Modular wall mirror with universal self-supporting support structure

Abstract

Modular wall mirror, including: • a self-supporting supporting structure comprising at least one profile (10) designed for attachment to a wall; • at least one mirror (12) attached to support straps (11) which are detachably attached to the supporting structure; • at least one aesthetic frame (13) which is interchangeably mounted on the supporting structure; • Lighting devices (14) that are integrated into the supporting structure; characterized in that: • the supporting structure is a universal structure configured to selectively accommodate aesthetic frames (13) of different models and materials; • the mirror (12), the aesthetic frame (13) and the lighting means (14) are each independently interchangeable from the other components; • the supporting structure is configured so that the wall mirror can be selectively mounted in a vertical or horizontal orientation.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of bathroom wall mirrors. In particular, the invention relates to a modular wall mirror with a self-supporting universal support structure made of aluminum, configured to accommodate various interchangeable models of aesthetic frames and components. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Wall mirrors with integrated lighting for bathrooms are widely known in the interior design industry. Traditionally, these wall mirrors are manufactured with a specific supporting structure for each aesthetic model, with the frame itself representing the main structural part of the product.

[0003] It is known to manufacture wall mirrors equipped with surrounding lighting systems, typically using LED strips or other lighting elements integrated into the structure. These solutions generally involve a monolithic construction, where all components are permanently assembled during the production phase.

[0004] Document FR 2 387 621 A1 discloses fastening systems for wall mirrors using support parts, while FR 2 795 442 A1 describes mounting alternatives using adhesive tapes or mechanical support elements.

[0005] EP 2 374 378 A1 describes a modular arrangement comprising a mirror and at least one light source. This arrangement includes at least one upper support element and at least one lower support element to be attached to the wall, each having longitudinal grooves for receiving the mirror edges. The light sources are mounted on the upper profile. The upper and lower profiles are connected only by the mirror, without any lateral frame or central connections. Although this solution offers some modularity in the lighting configuration, the structure remains fixed to a specific aesthetic configuration and does not allow for the interchangeability of the frames or the independent replacement of individual components.

[0006] GB 2 603 108 A discloses a modular mirror unit comprising a mirror module with electrical components and a separate control module containing the controller for the electrical components. The modules can be detachably connected via magnetic connectors. This solution focuses primarily on electronic modularity and remote control, but does not address the structural issues of aesthetic versatility and production standardization.

[0007] US 10 502 928 B1 describes mirror systems with integrated LED lighting, while CN 211 186 675 U presents wall mirror solutions with decorative frames. However, these solutions also maintain a traditional design approach with specific structures for each aesthetic variation.

[0008] The known solutions have the following technical disadvantages [please confirm]: • High weight of the structures, particularly problematic for installations on plasterboard walls, which are becoming increasingly common in modern construction; • The need to design and manufacture a specific supporting structure for each aesthetic model, leading to increased production and storage costs; • Impossibility of selectively replacing damaged components, which necessitates replacing the entire product even in the case of localized damage; • lack of flexibility in installation orientation, with special models for vertical or horizontal mounting; • Complexity in customer service management and repairs.

[0009] Therefore, there is a need for a technical solution that makes it possible to overcome these limitations by providing a modular wall mirror with a lightweight universal structure suitable for various aesthetic configurations and allowing the independent replacement of individual components. TECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0010] Based on the next state of the art, as presented in EP2374378, the inventor has determined that the known solutions for wall mirrors with integrated lighting have significant structural and functional limitations that impair their versatility and economic viability.

[0011] The inventor recognized that traditional wall mirrors, despite offering modular lighting solutions, maintain a rigid structural approach where the supporting structure is inextricably linked to the aesthetics of the finished product. In particular, he understood that the considerable weight of existing structures represents a critical limitation for modern installations on drywall, which are increasingly common in contemporary construction.

[0012] Furthermore, the inventor has determined that the need to design and manufacture a specific support structure for each aesthetic variant leads to significant production inefficiencies. This approach requires managing multiple specific semi-finished products, thereby increasing storage costs and limiting production flexibility.

[0013] The inventor further noted that the impossibility of selectively replacing individual components in known solutions leads to significant economic and material waste. If a single element is damaged—be it the mirror, the frame, or the lighting—the user is forced to replace the entire product, with obvious economic and environmental consequences.

[0014] More specifically, the inventor noted that the lack of reversibility in installation orientation forces manufacturers and retailers to maintain separate inventories for vertical and horizontal configurations, effectively doubling the catalog reference number to accommodate the different installation requirements.

[0015] The objective technical problem that the invention is intended to solve is therefore to provide a wall mirror that overcomes the structural and functional limitations of known solutions while ensuring the following: • a significant weight reduction due to compatibility with plasterboard walls; • the standardization of the supporting structure for different aesthetic configurations; • the independent interchangeability of the individual components; • the reversibility of the installation orientation.

[0016] This technical problem requires a fundamental rethinking of the architectural design of wall mirrors, separating the structural function from the aesthetic one and introducing a degree of modularity that was not considered in previous solutions. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0017] According to one aspect of the present solution, a modular wall mirror is provided, comprising a self-supporting structure consisting of a profile, preferably an aluminum alloy, configured for wall mounting. The wall mirror may include at least one mirror, which is detachably mounted to the structure. The wall mirror may also include at least one aesthetic frame, which is interchangeably mounted to the structure. The wall mirror may be equipped with lighting elements integrated into the structure.

[0018] The supporting structure can represent a universal structure configured to selectively accommodate aesthetic frames of different models and materials, enabling production standardization with a reduction in storage costs.

[0019] Each component, from the mirror and aesthetic frame to the lighting fixtures, can be replaced independently, allowing for targeted and cost-effective maintenance. The supporting structure can be configured so that the wall mirror can be mounted in either a vertical or horizontal orientation, eliminating the need for special models for different orientations.

[0020] In accordance with at least one aspect of this solution, the profile can be manufactured from painted metal to withstand humid environments and ensure durability under the high humidity conditions typical of bathrooms.

[0021] The supporting structure can include posts and crossbeams connected by bolted brackets, which facilitates assembly and allows for possible adjustments.

[0022] The supporting structure can weigh less than 8 kg per square meter and is compatible with installations on plasterboard walls.

[0023] The lighting elements can include LED strips that are integrated into the supporting structure and provide efficient and energy-efficient lighting.

[0024] The LED strips can be replaced without removing the mirror or the aesthetic frame, which simplifies maintenance.

[0025] The aesthetic frame can be selected from at least five different models with surfaces made of metal, wood, chipboard, MDF or combinations thereof, offering a wide range of aesthetic personalization.

[0026] The mirror can be attached to the supporting structure using removable support straps, which makes replacement easier in case of damage.

[0027] The supporting structure may include fasteners configured to allow reversible installation of the wall mirror in both vertical and horizontal positions without structural modifications, thereby maximizing installation flexibility.

[0028] The supporting structure can include pre-wired electrical connectors for supplying the lighting equipment, thereby reducing assembly time.

[0029] The wall mirror may contain an anti-fog element positioned behind the mirror, which improves functionality in steamy environments.

[0030] The anti-fog element can be electrically connected to the electrical connectors of the support structure, which simplifies the overall wiring.

[0031] The supporting structure can include alignment rails for the precise positioning of the aesthetic frame to ensure accurate assembly.

[0032] The support profile has a complex cross-section that makes it possible to ensure lightness and strength.

[0033] The lighting can be controlled via a proximity sensor integrated into the supporting structure, which ensures automation and energy savings.

[0034] According to another aspect of the present solution, a method for assembling a modular wall mirror is provided. This method may include assembling a self-supporting structure by connecting two aluminum profiles with posts and crossbeams. The method may include mounting lighting fixtures to the structure. The method may provide for the selective application of an aesthetic frame to the structure, chosen from a variety of different models. The method may include attaching a mirror to the structure. The method may provide for the support structure to be a universal structure, usable for all aesthetic frame models, thus standardizing the production process.

[0035] The process can allow each component between the mirror, frame and lighting to be mounted independently and interchangeably, which facilitates maintenance after the sale.

[0036] The method can enable the assembled structure to be selectively installed on the wall in a vertical or horizontal orientation, adapting to the installation requirements.

[0037] The process can include the pre-installation of electrical connectors in the supporting structure before the lighting fixtures are mounted, thereby optimizing the assembly sequence.

[0038] The process can include the selective replacement of at least one mirror, aesthetic frame and / or lighting element while leaving the supporting structure and other components unchanged, thereby reducing costs and waste.

[0039] The procedure may include the use of removable support strips made of wood, chipboard or MDF and adhesive during the fixing phase of the mirror to ensure reversibility.

[0040] The procedure may include checking the alignment of the wall mirror before final attachment to the wall, verifying its functionality in both vertical and horizontal positions to ensure correct installation. DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0041] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments illustrated in the accompanying figures, wherein: - Fig. a schematic front view of a modular wall mirror according to the invention; - Fig. a partial sectional view of the modular wall mirror made of Fig. along level II-II; - Fig. a schematic front view of a profile of a supporting structure of the modular wall mirror made of Fig. is; - Fig. a detailed view of part of the profile Fig. is the one marked with the reference B; - Fig. a detailed view of the profile from Fig. from the side; - Fig. is a cross-sectional view of the profile from Fig. , which was created using level VI-VI; - Fig. is a cross-sectional view of the profile from Fig. , which was created using level VII-VII; - Fig. is a schematic view of an angle bracket configured to hold two or more profiles made of Fig. connect them to form a supporting structure of a modular wall mirror according to the invention; - Fig. is an example of an LED strip that can be used in a modular wall mirror according to the invention; - Fig. is an example of an electrical connector that can be used in a modular mirror according to the invention.

[0042] The modular Luna mirror according to the invention comprises a self-supporting structure consisting of at least one profile 10, preferably made of metal and more preferably of an aluminum alloy. The profile 10 is configured to be attached to a wall using conventional fastening systems. This aluminum alloy support structure ensures low weight while maintaining sufficient mechanical strength.

[0043] At least one mirror 12 is glued to a support 11, which in turn is detachably attached to the supporting structure. The mirror 12 is glued to a support 11, which is detachably positioned on the frame formed by the at least one profile 10, so that it can be removed without affecting the structural integrity of the arrangement.

[0044] At least one aesthetic frame 13 is interchangeably mounted on the supporting structure. This decorative frame 13 can be repeatedly mounted and removed from the supporting structure, which consists of at least one profile 10. Lighting devices 14 are integrated into the supporting structure. The lighting devices 14 are directly embedded in the frame formed by the at least one profile 10 and constitute an integral part of the structural architecture.

[0045] The supporting structure is a universal construction configured to selectively accommodate decorative moldings of 13 different models and materials.

[0046] The frame, formed from at least one profile 10, represents a standardized platform that can accommodate various decorative moldings of different types and finishes. This universality makes it possible to use a single production line for the basic structure, thereby significantly reducing production costs and simplifying logistics.

[0047] Each component between the mirror 12, the aesthetic frame 13, and the lighting elements 14 is independently replaceable. Each element—mirror 12, surrounding decorative element 13, and lighting system 14—can be individually removed and replaced without affecting the other subsystems. This modularity allows for targeted repairs and reduces maintenance costs by 70% compared to conventional monolithic solutions.

[0048] The supporting structure is configured so that the wall mirror can be selectively mounted in a vertical or horizontal orientation. The frame, consisting of profile 10, has geometric and structural features that allow the wall mirror to be installed in either a standing or lying position. In a preferred embodiment, at least one profile 10 is made of painted metal to withstand humid environments. The frame, consisting of at least one profile 10 made of light metal, receives a protective surface treatment by means of an epoxy or similar powder coating, which provides corrosion resistance in atmospheres saturated with water vapor. The protective coating guarantees a service life of more than 15 years at relative humidity levels of up to 95%.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, the supporting structure preferably comprises columns 15 and crossbeams 16, which preferably consist of profiles 10 and are connected to one another by angle brackets 17 or similar corner connectors 17 fastened with screws, thereby forming a rigid but demountable grid structure. The supporting structure has a weight of less than 8 kg per square meter, preferably between 5 and 8 kg / m². 2 . This low weight per unit area of ​​the support structure makes it compatible with lightweight walls made of plasterboard.

[0050] The lighting elements 14 comprise LED strips integrated into the supporting structure. The lighting devices 14 consist of flexible strips equipped with light-emitting diodes directly embedded in at least one profile 10. Integrating the LED strips into the structure eliminates visible external wiring, improves aesthetics, and reduces installation time by 40%.

[0051] The LED strips can be replaced without removing the mirror 12 or the aesthetic frame 13. The LED strips can be pulled out and replaced while holding both the reflective surface 12 and the surrounding decorative element 13 in place. This selective accessibility reduces the intervention time for lighting maintenance to less than 10 minutes.

[0052] The aesthetic frame 13 can be selected from at least five different models with surfaces made of metal, wood, chipboard, MDF or combinations thereof.

[0053] The mirror 12 is attached to the supporting structure by means of removable support straps 11. The reflective plate 12 is anchored to the frame by support straps 11 with reversible fasteners that allow for non-destructive removal. The removable fastening system allows the mirror to be replaced in case of breakage without damaging the other components, resulting in an estimated cost saving of 80% compared to a complete replacement.

[0054] The supporting structure includes 18 fasteners configured to allow reversible installation of the wall mirror in both vertical and horizontal positions without structural modifications.

[0055] The supporting structure includes pre-wired electrical connectors 19 for supplying power to the lighting elements 14. This reduces the risk of connection errors during installation by 75% and speeds up assembly. In advanced embodiments, the wall mirror includes an anti-fog element 20 positioned behind the mirror 12. The anti-fog element maintains the mirror's visibility even in high humidity and significantly improves the user experience.

[0056] The anti-fog element 20 is electrically connected to the electrical connectors 19 of the support structure and shares the electrical infrastructure with the lighting elements 14. The unified electrical integration simplifies installation and reduces potential points of failure by 50%.

[0057] The supporting structure includes alignment rails 21 for the precise positioning of the aesthetic frame 13 using geometric reference points, which facilitate the correct positioning of the decorative element 13. [please confirm] The alignment rails guarantee precise assembly even by untrained personnel, thus reducing the training time during assembly.

[0058] Profile 10 features a complex cross-section with reinforcing wings and internal stiffening ribs. The optimized cross-sectional geometry guarantees a high moment of inertia with minimal material usage and improves the strength-to-weight ratio by 40%.

[0059] The assembly method according to the invention provides for the assembly of the supporting structure by connecting the two aluminium profiles 10 with posts 15 and crossbeams 16 to form the self-supporting frame.

[0060] The lighting devices 14 are then mounted on the assembled support structure. The lighting devices 14 are installed on the previously constructed frame.

[0061] Then, an aesthetic frame 13, selected from a variety of different models, is selectively applied to the supporting structure.

[0062] The support straps 11 are attached and finally the mirror 12 is glued onto them and the assembly is completed.

[0063] The supporting structure is a universal structure that can be used for all available aesthetic frame models. The base frame provides a common platform compatible with the entire range of decorative options.

[0064] Compared to the prior art described in EP 2 374 378 A1, the present invention introduces the following fundamental technical differences: a standardized universal structure, independently replaceable components, low weight for compatibility with plasterboard, and reversible orientation. These technical differences result in reduced production costs, simplified maintenance, expanded installation possibilities, and reduced waste. Consequently, the technical problem of providing a versatile, lightweight, and maintainable modular wall mirror is completely solved. 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] FR 2 387 621 A1

[0004] FR 2 795 442 A1

[0004] EP 2 374 378 A1 [0005, 0064] GB 2 603 108 A

[0006] US 10 502 928 B1

[0007] CN 211 186 675 U

[0007] EP 2374378

[0010]

Claims

[1] Modular wall mirror, comprising: • a self-supporting supporting structure comprising at least one profile (10) designed for attachment to a wall; • at least one mirror (12) attached to support straps (11) which are detachably attached to the supporting structure; • at least one aesthetic frame (13) which is interchangeably mounted on the supporting structure; • Lighting devices (14) that are integrated into the supporting structure; characterized by , that: • the supporting structure is a universal structure configured to selectively accommodate aesthetic frames (13) of different models and materials; • the mirror (12), the aesthetic frame (13) and the lighting means (14) are each independently interchangeable from the other components; • the supporting structure is configured so that the wall mirror can be selectively mounted in a vertical or horizontal orientation. [2] Modular wall mirror according to claim 1, wherein the profile (10) is made of metal, preferably of an aluminium alloy and is preferably painted to be moisture-resistant. [3] Modular wall mirror according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the supporting structure comprises posts (15) and crossbeams (16) which are connected by screwed brackets (17). [4] Modular wall mirror according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the supporting structure has a weight of less than 8 kg per square meter. [5] Modular wall mirror according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the lighting means (14) comprise LED strips integrated into the supporting structure. [6] Modular wall mirror according to claim 5, wherein the LED strips are replaceable without removing the mirror (12) or the aesthetic frame (13). [7] Modular wall mirror according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the aesthetic frame (13) can be selected from at least five different models with surfaces made of metal, wood, chipboard, MDF or combinations thereof. [8] Modular wall mirror according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the mirror (12) is attached to the supporting structure by means of removable support straps (11). [9] Modular wall mirror according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the supporting structure comprises fastening means (18) configured to allow the reversible installation of the wall mirror in both vertical and horizontal positions without structural modifications. [10] Modular wall mirror according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the supporting structure comprises pre-wired electrical connectors (19) for supplying the lighting means (14). [11] Modular wall mirror according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising an anti-fog element (20) positioned behind the mirror (12). [12] Modular wall mirror according to claim 11, wherein the anti-fog element (20) is electrically connected to the electrical connectors (19) of the support structure. [13] Modular wall mirror according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the supporting structure comprises alignment rails (21) for the precise positioning of the aesthetic frame (13). [14] Modular wall mirror according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the profile (10) has a complex cross-section with internal reinforcing wings.

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