Rail system for suspending sliding panels, and sliding panel system equipped with such rail system

Abstract

Rail system for suspending sliding panels, comprising: a rail profile, provided for being fixed to a wall and / or ceiling structure, and at least one mounting assembly, provided for suspending a sliding panel on the rail profile. Each mounting assembly comprises a mounting bracket and an adapter part, the mounting bracket comprising an elongate body on which the following components are provided: at least one running wheel, a height adjustment mechanism for adjusting the position of the adapter part relative to the mounting bracket in height direction, and a lift-out protection device that is removably fixable to the body of the mounting bracket. The adapter part ensures the connection of the sliding panel to the mounting bracket, in such a way that the mounting bracket and the rail profile are universal parts for sliding panels of different types, weights and / or sizes. Sliding panel system comprising at least one sliding panel and such a rail system.

Description

DescriptionTitle of Invention: Rail system for suspending sliding panels, and sliding panel system equipped with such rail systemTechnical Field

[0001] This invention concerns a rail system for suspending sliding panels, and a sliding panel system equipped with such a rail system.State of the art

[0002] A modular rail system for suspending sliding doors is known from EP 2064 406.This document describes a modular rail system comprising at least one rail profile comprising a top side with a first flat part provided to be fixed against a horizontal wall part, a bottom side with a rail section for carrying suspension wheels of a sliding door, a first lateral side connecting the top side to the bottom side and a second flat part provided to be fixed against a vertical wall part, and an open second lateral side opposite the first lateral side. On both opposite lateral sides, the rail profile comprises recesses provided to receive complementary spacers. The rail system also comprises a plurality of spacers of different sizes. By means of these spacers, distances between the rail profile and the vertical wall part, or between the rail profile and another rail profile, can be defined.

[0003] A disadvantage of well-known sliding door systems is that for sliding doors of other types and / or dimensions, other suspension and / or rail systems must be provided.Summary of the invention

[0004] It is a first aim of this invention to at least partially remedy the disadvantage mentioned above.

[0005] It is a second aim of this invention to provide a universal rail system that can be used for suspending sliding doors of different types and / or sizes.

[0006] These aims may be achieved with a rail system according to the first claim.

[0007] As used herein, the term "sliding panel" refers to any conceivable type of sliding door or sliding wall panel that can at least partially close a wall opening of a building and / or create a separation between two adjacent rooms of a building.

[0008] In a first aspect, which may be combined with other aspects and / or embodiments described herein, the invention relates to a rail system for suspending sliding panels, comprising: a rail profile, provided for being fixed to a wall and / or ceiling structure, and at least one mounting assembly, provided for suspending a sliding panel on the rail profile, in such a way that the sliding panel is movable in longitudinal direction of the rail profile. Each mounting assembly comprises a mounting bracket and an adapter part, the mounting bracket comprising an elongate body on which the following partsare provided: at least one running wheel, by means of which the mounting bracket is movably suspendable on the rail profile, and a height adjustment mechanism, provided for adjusting the position of the adapter part with respect to the mounting bracket in height direction, and preferably a lift-out protection device that is removably fixable to the body of the mounting bracket; and wherein the adapter part ensures the connection of the sliding panel to the mounting bracket in such a way that the mounting bracket and the rail profile are universal parts for sliding panels of different types, weights and / or dimensions. In other words, the adapter part ensures that the mounting assembly is adapted to the sliding panel of the desired type, weight and / or dimensions.

[0009] By suspending the sliding panels on the rail profile with the mounting assembly according to this disclosure, it can be achieved that all mechanisms that are desired for adjusting the mounting assembly to the environment where the sliding panel is installed are provided on the universal part, in particular the mounting bracket. Only the adapter part may be different depending on the type and / or dimensions of the sliding panel and the function of the adapter part may be reduced to fitting the panel to the mounting bracket. In certain embodiments, the adapter part may even be an (integral) part of the panel itself. In this way, the rail profile and all possible mechanisms or means that are applied thereon for certain functionalities of the sliding panel may also be made universal for panels of different types and / or sizes and may possibly be movable provided in the rail profile.

[0010] An example of such a mechanism is a braking system and / or stop system for slowing down the movement of the panel just before an extreme position and / or for defining the extreme position, and which cooperates with a stop that may for example be provided on the mounting bracket. Such a mechanism may have a shape that fits into the rail profile or part thereof, and may thus be longitudinally movable, the final position being secured by a screw or the like. Optionally, the stop, which is provided on the mounting bracket, may also be made adjustable or movable to increase the number of options for the extreme position(s).

[0011] The lift-out protection device is a locking element that is applied to prevent that the mounting bracket - and the panel connected thereto - is detached from the rail profile. Preferably, but not essentially, the lift-out protection device is provided at the top side of the mounting bracket and the element substantially fills the gap between the mounting bracket and an overhead edge of the rail profile.

[0012] In embodiments according to the invention, each mounting bracket may comprise at least two running wheels. Preferably, the running wheels are located substantially symmetrically with respect to the middle of the elongate body of the mounting bracket.

[0013] In embodiments according to the invention, each mounting bracket may comprise a movable stop, provided for engaging a brake or stop that is mounted on the rail profileand for defining an end position of the sliding panel. In embodiments, the movable stop may be carried out as a set of at least two transverse bores in the elongate body, preferably substantially symmetrical with respect to the middle of the body, and a stop pin mounted in one of these transverse bores. The position of the stop - and therefore the extreme position of the respective panel - is thus defined according to the bore in which the stop is applied.

[0014] In embodiments according to the invention, the height adjustment mechanism may comprise a first and a second set of screws, each of which are provided at one end of the elongate body, preferably substantially symmetrical with respect to the middle of the elongate body of the mounting bracket. In this way, the height is adjustable on both sides of the mounting bracket and any tilt of the panel and / or the rail profile can also be absorbed in the height adjustment. Preferably, each set of screws comprises an adjustment screw for adusting the position of the adapter part relative to the respective end of the elongate body in height direction and a fixing screw for securing the position after adjustment. Preferably, the adjusting screw and the fixing screw each extend in the height direction of the elongate body, in opposite sense relative to each other. In this way, these screws absorb opposing forces and can provide a good assurance of the set position.

[0015] In embodiments according to the invention, the rail system may comprise a cover profile, preferably detachably mountable on the rail profile, provided for closing a cavity in the rail profile in which the mounting assembly is moved during use. With this cover profile, the rail system and all technical parts provided thereon can be hidden from the user. The depth of the cover profile, more specifically the dimension of the cover profile in the transverse direction of the rail system, may be chosen in view of the thickness of the respective panel.

[0016] In embodiments according to the invention, the cover profile and the rail profile together may be equipped with a magnetic coupling for mounting the cover profile on the rail profile. In this way, a simple detachable mounting of the cover profile on the rail profile can be obtained.

[0017] In embodiments according to the invention, the rail system may be provided with a plurality of different adapter parts as described herein for sliding panels of different types and / or sizes, with the rail profile and mounting bracket being universal for each of these sliding panels. For example, one or more adapter parts may be provided for transparent or translucent panels, for example without a frame, the panel of which consists almost entirely of a transparent or translucent material, with the adapter part then being provided for being mounted on the transparent or translucent panel. Furthermore, one or more adapter parts may for example be provided for panels with a frame, wherein the adapter part is provided for being mounted on or in the frame, or ispart of the frame.

[0018] In embodiments according to the invention, the rail system may be equipped with a plurality of different cover profiles as described herein, for mounting on the rail profile, wherein the dimensions of the cover profile are each time adapted to the dimensions of the sliding panel that is mounted on the rail profile. Also in these embodiments, the rail profile and mounting bracket may be universal for the various sliding panels.

[0019] In a second aspect, which may be combined with other aspects and / or embodiments described herein, the invention relates to a sliding panel system that comprises a rail system as described herein and at least one sliding panel suspended from the rail system.

[0020] In embodiments according to the invention, the sliding panel system further comprises a guide element, provided to be mounted against a vertical wall along which the sliding panel is slided during use, more specifically in a comer formed by the vertical wall and an adjacent floor, and provided for guiding a bottom side of the sliding panel upon sliding.

[0021] In a third aspect, which may be combined with other aspects and / or embodiments described herein, the invention relates to a set of parts for forming a closure or seal between a sliding panel and a wall. The set of parts comprises a closing profile, provided for being mounted between the panel and the wall and comprising on one side a swelling band for filling a gap between the profile and the wall and on the other side a brush element for filling a gap between the profile and the sliding panel. The set of parts further comprises holders, provided for being mounted against the wall and for holding the closing profile, e.g. an upper holder for being mounted at the bottom side of the rail system and a lower holder for being mounted at the level of a floor or plinth. The set of parts further comprises a guide element, provided for being mounted against the wall or on the floor underneath the sliding panel and provided for guiding a bottom side of the sliding panel during the movement of the sliding panel, in such a way that the sliding panel remains in contact with the brush element.

[0022] Because, in embodiments according to the invention, the rail profile and / or the mounting bracket may be universal for sliding panels of different types and / or dimensions, it can be obtained that the gap between a fixed wall and the sliding panel has each time substantially the same dimensions. Consequently, the aforementioned set of parts can be used to close or seal this opening, wherein this set may also be universal for sliding panels of different types and / or sizes.

[0023] In embodiments according to the invention, a lower holder for the closing profile and the guide element may together form one part, wherein the guide element preferably being located against a lateral side of the holder. This embodiment is provided forwalls where there is no plinth at the bottom. In this embodiment , a closing profile is used that extends over substantially the entire height of the sliding panel, more specifically the height between the floor and the bottom side of the rail profile.

[0024] In embodiments according to the invention, a lower holder for the closing profile and the guide element may also be separate parts, with the lower holder being provided for being mounted above a plinth of the wall. In this embodiment, a closing profile is used that extends over substantially the entire height between the plinth and the bottom side of the rail profile.Brief description of the drawings

[0025] The invention will be explained in more detail below on the basis of embodiments according to the invention shown in the drawings.

[0026] Fig. 1 shows a cross-section of a first embodiment of a system according to a first aspect of the invention.

[0027] Fig. 2 shows a detail of Fig. 1.

[0028] Fig. 3 shows a perspective image of a detail of the first embodiment.

[0029] Fig. 4A and 4B show views of a mounting assembly of the first embodiment in exploded view.

[0030] Figs. 5A to 5D show perspective views of the mounting assembly of the first embodiment in different positions of the height control.

[0031] Fig. 6 shows a cross-section of a second embodiment of a system according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0032] Figs. 7A and 7B show views of a mounting assembly of the second embodiment in exploded view.

[0033] Fig. 8 shows a cross-section of a third embodiment of a system according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0034] Figs. 9A and 9B show views of a third-form assembly assembly in exploded view.

[0035] Figs. 10 to 12 show perspective views of different parts of a set of parts for forming a seal or seal between a sliding panel and a wall, according to an embodiment of the second aspect of the invention.

[0036] Figs. 13 and 14 show perspective views of an assembly according to a further embodiment of the invention.

[0037] Figs. 15 to 18 show perspective views of different parts of a set of parts for forming a seal or seal between a sliding panel and a wall, according to a further embodiment of the second aspect of the invention.Description of Embodiments

[0038] Below, certain embodiments according to the invention are described with reference to certain drawings, but the invention is not limited thereto. The described drawingsare only schematic and non-limiting. In the drawings, the size of certain elements may be exaggerated and not drawn to scale for illustrative purposes. The dimensions and relative dimensions do not necessarily correspond to actual practical embodiments of the invention.

[0039] Moreover, the terms first, second, third and the like are used in the description and in the claims to distinguish between similar elements and not necessarily to describe a sequential or chronological order. The terms shall be interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and the embodiments of the invention may be applied in sequences other than those described or illustrated herein.

[0040] In addition, the terms top, bottom, about, bottom and the like in the description and claims are used for illustrative purposes and not necessarily to describe relative positions. The terms thus used shall be interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and the embodiments of the invention described herein may be applied in orientations other than those described or illustrated herein.

[0041] Furthermore, the various embodiments, although referred to as "preferred embodiments", should be understood as a way of exemplifying the invention rather than as a limitation of the scope of the invention.

[0042] The term “comprising”, used in the claims, should not be interpreted as being limited to the means or steps listed thereafter; the term does not exclude other elements or steps. The term should be interpreted as specifying the presence of the mentioned characteristics, elements, steps or components referred to, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other characteristics, elements, steps or components, or groups thereof. The scope of the expression “a device comprising means A and B” should therefore not be limited to devices consisting only of components A and B. The meaning is that with regard to the present invention only the components A and B of the device are listed, and the claim must be further interpreted to include equivalents of these components.

[0043] Figs. 1 to 5 show a first embodiment of a sliding panel system 100. The system 100 comprises at least one rail profile 110, at least one sliding panel 130 and at least one mounting assembly 150 for suspending the sliding panel to the system.

[0044] Fig. 2 shows a detail of the rail system. The rail system has a height H and a depth DI. The rail profile 110 is provided for being fixed to a wall and / or ceiling construction 101. This rail profile 110 is provided to be used universally for the suspension of sliding panels of different types, sizes and weights, as described herein. The rail profile 110 comprises an upper wall 111, provided to be fixed to an upper part of the structure 101, a back wall 112, provided to be fixed to a vertical part of the structure 101, and a lower wall 113 with a rail section 114, provided for carrying running wheels 151 of the sliding panel 130. In the embodiment shown, the upper wall111 and the back wall 112 are each fixed to the structure 101 by means of screws. However, this can also be done differently, with any fasteners known to the skilled person. It is also not essential that both the upper wall and the back wall are fixed to the structure. In the embodiment shown, the rail section 114 has in cross-section a convex support surface and the running wheels have in cross-section a concave tread. However, this may also be done the other way around, i.e. with a concave support surface and convex treads on the running wheels. Other embodiments are also possible. In general, the rail part functions as a "rail", i.e. the rail part determines the direction of movement of the running wheels and, consequently, the panels 130.

[0045] The front side 115 of the rail profile 110 is largely open, so that the upper wall, back wall and lower wall together define a cavity 116, in which the mounting assembly is at least partially included during use. In addition, other mechanisms or systems may be provided in this cavity 116, such as, for example, a braking system 117 for slowing down movement of the movable panel and / or a stop system 118 for defining an extreme position of the movable panel, or other. In the embodiment shown, two flanges facing each other are provided on the back wall 112, which together form a continuous slot for the inclusion of the braking system 117. In this way, the braking system can be positioned and fixed in almost any position on the rail profile (see also Fig. 3). The stop system 118, which comprises a stop for the end position, may also be inserted and fixed in this slot.

[0046] At the top of the front side 115 of the rail profile 110, i.e. at the front of the upper wall 111, a profile part 120 is provided for fixing a cover profile 124. To this end, the profile part 120 comprises a forward-facing slot 121, provided for accommodating one or more magnetic elements 122 (magnets or elements in a magnetizable material) that interact with correspondingly positioned magnetic elements 123 (magnets or elements in a magnetizable material) on the cover profile 124. The shape of the profile part 120 and an upper part of the cover cap are also complementary to each other, in particular in such a way that the profile part 120 fits into an opening in the cover profile 124. In this way, the connection between the profile part 120 and the cover profile 124 is both mechanical (because the parts fit in / on top of each other) and magnetic. This connection, which is preferably both mechanical and magnetic, may also be performed in other ways than shown in the drawings. An advantage of the combination of mechanical and magnetic connection is that a detachable connection is obtained between both parts 120, 124 which is nevertheless relatively strong. With this cover profile, the rail system and all technical components provided thereon can be hidden from the user. The depth of the cover profile, more specifically the dimension of the cover profile in the transverse direction of the rail system, may be chosen in function of the thickness of the relevant panel. The rail system of Fig. 1 has a total depth DI.

[0047] The front profile part 120 and / or the upper part of the cover profile 124 (if present) also forms an stop for a tilt or lift-out protection device 167, which is preferably provided on the mounting assembly 150. Between the locking element 167 of the lift- out protection device and the stop, only a small opening with height h is provided, such that there is sufficient clearance to move the panel, but that when tilted, the locking element 167 comes into contact with the stop. The tilt or lift protection is described in more detail below.

[0048] The sliding panel 130 is shown in Fig. 1 by means of an upper and lower profile 131, 132, which are in reality connected to each other and form parts of the sliding panel.

[0049] Figs. 4 and 5 show the mounting assembly 150 of the first embodiment. The system 100 comprises at least one such mounting assembly 150, preferably one such mounting assembly on each lateral side of each panel 130, each time provided for the suspension of the sliding panel 130 on the rail profile 110, in particular on the rail section 114 thereof, in such a way that the panel 130 is longitudinally movable on the rail profile. Each assembly comprises at least a mounting bracket 152, which is universal for the suspension of sliding panels of different types, sizes and weights, as described herein, and one or more adjustment parts or adapter parts 153. In the embodiment shown, the adapter part is provided in the upper profile 131 of the panel. The mounting bracket 152 comprises an elongate body 154 on which preferably the following parts are provided: at least one running wheel 151, with which the mounting bracket is movably suspendable on the rail profile, a height adjustment mechanism 160-163, provided for adjusting the position of the adapter part 153 relative to the mounting bracket 152 in height direction, and a movable stop 156, provided to enter into contact with a brake and / or stop 117, 118 fitted to the rail profile and to determine an end position of the sliding panel. The adapter part 153 ensures the connection of the sliding panel 130 with the mounting bracket 152, in such a way that the mounting bracket can be a universal part for sliding panels of different types and / or sizes and the adapter part 153 ensures that the mounting assembly is adapted to the sliding panel of the desired type and / or dimensions. The adapter part 153 does not have to be a separate part; this can also form part of a part of the panel itself, for example a part of a frame profile of the panel, as in the embodiment shown.

[0050] As mentioned above, preferably all mechanisms that are desired for adjusting the mounting assembly to the environment where the sliding panel is mounted are provided on the universal part, in particular the mounting bracket 152. In this way, it is sufficient to provide one or more adapter parts 153 for each type, weight and / or size of the sliding panel, with the function of fitting the panel to the mounting bracket. In certain embodiments, the adapter part can even be an (integral) part of the panel itself. In this way, the rail profile 110 and all possible mechanisms or means that are mountedthereon for certain functionalities of the sliding panel, such as the brake and / or (end) stop, can also be made universal for panels of different types, weights and / or dimensions. An example is the braking system 117 for slowing down the movement of the panel just before an extreme position.

[0051] In the embodiment shown, the movable stop is executed as a set of at least two transverse bores 157, 158 in the elongate body and a stop pin 156 that is placed in one of these transverse bores. The position of the stop - and therefore the extreme position of the respective panel - is thus determined according to the bore in which the stop is applied. The bores 157, 158 and the stop pin 156 are preferably threaded, so that the stop pin can be screwed into the respective bore.

[0052] In the embodiment shown, the height adjustment mechanism comprises a first and a second set of screws 160-163, each of which are provided at one end of the elongate body, preferably substantially symmetrical with respect to the middle of the elongate body 154 of the mounting bracket. With these screws 160-163, the height can be adjusted on both sides of the mounting bracket 152 and any tilt of the panel and / or the rail profile can also be absorbed in the height adjustment. Each set of screws comprises an adjusting screw 160, 161 for controlling the position of the adapter part 153 relative to the respective end of the elongate body 154 in height direction and a fixing screw 162, 163 for securing the position after adjustment. Preferably, the adjusting screw and the fixing screw each extend in the height direction of the elongate body, in opposite sense relative to each other. In this way, these screws absorb opposing forces and can provide a good assurance of the adjusted position. To adjust the height position, the fixing screw 162, 163 is first loosened by screwing it slightly further into the body. The height position is then adjusted by means of the adjusting screw 160, 161, see for example the arrow in Fig. 5A and Fig. 5C. Once the height position has been adjusted, the fixing screw 162, 163 is unscrewed again to secure the position, more specifically until the fixing screw extends completely between a plane at the bottom of the body 154 and a plane at the top of the adapter part 153 (or panel frame 131). Fig. 5A-5D shows the height adjustment in two positions. Markings 159 are preferably provided on at least one side of the body 154, which assist the user in the adjustment in height direction.

[0053] In the embodiment shown, each mounting bracket comprises at least two running wheels 151. Preferably, the running wheels are located substantially symmetrically relative to the middle of the elongate body of the mounting bracket. In the embodiment of Fig. 4, the adapter part 153 is an integral part of a frame profile of the sliding panel. An opening has been made in this frame profile, in particular a slot 164 in the top of the frame with two transverse slots 165 extending into the top and further into the lateral side of the frame profile 153. This opening has a shape corresponding to thelower part of the body 154 of the mounting bracket, such that this part of the body can be included in the frame profile 153. The transverse slots 165 offer space for the axles of the running wheels. Holes are provided on both sides of this opening, along which the adjusting screws of the height adjustment system are fitted in sleeves 166 that are mounted on the frame profile 153. In this way, the adjusting screws 160, 161 attach the mounting bracket to the frame profile 153. The height position is secured by means of the fixing screws 162, 163.

[0054] In embodiments according to the invention, each mounting bracket can further comprise a tilt or lift protection, which can be removably mounted on the body of the mounting bracket. This lift-out protection device is a locking element 167 that is fitted to prevent the mounting bracket - and the panel connected thereto - from detaching from the rail profile. Preferably, but not essentially, the lift-out protection device is provided at the top of the mounting bracket and the element substantially fills the gap between the mounting bracket and an overhead edge of the rail profile, with the exception of a gap with height h for clearance when moving the panel. The locking element 167 is preferably a detachable element, in such a way that it can be easily removed when working on the sliding panel system, if necessary. Preferably, the locking element 167 is a plastic part that is snapped into a transverse opening at the top of the body 154, substantially in the middle of the body. The locking element 167 extends a specific distance above the upper edge of the body 154 to substantially fill the space up to the stop edge on the rail system and preferably has a convex top side.

[0055] Figs. 6 to 7 show a second embodiment of a sliding panel system according to the invention. The system 200 comprises at least one rail profile 210, at least one sliding panel 230 and at least one mounting assembly 250 for suspending the sliding panel to the system.

[0056] The rail profile 210 is exactly the same as the rail profile 110 of the first embodiment and is therefore not described in detail again. In other words, this rail profile 110, 210 is universal for both embodiments.

[0057] As shown in Fig. 6, the system 200 also comprises a cover profile 224. In this embodiment, the cover profile has other dimensions, more specifically a greater depth (the dimension of the cover profile in the transverse direction of the system) and is adapted to the sliding panel 250, which has a greater depth than that of the first embodiment. The total depth of the rail system is D2, greater than DI of the first embodiment. The coupling of the cover profile 224 with the rail profile 210 is exactly the same as in the first embodiment and is therefore not described in detail again.

[0058] The sliding panel 230 is shown in cross-section in Fig. 6 and comprises an upper and a lower profile, 231, 232 and two plates 233 that are connected to the lateral sides of the profiles 231, 232 and form the front and back walls of the sliding panel 230. In theembodiment shown, the upper and lower profiles are 231, 232 equal profiles, i.e. they have the same shape in cross-section, but this is not essential.

[0059] The system 200 comprises at least one mounting assembly 250, provided for the suspension of a sliding panel 230 on the rail profile 210, in particular on the rail section 214 thereof, in such a way that the panel 230 is longitudinally movable on the rail profile. Each mounting assembly comprises at least one mounting bracket 252, which is universal for the suspension of sliding panels of different types, sizes and weights, as described herein, and two adjustment parts or adapter parts 253, 254. The mounting bracket 252 is exactly the same as the mounting bracket 152 that was described in the first embodiment and is therefore not described in detail again. The adapter parts 253, 254 ensure the connection of the upper profile 231 of the sliding panel 230 with the mounting bracket 252.

[0060] In the embodiment of Fig. 7A-7B, the adapter parts 253, 254 are inserts that are placed in a cavity that is provided at the top of the upper profile 231. The inserts each have a slot hole 255, 256, through which the adjusting screws 160, 161 are fitted to attach the mounting bracket 252 to the upper profile 231 and adjust it in height direction. The slotted holes extend transversely to the direction of the upper profile 231, so that the mounting bracket 252 can be positioned slightly at an angle to the upper profile 231 to accommodate any tolerances and to align the mounting bracket 252 with the rail profile 230. The insertion elements 253, 254 further have an upper surface 257, 258 that forms a stop for the fixing screws 162, 163 of the height adjustment, which secure the height position after adjustment. In the upper profile 231, two slots 265 are provided that extend in height direction in the lateral side of the profile. These slots 265 accommodate the axles of the running wheels 151, when the body of the mounting bracket is placed in the cavity at the top of the upper profile 231.

[0061] Figs. 8 to 9 show a third embodiment of a system according to the invention. The 300 system comprises at least one rail profile 310, at least one sliding panel 330 and at least one mounting assembly 350 for suspending the sliding panel on the system. In this embodiment, the sliding panel 330 is formed by a glass plate.

[0062] The rail profile 310 is exactly the same as the rail profile 110, 210 of the first and second embodiments and is therefore not described in detail again. In other words, this rail profile 110, 210, 310 is universal for the three embodiments.

[0063] As shown in Fig. 8, the system 300 further comprises a cover profile 324. This is exactly the same as the cover profile 124 of the first embodiment and is therefore not described in detail again. The depth D3 of the rail system is substantially the same as the depth DI in the first embodiment.

[0064] The system 300 comprises at least one mounting assembly 350, provided for suspending the glass plate 330 on the rail profile 310, more specifically on the rail partthereof, in such a way that the glass plate 330 is longitudinally movable on the rail profile. Each mounting assembly comprises at least a mounting bracket 352, which is universal for the suspension of sliding panels of different types, sizes and weights, as described herein, and an adapter part 353. The mounting bracket 352 is exactly the same as the mounting bracket 152, 252 described in the first and second embodiments and is therefore not described in detail again. The adapter part 353 ensures the connection of the glass plate 330 with the mounting bracket 352.

[0065] In the embodiment of Fig. 9, the adapter part 353 is a part that is applied at the top of one side of the glass plate, for example by means of bolts 355, 356, 357 and possibly with an intermediate layer 354 which is preferably a double-sided adhesive. The adapter part 353 has an opening at the top in which a lower part of the body of the mounting bracket 352 is accommodated. On both sides of this opening a bore 358, 359 is provided, through which the adjusting screws 160, 161 are fitted to fix the mounting bracket 352 to the adapter part 353 and to adjust the height position. The adjusting screws 160, 161 engage in square nuts 360, 361, which are applied as inserts in openings in the side wall of the adapter part 353. The adapter part 353 further has upper surfaces 362, 363, each of which forms a stop for the fixing screws 162, 163 of the height adjustment system, which secure the height position after adjustment. Two slots are provided in the side wall of the adapter part 353, which accommodate the axles of the running wheels 151. At the top of the glass plate 330, corresponding slots 365 are provided for this purpose.

[0066] Figs. 13 and 14 show perspective views of an assembly according to a further embodiment of the invention. This assembly assembly largely corresponds to the mounting assembly of Figs. 1 to 5 and therefore only the differences are described below.

[0067] The mounting assembly of Figs. 13 and 14 comprises a modified height adjustment mechanism 460-463, more specifically adjusting screws 460, 461 and fixing screws 462, 463, each with a screw head of larger size. In this embodiment, the diameter of the screw head is preferably 10 to 30 mm, preferably about 20 mm. In addition, the screw heads have a plurality of notches in the mantle of the head, which are provided for receiving a tool for tightening / unscrewing the screws from the side. Due to this larger size and the notches, the screw heads have a larger contact area with the mounting bracket or the top of the profile of the sliding panel 430, and the screws are easier to operate in the assembled state of the assembly. The larger contact area between the fixing screws 462, 463 and the sliding panel 430 ensures that forces due to the weight of the panel can be better absorbed.

[0068] Figs. 10 to 12 show a set of parts for forming a closure or seal between a sliding panel and a wall. The set of parts comprises a closing profile 170, provided to bemounted between the panel and the wall and comprising on one side a swelling band 171 for filling a gap between the profile and the wall and on another side a brush element 172 for filling a gap between the profile and the sliding panel. The set of parts further comprises holders 173, 174, provided for being mounted against the wall and for holding the closing profile 171. An upper holder 173 is provided for being mounted at the bottom side of the rail system 100, 200, 300 and a lower holder 174 is provided for being mounted at the level of a floor or plinth. The set of parts further comprises at least one guide element 175-179, provided for being mounted against the wall or on the floor under the sliding panel and provided for guiding a bottom of the sliding panel 130, 230, 330 during the movement of the sliding panel, such that the sliding panel remains in contact with the brush element.

[0069] Because, in embodiments according to the invention, the rail profile 110, 210, 310 and / or the mounting bracket 152, 252, 352 can be universal for sliding panels of different types and / or dimensions, it can be obtained that the gap between a fixed wall and the sliding panel always has substantially the same dimensions, more specifically a depth d in the transverse direction of the panel system. Consequently, the aforementioned set of parts can be used to close or seal this opening, whereby this set can also be universal for sliding panels of different types and / or sizes.

[0070] As shown in Fig. 10, the set can comprise a number of guide elements 175-179 with different dimensions in the depth direction, i.e. adjusted according to the thickness or depth dimension of the sliding panel. Each guide element comprises an essentially U- shaped part, a base part of which is provided for attachment to the floor, e.g. with a screw, and the upright walls of which are fitted with a sliding material 180, e.g. in a compressible material, e.g. felt, which remains in contact with the sliding panel during use.

[0071] In the embodiment according to Fig. 10-11, the lower holder 174 for the closing profile and the guide element 175-179 together form one part, with the guide element located against a lateral side of the holder. More specifically, the guide element 175-179 can be attached to the lower holder 174 by means of a tongue-and-groove connection, so that different guide elements can also be used in this embodiment depending on the depth dimension d of the sliding panel. This embodiment is provided for walls where there is no plinth at the bottom. In this embodiment, a closing profile 171 is used that extends over substantially the entire height of the sliding panel, more specifically the height between the floor and the bottom side of the rail profile.

[0072] In the embodiment according to Fig. 12, the lower holder 174' for the closing profile 170' and the guide element 175-179 are separate parts, wherein the lower holder 174' is for being mounted above a plinth of the wall. In this embodiment, a closing profile 170' is used that extends over substantially the entire height between the plinth and thebottom side of the rail profile.

[0073] Figs. 15 to 18 show perspective views of different parts of an alternative set of parts for forming a closure or seal between a sliding panel and a wall. The set of parts comprises an assembly that is composed of a first profile 471, provided to be mounted against a wall and a second profile 472 that is mounted on the first profile by means of adjustable connecting elements 473. Thanks to the adjustable connecting elements, the distance between the second profile 472 and the wall can be adjusted for optimal filling of a gap between the sliding panel and the wall. Along the length of the first and second profiles, preferably at least three of these connecting elements are provided. On the side facing the panel, the second profile 472 is equipped with a brush element 474.

[0074] In the embodiment shown, the connecting elements 473 comprise a body 475 that fits into the second profile 472 and is fixed (clamped) therein by screwing in a first screw 476 (the operation of which is like a plug). On the body, on the side facing the first profile 471, a second screw 477 is provided, which can be screwed to a greater or lesser extent into the body 475, so that the head 478 of this second screw 477 determines the distance between the first and the second profiles and consequently the distance to the wall. The head 478 of the second screw comprises an O-ring 479 that ensures a good clamping of the head in the first profile 471. As shown, multiple, interchangeable screws 477 can also be equipped with heads of different sizes depending on the distance to be covered.

[0075] The set of components further comprises at least one guide element 480, provided for being mounted against the wall or on the floor under the sliding panel and provided for guiding a bottom side of the sliding panel during the movement of the sliding panel, in such a way that the sliding panel remains substantially in contact with the brush element. Just like in Fig. 10, the set can further comprise a number of guide elements with different dimensions in the depth direction, i.e. adjusted according to the thickness or depth dimension of the sliding panel. The guide element 480 comprises an essentially U-shaped part, a base part of which is provided for attachment to the floor, e.g. with a screw, and the upright walls of which are fitted with a sliding material 481 on the side facing the sliding panel, e.g. in a compressible material, e.g. felt, which remains in contact with the sliding panel during use.

[0076] In the embodiment according to Fig. 15-18, the guide element 480 can be coupled to the first profile. To this end, the guide element on the side that is directed towards the wall in use comprises a U-shaped part 482 that fits into the first profile 471. This can be applied to walls where there is no plinth or where the plinth can be interrupted by the first profile. The final result (with interrupted plinth) is shown in Fig. 16. For applications where one cannot or does not want to interrupt the existing plinth, the legs of the U-shaped part are breakable at their base, leading to the end result shown in Fig.

Claims

Claims

1. A rail system for suspending sliding panels, comprising: a rail profile (110, 210, 310), provided for being fixed to a wall and / or ceiling structure, and at least one mounting assembly (152-153; 252-253; 352-353), provided for the suspension of a sliding panel (130; 230; 330) on the rail profile in such a way that the panel is longitudinally movable on the rail profile, characterized in that, each mounting assembly comprises a mounting bracket (152; 252; 352) and at least one adapter part (153; 253-254; 353), the mounting bracket comprising an elongate body on which the following parts are provided:- at least one running wheel (151), by means of which the mounting bracket is movably suspendable on the rail profile,- a height adjustment mechanism (160-163), provided for adjusting the position of the adapter part relative to the mounting bracket in height direction, and- a lift-out protection device (167) that is removably fixable to the body of the mounting bracket; and wherein the adapter part (153, 253-254; 353) ensures the connection of the sliding panel to the mounting bracket, such that the mounting bracket and the rail profile are universal parts for sliding panels of different types, weights and / or sizes.

2. The rail system according to claim 1, wherein the lift-out protection device is provided at the top side of the mounting bracket and substantially fills a gap between the mounting bracket and an overhead edge of the rail profile.

3. The rail system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each mounting bracket comprises at least two running wheels, the running wheels preferably being located substantially symmetrical with respect to the middle of the elongate body.

4. The rail system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the mounting bracket further comprises a movable stop (156-158), provided for engaging a brake or stop mounted on the rail profile andfor defining an end position of the sliding panel.

5. The rail system according to claim 4, wherein the movable stop is executed as a set of at least two transverse bores (157, 158) in the elongate body, preferably substantially symmetrical with respect to the middle of the body, and an stop pin (156) placed in one of these transverse bores.

6. The rail system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the height adjustment mechanism comprises a first and a second set of adjusting screws, each of which is provided at one end of the elongate body.

7. The rail system according to claim 6, wherein each set comprises an adjustment screw for adjusting the position of the adapter part relative to the respective end of the elongate body in height direction and a fixing screw for securing the position after adjustment.

8. The rail system according to claim 7, wherein the adjusting screw and the fixing screw extend in the height direction of the elongate body, in opposite sense with respect to each other.

9. The rail system according to claim 8, wherein the adjusting screw and the fixing screw each extend in the height direction of the elongate body, in the opposite sense.

10. The rail system according to one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the adjusting screw and the fixing screw have a screw head with a diameter of 10 to 30 mm, preferably about 20 mm, and / or with a plurality of notches in the mantle of the head, which are provided for receiving a tool for tightening / unscrewing the screws from the side.

11. The rail system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the rail system comprises a cover profile (124), detachably mountable on the rail profile and provided for closing a cavity in the rail profile in which the mounting assembly is moved during use.

12. The rail system according to claim 11, wherein the cover profile and the rail profile are together provided with a magnetic coupling for mounting the cover profile on the rail profile.

13. The rail system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the rail system comprises a plurality of different adapter parts for sliding panels of different types, weights and / or dimensions and where the mounting bracket is universal for each of these adapter parts.

14. A sliding panel system comprising at least one sliding panel and a rail system according to one of the preceding claims.

15. The sliding panel system according to claim 14, wherein the at least one adapter part is a separate part that is fixed to the sliding panel.

16. The sliding panel system according to claim 15, wherein the at least one adapter part is an integral part of the sliding panel.

17. The sliding panel system according to one of claims 14 to 16, wherein at least one slot for accommodating an axle of a running wheel is provided in the sliding panel at the top.

18. The sliding panel system according to one of claims 14 to 17, wherein the sliding panel system further comprises a set of parts for forming a closure or seal between a sliding panel and a wall.

19. The sliding panel system according to claim 18, wherein the set of parts comprises:- a closing profile (170), provided for being mounted between the panel and the wall and comprising on one side a swelling band (171) to fill a gap between the profile and the wall and on the other side a brush element (172) for filling a gap between the profile and the sliding panel,- holders (173, 174), provided for being mounted against the wall and for holding the closing profile,- a guide element (175-179), provided for being mounted against the wall or on the floor underneath the sliding panel and provided for guiding a bottom of the sliding panel during the movement of the sliding panel, in such a way that the sliding panel remains in contact with the brush element.

20. The sliding panel system according to claim 19, wherein a lower holder for the closing profile and the guide element together form one part, wherein the guide element is located against a lateral side of the holder.

21. The sliding panel system according to claim 19, wherein a lower holder for the closing profile and the guide element are separate parts, wherein the lower holder is provided for being mounted above a plinth of the wall.

22. The sliding panel system according to claim 18, wherein the set of parts comprises:- a first profile (471), provided for being mounted against a wall;- a second profile (472), provided with a brush element (474)on a panel-facing side to fill a gap between the profile and the sliding panel; a number of adjustable connecting elements (473) for connecting the first and second profiles and by means of which the distance between the second profile (472) and the wall is adjustable; and a guide element (480), provided for being mounted against the wall or on the floor underneath the sliding panel and provided for guiding a bottom side of the sliding panel during the movement of the sliding panel, in such a way that the sliding panel remains in contact with the brush element.

23. The sliding panel system according to claim 22, wherein the guide element comprises a U-shaped part (482) which can be mated with the first profile and whose legs are breakable at the base.

Images