Frame size of a fence element

Abstract

The present invention relates to a frame amount of a fence element as well as such a fence element. This assembly is remarkable in that it comprises a longitudinal profile (5) and a longitudinal cover (6), in that the longitudinal profile (5) has an open cross-section, with two longitudinal side walls (50) joined by a bottom (51), in that this bottom (51) is pierced with one or more orifices (510) for the passage of fasteners, in that each side wall (50) includes a longitudinal groove (505), the two longitudinal grooves (505) opening towards the interior of the profile (5), opposite each other, in that the cover (6) includes along its two longitudinal sides (601), a longitudinal fastening head (602), so that the profile (5) and the cover (6) can be assembled by axially inserting the two fastening heads (602) respectively into the two grooves (505), so as to close the profile (5) with an open cross-section.Figure for the summary: Fig. 3.

Description

Title of the invention: Frame upright of a fence element FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The invention lies in the technical field of fencing elements, such as a gate, a wicket gate or a barrier.

[0002] The present invention relates more specifically to a frame post of such a fence element, as well as to a fence element comprising a frame equipped with this post. STATE OF THE ART

[0003] In the accompanying [Fig. 1], an example of such a fence element 1 can be seen, in this case a gate. This fence element 1 comprises a frame 2, formed by the assembly and fastening of two uprights 21 with two crossbars 22. In addition, at least one screening element 3 is mounted and fastened inside the frame 2. This screening element is, for example, a panel 31 or a slat 32.

[0004] When such a fence element is metallic, there are two types of assembly of its constituent elements, namely a welded assembly or a mechanical assembly.

[0005] Welding involves joining two metal parts together using heat to melt a filler material, often a metal or alloy similar to those of the parts being joined. This method offers several advantages, including high mechanical strength of the weld and high structural integrity. However, it requires specific expertise and equipment to ensure high-quality welds. Furthermore, the resulting assembly is not detachable.

[0006] Mechanical assembly overcomes these drawbacks since the parts are fastened together using various components, such as screws, bolts, nuts, rivets, or clips. This method offers several advantages, including ease of implementation, adaptability to different materials, and no thermal deformation of the parts. Furthermore, mechanical assembly often allows for simpler disassembly and replacement of the fence element components, thus facilitating maintenance and subsequent repairs. However, this method may require specific tools and precision in the assembly process to ensure a secure and durable connection.

[0007] In the field of metal joinery, particularly aluminum joinery, closed profiles are used to manufacture the uprights, that is to say, profiles whose contour, in cross-section, is closed. In the attached [Fig.2], one can thus see an example of such a post 21 with a closed contour.

[0008] This rectangular cross-sectional upright 21 comprises two parallel longitudinal walls 210, joined by two transverse walls 211.

[0009] Assembling such a post 21 with a cross member 22, using screws, bolts, etc., requires complex machining to create openings, such as lights or holes, inside this post, more precisely through the transverse walls 211. This machining is time-consuming and requires investment in expensive equipment, such as machining centers.

[0010] Moreover, these closed profiles have limitations in terms of design flexibility, possibilities of adding functional elements (for example adding a load distribution plate) and technical assembly solutions (for example assembly without screws, such as Pop rivet assembly, stamping or material deformation).

[0011] The main problems encountered with existing solutions lie in the complexity of manufacturing processes, the high costs associated with the necessary equipment, and the limitations in design and customization. Description of the invention

[0012] The invention aims to solve the aforementioned problems and to propose an amount for a fence element frame that can be subjected to a punching, deformation or drilling process, in a simplified, safe and economical manner.

[0013] For this purpose, the invention relates to a frame post of a fence element, such as a gate, a wicket gate or a barrier.

[0014] According to the invention, this upright comprises a longitudinal profile and a longitudinal cover, in that the longitudinal profile extends along a longitudinal axis X-X' and comprises two longitudinal side walls, each side wall having a first end and a second end, and the first ends of the two side walls being joined by a base, so that the longitudinal profile has an open cross-section, in that the base is pierced with one or more openings for the passage of fasteners, such as screws or bolts, in that each side wall comprises on its inner face and at its second end, a longitudinal groove parallel to the longitudinal axis X-X', the two longitudinal grooves opening opposite each other, in that each longitudinal groove opens into the interior of the profile through an opening whose width is less than the width of the groove, in that the longitudinal cover comprises, along its two longitudinal sides, a longitudinal fixing head configured to be received in the groove, in that the width of this longitudinal fixing head is greater than the width of the mouthpiece, so that the longitudinal profile and the longitudinal cover can be assembled by axially inserting the two fixing heads respectively into the two grooves, so as to close the open section profile.

[0015] Thanks to these features of the invention, the two opposite faces of the bottom of the upright are easily accessible due to the shape of the profile with its open cross-section. Consequently, this bottom can be easily subjected to punching, deformation without drilling, or drilling, for example.

[0016] Such a profile offers the possibility of using standard punching units, thus simplifying manufacturing processes and reducing the costs associated with specialized equipment, such as machining centers.

[0017] Another significant advantage of the invention lies in its impact on operator safety. By avoiding complex and potentially dangerous machining operations during the manufacture of the upright according to the invention, the risk of accidents is reduced and working conditions for operators are improved. Furthermore, it is possible to use less qualified personnel for both the production and maintenance of these uprights.

[0018] Furthermore, the cover allows the open profile to be closed and guarantees the geometric stability of the upright as a whole, while offering mechanical resistance, quality and durability equivalent to those of closed profiles known from the prior art.

[0019] According to other advantageous and non-limiting features of the invention, taken alone or in combination:

[0020] -the two longitudinal lateral walls are flat and parallel to each other and in that the bottom is flat and orthogonal to these two lateral walls;

[0021] -the fixing head has in cross-section the shape of a circle whose diameter is greater than the width of the opening of the groove of the profile in which it is received;

[0022] -each groove has, in cross-section, a circular shape and in that the width of the groove is equal to its diameter;

[0023] - the longitudinal cover comprises a flat wall, which extends at each of its two longitudinal sides, by a first branch which is perpendicular to it then by a second branch perpendicular to the first branch, then by the fixing head.

[0024] - the profile and the cover are made of metal, preferably aluminum;

[0025] - the bottom is positioned recessed relative to the first ends of the two side walls, so as to form with them, an open recess towards the outside of the profile.

[0026] The invention also relates to a fence element, such as a gate, a wicket gate or a barrier, comprising a frame formed by the assembly of two uprights and two crossbars and by at least one screening element inserted and fixed inside said frame.

[0027] In accordance with the invention, at least one of the two amounts is an amount such as above and the bottom of the amount is oriented towards the inside of the frame. DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0028] Other features, objectives and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description, which is purely illustrative and not limiting, and which should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings on which:

[0029] Fig. 1 represents a fence element, here a gate.

[0030] Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a frame upright conforming to the prior art.

[0031] Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the profile and the post cover according to the invention, shown in separate position.

[0032] Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the profile and the post cover according to the invention, shown in assembled position.

[0033] Fig. 5 is a detail view of part of the profile and the cover of the upright according to the invention.

[0034] The [Fig.6] is a diagram representing a bending test.

[0035] The [Fig.7] is a diagram representing a torsion test. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0036] Referring to [Fig. 3], one can see an upright 4 of a frame of a fence element according to the invention. Such a fence element is, for example, a gate, a wicket gate, or a barrier.

[0037] The upright 4 includes a longitudinal profile 5 and a longitudinal cover 6. By "longitudinal" is meant having an elongated shape.

[0038] The longitudinal profile 5 extends along a longitudinal axis X-X'.

[0039] On [Fig. 1], it will be noted that in the closing element 1, the amount 21 known from the prior art is replaced by the amount 4 in accordance with the invention.

[0040] The cache 6 is also known by the technical terms "parclose" or "key".

[0041] The longitudinal profile 5 comprises two longitudinal side walls 50, joined by a bottom 51, so that the longitudinal profile 5 has an open cross-section.

[0042] In the embodiment shown in [Fig. 3], the profile 5 has a U-shaped cross-section and a generally rectangular shape such that both sides 50 are flat, as is the bottom 51, and both sides 50 are longer than the bottom 51. These flat sides 50 are parallel to each other. The bottom 51 is orthogonal to the two side walls 50.

[0043] However, the profile 5 can also have a general square shape.

[0044] Furthermore, although not shown in the figures, the side walls 50 may be slightly curved instead of being flat, or may include several chamfered edges. For example, the profile 5 may have a cross-section in the shape of an open pentagon, with the base 51 forming the third side of this pentagon.

[0045] Each side wall 50 has a first end and a second end. By convention, the "first end" 501 is designated as the end by which the wall 50 is connected to the bottom 51 and the "second end" 502 is designated as the end opposite the end 501.

[0046] By "profile 5 with open cross section", it is meant that the two second ends 502 are not joined by an element as in a profile with closed cross section.

[0047] Preferably, a stiffening rib 52, here in the shape of an L, joins the first end 501 to the bottom 51, in order to delimit with the wall 50, a longitudinal opening 53. This rib 52 reinforces the mechanical resistance of the profile.

[0048] Each side wall 50 comprises an internal face 503 (facing the inside of the profile 5) and an opposite external face 504.

[0049] Each longitudinal lateral wall 50 comprises on its inner face 503 and at its second end 502, a longitudinal groove 505 which extends along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis X-X'. The two longitudinal grooves 505 open opposite each other.

[0050] As can be seen more clearly in the detail view of [Fig.5], each groove 505 opens into the interior of the profile 5, through an opening 506 whose width L1 is less than the width L2 of the groove 505, so as to form a narrowing whose role will be explained later.

[0051] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the groove 505 has a circular cross-section (in a plane perpendicular to the X-X' axis) and the width L2 is equal to the diameter of the groove. This groove 505 may, however, have a cross-section of a different shape.

[0052] As can be seen in [Fig.3], the longitudinal cover 6 is an elongated element (with longitudinal axis Xl-X' 1), which includes a central wall 60, provided with two longitudinal sides 601. Preferably, the wall 60 is a flat plate.

[0053] Along each of these two longitudinal sides 601 extends a longitudinal fixing head 602. Each head 602 is configured and dimensioned to be received in the groove 505 of the profile 5. Furthermore, the width L3 of the head 602 is greater than the width L1 of the opening 506. Consequently, the cover 6 can be assembled with the profile 5 by axial insertion (i.e., sliding) of each head 602 into a groove 505. This closes the contour of the profile 5 (see the position shown in [Fig. 4]). In this assembled position, the axes X-X' and X1-X' are parallel.

[0054] Furthermore, because the width L3 of the head 602 is greater than the width L1 of the opening 506, once the fixing head 602 is inserted into the groove 505, this head 602 cannot come out laterally through the opening 506. This prevents any unintentional separation of the cover 6 and the profile 5 and helps to reinforce the mechanical resistance of the upright 4 thus formed.

[0055] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the head 602 has a circular cross-section, so that its width L3 is equal to its diameter.

[0056] The head 602 may have a cross-section of a shape other than circular, provided that it can be received in the groove 505 and that its width L3 is greater than the width L1 of the mouth 506.

[0057] The widths L1 and L2 are measured in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X-X' and the width L3 in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis Xl-X' 1.

[0058] Moreover, although the heads 602 can be located directly along the longitudinal sides 601, it is possible, advantageously and as is clearer in figures 3 and 5, for the wall 60 to extend on each of its two longitudinal sides 601, by a first branch 603 which is perpendicular to it, then by a second branch 604 perpendicular to the first branch 603, (so as to form an L), then by the fixing head 602 located at the end of the second branch 604.

[0059] The second branch 604 is dimensioned to be able to be received in the mouthpiece 506.

[0060] This allows, as can be better seen in [Fig. 4], that the plane PI passing through the respective centers of the two heads 602 is parallel to but recessed from the plane P2 of the outer face 605 of the wall 60 when the latter is flat. Thus, when the cover 6 is assembled with the profile 5, this outer face 605 is flush with the second ends 502 of the walls 50, which is more aesthetic.

[0061] When the frame 2 of the fence element 1 is formed, the bottom 51 is oriented towards the inside of the frame.

[0062] Furthermore, preferably, the base 51 is recessed relative to the first ends 501 of the side walls 50, so as to form with them a recess 54 open towards the outside of the profile. This recess 54 allows the ends of the upper and lower crossbars 22 to be received, as well as the shading elements (see [Fig. 1]).

[0063] In order to be able to fix the cross members 22, it is necessary to form one or more holes 510 through the bottom 51. Each hole 510 is dimensioned to allow the passage of the fixing elements (screws, bolts, etc.).

[0064] Due to the open shape of the profile 5, it is easy to pass a drilling, deformation or punching tool between the two walls 50 to reach the bottom 51 and make the orifice 510.

[0065] The orifice 510 can be made at the factory during the manufacture of the profile 5 or on site by the end user during the assembly of the fence elements. In the latter case, the profile is sold without orifices 510.

[0066] Preferably, the profile 5 and the cover 6 are made of metal, preferably aluminum.

[0067] Preferably also when the profile 5 and the cover 6 are made of metal, they are made of the same metal, in order to ensure a good combination in terms of mechanical resistance and aesthetics and to avoid an electrolysis phenomenon between the two.

[0068] Preferably, the profile 5 and the cover 6 are manufactured by spinning.

[0069] Finally, the profile 5 is a single piece Geometric stability tests.

[0070] As previously explained, the cover 6, inserted axially into the profile 5 by sliding each head 602 into a groove 505, allows the external geometry of the profile 5 to be closed. This cover 6 not only has an aesthetic effect but also guarantees the geometric stability of the assembly.

[0071] The fixing heads 602 of the cover 6 serve as connecting elements with the profile 5 to create only a sliding movement between them and limit other movements, which allows optimal holding of the walls 50 between them.

[0072] Tests were carried out on the upright 4 according to the invention (with the cover 6 inserted into the profile 5).

[0073] The upright 4 was subjected to a bending stress by keeping its two ends fixed and applying a force at its center (see arrow F in [Fig. 6]). It was also subjected to torsional stress by exerting an opposing moment at each of its two ends (see arrows M and -M on [Fig.7]).

[0074] The test results showed that the 4-piece conforming to the invention offers mechanical resistance equivalent to that of traditional closed profiles.

[0075] Finally, it should be noted that the smaller the clearance J (see [Fig. 5]) between the fixing head 602 and the groove 505, the better the results in terms of mechanical resistance. Preferably, the clearance J is zero.

Claims

Demands

1. A frame upright (4) of a fence element (1), such as a gate, a wicket gate or a barrier, characterized in that it comprises a longitudinal profile (5) and a longitudinal cover (6), in that the longitudinal profile (5) extends along a longitudinal axis X-X' and comprises two longitudinal side walls (50), each side wall (50) having a first end (501) and a second end (502) and the first ends (501) of the two side walls (50) being joined by a bottom (51), so that the longitudinal profile (5) has an open cross-section, in that the bottom (51) is pierced with one or more holes (510) for the passage of fasteners, such as screws or bolts, in that each side wall (50) comprises on its inner face (503) and at its second end (502), a longitudinal groove (505) parallel to the longitudinal axis X-X',the two longitudinal grooves (505) opening opposite each other, in that each longitudinal groove (505) opens into the interior of the profile (5), through an opening (506) whose width (L1) is less than the width (L2) of the groove (505), in that the longitudinal cover (6) comprises along its two longitudinal sides (601), a longitudinal fixing head (602), configured to be received in the groove (505), in that the width (L3) of this longitudinal fixing head (602) is greater than the width (L1) of the opening (506), so that the longitudinal profile (5) and the longitudinal cover (6) can be assembled by axially inserting the two fixing heads (602) respectively into the two grooves (505), so as to close the profile (5) with an open section.

2. Amount according to claim 1, characterized in that the two longitudinal side walls (50) are flat and parallel to each other and in that the bottom (51) is flat and orthogonal to these two side walls (50).

3. Amount according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the fixing head (602) has in cross-section the shape of a circle whose diameter (L3) is greater than the width (L1) of the mouth (506) of the groove (505) of the profile (5) in which it is received.

4. Amount according to claim 3, characterized in that each groove (505) has a circular shape in cross-section and in that the width (L2) of the groove (505) is equal to its diameter.

5. Amount according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the longitudinal cover (6) comprises a flat wall (60), which extends on each of its two longitudinal sides (601), by a first branch (603) which is perpendicular to it and then by a second branch (604) perpendicular to the first branch (603), and then by the fixing head (602).

6. Amount according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the profile (5) and the cover (6) are made of metal, preferably aluminum.

7. Amount according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bottom (51) is positioned in recess from the first ends (501) of the two side walls (50), so as to form with them, a recess (54) open towards the outside of the profile.

8. Fence element (1), such as a gate, a wicket gate or a barrier, comprising a frame (2) formed by the assembly of two uprights and two crossbars (22) and by at least one screening element (3) inserted and fixed inside said frame (2), characterized in that at least one of the two uprights is an upright (4) according to any one of the preceding claims and in that the bottom (51) of the upright (4) is oriented towards the inside of the frame (2).