one or more intermediate hinges for mounting two adjacent panels to one another. Conversely, the one or more hinges may include a combination of one or more guide mounting hinges and intermediate hinges, preferably the outer most hinges may be guide mounting hinges and the inner hinge or hinges may be intermediate hinges.

[0033] In other such embodiments, the one or more panels may be mounted to one another using an integrated pivot mechanism.

[0034] The at least one panel may include one or more reinforcement members for providing support along a height and / or a width of the panel.

[0035] The one or more reinforcement members may be of any suitable size, shape and construction and may be mounted in any suitable arrangement along the height and / or width of the panel, typically in a spaced arrangement. A person skilled in the art, however, will appreciate that the at least one panel may include any number of reinforcement members spaced apart from one another and extending along the width and / or height of the panel.

[0036] Each reinforcement member may include a pair of opposed ends and an elongate body extending therebetween. Each reinforcement member may have any suitable profile shape for providing support to the panel across the width and / or height of the panel.

[0037] In some embodiments, the one or more reinforcement members may extend between the upper and lower edges of the at least one panel, preferably along the inner surface. The opposed ends may preferably be mounted to, or near, the upper and lower edges of the panel. In such embodiments, each reinforcement member may be in the form of a stile.

[0038] In other embodiments, the one or more reinforcement members may extend between the opposed sides, again preferably along the inner surface. The opposed ends may preferably be mounted to or near the opposed sides of the panel. In such embodiments, each reinforcement member may be in the form of a strut.

[0039] As mentioned above, the assembly may include one or more guide assemblies for mounting the panel to the guide tracks.

[0040] Each guide assembly may be of any suitable size, shape and construction for slidably mounting the at least one panel to a channel defined by each guide track.

[0041] The guide assembly may typically include a track mounting portion and a panel attachment portion. The track mounting portion may be configured to slide along the channel defined by each guide track. The panel attachment portion may be configured to be attachable to a side of the panel for mounting the panel to one of the guide tracks.

[0042] The track mounting portion may include one or more wheels, rollers, plain bearing pads or the like configured to be received within the channel defined by each guide track and be moveable along the channel.

[0043] In some embodiments the panel attachment portion may include a clip or clamp having a pair of opposed clamping members configured to receive at least a portion of the side of the panel therebetween to thereby attach to the panel.

[0044] In other embodiments, the panel attachment portion may include a bracket including one or more openings each for receiving a mechanical fastener therethrough for fastening the bracket to a side portion of the at least one panel, preferably on an inner surface at or near an adjacent side.

[0045] The track mounting portion and the panel attachment portion may be of unitary construction or may be separate pieces that are connected or joined together, preferably the latter.

[0046] Suitably, the track mounting portion and panel attachment portion of each guide assembly may be connected by a shaft or bracket extending therebetween. The shaft may include a first end for mounting to, or comprising, the track mounting portion and an opposed second end for mounting to, or comprising, the panel attachment portion.

[0047] In other embodiments, each guide assembly may include a roller assembly as is known in the art.

[0048] In some embodiments, one or more of the guide assemblies may each include two or more wheels, rollers, plain bearing pads or the like, preferably arranged in a bogie arrangement.

[0049] In some embodiments, the shaft or bracket connecting the track mounting portion and panel attachment portion of each guide assembly may be of differing lengths. For example, in some embodiments, it may be advantageous for the track mounting portion to protrude away from the at least one panel (preferably in an inwards direction away from the inner surface).

[0050] The one or more guide assemblies may be arranged in any suitable arrangement along the opposed sides of the at least one panel.

[0051] Generally, each side of the at least one panel may include at least a pair of guide assemblies, typically located at or near each of the upper and lower edges of the panel.

[0052] For example, in some embodiments a first guide assembly of the pair may be located at or near the upper edge of the panel and a second guide assembly of the pair may be located at or near the lower edge of the panel.

[0053] In some such embodiments, the track mounting portion of the first guide assembly may preferably protrude inwards away from the inner surface of the panel, and the track mounting portion of the second guide assembly may preferably be located adjacent a side of the panel.

[0054] As mentioned, the assembly includes a pair of guide tracks each for guiding the respective guide assemblies and the at least one panel mounted thereto between the open and closed positions.

[0055] Each guide track may be substantially elongate.

[0056] Each guide track may have a substantially constant cross sectional profile. Likewise, each guide track may be of a substantially constant thickness.

[0057] As mentioned, each guide track may have a channel for guiding passage of the respective guide assemblies. The channel may be of any suitable cross sectional shape to facilitate movement of the guide assemblies along the channel but prevent lateral movement or separation of the guide assemblies away from the channel.

[0058] Generally, each guide track may include three portions when viewed in cross section: a first portion, a second portion and a third portion that together form the channel. Typically, the second portion bridges the first and third portions.

[0059] In some embodiments, the channel may have a substantially C- or U-shaped profile shape.

[0060] Each guide track may be mounted to the side wall or jamb and / or to a ceiling surface by one or more guide track brackets. A skilled person will appreciate that any suitable bracket known in the art for mounting a guide track relative to an opening may be used.

[0061] Each guide track includes a generally vertical track section extending longitudinally between a lower end portion and an opposed upper end portion and a generally horizontal track section extending longitudinally between the upper end portion of the generally vertical track section and an opposed inner end portion.

[0062] Each track section may have a pair of opposed ends and an elongate body extending therebetween.

[0063] The opposed ends of the generally vertical track section may include a lower end and an opposed upper end. The lower end portion may correspond to a portion of the track at the lower end and the upper end portion may correspond to a portion of the track at the upper end.

[0064] The opposed ends of the generally horizontal track section may include an outer end located adjacent the opening and an opposed inner end. The inner end portion may correspond to a portion of the track at the inner end.

[0065] The generally vertical and horizontal track sections may connect in any suitable way to define a continuous passageway for passage or movement of the guide assemblies mounted thereto between the vertical and horizontal track sections.

[0066] Generally, the vertical and horizontal track sections may define a substantially L- or J-shaped guide track.

[0067] For example, in some embodiments, the generally horizontal track section may extend inwards, relative to the opening, from the upper end of the generally vertical track section, preferably in a substantially perpendicular orientation relative to a height of the generally vertical track section.

[0068] In other embodiments, the generally horizontal track section may extend inwards from a location near the upper end of the generally vertical track section such that the upper end portion extends past the horizontal track section, preferably also past a head of the opening. The generally horizontal track section may typically extend inwards from the generally vertical track section at height substantially level with the upper edge of the panel, when in the closed position.

[0069] In such embodiments, the upper end portion may define a receiving portion for at least partially receiving the second guide assembly located at or near the lower edge of the at least one panel, when in the open position. In use, the receiving portion may advantageously enable the at least one panel to tilt to a horizontal orientation when in the open position and lie in a substantially horizontal plane above the head of the opening thereby providing greater head room than a conventional counterweight or tilt door.

[0070] As indicated, in some embodiments the lower end portion of the generally vertical track section extends outwards relative to a remainder of the track section, preferably angles outwards in a linear direction.

[0071] The lower end portion may angle outwards at any suitable angle. For example, the lower end portion may extend outwards relative to a substantially vertical axis of a remainder of the track section at an angle ranging from between about 10° and about 50°, preferably from about 20° and about 40°, more preferably at about 30°.

[0072] In such embodiments, the outwardly extending lower end portion of the generally vertical track section and the inward extension of the generally horizontal track at a height substantially level with the upper edge of the panel may together in use cause both an initial and final movement of the panel when respectively moving from and to the closed position to be a translation of the panel relative to the opening.

[0073] For example, when opening, the panel may translate inwards relative to the opening as an initial movement, preferably thereby providing clearance between the panel and the head of the opening.

[0074] Likewise, when closing, the panel may translate outwards relative to the opening as a final movement, preferably such that the panel lies substantially flush with an outer surface of the opposing side walls or jambs of the opening.

[0075] In some embodiments, the inner end portion of the generally horizontal track section may extend upwards relative to a remainder of the track section, preferably angling upwards in a linear direction.

[0076] The inner end portion may angle upwards at any suitable angle. For example, the inner end portion may extend upwards relative to a longitudinal axis of a remainder of the track section at an angle ranging from between about 5° and about 25°, preferably from about 10° and about 20°, more preferably at about 15°.

[0077] In such embodiments, the upwardly extending inner end portion of the generally horizontal track section and the receiving portion of the generally vertical track section may together in use cause both the initial and final movements of the panel when respectively moving from and to the open position to be a vertical translation of the panel.

[0078] For example, when closing, the panel may translate downwards as an initial movement, preferably thereby lowering the lower edge of the at least one panel relative to the head of the opening.

[0079] Likewise, when opening, the panel may translate upwards as a final movement, preferably thereby increasing headroom beneath the panel.

[0080] In some embodiments, the upper end portion of the generally vertical track section may extend inwards relative to a remainder of the track section, preferably angling inwards in a linear direction.

[0081] The upper end portion may angle inwards at any suitable angle. For example, the upper end portion may extend inwards relative to a longitudinal axis of a remainder of the track section at an angle ranging from between about 5° and about 35°, preferably from about 15° and about 25°, more preferably at about 23°.

[0082] In such embodiments, the inwardly extending upper end portion and the receiving portion of the generally vertical track section may together in use cause both the initial and final movements of the panel when respectively moving from and to the open position to be a vertical translation of the panel.

[0083] For example, when closing, the panel may translate downwards as an initial movement, preferably thereby lowering the lower edge of the at least one panel relative to the head of the opening.

[0084] Likewise, when opening, the panel may translate upwards as a final movement, preferably thereby increasing headroom beneath the panel.

[0085] Advantageously, the protruding track mounting portion of the first guide assembly may assist in both translation of the panel relative to the opening and vertically as it transitions between the generally vertical and horizontal track sections and / or into and out of the upwardly extending inner end portion, depending on the embodiment.

[0086] The assembly may preferably include an actuator or actuating mechanism for moving the at least one panel along the guide tracks relative to the opening between the open and closed positions.

[0087] Any suitable type of actuator or actuating mechanism may be used. The actuator or actuating mechanism may be manually actuated or by using a drive, preferably the latter.

[0088] For example, if manually actuated, the actuator or actuating mechanism may include one or more of a lever, a ram, an operable handle or a sliding arrangement for moving the at least one panel along the guide tracks.

[0089] In some embodiments, the actuator or actuating mechanism may include one or more biasing members or mechanisms so that movement to, or from, the open or closed position works against, or with, the force of the biasing member or mechanism. The biasing member or mechanism may include one or more springs, such as, e.g., coil springs.

[0090] In some embodiments, the actuator or actuating mechanism may include one or more linear actuators each capable of moving between an extended position and retracted position. The extended and retracted positions may correspond with the closed and open positions of the at least one panel relative to the opening.

[0091] In other embodiments, the actuator or actuating mechanism may include a drive motor, such as, e.g., an electric motor, operatively associated with a drive carriage releasably coupling the drive motor to the at least one panel. A skilled person will appreciate that any suitable drive motor and drive carriage known in the art for driving movement of at least one panel along guide tracks relative to an opening may be used.

[0092] The drive motor may be located in any suitable location and / or arrangement relative to the at least one panel and the opening.

[0093] For example, in some embodiments the drive motor may be front mounted adjacent the opening in a location adjacent the head of the opening and generally above the guide tracks. The drive motor may be centrally mounted relative to the opening or to a side.

[0094] In other embodiments, the drive motor may be rear mounted in a location inwards from the opening and generally level with the generally horizontal track section. Again, the drive motor may be centrally mounted relative to the opening or to a side.

[0095] As indicated, the drive carriage may extend between the drive motor and the at least one panel and may be releasably coupled to the at least one panel. Suitably, the drive carriage may be coupled to the lower edge and / or upper edge of the at least one panel.

[0096] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of at least partially closing an opening defined by a pair of opposing side walls or jambs, said method including: providing the panel assembly of any one of the first to fifth aspects; and moving the at least one panel of the panel assembly relative to the pair of guide tracks to at least partially close the opening, such that the at least one panel lies substantially flush with an outer surface of the opposing side walls or jambs of the opening when in the closed position.

[0097] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of at least partially closing an opening defined by a pair of opposing side walls or jambs, said method including: providing the panel assembly of any one of the first and third to fifth aspects; and moving the at least one panel of the panel assembly relative to the pair of guide tracks to at least partially close the opening, such that the at least one panel translates outwards relative to the opening during at least a final movement.

[0098] According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of at least partially opening an opening defined by a pair of opposing side walls or jambs, said method including: providing the panel assembly of any one of the first and third to fifth aspects; and moving the at least one panel of the panel assembly relative to the pair of guide tracks to at least partially open the opening, such that the at least one panel translates inwards relative to the opening during at least an initial movement.

[0099] The methods of the ninth to the eleventh aspects may include one or more features or characteristics of the panel assembly and guide track as hereinbefore described.

[00100] Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention.

[00101] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[00102] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of Invention in any way. The Detailed Description will make reference to a number of drawings as follows:

[00103] Figures 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams respectively showing sectional side views of a panel assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention in the closed and open positions relative to an opening;

[00104] Figures 2A and 2B are schematic diagrams respectively showing sectional side views of a panel assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention in the closed and open positions relative to an opening; and

[00105] Figures 3A and 3B are schematic diagrams respectively showing sectional side views of a panel assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention in the closed and open positions relative to an opening. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00106] Figures 1A, 1B, 2A, 2B, 3A and 3B show a panel assembly (100) according to various embodiments of the present invention for mounting relative to, and opening and closing, a garage door opening (300; i.e., an opening) of a garage (950).

[00107] Figures 1A and 1B show a first embodiment of the panel assembly (100).

[00108] The garage door opening (900) is defined by a head (810), an opposing ground or support surface and a pair of opposing side walls or jambs (920) extending therebetween. The opening (900) is substantially rectangular in shape.

[00108] The panel assembly (100) includes a pair of guide tracks (110) mounted relative to each of the opposing side walls or jambs (820); a panel (140) mounted relative to the guide tracks (110) and having a pair of opposed sides (142); and a pair of guide assemblies (150) mounted to each side (142) of the panel (140) for mounting the panel (140) to the guide tracks (110) for movement between a closed position (shown in Figure 1A) and an open position (shown in Figure 1B) relative to the opening (900).

[00110] The guide tracks (110) advantageously cause the panel (140) to translate as an initial or final movement, when the panel (140) moves from, or to, the open or closed positions. In turn, this enables the panel (140) to lie substantially flush with an external wall surface when in the closed position, as shown in Figure 1A, without a loss of head room in the garage (950) when in the open position, as shown in Figure 1B.

[00111] Referring to Figure 1A, the panel (140) has a substantially rectangular shape to match the shape of the garage opening (200).

[00112] The panel (140) is predominantly constructed from a metal material or materials.

[00113] The panel (140) has a pair of opposed surfaces interconnected by opposing edges. The opposed surfaces include an inner surface (141) and an opposed outer surface (143) on which cladding may be applied. The opposing edges include an upper edge (144), an opposed lower edge (146) and the opposed sides (142) for mounting the panel (140) relative to the opening (800).

[00114] As mentioned, the at assembly (100) includes a pair of guide assemblies (150) mounted to each side (142) of the panel (140) for mounting the panel (140) to the guide tracks (110).

[00115] Each guide assembly (150) include a track mounting portion (152), a panel attachment portion (154) and bracket (156) extending therebetween. The track mounting portion (152) is configured to slide along a channel defined by each guide track (110). The panel attachment portion (154) is configured to be attachable to a side (142) of the panel (140) for mounting the panel (140) to the guide tracks (110).

[00116] The track mounting portion (152) includes a roller configured to be received within a channel defined by each guide track (110) and to be moveable along the channel.

[00117] The pair of guide assemblies (150) includes a first guide assembly (150A) located at or near the upper edge (144) of the panel (140) and a second guide assembly (150B) located at or near the lower edge (146) of the panel (140).

[00118] As shown, the first guide assembly (150A) includes a protruding track mounting portion (152).

[00119] The guide tracks (110) are substantially elongate and have substantially constant sectional profile.

[00120] Each guide track (110) defines a channel (118) for guiding passage of the respective guide assemblies (150). The channel (118) has a cross sectional shape that facilitates movement of the guide assemblies (150) along the channel (118) but prevents lateral movement or separation of the guide assemblies (150) away from the channel (118).

[00121] Referring to both Figures 1A and 1B, each guide track (110) includes a generally vertical track section (120) extending longitudinally between a lower end portion (112) and an opposed upper end portion (114) and a generally horizontal track section (130) extending longitudinally between the upper end portion (114) of the generally vertical track section (120) and an opposed inner end portion (1186).

[00122] Each track section (120, 130) has a pair of opposed ends and an elongate body extending therebetween.

[00123] The opposed ends of the generally vertical track section (120) include a lower end (122) and an opposed upper end (124). The lower end portion (112) corresponds to a portion of the track (110) at the lower end (122) and the upper end portion (114) corresponds to a portion of the track (110) at the upper end (124).

[00124] The opposed ends of the generally horizontal track section (130) include an outer end (132) located adjacent the opening (900) and an opposed inner end (134). The inner end portion (116) corresponds to a portion of the track (110) at the inner end (134).

[00125] Generally, the vertical and horizontal track sections (120, 130) define a substantially L-shaped guide track (110) and connect together to define a continuous passageway for passage or movement of the guide assemblies (150) between the vertical and horizontal track sections (120, 130).

[00126] Specifically, and as shown in Figure 1A, the generally horizontal track section (130) extends inward from a location near the upper end (124) of the generally vertical track section (120) such that the upper end portion (114) extends past the horizontal track section (130) and the head (910) of the opening (900). The generally horizontal track section (130) extends inward from the generally vertical track section (120) at height substantially level with the upper edge (144) of the panel (140), when in the closed position.

[00127] With reference to Figure 1B, in such embodiments the upper end portion (114) defines a receiving portion (190) for at least partially receiving the second guide assembly (150B), when the panel (140) is in the open position. In use, the receiving portion (190) advantageously enables the panel (140) to tilt to a horizontal orientation in the open position and lie in a substantially horizontal plane above the head (910) of the opening (200) thereby providing greater head room in a garage (950) than a conventional counterweight or tilt door.

[00128] Referring again to both Figures 1A and 1B, the lower end portion (112) of the generally vertical track section (120) angles outwards relative to a remainder of the track section (120) in a linear direction and at an angle of about 30° relative to a vertical axis.

[00129] Further, the inner end portion (116) of the generally horizontal track section (130) angles upwards relative to a remainder of the track section (130) in a linear direction and at an angle of about 15° relative to the remainder of the track section (130).

[00130] Referring to Figure 1A, the outwardly extending lower end portion (112) of the generally vertical track section (120) and the inward extension of the generally horizontal track section (130) at a height substantially level with the upper edge (144) of the panel (140) together cause both an initial and final movement of the panel (140) when respectively moving from and to the closed position to be a translation of the panel (140) relative to the opening (900).

[00131] For example, when opening, the panel (140) translates inwards relative to the opening (900) as an initial movement thereby advantageously providing clearance between the panel (140) and the head (810) of the opening (200).

[00132] Likewise, when closing, the panel (140) translates outwards relative to the opening (900) as a final movement such that the panel (300) advantageously lies substantially flush with an outer surface of the opposing side walls or jambs (920) of the opening (800).

[00133] Referring to Figure 1B, the upwardly extending inner end portion (116) of the generally horizontal track section (130) and the receiving portion (190) of the generally vertical track section (120) together cause both the initial and final movements of the panel (140) when respectively moving from and to the open position to be a vertical translation of the panel (140).

[00134] For example, when closing, the panel (140) translates downwards as an initial movement thereby lowering the lower edge (146) of the panel (140) relative to the head (910) of the opening (900).

[00135] Likewise, when opening, the panel (140) translates upwards as a final movement thereby increasing headroom beneath the panel (140) in the garage (950).

[00136] Advantageously, the protruding track mounting portion (152) of the first guide assembly (150A) assists both in translation of the panel (140) relative to the opening (900) and vertically as it transitions between the generally vertical and horizontal track sections (120, 130) and into and out of the upwardly extending inner end portion (116).

[00137] As shown in both Figures 1A and 1B, the upper edge (144) of the panel (140) is coupled to a rear mounted drive motor (800) by a drive carriage (810) for driving movement of the panel (140) between the open and closed positions.

[00138] Figures 2A and 2B show a second embodiment of the panel assembly (100) for mounting relative to, and opening and closing, a garage door opening (900). For convenience, features that are similar or correspond to features of the first embodiment will be referenced with the same reference numeral.

[00138] The panel assembly (100) again includes a pair of guide tracks (110) mounted relative to each of the opposing side walls or jambs (920); a panel (140) mounted relative to the guide tracks (110) and having a pair of opposed sides (142); and a pair of guide assemblies (150) mounted to each side (142) of the panel (140) for mounting the panel (140) to the guide tracks (110) for movement between a closed position (shown in Figure 2A) and an open position (shown in Figure 2B) relative to the opening (300).

[00140] The guide tracks (110) advantageously cause the panel (140) to translate as an initial and final movement, when the panel (140) moves from, or to, the open or closed positions. In turn, this enables the panel (140) to lie substantially flush with an external wall surface when in the closed position, as shown in Figure 2A, without a loss of head room in the garage (950) when in the open position, as shown in Figure 2B.

[00141] Referring to both Figures 2A and 2B, each guide track (110) includes a generally vertical track section (120) extending longitudinally between a lower end (122) and an opposed upper end (124) and a generally horizontal track section (130) extending longitudinally between the end (124) of the generally vertical track section (120) and an opposed inner end (134).

[00142] Generally, the vertical and horizontal track sections (120, 130) define a substantially J-shaped guide track (110) and connect together to define a continuous passageway for passage or movement of the guide assemblies (150) between the vertical and horizontal track sections (120, 130).

[00143] Specifically, and as shown in Figure 2A, the upper end portion (114) of the generally vertical track section (120) angles inwards in a linear direction and at an angle of about 23° relative to a longitudinal axis of a remainder of the track section (120).

[00144] In such embodiments, the generally horizontal track section (130) extends inwards from a location near the upper end (124) of the generally vertical track section (120) such that at least a portion of the upper end portion (114) extends past the horizontal track section (130) and the head (910) of the opening (900). The generally horizontal track section (130) extends inward from the generally vertical track section (120) at a height substantially level with the upper edge (144) of the panel (140), when in the closed position.

[00145] With reference to Figure 2B, in such embodiments at least a portion of the upper end portion (114) defines a receiving portion (190) for at least partially receiving the second guide assembly (150B), when the panel (140) is in the open position. In use, the receiving portion (190) advantageously enables the panel (140) to tilt to a horizontal orientation in the open position and lie in a substantially horizontal plane above the head (910) of the opening (900) thereby providing greater head room than a conventional counterweight or tilt door.

[00146] In such embodiments, the inwardly extending upper end portion (114) and the receiving portion (190) of the generally vertical track section (120) together cause both the initial and final movements of the panel (140) when respectively moving from and to the open position to be a vertical translation of the panel (140).

[00147] For example, when closing, the panel (140) translates downwards as an initial movement thereby lowering the lower edge (146) of the panel (140) relative to the head (910) of the opening (900).

[00148] Likewise, when opening, the panel (140) translates upwards as a final movement thereby increasing headroom beneath the panel (140) in the garage (950).

[00149] Referring to both Figures 2A and 2B, the protruding track mounting portion (152) of the first guide assembly (150A) again advantageously assists both in translation of the panel (140) relative to the opening (900) and vertically as it transitions between the generally vertical and horizontal track sections (120, 130).

[00150] Figures 3A and 3B show a third embodiment of the panel assembly (100) for mounting relative to, and opening and closing, a garage door opening (900). For convenience, features that are similar or correspond to features of the first or second embodiments will be referenced with the same reference numeral.

[00151] The panel assembly (100) again includes a pair of guide tracks (110) mounted relative to each of the opposing side walls or jambs (920); a panel (140) mounted relative to the guide tracks (110) and having a pair of opposed sides (142); and a pair of guide assemblies (150) mounted to each side (142) of the panel (140) for mounting the panel (140) to the guide tracks (110) for movement between a closed position (shown in Figure 3A) and an open position (shown in Figure 3B) relative to the opening (300).

[00152] Referring to both Figures 3A and 3B, each guide track (110) includes a generally vertical track section (120) extending longitudinally between a lower end (122) and an opposed upper end (124) and a generally horizontal track section (130) extending longitudinally between the end (124) of the generally vertical track section (120) and an opposed inner end (134).

[00153] Generally, the vertical and horizontal track sections (120, 130) define a substantially L-shaped guide track (110) and connect together to define a continuous passageway for passage or movement of the guide assemblies (150) between the vertical and horizontal track sections (120, 130).

[00154] Specifically, and as shown in Figure 3A, the generally horizontal track section (130) extends inwards from a location near the upper end (124) of the generally vertical track section (120) such that the upper end portion (114) extends past the horizontal track section (130). The generally horizontal track section (130) extends inward from the generally vertical track section (120) at a height substantially level with the upper edge (144) of the panel (140), when in the closed position.

[00155] With reference to Figure 3B, in such embodiments the upper end portion (114) defines a receiving portion (190) for at least partially receiving the second guide assembly (150B), when the panel (140) is in the open position.

[00156] Further, and referring back to Figure 3A, the protruding track mounting portion (152) of the first guide assembly (150A) advantageously assists in translation of the panel (140) relative to the opening (800) by substantially aligning with the outer end (132) of the generally horizontal track section (130), when in the closed position.

[00157] Referring to both Figures 3A and 3B, the lower edge (146) of the panel (140) is coupled to a front mounted drive motor (800) by a drive carriage (810) for driving movement of the panel (140) between the open and closed positions.

[00158] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word ‘comprising’ and its derivatives including ‘comprises’ and ‘comprise’ include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

[00159] Reference throughout this specification to ‘one embodiment’ or ‘an embodiment’ means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases fn one embodiment’ or ‘in an embodiment’ in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[00160] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims

CLAIMS 1 A panel assembly for at least partially closing an opening defined by a pair of opposing side walls or jambs, the assembly including: a pair of guide tracks mounted relative to each of the opposing side walls or jambs of the opening, each guide track including: a generally vertical track section extending longitudinally between a lower end portion and an opposed upper end portion; and a generally horizontal track section extending longitudinally between the upper end portion of the generally vertical track section and an opposed inner end portion; at least one panel mounted relative to the guide tracks, the at least one panel having a pair of opposed sides; and one or more guide assemblies mounted to each of the opposed sides of the at least one panel for mounting the at least one panel to the guide tracks for movement between an open position and closed position relative to the opening, wherein when the at least one panel moves from, or to, the closed position, the panel translates relative to the opening during at least an initial or final movement, respectively.

2. The panel assembly of claim 1, wherein the lower end portion of the generally vertical track section extends outwards relative to a remainder of the track section such that the at least one panel lies substantially flush with an outer surface of the opposing side walls or jambs of the opening when in the closed position. 3 The panel assembly of claim 2, wherein the lower end portion angles outwards in a linear direction relative to a substantially vertical axis of the remainder of the track section.

4. The panel assembly of claim 2 or claim 3, wherein, when the at least one panel moves to the closed position, the panel translates outwards relative to the opening during at least a final movement.

5. The panel assembly of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the inner end portion of the generally horizontal track section extends upwards relative to a remainder of the track section so as to cause initial and final movements of the at least one panel when respectively moving from and to the open position to be a vertical translation of the at least one panel.

6. The panel assembly of claim 5, wherein the inner end portion angles upwards in linear direction relative to a longitudinal axis of the remainder of the track section.

7. The panel assembly of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the upper end portion of the generally vertical track section extends inwards relative to a remainder of the track section such that when the at least one panel moves from the closed position, the panel translates inwards relative to the opening during at least an initial movement.

8. The panel assembly of claim 7, wherein the upper end portion angles inwards in a linear direction relative to a longitudinal axis of the remainder of the track section.

9. The panel assembly of claim 7 or claim 8, wherein the inwardly extending upper end portion causes initial and final movements of the at least one panel when respectively moving from and to the open position to be a vertical translation of the at least one panel.

10. The panel assembly of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the one or more guide assemblies include at least a pair of guide assemblies mounted to each of the opposed sides of the at least one panel, said at least a pair including an upper guide assembly mounted at or near the upper edge of the panel and a lower guide assembly mounted at or near the lower edge of the panel for mounting the at least one panel to the guide tracks for movement between the open position and the closed position relative to the opening.

11. The panel of claim 10, wherein said upper guide assembly has a protruding track mounting portion configured to protrude inwards away from an inner surface of the at least one panel.

12. The panel of claim 10 or claim 11, wherein said lower guide assembly has a track mounting portion located adjacent a side of the at least one panel.

13. The panel assembly of claim 11 or claim 12, wherein, when the at least one panel moves from the closed position, the protruding track mounting portion substantially aligns with the generally horizontal track section such that the panel translates inwards relative to the opening during at least an initial movement.

14. The panel assembly of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein each of said one or more guide assemblies includes a track mounting portion configured to slide along a channel defined by each guide track and a panel attachment portion configured to be attachable to a side of the at least one panel for mounting the at least one panel to one of the guide tracks.

16. The panel assembly of any one of claims 1 to 14, further including an actuator or actuating mechanism for moving the at least one panel along the guide tracks relative to the opening between the open and closed positions.

16. The panel assembly of claim 15, wherein the actuator or actuating mechanism includes a drive motor operatively associated with a drive carriage releasably coupling the drive motor to at least one panel.

17. A guide track for mounting at least one panel relative to an opening defined by a pair of opposing side walls or jambs, said guide track including: a generally vertical track section extending longitudinally between a lower end portion and an opposed upper end portion; and a generally horizontal track section extending longitudinally between the upper end portion of the generally vertical track section and an opposed inner end portion, wherein the lower end portion of the generally vertical track section extends outwards relative to a remainder of the track section such that the at least one panel lies substantially flush with an outer surface of the opposing side walls or jambs of the opening when in the closed position, and such that when the at least one panel moves to the closed position, the panel translates outwards relative to the opening during at least a final movement.

18. The guide track of claim 17, wherein the upper end portion of the generally vertical track section extends inwards relative to a remainder of the track section such that when the at least one panel moves from the closed position, the panel translates inwards relative to the opening during at least an initial movement.

18. A method of at least partially closing an opening defined by a pair of opposing side walls or jambs, said method including: providing the panel assembly of any one of claims 1 to 16; and moving the at least one panel of the panel assembly relative to the pair of guide tracks to at least partially close the opening, such that the at least one panel lies substantially flush with an outer surface of the opposing side walls or jambs of the opening when in the closed position.

20. A method of at least partially closing an opening defined by a pair of opposing side walls or jambs, said method including: providing the panel assembly of any one of claims 1 to 16; and moving the at least one panel of the panel assembly relative to the pair of guide tracks to at least partially close the opening, such that the at least one panel translates outwards relative to the opening during at least a final movement.

21. A method of at least partially opening an opening defined by a pair of opposing side walls or jambs, said method including: providing the panel assembly of any one of claims 1 to 16; and moving the at least one panel of the panel assembly relative to the pair of guide tracks to at least partially open the opening, such that the at least one panel translates inwards relative to the opening during ¢ an movemer Date: 7 March 2022

Images