Threshold arrangement for a door or window frame

Abstract

Threshold arrangement (6) for a door or window frame, comprising: a horizontal threshold profile (1); at least one vertical thermoplastic frame profile (7) having a first mitered surface (7a) at its lower end; and at least one thermoplastic sleeper connector (2) which is arranged at a longitudinal end of the sleeper profile (1) and has a second miter surface (2c) corresponding to the first miter surface (7a), characterized by the fact that a lower, thermoplastic frame profile (8) is provided on which the sleeper profile (1) is arranged and which has a third mitered surface (8a) at its end, which is aligned with the second mitered surface (2c) of the sleeper connector (2), a widening profile (3) is provided on a lower inside side of the vertical frame profile (7), which has a fourth mitered surface (3a) at its lower end, which is aligned with the first mitered surface (7a) of the vertical frame profile (7), and that the threshold connector (2), the lower frame profile (8), the vertical frame profile (7) and the widening profile (3) are welded together along their respective aligned mitered surfaces (2c, 3a, 7a, 8a) to form a single, continuous corner connection (9).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a threshold arrangement for a door or window frame according to the preamble of claim 1. In particular, the invention relates to a special corner connection for a frame, i.e., the part of the frame that is to be permanently installed in a building. The invention aims to improve the connection between the horizontal threshold area and the vertical frame areas with regard to tightness and stability.

[0002] The thermoplastic profiles repeatedly mentioned in the following description are preferably hollow chamber profiles made of a thermoplastic material, such as PVC.

[0003] In window and door construction, the corner joint of the fixed frame, particularly the connection of the lower, horizontal sill to the lateral, vertical frame profiles, represents a critical point for the airtightness of the assembly and for sealing against the masonry. Typically, the sill, or a corresponding metal sill profile, is screwed to the frame profiles using special connectors or directly. This has the significant disadvantage that gaps and penetrations can occur when the seal is pulled upwards laterally.

[0004] Therefore, a flush sealing surface, preferably made of a uniform material, is required to ensure a reliable and durable seal. Solutions involving the welding of thermoplastic components are known to achieve this. However, these known solutions have specific disadvantages:

[0005] For example, DE 10 2008 015 989 B3 describes an arrangement in which a threshold connector is attached to a threshold profile and welded to the vertical frame profile. However, this solution is incomplete because, when using a substructure profile that is often structurally necessary, a gap remains between the connector and this profile, penetrating the sealing plane. Furthermore, in this design, the connector protrudes significantly into the visible surface of the frame, which is aesthetically displeasing, especially with decorative frame designs.

[0006] Other solutions, such as that from EP 2 469 003 B1, show connectors that extend only over a portion of the profile depth and also project far into the visible surface. EP 2 796 652 discloses a butt weld of the frame directly to a base profile, but without using a mitered connector. EP 4 245 957 A1 discloses a detachable screw connection which, by its very nature, creates a joint penetrating the sealing plane. Solutions such as the inset threshold according to EP 3 363 979 B1 require a trimmed frame and also cover only a portion of the profile depth.

[0007] In summary, none of the known solutions creates a fully welded, tight and stable corner joint for a frame that extends over the entire depth of construction and seamlessly integrates a lower thermoplastic frame profile into a single, homogeneous weld seam.

[0008] The invention is therefore based on the objective of creating a threshold arrangement that overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art and can ensure high tightness and stability over the entire installation depth of the frame without complicating the manufacturing processes.

[0009] This problem is solved by a threshold arrangement with the features of claim 1. Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0010] The threshold arrangement according to the invention for a door or window frame initially comprises a horizontal threshold profile. It further comprises at least one vertical thermoplastic frame profile having a first mitered surface at its lower end. In addition, at least one thermoplastic threshold connector is provided, which is arranged at a longitudinal end of the threshold profile and has a second mitered surface corresponding to the first mitered surface. According to the invention, a lower thermoplastic frame profile is provided on which the threshold profile is arranged and which has a third mitered surface at its end, which is aligned with the second mitered surface of the threshold connector. Furthermore, a widening profile is provided on a lower inner side of the vertical frame profile, which has a fourth mitered surface at its lower end, which is aligned with the first mitered surface of the vertical frame profile.Crucially, the threshold connector, the lower frame profile, the vertical frame profile, and the extension profile are welded together along their respective aligned mitered surfaces to form a single, continuous corner joint. Welding all four of these thermoplastic profile elements into a single, continuous, and monolithic corner joint creates a permanently fluid-tight and highly stable, trough-like structure that reliably prevents leaks in the critical corner area and ensures a flush sealing surface made of a uniform material. Compared to purely mechanically joined corners, this also achieves significantly higher torsional rigidity and fatigue strength, guaranteeing long-lasting and low-maintenance operation of the entire door or window assembly.

[0011] In the context of this invention, the term "corresponding mitered surface" means more than just a simple mitered surface. It describes a cut surface whose geometry, particularly its angle, and its overall contour are precisely matched to a mating surface such that both surfaces form a continuous, flat, and perfectly aligned unit upon contact. This precise fit is the essential prerequisite for creating a homogeneous, material-bonded, and high-strength weld across the entire contact zone, ultimately resulting in the monolithic and fluid-tight corner joint.

[0012] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a continuous cover strip is provided which at least partially covers the threshold profile arranged on the lower frame profile and the extension profile from above. This results in an aesthetically pleasing and clean finish and protects the underlying structure from mechanical damage and weathering.

[0013] Preferably, the cover strip and / or the threshold profile are made of metal, especially aluminum. This ensures high durability, abrasion resistance, and a high-quality appearance in the heavily used threshold area.

[0014] Furthermore, it may be provided that a first sealing plate is arranged between the sleeper profile and the sleeper connector, and / or a second sealing plate is arranged between the vertical frame profile and the widening profile. These sealing plates improve the sealing at the butt joints of the unwelded components before the welding process and compensate for any tolerances.

[0015] It is particularly advantageous if the first sealing plate and / or the second sealing plate are made of an elastic material, especially an elastomer, silicone, or a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). These materials guarantee permanent elasticity and a reliable sealing function.

[0016] In a further embodiment, the welded corner joint formed from the vertical frame profile, the extension profile, the lower frame profile, and the sill connector extends essentially over the entire construction depth of the resulting frame. This creates a continuous and stable connection that, unlike in the prior art, does not only encompass partial areas of the profile depth.

[0017] In a further embodiment, the outer surfaces of the vertical frame profile and the lower frame profile form a continuous, closed frame back. This creates an uninterrupted, flat surface that significantly simplifies and enhances the safety of applying sealing tapes and insulation materials for building waterproofing.

[0018] Preferably, the sleeper connector, the vertical frame profile, the lower frame profile, and the extension profile are made of the same or a compatible, weldable thermoplastic material, in particular PVC. This ensures an optimal, homogeneous, and high-strength welded joint.

[0019] In a further advantageous embodiment, the widening profile engages with a corresponding contour of the vertical frame profile at a contact surface. This positive fit facilitates assembly and ensures precise, repeatable positioning of the components relative to each other.

[0020] Similarly, the sleeper connector can have at least one guide projection that engages positively in a corresponding recess in the sleeper profile. This also serves to ensure the precise and stable alignment of the components before the welding process.

[0021] Finally, it may be provided that the sleeper connector is pre-assembled to the sleeper profile and / or the extension profile to the vertical frame profile using mechanical fasteners, in particular screws. This secures the assemblies for transport and handling until the final welding process.

[0022] The present description further discloses a method for manufacturing such a sleeper assembly. This method comprises the steps of providing a horizontal sleeper profile, a vertical thermoplastic frame profile, a lower thermoplastic frame profile, and a thermoplastic extension profile, each having mitered surfaces at their ends to be joined. A thermoplastic sleeper connector is then positioned at one longitudinal end of the sleeper profile. The components are subsequently positioned such that the mitered surfaces of the sleeper connector and the lower frame profile are aligned, and that the mitered surfaces of the vertical frame profile and the extension profile are also aligned. Finally, these aligned mitered surfaces are simultaneously welded to form a single, continuous corner joint.

[0023] In an advantageous embodiment of the method, the sleeper connectors are mechanically attached to the sleeper profile and / or the widening profile is mechanically attached to the vertical frame profile before welding.

[0024] The invention also relates to a frame for a door or window. Such a frame is characterized in that it is formed from several profile sections welded together, wherein its lower region is designed as a threshold arrangement according to one of the preceding claims.

[0025] Finally, the invention also relates to a complete door or window system. Such a system is characterized in that it has a fixed frame according to the above description and at least one door or window sash movably arranged on this frame.

[0026] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments and the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals are used throughout the figures for identical or equivalently acting elements. The figures show: Fig. 1 a cross-section through an exemplary composite sleeper profile; Fig. 2 two perspective views of a threshold connector; Fig. 3 two perspective views of a widening profile; Fig. 4 a perspective view of a sealing plate for the sleeper connector; Fig. 5 a perspective view of a sealing plate for the widening profile; Fig. 6 an exploded view of the essential individual components of the arrangement according to the invention; Fig. 7 a representation of the assembly of a horizontal assembly consisting of lower frame profile, sill profile, sill connectors and sealing plates, including a detail view X1; Fig. 8 a representation of the assembly of a vertical assembly consisting of the two vertical frame profiles and the extension profiles, including a detail view X2; Fig. 9 a perspective view of the finally assembled and welded sleeper assembly; and Fig. 10 A view of the final frame with the cover strip attached.

[0027] The in the Fig. The individual components shown in Figures 1 to 5 are used together with known hollow chamber profile elements, which are used as vertical or lower horizontal frame profiles, to form the threshold arrangement according to the invention. Fig. 6 ff. to produce.

[0028] Fig. Figure 1 shows a cross-section through an exemplary composite horizontal threshold profile 1, typically made of metal, such as aluminium. It has a maximum step height H, which is preferably 20 mm or less to meet the requirements for barrier-free construction.

[0029] Fig. Figure 2 shows two perspective views of the thermoplastic sleeper connector 2. This connector has a fastening section 2a for connection to the sleeper profile 1, which is equipped with guide projections 2b (not all labeled). Crucially, the (second) mitered surface 2c formed on the sleeper connector 2 is precisely machined to allow for a welded joint. The mitered surface 2c is angled relative to the connecting section 2a.

[0030] Fig. Figure 3 shows two perspective views of the thermoplastic extension profile 3. It has a (fourth) mitered surface 3a on its lower end face. A corresponding contour is formed on its contact surface 3b, which faces the vertical frame profile (not shown here), enabling a positive fit with an outer contour of the frame profile (more details below). Within this contact surface 3b is a rectangular recess 3c for receiving a suitable sealing plate (see Figure 3). Fig. 5), and reference numeral 3d denotes a bore for receiving a suitable fastener (screw). The mitered surface 3a is inclined to the contact surface 3b.

[0031] Fig. Figure 4 shows the first sealing plate 4, which is intended to be placed between the threshold profile 1 and the threshold connector 2. It preferably engages in a form-fitting manner with structures on the fastening section 2a of the threshold connector 2 (see Figure 4). Fig. 2) together.

[0032] Fig. Figure 5 shows the second, flat cuboid sealing plate 5, which is arranged between the vertical frame profile and the widening profile 3 (see Figure 5). Fig. 3) and specifically for the arrangement in recess 3c (see Fig. 3) is provided. It features, in particular, an opening 5a through which the aforementioned fastening element can be inserted. Both sealing plates 4, 5 preferably consist of an elastic material, such as TPE.

[0033] Fig. Figure 6 shows an exploded view of the threshold arrangement 6 according to the invention. Particularly visible are the two vertical frame profiles 7 with their terminal (first) mitered surfaces 7a, the widening profiles 3 to be arranged on the inside of the vertical frame profiles 7 with their (fourth) mitered surfaces 3a, which are to be arranged on the vertical frame profiles 7 in such a way that a first mitered surface 7a and a fourth mitered surface 3a form a continuous composite mitered surface (cf. Fig. 8), as well as the associated second sealing plates 5. Also shown is the lower, horizontal frame profile 8 with its terminal third mitered surfaces 8a, the threshold profile 1 and the two threshold connectors 2 with their second mitered surfaces 2c, as well as the associated first sealing plates 4. Reference numeral 12 denotes a cover strip, preferably also made of aluminum.

[0034] The assembly of the sleeper arrangement 6, which preferably culminates in an automated welding process, or a corresponding method for its manufacture, is now described using the Fig. Sections 7 to 10 are explained in more detail. For the sake of clarity, not all elements are explicitly named again there (see sections 7 to 10 if needed). Fig. 6):

[0035] Fig. Figure 7 shows the formation of a horizontal assembly. First, the threshold profile 1 is placed lengthwise onto the lower frame profile 8 and, if necessary, fastened to it. Then, the first sealing plates 4 are attached (see Figure 7). Fig. 4, Fig. 6) placed against the lateral end faces of the sleeper profile 1 and then the sleeper connectors 2 were attached. Detail view X1 illustrates the assembly of the sleeper profile 1 with a sleeper connector 2, whereby the guide projections 2b (see Fig. 2) The connector 2 engages positively in corresponding recesses of the sleeper profile 1. This horizontal assembly is fixed by mechanical fasteners not visible in the illustration. This causes the second mitered surface 2c of the sleeper connector 2 and the third mitered surface 8a of the lower frame profile 8 to align, forming a continuous, flat, inclined weld surface.

[0036] Fig. Figure 8 illustrates the formation of another vertical assembly. Detail view X2 shows the assembly of one of the two vertical frame profiles 7 with an associated extension profile 3. The second sealing plate 5 (see Figure 8) Fig. 5, Fig. 6) was placed between the two aforementioned profiles 3 and 7, or pre-attached to the extension profile 3, before the extension profile 3 was positioned on the lower inside of the frame profile 7 and fixed there by means of screws (not shown). The already mentioned corresponding contour on the contact surface 3b of the extension profile 3 engages positively with a counter contour 7b of the frame profile 7. This arrangement ensures that the first mitered surface 7a of the vertical frame profile 7 and the fourth mitered surface 3a of the extension profile 3 are perfectly aligned and form a continuous, flat, inclined weld surface. This process is carried out accordingly for both vertical frame profiles 7.

[0037] Fig. Figure 9 shows the result of the final welding process. The vertical assembly (consisting of two pre-assembled units according to...) Fig. 8) and the horizontal assembly (according to Fig. 7) are joined together in a welding machine (not shown here). The aligned mitered surfaces of the vertical assembly are brought into contact with the aligned mitered surfaces of the horizontal assembly and welded to form a single, continuous, and monolithic corner joint 9. This creates a frame 10 that includes the threshold arrangement 6 according to the invention. This welded structure extends over the entire installation depth T of the frame 10. The outer surfaces of the vertical frame profiles 7 and the lower frame profile 8 form a continuous, closed frame back 11, which facilitates subsequent waterproofing of the structure.

[0038] Naturally, a complete frame 10 also includes an upper, horizontal profile section that connects the two vertical frame profiles 7. Since this upper section is not relevant to the inventive lower corner connection or threshold arrangement 6 described here, and its design is familiar to those skilled in the art, a detailed illustration and description have been omitted.

[0039] Fig. Figure 10 shows the finished frame 10, which can be part of a door or window system. A continuous cover strip 12 is then attached and fixed to the threshold assembly 6. This cover strip at least partially conceals the threshold profile 1 and the extension profile 3 from above, ensuring a clean, mechanically robust, and aesthetically pleasing finish. The resulting frame 10 is ready to receive a door or window sash (not shown). QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 10 2008 015 989 B3

[0005] EP 2 469 003 B1

[0006] EP 2 796 652

[0006] EP 4 245 957 A1

[0006] EP 3 363 979 B1

[0006]

Claims

[1] Threshold arrangement (6) for a door or window frame, comprising: a horizontal threshold profile (1); at least one vertical thermoplastic frame profile (7) having a first mitered surface (7a) at its lower end; and at least one thermoplastic sleeper connector (2) which is arranged at a longitudinal end of the sleeper profile (1) and has a second miter surface (2c) corresponding to the first miter surface (7a), characterized by , that a lower, thermoplastic frame profile (8) is provided on which the sleeper profile (1) is arranged and which has a third mitered surface (8a) at its end, which is aligned with the second mitered surface (2c) of the sleeper connector (2), a widening profile (3) is provided on a lower inside side of the vertical frame profile (7), which has a fourth mitered surface (3a) at its lower end, which is aligned with the first mitered surface (7a) of the vertical frame profile (7), and that the threshold connector (2), the lower frame profile (8), the vertical frame profile (7) and the widening profile (3) are welded together along their respective aligned mitered surfaces (2c, 3a, 7a, 8a) to form a single, continuous corner connection (9). [2] Arrangement (6) according to claim 1, characterized by , that a continuous cover strip (12) is provided which covers the threshold profile (1) arranged on the lower frame profile (8) and the widening profile (3) from above. [3] Arrangement (6) according to claim 2, characterized by , that the cover strip (12) and / or the threshold profile (1) are made of metal, in particular of aluminium. [4] Arrangement (6) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that a first sealing plate (4) is arranged between the threshold profile (1) and the threshold connector (2) and / or a second sealing plate (5) is arranged between the vertical frame profile (7) and the widening profile (3). [5] Arrangement (6) according to claim 4, characterized by that the first sealing plate (4) and / or the second sealing plate (5) are made of an elastic material, in particular an elastomer, silicone or a thermoplastic elastomer, TPE. [6] Arrangement (6) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the welded corner connection (9) formed from the vertical frame profile (7), the widening profile (3), the lower frame profile (8) and the threshold connector (2) extends essentially over the entire construction depth (T) of the frame (10). [7] Arrangement (6) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the outer sides of the vertical frame profile (7) and the lower frame profile (8) form a continuous, closed frame back (11). [8] Arrangement (6) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the threshold connector (2), the vertical frame profile (7), the lower frame profile (8) and the widening profile (3) are made of the same or of a thermoplastic material that can be welded together in a compatible manner, in particular PVC. [9] Arrangement (6) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the widening profile (3) interacts in a form-fitting manner with a corresponding contour (7b) of the vertical frame profile (7) at a contact surface (3b). [10] Arrangement (6) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the sleeper connector (2) has at least one guide projection (2b) which engages positively in a corresponding recess of the sleeper profile (1). [11] Arrangement (6) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the threshold connector (2) is pre-assembled with the threshold profile (1) and / or the widening profile (3) with the vertical frame profile (7) by means of mechanical fasteners, in particular screws. [12] Frame (10) for a door or window, formed from several interconnected profile sections, characterized by , that in its lower region it is designed as a threshold arrangement (6) according to one of claims 1 to 11. [13] Door or window system comprising a frame (10) according to claim 12 and at least one door or window sash movably arranged in the frame (10).

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