CONCEALED FIXING SYSTEM FOR STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS OF SHOWER OR BATH ENCLOSURES

Abstract

A concealed, adjustable fixing system for structural elements of shower or bath enclosures, characterized in that it comprises: - a transverse profile (4) comprising an end portion; - a support component (7) configured to be rigidly fixed to an external means, wherein said support component (7) comprises a seat (71) fitted to the end portion of the transverse profile (4); and - fastening means that connect the support component (7) and the end portion of the transverse profile (4) by means of a sliding joint limited to a predetermined length, with respect to a direction defined by an axial direction of the transverse profile (4).

Description

CONCEALED FIXING SYSTEM FOR STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS OF SHOWER OR BATH SCREENS Object of the invention The object of the present invention is a concealed and adjustable fixing system for structural elements of shower or bath screens that allows an adjustable connection between vertical profiles or external supports and transverse profiles, providing compensation means for assembly misalignments that facilitate both the installation and the subsequent adjustment of the relative position between said profiles, keeping the fixing elements completely concealed once the installation is completed. The present invention falls within the technical field of fixing and mounting systems for shower and bath enclosures, specifically in concealed connection devices between structural profiles that incorporate adjustment means to compensate for misalignments during installation. The invention is particularly applicable to enclosures with sliding doors where a precise and adjustable connection between the horizontal guide profile and the vertical mounting profiles is required. Technical problem to be solved and background of the invention In the current state of the art, the installation of shower and bath screens presents various technical problems related to compensating for misalignments between the screen structure and the walls or surfaces where they are installed. Traditionally, to compensate for these misalignments, U-shaped compensation profiles are used, placed between the shower screen and the wall. These additional profiles, while functional, have several drawbacks: they increase the product's cost, complicate the installation process, and compromise the final aesthetics of the assembly, as they remain visible once installed and are not perfectly aligned. Prior art, fixing systems for shower enclosures are known that incorporate a horizontal track and a side frame perpendicular to this track. The connection between these two elements is made using positioning blocks embedded in the side frame and articulated locking assemblies. While these systems allow connection between the horizontal and vertical profiles, they have the drawback of not incorporating any means to adjust the horizontal profile's position relative to the support element once the system has been assembled. This necessitates, when a misalignment is detected after installation, partial or complete disassembly of the connection for correction, resulting in increased installation time and cost. Systems are also known that incorporate rail connectors fixed to the end of the horizontal profile, equipped with coupling protrusions and mounting holes that connect to the side frame via dovetail joints. These systems allow the locking structure to be concealed after installation, improving the overall aesthetics. However, the connection between the rail connector and the side frame is rigid once installed, making it impossible to adjust the horizontal profile's position relative to the support without completely disassembling the joint. Solutions incorporating an alloy plate fixed to the wall and a bracket adapted to that plate are also known in the prior art. In these solutions, the connecting element includes locking and fixing blocks that slide on the wall plate. While these systems incorporate coupling elements for the vertical profile and the wall, they only solve the problem of fixing the bracket to the wall; they do not provide any means of positional adjustment of the transverse profile relative to the support component once the system has been assembled. Quick-installation systems for partitions are also available that incorporate adjustment fixing assemblies located at the ends of the guide rail. These assemblies consist of an adjustment element and a fixing element, and the vertical column is connected to the fixing element via coupling blocks. These systems include decorative covers that conceal the ends of the column, improving the overall aesthetic appearance. However, the adjustment they offer is limited to the column's position relative to the rail during initial assembly; it is not possible to make positional corrections to the cross profile relative to the support once installation is complete. In Spain, sliding devices for bathroom partitions are known that incorporate horizontal plates with fixing means for the walls, as well as systems for concealing fixing elements based on main profiles combined with longitudinally coupled cover plates that form tubular recesses in which the fixing elements are housed and hidden. These systems satisfactorily solve the problem of concealing the fixing elements, but they do not address the problem of positional adjustment of the transverse profile with respect to the support after assembly. In short, the connection systems known in the state of the art present, individually or in combination, the following technical problems that have not been satisfactorily resolved: First, they do not provide effective means of positional regulation of the transverse profile with respect to the support component after assembly, which forces complex adjustments or, in extreme cases, partial or total disassembly of the installation to correct misalignments detected during or after the assembly process. Secondly, systems that incorporate some degree of regulation do not keep the fixing elements completely hidden once installed, so the adjustability is obtained at the cost of compromising the aesthetics of the whole. Thirdly, systems that do manage to conceal the fixing elements do not incorporate mechanisms that allow compensating for manufacturing or installation misalignments without having to disassemble the connection, which significantly limits their practical applicability in installations where the dimensional tolerances of the installation space do not exactly match the nominal dimensions of the partition. Fourth, known systems that incorporate coupling elements between the horizontal and vertical profiles resolve the connection by means of rigid couplings to the vertical profile and the wall, without there being a support component with a seat adjusted to the end part of the transverse profile that allows the positional adjustment of said profile with respect to the support once the system is assembled. The present invention arises to solve these technical deficiencies, providing an innovative system that overcomes the limitations of devices known in the state of the art. Description of the invention The present invention proposes an innovative, concealed, and adjustable fixing system for structural elements of shower or bath enclosures. This system effectively solves connection, assembly, and adjustment problems between profiles, especially in installations with hinged and sliding doors. It not only provides a simple and efficient solution for connecting these profiles but also incorporates novel assembly and adjustment mechanisms to compensate for any misalignment in the enclosure dimensions that may occur during installation. The system is applicable to various types of shower and bath enclosures with hinged or sliding doors, providing an innovative technical solution that maintains the aesthetics of the installation without visible connection elements, while offering an adjustment functionality that far exceeds the limitations of conventional systems. In its basic configuration, the fastening system essentially comprises three elements: - a transverse profile, such as the one located above fixed or sliding partitions, which includes an end part to be joined or fixed; - a support component configured to be rigidly fixed to an external medium, such as a partition, a wall or another structural element, such as a vertical profile; and - some fastening means that join both elements by means of a sliding joint, limited to a certain length, with respect to a direction defined by an axial direction of the transverse profile. For clarity, it should be noted that when this description refers to the axial direction of the cross-section, it means the direction along which the cross-section extends. This direction coincides with the horizontal direction of the installation when the cross-section is mounted in its operating position. The sliding joint, limited to a specific length in this axial direction, allows for positional adjustment of the cross-section relative to the support component, compensating for manufacturing or installation discrepancies. The support component comprises a seat fitted to the end of the transverse profile, meaning that the end of the profile can be inserted and positioned in the seat in a controlled and precise manner, without risk of accidental disassembly. The seat preferably comprises a U-shaped profile open at the top, through which the transverse profile can be inserted for securing and removal if the system needs to be disassembled. This U-shaped configuration laterally embraces the end of the cross-section, providing a guide that controls the direction of sliding and prevents unwanted movement in directions other than axial. The term "fitted," referring to the seat relative to the end of the cross-section, should be understood to mean that the interior dimensions of the seat correspond to the exterior dimensions of the end of the cross-section, so that the latter is housed in the seat with controlled clearance that allows axial sliding but prevents movement in other directions. This configuration offers a key advantage: it allows for positional adjustment of the transverse profile relative to the support component after the system is assembled, thus compensating for manufacturing or installation discrepancies without the need to completely disassemble the connection. The system is completely concealed once installed, maintaining the aesthetics of the partition with no visible connection elements. The inclusion of a support component with a seat that fits onto the end of the cross-profile constitutes the essential technical feature of the invention. Unlike systems known in the prior art, which only include elements for attaching the vertical profile and then the wall, without a support component with a seat to allow positional adjustment of the cross-profile relative to the support after the system is assembled, the present invention provides a specific element whose function is precisely to house and guide the end of the cross-profile so that positional adjustments can be made after assembly. The objective technical problem solved by this support component with a seat is the ability to compensate for manufacturing or installation misalignments without having to completely disassemble the connection, thus facilitating assembly and final adjustment. In one embodiment, the fastening means comprise a plate with at least one through-hole, attached to the support component, and a through-hole anchoring element. In this configuration, the through-hole anchoring element is fixed by means of a rigid, detachable connection to the end of the cross-section profile, for example, through a hole in the profile located at that end, passing through the through-hole of the plate. A through-hole is an elongated or elliptical, rather than round, through-hole that allows adjustments to be made within certain tolerances. It is normally closed, although it could be open if required. The through-bolt anchoring element is preferably a screw, which can be threaded into the profile hole, passing through the groove and trapping the groove between the threaded connection and the screw head. In this way, the cross-section is attached to the support component, allowing the cross-section to slide in the transverse direction, limited by the length of the groove in that direction. In other words, the functionality of this design relies on the through-slot acting as a guide that limits the displacement of the anchoring element, thus creating the sliding joint. The length of the through-slot directly determines the available adjustment distance in the axial direction of the cross-section, allowing for precise and controlled adjustment of the cross-section relative to the support component. This solution offers significant advantages in terms of construction simplicity and ease of assembly, since the through-anchor element can be fixed to the cross-profile independently, and subsequently the assembly can be positioned and adjusted according to the installation requirements. One embodiment incorporates a hinged joint between the plate and the support component. This configuration allows the plate to rotate relative to the support component, greatly facilitating the assembly and disassembly of the system. The hinged joint acts as a hinge, enabling relative rotation between the plate and the support component around a defined axis, while both elements remain permanently connected. The functionality of the system in this embodiment is based on a two-stage assembly process: first, with the plate in the open position (rotated by the hinged joint), the end of the cross profile can be inserted into or removed from the seat of the support component without interference. Once the cross profile is positioned in the seat, the plate is rotated to the closed position, at which point the through-bolt anchoring element can be fixed to the hole in the cross profile, passing through the slot in the plate, thus establishing the adjustable connection. This design offers significant advantages in terms of accessibility and ease of installation, especially in confined spaces or when adjustments are required after initial assembly. The system allows for disassembly and reassembly of the connection without the need for complex tools or simultaneous access to multiple fixing points. Furthermore, the mounting plate remains hidden from the user, who typically positions themselves beneath the cross-profile. In a preferred embodiment of the hinged joint, it comprises a pivot axis oriented in a horizontal direction, allowing the plate to rotate at least between a horizontal and a vertical plane. This specific configuration of the pivot axis is optimized to facilitate assembly operations in typical partition installations. The rotation between a horizontal and a vertical plane allows the plate, in the open position, to be positioned in a substantially horizontal plane, so that it does not interfere with the insertion of the cross-profile into the support component's seat from the top. Once the cross-profile is inserted, the plate is rotated to the closed position, in which it is positioned in a substantially vertical plane, aligning correctly with the cross-profile's through-bolt anchoring element to establish the adjustable connection. Rotation between a horizontal and a vertical plane allows the plate, in the open position, to not interfere with the insertion of the cross-profile into the seat of the support component, while in the closed (vertical) position, the plate is positioned so that the through slot aligns correctly with the through anchoring element of the cross-profile. A particularly efficient embodiment, from the standpoint of assembly flexibility, involves the plate comprising only two parallel through-holes, both oriented in the transverse direction. This configuration, with two holes instead of one, offers significant advantages by eliminating the need for separate defined elements for each end of the cross-section profile. The two parallel slots allow the use of two identical anchoring elements, one for each end of the cross-section, so that each slot is used for one end section. Since both slots are oriented in the transverse direction, both anchoring elements can slide simultaneously in the same direction, maintaining the alignment of the cross-section during adjustment. This design is especially advantageous for the installer, as well as facilitating the manufacturing and packaging process, since the same plate with two slots can be used interchangeably at either end of the cross-section profile, reducing the number of product references and simplifying logistics. In an embodiment that optimizes force transmission and connection rigidity, the fastening means comprise a fixing stop axially fitted to an inner portion of the end of the cross-section profile. This fixing stop includes a fixing hole concentric with a through-profile hole located at the end of the cross-section profile, both holes being secured to the anchoring through-profile by means of a rigid and detachable connection. For clarity, it should be noted that the fixing stop is a piece that is inserted into the end of the cross-section profile, conforming to the inner section of said profile so that it is axially immobilized with respect to it. The concentricity between the fixing hole of the stop and the through-profile hole of the cross-section profile ensures that the anchoring through-profile can pass through both holes simultaneously, establishing the rigid and detachable connection.The term "axially adjusted" should be understood to mean that the fixing stop is positioned in the axial direction of the cross-section profile so that its holes are aligned with the holes in the cross-section profile. The fixing stop serves a dual purpose: firstly, it provides an internal support surface that distributes the axial loads exerted by the through-bolt anchor over a larger area of ​​the cross-section, preventing localized deformation. Secondly, the fixing stop can act as a positioning element that ensures the correct alignment of the through-bolt anchor with respect to the cross-section. This design offers significant advantages in terms of mechanical strength and connection durability, which is especially important in installations subject to heavy use or where high loads need to be supported. The fixing stop also simplifies assembly by providing a clear reference for positioning the through-bolt anchor. An alternative embodiment to those described above offers a different constructive solution, since the fastening means comprise an end connector attached to the end part of the cross-section profile by means of a sliding joint, in the axial direction defined by the cross-section profile; a locking means attached to the end connector; and a receiving and anchoring means located on the support component, attached by means of a detachable rigid joint to the end connector. In this configuration, the end connector acts as an intermediate element that slides into the cross profile, allowing for an initial level of adjustment. Unlike the plate and slot embodiment, where the sliding connection occurs between the through-bolt anchoring element and the through-bolt of the plate, in this alternative embodiment the sliding connection occurs directly between the end connector and the cross profile. The end connector moves relative to the cross profile in the axial direction. The locking mechanism limits the movement of this sliding connection, securely holding both parts together. Finally, the support component's receiving and anchoring means is attached to the end connector via a rigid, removable connection, establishing the final connection between the cross profile and the support component. This design offers advantages in terms of modularity and assembly flexibility, since the end connector can be pre-assembled to the end part of the cross-profile, simplifying installation operations. As indicated, in this embodiment, the sliding joint is defined between the end portion of the cross-section profile and the end connector. To limit this displacement, the fastening means include a locking mechanism that creates a clamping force between these two elements, preventing the cross-section profile from moving. Something similar to what happens with previous designs, in which the screw that passes through the collider can be tightened with greater depth and pressure, generating a squeeze between the plate and the extreme part of the transverse profile, limiting transverse sliding. In a preferred embodiment of the end connector configuration, the fastening means comprise a fixing screw that connects the end connector to the receiving and anchoring means. Specifically, the fixing screw is threaded into a through-hole in the end connector and a corresponding hole in the receiving and anchoring means. The alignment of the through-hole in the end connector with the hole in the receiving and anchoring means ensures the correct alignment of both elements during final fastening. The fixing screw allows for easy, detachable connection using conventional tools. This progressive tightening functionality simplifies installation and allows for fine positioning adjustments. In an embodiment that optimizes the stability of the sliding connection, the end connector is attached to the end portion of the cross-profile and is partially fitted or axially inserted into an inner part of the end portion of the cross-profile. This partial fit configuration means that the end connector is partially inserted into the cross-profile, so that part of the end connector is housed inside the profile and part remains outside, establishing a guide that controls the direction of sliding. Because the end connector is guided by the inner part of the cross profile, misalignment or unwanted lateral movement during adjustment is prevented. This configuration also distributes the load more effectively between the end connector and the cross profile, improving the overall mechanical strength. The length of the portion of the end connector inserted into the cross profile determines the stability of the guide and, therefore, the accuracy of the positional adjustment. One embodiment of the system incorporates a vertical profile perpendicular to the transverse profile, where the vertical profile includes an upper end portion assembled to the support component. This configuration establishes a connection between the vertical and transverse profiles, typical of shower or bath screen corners. In this embodiment, the vertical profile includes a mounting located at an upper end portion assembled to the support component. For clarity, the mounting bracket is the element of the vertical profile shaped to fit the support component. It is located at the upper end of the vertical profile, specifically at the top of the installation, near the cross profile. The mounting bracket may include, for example, a section with a shape complementary to that of the support component, ensuring a stable fit between the two elements. This configuration establishes a connection where the vertical profile rests vertically on the floor or shower tray, and the cross profile is positioned horizontally at the top. The two profiles are connected at the corner by the support component. In this design, the support component acts as a connecting element between the two profiles, providing not only the structural connection but also the functionality of adjusting the transverse profile relative to the vertical profile. This adjustability is particularly valuable in installations where the dimensions of the available space may vary from the nominal dimensions of the partition. The vertical profile provides the necessary structural rigidity to support the loads transmitted by the transverse profile, especially in configurations with sliding doors where the transverse profile acts as a guide and supports the weight of the doors. The perpendicular connection between both profiles, mediated by the adjustable support component, allows for compensation of misalignments without compromising the overall structural stability. In an alternative embodiment to the previous one, the system comprises a support that includes an adjustment cavity assembled to the support component, and a fixing groove that can be attached to a flat structure, such as a partition, by means of a clamping device. For clarity, it should be noted that the support is a different or alternative element from the vertical profile: while the vertical profile is a structural element of the partition that extends vertically along the entire height of the installation, the support is a smaller connecting element whose specific function is to join the support component to a flat structure, such as a glass panel or a partition wall. The adjustment cavity of the support is the element that allows its assembly to the support component, while the fixing groove is the element that allows its attachment to the flat structure.This configuration allows the system to be fixed directly to partition panels or walls, without the need for intermediate vertical profiles. The bracket acts as a transition element between the support component (which provides the cross-section adjustment functionality) and the flat structure to which the assembly is attached. The adjustment cavity allows the bracket to be assembled to the support component, while the fixing groove provides the means to secure a flat structure using a tightening device, which can be screws, clamps, or other clamping systems. This design offers significant advantages in terms of application versatility, as it allows the adjustable fixing system to be used in configurations where there is no vertical profile, such as in corners of partitions with fixed glass panels or in installations where the cross profile must be fixed directly to a side wall. In a preferred embodiment of the support configuration, the fixing slot is oriented in a plane normal to the transverse direction defined by the cross-profile. This specific orientation of the slot means that the flat structure to which it is attached (typically a partition panel) is oriented perpendicular to the cross-profile. For clarity, a plane normal to the axial direction of the cross-profile is a plane perpendicular to that direction, i.e., a plane containing the cross-section of the profile. The fixing slot, oriented in this plane, accommodates the edge of the flat structure, which is thus positioned perpendicular to the cross-profile. This configuration is typical for corner shower or bath enclosures. The standard orientation of the groove ensures that the panel is correctly aligned with the cross profile, maintaining the rectangular geometry of the enclosure. One embodiment that defines a specific application of the system envisions the cross-profile comprising rigid mounting means for attaching to the upper end of a partition wall. In this configuration, the cross-profile acts as an upper structural element that caps and stiffens the top of a fixed partition panel. Rigid assembly means can take various forms, such as insertion slots, clamping systems, structural adhesives, or combinations thereof. Their defining characteristic is that they establish a rigid connection between the cross profile and the partition wall, so that both elements act as a single unit. This rigidity is necessary for the cross profile to correctly transmit the loads from the partition wall to the supporting component and, through it, to the external element to which the system is attached. In an embodiment particularly relevant for partitions with sliding doors, the cross profile comprises means for sliding attachment to an upper end portion of a sliding door. In this configuration, the cross profile acts as a guide profile that houses the suspension and sliding mechanisms of the sliding doors. It should be noted that the sliding joint between the cross profile and the sliding door is of a different nature from the limited sliding joint that constitutes the main object of the invention: while the sliding joint between the cross profile and the support component is limited to a certain length and is intended for positional adjustment during installation, the sliding joint between the cross profile and the sliding door is unlimited in the length of the profile and is intended to allow the movement of the door during normal use of the partition. The sliding joint allows the sliding door to move longitudinally along the cross profile, while maintaining the structural connection between the two elements. This sliding joint can be achieved using bearing systems, sliding rollers, or any other mechanism that allows controlled relative movement between the door and the guide profile. Finally, a complete product implementation includes a shower enclosure for shower trays or bathtubs that incorporates a concealed fixing system in any of the configurations described, either at one or both ends. The fixing system does not necessarily have to be the same at both ends. This flexibility allows the system to be adapted to different installation conditions at each end of the transverse profile. For example, one end might use the configuration with a plate and through-bolt, while the other end might use the configuration with an end connector, depending on the available space and the structural elements to which the system must be attached in each case. This design integrates the fixing system as a functional component of a complete partition, providing all the advantages of adjustability, ease of assembly and hidden aesthetics in a finished product. The concealed fixing system used in these designs overcomes the limitations of conventional compensation systems, which rely on additional U-shaped profiles or complex assemblies that increase both installation costs and the final product price. The proposed solution offers simple construction, functional efficiency, and superior aesthetics, while also providing the necessary adjustability to compensate for manufacturing or installation discrepancies. The system's versatility allows it to be used both in connections between structural profiles of the shower enclosure and in direct connection with sliding doors or fixed panels, providing in all cases the adjustable functionality that characterizes the invention. The system's completely concealed nature once installed maintains the clean and modern aesthetic demanded by contemporary bathroom installations. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS To complete the description and to aid in a better understanding of the characteristics of the invention, this descriptive document is accompanied, as an integral part thereof, by figures which, for illustrative and non-limiting purposes, depict the following: Figure 1 - Shows a front view of a shower enclosure comprising a concealed fixing system as claimed, with a fixed wall and a sliding door relative to the fixing system. Figure 2 - Shows a detailed view of a bottom perspective of an embodiment of the concealed fixing system, comprising the plate, the transverse profile being fixed to the seat of the support component, showing the vertical profile in a semi-transparent state that allows the arrangement of the support component to be appreciated. Figure 3A - Detailed view of a perspective of the concealed fixing system that uses the plate, with the cross profile detached from the seat of the support component, indicating with an arrow the direction that the cross profile must follow to be assembled to the support component. Figure 3B - Shows a detailed view similar to that shown in Figure 3A in which the cross-section profile is fitted to the seat of the support component, with the plate in an open position, so that said cross-section profile can be inserted into or removed from said seat by moving it in a vertical direction. Figure 3C - Shows a detailed view similar to that shown in Figure 3A with the cross profile adjusted to the seat of the support component, and the plate in the closed state, the through anchoring element being adjusted to the removable fixing means of the cross profile and passing through the slot of the folding plate, such that the cross profile is at one end of its adjustment range with respect to the support component. Figure 3D - Shows a detailed view similar to that shown in Figure 3C, but with the cross-section located at the opposite end of its adjustment range with respect to the support component, demonstrating the adjustability of the system. Figure 4 - Shows a detailed view similar to that shown in Figure 3D, in which the plate comprises two through slots, instead of one, with the anchoring through one of them, which allows us to interpret that said plate could be used to fix the other end part of the cross-section profile, as said slots are parallel and symmetrical. Figure 5A shows a detailed exploded view in which the fixing stop is axially displaced with respect to an inner portion of the end of the cross-section profile. It can also be seen that the fixing stop includes a fixing hole and that the end of the cross-section profile includes a through-hole. Figure 5B - Shows another detailed view, similar to that shown in Figure 5A, where you can see the fixing stop axially adjusted to the inside of the end part of the cross-section profile, with the holes concentric and fixed to the through anchoring element, by means of the rigid and removable joint. Figure 6A - Shows a rear perspective view of the support comprising an adjustment cavity that is assembled to the support component, and a fixing slot that can be assembled, by means of a tightening means, to a flat structure. Figure 6B - Shows a front perspective view of the support that allows a better appreciation of the adjustment cavity that is assembled to the support component, and the fixing groove that can be assembled, by means of a tightening device, to a flat structure. Figure 7 - Shows a perspective view of the support, as shown in Figures 6A and 6B, in which the plate comprises two parallel slots. Figure 8 - Shows a perspective view of the support attached to a cross-profile, through a support component, by the adjustment cavity, and to a glass partition by the fixing groove. Figure 9A - Shows a detail of the top of a vertical profile where the mount is attached to the support component, showing the receiving and anchoring means. Figure 9B - Shows an exploded detailed view of the end connector with respect to the cross-sectional profile as well as the locking means and the fixing screw, showing, by means of the dashed line, how they would be assembled. Figure 9C - Shows a cross-sectional profile view, for the embodiments of Figures 9A and 9B, i.e., the embodiment comprising an end connector. Figure 10 - Shows an exploded detailed view of the fastening system comprising fastening means comprising an end connector attached to the end part of the cross profile by means of the sliding joint; the locking means that limits the displacement of the sliding joint between the end connector and the cross profile, and the fixing screw that joins the end connector to the receiving and anchoring means. Figure 11A - Shows a detailed view of the fastening system comprising the fastening means comprising an end connector attached to the end part of the cross profile, showing the fixing screw in exploded view, to understand the operation of the assembly, the cross profile being at one end of the sliding joint between the end connector and the end part of the cross profile. Figure 11B - Shows a detailed view of the fastening system, similar to that shown in Figure 11A, where the cross-profile is located at the opposite end of the sliding joint between the end connector and the end portion of the cross-profile, of the oyster in Figure 11A. List of elements shown in the figures: (1) Sliding door (2) Planar structure (3) Vertical profile (4) Cross-section (41) Profile hole (5) Plate (51) Passing Coliseum (6) Hinged joint (7) Support component (71) Seat (8) Anchorage through element (9) Fixing stop (91) Fixing hole (10) Support (101) Adjustment cavity (102) Fixing slot (11) End connector (12) Locking means (13) Reception and anchoring means (14) Fixing screw (15) Mount Description of preferred realizations The invention is described below with reference to the figures that illustrate it, which represent the preferred embodiments of the concealed and adjustable fixing system for structural elements of shower or bath screens. In general, Figures 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D show an assembly sequence for the first embodiment of the fastening system, illustrating the relative arrangement of its main components. Figures 5A and 5B show in detail the configuration of the fastening stop (9) and its relationship to the cross-section (4) and the through-bolt anchoring element (8). Figures 6A, 6B, 7, and 8 illustrate the configuration of the support (10) and its relationship to the support component (7) and the flat structure (2). Figures 9A, 9B, 9C, 10, 11A, and 11B show the second embodiment of the fastening system, based on the end connector (11). First implementation: fixing system with plate and through slot In the first embodiment, represented in Figures 3A to 3D and in Figures 5A and 5B, the fixing system comprises a transverse profile (4), a support component (7), a plate (5), a through anchoring element (8) and, optionally, a fixing stop (9). The transverse profile (4) is the horizontal structural element of the system, located at the top of the partition, above the fixed or sliding panels. The transverse profile (4) has an end portion at each of its two ends, which is the area of ​​the profile intended to be joined to the support component (7). The end portion of the transverse profile (4) includes a through-profile hole (41), oriented in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the profile, which serves as an anchor point for the through-anchoring element (8). The support component (7) is the element that is rigidly fixed to the external environment, which can be a partition, a wall, or another structural element of the installation, such as a vertical profile (3), as shown in Figure 4. The support component (7) comprises a preferably U-shaped seat (71), open at its upper surface, whose inner dimensions correspond to the outer dimensions of the end portion of the cross-section (4). This dimensional correspondence, referred to herein as the "fit," allows the end portion of the cross-section (4) to be housed in the seat (71) with a controlled clearance that permits axial sliding of the cross-section (4) relative to the support component (7), while preventing movement in other directions. The seat (71), open at its upper surface, allows the cross-section (4) to be easily inserted and removed during assembly and disassembly operations, without the need to detach the support component (7) from its attachment to the external environment. As can be seen in Figures 3A and 3B, the plate (5) is a flat piece comprising at least one through slot (51), and is joined to the support component (7) by means of a hinge joint (6). The hinge joint (6) comprises a horizontally oriented axis, which allows the plate (5) to rotate between a horizontal plane and a vertical plane. Figure 3A shows the plate (5) in the open position, i.e., rotated towards a vertical plane, so that it does not interfere with the insertion of the transverse profile (4) into the seat (71) of the support component (7) from the top. Figure 3B also shows the plate (5) in the open position in the vertical plane with the transverse profile (7) inserted into the support component (7), while in Figures 3C and 3D, the plate (5) is in a closed position, in the horizontal plane, such that the through slot (51) is aligned with the profile hole (41) of the transverse profile (4), allowing the passage of the anchoring element (8) through both. The through slot (51) is an elongated or elliptical hole made in the plate (5), oriented in the axial direction of the transverse profile (4). The length of the through slot (51) in this axial direction directly determines the available adjustment distance, i.e., the length to which the sliding joint between the transverse profile (4) and the support component (7) is limited. In the preferred embodiment, the plate (5) comprises only two parallel through slots (51), both oriented in the axial direction, as can be seen in Figure 4. This configuration with two through slots (51) allows the same plate (5) to be used interchangeably at either end of the transverse profile (4), so that each through slot (51) is used for anchoring each end part, reducing the number of product references and simplifying manufacturing and packaging logistics. The through-anchor element (8) is preferably a screw that threads into the profile hole (41) at the end of the cross-section (4), passing through the through-slot (51) of the plate (5). When screwed in, the through-anchor element (8) traps the through-slot (51) between its head and the outer surface of the cross-section (4), so that the cross-section (4) is attached to the support component (7) via the plate (5). While the through-anchor element (8) is not fully tightened, the cross-section (4) can slide axially within the seat (71) of the support component (7), with a range of motion limited by the length of the through-slot (51).Once the desired position is reached, the through anchoring element (8) can be fully tightened, generating a clamping force between the plate (5) and the extreme part of the transverse profile (4) that immobilizes the sliding and permanently fixes the position of the transverse profile (4) with respect to the support component (7). The assembly process for this first embodiment, illustrated in Figures 3A to 3D, is carried out in two phases. In the first phase, with the plate (5) in the open position, the end of the cross-profile (4) is inserted into the seat (71) of the support component (7) from the top, without interference. In the second phase, the plate (5) is rotated to the closed position, the through-bolt anchoring element (8) is inserted through the through-bolt (51) and screwed into the profile hole (41) of the cross-profile (4), establishing the adjustable connection. The positional adjustment of the cross-profile (4) is achieved by sliding it axially within the seat (71), within the range permitted by the through-bolt (51), and once the correct position is reached, the through-bolt anchoring element (8) is tightened. In the embodiment incorporating the fixing stop (9), shown in Figures 5A and 5B, the fastening means further comprise a piece that is inserted into the interior of the transverse profile (4) at its end, fitting to the inner section of said profile so that it is axially immobilized with respect to it. The fixing stop (9) comprises a fixing hole (91) which, once the fixing stop (9) is inserted into the interior of the transverse profile (4), is concentric with the through-profile hole (41) located in the outer wall of the end of the transverse profile (4). This concentricity ensures that the through-anchoring element (8) can simultaneously pass through the profile hole (41) of the transverse profile (4) and the fixing hole (91) of the fixing stop (9), establishing the rigid and detachable connection.As can be seen in Figures 5A and 5B, the fixing stop (9) is housed inside the transverse profile (4), completely hidden once the system is assembled. The fixing stop (9) has a dual function: firstly, it distributes the axial loads exerted by the anchoring through-element (8) over a larger area of ​​the transverse profile's (4) inner section, preventing local deformations in thin-walled profiles; secondly, it acts as a positioning element that ensures the correct alignment of the anchoring through-element (8) with respect to the transverse profile (4) during assembly. Second embodiment: fastening system with end connector In the second embodiment, represented in figures 9A, 9B, 9C, 10, 11A and 11B, the attachment means comprise an end connector (11), a locking means (12), a receiving and anchoring means (13), and a fixing screw (14). As can be seen in Figure 10, the end connector (11) is a component that is joined to the end portion of the cross-section (4) by means of a sliding joint in the axial direction defined by the cross-section (4). In the preferred embodiment, the end connector (11) is partially inserted into the end portion of the cross-section (4), such that part of the end connector (11) is housed inside the cross-section (4) and another part remains outside. This partial fit configuration establishes a guide that controls the direction of sliding, preventing misalignment or unwanted lateral movement during fitting, and better distributing the loads between the end connector (11) and the cross-section (4).Unlike the first embodiment, in which the sliding joint occurs between the through anchoring element (8) and the through slot (51) of the plate (5), in this second embodiment the sliding joint occurs directly between the end connector (11) and the transverse profile (4), with the end connector (11) being the one that moves relative to the transverse profile (4) in the axial direction. The locking means (12), visible in Figure 10, is attached to the end connector (11) and is configured to limit the displacement of the sliding joint between the end connector (11) and the cross-section (4), keeping both parts joined. The locking means (12) acts by creating a clamping force between the end connector (11) and the cross-section (4), preventing relative displacement between them once the desired position is reached, analogously to how the clamping force of the through-bolt anchoring element (8) on the plate (5) limits sliding in the first embodiment. The receiving and anchoring means (13) is located on the support component (7) and is joined to the end connector (11) by a rigid, detachable connection. As shown in Figures 9A and 9B, this connection is made using a fixing screw (14) that connects the end connector (11) and the receiving and anchoring means (13) through a through-hole in the end connector (11) and a corresponding hole in the receiving and anchoring means (13), which aligns with the through-hole in the end connector (11). The alignment of these two holes ensures the correct alignment of the end connector (11) and the receiving and anchoring means (13) during final fastening. The fixing screw (14) allows for easy assembly using conventional tools, and its progressive tightening facilitates installation and allows for fine positioning adjustments before final tightening. One advantage of this second embodiment is that the end connector (11) can be pre-assembled to the end of the cross-profile (4) before on-site installation, simplifying the assembly process. Once the end connector (11) is pre-assembled to the cross-profile (4), the assembly is inserted into the seat (71) of the support component (7) and secured to the receiving and anchoring means (13) using the fixing screw (14), thus completing the connection. Vertical profile construction In the embodiment where the system comprises a vertical profile (3), as shown in Figure 4, this profile is positioned perpendicular to the transverse profile (4), resting on the floor or shower tray, and is connected to the support component (7) by means of a mount (15) located at its upper end. The mount (15) is the element of the vertical profile (3) that has a shape suitable for assembly to the support component (7), and may comprise a cross-section with a shape complementary to that of the support component (7), so that both elements fit together stably. In this embodiment, the support component (7) acts as a connecting element between the vertical profile (3) and the transverse profile (4), providing both the structural connection between the two profiles and the axial adjustment functionality of the transverse profile (4).This configuration is typical of the corners of shower or bath screens, in which the vertical profile (3) provides the structural rigidity necessary to support the loads transmitted by the transverse profile (4), especially in configurations with sliding doors (1) where the transverse profile (4) acts as a guide and supports the weight of the sliding doors (1). Supported realization In the alternative embodiment to the one above, represented in Figures 6A, 6B, 7 and 8, the system comprises a support (10) instead of a vertical profile (3). The support (10) is a connecting element smaller than the vertical profile (3), whose specific function is to join the support component (7) to a flat structure (2), such as a glass panel or a partition wall, without the need for intermediate vertical profiles. As can be seen in Figures 6A and 6B, the support (10) comprises an adjustment cavity (101) assembled to the support component (7), and a fixing groove (102) that can be assembled to the flat structure (2). The adjustment cavity (101) is the element that allows the support (10) to be assembled to the support component (7), while the fixing groove (102) is the element that allows it to be attached to the flat structure (2). In the preferred embodiment, shown in Figures 7 and 8, the fixing groove (102) is oriented in a plane normal to the axial direction of the transverse profile (4), that is, in a plane perpendicular to that direction that contains the cross-section of the transverse profile (4).This orientation allows the edge of the flat structure (2) to be inserted into the fixing groove (102), thus positioning it perpendicular to the transverse profile (4). This is a typical configuration for shower or bath enclosures with corners, where the side panel of the enclosure is positioned perpendicular to the horizontal guide profile. The standard orientation of the fixing groove (102) ensures that the flat structure (2) is correctly aligned with the transverse profile (4), maintaining the rectangular geometry of the enclosure. This embodiment with support (10) offers significant advantages in terms of application versatility, as it allows the adjustable fixing system to be used in configurations where there is no vertical profile (3), such as in corners of partitions with fixed glass panels or in installations where the transverse profile (4) must be fixed directly to a side wall. In all the described embodiments, the fixing system is completely concealed once installed, as all connecting elements are housed inside the seat (71) of the support component (7) or inside the cross profile (4), with no fixing elements visible from outside the enclosure. This feature provides the clean, modern aesthetic required for contemporary bathroom installations, while also allowing access to the fixing elements for adjustments or maintenance simply by removing the cross profile (4) from the seat (71) of the support component (7).

Claims

1. A concealed, adjustable fixing system for structural elements of shower or bath enclosures, characterized in that it comprises: - a transverse profile (4) comprising an end portion; - a support component (7), configured to be rigidly fixed to an external means, wherein said support component (7) comprises a seat (71) fitted to the end portion of the transverse profile (4); and - fastening means that join the support component (7) and the end portion of the transverse profile (4) by means of a sliding joint limited to a predetermined length, with respect to a direction defined by an axial direction of the transverse profile (4). 2.A fastening system according to the preceding claim, wherein the fastening means comprise: - a plate (5) comprising at least one through-slot (51), attached to the support component (7); and - an anchoring through-slot (8); wherein the anchoring through-slot (8) is fixed, by means of a rigid and removable joint, to the end portion of the cross-section profile (4), passing through the through-slot (51), thus forming a sliding joint limited to the length determined by the length of the through-slot (51), in the axial direction of the cross-section profile (4).

3. A fastening system according to the preceding claim, wherein the plate (5) is attached to the support component (7) by means of a hinged joint (6).

4. A fastening system according to the preceding claim, wherein the hinged joint (6) comprises a shaft oriented in a horizontal direction. 5.A fastening system according to any of claims 2 to 4, wherein the plate (5) comprises only two parallel through-slots (51), both oriented in the axial direction of the transverse profile (4).

6. A fastening system according to any of claims 2 to 5, wherein the fastening means comprise a fastening stop (9) axially fitted to an inner portion of the end portion of the transverse profile (4); wherein said fastening stop (9) comprises a fastening hole (91) concentric with a through-profile hole (41) located in the end portion of the transverse profile (4); both holes (41, 91) being fixed to the through-anchoring element (8) by means of a rigid and detachable connection. 7.A fastening system according to claim 1, wherein the fastening means comprise: - an end connector (11) attached to the end portion of the cross profile (4) by means of a sliding joint in the direction of the cross profile (4); - a locking means (12) attached to the end connector (11), configured to limit the displacement of the sliding joint between the end connector (11) and the cross profile (4), keeping both parts joined; and - a receiving and anchoring means (13) located on the support component (7), attached by means of a detachable rigid joint to the end connector (11). 8.A fastening system according to the preceding claim, wherein the fastening means comprise: - a fixing screw (14); - a through-hole located in the end connector (11); and - a hole located in the receiving and anchoring means (13), coinciding with the through-hole of the end connector (11), wherein the fixing screw (14) connects the end connector (11) and the receiving and anchoring means (13) by means of a rigid, detachable joint.

9. A fastening system according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the end connector (11) is attached to the end portion of the transverse profile (4) and is partially axially adjusted to an inner portion of the end portion of the transverse profile (4).

10. A fastening system according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a vertical profile (3) perpendicular to the transverse profile (4), wherein the vertical profile (3) comprises a mount (15) located at an upper end portion assembled to the support component (7).

11. A fixing system according to any of claims 1 to 9, comprising a support (10) comprising: - an adjustment cavity (101) assembled to the support component (7); and - a fixing groove (102) attachable to a flat structure (2).

12. A fixing system according to the preceding claim, wherein the fixing groove (102) is oriented in a plane normal to the axial direction defined by the transverse profile (4).

13. A fixing system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the transverse profile (4) comprises means for rigid assembly to an upper end portion of a partition wall.

14. A fixing system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the transverse profile (4) comprises means for sliding attachment to an upper end portion of a sliding door (1). 15.Shower enclosure for shower trays or bathtubs, comprising a concealed fixing system defined in any of the preceding claims.