Fastener for a faÇade

Abstract

A fastener (1) for fixing a façade board (2) to a substructure (3) of a façade system (4) comprising a support leg (5) with a top side (6) and a bottom side (7); at least one fastening leg (8) extending from a rear edge (9) of said support leg (5) in a top direction (T) and having a fastening opening (10) to receive a fastening device (11), at least one bottom leg (12) extending from the rear edge (9) of said support leg (5) in a bottom direction (B), at least one top flap (13) extending from a front edge (14) of said support leg (5) in said top direction (T); and at least one bottom flap (15) from the front edge (14) of said support leg (5) in said bottom direction (B); wherein a top bended portion (16) which is bended towards said at least one top flap (13), adjoins said at least one fastening leg (8) and wherein a bottom bended portion (17) which is bended towards said at least one bottom flap (15), adjoins said at least one bottom leg (15).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a fastener for fixing a façade board to a substructure according to claim 1; to a fastener arrangement according to claim 13 and a façade structure according to claim 15.PRIOR ART

[0002] Fasteners to mount façade planks to a substructure are known from prior art. Such a fastener is for example disclosed by EP 2 947 234. The fastener as described in EP 2 947 234 is provided to mount cementitious boards to a frame. It further comprises hook shaped carrying means to carry said cementitious boards.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0003] It is an object of the present invention to provide a fastener for fixing a façade board to a substructure of a façade system which has advanced properties. In particular, the fastener shall allow to mount the façade boards in a defined plane.

[0004] This and other objects are solved by the fastener according to claim 1. Accordingly, a fastener for fixing a façade board to a substructure of a façade system comprises a support leg with a top side and a bottom side, at least one fastening leg extending from a rear edge of said support leg in a top direction and having a fastening opening to receive a fastening device, at least one bottom leg extending from the rear edge of said support leg in a bottom direction, at least one top flap extending from a front edge of said support leg in said top direction; and at least one bottom flap from the front edge of said support leg in said bottom direction.

[0005] Further, a top bended portion which is bended towards said at least one top flap, adjoins said at least one fastening leg and wherein a bottom bended portion which is bended towards said at least one bottom flap, adjoins said at least one bottom leg.

[0006] The façade board is preferably a façade plank having a length much longer than a width or a façade plate. The façade board is preferably made out of fibre-cement.

[0007] The top direction is a direction that extends perpendicular to the top side. The bottom direction is a direction that extends perpendicular to the bottom side. The top side and the bottom side extend parallel to each other. The front edge and the rear edge extend parallel to each other.

[0008] The angle between said top side and said fastening leg is preferably 90°. The angle between said top side and said top flap is preferably 90°. The angle between said bottom side and said bottom leg is preferably 90°. The angle between said bottom side and said bottom flap is preferably 90°.

[0009] In a mounted state the top direction extends preferably against the plumb line and the bottom direction extends preferably in plumb line. The fastener however, can also be mounted up-side-down. In the mounted state the front edge and the rear edged extend in the horizontal direction.

[0010] The fastening opening has preferably a diameter between 4 and 8 millimetres, in particular between 4 and 6 millimetres.

[0011] Preferably, the top bended portion is located at a free end of said fastening leg. Preferably, the bottom bended portion is located at a free end of said bottom leg.

[0012] Preferably, the respective bended portion, namely the top bended portion and the bottom bended portion comprises a first section and a second section. The first section extends at an angle (α, alpha) angularly inclined to said fastening leg or said bottom leg, respectively. Said second section extends parallel to said fastening leg or said bottom leg, respectively.

[0013] In other words, the second section provides a cranked portion of the bended portion with regard to the respective leg.

[0014] Preferably, said angle (α, alpha) is between 40° and 50°, in particular said angle is 45°.

[0015] Preferably, the respective bended portion is arranged such that the bended portion is directed from the respective leg towards the respective flap.

[0016] In other words, the top bended portion is bended away from the fastening leg and is directed towards the top flap. The bottom bended portion is bended away from the bottom leg and is directed towards the bottom flap.

[0017] Preferably, the at least one fastening leg and the at least one bottom leg each comprise a back face, wherein the back face of the at least one fastening leg and the back face of the at least one bottom leg lie in a common back plane. This enhances the bearing of the fastener on the substructure, as the fastener is in contact with the substructure over with the fastening leg and the bottom leg.

[0018] Preferably, the at least one top bended portion and the at least one bottom bended portion each comprise a support face, wherein the support face of the at least one top bended portion and the support face of the at least one bottom bended portion lie in a common support plane.

[0019] Preferably, the at least one top flap and the at least one bottom flap each comprise a front face, wherein the front face of the at least one top flap and the front face of the at least one bottom flap are arranged at a distance to each other as seen in a direction perpendicular to said top direction or said bottom direction, respectively.

[0020] Preferably, the length of the top bended portion adjoining the fastening leg as seen in top direction is in the range of 1 / 4 to 1 / 8 of the overall length of the fastening leg including the top bended portion. Preferably, the length of the bottom bended portion adjoining the respective bottom leg as seen in bottom direction is in the range of 1 / 4 to 1 / 8 of the overall length of the bottom leg including the bottom bended portion.

[0021] Preferably, the at least one bottom flap has the same width as the at least one fastening leg. Preferably, the at least one bottom flap is as seen with regard to the support leg arranged directly opposite of said at least one fastening leg.

[0022] Preferably, the at least one top flap has the same width as the at least one bottom leg. Preferably, the at least one top flap is as seen with regard to the support leg arranged directly opposite of said at least one bottom leg.

[0023] The term width is to be understood as being the dimension of the respective part in a direction perpendicular to the top direction or to the bottom direction.

[0024] Preferably, the at least one fastening leg and the at least one bottom flap are located between two neighbouring bottom legs and two neighbouring top flaps.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment exactly one fastening leg is arranged and exactly two top flaps are arranged on either side of the fastening leg. Further, exactly one bottom flap is arranged and exactly two bottom legs are arranged on either side of the fastening leg.

[0026] Preferably, each of the bottom legs and each of the top flaps are arranged at a distance as seen in a direction perpendicular to said top direction or said bottom direction, respectively. Said distance is preferably larger than 1 millimetre, in particular larger than 2 millimetres. In a preferred embodiment said distance is 2.5 millimetres.

[0027] Preferably, at least one fastening leg extends from said top side with a fastening leg length and the at least one bottom leg extends from said bottom side with a bottom leg length.

[0028] Preferably, said fastening leg length is equal to said bottom leg length.

[0029] Preferably, said fastening leg length and / or said bottom leg length are between 20 and 40 millimetres, in particular between 22 and 28 millimetres. In a preferred embodiment the fastening leg length and the bottom leg length are 24 millimetres.

[0030] Preferably, the at least one top flap extends from said top side with a top flap length and the at least one bottom flap extends from bottom side with a bottom flap length. Preferably, said top flap length and / or said bottom flap length are between 3 and 12 millimetres, in particular between 3 and 8 millimetres.

[0031] Preferably, said top flap length is shorter than said bottom flap length; or said top flap length is equal to said bottom flap length; or said top flap length is longer than said bottom flap length.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment the top flap length is 4 millimetres and bottom flap length is 6 millimetres.

[0033] The term length is to be understood as being the dimension of the respective part in direction of the top direction or of the bottom direction.

[0034] Preferably the fastener is made out of one piece.

[0035] Preferably, the fastener is made out of a steel sheet having a thickness of 0.5 millimetres to 2 millimetres, in particular 0.5 millimetres to 1.5 millimetres.

[0036] Preferably, the at least one fastening leg, the at least one bottom leg, the at least one top flap and the at least one bottom flap are bended with bending radius. The bending radius is preferably equal or smaller than the thickness of the steel sheet.

[0037] In other words as seen in a direction transverse to the top direction the bended portion of the fastening leg is located at a distance to the top flap; and / or as seen in a direction (D) transverse to the bottom direction (B) the bended portion of the bottom leg is located at a distance to the bottom flap.

[0038] Preferably, the fastener comprises several reinforcing deformations that are arranged to enhance the stiffness at the respective location, preferably, at least one of said reinforcing deformation is arranged between the support leg and the at least one fastening leg; and / or at least one of said reinforcing deformation is arranged between the support leg and the bottom leg; and / or at least one of said reinforcing deformation is arranged between the support leg and the at least one top flap; and / or at least one of said reinforcing deformation is arranged between the support leg and the at least one bottom flap.

[0039] A fastener arrangement comprising a fastener as described above and a fastening device. The fastening device comprises a shaft section and a head section, wherein the head section has a diameter that is larger than the shaft section, wherein the shaft section extends through the fastening opening and the head section is in contact with a front surface of said fastening leg.

[0040] Preferably, the top bended portion is bended such that a front side of the top bended portion is located at a larger distance to the front side of said fastening leg than the height of the head section in the same direction. This means that the head of the head section lies behind a plane that is provided by the support face of the top bended portion such that the façade board is not to be brought into contact with the head portion.

[0041] A façade structure comprises a plurality of fastener arrangements as described above and a plurality of façade boards. Said façade board comprises a lower bearing section and an upper bearing section. Said lower bearing section is beared by a lower fastener of said fastener, wherein said lower bearing section comprises a groove which receives said top flap and a rear surface which comes into contact with the top bended portion. Said upper bearing section is beared by an upper fastener of said fasteners, wherein said upper bearing section comprises a front surface which comes into contact with said bottom flap and a rear surface which comes into contact with said bottom bended portion.

[0042] The lower fastener is mounted underneath the upper fastener.

[0043] A method to mount a façade structure according to the description above is characterized in that in a first step at least one lower fastener is mounted to a substructure, in a second step said façade board is mounted with its lower bearing section to the lower fastener; in a third step at least one upper fastener is placed on the upper bearing section; and in a fourth step said at least one upper fastener is mounted the substructure.

[0044] Further embodiments of the invention are laid down in the dependent claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] Preferred embodiments of the invention are described in the following with reference to the drawings, which are for the purpose of illustrating the present preferred embodiments of the invention and not for the purpose of limiting the same. In the drawings, Fig. 1shows a perspective front view of a preferred embodiment of a fastener according to the present invention; Fig. 2shows a perspective back view of the fastener according to figure 1; Fig. 3shows a front view of the fastener according to figure 1; Fig. 4shows a side view of the fastener according to figure 1; Fig. 5shows a perspective view of a façade structure with fasteners according to the previous figures; Fig. 6ashows a perspective view of a mounting process to mount a façade board with the fasteners of the façade structure of figure 5; and Fig. 6bshows the perspective view of figure 6b. DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0046] Figures 1 to 4 show several different views of a fastener 1 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The fastener 1 is provided to fix a façade board 2 to a substructure 3 of a façade system 4. The façade system is shown in figures 5 to 6b.

[0047] With reference to figures 1 to 4 the fastener 1 is explained in detail as follows. The fastener 1 comprises a support leg 5, at least one fastening leg 8, at least one bottom leg 12, at least one top flap 13 and at least one bottom flap 15.

[0048] The support leg 5 comprises a top side 6 and a bottom side 7, which runs parallel to the bottom side. Thereby, the top side 6 is located above the bottom side 7. A top direction T extends perpendicular to the top side 6 and a bottom direction B extends perpendicular to the bottom side 7. In case the substructure 3 is mounted angularly inclined to the plumb line, the top side 6 and the bottom side 7 extend preferably in the horizontal. In case the substructure 3 is mounted angularly inclined to the plumb line, the top side 6 and the bottom side 7 are also mounted angularly inclined to the horizontal.

[0049] The at least one fastening leg 8 extends from a rear 9 of said support leg 5 in said top direction T. In the present preferred embodiment exactly one fastening leg 8 is arranged. The fastening leg 8 comprises a fastening opening 10. The fastening opening 10 is provided to receive a fastening device 11 in order to fasten the fastener 1 to the substructure 3. The fastening device 11 can be a nail or a screw or a rivet or a similar device.

[0050] The at least one bottom leg 12 extends from the rear edge 9 of said support leg 5 in said bottom direction B. In the present preferred embodiment exactly two bottom legs 12 are arranged. The at least one bottom leg 12 extends, as seen with regard to the sides 6, 7 of the support leg 5, in a different direction than the at least one fastening leg 8.

[0051] The at least one top flap 13 extends from a front edge 14 of said support leg 5 in said top direction T. In the present preferred embodiment exactly two top flaps 13 are arranged. The at least one top flap 13 extends therefore in the same direction as the at least one fastening leg 8.

[0052] The at least one bottom flap 15 extends from the front edge 14 of said support leg 5 in said bottom direction B. In the present preferred embodiment exactly one bottom flap15 is arranged. The at least one bottom flap 15 extends, as seen with regard to the sides 6, 7 of the support leg 5, in a different direction than the at least one top flap 13. The at least one bottom flap 15 extends therefore in the same direction as the at least bottom leg 12.

[0053] The numbers of the fastening leg 8, the bottom leg 12, the top flap 13 and the bottom leg 15 can be different in other embodiments to the numbers as mentioned above.

[0054] The at least one fastening leg 8 and the at least one bottom leg 12 are adjoined by a bended portion 16, 17. A top bended portion 16 is bended towards said at least one top flap 13 and said top bended portion 16 adjoins said at least one fastening leg 8. A bottom bended portion 17 is bended towards said at least one bottom flap 15 and said bottom bended portion 17 adjoins said at least one bottom leg 15. As it can be seen from figure 4 the distance in a direction perpendicular to said top and / or bottom direction between the bended portion 16, 17 and the respective flap 13, 15 is smaller than the distance between the respective leg 8, 12 and the respective flap 13, 15. In other words: The respective bended portion 16, 17 is arranged such that the bended portion is directed from the respective leg 8, 12 towards the respective flap 13, 15

[0055] The at least one top flap 13 and the at least one bottom flap 15 are provided without any bended portions or bended sections. Instead the at least one top flap 13 and the at least one bottom flap 15 extend in a straight direction from the respective side 6, 7.

[0056] As it can be seen from figures 1 to 4 the top bended portion 16 is located at a free end 18 of said fastening leg 8 and the bottom bended portion 17 is located at a free end 19 of said bottom leg 12. Therefore the bended portions 16, 17 provide an end section of the respective leg 8, 12.

[0057] The respective bended portion 16, 17 comprises a first section 20 and a second section 21. The first section 21 extends at an angle α, alpha angularly inclined to said fastening leg 8 or said bottom leg 12, respectively. In the present case the angle α, alpha is 45°. The angle α, alpha can also be larger or smaller than 45° such as 40° or 50°. The second section 21 extends parallel to said fastening leg 8 or said bottom leg 12, respectively.

[0058] The at least one fastening leg 8 and the at least one bottom leg 12 each comprise a back face 22. The respective leg 12 is with this back face 22 in contact with the substructure 3. The back face 22 of the at least one fastening leg 8 and the back face 22 of the at least one bottom leg 12 lie in a common back plane. The bended portions 16, 17 are arranged such that they extend from said back plane towards the flaps 13, 15.

[0059] With regard to figure 3 several dimensional properties of the preferred embodiment are now explained.

[0060] The length of the top bended portion 16 adjoining the fastening leg 8 as seen in top direction is in the range of 1 / 4 to 1 / 8 of the overall length of the fastening leg 8 including the top bended portion. The length of the bottom bended portion 17 adjoining the respective bottom leg 12 as seen in bottom direction B is in the range of 1 / 4 to 1 / 8 of the overall length of the bottom leg 12 including the bottom bended portion 17. Preferably, the length of the fastening leg 8 including the top bended portion 16 is equal to the length of the bottom leg 12 including the bottom bended portion 17.

[0061] Preferably, the length of the bended portions 16, 17 is 6 millimetres and the length of the legs 8, 12 is 18 millimetres.

[0062] Preferably, the at least one bottom flap 12 has the same width as the at least one fastening leg 8. The width is preferably 20 millimetres.

[0063] Preferably, the at least one bottom flap 12 is as seen with regard to the support leg 5 arranged directly opposite of said at least one fastening leg 8.

[0064] Preferably, the at least one top flap 13 has the same width as the at least one bottom leg 12. The width is preferably 11 millimetres. It is preferred that the width of the top flap 13 and the bottom leg 12 is smaller than the width of the bottom flap 15 and the fastening leg 8.

[0065] Preferably, the at least one top flap 13 is as seen with regard to the support leg 5 arranged directly opposite of said at least one bottom leg 12.

[0066] As it can be seen from 3 the at least one fastening leg 8 and the at least one bottom flap 15 are located between two neighbouring bottom legs 12 and two neighbouring top flaps 13. Preferably each of the bottom legs 12 and each of the top flaps 13 are preferably arranged at a distance as seen in a direction perpendicular to said top direction T or said bottom direction N, respectively. The distances is indicated with an arrow Y in figure 3. The distance is preferably 2.5 millimetres.

[0067] As it can be seen in figure 4 the at least one top bended portion 16 and the at least one bottom bended portion 17 each comprise a support face 33, 34. The support face 33 of the at least one top bended portion 16 and the support face 34 of the at least one bottom bended portion 17 lie in a common support plane. The support faces 33, 34 are in contact with the back side of said façade board 2.

[0068] The distance E between said back face 22 and said support faces 33, 34 as in a direction perpendicular to the back plane is preferably between 2 and 4 millimetres.

[0069] Furthermore, the at least one top flap 13 and the at least one bottom flap 15 each comprise a front face 23, wherein the front face 13 of the at least one top flap 13 and the front face 23 of the at least one bottom flap 15 are arranged at a distance to each other as seen in a direction perpendicular to said top direction T or said bottom direction B, respectively. The distance can be seen in Figure 4 and it is indicated with the arrow X.

[0070] The at least one top flap 13 extends from said top side 6 with a top flap length and the at least one bottom flap 15 extends from bottom side 7 with a bottom flap length, wherein said top flap length is shorter than said bottom flap length; or wherein said top flap length is equal to said bottom flap length; or wherein said top flap length is longer than said bottom flap length. Preferably, said top flap length and / or said bottom flap length are between 3 and 12 millimetres, in particular between 3 and 8 millimetres.

[0071] With regard to figures 5, 6a / 6b further preferred details are now explained with regard to the fastener 1 as well as with regard to a fastener arrangement. The fastener arrangement comprises a fastener 1 and a fastening device 11. The fastening device 11 comprises a shaft section 24 and a head section 25. The head section 25 has a diameter that is larger than the shaft section 24. The shaft section 24 extends through the fastening opening 10 and the head section 25 is in contact with a front surface 26 of said fastening leg 8. This can be seen in figures 5 to 6b.

[0072] The top bended portion 16 is bended such that a front side 27 of the top bended portion 16 is located at a larger distance to the front side 26 of said fastening leg 27 than the height of the head section 25 in the same direction. Therefore the head section 25 is arranged such that it cannot be brought into contact with the façade board.

[0073] A façade structure as shown in figures 5, 6a / 6b comprises a plurality of fastener arrangements and a plurality of façade boards 2. Said façade board comprises a lower bearing section 28 and an upper bearing section 29.

[0074] Said lower bearing section 27 is beared by a lower fastener 1 of said fasteners. Said lower bearing section 27 comprises a groove 30 which receives said top flap 13 and a rear surface 30 which comes into contact with the top bended portion 16. The façade board further comprises a skirt section 35 which extends from the groove 30 in order to conceal the elements of the fastener in the mounted state.

[0075] Said upper bearing section 29 is beared by an upper fastener of said fasteners. Said upper bearing section comprises a front surface 31 which comes into contact with said bottom flap 15 and a rear surface 32 which comes into contact with said bottom bended portion 17.

[0076] From figure 5 the method to mount the façade structure is shown. In a first step at least one lower fastener 1 is mounted to the substructure 3. In a second step said façade board 2 is mounted with its lower bearing section 27 to the lower fastener 1. In a third step at least one upper fastener 1 is placed on the upper bearing section 29; and in a fourth step said at least one upper fastener is mounted the substructure 3.LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS

[0077] 1fastener 2façade board 3substructure 4facade system 5support leg 6top side 7bottom side 8fastening leg 9rear edge 10fastening opening 11fastening device 12bottom leg 13top flap 14front edge 15bottom flap 16top bended portion 17bottom bended portion 18free end of 8 19free end of 12 20first section 21second section 22back face 23front face 24shaft section 25head section 26front surface 27front side of 16 28lower bearing section 29upper bearing section 30groove 31front surface 32rear surface 33support face 34support face 35skirt section

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0046]Figures 1 to 4 show several different views of a fastener 1 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The fastener 1 is provided to fix a façade board 2 to a substructure 3 of a façade system 4. The façade system is shown in figures 5 to 6b.

[0047]With reference to figures 1 to 4 the fastener 1 is explained in detail as follows. The fastener 1 comprises a support leg 5, at least one fastening leg 8, at least one bottom leg 12, at least one top flap 13 and at least one bottom flap 15.

[0048]The support leg 5 comprises a top side 6 and a bottom side 7, which runs parallel to the bottom side. Thereby, the top side 6 is located above the bottom side 7. A top direction T extends perpendicular to the top side 6 and a bottom direction B extends perpendicular to the bottom side 7. In case the substructure 3 is mounted angularly inclined to the plumb line, the top side 6 and the bottom side 7 extend preferably in the horizontal. In case the substructure 3 is mounted a...

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a fastener for fixing a façade board to a substructure according to claim 1; to a fastener arrangement according to claim 13 and a façade structure according to claim 15.PRIOR ART

[0002] Fasteners to mount façade planks to a substructure are known from prior art. Such a fastener is for example disclosed by EP 2 947 234. The fastener as described in EP 2 947 234 is provided to mount cementitious boards to a frame. It further comprises hook shaped carrying means to carry said cementitious boards.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0003] It is an object of the present invention to provide a fastener for fixing a façade board to a substructure of a façade system which has advanced properties. In particular, the fastener shall allow to mount the façade boards in a defined plane.

[0004] This and other objects are solved by the fastener according to claim 1. Accordingly, a fastener for fixing a façade board to a substructure of a façade system comprises a support leg with a top side and a bottom side, at least one fastening leg extending from a rear edge of said support leg in a top direction and having a fastening opening to receive a fastening device, at least one bottom leg extending from the rear edge of said support leg in a bottom direction, at least one top flap extending from a front edge of said support leg in said top direction; and at least one bottom flap from the front edge of said support leg in said bottom direction.

[0005] Further, a top bended portion which is bended towards said at least one top flap, adjoins said at least one fastening leg and wherein a bottom bended portion which is bended towards said at least one bottom flap, adjoins said at least one bottom leg.

[0006] The façade board is preferably a façade plank having a length much longer than a width or a façade plate. The façade board is preferably made out of fibre-cement.

[0007] The top direction is a direction that extends perpendicular to the top side. The bottom direction is a direction that extends perpendicular to the bottom side. The top side and the bottom side extend parallel to each other. The front edge and the rear edge extend parallel to each other.

[0008] The angle between said top side and said fastening leg is preferably 90°. The angle between said top side and said top flap is preferably 90°. The angle between said bottom side and said bottom leg is preferably 90°. The angle between said bottom side and said bottom flap is preferably 90°.

[0009] In a mounted state the top direction extends preferably against the plumb line and the bottom direction extends preferably in plumb line. The fastener however, can also be mounted up-side-down. In the mounted state the front edge and the rear edged extend in the horizontal direction.

[0010] The fastening opening has preferably a diameter between 4 and 8 millimetres, in particular between 4 and 6 millimetres.

[0011] Preferably, the top bended portion is located at a free end of said fastening leg. Preferably, the bottom bended portion is located at a free end of said bottom leg.

[0012] Preferably, the respective bended portion, namely the top bended portion and the bottom bended portion comprises a first section and a second section. The first section extends at an angle (α, alpha) angularly inclined to said fastening leg or said bottom leg, respectively. Said second section extends parallel to said fastening leg or said bottom leg, respectively.

[0013] In other words, the second section provides a cranked portion of the bended portion with regard to the respective leg.

[0014] Preferably, said angle (α, alpha) is between 40° and 50°, in particular said angle is 45°.

[0015] Preferably, the respective bended portion is arranged such that the bended portion is directed from the respective leg towards the respective flap.

[0016] In other words, the top bended portion is bended away from the fastening leg and is directed towards the top flap. The bottom bended portion is bended away from the bottom leg and is directed towards the bottom flap.

[0017] Preferably, the at least one fastening leg and the at least one bottom leg each comprise a back face, wherein the back face of the at least one fastening leg and the back face of the at least one bottom leg lie in a common back plane. This enhances the bearing of the fastener on the substructure, as the fastener is in contact with the substructure over with the fastening leg and the bottom leg.

[0018] Preferably, the at least one top bended portion and the at least one bottom bended portion each comprise a support face, wherein the support face of the at least one top bended portion and the support face of the at least one bottom bended portion lie in a common support plane.

[0019] Preferably, the at least one top flap and the at least one bottom flap each comprise a front face, wherein the front face of the at least one top flap and the front face of the at least one bottom flap are arranged at a distance to each other as seen in a direction perpendicular to said top direction or said bottom direction, respectively.

[0020] Preferably, the length of the top bended portion adjoining the fastening leg as seen in top direction is in the range of 1 / 4 to 1 / 8 of the overall length of the fastening leg including the top bended portion. Preferably, the length of the bottom bended portion adjoining the respective bottom leg as seen in bottom direction is in the range of 1 / 4 to 1 / 8 of the overall length of the bottom leg including the bottom bended portion.

[0021] Preferably, the at least one bottom flap has the same width as the at least one fastening leg. Preferably, the at least one bottom flap is as seen with regard to the support leg arranged directly opposite of said at least one fastening leg.

[0022] Preferably, the at least one top flap has the same width as the at least one bottom leg. Preferably, the at least one top flap is as seen with regard to the support leg arranged directly opposite of said at least one bottom leg.

[0023] The term width is to be understood as being the dimension of the respective part in a direction perpendicular to the top direction or to the bottom direction.

[0024] Preferably, the at least one fastening leg and the at least one bottom flap are located between two neighbouring bottom legs and two neighbouring top flaps.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment exactly one fastening leg is arranged and exactly two top flaps are arranged on either side of the fastening leg. Further, exactly one bottom flap is arranged and exactly two bottom legs are arranged on either side of the fastening leg.

[0026] Preferably, each of the bottom legs and each of the top flaps are arranged at a distance as seen in a direction perpendicular to said top direction or said bottom direction, respectively. Said distance is preferably larger than 1 millimetre, in particular larger than 2 millimetres. In a preferred embodiment said distance is 2.5 millimetres.

[0027] Preferably, at least one fastening leg extends from said top side with a fastening leg length and the at least one bottom leg extends from said bottom side with a bottom leg length.

[0028] Preferably, said fastening leg length is equal to said bottom leg length.

[0029] Preferably, said fastening leg length and / or said bottom leg length are between 20 and 40 millimetres, in particular between 22 and 28 millimetres. In a preferred embodiment the fastening leg length and the bottom leg length are 24 millimetres.

[0030] Preferably, the at least one top flap extends from said top side with a top flap length and the at least one bottom flap extends from bottom side with a bottom flap length. Preferably, said top flap length and / or said bottom flap length are between 3 and 12 millimetres, in particular between 3 and 8 millimetres.

[0031] Preferably, said top flap length is shorter than said bottom flap length; or said top flap length is equal to said bottom flap length; or said top flap length is longer than said bottom flap length.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment the top flap length is 4 millimetres and bottom flap length is 6 millimetres.

[0033] The term length is to be understood as being the dimension of the respective part in direction of the top direction or of the bottom direction.

[0034] Preferably the fastener is made out of one piece.

[0035] Preferably, the fastener is made out of a steel sheet having a thickness of 0.5 millimetres to 2 millimetres, in particular 0.5 millimetres to 1.5 millimetres.

[0036] Preferably, the at least one fastening leg, the at least one bottom leg, the at least one top flap and the at least one bottom flap are bended with bending radius. The bending radius is preferably equal or smaller than the thickness of the steel sheet.

[0037] In other words as seen in a direction transverse to the top direction the bended portion of the fastening leg is located at a distance to the top flap; and / or as seen in a direction (D) transverse to the bottom direction (B) the bended portion of the bottom leg is located at a distance to the bottom flap.

[0038] Preferably, the fastener comprises several reinforcing deformations that are arranged to enhance the stiffness at the respective location, preferably, at least one of said reinforcing deformation is arranged between the support leg and the at least one fastening leg; and / or at least one of said reinforcing deformation is arranged between the support leg and the bottom leg; and / or at least one of said reinforcing deformation is arranged between the support leg and the at least one top flap; and / or at least one of said reinforcing deformation is arranged between the support leg and the at least one bottom flap.

[0039] A fastener arrangement comprising a fastener as described above and a fastening device. The fastening device comprises a shaft section and a head section, wherein the head section has a diameter that is larger than the shaft section, wherein the shaft section extends through the fastening opening and the head section is in contact with a front surface of said fastening leg.

[0040] Preferably, the top bended portion is bended such that a front side of the top bended portion is located at a larger distance to the front side of said fastening leg than the height of the head section in the same direction. This means that the head of the head section lies behind a plane that is provided by the support face of the top bended portion such that the façade board is not to be brought into contact with the head portion.

[0041] A façade structure comprises a plurality of fastener arrangements as described above and a plurality of façade boards. Said façade board comprises a lower bearing section and an upper bearing section. Said lower bearing section is beared by a lower fastener of said fastener, wherein said lower bearing section comprises a groove which receives said top flap and a rear surface which comes into contact with the top bended portion. Said upper bearing section is beared by an upper fastener of said fasteners, wherein said upper bearing section comprises a front surface which comes into contact with said bottom flap and a rear surface which comes into contact with said bottom bended portion.

[0042] The lower fastener is mounted underneath the upper fastener.

[0043] A method to mount a façade structure according to the description above is characterized in that in a first step at least one lower fastener is mounted to a substructure, in a second step said façade board is mounted with its lower bearing section to the lower fastener; in a third step at least one upper fastener is placed on the upper bearing section; and in a fourth step said at least one upper fastener is mounted the substructure.

[0044] Further embodiments of the invention are laid down in the dependent claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] Preferred embodiments of the invention are described in the following with reference to the drawings, which are for the purpose of illustrating the present preferred embodiments of the invention and not for the purpose of limiting the same. In the drawings, Fig. 1shows a perspective front view of a preferred embodiment of a fastener according to the present invention; Fig. 2shows a perspective back view of the fastener according to figure 1; Fig. 3shows a front view of the fastener according to figure 1; Fig. 4shows a side view of the fastener according to figure 1; Fig. 5shows a perspective view of a façade structure with fasteners according to the previous figures; Fig. 6ashows a perspective view of a mounting process to mount a façade board with the fasteners of the façade structure of figure 5; and Fig. 6bshows the perspective view of figure 6b. DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0046] Figures 1 to 4 show several different views of a fastener 1 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The fastener 1 is provided to fix a façade board 2 to a substructure 3 of a façade system 4. The façade system is shown in figures 5 to 6b.

[0047] With reference to figures 1 to 4 the fastener 1 is explained in detail as follows. The fastener 1 comprises a support leg 5, at least one fastening leg 8, at least one bottom leg 12, at least one top flap 13 and at least one bottom flap 15.

[0048] The support leg 5 comprises a top side 6 and a bottom side 7, which runs parallel to the bottom side. Thereby, the top side 6 is located above the bottom side 7. A top direction T extends perpendicular to the top side 6 and a bottom direction B extends perpendicular to the bottom side 7. In case the substructure 3 is mounted angularly inclined to the plumb line, the top side 6 and the bottom side 7 extend preferably in the horizontal. In case the substructure 3 is mounted angularly inclined to the plumb line, the top side 6 and the bottom side 7 are also mounted angularly inclined to the horizontal.

[0049] The at least one fastening leg 8 extends from a rear 9 of said support leg 5 in said top direction T. In the present preferred embodiment exactly one fastening leg 8 is arranged. The fastening leg 8 comprises a fastening opening 10. The fastening opening 10 is provided to receive a fastening device 11 in order to fasten the fastener 1 to the substructure 3. The fastening device 11 can be a nail or a screw or a rivet or a similar device.

[0050] The at least one bottom leg 12 extends from the rear edge 9 of said support leg 5 in said bottom direction B. In the present preferred embodiment exactly two bottom legs 12 are arranged. The at least one bottom leg 12 extends, as seen with regard to the sides 6, 7 of the support leg 5, in a different direction than the at least one fastening leg 8.

[0051] The at least one top flap 13 extends from a front edge 14 of said support leg 5 in said top direction T. In the present preferred embodiment exactly two top flaps 13 are arranged. The at least one top flap 13 extends therefore in the same direction as the at least one fastening leg 8.

[0052] The at least one bottom flap 15 extends from the front edge 14 of said support leg 5 in said bottom direction B. In the present preferred embodiment exactly one bottom flap15 is arranged. The at least one bottom flap 15 extends, as seen with regard to the sides 6, 7 of the support leg 5, in a different direction than the at least one top flap 13. The at least one bottom flap 15 extends therefore in the same direction as the at least bottom leg 12.

[0053] The numbers of the fastening leg 8, the bottom leg 12, the top flap 13 and the bottom leg 15 can be different in other embodiments to the numbers as mentioned above.

[0054] The at least one fastening leg 8 and the at least one bottom leg 12 are adjoined by a bended portion 16, 17. A top bended portion 16 is bended towards said at least one top flap 13 and said top bended portion 16 adjoins said at least one fastening leg 8. A bottom bended portion 17 is bended towards said at least one bottom flap 15 and said bottom bended portion 17 adjoins said at least one bottom leg 15. As it can be seen from figure 4 the distance in a direction perpendicular to said top and / or bottom direction between the bended portion 16, 17 and the respective flap 13, 15 is smaller than the distance between the respective leg 8, 12 and the respective flap 13, 15. In other words: The respective bended portion 16, 17 is arranged such that the bended portion is directed from the respective leg 8, 12 towards the respective flap 13, 15

[0055] The at least one top flap 13 and the at least one bottom flap 15 are provided without any bended portions or bended sections. Instead the at least one top flap 13 and the at least one bottom flap 15 extend in a straight direction from the respective side 6, 7.

[0056] As it can be seen from figures 1 to 4 the top bended portion 16 is located at a free end 18 of said fastening leg 8 and the bottom bended portion 17 is located at a free end 19 of said bottom leg 12. Therefore the bended portions 16, 17 provide an end section of the respective leg 8, 12.

[0057] The respective bended portion 16, 17 comprises a first section 20 and a second section 21. The first section 21 extends at an angle α, alpha angularly inclined to said fastening leg 8 or said bottom leg 12, respectively. In the present case the angle α, alpha is 45°. The angle α, alpha can also be larger or smaller than 45° such as 40° or 50°. The second section 21 extends parallel to said fastening leg 8 or said bottom leg 12, respectively.

[0058] The at least one fastening leg 8 and the at least one bottom leg 12 each comprise a back face 22. The respective leg 12 is with this back face 22 in contact with the substructure 3. The back face 22 of the at least one fastening leg 8 and the back face 22 of the at least one bottom leg 12 lie in a common back plane. The bended portions 16, 17 are arranged such that they extend from said back plane towards the flaps 13, 15.

[0059] With regard to figure 3 several dimensional properties of the preferred embodiment are now explained.

[0060] The length of the top bended portion 16 adjoining the fastening leg 8 as seen in top direction is in the range of 1 / 4 to 1 / 8 of the overall length of the fastening leg 8 including the top bended portion. The length of the bottom bended portion 17 adjoining the respective bottom leg 12 as seen in bottom direction B is in the range of 1 / 4 to 1 / 8 of the overall length of the bottom leg 12 including the bottom bended portion 17. Preferably, the length of the fastening leg 8 including the top bended portion 16 is equal to the length of the bottom leg 12 including the bottom bended portion 17.

[0061] Preferably, the length of the bended portions 16, 17 is 6 millimetres and the length of the legs 8, 12 is 18 millimetres.

[0062] Preferably, the at least one bottom flap 12 has the same width as the at least one fastening leg 8. The width is preferably 20 millimetres.

[0063] Preferably, the at least one bottom flap 12 is as seen with regard to the support leg 5 arranged directly opposite of said at least one fastening leg 8.

[0064] Preferably, the at least one top flap 13 has the same width as the at least one bottom leg 12. The width is preferably 11 millimetres. It is preferred that the width of the top flap 13 and the bottom leg 12 is smaller than the width of the bottom flap 15 and the fastening leg 8.

[0065] Preferably, the at least one top flap 13 is as seen with regard to the support leg 5 arranged directly opposite of said at least one bottom leg 12.

[0066] As it can be seen from 3 the at least one fastening leg 8 and the at least one bottom flap 15 are located between two neighbouring bottom legs 12 and two neighbouring top flaps 13. Preferably each of the bottom legs 12 and each of the top flaps 13 are preferably arranged at a distance as seen in a direction perpendicular to said top direction T or said bottom direction N, respectively. The distances is indicated with an arrow Y in figure 3. The distance is preferably 2.5 millimetres.

[0067] As it can be seen in figure 4 the at least one top bended portion 16 and the at least one bottom bended portion 17 each comprise a support face 33, 34. The support face 33 of the at least one top bended portion 16 and the support face 34 of the at least one bottom bended portion 17 lie in a common support plane. The support faces 33, 34 are in contact with the back side of said façade board 2.

[0068] The distance E between said back face 22 and said support faces 33, 34 as in a direction perpendicular to the back plane is preferably between 2 and 4 millimetres.

[0069] Furthermore, the at least one top flap 13 and the at least one bottom flap 15 each comprise a front face 23, wherein the front face 13 of the at least one top flap 13 and the front face 23 of the at least one bottom flap 15 are arranged at a distance to each other as seen in a direction perpendicular to said top direction T or said bottom direction B, respectively. The distance can be seen in Figure 4 and it is indicated with the arrow X.

[0070] The at least one top flap 13 extends from said top side 6 with a top flap length and the at least one bottom flap 15 extends from bottom side 7 with a bottom flap length, wherein said top flap length is shorter than said bottom flap length; or wherein said top flap length is equal to said bottom flap length; or wherein said top flap length is longer than said bottom flap length. Preferably, said top flap length and / or said bottom flap length are between 3 and 12 millimetres, in particular between 3 and 8 millimetres.

[0071] With regard to figures 5, 6a / 6b further preferred details are now explained with regard to the fastener 1 as well as with regard to a fastener arrangement. The fastener arrangement comprises a fastener 1 and a fastening device 11. The fastening device 11 comprises a shaft section 24 and a head section 25. The head section 25 has a diameter that is larger than the shaft section 24. The shaft section 24 extends through the fastening opening 10 and the head section 25 is in contact with a front surface 26 of said fastening leg 8. This can be seen in figures 5 to 6b.

[0072] The top bended portion 16 is bended such that a front side 27 of the top bended portion 16 is located at a larger distance to the front side 26 of said fastening leg 27 than the height of the head section 25 in the same direction. Therefore the head section 25 is arranged such that it cannot be brought into contact with the façade board.

[0073] A façade structure as shown in figures 5, 6a / 6b comprises a plurality of fastener arrangements and a plurality of façade boards 2. Said façade board comprises a lower bearing section 28 and an upper bearing section 29.

[0074] Said lower bearing section 27 is beared by a lower fastener 1 of said fasteners. Said lower bearing section 27 comprises a groove 30 which receives said top flap 13 and a rear surface 30 which comes into contact with the top bended portion 16. The façade board further comprises a skirt section 35 which extends from the groove 30 in order to conceal the elements of the fastener in the mounted state.

[0075] Said upper bearing section 29 is beared by an upper fastener of said fasteners. Said upper bearing section comprises a front surface 31 which comes into contact with said bottom flap 15 and a rear surface 32 which comes into contact with said bottom bended portion 17.

[0076] From figure 5 the method to mount the façade structure is shown. In a first step at least one lower fastener 1 is mounted to the substructure 3. In a second step said façade board 2 is mounted with its lower bearing section 27 to the lower fastener 1. In a third step at least one upper fastener 1 is placed on the upper bearing section 29; and in a fourth step said at least one upper fastener is mounted the substructure 3.LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS

[0077] 1fastener 2façade board 3substructure 4facade system 5support leg 6top side 7bottom side 8fastening leg 9rear edge 10fastening opening 11fastening device 12bottom leg 13top flap 14front edge 15bottom flap 16top bended portion 17bottom bended portion 18free end of 8 19free end of 12 20first section 21second section 22back face 23front face 24shaft section 25head section 26front surface 27front side of 16 28lower bearing section 29upper bearing section 30groove 31front surface 32rear surface 33support face 34support face 35skirt section

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0046]Figures 1 to 4 show several different views of a fastener 1 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The fastener 1 is provided to fix a façade board 2 to a substructure 3 of a façade system 4. The façade system is shown in figures 5 to 6b.

[0047]With reference to figures 1 to 4 the fastener 1 is explained in detail as follows. The fastener 1 comprises a support leg 5, at least one fastening leg 8, at least one bottom leg 12, at least one top flap 13 and at least one bottom flap 15.

[0048]The support leg 5 comprises a top side 6 and a bottom side 7, which runs parallel to the bottom side. Thereby, the top side 6 is located above the bottom side 7. A top direction T extends perpendicular to the top side 6 and a bottom direction B extends perpendicular to the bottom side 7. In case the substructure 3 is mounted angularly inclined to the plumb line, the top side 6 and the bottom side 7 extend preferably in the horizontal. In case the substructure 3 is mounted a...

Claims

1. Fastener (1) for fixing a façade board (2) to a substructure (3) of a façade system (4) comprising a support leg (5) with a top side (6) and a bottom side (7); at least one fastening leg (8) extending from a rear edge (9) of said support leg (5) in a top direction (T) and having a fastening opening (10) to receive a fastening device (11), at least one bottom leg (12) extending from the rear edge (9) of said support leg (5) in a bottom direction (B), at least one top flap (13) extending from a front edge (14) of said support leg (5) in said top direction (T); and at least one bottom flap (15) from the front edge (14) of said support leg (5) in said bottom direction (B); wherein a top bended portion (16) which is bended towards said at least one top flap (13), adjoins said at least one fastening leg (8) and wherein a bottom bended portion (17) which is bended towards said at least one bottom flap (15), adjoins said at least one bottom leg (15).

2. Fastener (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the top bended portion (16) is located at a free end (18) of said fastening leg (8) and / or in that the bottom bended portion (17) is located at a free end (19) of said bottom leg (12).

3. Fastener (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the respective bended portion (16, 17) comprises a first section (20) and a second section (21), wherein the first section (21) extends at an angle (α, alpha) angularly inclined to said fastening leg (8) or said bottom leg (12), respectively, and wherein said second section (21) extends parallel to said fastening leg (8) or said bottom leg (12), respectively.

4. Fastener (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that said angle (α, alpha) is between 40° and 50°, in particular 45°.

5. Fastener (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the respective bended portion (16, 17) is arranged such that the bended portion is directed from the respective leg (8, 12) towards the respective flap (13, 15); and / or in that the at least one fastening leg (8) and the at least one bottom leg (12) each comprise a back face (22), wherein the back face (22) of the at least one fastening leg (8) and the back face (22) of the at least one bottom leg (12) lie in a common back plane; and / or in that the at least one top bended portion (16) and the at least one bottom bended portion (17) each comprise a support face (33, 34), wherein the support face (33) of the at least one top bended portion (16) and the support face (34) of the at least one bottom bended portion (17) lie in a common support plane; and / or in that the at least one top flap (13) and the at least one bottom flap (15) each comprise a front face (23), wherein the front face (13) of the at least one top flap (13) and the front face (23) of the at least one bottom flap (15) are arranged at a distance to each other as seen in a direction perpendicular to said top direction (T) or said bottom direction (B), respectively.

6. Fastener (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the length of the top bended portion (16) adjoining the fastening leg (8) as seen in top direction is in the range of 1 / 4 to 1 / 8 of the overall length of the fastening leg (8) including the top bended portion (16); and / or in that the length of the bottom bended portion (17) adjoining the respective bottom leg (12) as seen in bottom direction (B) is in the range of 1 / 4 to 1 / 8 of the overall length of the bottom leg (12) including the bottom bended portion (17).

7. Fastener (1) according any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one bottom flap (12) has the same width as the at least one fastening leg (8); and / or in that the at least one bottom flap (12) is as seen with regard to the support leg (5) arranged directly opposite of said at least one fastening leg (8).

8. Fastener (1) according any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one top flap (13) has the same width as the at least one bottom leg (12) and / or in that the at least one top flap (13) is as seen with regard to the support leg (5) arranged directly opposite of said at least one bottom leg (12).

9. Fastener (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one fastening leg (8) and the at least one bottom flap (15) are located between two neighbouring bottom legs (12) and two neighbouring top flaps (13), wherein each of the bottom legs (12) and each of the top flaps (13) are preferably arranged at a distance as seen in a direction perpendicular to said top direction (T) or said bottom direction (B), respectively10. Fastener (1) according any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one fastening leg (8) extends from said top side (6) with a fastening leg length (L8) and the at least one bottom leg (12) extends from said bottom side (7) with a bottom leg length, wherein said fastening leg length is preferably equal to said bottom leg length, and / or wherein said fastening leg length including the length of the bended portion and / or said bottom leg length including the length of the bended portion are preferably between 20 and 40 millimetres, in particular between 22 and 28 millimetres;11. Fastener (1) according any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one top flap (13) extends from said top side (6) with a top flap length and the at least one bottom flap (15) extends from bottom side (7) with a bottom flap length, wherein said top flap length and / or said bottom flap length are preferably between 3 and 12 millimetres, in particular between 3 and 8 millimetres; wherein said top flap length is shorter than said bottom flap length; or wherein said top flap length is equal to said bottom flap length; or wherein said top flap length is longer than said bottom flap length.

12. Fastener (1) according any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fastener (1) comprises several reinforcing deformations that are arranged to enhance the stiffness at the respective location, wherein at least one of said reinforcing deformation is arranged between the support leg (5) and the at least one fastening leg (8); and / or wherein at least one of said reinforcing deformation is arranged between the support leg (5) and the bottom leg (12); and / or wherein at least one of said reinforcing deformation is arranged between the support leg (5) and the at least one top flap (13); and / or wherein at least one of said reinforcing deformation is arranged between the support leg (5) and the at least one bottom flap (15).

13. Fastener arrangement comprising a fastener (1) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims and a fastening device (11), wherein the fastening device (11) comprises a shaft section (24) and a head section (25), wherein the head section (25) has a diameter that is larger than the shaft section (24), wherein the shaft section (24) extends through the fastening opening (10) and the head section (25) is in contact with a front surface (26) of said fastening leg (8).

14. Fastener arrangement according to claim 13, wherein the top bended portion (16) is bended such that a front side (27) of the top bended portion (16) is located at a larger distance to the front side (26) of said fastening leg (27) than the height (H) of the head section (25) in the same direction.

15. Façade structure comprising a plurality of fastener arrangements as claimed in claims 13 and 14 and a plurality of façade boards (2), wherein said façade board comprises a lower bearing section (28) and an upper bearing section (29), wherein said lower bearing section (28) is beared by a lower fastener of said fastener, wherein said lower bearing section (28) comprises a groove (30) which receives said top flap (13) and a rear surface (30) which comes into contact with the top bended portion (16), wherein said upper bearing section (29) is beared by an upper fastener of said fasteners, wherein said upper bearing section comprises a front surface (31) which comes into contact with said bottom flap (15) and a rear surface (32) which comes into contact with said bottom bended portion (17).

16. Method to mount a façade structure according to claim 15, characterized in that in a first step at least one lower fastener is mounted to a substructure (3), in a second step said façade board (2) is mounted with its lower bearing section (82) to the lower fastener (1); in a third step at least one upper fastener is placed on the upper bearing section; and in a fourth step said at least one upper fastener is mounted the substructure.

Images