Improvements in or relating to engineered non-polymer sash members

Abstract

A multipurpose, engineered non-polymer, sash member 40 is provided for glazed installation in an openable, closable and lockable configuration in a subdivided frame within a building opening. It has

Description

This invention relates to a multipurpose sash member, for glazed installation in an openable, closable and lockable configuration in a subdivided frame within a building opening, a frame member for glazed installation within a building opening, and to a glazed assembly including a plurality of such frame members and at least one multipurpose sash member. Openings within a building can be occluded by a glazed installation such as a window or door. Typically, such glazed installations, e.g. as shown in Figure 1 in the form of a window 10, include a plurality of frame members 12 with the same cross-sectional profile, that define an outer frame which is fixedly secured within a given opening (not shown), and which holds the various other window (or door) components together. Usually, the frame members 12 form a head 14 at the top of the opening, a pair of jambs 16 at either side, and a sill 18 at the bottom of the opening, although this need not necessarily be the case. In both windows and doors, transom and mullion members 20, 22 subdivide the outer frame, with transom members 20 doing so horizontally while mullion members 22 doing so vertically, such that they are essentially the same as one another. Transom and mullion members 20, 22 similarly have solely to allow for glazing of one or more parts of the subdivided outer frame, and so share many cross-sectional features with the frame members 12. Sash members 24, in contrast, can be configured in a glazed, openable and closable configuration, such as a casement panel 26 or fanlight panel 28 within the subdivided outer frame of a window 10 (or door). Such panels 26, 28 must be lockable too, and so regular sash members facilitate the mounting of various bead subcomponents 30 (to allow for glazing of the panels 26, 28), lock subcomponents 32 (to allow for locking of the panels 26, 28, e.g. in a closed position within the subdivided outer frame), and hinge subcomponents 34 (to allow for movement of the panels 26, 28 between open and closed positions within the outer frame). According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a multipurpose, engineered non-polymer, sash member, for glazed installation in an openable, closable and lockable configuration in a subdivided frame within a building opening, the sash member having a cross-sectional profile with first and second cross-sectional halves lying either side of a laterally extending axis, each cross-sectional half including at a first end thereof a glazing abutment formation and at a second end thereof opposite the first end a first subcomponent retention formation configured to selectively receive and inhibit lateral movement of each one of a bead subcomponent, a lock subcomponent and a hinge subcomponent, and the cross-sectional profile exhibiting either reflectively symmetry or rotational symmetry about the laterally extending axis, whereby the first subcomponent retention formation of the first cross-sectional half is able selectively to receive and inhibit lateral movement of the same bead subcomponent, lock subcomponent and hinge subcomponent as the first subcomponent retention formation of the second cross-sectional half. Forming the multipurpose sash member from an engineered non-polymer helps to ensure that the resulting cross-sectional halves have sufficient structural integrity, and in particular a necessary degree of stiffness, to permit the first subcomponent retention formations therein to achieve, as needed, the required retention of each of the said bead, lock, and hinge subcomponents. Meanwhile, having a first subcomponent retention formation on one cross-sectional half of the sash member that is able, selectively, i.e. individually and when desired, to receive and inhibit lateral movement of exactly the same bead subcomponent, lock subcomponent or hinge subcomponent as the first subcomponent retention formation on the other cross-sectional half of the sash member allows the sash member of the invention to universally function as both: a regular sash member, i.e. by retaining a bead subcomponent in the first subcomponent retention formation of one cross-sectional half (e.g. to secure a glazing panel between the said bead subcomponent and the glazing abutment formation of the said cross-sectional half), and by retaining a lock subcomponent in the first subcomponent retention formation of the other cross-sectional half; and a substitute transom or mullion member to subdivide a frame within a building opening, but which is also able to cooperate with a sash member of the invention functioning as a regular sash member, i.e. by retaining in the first subcomponent retention formation of one cross-sectional half thereof a hinge subcomponent coupled with the regular sash member, to thereby configure the regular sash member as part of an openable, closable and lockable casement or fanlight panel. Such universal functionality, i.e. having an interchangeable first subcomponent retention formation on each cross-sectional half of the sash member which is able to receive and inhibit lateral movement of any one of a bead subcomponent, lock subcomponent and hinge subcomponent, and the associated ability of the single, multipurpose, sash member of the invention to perform multiple functions advantageously allows fabricators of windows and / or doors utilising the multipurpose sash member of the invention to carry considerably less stock, since regular transom and mullion members are no longer needed. Additionally, the provision of a single, multipurpose sash member desirably permits greater utilisation of any given extruded length of sash member since both regular sash member portions, as well as what would have been regular transom and mullion member portions, can be cut from a given extruded length. This, in turn, reduces waste considerably, and thereby improves, i.e. lowers, the overall carbon footprint for any given window or door installation utilising the multipurpose sash member of the invention. A further benefit of the multipurpose sash member of the invention is that associated window and / or door fabrication can be carried out more quickly since machining of the sash member of the invention, e.g. to permit further securing and / or the spatial accommodation of one or more subcomponents, is less time-consuming because there is no need to swap out different machining jigs adapted to regular transom and mullion members of a different shape. Preferably at least one cross-sectional half includes a second subcomponent retention formation lying between the glazing abutment formation and the first subcomponent retention formation, the second subcomponent retention formation being configured to selectively receive and inhibit lateral movement of at least the same hinge subcomponent as the first subcomponent retention formations. The inclusion of at least one such second subcomponent retention formation advantageously additionally permits the sash member of the invention to retain, i.e. receive and inhibit lateral movement of, a hinge subcomponent when functioning as a regular sash member, and thereby desirably assists installers of windows and / or doors utilising the multipurpose sash member of the invention to correctly position such hinge subcomponents on the said sash member when it is functioning as a regular sash member. Optionally each cross-sectional half includes a second subcomponent retention formation lying between the glazing abutment formation and the first subcomponent retention formation, both second subcomponent retention formations being configured to selectively receive and inhibit lateral movement of at least the same hinge subcomponent as the first subcomponent retention formations. Having a second subcomponent retention formation in each cross-sectional half imbues the sash member of the invention with perfect reflective symmetry or rotational symmetry (as the case may be) about the laterally extending axis, with respect to the second subcomponent retention formations. As a consequence, the resulting sash member of the invention advantageously is non-handed, and so provides the same functionality irrespective of its orientation, e.g. irrespective of whether the first cross-sectional half or the second cross-sectional half lies uppermost, in use. This, in turn, reduces the amount of handling required by fabricators of the multipurpose sash member of the invention, since no reorientation is needed, and thereby increases still further the speed of fabrication. Each subcomponent retention formation may take the form of a slot formation having a floor portion and first and second opposed wall portions spaced apart to define a retention opening. The inclusion of such a slot formation desirably provides the required receiving and lateral movement inhibition functionality in a readily manufacturable, and in particular extrudable, manner. In a preferred embodiment of the invention one wall portion tapers outwardly away from the retention opening. Having at least one wall portion taper outwardly away from the retention opening advantageously permits the clipping behind the taper of a complimentary feature, e.g. on a bead, lock or hinge subcomponent, to secure such a subcomponent within the associated slot formation. Preferably at least one wall portion defines an undercut. Providing the or each wall portion with an undercut desirably still further facilitates the securing, temporary or otherwise, of, in particular, a bead subcomponent within the associated slot formation. In another preferred embodiment of the invention each first subcomponent retention formation defines a first retention opening having a first width and the or each second subcomponent retention formation defines a second retention opening having a second width. The slot formation of the second subcomponent retention formation may be different to the slot formation of the first subcomponent retention formation. Such features, and being different in particular, allow the first and second subcomponent retention formations to be tailored to function especially well with different ones of, or parts of, individual bead, lock and hinge subcomponents. Optionally the width of each first retention opening lies in the range 10mm to 20mm, preferably in the range 12mm to 18mm, and more preferably still is 18mm. Such first retention opening widths help to facilitate the use of one or more standardsized bead, lock or hinge subcomponents when installing the sash member of the invention within a glazed frame assembly. The width of the or each second retention opening may lie in the range 10mm to 20mm, preferably in the range 12mm to 16mm, and more preferably still is 16mm. Such second retention opening widths help to facilitate the use of a standard-sized hinge subcomponent when installing the sash member of the invention within a glazed frame assembly. Preferably the slot formation of the second subcomponent retention formation is shallower than the slot formation of the first subcomponent retention formation. The foregoing features are well-suited to receiving a hinge subcomponent in particular and ensuring that lateral movement of such a subcomponent is inhibited as required, while also helping to ensure the hinge subcomponent is able to move between open and closed configurations without fouling on other parts of a glazed frame assembly. In a further preferred embodiment of the invention the engineered non-polymer is or includes one of: a metal or alloy, preferably an aluminium alloy; and a ceramic or glass composite, preferably a fiberglass composite. Engineering materials, i.e. metals and alloys; ceramics and glasses; and polymers are widely used as structural engineering materials, although the inherent flexibility of polymers, such as PVCu, means that they are not stiff enough for many standalone applications. In contrast, metals and alloys, as well as ceramic composites and / or glass composites, i.e. engineered non-polymers, do exhibit a desired degree of stiffness which makes them suitable for glazed installations within building openings, with aluminium and fibreglass composites having particularly desirable structural properties, such as high strength to weight characteristics and resistance to corroding, for use in such installations. According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a complementary frame member, for glazed installation within a building opening, having a complementary cross-sectional half including at a first end thereof a glazing abutment formation and at a second end thereof opposite the first end a first subcomponent retention formation configured to selectively receive and inhibit lateral movement of each one of a bead subcomponent, a lock subcomponent and a hinge subcomponent. According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a frame assembly, for glazed installation within a building opening, including a plurality of complementary frame members as described hereinabove, and at least one sash member as described hereinabove. The complementary frame member and frame assembly of the invention share the benefits of the corresponding features of the multipurpose sash member of the invention. It will be appreciated that the use of the terms "first" and "second", and the like, in this patent specification is merely intended to help distinguish between similar features and is not intended to indicate the relative importance of one feature over another feature, unless otherwise specified. Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, and the claims and / or the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and all features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and / or combination, unless such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim orfile any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and / or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner. There now follows a brief description of preferred embodiments of the invention, by way of non-limiting examples, with reference being made to the following figures in which: Figure 1 shows a conventional window assembly for installation within a building opening; Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a multipurpose sash member according to a first embodiment of the invention; Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a multipurpose sash member according to a second embodiment of the invention; Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of a complementary frame member according to a third embodiment of the invention; Figure 5(a) shows a schematic, cross-sectional view of a pair of first sash members shown in Figure 2 in a first frame assembly according to a fourth embodiment of the invention; Figure 5(b) shows a schematic, cross-sectional view of the first sash member shown in Figure 2 with the complementary frame member shown in Figure 4 in a second frame assembly according to a fifth embodiment of the invention; Figure 5(c) shows a schematic, cross-sectional view of the first sash member shown in Figure 2 in a third frame assembly according to a sixth embodiment of the invention; Figure 6(a) shows a schematic, cross-sectional view of a pair of second sash members shown in Figure 3 in a fourth frame assembly according to a seventh embodiment of the invention; Figure 6(b) shows a schematic, cross-sectional view of the second sash member shown in Figure 3 with the complementary frame member shown in Figure 4 in a fifth frame assembly according to an eighth embodiment of the invention; and Figure 6(c) shows a schematic, cross-sectional view of the second sash member shown in Figure 3 in a sixth frame assembly according to a ninth embodiment of the invention. A multipurpose, engineered non-polymer, e.g. metal (and more particularly, aluminium), sash member according to a first embodiment of the invention is designated generally by reference numeral 40, as shown in Figure 2. The elongate sash member 40 has a first cross-sectional profile 42 with first and second cross-sectional halves 44, 46 that lie either side of a laterally extending axis Ai_ATwhich, in the embodiment shown, extends centrally through the cross-sectional profile, although this need not necessarily be the case in other embodiments. Each cross-sectional half 44, 46 includes a glazing abutment formation 48 at a first end 50 thereof, and a first subcomponent retention formation 52 at a second end 54 thereof, which is opposite the first end 50. Each glazing abutment formation 48 is configured, in use, to facilitate the abutment and securing of a glazing panel 56 (a portion of which is shown schematically in Figure 2) thereagainst, with or without the assistance of a glazing bead (not shown) interposed between the glazing abutment formation 48 and the glazing panel 56. Meanwhile, each first subcomponent retention formation 52 is configured to selectively, i.e. one at a time and as needed, receive and inhibit lateral movement, i.e. inhibit movement in either direction along the laterally extending axis Alat, of each one of a bead subcomponent 30, a lock subcomponent 32, and a hinge subcomponent 34, as will be described in more detail below. In other words, each first subcomponent retention formation 52 is able to retain, i.e. receive and inhibit lateral movement of, whichever of the bead subcomponent 30, the lock subcomponent 32, or the hinge subcomponent 34 is needed according to the overall configuration and desired functionality of the sash member 40. The first cross-sectional profile 42 of the first sash member 40 exhibits reflective symmetry about the laterally extending axis Alat, i.e. the first and second cross-sectional halves 44, 46 are mirror images of one another about the laterally extending axis Alat. As a result, the first subcomponent retention formation 52 of the first cross-sectional half 44 is able, in use, to selectively receive and inhibit lateral movement of exactly the same bead subcomponent 30, lock subcomponent 32 and hinge subcomponent 34 as the first subcomponent retention formation 52 of the second cross-sectional half 46. Additionally, each cross-sectional half 44, 46 includes a second subcomponent retention formation 58 that lies between the respective combination of glazing abutment formation 48 and first subcomponent retention formation 52. Both of the second subcomponent retention formations 58 are also configured to selectively receive and inhibit lateral movement of the same hinge subcomponent 34 as the first subcomponent retention formations 52, albeit an opposite portion of the same hinge subcomponent 34. Moreover, in the embodiment shown, the respective second subcomponent retention formations 58 lie in the same position between the glazing abutment formation 48 and first subcomponent retention formation 52 in each cross-sectional half 44, 46, such that the first cross-sectional profile 42 exhibits perfect reflective, i.e. mirror, symmetry about the laterally extending axis Alat. In addition to the foregoing, each subcomponent retention formation 52, 58 takes the form of a slot formation 60 that has a floor portion 62 and first and second opposed wall portions 64, 66 which are spaced apart to define a retention opening 68', 68". One wall portion in each slot formation 60 tapers outwardly away from the retention opening 68, i.e. one wall portion in each slot formation additionally defines a tapered wall portion 70, which permits the clipping behind the taper of a complimentary feature (not shown) on each of the bead, lock and hinge subcomponents 30, 32, 34, to help selectively secure each such subcomponent 30, 32, 34 within a given slot formation 60. Additionally, as shown, each wall portion 64, 66 in the slot formation 60 of each first subcomponent retention formation 52 defines an undercut 72, while only the first wall portion 64 in the slot formation 60 of each second subcomponent retention formation 58 defines an undercut 72. In each instance the undercut 72 still further facilitates the securing, temporary or otherwise, of the bead subcomponent 30 within the associated slot formation 60. Notwithstanding the above, each of the first subcomponent retention formations 52 defines a first retention opening 68' which has a first width, while each second subcomponent retention formation 58 defines a second retention opening 68" which has a second width. More particularly, in the embodiment shown each first retention opening 68' has a width of 18mm. This is advantageous since industry standard hinge subcomponents 34 have a first portion with a width of 18mm, while an industry standard lock subcomponent 32 can be made wider to fit tightly within an 18mm wide first retention opening 68', and the shape and configuration of a bead subcomponent 30 can readily be changed to fit correctly into an 18mm wide first retention opening 68. Additionally in the embodiment shown, each second retention opening 68" has a width of 16mm, which desirably matches the width of a second, opposite portion of industry standard hinge subcomponents 32. In other embodiments of the invention, however, the width of each first retention opening, while all being the same, may instead lie in the range 10mm to 20mm, or more preferably in the range 12mm to 18mm, while the width of each second retention opening, while also all being the same, may instead lie in the range 10mm to 20mm, or more preferably in the range 12mm to 16mm. Returning to the embodiment shown, in addition to the difference set out above, the slot formation 60 of the second subcomponent retention formation 58 is also different to the slot formation 60 of the first subcomponent retention formation 52 in that the slot formation 60 of the second subcomponent retention formation 58 is shallower than the slot formation 60 of the first subcomponent retention formation 52. This is so as to be best suited to retaining, i.e. receiving and inhibiting lateral movement of, a hinge subcomponent 34, as is described in more detail below in connection with use of the first sash member 40. A second multipurpose, elongate, and again aluminium, sash member according to a second embodiment to the invention is designated by reference numeral 80, as shown in Figure 3. While the second sash member 80 may be made from, or include, an engineered nonpolymer other than aluminium (as may the first sash member 40), the second sash member 80 nonetheless shares a number of features with the first sash member 40, and these like features are designated by the same reference numerals. The second sash member 80 does, however, have a second cross-sectional profile 82 which differs from the first cross-sectional profile of the first sash member 40. That said, the second cross-sectional profile 82 of the second sash member 80 nevertheless similarly has first and second cross-sectional halves 44, 46 that again lie either side of a laterally extending axis Alat which extends centrally through the second cross-sectional profile 82, although in further embodiments this need not necessarily be the case. Each cross-sectional half 44, 46 again includes a glazing abutment formation 48 at a first end 50 thereof, and a first subcomponent retention formation 52 at a second end 54 thereof, which is opposite the first end 50. Each glazing abutment formation 48 is again configured, in use, to facilitate the abutment and securing of a glazing panel 56 thereagainst, and each first subcomponent retention formation 52 is configured to selectively receive and inhibit lateral movement of each one of a bead, a lock and a hinge subcomponent 30, 32, 34. In contrast to the first cross-sectional profile 42 of the first sash member 40, the second cross-sectional profile of the second sash member 80 instead exhibits rotational symmetry about the laterally extending axis Alat, i.e. the first and second cross-sectional halves 44, 46 have rotational symmetry of Order 2 when rotated around a longitudinally extending axis Alon that extends through the centre of the second cross-sectional profile 82 and perpendicularly to the laterally extending axis Alat. As a result, the first subcomponent retention formation 52 of the first cross-sectional half 44 of the second cross-sectional profile 82 is nevertheless again also able, in use, to selectively receive and inhibit lateral movement of exactly the same bead subcomponent 30, lock subcomponent 32 and hinge subcomponent 34 as the first subcomponent retention formation 52 of the second cross-sectional half 46 of the second cross-sectional profile 82. Additionally, each cross-sectional half 44, 46 of the second cross-sectional profile 82 similarly includes a second subcomponent retention formation 58 that lies between the respective combination of glazing abutment formation 48 and first subcomponent retention formation 52, and both of the second subcomponent retention formations 58 is similarly also configured to selectively receive and inhibit lateral movement of the same hinge subcomponent 34 as the first subcomponent retention formations 52 within the second cross-sectional profile 82, albeit an opposite portion of the said same hinge subcomponent 34. In the second sash member 80 shown, the respective second subcomponent retention formations 58 again lie in the same position between the glazing abutment formation 48 and first subcomponent retention formation 52 in each cross-sectional half 44, 46 of the second cross-sectional profile 82, such that the second cross-sectional profile 82 exhibits perfect rotational symmetry about the laterally extending axis Alat, i.e. when rotated around the longitudinally extending axis Alon. The subcomponent retention formations 52, 58 in the second cross-sectional profile similarly again take the form of a slot formation 60 with a floor portion 62 and first and second opposed wall portions 64, 66 which are again spaced apart to define a retention opening 68. Similarly again, one wall portion in each slot formation 60 additionally defines a tapered wall portion 70, and each wall portion 64, 66 in the slot formation 60 of each first subcomponent retention formation 52 defines an undercut 72, while only the first wall portion 64 in the slot formation 60 of each second subcomponent retention formation 58 defines an undercut 72. The width of each first retention opening 68' in the second cross-sectional profile 80 is the same, and more particularly is again 18mm, and the width of each second retention opening 68" in the second cross-sectional profile is the same, and more particularly is again 16mm, although other ranges of widths and individual widths are again also possible. Meanwhile, in the second cross-sectional profile 82 the slot formation 60 of the second subcomponent retention formation 58 is again also different to the slot formation 60 of the first subcomponent retention formation 52, and more particularly, the slot formation 60 of the second subcomponent retention formation 58 is shallower than the slot formation 60 of the first subcomponent retention formation 52. A complementary frame member according to a third embodiment of the invention is designated generally by reference numeral 90. The frame member 90 is intended to cooperate, i.e. is intended to function in a complementary manner, with each of the first and second sash members 40; 80 when incorporated together in a glazed installation within a building opening. To that end, the frame member 90 has a complementary cross-sectional half 92 which is essentially identical to the first cross-sectional half 44 of the second cross-sectional profile 82 of the second sash member 80 (and is a mirror image about a vertically extending axis Aver of the first cross-sectional half 44 of the first cross-sectional profile 42 of the first sash member 40). Accordingly, the complementary cross-sectional half 92 of the frame member 90 includes at a first end 50 thereof a glazing abutment formation 48 and at a second end 54 thereof a first subcomponent retention formation 52 configured to selectively receive and inhibit lateral movement of each one of a bead, lock and hinge subcomponent 30, 32, 34. In addition, the complementary cross-sectional half 92 includes a second subcomponent retention formation 58 that lies between the glazing abutment formation 48 and the first subcomponent retention formation 52, and more particularly in the embodiment shown, lies in the same position between the glazing abutment formation 48 and first subcomponent retention formation 52 as in each cross-sectional half 44, 46 of the first and second cross-sectional profiles 42; 82 of the first and second sash members 40; 80, respectively. The second subcomponent retention formation 58 of the complementary cross-sectional half 92 is also similarly configured to receive and inhibit lateral movement of the same hinge subcomponent 34 as the first subcomponent retention formation 52, albeit an opposite part of the said same hinge subcomponent 34. Additionally, each subcomponent retention formation 52, 58 in the complementary cross-sectional half 92 of the complementary frame member 90 has exactly the same slot formation 60 as the corresponding first or second subcomponent retention formation 52, 58 in the first and second sash members 40; 80. In use, each of the first and second sash members 40; 80 is for glazed installation in an openable, closable and lockable configuration in a subdivided frame, i.e. inside an outer frame formed by a plurality of complementary frame members 90, within a building opening. More particularly, each of the first and second sash members 40; 80 is able to universally function as both a regular sash member 40; 80, and a substitute transom or mullion member 40'; 80', e.g. as shown in Figures 5(a) to 5(c) and Figures 6(a) to 6(c), and described in more detail below. A schematic, cross-sectional view of a portion of a first frame assembly 100 according to a fourth embodiment of the invention is shown in Figure 5(a). As well as an outer frame (not shown) formed from a plurality of complementary frame members 90, the first frame assembly 100 also includes a pair of first sash members 40, one of which is functioning as a regular first sash member 40, and one of which is functioning as a substitute first transom member 40' (although it may just as readily be functioning as a substitute mullion member) which subdivides the outer frame. As shown, when functioning as a regular first sash member 40 the first subcomponent retention formation 52 on the first cross-sectional half 44 retains a bead subcomponent 30 (illustrated schematically in dashed line) to secure a glazing panel 56 against the corresponding glazing abutment formation 48 of the first cross-sectional half 44. In addition, the first subcomponent retention formation 52 on the second cross-sectional half 46 retains a lock subcomponent 32, while a hinge subcomponent 34 extends between the regular first sash member 40 and the substitute first transom member 40' to facilitate opening and closing of the casement or fanlight panel of which the regular first sash member 40 is a part. More particularly, the hinge subcomponent 34 is retained, i.e. is received and has its lateral movement inhibited, by the second subcomponent retention formation 58 on the second cross-sectional half 46 of the regular first sash member 40, and by the first subcomponent retention formation 52 on the first cross-sectional half 44 of the substitute first transom member 40' (noting that the substitute first transom member 40' is effectively the first regular sash member 40 simply rotated through 180° around the longitudinally extending axis Alon). In this manner, the first sash member 40 of the invention is able to function as both a regular first sash member 40 and a substitute first transom (or mullion) member 40', thus avoiding the need for multiple different component members within a given glazed installation within a building opening. In a similar manner, a schematic, cross-sectional view of a portion of a second frame assembly 110 according to a fifth embodiment of the invention is shown in Figure 5(b). The second frame assembly 110 includes an outer frame formed from a plurality of complementary frame members 90 (only one of which is shown) and a first sash member 40 which, in this embodiment, is functioning solely as a regular first sash member 40. As shown, when functioning as a regular first sash member 40 the first subcomponent retention formation 52 on the first cross-sectional half 44 again retains a bead subcomponent 30 (again illustrated schematically in dashed line) to secure a glazing panel 56 against the corresponding glazing abutment formation 48 of the first cross-sectional half 44, and the first subcomponent retention formation 52 on the second cross-sectional half 46 again retains a lock subcomponent 32. Meanwhile in contrast to the first frame assembly 100, in the second frame assembly 110 a hinge subcomponent 34 instead extends between the regular first sash member 40 and the complementary frame member 90, albeit still to facilitate opening and closing of the casement or fanlight panel of which the regular first sash member 40 is a part. More specifically, the hinge subcomponent 34 is retained by the second subcomponent retention formation 58 on the second cross-sectional half 46 of the regular first sash member 40, and by the first subcomponent retention formation 52 on the complimentary cross-sectional half 92 of the complimentary frame member 90. A schematic, cross-sectional view of a portion of a third frame assembly 120 according to a sixth embodiment of the invention is shown in Figure 5(c). As well as an outer frame (not shown) formed from a plurality of complementary frame members 90, the third frame assembly 100 includes a single first sash member 40 that is functioning solely as a substitute first transom (or mullion) member 40' which subdivides the outer frame. As shown, when functioning as a substitute first transom member 40, the first subcomponent retention formations 52 on each of the first and second cross-sectional halves 44, 46 retains a respective bead subcomponent 30 (illustrated schematically in dashed line) to secure a respective glazing panel 56 against the corresponding glazing abutment formation 48 of the respective first or second cross-sectional half 44, 46. In this manner, the first sash member 40 of the invention functions as a substitute first transom (or mullion) member 40', thus permitting the subdividing and glazing of an outer frame without the need for bespoke and specific transom or mullion members. As mentioned above, in a similar manner the second sash member 80 is able to universally function as both a regular second sash member 80 and a substitute transom (or mullion) member 80'. A schematic, cross-sectional view of a portion of a fourth frame assembly 130 according to a seventh embodiment of the invention, which is similar to the first frame assembly 100, is shown in Figure 6(a). Again, as well as an outer frame (not shown) formed from a plurality of complementary frame members 90, the fourth frame assembly 130 similarly also includes a pair of second sash members 80, one of which is functioning as a regular second sash member 80, and one of which is functioning as a substitute second transom member 80' (although, again, it may just as readily be functioning as a substitute mullion member) which subdivides the outer frame. As shown, when functioning as a regular second sash member 80 the first subcomponent retention formation 52 on the first cross-sectional half 44 retains a bead subcomponent 30 (illustrated schematically in dashed line) to secure a glazing panel 56 against the corresponding glazing abutment formation 48 of the first cross-sectional half 44. In addition, the first subcomponent retention formation 52 on the second cross-sectional half 46 retains a lock subcomponent 32, while a hinge subcomponent 34 extends between the regular second sash member 80 and the substitute second transom member 80' to facilitate opening and closing of the casement or fanlight panel of which the regular first sash member 40 is a part. More particularly, the hinge subcomponent 34 is similarly retained, i.e. is received and has its lateral movement inhibited, by the second subcomponent retention formation 58 on the second cross-sectional half 46 of the regular second sash member 80, and by the first subcomponent retention formation 52 on the first cross-sectional half 44 of the substitute second transom member 80' (noting that the substitute second transom member 80' is effectively the second regular sash member 80 simply translated in space). In this manner, the second sash member 40 of the invention is similarly able to function as both a regular second sash member 80 and a substitute second transom (or mullion) member 80', thus again avoids the need for multiple different component members within a given glazed installation within a building opening. In a similar manner, a schematic, cross-sectional view of a portion of a fifth frame assembly 140 according to an eighth embodiment of the invention, which is similar to the second frame assembly 110, is shown in Figure 6(b). The fifth frame assembly 140 includes an outer frame formed from a plurality of complementary frame members 90 (only one of which is shown) and a second sash member 40 which, in this embodiment, is functioning solely as a regular second sash member 80. As shown, when functioning as a regular second sash member 80 the first subcomponent retention formation 52 on the first cross-sectional half 44 again retains a bead subcomponent 30 (again illustrated schematically in dashed line) to secure a glazing panel 56 against the corresponding glazing abutment formation 48 of the first cross-sectional half 44, and the first subcomponent retention formation 52 on the second cross-sectional half 46 again retains a lock subcomponent 32. Meanwhile a hinge subcomponent 34 again similarly extends between the regular second sash member 80 and the complementary frame member 90, again to facilitate opening and closing of the casement or fanlight panel of which the regular second sash member 80 is a part. The hinge subcomponent 34 is retained by the second subcomponent retention formation 58 on the second cross-sectional half 46 of the regular second sash member 80, and by the first subcomponent retention formation 52 on the complimentary cross-sectional half 92 of the complimentary frame member 90. A schematic, cross-sectional view of a portion of a sixth frame assembly 150 according to a ninth embodiment of the invention, which is similar to the third frame assembly 120, is shown in Figure 6(c). As well as an outer frame (not shown) formed from a plurality of complementary frame members 90, the sixth frame assembly 150 again includes a single second sash member 80 that is functioning solely as a substitute second transom (or mullion) member 80' which subdivides the outer frame. As shown, when functioning as a substitute second transom member 80, the first 5 subcomponent retention formations 52 on each of the first and second cross-sectional halves 44, 46 retains a respective bead subcomponent 30 (illustrated schematically in dashed line) to secure a respective glazing panel 56 against the corresponding glazing abutment formation 48 of the respective first or second cross-sectional half 44, 46.

Claims

1. A multipurpose, engineered non-polymer, sash member, for glazed installation in an openable, closable and lockable configuration in a subdivided frame within a building opening, the sash member having a cross-sectional profile with first and second cross-sectional halves lying either side of a laterally extending axis,each cross-sectional half including at a first end thereof a glazing abutment formation and at a second end thereof opposite the first end a first subcomponent retention formation configured to selectively receive and inhibit lateral movement of each one of a bead subcomponent, a lock subcomponent and a hinge subcomponent, andthe cross-sectional profile exhibiting either reflectively symmetry or rotational symmetry about the laterally extending axis, whereby the first subcomponent retention formation of the first cross-sectional half is able selectively to receive and inhibit lateral movement of the same bead subcomponent, lock subcomponent and hinge subcomponent as the first subcomponent retention formation of the second cross-sectional half.

2. A multipurpose sash member according to Claim 1 wherein at least one cross-sectional half includes a second subcomponent retention formation lying between the glazing abutment formation and the first subcomponent retention formation, the second subcomponent retention formation being configured to selectively receive and inhibit lateral movement of at least the same hinge subcomponent as the first subcomponent retention formations.

3. A multipurpose sash member according to Claim 2 wherein each cross-sectional half includes a second subcomponent retention formation lying between the glazing abutment formation and the first subcomponent retention formation, both second subcomponent retention formations being configured to selectively receive and inhibit lateral movement of at least the same hinge subcomponent as the first subcomponent retention formations.

4. A multipurpose sash member according to any preceding claim wherein each subcomponent retention formation takes the form of a slot formation having a floor portion and first and second opposed wall portions spaced apart to define a retention opening.

5. A multipurpose sash member according to Claim 4 wherein one wall portion tapers outwardly away from the retention opening.

6. A multipurpose sash member according to Claim 4 or Claim 5 wherein at least one wall portion defines an undercut.

7. A multipurpose sash member according to any of Claims 4 to 6 wherein each first subcomponent retention formation defines a first retention opening having a first width and the or each second subcomponent retention formation defines a second retention opening having a second width.

8. A multipurpose sash member according to any of claims 4 to 7 wherein the slot formation of the second subcomponent retention formation is different to the slot formation of the first subcomponent retention formation.

9. A multipurpose sash member according to Claim 7 or Claim 8 wherein the width of each first retention opening lies in the range 10mm to 20mm, preferably in the range 12mm to 18mm, and more preferably still is 18mm.

10. A multipurpose sash member according to any of Claims 7 to 9 wherein the width of the or each second retention opening lies in the range 10mm to 20mm, preferably in the range 12mm to 16mm, and more preferably still is 16mm.

11. A multipurpose sash member according to any of Claims 8 to 10 wherein the slot formation of the second subcomponent retention formation is shallower than the slot formation of the first subcomponent retention formation.

12. A multipurpose sash member according to any preceding claim wherein the engineered non-polymer is or includes one of:a metal or alloy, preferably an aluminium alloy; anda ceramic or glass composite, preferably a fibreglass composite.

13. A complementary frame member, for glazed installation within a building opening, having a complementary cross-sectional half including at a first end thereof a glazing abutment formation and at a second end thereof opposite the first end a first subcomponent retention formation configured to selectively receive and inhibit lateral movement of each one of a bead subcomponent, a lock subcomponent and a hinge subcomponent.

14. A frame assembly, for glazed installation within a building opening, including a plurality of complementary frame members according to Claim 13, and at least one sash member according to any of Claims 1 to 12.5Application No: GB2415318.1 Examiner: Alan JonesClaims searched: 1-12 Date of search: 27 November 2024Patents Act 1977: Search Report under Section 17Documents considered to be relevant:Category Relevant to claims Identity of document and passage or figure of particular relevance X 1-12 IT9022192Al (HYDRO ALUMINIUM SYSTEMS) See e.g. figs 1 &2 X 1-12 DE3903037 Al (OCMA DI CONSTANTINI MARINO) See e.g. figs 1 &2 X 1-12 US4040219 A (BUDICH) See e.g. fig 2, glazing abutment 50, subcomponent retention formation 54, 58 X 1-12 FR1588053 A (PIATTI) See e.g. figs 2 &5 X 1-12 DE2219268 Al (DOERGE) See e.g. fig 9 X 1-12 GB2155087A (GLOSTER PLASTICS) See e.g. fig 2, including reinforcement X 1-12 CH569175 A5 (MILANI RESINE SPA) See e.g. figs 2, 3 &6Categories:X Document indicating lack of novelty or inventive step A Document indicating technological background and / or state of the art. Y Document indicating lack of inventive step if combined with one or more other documents of same category. P Document published on or after the declared priority date but before the filing date of this invention. & Member of the same patent family E Patent document published on or after, but with priority date earlier than, the filing date of this application.Field of Search:Search of GB, EP, WO &US patent documents classified in the following areas of the UKCX :The following online and other databases have been used in the preparation of this search reportSEARCH-PATENTInternational Classification:Subclass Subgroup Valid From E06B 0003 / 54 01 / 01 / 2006 E06B 0003 / 66 01 / 01 / 2006

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