A kit of covering members, a method of manufacturing a kit of covering members, and use of the kit of covering members
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- EP · EP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- VKR HOLDING AS
- Filing Date
- 2025-10-06
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-17
AI Technical Summary
Existing covering members for roof windows on sloped roofs are prone to sliding during installation due to their design, leading to material waste and increased resource consumption, and there is a need for more sustainable and efficient manufacturing methods.
The design of covering members with engagement sections confined within their total height and width, allowing for reduced material usage and efficient handling, featuring integral engagement sections that do not project beyond the main sections, and can be temporarily engaged with other members or the roof structure.
This design reduces material waste, enhances handling flexibility, and improves installation efficiency while minimizing the risk of components slipping during installation.
Smart Images

Figure IMGAF001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a kit of covering members for use with a set of roof windows, each roof window of said set having four sides defining a roof window plane and a pane covering an opening in said roof window plane; where said kit comprises a least a first covering member and a second covering member, each of said first covering member and said second covering member defining a length axis, a height axis, and a width axis and being configured for being arranged along a side of a roof window of the set of roof windows with the length axis extending in parallel with said side of said roof window, the width axis extending away from said roof window, and the height axis extending perpendicularly to the roof window plane of said roof window, each first covering member and second covering member having a total height along the height axis and a total width along the width axis; where at least the first covering member is formed from a blank of a sheet material, and where holding means are provided on at least the first covering member, said holding means being configured to bring the first covering member in at least temporary engagement with one or more of: the second covering member, a third covering member, a roof window of said set of roof windows, and a roof structure in which the set of roof windows is installed. The invention furthermore relates to a method of manufacturing a kit of covering members.Background Art
[0002] Generally, in the field of installation of roof penetrating structures there is a need to provide convenient covering solutions that provide weatherproofing, in particular in a transition region between the roof and the roof penetrating structures. In the following, reference will be made primarily to roof windows, but it is to be understood that many of the embodiments disclosed will also be applicable to other roof penetrating structures.
[0003] Since roof windows are mounted in sloped roofs, i.e., roofs having an angle of inclination of typically 20-60° with the horizontal, there is a potential risk of any components handled on the installation site sliding downwards. Covering members forming part of flashing or covering assemblies will most often need to be handled on the sloped roof and may slip down unless the installer holds on to it. This effect is particularly pronounced in covering members located in parallel with the slope direction, along the side members of the frame. In order to overcome this challenge, covering members of the prior have often been provided with additional flaps that are riveted or clamped onto the covering member in question and in turn connected to either an already fixated covering member, to the roof window itself, or to the roof structure.
[0004] With increasing awareness of sustainability, requirements for utilisation of material and optimisation of manufacturing resources have increased, resulting in a desire for kits of covering members and methods of manufacturing where the resource consumption is reduced.Summary
[0005] With this background, it is therefore an object to provide a kit of covering members which can be manufactured using less material and consequently to provide an improved method of manufacturing such a kit.
[0006] In a first aspect, this and further objects are achieved with a kit of covering members of the kind mentioned in the introduction which is furthermore characterised in that the holding means comprises an engagement section of the first covering member, said engagement section being confined within the total height and the total width of the first covering member in a state of delivery of the kit.
[0007] Providing an engagement section, which is confined within the total height and the total width of the first covering member, means that the engagement section does not project beyond other sections of the first covering member in the state of the delivery. This not only has the advantage that the engagement section is less exposed to damage during transport and handling of the packed kit. It also means that the first covering member can be made with a reduced material consumption, as a blank used for the manufacture of the first covering member does not need to be higher or wider than required for the manufacture of the main sections of the first covering member, thereby reducing the need for removing and discarding material during the manufacturing process.
[0008] Many covering members for use with roof windows are of an overall rectangular shape or having an L-shaped cross-section, where each leg of the L-shape is substantially of a rectangular shape. Other covering members are composed of two or more L-shaped components. Common to them all are that they have two outer edges defining a total width of said covering member along the width axis, and those including an L-shaped component, also have an upper edge and a lower edge defining a total height of said covering member along the height axis. The outer, upper, and lower edges typically extend over the majority of the length of the covering member. Many such covering members are therefore made from strips of material, which is cut to create the end edges extending between the outer, upper, and lower edges. In such cases, the creation of an engagement section projecting at an outer, upper, or lower edge will typically mean that material will have to be remove over the entire remaining length of the covering member, the removed material typically having a surface area of at least five times the surface area of the engagement section. As most covering members are made from aluminium, which is easily recycled, this has not previously been considered a problem, but with the increased focus on resource consumption it has been realized that a substantial amount of energy is in fact used for collecting, transporting, and recycling such waste.
[0009] The outer, upper, and lower edges referred to as defining the total width and the total height of the first covering member may also be referred to as peripheries of the first covering member. A still further advantage of reducing the need for removing material along the outer, upper, and lower edges is that the risk of waste material being caught in manufacturing equipment is reduced, potentially leading to a reduced need for cleaning and maintenance.
[0010] By providing at least the first covering member of the kit of covering members with an engagement section formed as an integral portion of the first covering member, manufacture, transportation, and installation are all rendered more flexible and efficient. The first covering member, and optionally also the second covering member, may thus be handled as respective one-piece components throughout.
[0011] In a second aspect, the above and further objects are achieved with a method of manufacturing a kit of covering members for use with a set of roof windows, said method comprising the steps of: A) Providing a first blank and a second blank, each of the first blank and the second blank having a first longitudinal side and a second longitudinal side, said second longitudinal side being substantially parallel to the first longitudinal side, B) Forming a first covering member from the first blank, C) Forming a second covering member from the second blank, where each of said first covering member and said second covering member defining a length axis, a height axis, and a width axis and being configured for being arranged along a side of a roof window of the set of roof windows with the length axis extending in parallel with said side of said roof window, the width axis extending away from said roof window, and the height axis extending perpendicularly to the roof window plane of said roof window, each first covering member and second covering member having a total height along the height axis and a total width along the width axis, where, during step B, the first covering member is provided with holding means configured to bring the first covering member in at least temporary engagement with one or more of: the second covering member, a third covering member, a roof window of said set of roof windows, and a roof structure in which the set of roof windows is installed, and where the holding means comprises an engagement section of the first covering member, said engagement section being confined within the total height and the total width of the first covering member.
[0012] The advantages of the invention described above with reference to the first aspect also applies to the second aspect, and in the following a common description of embodiments and advantages of both aspects will be given, reflecting that both aspects relate to the same invention.
[0013] In one embodiment, the first covering member and / or the second covering member is formed from a blank made from metal. The metal may be aluminium, copper, zinc, stainless steel, an alloy, or any other metal suitable for weather exposure. The blank(s) may be provided with a surface covering, such as a paint or lacquer, prior to the formation of the first covering member and / or second covering member.
[0014] As mentioned above, at least one of the first blank and the second blank may form part of a strip, which is longer than the total length of the first covering member or second covering member formed from the respective blank. Such strips may be supplied as rolls of sheet material having a constant thickness.
[0015] In one embodiment, the engagement section is formed when separating the first blank from the strip and / or the receiving section, if any, is formed when separating the second blank from the strip. This is particularly advantageous when the engagement section is a flap or a flange.
[0016] A strip of material will have a certain width, which may be referred to as bandwidth. When the engagement section is confined within the total height and the total width of the covering member, i.e., being located between the outer, upper, and lower edges of the covering member, the entire bandwidth can be used for the manufacture of the main sections of the covering member, reducing the amount of material to be removed as also described above. The main sections may also be referred to as functional sections.
[0017] Depending on the materials used, the first covering member and / or the second covering member may for example be formed by folding, roll-forming, pressing, and / or drawing of the first blank and / or the second blank, and the engagement section and / or the receiving section may for example be formed by punching, cutting, pressing, and / or drawing.
[0018] Particularly in embodiments, where the engagement section is a flap or a flange, the engagement section can be moved from a delivery position to a use position, the engagement section being confined within the total height and the total width of the first covering member when in the delivery position and extending beyond the total height and the total width of the first covering member when in the use position.
[0019] The flaps or flanges referred to are to be understood as substantially flat sections of material extending from another section of the covering member. Terms such as lug or ear may also be used to describe such sections.
[0020] The use position may also be referred to as an active position or an active state, and the delivery position may also be referred to as a passive position or a passive state.
[0021] The movement of the engagement section from the delivery position to the use position may comprise bending of the engagement section or a section of the first covering member adjacent to the engagement section. To facilitate such bending, the engagement section may be delimited by at least one weakening, such as an incision, an opening, or a depression, configured to serve as a hinge.
[0022] Movement of the engagement section from a delivery position to a use position can be done before and / or simultaneously with step II depending on the way in which the first covering member is installed. If the engagement section is to be brought into engagement with a roof window or a roof structure, it may be advantageous to move the engagement section after having arranged the first covering member along a side of a roof window. If the engagement section is to be brought into engagement with a second or third covering member, it may be advantageous to move the engagement section to the use position before arranging the first covering member.
[0023] In another embodiment, the engagement section is a dent, a bulge, or a ridge formed by displacement of material relative to another section of the covering member. Such embodiments are advantageous in that they will typically require no removal of material and no manipulation of the engagement section during use of the kit.
[0024] In some embodiments, the second covering member is provided with a receiving section forming part of the holding means and configured for engagement with the engagement section of the first covering member. The receiving section may comprise at least one of an opening, a depression, a slit, and a recess designed to receive the engagement section. As will be described in detail with reference to exemplary embodiments below, an engagement section in form of a flap or flange may engage with virtually any kind of receiving section, while an engagement section in the form of a dent, bulge, or ridge will typically engage with an opening or a depression.
[0025] The receiving section may be configured for preventing movement of the first covering member by providing an edge or other surface against which the engagement section may rest or abut and / or be configured for allowing a snap-locking engagement with the engagement section.
[0026] In some embodiments, the second covering member is arranged along a side of a roof window of a set of roof windows separate from the first covering member with the length axis of the second covering member extending in parallel with said side of said roof window, the width axis extending away from said roof window, and the height axis extending perpendicularly to the roof window plane of said roof window. In other embodiments, the first covering member and the second covering member are interconnected, forming a single unit in a state of delivery of the kit. This, however, does not exclude that the engagement section may be configured to bring the first covering member in at least temporary engagement with the second covering member. This may for example be advantageous in embodiments, where the first covering member and the second covering member are displaceable in relation to each other along the length axis, the width axis and / or the height axis while remaining interconnected.
[0027] When the first covering member and the second covering member are arranged separately, the first covering member may be displaced relative to the second covering member or the second covering member may be displaced relative to the first covering member along at least one of the length axis, the height axis, and the width axis during the installation. This displacement may contribute to or result in that the engagement section is brought into engagement with the second covering member, a third covering member, a roof window of said set of roof windows, and / or a roof structure in which the set of roof windows is installed. The displacement may for example result in the engagement section sliding into a recess or gap serving as the receiving section, in the engagement section sliding over and / or hooking onto a flange or an edge serving as the receiving section, in the engagement section moving into an opening serving as the receiving section.
[0028] Above, reference has been made to covering members as a common denominator for all of the shell-like members used in a kit for weatherproofing a roof window, including those normally referred to as flashing members and cladding members. In the following, reference will be made primarily to flashing members, and it is to be understood that these are examples of covering members.Brief Description of Drawings
[0029] In the following description, embodiments will be described with reference to the schematic drawings, in which Fig. 1 is a perspective schematic view of two roof windows mounted side by side with a prior art flashing assembly adapted by the incorporation of reference numerals corresponding to embodiments of the present invention; Fig. 2 is a perspective schematic view of two roof windows mounted side by side with another prior art flashing assembly; Fig. 3 is a perspective schematic view of four roof windows mounted two by two in a matrix configuration with a prior art flashing assembly, adapted by the incorporation of reference numerals corresponding to embodiments of the present invention; Fig. 4 shows a partial perspective view of an assembled kit of covering members in an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 5 shows an exploded partial perspective view of the kit of covering members of the embodiment of Fig. 4; Figs. 6 to 9 shows details of the kit of covering members of the embodiment of Figs. 4 and 5; Fig. 10 is partial perspective view of a set of roof windows during an installation step of a kit of covering members in an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 11 is a partial side sectional view showing a set of roof windows during an installation step of a kit of covering members in an embodiment of the invention; Figs. 12 and 13 are partial perspective views of a first covering member of a kit of covering members in an embodiment of the invention; Figs. 14 to 17 show partial perspective views of a longitudinal end of a first covering member of a kit of covering members in an embodiment of the invention, in an unfolded state, a passive folded state, an active folded state, and details of the passive folded state, respectively; Figs. 18A to 21B show schematic views of engagement sections of covering members of a kit of covering members in embodiments of the invention; Fig. 22 shows a partial plan view of a first covering member of a kit of covering members in an embodiment of the invention, in a state of delivery; Fig. 23 is a view corresponding to Fig. 22, of the first covering member in engagement with a second covering member, in a mounted condition corresponding to a state of use; Figs. 24 to 26 show partial plan views of a first covering member of a kit of covering members in further embodiments of the invention, in a state of delivery; Fig. 27 shows a first covering member and a second covering member in another embodiment of the kit of covering members according to the invention, during a step of installation; Fig. 28 shows a partial perspective view of a first covering member and a second covering member in a still further embodiment of the kit of covering members according to the invention, during a step of installation; Fig. 29 shows a partial perspective view of a first covering member and a second covering member in yet another embodiment of the kit of covering members according to the invention, during a step of installation; and Fig. 30 is a schematic side view of a first covering member and a second covering member in a still yet further embodiment of the kit of covering members according to the invention, during a step of installation. Description of Embodiments
[0030] In the following detailed description, embodiments of the present invention will be described. However, it is to be understood that features of the different embodiments are exchangeable between the embodiments and may be combined in different ways, unless anything else is specifically indicated. It may also be noted that, for the sake of clarity, the dimensions of certain components illustrated in the drawings may differ from the corresponding dimensions in real-life implementations.
[0031] It is noted that terms such as "up", "down", "left-hand", "right-hand", "exterior", "interior", "outer", "inner" are relative and refers to the viewpoint in question. When referred to an exterior side, this relates to a side of a roof window in the mounted condition facing the outdoors or external side of the building. Conversely, an interior side refers to a side facing the internal side of the building, i.e. typically a subjacent room including any light shaft. Terms such as "outwards" and "inwards" are directions generally perpendicular to an interior-exterior direction, taking as its base point a centre of the roof window. A longitudinal direction is, if nothing else is mentioned, longitudinal along the length of a frame member of the roof window. It is to be understood that the arrangement shown in a horizontal orientation is not the normal orientation as the roof window is installed in an inclined roof.
[0032] The terms "top" and "bottom", "higher" and "lower", "above" and "below", and "uppermost" and "lowermost" are to be understood as positions relative to the slope of the roof structure in the mounted state of the kit of covering members and / or the roof window. This for example means that in the mounted state a top member will be located above a bottom member in a vertical direction and that a roof window mounted above another roof window will be located higher than the other roof window in a vertical direction.
[0033] It is furthermore noted that the invention refers to a kit of covering members. Such covering members may form part of a flashing assembly but may also constitute, form part of, or replace traditional covering members such as claddings. For easy reading, the kit of covering members will be referred to as flashing members, parts of a flashing assembly etc. and only where relevant be referred in another manner.General description of prior art flashing assemblies - Figs. 1 to 3
[0034] Referring initially to Fig. 1, a prior art flashing assembly 1 for use with two roof windows mounted adjacent to each other side by side in a sloped roof structure 3 is shown. Fig. 1 corresponds in substance to Fig. 1 of Applicant's above-mentioned EP 0 087 647 B1 while reference numbers have been updated and the roof structure 3 have been added.
[0035] As the construction of the roof windows is not of importance in the present context, they are here represented only by two frames 2 of the two neighbouring roof windows, each frame 2 comprising a top frame member 21 and a bottom frame member 22 both extending horizontally in the mounted state and two side frame members 23, 24 extending in a slope direction of the roof structure in the mounted state. The top frame member 21, the bottom frame member 24 and the two side frame members 22, 23 form four sides of the respective roof window 2a, 2b, which define a roof window plane.
[0036] Not shown is a pane covering an opening of the roof window in the roof window plane.
[0037] Such a pane may be encased in a pane-carrying sash which is fixedly or openly connected to the frame of the roof window.
[0038] Likewise, the roof structure 3 is represented only by a single rafter and a few laths and the slope direction is indicated by the arrow D.
[0039] The flashing assembly 1 comprises two top flashing members 11 each configured for extending along a top frame member 21, two bottom flashing members 12 each configured for extending along a bottom frame member 22, two side flashing members 13, 14 each configured for extending along a side frame member 23, 24, and a middle gutter flashing member 15 configured for extending between the two roof windows to cover a gap formed by a spacing between the neighbouring frames 2. Common to all flashing members is that they comprise an outer portion 111, 121, 131, 141, 151 configured for extending substantially in plane with the roof structure and at least one inner portion 112, 122, 132, 142, 152 configured for extending up along a frame member of a roof window. Each an outer portion extends along a width axis of the respective flashing member, away from the respective roof window, and each inner portion extends along a height axis of the respective flashing member, perpendicularly to a roof window plane defined by the frame members of the roof window. The inner and outer portions may be referred to as main sections of the flashing member.
[0040] The top flashing members 11 and the bottom flashing members 12 are provided with corner sections, 113, 114, 123, 124 configured for establishing an overlap with the side flashing members 13, 14 and the middle gutter flashing member 15, and cover members 16, 17 are provided for interconnecting the corner sections 114 of the top flashing members above the middle gutter flashing member.
[0041] In Fig. 1, the flashing assembly 1 is configured for use with roof windows mounted deep in a roof structure, and the side flashing members 13, 14 are configured specifically for use at a left-hand side frame member 23 and at a right-hand side flashing member 24 of a roof window, respectively. The same applies to the two top flashing members 11 and the two bottom flashing members 12.
[0042] References to "right" and "left" are to be understood as references to the flashing assemblies and the frames of roof windows as shown in the drawing, and thus as seen by a person viewing them from outside a building in which they are mounted.
[0043] Fig. 2 shows a flashing assembly 1 similar to that in Fig. 1. Fig. 2 corresponds to Fig. 2 of Applicant's above-mentioned EP 4 417 761 A1. The flashing members 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 are here shown in simplified versions, where the top, bottom, and side flashing members 11, 12, 13, 14 have a simple L-shape in cross-section and the middle gutter flashing member 15 has a simple U-shape in cross-section, but it is to be understood that they may represent more sophisticated flashing members, such as those shown in Fig. 1. Several possible embodiments of such flashing members are well known to the skilled person and will therefore not be described in further detail here.
[0044] The flashing assembly in Fig. 2 consists of two sets of flashing members; a first set I including one top flashing member 11, one bottom flashing member 12, and two side flashing members 13, 14, and a second set II including one middle gutter flashing member 15, one top flashing member 11, and one bottom flashing member 12. The first set I is a standard flashing assembly of the type used for a single roof window mounted alone in a roof structure, whereas the second set II comprises the supplementary flashing members needed for weatherproofing two roof windows mounted side by side as indicated by the two roof window frames 2a, 2b.
[0045] The broken lines encircling each set of flashing members are to be understood as an indication that the sets are packaged in separate packaging elements.
[0046] As shown by the arrows in Fig. 2, the top flashing member 11, the bottom flashing member 12, and the left-hand side flashing member 13 of the first set I are mounted at the left-hand frame 2a in the same way as they would have been if used with a single roof window. Had the left-hand roof window been a single roof window, the right-hand side flashing member 14 of the first set I would have been mounted along the right-hand side frame member 24 of frame 2a. In this case, however, the right-hand side flashing member 14 is mounted at the right-hand side frame member 24 of the right-hand frame 2b, i.e. at the corresponding frame member of the second roof window, on the opposite side of the second roof window compared to its intended position on a single roof window.
[0047] The middle gutter flashing member 15 of the second set II is mounted between the two roof window frames 2a, 2b, covering the gap between them occasioned by the spacing between the frames 2a, 2b, and the top flashing member 11 and the bottom flashing member 12 of the second set II are mounted at the top and bottom of the right-hand roof window frame 2b.
[0048] It is to be understood that it would work equally well to mount the top flashing member 11, the bottom flashing member 12, and the right-hand side flashing member 14 of the first set I at the right-hand frame 2b and the flashing members of the second set II at the left-hand frame 2a.
[0049] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 2, the first set I comprises a telescopic drainage gutter 18 supplied in an un-extended state and mounted in an extended state, where it extends along the top frame members 21 of both roof window frames 2a, 2b. In the mounted state the drainage gutter 18 is inclined with one end, here the right-hand end, located slightly lower in the slope direction D than the other end so that the water entering the drainage gutter will be drained off at the right-hand side of the group of roof windows. While Fig. 2 shows two drainage gutters it is to be understood that they represent one and the same drainage gutter shown in an un-extended state of delivery and in a mounted state.
[0050] Turning now to Fig. 3, this figure corresponds in substance to Fig. 7 of Applicant's above-mentioned EP 0 087 647 B1. In this case, the group of roof windows comprises four roof windows in a two-by-two configuration, i.e. two neighbouring roof windows in each row.
[0051] If the prior art flashing assembly of Fig. 2 were to be applied in such a configuration, one or more further sets of flashing members would be included, namely including at least a front middle gutter flashing member 19 for each column of roof windows mounted "over-under" in the slope direction D.
[0052] In the following, embodiments of the invention will be described. Elements having the same or analogous function as in the description of prior art flashing assemblies in the above will be denoted by the same reference numerals.
[0053] In embodiments of the invention, each or at least some of the covering members of the kit of covering members are formed by a suitable material such as sheet metal. While other materials are conceivable, the following description will refer to sheet metal.First embodiment of the invention - Figs. 4 to 9
[0054] Referring initially to Fig. 4, a kit of covering members is shown. The kit of covering members here form a flashing assembly 1 for use with a group of roof windows is shown. Components of the flashing assembly 1 in the embodiment of the invention are selected in accordance with the specific configuration; the invention is in principle applicable to any configuration comprising at least two roof windows mounted adjacent to each other with at least two neighbouring roof windows being mounted side by side with a spacing a between them.
[0055] The roof windows are here indicated only by their respective positions, 2a and 2b. As in the prior art described in connection with Figs. 1 to 3, the frame of each roof window 2a, 2b comprises a top frame member and a bottom frame member, both extending horizontally in the width direction W in the mounted state of the roof window, and two side frame members extending in the slope direction D in the mounted state of the roof window. Reference numerals denoting parts of the frames 2a, 2b are not indicated in Fig. 4 for ease of reading.
[0056] The flashing assembly 1 comprises a plurality of flashing members including a top flashing member 11, 11' for each roof window 2a, 2b.
[0057] Each top flashing member 11, 11' is configured for extending along the respective top frame member of the frame 2b, 2a of the associated roof window such that the top flashing member 11, 11' exceeds the width of the respective frame 2b, 2a and protrudes at either side in the width direction W. The protruding portions of the top flashing members 11, 11' constitute respective corner sections 114, 114'. Counterpart corner sections corresponding to corner sections 113 of the prior art are present at the opposite side of each flashing member 11, 11' as shown in Fig. 6.
[0058] The flashing assembly 1 comprises, as in the prior art shown in Figs 1-3, a bottom flashing member 12 for each bottom-most roof window configured for extending along respective bottom frame members, two side flashing members 13, 14 configured for extending along respective outer side frame members 23, 24 of neighbouring roof windows, i.e., the outermost frame members of each row, here of frames 2a and 2b. Furthermore, a middle gutter flashing member 15 is configured for extending between the frames 2a, 2b of neighbouring roof windows.
[0059] In standard flashing assemblies as available in the prior art, the middle gutter flashing member 15 has a maximally attainable width in the width direction W and a pre-defined length in the slope direction D. Either the width is fixed, or it is adjustable within a standardised range. Typically, the fixed width corresponds to a frame distance of 100 mm, and the standardised range accommodates widths between 100 and 160 mm. One example of a prior art flashing assembly with flexible width is shown and described in Applicant's above-mentioned EP 4442924A1.
[0060] For a spacing a between neighbouring roof windows exceeding the standardised range of maximally attainable widths of a standard middle gutter flashing member, the middle gutter flashing member according to the invention comprises an extra-wide middle gutter flashing member 15x.
[0061] Since the spacing a in this case exceeds the combined protrusion distances a1, a2 of the top flashing members 11, 11' of neighbouring roof windows, a gap is formed between the corner sections 114, 114' of the top flashing members 11, 11' of neighbouring roof windows. In order to provide a continuous cover, the flashing assembly 1 according to the invention comprises a top extension piece 11x configured to overlap the gap between top flashing members 11, 11' of neighbouring roof windows.
[0062] Referring now also to Figs. 6 to 9, an embodiment of the top extension piece 11x will be described in some detail.
[0063] The top extension piece 11x comprises a first section 11x1 configured to be located in a plane spanned by the slope direction D and the width direction W in the mounted state. The first section 11x1 comprises a first leg 11x11 and a second leg 11x12 forming a pocket 11x13 between them. The pocket 11x13 has an opening has an opening which faces the associated top flashing member 11 in the mounted state.
[0064] As by the arrow indicated in Fig. 7, the opening of the pocket 11x13 is configured to receive the corner section 114 of the associated top flashing member 11.
[0065] The friction between the part of the corner section 114 inserted into the pocket 11x13 may to some extent contribute to keeping the top extension piece 11x in position relative to the top flashing member 11 by force engagement.
[0066] However, according to the invention holding means are provided to bring the top extension piece 11x, which constitutes a first covering member, and the top flashing member 11, which constitutes a second covering member, in at least temporary engagement by the provision of an engagement section in the form of a bendable flap 11x3 on the top extension piece 11x configured to interact with the top flashing member 11 in the mounted state.
[0067] The first covering member, here the top extension piece 11x, defines a length axis LA, a height axis HA, and a width axis WA. The first covering member is configured for being arranged along a side of the respective roof window of the set of roof windows with the length axis LA extending in parallel with the associated side of the roof window, the width axis WA extending away from the roof window, and the height axis HA extending perpendicularly to the roof window plane of the roof window.
[0068] Furthermore, each first covering member and second covering member has a total height along the height axis HA and a total width along the width axis WA.
[0069] In the embodiment shown, the engagement between the top extension piece 11x and the top flashing member 11 is form-locking such that movement is prevented in at least the slope direction D, i.e., in one direction parallel to the length axis LA, and in the height direction H, i.e., in both directions parallel to the height axis, thus holding the top extension piece 11x and the top flashing member 11 at least temporarily in three out of six degrees of freedom.
[0070] As shown, the bendable flap 11x3 is in the present embodiment provided on the first leg 11x11 of the first section 11x1 and is configured to interact with the corner section 114 of the top flashing member 11. Referring to Figs. 8 and 9, it is seen how the bendable flap 11x3 is folded back upon itself, over an edge of the corner section 114 of the top flashing member 11. Once the top flashing member 11 and the top extension piece 11x have been connected with each other and the top flashing member 11 has been placed at its position at the top frame member of the frame 2b, the extension piece 11x is prevented from sliding out of engagement with the corner section 114 and further downwards in the slope direction D.
[0071] The holding means comprising the engagement section formed by the bendable flap 11x3 of the first covering member 11x is confined within the total height and total width of the first covering member 11x in a state of delivery of the kit. In other words, the bendable flap 11x3 is formed in extension of the first leg 11x11 along the length axis LA but does not protrude beyond the periphery in the width direction as defined by the outer edges extending along the length axis LA.
[0072] In the embodiment shown, the top extension piece 11x furthermore comprises a second section 11x2 extending substantially perpendicularly to the first section 11x1, in a plane spanned by the slope direction D and a height direction H perpendicular to the slope direction D and the width direction W. The second section 11x2 is configured to interact with an inner section 112 of the associated top flashing member 11. As indicated, the second section 11x2 of the embodiment shown has an extension in the slope direction D which is less than 50% of a total length of the top extension piece 11x in the slope direction D. In this way, the second section 11x2 fits at the back, or inner, side of the portion of the inner section 112 of the top flashing member 11 which extends in parallel with the slope direction D in the mounted state of the flashing assembly 1.
[0073] By selecting suitable dimensions of the first leg 11x11 and the pocket 11x13, the top extension piece 11x is retained also in the width direction W, by the engagement of the corner section 114 of the top flashing member 11 with the pocket 11x13 on the one side and of the second section 11x2 and the inner section 112 of the top flashing member 11 on the other.
[0074] Along the opposite longitudinal edge, i.e. in the embodiment shown, a free edge of the second leg 11x12, the top extension piece 11x comprises a folded edge 11x14. The folded edge 11x14 is here provided on a free edge of the second leg 11x12 opposite the opening of the pocket 11x13, and the folded edge 11x14 is configured to interact with a corner section 114' of a neighbouring top flashing member 11' adjacent to the associated top flashing member 11 as is shown in Fig. 4.
[0075] In the mounted state of the flashing assembly shown in Fig. 4, the top flashing member 11 of the roof window 2b is seen next to the top flashing member 11' of the neighbouring roof window 2a. The top extension piece 11x interacts the top flashing member 11 and with the neighbouring top flashing member 11'.
[0076] Correspondingly, the extra-wide middle gutter flashing member 15x interacts with a middle gutter flashing member 15' of the neighbouring roof window.
[0077] The mutual positioning between the flashing members of the flashing assembly is shown more clearly in the exploded view of Fig. 5. Thus, at the lower-most position in the mounted state, the extra-wide middle gutter flashing member 15x is positioned, next to the frame of the right-hand roof window 2b. Then, the top flashing member 11, connected to the top extension piece 11x as described in the above, is positioned around the top of the frame of the roof window 2b. Following that, the middle gutter flashing member 15' of the neighbouring roof window 2a is connected to the extra-wide middle gutter flashing member 15x in any suitable way, for instance by introducing a free edge of the extra-wide middle gutter flashing member 15x into a pocket 15'1 of the adjacent middle gutter flashing member 15' (not shown in detail). Finally, the top flashing member 11' is placed around the top of the frame of the neighbouring roof window 2a.
[0078] The right-hand side including the corner section 114' of the top flashing member 11' has a configuration resembling the left-hand side of the top flashing member 11 but could also be configured differently. Correspondingly, the top flashing member 11 could be configured to match or, dependent on whether the frame is that of a roof window positioned at the right-hand end of a row, or as here in a middle position, have a different configuration to the left-hand side of the top flashing member 11, for instance corresponding in substance to the embodiments of Applicant's European patent No. 3 404 162.Second embodiment of the invention - Figs. 10 to 13
[0079] In the set of roof windows embodiment shown in more detail in Figs. 10 and 11, a substantially planar lug 1414 is formed on the bottom flashing member 12 of the left-hand roof window 2a.
[0080] The planar lug 1414 here has a trapezoidal shape and protrudes from a perpendicular flange of the bottom flashing member 12 to extend in the plane spanned by the height direction H and the slope direction D.
[0081] The planar lug 1414 is configured to be foldable about a folding line substantially parallel to the slope direction D as shown by the arrow in Fig. 11 to abut on the inner potion 152 of the middle gutter flashing member 15 in a mounted condition of the flashing assembly.
[0082] Thus, in the mounted condition the trapezoidal lug 1414 assumes a folded-back position substantially in parallel with its original plane and acts as a force-locking engagement means in hindering the middle gutter flashing member 15 from sliding along the sloping roof by frictional forces.
[0083] The engagement may be reinforced by clamping the trapezoidal lug 1414 manually, possibly by means of a suitable tool.
[0084] In the embodiment shown in more detail in Figs. 12 and 13, a substantially planar flap or lug 1525 is formed on the inner portion 152 of the middle gutter flashing member 15.
[0085] The planar lug 1525 has a rectangular shape and protrudes from the inner portion 152to extend in the planned spanned by the height direction H and the slope direction D.
[0086] According to the invention, the planar lug 1525 functions as holding means provided to bring the middle gutter flashing member 15, which constitutes a first covering member, and the top member of the frame of the roof window 2a in at least temporary engagement in the mounted state.
[0087] In the embodiment shown, the engagement between the middle gutter flashing member 15 is held in form-locking engagement such that movement is prevented in at least the slope direction D, thus holding the middle gutter flashing member 15 at least temporarily in one out of six degrees of freedom.
[0088] The planar lug 1525 is configured to be foldable about a folding line substantially parallel to the height direction H to a position at right angles with its original plane to be brought into abutment with a portion of the roof window, typically at a corner of the stationary frame of a roof window, or at a portion of any insulation frame mounted to the frame. In this way, the rectangular lug 1525 provides a form-locking engagement with the associated roof window, thus improving the retention of the flashing member 1 even further.Third embodiment of the invention - Figs. 14 to 17
[0089] Turning now to Figs. 14 to 17, a longitudinal end portion of a further embodiment of a flashing element 6 constituting a first covering member of a kit of covering members is shown.
[0090] The general configuration of the flashing element 6 or first covering member is that a first section 61 is provided to extend substantially in parallel with the roof window plane in the mounted state, i.e., the first section 61 is substantially located in a plane spanned by the length axis LA and the width axis WA. Substantially perpendicularly to the first section 61, a second section 62 extends along the height axis HA. A pocket 613 is formed in the first section 61. The first section and the second section may be referred to as main sections of the flashing member.
[0091] In the mounted state, the flashing element 6 forming the covering member is configured to be positioned along a side of the roof window corresponding to one of the side frame members 23, 24.
[0092] The first covering member formed by the flashing element 6 could form a third flashing element for cooperation with an interior and / or exterior flashing element. With reference to the prior art flashing arrangement in Fig. 1, the third flashing element would be positioned as one part of middle gutter flashing member 15, where the other part (not shown) is similar to an exterior flashing member and can connect to the third flashing member by being inserted into a pocket 613, for example as in Figs. 4-5.
[0093] The first covering member formed by flashing element 6 is provided with holding means configured to bring the flashing element 6 in at least temporary engagement with one or more of: a second covering member, a third covering member, a roof window of said set of roof windows, and a roof structure in which the set of roof windows is installed, neither of which are shown.
[0094] The holding means comprises an engagement section which in the embodiment shown comprises a hook 63.
[0095] In the embodiment shown, the hook 63 is positioned in the second section 62 of the flashing element 6 such that the engagement section comprising the hook 63 is located in its entirety within the periphery defined by the second section 62 of the flashing element 6 forming the first covering member, namely delimited by the following borders: The upper-most longitudinal free edge 621 as seen along the height axis HA, the lower-most longitudinal edge 622 as seen along the height axis HA - corresponding to a transition line to the first section 61, the one end edge as seen along the length axis LA, and the opposite end edge (not shown). The distance between the upper edge 621 and the lower edge 622 defined the total height of the covering member. The lower edge 622 here also constitutes an outer edge of the covering member and the other outer edge is constituted by the free edge 623 at the opposite side of the first section 61. The distance between these two edges 622, 623 defines the total width of the covering member.
[0096] Furthermore, in the state of delivery of the kit of covering members shown in Fig. 15, the hook 63 is provided substantially in the same plane as the remaining section of the flashing element, the remaining section forming a functional section of the first covering member in the mounted condition of the kit of covering members corresponding to a state of use.
[0097] Thus, the hook 63 is positioned and configured so as to be able to hook onto a further component, here to a flashing assembly (not shown).
[0098] Although not shown, the flashing assembly may in turn comprise a hook receiving area or section in the exterior side configured to receive the hook 63.
[0099] The pocket 613 may be of the wider configuration described above, where received flashing members can assumed a range of different positions by being inserted to various depths in pocket. Accordingly, the other member (not shown) need not have parallel indications for adaptation. The other part (not shown) of the middle gutter 15 can also have a hook which is located and configured to hook onto the same or another flashing assembly, which in some embodiments may have a hook receiving section.
[0100] The hook 63 of the shown embodiment forms part of the second section 62 and is provided by shaping part thereof according to pre-made weakenings 630, 631, 632 and 633 at one longitudinal end of the third flashing element 6. Fig. 14 shows the first covering member, i.e., here the flashing element 6, in an unfolded state, i.e. a sheet metal blank 1000, which comprises pre-made weakenings 630-633. In the embodiment shown, the weakenings comprise incision parts 630 and 631, a narrow slot 632 and a wide slot 633 as will be described in further detail below.
[0101] The sheet metal blank 1000 can then be folded to provide a folded state shown in Fig. 15, where the flashing element 6 has been shaped, but the hook 63 is in passive state corresponding to the state of delivery of the kit of covering members.
[0102] When the covering members of the kit of covering members, here including the flashing element 6, are packed and transported to the installation site, it is preferably in this folded, passive state so as to protect the hook 63 from deformation and not contribute to the bulkiness, or risk of damaging other components or the packaging itself. This may also allow the flashing element 6 to be used where there is no need for the hook 63, potentially reducing the number of components.
[0103] Fig. 16 then shows the folded, active state where the hook 63 is activated by shaping according to the pre-made weakenings 630-633 and can hook onto a flashing assembly (not shown).
[0104] The hook 63 essentially provides a temporary means for retaining the flashing element 6 in relation to a flashing assembly during installation. This is useful for covering members including flashing elements which are not held in place when placed in their intended position until further components are mounted, as it prevents the "free" flashing element from sliding down the roof structure. By hooking the flashing element constituting the covering member onto the flashing assembly they can be placed on the roof structure at the same time and the flashing element 6 is prevented from sliding down by the flashing assembly which will engage part of the roof window installation, e.g. engage an insulation frame, the frame of the roof window, or the roof structure.
[0105] Fig. 17 shows details of the hook 63 in the passive state. One pre-made weakening is a L-shaped incision with first incision part 630 along the length axis from the longitudinal end of the flashing element 6 constituting the first covering member and a second incision part 631 in continuation of the first up along the height axis in the exterior direction. The second incision part 631 stops before the exterior side, which L-shaped defines a flap attached at the exterior side. This flap can then be folded up and project from the second section 62 in the exterior direction, i.e. upwards along the height axis HA (see Fig. 16). To facilitate this folding, pre-made weakening 632, here in the form of a narrow slot, is provided where the flap anchors to the second section 62. Pre-made weakening 633 is provided toward the free portion of the flap opposite the anchorage to guide the shaping the bend portion of the hook 63, i.e. the part which hooks onto the flashing assembly. Pre-made weakening 633 is here in the form of a wide slot which more easily guides the shaping of the relatively short curvature of the hook 63.
[0106] The dimensions of the pre-made weakenings are determined by dimensions of the respective flashing elements which it is intended to hook together, for example accounting for any differences in height, and the presence or lack of hook receiving section. For example, the distance between narrow slot 632 and wide slot 633 defines a shaft of the hook, which determines how far the hook projects.
[0107] The features described in relation to hook 63 in relation to Figs. 14 to 17 equally apply to hook in a corresponding flashing element (not shown) of a kit of covering members which is inserted in pocket 613 and hooks onto a flashing element of the flashing assembly. Similarly, the hook 63 as described herein is not limited to the flashing elements or covering members described herein but may be used in general for any flashing elements or covering member of a kit of covering members where it is desired to keep two components at least temporarily attached, either to each other, to other covering members, to the roof window itself, or to the roof structure.Embodiments of the invention relating in particular to manufacturing - Figs. 18A to 21B
[0108] In order to provide an engagement section of a first covering member generally designated 10, an elongate blank, typically, of sheet metal is provided.
[0109] As an example, for the flashing element 6 of the third embodiment, suitable dimensions for thickness, length and width of blank 1000 are selected to provide an end product with the desired measurements of the flashing element 6 for a particular set of roof windows.
[0110] Referring now to Figs. 18A to 21B, it is noted that the length of the blank will typically correspond in substance to the length of the end product, i.e., the first covering member 10, which is in turn dependent on the length of the side of the roof window 2, along which the first covering member 10 is to be placed in the mounted condition. The length of the blank may be longer to accommodate an engagement section 1010 which extends beyond the length of the remaining, functional section of the first covering member in the passive state of the engagement section 1010.
[0111] One example of an engagement section protruding beyond the length of the remaining, functional section of the first covering member is the bendable flap 11x3 of the top extension piece 11x of the first embodiment in Fig. 6-9.
[0112] An example, in which the engagement section protrudes beyond a portion of the functional section, but not beyond the length of the total functional section, is the planar lug 1525 formed on the inner portion 152 of the middle gutter flashing member 15 of the second embodiment in Fig. 12-13.
[0113] However, what is key to the embodiments of the invention is that the engagement section does not add to the thickness and total "bandwidth" of the first covering member, i.e., that the engagement section is confined within the total height and the total width of the first covering member.
[0114] In the exemplary embodiments shown in Figs. 18A to 21B, the engagement section 1010 is shown as a flap or flange pointing upwards; however, the orientation may vary such that the engagement section is provided protruding from a longitudinal end of the first covering member or within a periphery of the first covering member as will be described in further detail further below.
[0115] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 18A, the engagement section 1010 is formed by means of punching to provide a wide incision 1011a at either side at the transition to the functional section, here indicated as a remaining section 1090.
[0116] While punching of sheet metal is a well-proven manufacturing technique, small fragments of sheet metal will invariably occur when punching geometries such as the wide incision 1011a, which need to be removed from the machinery in order not to impede subsequent punching operations.
[0117] As an alternative to punching, cutting, such as laser cutting, may be applied to replace the wide incision by a cut 1011b as shown in Fig. 18B.
[0118] In both of these embodiments, the engagement section 1010 is thus delimited by at least one weakening, here the wide incisions 1011a and cuts 1011b, respectively, which serve as a hinge when bringing the engagement section 1010 from the passive state shown to an active state corresponding to a use position in which the holding means constituted by the engagement section bring the first covering member in at least temporary engagement with another covering member, a roof window, or the roof structure itself. As an alternative, the weakening could also be provided as a depression of the material or a series of perforations.
[0119] Correspondingly, the incision 1011a extending from one side only of the first covering member 10 of Fig. 19A may be replaced by cut 1011b as in Fig. 19B.
[0120] In the embodiment of Fig. 20a, the weakening is provided by an opening in the form of a wide slot 1013 which may be formed by punching.
[0121] Another form of opening is shown by a cut 1012 in the embodiment of Fig. 20B. It is noted that while cutting generally creates less scrap, it also requires start and stop by the cutter in closed geometries as in the case of the cut 1012. However, this may be controlled by suitable means.
[0122] In the embodiment of Fig. 21A, the engagement section 1010 is shown formed as a trapezoidal lug. It has proven challenging to bring such a form from the passive state to the active state without proper guidance. While incisions, cuts or openings parallel to the transition line to the remaining section 1090 could have been provided as in the embodiments of Figs. 18A to 20B, an alternative is shown in the embodiment of Fig. 21B, in which incisions 1011a are formed perpendicularly to the transition line. This has proven to provide a reliable hinge function.
[0123] In the following description of further embodiments, elements having the same or analogous function carry the same reference numerals. This does not preclude that variations may occur. Only differences to previously described embodiments will be described in detail.Fourth embodiment of the invention - Figs. 22 to 23
[0124] In the embodiment of Fig. 22, the engagement section 1010 is formed within the periphery of the first covering member 10 extending along the length axis LA and height axis HA. The total height of the first covering member 10 thus corresponds to the dimension between the lower edge and the upper edge while the total width corresponds to the thickness of the first covering member 10 along the width axis WA, perpendicular to the plane spanned by the length axis LA and the height axis HA.
[0125] It is noted that corresponding principles apply regardless of the first covering member 10 being positioned in the roof window plane or perpendicularly thereto in the mounted condition.
[0126] The engagement section 1010 is delimited by two wide incisions 1011a, and a narrow slot 1012 to form an opening providing the hinge function.
[0127] In Fig. 23, a second covering member 20 is shown. The second covering member 20 comprises a receiving section 2010 in the form of a recess in the upper portion. Once the first covering member 10 and the second covering member 20 have been brought into suitable matching positions, the engagement section 1010 is brought from its passive state to its active state by folding the engagement section 1010 through 180° out of the plane spanned by the length axis LA and the height axis HA and into engagement with the second covering member 20.
[0128] In order to guide the installer, a marking 1015 may be provided on the first covering member 10, here shown on the engagement section 1010. Such a marking 1015 may be engraved or provided in the form of a label. The marking 1015 may comprise a more complex geometry such as a Quick Response (QR) code or the like.
[0129] In addition to providing locking engagement in the two directions parallel to the width axis WA in the use position, the holding means also ensure a reliable positioning along the length axis LA, since the right-hand edge of the engagement section 1010 abuts the associated recess edge of the second covering member 20. In this way, mutual movement in one direction along the length axis LA is prevented, while at least temporary movement in the opposite direction is possible within certain limits.
[0130] Since the engagement section 1010 of the first covering member 10 is located within the same plane as the remaining, functional section of the first covering member 10 in the passive state, mutual positioning of the first covering member 10 and the second covering member 20 may take place independently of the considerations to the engagement section 1010.Fifth embodiment of the invention - Fig. 24
[0131] In the embodiment of Fig. 24, the hinge function of the engagement section 1010 relative to the remaining section of the first covering member 10 is provided by an opening in the form of a track 1014. Furthermore, the track 1014 makes it possible to accommodate engagement with a wider component, onto which the engagement section 1010 is intended to be folded, for instance a double-layered flashing element or insulating member.Sixth embodiment of the invention - Fig. 25
[0132] In the embodiment of Fig. 25, the engagement section 1010 is shown a flap or lug located at a distance from the upper edge relative to the remaining section of the first covering member 10. The hinge function is provided as a narrow slot 1012 as in the fourth embodiment and a wide slot 1013 is provided to make it possible to guide the folding of the engagement section 1010 further, compare the function of pre-made weaking 633 of the third embodiment.Seventh embodiment of the invention - Fig. 26
[0133] It is not required that folding of the engagement section 1010 takes place along a hinge axis provided by a weakening either parallel or perpendicular to the transition line to the remaining section. As shown in Fig. 26, a narrow slot 1012 is provided at an angle of approximately 45° to the horizontal, to allow bending of the engagement section 1010 according to a more complex pattern.Eighth embodiment of the invention - Fig. 27
[0134] The engagement section 1010 may also be folded through smaller angles other than 180° or more and still function as holding means. One example is shown in Fig. 27, where a lug-shaped engagement section 1010 of the first covering member 10 is folded through for instance 20-30° to cooperate with a recess-formed receiving section 2010 of the second covering member 20. The bringing together of the second covering member 20 and the first covering member 10 is indicated by arrow A.Nineth embodiment of the invention - Fig. 28
[0135] The holding means of the first covering member 10 may include more than one engagement section part as illustrated in Fig. 28.
[0136] Here, a first engagement section part 1010a is provided in the form of upstanding flanges or flaps in a recess in the upper edge portion of the first covering member 10 so as not to add to the bandwidth of the first covering member 10.
[0137] Correspondingly, the second covering member 20 comprises a first receiving section part 2010a, provided as a folded portion of the second covering member 20, with two openings 2010a1 and 2010a2. As shown, the folded portion is formed from a piece of material included in the bandwidth of the second covering member 20 such that the first receiving section 2010a does not require material extending beyond the total height of the second covering member 20.
[0138] A second engagement section part 1010b is provided as a lug as in the eighth embodiment to interact with a second receiving section part 2010b of the second covering member 20 in the use position.
[0139] In this way, mutual locking between the first covering member 10 and the second covering member 20 is provided in all six degrees of freedom.Alternative versions - Figs. 29 to 30
[0140] While the engagement section of the first covering members of all of the above embodiments are formed by punching or cutting, it is in principle also possible to form the engagement section as a dent, bulge or ridge.
[0141] Examples thereof are shown in Figs. 29 and 30.
[0142] In Fig. 29, a pin-shaped bulge constitutes an engagement section 1020 in the first covering member, configured to interact with a receiving section 2020 in the form of a recess in the second covering member 20.
[0143] As an alternative, an engagement section 1030 in the form of a bulge of the first covering member is configured to be brought into engagement with a counterpart bulge forming a receiving section 2030 in the second covering member 20 when moved into a gap in the second covering member 20 as indicated by the arrow A. In this way, a snap engagement is made possible. Using a snap engagement, either as a soft snap or as a locking snap, as such is also conceivable in the embodiments of the invention. A similar effect could be achieved by using a bent out flap or lug as the engagement section 1030.Further embodiments
[0144] Once the kit of covering members has been brought to the installation site in a state of delivery, the covering members of the kit are prepared for installation, together with the set of roof windows and any auxiliary components such as insulation and vapour barrier collars, etc.
[0145] In particular, use of a kit according to the invention is foreseen to comprise the steps of: I) arranging the first covering member 11x, 15, 6, 10 along a side 21, 22, 23, 24 of a roof window 2, 2a, 2b of a set of roof windows with the length axis LA extending in parallel with said side of said roof window, the width axis WA extending away from said roof window, and the height axis HA extending perpendicularly to the roof window plane of said roof window, and II) bringing the engagement section 11x3, 1525, 63, 1010 of the first covering member 11x, 15, 6, 10 in at least temporary engagement with one or more of: the second covering member 20, a third covering member, a roof window 2, 2a, 2b of said set of roof windows, and a roof structure in which the set of roof windows is installed.
[0146] In additional embodiments, not necessarily shown and described in the above, and comprising reference numerals in parentheses for guidance purposes only: U2. Use according to the invention, further comprising the step of: III) arranging the second covering member 20 along a side 21, 22, 23, 24 of a roof window 2, 2a, 2b of a set of roof windows with the length axis LA extending in parallel with said side of said roof window, the width axis WA extending away from said roof window, and the height axis HA extending perpendicularly to the roof window plane of said roof window. U3. Use according to the invention, wherein, during step II, the engagement section 11x3, 1525, 63, 1010 is brought into engagement with a receiving section of the second covering member 20. U4. Use according to U2 or U3, wherein, during step II, the first covering member 11x, 15, 6, 10 is displaced relative to the second covering member 20, or where, during step III, the second covering member is displaced relative to the first covering member along at least one of the length axis LA, the height axis HA, and the width axis WA. U5. Use according to the invention, wherein, before and / or simultaneously with step II, the engagement section 11x3, 1525, 63, 1010 is moved from a delivery position to a use position. U6. Use according to U5, where the engagement section 11x3, 1525, 63, 1010 is confined within the total height and the total width of the first covering member 11x, 15, 6, 10) when in the delivery position and extends beyond the total height and the total width of the first covering member when in the use position. U7. The use according to U5 or U6, where the movement of the engagement section 11x3, 1525, 63, 1010 from the delivery position to the use position comprises bending of the engagement section. List of Reference Numerals
[0147] 1kit of covering members 2roof window 21top frame member / side 22bottom frame member / side 23side frame members / side 24side frame member / side 2afirst roof window 2bsecond roof window 3sloped roof structure 6flashing element 61first section 613pocket 62second section 621upper edge 622lower edge 623outer edge 63engagement section / hook 630incision part 631incision part 632narrow slot 633wide slot 10first covering member 1000blank 1010engagement section 1010afirst engagement section part 1010bsecond engagement section part 1011awide incision 1011bcut 1012narrow slot 1013wide slot 1014track 1015marking 1020engagement section (embodiment of Fig. 29) 1030engagement section (embodiment of Fig. 30) 1090remaining section 11second covering member / top flashing member 111outer portion 112inner portion 113corner section 114corner section 11'top flashing member of neighbouring roof window 114'corner section of adjacent top flashing member 11xfirst covering member / top extension piece 11x1first section 11x11first leg 11x12second leg 11x13pocket 11x14folded edge 11x2second section 11x3engagement section / bendable flap 11x4folded edge 12first covering member / bottom flashing member 121outer portion 122inner portion 123corner section 124corner section 13side flashing member 131outer portion 132inner portion 14side flashing member 141outer portion 142inner portion 1414lug 15first / second covering member / middle gutter flashing member 151outer portion 152inner portion 1525engagement section / lug 15'middle gutter flashing member of neighbouring roof window 15xextra-wide middle gutter flashing member 16cover member 17cover member 18drainage gutter 19front middle gutter flashing member 191outer portion 192inner portion 193corner section 194corner section 19'front middle gutter flashing member of neighbouring roof window 20second covering member 2010receiving section 2010afirst receiving section part 2010a1opening 2010a2opening 2010bsecond receiving section part 2020receiving section (embodiment of Fig. 29) 2030receiving section (embodiment of Fig. 30) Dslope direction Wwidth direction Hheight direction LAlength axis HAheight axis WAwidth axis
Claims
1. A kit of covering members for use with a set of roof windows (2, 2a, 2b), each roof window of said set having four sides (21, 22, 23, 24) defining a roof window plane and a pane covering an opening in said roof window plane, where said kit comprises a least a first covering member (11x, 15, 6, 10) and a second covering member (20), each of said first covering member and said second covering member defining a length axis (LA), a height axis (HA), and a width axis (WA) and being configured for being arranged along a side (21, 22, 23, 24) of a roof window (2, 2a, 2b) of the set of roof windows with the length axis (LA) extending in parallel with said side of said roof window, the width axis extending away from said roof window, and the height axis extending perpendicularly to the roof window plane of said roof window, each first covering member and second covering member having a total height along the height axis (HA) and a total width along the width axis (WA), where at least the first covering member (11x, 15, 6, 10) is formed from a blank of a sheet material, where holding means are provided on at least the first covering member (11x, 15, 6, 10), said holding means being configured to bring the first covering member in at least temporary engagement with one or more of: the second covering member (20), a third covering member, a roof window (2, 2a, 2b) of said set of roof windows, and a roof structure in which the set of roof windows is installed, characterised in that the holding means comprises an engagement section (11x3, 1525, 63, 1010) of the first covering member (11x, 15, 6, 10), said engagement section being confined within the total height and the total width of the first covering member in a state of delivery of the kit.
2. The kit according to claim 1, where the first covering member (11x, 15, 6, 10) and / or the second covering member (20) is formed from a blank (1000) made from metal.
3. The kit according to claim 1 or 2, where the engagement section (11x3, 1525, 63, 1010) is a flap or flange.
4. The kit according to claim 3, where the engagement section (11x3, 1525, 63, 1010) is delimited by at least one weakening, such as an incision or cut (1011a, 1011b), an opening (1012, 1013, 1014), or a depression, configured to serve as a hinge.
5. The kit according to claim 4, where the hinge is configured for movement of the engagement section (11x3, 1525, 63, 1010) from a delivery position where it is confined within the total height and the total width of the first covering member (11x, 15, 6, 10) to a use position where it extends beyond the total height and the total width of the first covering member.
6. The kit according to claim 1 or 2, where the engagement section (1020, 1030) is a dent, a bulge, or a ridge formed by displacement of material relative to another section of the covering member.
7. The kit according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the second covering member (20) is provided with a receiving section (2010) forming part of the holding means and configured for engagement with the engagement section (11x3, 1525, 63, 1010) of the first covering member (11x, 15, 6, 10).
8. The kit according to claim 7, where the receiving section comprises at least one of an opening, a depression, a slit, and a recess.
9. The kit according to one or more of the preceding claims, where the first covering member (11x, 15, 6, 10) and the second covering member (20) are interconnected, forming a single unit in the state of delivery of the kit.
10. The kit according to claim 9, where the first covering member (11x, 15, 6, 10) and the second covering member (20) are displaceable in relation to each other along the width axis (WA) and / or the height axis (HA) along while remaining interconnected.
11. A method of manufacturing a kit of covering members for use with a set of roof windows (2, 2a, 2b), said method comprising the steps of: A) Providing a first blank and a second blank, each of the first blank and the second blank having a first longitudinal side and a second longitudinal side, said second longitudinal side being substantially parallel to the first longitudinal side, B) Forming a first covering member (11x, 15, 6, 10) from the first blank, C) Forming a second covering member (20) from the second blank, where each of said first covering member (11x, 15, 6, 10) and said second covering member (20) defining a length axis (LA), a height axis (HA), and a width axis (WA) and being configured for being arranged along a side (21, 22, 23, 24) of a roof window (2, 2a, 2b) of the set of roof windows with the length axis (LA) extending in parallel with said side of said roof window, the width axis extending away from said roof window, and the height axis extending perpendicularly to the roof window plane of said roof window, each first covering member and second covering member having a total height along the height axis (HA) and a total width along the width axis (WA), where, during step B, the first covering member (11x, 15, 6, 10) is provided with holding means configured to bring the first covering member in at least temporary engagement with one or more of: the second covering member (20), a third covering member, a roof window (2, 2a, 2b) of said set of roof windows, and a roof structure in which the set of roof windows is installed, and where the holding means comprises an engagement section (11x3, 1525, 63, 1010) of the first covering member (11x, 15, 6, 10), said engagement section being confined within the total height and the total width of the first covering member.
12. The method according to claim 11, wherein, during step C, the second covering member (20) is provided with a receiving section (2010) forming part of the holding means and configured for engagement with the engagement section (11x3, 1525, 63, 1010) of the first covering member (11x, 15, 6, 10).
13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the first covering member (11x, 15, 6, 10) and / or the second covering member (20) is formed by folding, roll-forming, pressing, and / or drawing of the first blank and / or the second blank, at least one of the first blank and the second blank being preferably made from sheet metal.
14. The method according to one or more of claims 11 to 13, wherein the engagement section (11x3, 1525, 63, 1010) and / or the receiving section, if any, is formed by punching, cutting, pressing, and / or drawing.
15. The method according to one or more of claims 11 to 14, wherein at least one of the first blank and the second blank forms part of a strip, which is longer than the total length of the first covering member (11x, 15, 6, 10) or second covering member (20) formed from the respective blank, the engagement section (11x3, 1525, 63, 1010) being preferably formed when separating the first blank from the strip and / or the receiving section is formed when separating the second blank from the strip.
16. The method according to one or more of claims 11 to 15, further comprising the step of interconnecting the first covering member (11x, 15, 6, 10) and the second covering member (20) so that in a state of delivery of the kit they are provided as a single unit, the first covering member (11x, 15, 6, 10) and the second covering member (20) being preferably displaceable in relation to each other along the width axis (WA) and / or along the height axis (HA) while remaining interconnected.
17. Use of a kit according to one or more of claims 1-10, comprising the steps of: I) arranging the first covering member (11x, 15, 6, 10) along a side (21, 22, 23, 24) of a roof window (2, 2a, 2b) of a set of roof windows with the length axis (LA) extending in parallel with said side of said roof window, the width axis (WA) extending away from said roof window, and the height axis (HA) extending perpendicularly to the roof window plane of said roof window, and II) bringing the engagement section (11x3, 1525, 63, 1010) of the first covering member (11x, 15, 6, 10) in at least temporary engagement with one or more of: the second covering member (20), a third covering member, a roof window (2, 2a, 2b) of said set of roof windows, and a roof structure in which the set of roof windows is installed.