Inspectable cladding arrangement for sanitary facilities such as bathtubs and the like.

Abstract

Inspectable cladding arrangement for sanitary facilities and especially bathtubs, comprising: • at least one non-load-bearing finishing panel (10); • a load-bearing structure (12) provided with anchoring elements (13); • Removable fasteners (14) configured to connect the panel (10) to the supporting structure (12); characterized in that the fastening means (14) comprise at least one connecting plate (20) which is substantially permanently attached to a rear surface (40) of the panel (10), and at least one coupling element (22) firmly connected to this plate (20), wherein the coupling element (22) is configured to couple removably with the anchoring elements (13) of the supporting structure (12) so that it is completely hidden from view after installation, and in that each individual panel (10) can be removed and replaced without having to remove adjacent panels.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The present invention lies in the technical field of cladding for sanitary installations, in particular removable paneling systems for bathtubs. The invention is applicable in the field of bathroom furnishings and domestic and commercial water installations, especially for the production of inspectable, aesthetically pleasing cladding that allows access to the underlying technical equipment while maintaining the aesthetic integrity of the installation. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Various solutions exist for the construction of paneling around bathtubs. Conventional installations typically involve solid cover structures that completely enclose the bathtub and its associated fixtures.

[0003] Document US8359682B2 describes a support structure for bathtubs, comprising fully removable decorative panels. This solution uses a system of vertical posts and horizontal crossbeams with adjustable connectors equipped with mounting heads for removable magnetic attachment. The panels feature magnetic inserts attached to their inner surface to allow connection with the support structure. This configuration allows the panels to be removed for access to the area beneath the bathtub.

[0004] Document US3283340A describes a paneling system for bathtubs with a removable front panel. The panel is joined by clips that slide into openings along a serrated lower ridge on the edge of the bathtub. The solution allows access to the drainage system for adjustments or maintenance by removing the front panel. The system also includes a lower protective plate that is removable through slots that hook onto support pins.

[0005] Document DE20211005U1 presents a solution specifically designed for whirlpools, comprising a surrounding rigid foam cladding with closable maintenance openings. The openings are defined by a rigid foam frame and closed by removable cover elements attached to the outside of the frame. To improve accessibility to the installed whirlpool technology, the maintenance openings are enlarged. The solution includes vertical posts whose position can be changed after removing the cover element to further enlarge the access opening.

[0006] In residential and hotel buildings, the practice of creating paneling with masonry and tiles is widespread, guaranteeing durability and impermeability, but making maintenance work on the underlying systems particularly complex.

[0007] There are also solutions with plastic or composite panels that are attached with visible screws or pressure-mounting systems, which allow for easy removal but can detract from the appearance of the installation with visible fasteners.

[0008] In the field of high-end bathroom furniture, particular attention is paid to the aesthetic continuity of the surfaces and the absence of visible technical elements, which requires increasingly sophisticated and discreet fastening solutions. TECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0009] The inventor has determined that the known solutions for cladding bathtubs have significant limitations in terms of accessibility for maintenance and versatility of use.

[0010] In particular, the inventor noted that conventional cladding systems generally only allow the inspection of drains and technical components in the event of hydraulic problems by disassembling the entire bathtub cover structure. This limitation generally means that both a plumber and a furniture fitter must be involved for any maintenance work, resulting in increased intervention time and costs.

[0011] More precisely, the inventor understood that in the event of even partial damage to the cover structure, conventional solutions require the complete replacement of the entire cladding, leading to material waste and high costs for the end user.

[0012] The inventor also noted that existing solutions with removable panels often have visible fastening systems that detract from the appearance of the installation, or they use hanging mechanisms that require certain panel thicknesses and / or shapes, limiting design options.

[0013] In particular, he understood that the known magnetic systems, although they allow for removal, do not guarantee accurate and repeatable positioning of the panels and can lead to misalignments after repeated assembly and disassembly processes.

[0014] More precisely, the inventor recognized that the lack of solutions that allow for the replacement of individual panels leads to significant logistical inefficiencies as well as considerable costs for partial replacements.

[0015] In particular, he understood that the impossibility of individually changing the appearance of the panels prevented partial adjustments or targeted aesthetic upgrades, leading to complete interventions even for limited changes. More precisely, the inventor noted that solutions using load-bearing panels required robust and heavy structures, complicating installation and increasing material costs, whereas it would be preferable to separate the structural function from the aesthetic function in order to optimize both aspects.

[0016] The inventor also recognized that in humid environments such as bathrooms, conventional fastening systems with screws or metal clips can be susceptible to corrosion, which impairs the functionality of the removal system over time.

[0017] In particular, he understood that the lack of completely concealed yet easily accessible mounting systems represents a significant limitation for high-end installations where aesthetics are a fundamental requirement.

[0018] Furthermore, the inventor understood that, for aesthetic reasons, the outer panels can often be very heavy, and that the lightweight hanging elements currently available on the market are not always suitable for providing stable and permanent support to the aforementioned panels while simultaneously ensuring easy removal for possible inspections of the hydraulic components within the overall structure or for replacing the panels themselves. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0019] The problems mentioned above are at least partially solved according to a first aspect of the invention by an inspectable cladding arrangement for sanitary installations, in particular for bathtubs, which is manufactured in accordance with at least some of the features that are the subject of the common claims.

[0020] In one embodiment of the present solution, an inspectable cladding arrangement for bathtubs comprises at least one preferably non-load-bearing finishing panel. Preferably, the arrangement also includes a load-bearing structure, preferably provided with anchoring elements.

[0021] The arrangement is preferably equipped with removable fasteners configured to connect the panel to the supporting structure. Such fasteners preferably comprise at least one connecting plate, which is preferably permanently attached to a rear surface of the panel to ensure a connection that lasts over time.

[0022] The essentially permanent attachment of the connecting plate to the panel can be achieved by mechanical fastening, for example by screws or bolts, or by a structural adhesive, thus eliminating the need to drill into the panel.

[0023] The fastening elements preferably also include a coupling element, which is preferably firmly connected to the connecting plate and is preferably configured to couple removably with one or more of the anchoring elements of the supporting structure, thereby enabling quick maintenance work.

[0024] In some embodiments, the coupling element is formed in a single body with the connecting plate. Preferably, the connecting plate and the respective coupling element are formed from a single plate-like element, preferably by bending it.

[0025] The coupling element is preferably configured so that it is completely hidden from view after installation, while maintaining aesthetic continuity.

[0026] The arrangement allows for the removal and replacement of each individual panel without the need to dismantle adjacent panels, thus reducing the time and cost of interventions.

[0027] In some embodiments of the present solution, the connecting plate is made of aluminium or an aluminium alloy or preferably of stainless or corrosion-resistant steel, thereby providing corrosion resistance in humid environments.

[0028] In some embodiments, the plate has a thickness between 1 and 5 mm, thereby optimizing the strength-to-weight ratio.

[0029] In some embodiments, the anchoring elements of the supporting structure can include openings, preferably through-openings, formed within the supporting structure itself, which simplifies the system's implementation. Preferably, the panel's coupling element comprises projecting sections configured to be inserted through and anchored to these openings, thereby achieving secure mechanical attachment.

[0030] In some embodiments, the foregoing sections are configured such that they are inserted through the above-mentioned openings straddling at least one edge section of the same openings and are blocked straddling this edge section by gravity.

[0031] In some embodiments, the foreground sections are bent such that the coupling element of the panel, together with the respective connecting plate, has an essentially "S"-shaped cut configuration.

[0032] Alternatively or additionally, the coupling element can include at least one permanent magnet, enabling engagement without rotation. Consequently, the anchoring elements can include ferromagnetic elements that complement the magnets, or vice versa.

[0033] In some embodiments, the arrangement may include positioning means to guide the alignment of the panel during coupling and thus facilitate precise operations.

[0034] In some embodiments, the finishing panel has a thickness between 5 and 12 mm and compensates for stiffness and handling.

[0035] In some embodiments, the finishing panel has a thickness between 3 and 20 mm, which allows for easy handling.

[0036] In some embodiments, the supporting structure comprises vertical posts and horizontal crossbeams that form a stable perimeter frame.

[0037] In some embodiments, the arrangement comprises a multitude of angled panels, for example orthogonally, which allow the covering of different sides of the supporting structure.

[0038] Each panel can be equipped with its own connecting plate, ensuring independence during assembly and disassembly.

[0039] The adjacent panels may have edges configured to create a joint preferably less than 3 mm wide, thereby minimizing visible discontinuities.

[0040] In some embodiments, the connecting plate can have a wide contact area, for example at least 30% of the back surface of the panel, thereby distributing the loads evenly.

[0041] In some embodiments, the panel is made of composite material, which allows for lightness and strength.

[0042] Alternatively, the panel can be made of wood, MDF, HPL, or polymer material and can be adapted to different aesthetic requirements. It should be noted that the panels can also feature finishes made of steel or other metals, as the system for hanging them on the supporting structure is compatible with aesthetic solutions that call for the use of heavier materials.

[0043] In some embodiments, the arrangement may include sealing materials that are inserted between the panel and the supporting structure to prevent the ingress of water.

[0044] Additionally or alternatively, the outer surface of the panel can be covered with waterproof material, which increases its durability. Additionally or alternatively, the surface can be treated with water-repellent substances, which facilitates cleaning and maintenance.

[0045] The problems mentioned above are also, at least partially, solved in accordance with a second aspect of this solution, by a method for installing removable cladding panels. This method preferably includes providing a surrounding supporting structure for a bathtub.

[0046] The process can include the permanent attachment of at least one connecting plate to the back surface of a panel using structural adhesive.

[0047] The process may involve waiting for the adhesive to cure in order to ensure optimal bond performance.

[0048] The process may include positioning the panel on the supporting structure.

[0049] The procedure can include coupling elements firmly connected to the plate with the anchoring elements of the structure.

[0050] The coupling can be achieved by a sliding motion, thereby creating a mechanical locking mechanism.

[0051] The coupling elements can be completely hidden from view after installation.

[0052] Each panel can be installed and removed independently of the other panels, maximizing operational flexibility.

[0053] The procedure may involve inserting the foreground sections through openings for locking.

[0054] The procedure may include a test step by applying tensile force to the installed panel.

[0055] Removal based on inspection can be carried out without special tools in less than 2 minutes per panel.

[0056] The application of the adhesive can follow a pattern that covers at least 30% of the panel surface. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0057] The present solution will now be described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments and in particular to the embodiment shown in the combined figures, wherein: - Fig. 1 a perspective view of an inspectable cladding arrangement according to the present invention; - Fig. 2 a sectioned partial view of a panel of the cladding arrangement made of Fig. 1 is connected to a supporting structure of the same arrangement.

[0058] Referring first to Fig. 1 An inspectable cladding arrangement for bathtubs according to the present invention is collectively designated by reference numeral 1. The arrangement 1 comprises one or more finishing panels, which are indicated in the figure by reference numerals 10 and 10B and fulfill an aesthetic and protective function without substantially contributing to the load-bearing capacity of the structure.

[0059] The cladding panels 10, 10B preferably have dimensional characteristics that facilitate their installation. Each panel 10, 10B has a thickness between 3 and 20 mm, more preferably between 5 and 12 mm, which represents an optimal compromise between mechanical strength and ease of handling.

[0060] Depending on the application requirements, the 10 and 10B panels can be manufactured from various materials. In particular: composite materials offer high strength and dimensional stability; appropriately treated wood provides aesthetic value while maintaining suitable mechanical properties; medium-density fiberboard or high-pressure laminates represent economically advantageous solutions with good performance; polymer materials allow for special and sophisticated shapes and surfaces.

[0061] In general, the panels 10, 10B can be made of any material that has adequate stiffness and resistance to the humid environment typical for bathroom installations.

[0062] The supporting structure 12 consists of building elements that are assembled to create a stable frame around a bathtub, which is not shown in the figure.

[0063] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 1, the supporting structure 12 is preferably formed by vertical posts 34 and horizontal crossbeams 36. The vertical elements 34 transfer the loads to the ground, while the horizontal elements 36 distribute the loads and maintain the frame geometry. Additionally or alternatively, the supporting structure 12 can be made of metal profiles, preferably corrosion-treated steel or aluminum alloys resistant to humid environments, or of a structure made of finished panels.

[0064] As described in more detail below, the arrangement comprises elements with which the panels 10, 10B can be attached to the supporting structure 12 in a removable manner; in particular, these elements can be of the same type for each panel or be different from each other.

[0065] Regarding the embodiment from Fig. It should be noted that the supporting structure 12 for mounting a panel, designated by reference numeral 10B, includes engagement means 18 configured to engage with corresponding engagement means 19 formed on the panel 10B itself. Such engagement means and countermeasures 18, 19 can, for example, define a bayonet-type locking system.

[0066] Regarding the assembly of the item with reference number 10 in Fig. The supporting structure 12 of the specified panel comprises corresponding anchoring elements 13, which in turn include through-openings 24 formed in the supporting structure 12 itself. Consequently, the arrangement 1 includes suitable removable fasteners 14 configured to connect the panel 10 to these anchoring elements 13, or more generally to the structure 12, in a removable manner.

[0067] As from Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, it should be noted that the fastening means 14 each comprise their own connecting plate 20, which is essentially permanently attached, for example by mechanical fastening and / or structural adhesive, to a rear surface 40 of the panel 10. Furthermore, the fastening means 14 also comprise a coupling element 22 that is firmly connected to the connecting plate 20. This coupling element 22 can be distinct from the connecting plate 20 and be firmly connected to it, or, as in the embodiment shown in the accompanying figures, it can be formed in a single body with the aforementioned connecting plate 20, for example by bending a single initial plate element.

[0068] This coupling element 22, in turn, comprises projecting sections 26 curved relative to the connecting plate 20 such that the fasteners 14 together have a preferably substantially "S"-shaped cross-sectional configuration. The projecting sections are therefore configured to be inserted through the respective openings 24 of the structure 12, so that they can be arranged astride at least one edge section of the same openings 24 and be locked at this edge by gravity. More generally, each coupling element 22 is configured to be removably coupled to at least one of the anchoring elements 13 of the supporting structure 12, so that it is completely concealed from view after the installation of the associated panel 10.This mounting configuration allows for the assembly and disassembly of each cladding panel to be carried out essentially independently, so that each individual panel can be removed and replaced without having to disassemble the adjacent panels. Furthermore, the anchoring elements 13 and / or the fasteners 14 are completely concealed after the panels are installed, so that the overall aesthetic appearance of the arrangement 1 is not affected. Overall, this mechanical anchoring system, implemented through the weight of the panels 10 on the structure 12, ensures a high load-bearing capacity, unlike other known systems for mounting panels to the supporting structure. This allows the use of cladding panels that can be very heavy for aesthetic reasons.

[0069] In other words, the removable fasteners 14 enable the reversible connection between the panels 10 and the structure 12 and are designed to ensure a secure hold during normal use while allowing for quick removal when necessary.

[0070] In some embodiments, the connecting plate 20 is made of metal, preferably steel, aluminum, or alloys thereof, to combine lightness, workability, and corrosion resistance. The thickness of the plate preferably varies between 1 and 5 mm, depending on the panel dimensions and the intended loads. Thinner connecting plates are sufficient for small panels, while greater thicknesses are suitable for large elements. Given that each panel 10, 10B defines its own side edge 44, these edges 44 are configured, when several panels are installed side by side, to minimize the visible joints that would otherwise form between the panels themselves. Joints smaller than 3 millimeters are preferred, as they ensure effective aesthetic continuity. Complementary edge geometries can also improve the alignment and tightness of the panels.

[0071] If the outer surface of the panels, indicated in the figure with reference numeral 42, is defined as the surface that is to face the supporting structure 12, these can be treated to increase their water resistance and facilitate cleaning: polymer coatings, protective coatings or hydrophobic treatments extend the service life in the bathroom.

[0072] With reference to Fig. It should be noted that the supporting structure 12 additionally includes maintenance openings 54, which are preferably formed in the horizontal crossbeams 34. These inspection openings may be identical to or distinct from the openings 24 described above. In general, the inspection openings 54 serve to allow an operator to inspect and / or access the bathtub enclosed by the structure 12 and / or the associated hydraulic components. When the assembly is complete, the inspection openings 54 are preferably covered by the panels 10, 10B and therefore do not detract from the aesthetic appearance of the assembly itself.However, if necessary and thanks to the combination of the removable fasteners 14 and anchoring elements 13 described above, it is possible to simply remove a single panel to access the relevant inspection opening without necessarily having to dismantle the entire structure.

[0073] The present solution overcomes the problems of the known state of the art through the synergistic combination of non-load-bearing panels, a concealed fastening system, and selective removable access. Access to the systems for inspection or maintenance is immediate; only the necessary panels need to be removed. Localized damage requires replacing only the affected element, rather than the entire cladding. The aesthetics are preserved by the absence of visible fasteners. Modularity allows for modifications and partial replacements. Thanks to the use of corrosion-resistant materials and waterproof adhesives, the system maintains consistent performance throughout the installation's lifespan.

[0074] The procedure for installing the arrangement comprises successive steps that ensure correct and permanent assembly. Regarding the embodiment described above... Fig.1. First, the supporting structure 12 is positioned and attached around a bathtub to check the flatness and stability.

[0075] The front (not shown) and rear panels 10B are attached to the structure for coupling engagement means and countermeasures 18 and 19, which may be of the bayonet type, for example.

[0076] The side panels 10 (only one shown in the figure) are positioned by gravity by placing the panels 10 next to each other and then lowering them. In particular, this process requires inserting the protruding sections 26 into the corresponding through-openings 24 formed in the supporting structure and then lowering the panel 10 so that the coupling element 22 rests against an edge of the opening 24.

[0077] Thanks to this solution, the process of installing or removing a single panel is very simple and quick, usually takes less than two minutes and requires no special tools. 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] US 8359682B2

[0003] US 3283340A

[0004] DE 20211005U1

[0005]

Claims

[1] Inspectable cladding arrangement for sanitary installations and especially bathtubs, comprising: • at least one non-load-bearing finishing panel (10); • a load-bearing structure (12) provided with anchoring elements (13); • Removable fasteners (14) configured to connect the panel (10) to the supporting structure (12); characterized by, that the fastening means (14) comprise at least one connecting plate (20) which is substantially permanently attached to a rear surface (40) of the panel (10), and at least one coupling element (22) rigidly connected to this plate (20), wherein the coupling element (22) is configured to couple removably with the anchoring elements (13) of the supporting structure (12) so that it is completely hidden from view after installation, and that each individual panel (10) can be removed and replaced without having to remove adjacent panels. [2] Arrangement according to claim 1, characterized by , that the non-load-bearing finishing panel (10) has a thickness between 3 and 20 mm. [3] Arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the connecting plate (20) is permanently attached to a rear surface of the panel (10) by means of structural adhesive. [4] Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the connecting plate (20) is made of steel, aluminium or an aluminium alloy with a thickness of preferably 1 to 5 mm. [5] Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the anchoring elements (13) comprise through openings (24) formed in the supporting structure (12), and the coupling element (22) comprises projecting sections (26) configured to be inserted through these openings (24) and anchored to them. [6] Arrangement according to claim 5, characterized by , that the foregoing sections (26) are configured such that they are inserted through the openings (24) straddling at least one edge section thereof and are locked straddling the edge section by gravity. [7] Arrangement according to claim 6, wherein the foreground sections (26) are bent relative to the connecting plate in a substantially ‘S’-shaped cut configuration. [8] Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the finishing panel (10) has a thickness between 5 and 12 mm. [9] Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the supporting structure (12) comprises vertical posts (34) and horizontal crossbeams (36) forming an inner perimeter frame. [10] Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that it comprises a plurality of adjacent panels (10, 10B), each of which is equipped with its own removable fastening device (14). [11] Arrangement according to claim 10, characterized by, that the adjacent panels (10, 10B) have edges (44) configured to create a joint of less than 3 mm width when installed. [12] Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the panel (10) consists of composite material, wood, MDF, HPL or polymer material, which is preferably at least partially coated with a finishing layer. [13] Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the outer surface (42) of the panel (10) is coated with waterproof material and / or treated with water-repellent fabrics.

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