A friction stay assembly with integrated hinge protection

Abstract

A friction stay assembly comprising a first elongate member 11 and a second elongate member 12 hinged to the first elongate member, a first hook configuration 14 mounted to the first elongate member with a shank portion and free end separated from the shank portion by a gap and a second hook configuration 15 mounted to the second elongate member with a similar configuration. The second hook configuration movable into a first, closed position in which the free end of the first hook configuration is positioned aligned with the gap of the second hook configuration and the free end of the second hook configuration is positioned aligned with the gap of the first hook configuration and a second, open position when the first elongate member and second elongate member are not aligned with one another. The hooks may be mounted on an upstanding L shaped member 29 perpendicular to the elongate members. The first and second elongate members may be hingedly connected via various connector arms 22 23 24 forming the friction mechanism. The hooks prevent the window panel being forced out of the window frame.

Description

Technical Field of the Invention The present invention relates generally to the field of windows and more particularly to a friction stay assembly for a window with integrated hinge protection for higher security requirements. Background to the Invention A friction stay assembly is an item mounted on both ends of a casement sash to control and arc movement and also create compression local to the hinge side once the window sash is fully closed. When the friction stay is used for higher security requirements (SBD windows) and when being mechanically loaded in a test environment, a typical friction stay assembly will not have the strength to cope with the loads applied, to ensure the friction stay passes the load requirements (3 kN perpendicular and 1 kN parallel to plane). Currently a solution to this issue is to provide a separate hinge protection device which is fixed to the sash of the window and to the outer frame. Such a hinge protection device normally consists of opposing hooks that sit in clearance of each other until an applied load causes movement of the sash and the opposing hooks engage. However, the prior art hinge protection devices must be manufactured for each type of window as windows can be manufactured from differing profiles that alter the relationship between the sash and outer frame mounted hinge protectors. Existing design solutions currently on the market do not satisfy the above requirements and the new design below solves all of the current issues. Summary of the Invention According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a friction stay assembly with integrated hinge protection, the friction stay assembly comprising a first elongate member, a second elongate member hinged to the first elongate member relative to a fixed point at a first end of the first elongate member and movably relative to a second end of the first elongate member, a first hook configuration mounted relative to the first elongate member, the first hook configuration having shank portion and free end separated from the shank portion by a gap and a second hook configuration mounted relative to the second elongate member, the second hook configuration having shank portion and free end separated from the shank portion by a gap, the first hook configuration and second hook configuration movable into a first, closed position in which the free end of the first hook configuration is positioned aligned with the gap of the second hook configuration and the free end of the second hook configuration is positioned aligned with the gap of the first hook configuration and a second, open position when the first elongate member and second elongate member are not aligned with one another. In another aspect of the invention, there is provided a casement window system comprising a window sash mounted within a window surround frame with at least one friction stay assembly with integrated hinge protection according to the first aspect. Providing a friction stay assembly as described above integrates the hinge protection components (the first hook configuration and second hook configuration) into the friction stay assembly, rather than mounting the hinge protection components to the window frame and the sash frame, which simplifies the fabrication process of the window whilst improving the consistency of the fitment of the hinge protection devices to windows of different profiles. The friction stay assembly of a preferred embodiment integrates the hinge protection in the form of the first hook configuration and second hook configuration, with the members of the friction stay assembly. The friction stay assembly will preferably be used in relation to a casement window with a moveable window leaf or sash which is hinged within a window surround frame. The window sash may pivot between an open and closed position. The movement of the window sash between the closed and open position and vice versa may have elements of sliding movement but is primarily a pivot movement. The window sash may be mounted to the window surround frame using a pair of friction stay assemblies, on opposite side edges of the window sash. The window sash may be mounted to the window surround frame with the friction stay assemblies at the top and bottom of the sash to pivot substantially horizontally, or the window sash may be mounted to the window surround frame with the friction stay assemblies on opposed lateral sides of the sash to pivot substantially vertically. The friction stay assembly may be manufactured of metal components. The friction stay assembly may be manufactured separately from the window surround frame and the moveable window leaf (usually glass located in a surround sash). The friction stay assembly preferably comprises a first elongate member. In a preferred form, the first elongate member may be mounted relative to the window surround frame. The first elongate member may be planar. The first elongate member may have a U-shaped or C-shaped cross-sectional shape with a channel within which one or both of the ends of one or more hinge components may be attached. The first elongate member may have a number of attachment openings formed therethrough to allow the first elongate member to be mounted relative to the window surround frame. Preferably, an elongate fastener such as a screw is used in one or more of the attachment openings to attach the first elongate member to the window surround frame. One or more of the attachment openings may be elongate openings to provide a degree of adjustment. An upper part (if top mounted) or outer part (if side mounted) of the first elongate member may mount the first hook configuration. The first elongate member of some friction stay assemblies may be provided with an end cap, particularly at an upper end. The end cap may be provided to enhance weather sealing and draught proofing performance. The end cap may be provided at the second end of the first elongate member. The end cap may be formed of a plastic material such as nylon for example. Attachment of the first hook configuration to the first elongate member will preferably be such that the friction stay assembly is mounted to allow use of an end cap. In a preferred embodiment, the end cap may be provided with a channel, depression or rebate in one or more outer sides thereof, into which a respective portion of the first hook configuration is received. The first hook configuration will preferably form a flush fit with an external portion of the end cap. The first end of the first elongate member may preferably be the end of the first elongate member opposite to the end relative to which the first hook configuration is attached, or the end opposite to the end attached to the window surround frame, preferably a lower end (if top mounted) or inner end (if side mounted) of the first elongate member. The second end of the first elongate member is preferably the end of the first elongate member located at the window surround frame end of the first elongate member, preferably an upper end (if top mounted) or outer end (if side mounted) of the first elongate member. The friction stay assembly may preferably comprise a second elongate member hinged to the first elongate member relative to a fixed point at a first end of the first elongate member and movably relative to a second end of the first elongate member. The second elongate member may sometimes be referred to as a vent arm. The second elongate member may preferably be planar. The second elongate member may have a number of attachment openings formed therethrough to allow the second elongate member to be mounted relative to the sash. Preferably, an elongate fastener such as a screw is used in one or more of the attachment openings to attach the second elongate member to the sash. One or more of the attachment openings may be elongate openings to provide a degree of adjustment. An upper end (if top mounted) or outer end (if side mounted) of the second elongate member be angled or asymmetrical to correspond to an internal shape of the end cap preferably provided at the second end of the first elongate member. The second hook configuration may be mounted relative to an upper end (if top mounted) or outer end (if side mounted) of the second elongate member. The second elongate member is preferably hinged to the first elongate member relative to a fixed point at a first end of the first elongate member and movably relative to a second end of the first elongate member. A hinge mechanism comprising one or more members may be used. Such a hinge mechanism may include a main connector stay connecting the first elongate member to the second elongate member. The main connector stay may preferably connect at a first end thereof to the first elongate member at or close to the first end of the first elongate member. The connection at or close to the first end of the first elongate member is preferably fixed in position, but about a pivot point allowing rotation of the main connector stay. A second end of the main connector stay may preferably connect to the second elongate member at a point between the ends of the second elongate member. The connection of the second end of the main connector stay is preferably fixed in position, but about a pivot point allowing rotation of the main connector stay. The connection of the second end of the main connector stay may be approximately central along the length of the second elongate member. At least one and preferably a pair of hinge arms may be provided. Preferably, a first hinge arm may connect to the main connector stay at a first end thereof and to the first elongate member at a second end thereof. The first end of the first hinge arm may connect approximately centrally to the main connector stay (although this position can vary) and to a slider mounted relative to the first elongate member at the second end. A second hinge arm may connect at a first end to an upper end (if top mounted) or outer end (if side mounted) of the second elongate member and at a second end to the slider mounted relative to the first elongate member. The respective second ends of the first hinge arm and the second hinge arms are preferably attached to the slider adjacent to one another. The connections at both ends of both hinge arms are preferably fixed in position, but about a pivot point allowing rotation of both hinge arms about the connection points. During movement of the second elongate member relative to the first elongate member between the open and closed positions, the slider may translate along a part of the length of the first elongate member. Movement of the slider may be guided by providing one or more guide mechanisms. The slider may be lipped or otherwise shaped to fit within the preferred U-shaped or C-shaped cross-sectional shape of the first elongate member. An edge channel may be provided on opposite side edges of the slider to receive a sidewall edge portion of a preferably shaped cross-sectional shape of the first elongate member. The slider may be formed from or provided with portions of, a low friction material so that friction during sliding movement is reduced or minimised. The main connector stay may be stepped to accommodate the first hinge arm when in the closed position. The second hinge arm may be stepped to account for any step in the main connector stay. Although not always the case, the first hinge arm may be longer than the second hinge arm. A first hook configuration is preferably mounted relative to the first elongate member, the first hook configuration having shank portion and free end separated from the shank portion by a gap. As mentioned above, the first hook configuration may be mounted relative to the first elongate member about an end cap. The first hook configuration may include a mounting portion to facilitate attachment of the first hook configuration to a portion of the window surround frame. A hook portion may be provided with the shank portion and free end separated from the shank portion by the gap. The shank portion may be attached to or formed with a part of the mounting portion. Preferably, the first hook configuration will be unitary, formed from a single piece of material or from a single blank, which is folded and / or bent to shape. The mounting portion may be L-shaped, with a main part from which the hook portion extends and a return part provided at an angle, preferably approximately 90° to the main part. The main part may be larger than the return part. The main part may be attached to the window surround frame. The return part of the first hook configuration may be attached to or relative to the second end (upper end (if top mounted) or outer end (if side mounted)) of the first elongate member. At least one attachment opening may be provided in each of the main part and the return part. More than one attachment opening may be provided in the main part. Provision of at least one attachment opening in both the mounting part and the return part will strengthen the attachment. A part of the main part and / or the return part of the mounting portion may be received in a portion of the end cap as discussed above. The hook portion of the first hook configuration may extend on the same side of the main portion as the return part of the mounting portion. The hook portion of the first hook configuration may extend downwardly (if top mounted) or inwardly toward centre of the window (if side mounted). The shank portion of the hook portion of the first hook configuration is preferably small compared to the dimension of the gap between the free end of the hook portion and the shank portion, but this may be determined by the clearance between the sash and the window surround frame. The hook portion may be substantially C-shaped. The hook portion may be elongate, extending over at least a portion of the length of the main part of the mounting portion. The hook portion may have the appearance of an arcuate tube part. A second hook configuration may be mounted relative to the second elongate member, the second hook configuration having shank portion and free end separated from the shank portion by a gap. The second hook configuration may be mounted relative to the upper end (if top mounted) or outer end (if side mounted) of the second elongate member. The second hook configuration may be mounted on an opposite to the side of the second elongate member to the side to which the main connector stay and the first and second hinge arms are attached. The second hook configuration may include a mounting portion to facilitate attachment of the second hook configuration to the second elongate member. A hook portion may be provided with the shank portion and free end separated from the shank portion by the gap. The hook portion of the second hook configuration preferably faces outwardly, away from the centre of the window. The hook portion of the second hook configuration preferably faces the hook portion of the first hook configuration. The shank portion may be attached to or formed with a part of the mounting portion. Preferably, the second hook configuration will be unitary, formed from a single piece of material or from a single blank, which is folded and / or bent to shape. The mounting portion may be L-shaped, with a main part from which the hook portion extends and a return part provided at an angle, preferably approximately 90° to the main part. The main part and the return part of the second hook configuration may be approximately the same length. The main part of the second hook assembly may be attached to the window sash. The return part of the second hook configuration may be attached to or relative to the second end (upper end (if top mounted) or outer end (if side mounted)) of the second elongate member. At least one attachment opening may be provided in each of the main part and the return part. More than one attachment opening may be provided in each part. Any attachment opening provided in the return part of the second hook configuration may be elongate to provide a degree of adjustment in the attachment position. Provision of at least one attachment opening in both the mounting part and the return part will strengthen the attachment. One or more of the at least one attachment openings in each of the main part and / or the return part may be elongate openings to provide a degree of adjustability in the position of the second hook assembly relative to the window sash and / or the surround frame. The hook portion of the second hook configuration may extend on the opposite side of the main portion to the return part of the mounting portion. The hook portion of the second hook configuration may extend upwardly (if top mounted) or outwardly away from centre of the window (if side mounted). The shank portion of the hook portion of the second hook configuration is preferably small compared to the dimension of the gap between the free end of the hook portion and the shank portion, but this may be determined by the clearance between the sash and the window surround frame. The hook portion may be substantially C-shaped. The hook portion may be elongate, extending over at least a portion of the length of the main part of the mounting portion. The hook portion may have the appearance of an arcuate tube part. The first hook configuration and second hook configuration are movable into a first, closed position in which the free end of the first hook configuration is positioned aligned with the gap of the second hook configuration and the free end of the second hook configuration is positioned aligned with the gap of the first hook configuration and a second, open position when the first elongate member and second elongate member are not aligned with one another. With the casement window sash completely closed, the opposing first and second hook portions will preferably sit within clearance between the outer side of the window sash and an inner side of the window surround frame. The opposing hook portions will preferably sit in clearance of each other until an applied load causes movement of the window sash and the opposing hooks engage to protect the hinge. The opposing first and second hook portions will preferably be ‘in clearance’ when friction stay assembly is closed, positioning the free end of the first hook configuration aligned with the gap of the second hook configuration and the free end of the second hook configuration is positioned aligned with the gap of the first hook configuration. The opposing first and second hook portions may be spaced apart with the respective free ends not located within the corresponding gap on the other of the hook portions. However, the combination of sliding movement and pivoting movement of the window sash when opened and closed may allow the respective free ends to be located at least partially within the corresponding gap on the other of the hook portions, when the window sash is closed. Movement of the friction stay assembly to the open position (through movement of the second elongate member out of alignment with the first elongate member) will preferably move the second hook configuration out of the ‘in clearance’ position through a combination of rotation and sliding movement of the upper end (if top mounted) or outer end (if side mounted) of the second elongate member, due to the hinge assembly provided. As discussed above, mounting the hinge protection components in the form of the first hook configuration and the second hook configuration to the friction stay assembly (rather than to the window surround frame and the window sash directly) simplifies construction and improves the consistency of the fitment of the hinge protection devices to windows having different profiles. Detailed Description of the Invention In order that the invention may be more clearly understood one or more embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which: Figure 1 is an axonometric view of a friction stay assembly with integrated hinge protection in the open condition. Figure 1A is an axonometric view of the first hook component of the friction stay assembly as illustrated in Figure 1, removed from the assembly. Figure 2 is an axonometric view of a friction stay assembly as illustrated in Figure 1 in the closed condition. Figure 3 is an axonometric view of a friction stay assembly as illustrated in Figure 1 from the opposite side. Figure 4 is a side view of the configuration illustrated in Figure 1. Figure 5 is a side view of the configuration illustrated in Figure 2. Figure 6 is a side elevation view of a window with a friction stay assembly with integrated hinge protection, in the open condition. Figure 7 is a detailed view of the upper part of the configuration illustrated in Figure 6. Figure 8 is a side elevation view of a window with a friction stay assembly with integrated hinge protection, in the closed condition. Figure 9 is a detailed view of the upper part of the configuration illustrated in Figure 8. Figure 10 is an axonometric view of the configuration illustrated in Figure 7. Figure 11 is a detailed view of the comer part of the configuration illustrated in Figure 10. A preferred embodiment of a friction stay assembly 10 with integrated hinge protection is illustrated in Figures 1 to 5. The friction stay assembly 10 illustrated in Figures 1 to 5 comprises a first elongate member 11, a second elongate member or vent arm 12 hinged to the first elongate member 11 relative to a fixed point 13 at a first end of the first elongate member 11 and movably relative to a second end of the first elongate member 11 via a hinge arm assembly. The integrated hinge protection comprises a first hook configuration 14 mounted relative to the first elongate member 11 and a second hook configuration 15 mounted relative to the vent arm 12. The first hook configuration 14 has a shank portion and free end separated from the shank portion by a gap and the second hook configuration 15 also has a shank portion and free end separated from the shank portion by a gap. In use, the first hook configuration 14 and second hook configuration 15 are movable between a first, closed position shown in Figures 2 and 5, in which the free end of the first hook configuration 14 is positioned aligned with the gap of the second hook configuration 15 and the free end of the second hook configuration 15 is positioned aligned with the gap of the first hook configuration 14 and a second, open position illustrated in Figures 1, 3 and 4 when the first elongate member 11 and second elongate member 12 are not aligned with one another. The friction stay assembly 10 of the illustrated embodiment integrates the hinge protection in the form of the first hook configuration 14 and second hook configuration 15, with the first member 11 and vent arm 12 of the friction stay assembly. The friction stay assembly 10 will preferably be used in relation to a casement window with a moveable window sash 16 which is hinged within a window surround frame 17 as shown in Figures 6 to 11. The window sash 16 may pivot between an open position shown in Figures 6, 7 10 and 11 and a closed position shown in Figures 8 and 9. The movement of the window sash 16 between the closed and open position and vice versa may have elements of sliding movement but is primarily a pivot movement. The window sash 16 may be mounted to the window surround frame 17 using a pair of friction stay assemblies 10, on opposite side edges of the window sash 16. The window sash 16 may be mounted to the window surround frame 17 with the friction stay assemblies 10 at the top and bottom of the sash 16 to pivot substantially horizontally (call side mounted), or the window sash 16 may be mounted to the window surround frame 17 with the friction stay assemblies 10 on opposed lateral sides of the sash 16 to pivot substantially vertically (called top mounted). The friction stay assembly 10 may be manufactured of metal components. The friction stay assembly 10 may be manufactured separately from the window surround frame 17 and the moveable window sash (usually glass located in a surround sash frame). In a preferred form, the first elongate member 11 may be mounted relative to the window surround frame 17 as best shown in Figure 6. The first elongate member 11 may be planar. The first elongate member may have a C-shaped cross-sectional shape as shown, with a channel within which a slider 18 is positioned and to which one end of the hinge components are attached, as will be explained further below. The first elongate member 11 has a number of attachment openings 19 formed therethrough to allow the first elongate member 11 to be mounted relative to the window surround frame 17 using screws as shown in Figure 6. An upper part (if top mounted) or outer part (if side mounted) of the first elongate member 11 mounts the first hook configuration 14. The first elongate member of some friction stay assemblies may be provided with an end cap 20, particularly at an upper (or outer) end. The end cap 20 may be provided to enhance weather sealing and draught proofing performance. The end cap 20 may be provided at the upper (or outer) end of the first elongate member 11. The end cap 20 may be formed of a plastic material such as nylon for example. Attachment of the first hook configuration 14 to the first elongate member 11 will preferably be such that the friction stay assembly is mounted to allow use of an end cap 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the end cap 20 is provided with a channel depression or rebate (shown filled with a part of the first hook configuration in Figure 3), in one or more outer sides thereof, into which a respective portion of the first hook configuration 14 is received. The first hook configuration 14 will preferably form a flush fit with an external portion of the end cap 20. The first end of the first elongate member 11 may preferably be the end of the first elongate member 11 opposite to the end relative to which the first hook configuration 14 is attached, or the end opposite to the end attached to the window surround frame 17, preferably a lower end (if top mounted) or inner end (if side mounted) of the first elongate member 11. The second end of the first elongate member 11 is preferably the end of the first elongate member 11 located at the window surround frame 17 end of the first elongate member 11, preferably an upper end (if top mounted) or outer end (if side mounted) of the first elongate member 11. As shown, the second elongate member or vent arm 12 is preferably planar. The vent arm 12 may has a number of attachment openings 21 formed therethrough to allow the vent arm 12 to be mounted relative to the sash 16. One or more of the attachment openings 21 may be elongate openings to provide a degree of adjustment. As shown, an upper end (if top mounted) or outer end (if side mounted) of the vent arm 12 is angled or asymmetrical to correspond to an internal shape of the end cap 20 provided at the upper end (if top mounted) or outer end (if side mounted) of the first elongate member 11. The second hook configuration 15 is mounted relative to an upper end (if top mounted) or outer end (if side mounted) of the vent arm 12. The vent arm 12 is hinged to the first elongate member 11 relative to a fixed point 13 at a lower or inner end of the first elongate member 11 and movably relative to the upper end (if top mounted) or outer end (if side mounted) of the first elongate member 11 using a hinge mechanism. The hinge mechanism illustrated in Figures 1 to 5 includes a main connector stay 22 connecting the first elongate member 11 to the vent arm 12. As shown, the main connector stay 22 connects at a first end thereof to the first elongate member 11 at the fixed point 13 close to the lower or inner end of the first elongate member 11. The fixed point 13 connection is fixed in position, but is a pivot point allowing rotation of the main connector stay 22. A second end of the main connector stay 22 connects to the vent arm 12 at a point between the ends of the vent arm 12. The connection of the second end of the main connector stay 22 is also fixed in position, but about a pivot point allowing rotation of the main connector stay 22. The connection of the second end of the main connector stay 22 may be approximately central along the length of the vent arm 12 as shown in Figure 1. In the illustrated hinge mechanism, a pair of hinge arms are provided. A first hinge arm 23 connects to the main connector stay 22 at a first end thereof and to the first elongate member 11 at a second end thereof. The first end of the first hinge arm 23 may connect approximately centrally to the main connector stay 22 (although this position can vary) and to the slider 18 mounted relative to the first elongate member 11 at the second end. A second hinge arm 24 may connect at a first end to an upper end (if top mounted) or outer end (if side mounted) of the vent arm 12 and at a second end to the slider 18 mounted relative to the first elongate member 11. The respective second ends of the first hinge arm 23 and the second hinge arm 24 are attached to the slider 18 adjacent to one another. The connections at both ends of both hinge arms 23, 24 are preferably fixed in position, but about a pivot point allowing rotation of both hinge arms 23, 24 about the connection points. During movement of the vent arm 12 relative to the first elongate member 11 between the open and closed positions, the slider 18 translates along a part of the length of the first elongate member 11. Movement of the slider 18 may be guided by providing one or more guide mechanisms. The slider 18 may be lipped or otherwise shaped to fit within the illustrated C-shaped cross-sectional shape of the first elongate member 11. An edge channel (obscured) may be provided on opposite side edges of the slider 18 to receive a sidewall edge portion of a preferably C-shaped cross-sectional shape of the first elongate member 11. The slider 18 of the illustrated embodiment is formed from or provided with portions of, a low friction material so that friction during sliding movement is reduced or minimised. As shown, the main connector stay 22 is stepped to accommodate the first hinge arm 23 when in the closed position. The second hinge arm 24 is also stepped to account for any step in the main connector stay 22. Although not always the case, the first hinge arm 23 is longer than the second hinge arm 24. The first hook configuration 14 is mounted relative to the first elongate member 11 and has a hook portion 25 with a shank portion and free end separated from the shank portion by a gap. The first hook configuration 14 includes a mounting portion to facilitate attachment of the first hook configuration 14 to a portion of the window surround frame 17. The shank portion of the first hook portion 25 is attached to or formed with a part of the mounting portion. Preferably, the first hook configuration 15 is unitary, formed from a single piece of material or from a single blank, which is folded and / or bent to shape. The mounting portion of the first hook configuration 14 shown in the Figures is L-shaped, with a main part 26 from which the hook portion 25 extends and a return part 27 provided at an angle of approximately 90° to the main part 26. The main part 26 is larger than the return part 27. The main part 26 is attached to the window surround frame 17. The return part 27 of the first hook configuration 14 is attached to or relative to the second end (upper end (if top mounted) or outer end (if side mounted)) of the first elongate member 11. At least one attachment opening may be provided in each of the main part 26 and the return part 27. More than one attachment opening may be provided in the main part 26. Provision of at least one attachment opening in both the mounting part 26 and the return part 27 will strengthen the attachment. The hook portion 25 of the first hook configuration 14 extends on the same side of the main portion 26 as the return part 27 of the mounting portion as shown in Figure 1 A. The hook portion 25 of the first hook configuration 14 extends downwardly (if top mounted) or inwardly toward centre of the window (if side mounted). The shank portion of the hook portion 25 of the first hook configuration 14 is preferably small compared to the dimension of the gap between the free end of the hook portion 25 and the shank portion, but this may be determined by the clearance between the sash 16 and the window surround frame 17. The hook portion 25 may be substantially C-shaped as shown. The hook portion 25 illustrated is elongate, extending over at least a portion of the length of the main part 26 of the mounting portion. The hook portion 25 may have the appearance of an arcuate tube part. A second hook configuration 15 is mounted relative to the vent arm 12. The second hook configuration 15 has a second hook 28 with a shank portion and free end separated from the shank portion by a gap. The second hook configuration 15 is mounted relative to the upper end (if top mounted) or outer end (if side mounted) of the vent arm 12. The second hook configuration 15 may be mounted on an opposite side of the vent arm 12 to the side of the vent arm 12 to which the main connector stay 22 and the first hinge arm 23 and second hinge arm 24 is attached. As illustrated, the second hook configuration 15 includes a mounting portion to facilitate attachment of the second hook configuration 15 to the vent arm 12. The second hook portion 28 is provided with a shank portion and free end separated from the shank portion by the gap. The hook portion 28 of the second hook configuration 15 preferably faces outwardly, away from the centre of the window, facing the hook portion 25 of the first hook configuration 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the shank portion is attached to or formed with a part of the mounting portion. Preferably, the second hook configuration 15 is unitary, formed from a single piece of material or from a single blank, which is folded and / or bent to shape. The mounting portion of the illustrated embodiment is L-shaped, with a main part 29 from which the hook portion 28 extends and a return part 30 provided at an angle of approximately 90° to the main part 29. The main part 29 and the return part 30 of the second hook configuration 15 are approximately the same length. The main part 29 of the second hook configuration 15 is attached to the window sash 16. The return part 30 of the second hook configuration 15 is attached to or relative to the second end (upper end (if top mounted) or outer end (if side mounted)) of the vent arm 12. At least one attachment opening is provided in each of the main part 29 and the return part 30. More than one attachment opening may be provided in each part. Any attachment opening provided in the return part 30 of the second hook configuration 15 may be elongate to provide a degree of adjustment in the attachment position. Provision of at least one attachment opening in both the main part 29 and the return part 30 will strengthen the attachment. As shown in Figure 1, the attachment openings 60 in the main part 29 are elongate openings to provide a degree of adjustability in the position of the second hook assembly relative to the window sash and / or the surround frame. The upper or outer attachment opening 60 is longer than the lower or inner attachment opening 60. The hook portion of the second hook configuration 15 extends on the opposite side of the main part 29 to the return part 30 of the mounting portion. The hook portion 28 of the second hook configuration 15 extends upwardly (if top mounted) or outwardly away from centre of the window (if side mounted). The shank portion of the hook portion 28 of the second hook configuration 15 is preferably small compared to the dimension of the gap between the free end of the hook portion 28 and the shank portion, but this may be determined by the clearance between the sash 16 and the window surround frame 17. The second hook portion 28 may be substantially C-shaped. The hook portion 28 may be elongate, extending over at least a portion of the length of the main part 29 of the mounting portion. The hook portion 28 may have the appearance of an arcuate tube part. The first hook configuration 14 and second hook configuration 15 are movable into a first, closed position (when the first elongate member 11 and vent arm 12 are aligned with one another) in which the free end of the first hook configuration 14 is positioned aligned with the gap of the second hook configuration 15 and the free end of the second hook configuration 15 is positioned aligned with the gap of the first hook configuration 14, (shown in Figures 2 and 5) and a second, open position when the first elongate member 11 and vent arm 12 are not aligned with one another (shown in Figures 1, 3 and 4). With the casement window sash completely closed as shown in Figures 8 and 9, the opposing first 25 and second hook portions 28 will preferably sit within clearance between the outer side of the window sash 16 and an inner side of the window surround frame 17. The opposing hook portions 25, 28 will preferably sit in clearance of each other until an applied load causes movement of the window sash 16 and the opposing hooks 25, 28 engage to protect the hinge (not shown). The opposing first 25 and second hook portions 28 will preferably be ‘in clearance’ when friction stay assembly 10 is closed, positioning the free end of the first hook configuration 14 aligned with the gap of the second hook configuration 15 and the free end of the second hook configuration 15 is positioned aligned with the gap of the first hook configuration 15. The opposing first 25 and second hook portions 28 may be spaced apart with the respective free ends not located within the corresponding gap on the other of the hook portions. However, the combination of sliding movement and pivoting movement of the window sash 16 when opened and closed may allow the respective free ends to be located at least partially within the corresponding gap on the other of the hook portions, when the window sash 16 is closed. 5 Movement of the friction stay assembly 10 to the open position (through movement of the vent arm 12 out of alignment with the first elongate member 11) will preferably move the second hook configuration 15 out of the ‘in clearance’ position through a combination of rotation and sliding movement of the upper end (if top mounted) or outer end (if side mounted) of the vent arm 12, due to the hinge assembly 10 provided. The one or more embodiments are described above by way of example only. Many variations are possible without departing from the scope of protection afforded by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A friction stay assembly with integrated hinge protection, the friction stay assembly comprising:a. a first elongate member;b. a second elongate member hinged to the first elongate member relative to a fixed point at a first end of the first elongate member and movably relative to a second end of the first elongate member;c. a first hook configuration mounted relative to the first elongate member, the first hook configuration having shank portion and free end separated from the shank portion by a gap andd. a second hook configuration mounted relative to the second elongate member, the second hook configuration having shank portion and free end separated from the shank portion by a gap;the first hook configuration and second hook configuration movable into a first, closed position in which the free end of the first hook configuration is positioned aligned with the gap of the second hook configuration and the free end of the second hook configuration is positioned aligned with the gap of the first hook configuration and a second, open position when the first elongate member and second elongate member are not aligned with one another.

2. A friction stay assembly as claimed in claim 1 wherein the first elongate member has a U-shaped or C-shaped cross-sectional shape.

3. A friction stay assembly as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2 wherein an upper part (if top mounted) or outer part (if side mounted) of the first elongate member mounts the first hook configuration.

4. A friction stay assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the first elongate member is provided with an end cap at an upper part (if top mounted) or outer part (if side mounted), the end cap provided with a channel, depression or rebate in one or more outer sides thereof, into which a respective portion of the first hook configuration is received.

5. A friction stay assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the second hook configuration is mounted relative to an upper end (if top mounted) or outer end (if side mounted) of the second elongate member.

6. A friction stay assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein a hinge mechanism comprising one or more members is provided between the first elongate member and the second elongate member.

7. A friction stay assembly as claimed in claim 6 wherein the hinge mechanism comprises a main connector stay connecting the first elongate member to the second elongate member, a first end of the main connector stay connected at or close to the first end of the first elongate member via a connection fixed in position, but about a pivot point allowing rotation of the main connector stay and a second end of the main connector stay connected to the second elongate member at a point between the ends of the second elongate member via a connection fixed in position, but about a pivot point allowing rotation of the main connector stay and a pair of hinge arms may be provided, a first hinge arm connected to the main connector stay at a first end thereof and to a slider mounted relative to the first elongate member at a second end thereof and a second hinge arm connected at a first end to an upper end (if top mounted) or outer end (if side mounted) of the second elongate member and at a second end to the slider.

8. A friction stay assembly as claimed in claim 7 wherein the slider is formed from or provided with portions of, a low friction material so that friction during sliding movement is reduced or minimised.

9. A friction stay assembly as claimed in claim 6 or claim 7 wherein the main connector stay is stepped to accommodate the first hinge arm when in the closed position and the second hinge arm is stepped to account for any step in the main connector stay.

10. A friction stay assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the first hook configuration comprises a mounting portion to facilitate attachment of the first hook configuration to a portion of the window surround frame and to the first elongate member and a hook portion is provided with the shank portion and free end separated from the shank portion by the gap.

11. A friction stay assembly as claimed in claim 10 wherein the first hook configuration is unitary, formed from a single piece of material or from a single blank, folded and / or bent to shape.

12. A friction stay assembly as claimed in claim 10 or claim 11 wherein the mounting portion is L-shaped, with a main part from which the hook portion extends and a return part provided at an angle to the main part, the main part configured to be attached to the window surround frame and the return part configured to be attached to or relative to the first elongate member.

13. A friction stay assembly as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 12 wherein the hook portion of the first hook configuration extends on the same side of the main portion as the return part of the mounting portion of the first hook configuration.

14. A friction stay assembly as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 13 wherein at least one attachment opening is provided in both the main part and the return part.

15. A friction stay assembly as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 14 wherein the hook portion of the first hook configuration is substantially C-shaped and elongate.

16. A friction stay assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the second hook configuration comprises a mounting portion to facilitate attachment of the second hook configuration to a portion of the window sash and the second elongate member and a hook portion is provided with the shank portion and free end separated from the shank portion by the gap.

17. A friction stay assembly as claimed in claim 16 wherein the second hook configuration is unitary, formed from a single piece of material or from a single blank, which is folded and / or bent to shape.

18. A friction stay assembly as claimed in claim 16 or claim 17 wherein the mounting portion is L-shaped, with a main part from which the hook portion extends and a return part provided at an angle to the main part, the main part of the second hook assembly configured to be attached to the window sash and the return part of the second hook configuration configured to be attached to or relative to the second elongate member.

19. A friction stay assembly as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 18 wherein the hook portion of the second hook configuration extends on an opposite side if the main portion to the return pail of the mounting portion of the second hook configuration.

20. A friction stay assembly as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 19 wherein at least one attachment opening is provided in each of the main part and the return part of the second hook configuration.

21. A friction stay assembly as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 20 wherein the hook portion of the second hook configuration is substantially C-shaped and elongate.

22. A friction stay assembly as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 21 when dependent on any one of claims 10 to 15 wherein the hook portion of the second hook configuration faces the hook portion of the first hook configuration.

23. A friction stay assembly as claimed in claim 22 wherein the first hook portion and second hook portion sit in clearance of each other when aligned until an applied load causes movement of the window sash and the opposing hooks engage to protect the hinge.

24. A friction stay assembly as claimed in claim 22 wherein a free end of the first hook portion is located at least partially within the gap of the second hook portion and a free end of the second hook portion is located at least partially within the gap of the first hook portion when aligned.

25. A casement window system comprising a window sash mounted within a window surround frame with at least one friction stay assembly with integrated hinge protection as claimed in any one of the preceding claims.

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