Security screen system and assembly method
The security screen system employs sawtooth and hook fasteners for automated assembly, addressing the labor-intensive manufacturing of current systems by ensuring faster, cheaper, and more secure screen production.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- MESHTEC INT
- Filing Date
- 2024-07-12
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-23
AI Technical Summary
Current security screen systems are labor-intensive and time-consuming to manufacture, requiring manual assembly that increases costs and time, and there is a need for a system that can be assembled using automated or semi-automated processes while meeting security standards.
A security screen system utilizing fasteners with sawtooth and hook designs for the outer and inner sashes, along with an insulator, that allows for automated or semi-automated assembly, ensuring secure fixation and meeting security standards.
The system enables faster, cheaper, and easier assembly of security screens through automated processes, enhancing security and reducing labor intensity while maintaining structural integrity.
Smart Images
Figure 2026524668000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications
[0001] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 528,233, filed on July 21, 2023, and U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 639,086, filed on April 26, 2024, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
[0002] Field
[0002] This application relates to a security screen system, and more particularly, to a security screen system that includes a mesh and / or other infill fixed within a frame.
Background Art
[0003] Background
[0003] Security screen systems are available for doors and windows. These systems generally involve fixing a mesh or other infill material within a frame by using certain fasteners. An inherent problem in security screens relates to fixing, retaining, or fastening the mesh or other infill to a door or window frame with a fixing system that is strong and safe enough to meet or exceed current standards. Current fasteners typically include variations on the theme of screws, rivets, wedges, tapes, glues, or combinations thereof for fixing the infill within the frame.
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0004]
[0004] However, a common challenge with these security screen systems is that they are time-consuming and labor-intensive to manufacture. They typically require manual construction for a large part of the assembly process, which increases both manufacturing time and cost. Therefore, there is a need for a security screen system that uses fasteners that allow the security screen to be manufactured and assembled by an automated or at least semi-automated process. There is a need for a security screen system that is cheaper, faster, and easier to assemble than current systems. [Means for solving the problem]
[0005]
[0005] Therefore, it is desirable to have a security screen system that satisfies at least two objectives. First, it should provide a secure fixed placement that meets or exceeds current standards. Second, it is preferable to use fasteners that enable the security screen to be manufactured and assembled by an automated or semi-automated process. In other words, it is desirable to develop a security system that meets or exceeds current standards, is manufactured and assembled by an automated or semi-automated process, and reduces the labor-intensive nature of the assembly. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0006] Brief explanation of the drawing [Figure 1]
[0006] This figure shows a screen system including mesh (and / or other infill) and frame. [Figure 2A]
[0007] A diagram of the assembled first frame assembly, connecting the mesh (and / or other infill) to the frame, is shown. [Figure 2B]
[0008] Figure 2A shows a side view of the outer sash of the first frame assembly. [Figure 2C]
[0009] Figure 2A shows a side view of the inner sash of the first frame assembly. [Figure 2D]
[0010] Figure 2A shows a side view of the insulator of the first frame assembly. [Figure 3A]
[0011] The diagram shows the assembled second frame assembly, connecting the mesh (and / or other infill) to the frame. [Figure 3B]
[0012] Figure 3A shows a side view of the outer sash of the second frame assembly. [Figure 3C]
[0013] Figure 3A shows a side view of the inner sash of the second frame assembly. [Figure 3D]
[0014] Figure 3A shows a side view of the insulator of the second frame assembly. [Figure 4A]
[0015] The diagram shows an assembled third frame assembly connecting the mesh (and / or other infill) to the frame. [Figure 4B]
[0016] Figure 4A shows a side view of the outer sash of the third frame assembly. [Figure 4C]
[0017] Figure 4A shows a side view of the inner sash of the third frame assembly. [Figure 4D]
[0018] Figure 4A shows a side view of the insulator of the third frame assembly. [Figure 5A]
[0019] The diagram shows the assembled fourth frame assembly, which connects the mesh (and / or other infill) to the frame. [Figure 5B]
[0020] Figure 5A shows a side view of the outer sash of the fourth frame assembly. [Figure 5C]
[0021] Figure 5A shows a side view of the inner sash of the fourth frame assembly. [Figure 5D]
[0022] Figure 5A shows a side view of the insulator of the fourth frame assembly. [Figure 6A]
[0023] Figure showing an assembled fifth frame assembly connecting a mesh (and / or other infill) to a frame. [Figure 6B]
[0024] Side view of the outer sash of the fifth frame assembly of FIG. 6A. [Figure 6C]
[0025] Side view of the inner sash of the fifth frame assembly of FIG. 6A. [Figure 7]
[0026] Partial view of a screen system having a mesh using the fifth frame assembly of FIG. 6A.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] Detailed Description
[0027] The present disclosure has utility in security screen systems for doors and windows of buildings including homes. For purposes of illustration, reference may be made to such utility. However, the present disclosure also has utility in any other applications, such as, for example, fence and balustrade systems, insect screens for doors and windows, screens for covering openings, vents, walls or partitions of structures, or any other applications where a mesh screen or interface is desirable.
[0008]
[0028] The following description should not be construed in a limiting sense, but is made for the purpose of illustrating generally the principles of exemplary embodiments. Throughout this specification, references to "one form", "one embodiment", "an embodiment", "some embodiments", "one implementation", "some implementations", "some uses", or similar language mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Thus, appearances throughout this specification of "in one embodiment", "in an embodiment", "in some embodiments", "in some implementations", and similar language are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.
[0009]
[0029] The terms “top” and “bottom,” “upper side” and “lower side,” and “vertical” and “horizontal,” as used herein, are illustrative and for illustrative purposes only, and are not intended to limit the description of embodiments insofar as the items being referenced can be interchanged in position and orientation. Furthermore, as used herein, the terms “substantially” and / or “about” mean that the specified dimensions or parameters may vary within acceptable manufacturing tolerances for a given application.
[0010]
[0030] Figure 1 shows a security screen system 10 including a rectangular frame 12 (or sash) composed of multiple frame assemblies 14 (in this case, four frame assemblies). The frame assemblies 14 define the openings to be occupied by the mesh / infill screen 16. The rectangular frames extend around the mesh / infill screen 16 to support it. The material of the mesh / infill screen 16 may be any of various types of infill material, such as stainless steel wire, perforated metal sheet, or insect-proof cloth. The frame assemblies 14 are typically aluminum channels with various internal structures. The edges of the mesh / infill screen 16 are fastened within the frame assemblies 14, and the frame assemblies 14 are then joined to each other at the corners of the frame 12. Details of various embodiments of the frame, frame assemblies, mesh / infill screen, and other aspects of the security screen system are described, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 6,802,357 and U.S. Patent No. 8,191,606, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
[0011]
[0031] Generally, this disclosure includes a variety of fastening assemblies for use in holding and maintaining mesh (or infill) in security screens. Each fastening system generally includes an outer sash, an inner sash, and an insulator that receives the mesh / infill. Generally, the inner sash and insulator are intended to be insertable into the outer sash using automated or semi-automated processes and machinery, such as adapted or modified presses. As further described below, the wings (or legs) of the inner sash and the wings (or lips) of the insulator are designed to be pressed into place / inserted by machinery to increase the strength of each frame assembly. The use of fasteners such as support screws or rivets also significantly improves the tensile strength of the infill material and secures it better within the outer sash. In addition, it should be understood that the terms “mesh” and “infill” are used broadly in this disclosure. The term “infill” is intended to broadly refer to any kind of sheet-like or other material that can be used in the systems and methods described herein.
[0012]
[0032] Figures 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D show a first embodiment of the frame assembly 100, which generally illustrates a sawtooth lock with a push-plug concept. Figure 2A shows the frame assembly 100 in an assembled state. In one embodiment, the frame assembly 100 includes an outer sash 112 including two opposing side walls 102 that are substantially parallel to each other. Each side wall 102 preferably has a base 104 and an upper part 106, the base 104 and the upper part 106 being separated by a partition wall 108, and the upper part 106 may be narrower in width than the base 104. The base 104 preferably includes one or more corner fixing screws 110 that can be used to connect one frame assembly 100 to another frame assembly at the corner of the frame 10. In this embodiment, the upper part 106 is preferably U-shaped and defines a channel 113 or recess that opens toward the interior of the security screen system 10.
[0013]
[0033] Figure 2B shows the outer sash 112 before assembly. In one embodiment, the outer sash 112 may be made of aluminum, but other materials may also be used. As can be seen from the figure, in this embodiment, the U-shaped upper part 106 includes two sets of sawtooth 114. Each set is located inside the side wall 102 and faces each other. In this embodiment, there are several (in this case, four) closely spaced sawtooth 114 (or barbs or teeth) near the center of each side wall 102. The outer sash 112 also preferably includes additional teeth 116, i.e., sawtooth / barbs, inside each side wall 102 near the upper end of the upper part 106. The sawtooth 114 and sawtooth 116 generally function to hold the inner sash 120 within the channel 113, as will be further described below. In this configuration, the two side walls 102 of the outer sash 112 become thinner at the top to accommodate the plug, as described below, and terminate with two thin walls 118, which are preferably thinner than the rest of the side walls 102.
[0014]
[0034] Figure 2C shows the inner sash 120 before assembly. The inner sash 120 is generally configured to be inserted into and received within the outer sash 112 and to be held by the outer sash 112. The inner sash 120 is preferably in the form of a flexible U-shaped member having two serrated legs 122 (or wings). The inner sash 120 may be made of aluminum, but other materials may also be used. As can be seen from the figure, the serrations are on the outside of the two legs 122. A group of closely spaced serrations 124 is preferably configured to engage with the corresponding closely spaced serrations 114 on the outer sash 112 to hold the inner sash 120 within the channel 113. The inner sash 120 preferably includes additional teeth 126, or serrations, configured to engage with additional teeth 116 on the outer sash 112. In this configuration, the two legs 122 widen at their upper ends and terminate with two wide walls 127, which are preferably the same width as or wider than the rest of the legs 122. These two wide walls 127 function as plugs (in combination with the insulator) to facilitate the insertion of the inner sash / insulator combination into the outer sash 112 during assembly.
[0015]
[0035] Figure 2D shows the insulator 128 before assembly. The insulator 128 is generally configured to be inserted into and received within a channel 129 (or recess) of the inner sash 120, which is formed by the two legs 122 of the inner sash 120. The insulator 128 preferably includes two lip portions 130 (or wing portions) that terminate at a cap 132. The insulator 128 may be made of Santoprene, but other thermoplastic elastomers or other materials may also be used. The lip portions 130 are configured to engage with the mesh and / or other infill 138 and to be crimped (or pinched or compressed) around the mesh and / or other infill 138, allowing the mesh and / or other infill 138 to be received within the insulator 128. When assembled, the lower surface of the cap 132 preferably engages with the upper end of the outer sash 112. As can be seen in Figure 2A, the mesh and / or other infill 138 is preferably secured in place within the insulator 128 by fasteners 136 such as support screws or rivets, the fasteners 136 are generally inserted at or just above the tops of the closely spaced saw teeth.
[0016]
[0036] In certain circumstances, it has been found desirable to use sawtooths as the primary engagement feature between the outer sash 112 and the inner sash 120. Multiple sawtooths provide a firm engagement between the outer sash 112 and the inner sash 120 to hold the inner sash 120 within the outer sash 112. These sawtooths and other engagement features of the outer sash (such as hooks) are described throughout this disclosure. These engagement features of the outer sash generally engage with the corresponding engagement features of the inner sash (such as the corresponding sawtooths and hooks). In addition, in certain circumstances, it has been found desirable to use a plug formed by the combination of the inner sash 120 and the insulator 128 to facilitate the application of mechanical pushing or pulling forces for inserting the inner sash / insulator combination into the outer sash 112.
[0017]
[0037] Furthermore, as described above, in one embodiment, it is preferable to use an elastomer material or other non-metallic material for the insulator 128. In some embodiments, the mesh and / or other infill 138 may be made of a high-strength metallic material such as stainless steel, and the outer sash 112 and inner sash 120 may be made of a relatively lightweight metallic material such as aluminum. It is desirable to have an insulator 128 between the metal mesh and / or other infill 138 and the metal inner sash 120 to separate and insulate these components from each other. Otherwise, direct engagement of certain metallic materials such as stainless steel and aluminum may promote galvanic corrosion. When stainless steel and aluminum are used together in an assembly, electrons from the aluminum tend to move to the stainless steel over time, which leads to the weakening of the aluminum. This weakening causes the aluminum to deteriorate, leading to a shortened useful life of the component.
[0018]
[0038] Figures 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D show a second embodiment of the frame assembly 200, which generally illustrates the sawtooth locking concept (without push plugs). Figure 3A shows the frame assembly 200 in its assembled state. This second embodiment is generally similar to the first embodiment, but has certain structural differences in the outer and inner sashes, as described below.
[0019]
[0039] In one embodiment, the frame assembly 200 includes an outer sash 212 comprising two opposing side walls 202 that are substantially parallel to each other. Each side wall 202 preferably has a base 204 and an upper part 206, which are separated by a partition wall 208, and the upper part 206 may be narrower than the base 204. The base 204 preferably includes one or more corner fixing screws 210 that can be used to connect one frame assembly 200 to another frame assembly at the corner of the frame 10. In this embodiment, the upper part 206 is preferably U-shaped and defines a channel 213 or recess that opens toward the interior of the security screen system 10.
[0020]
[0040] Figure 3B shows the outer sash 212 before assembly. In one embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the outer sash 212 may be made of aluminum, but other materials may also be used. As can be seen from the figure, in this embodiment, the U-shaped upper part 206 includes two sets of sawtooth 214. Each set is located inside the side walls 202 and faces each other. In this embodiment, there are multiple (in this case, four) closely spaced sawtooth 214 (or barbs or teeth) near the center of each side wall 202. The outer sash 212 also preferably includes additional teeth 216, i.e., sawtooth / barbs, inside each side wall 202 near the upper end of the upper part 206. The sawtooth 214 and sawtooth 216 generally function to hold the inner sash 220 within the channel 213, as will be further described below. In this embodiment, in contrast to the first embodiment, the two side walls 202 of the outer sash 212 do not terminate at the upper end with two thin walls. Instead, the two side walls 202 are terminated by additional teeth 216 on each side wall 202.
[0021]
[0041] Figure 3C shows the inner sash 220 before assembly. The inner sash 220 is generally configured to be inserted into and received within the outer sash 212 and to be held by the outer sash 212. The inner sash 220 is preferably in the form of a flexible U-shaped member having two serrated legs 222 (or wings). In one embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the inner sash 220 may be made of aluminum, but other materials may also be used. As can be seen from the figure, the serrations are on the outside of the two legs 222. A group of closely spaced serrations 224 is preferably configured to engage with the corresponding closely spaced serrations 214 on the outer sash 212 to hold the inner sash 220 within the channel 213. The inner sash 220 preferably includes additional teeth 226, or serrations, configured to engage with additional teeth 116 on the outer sash 112. In this configuration, the two legs 222 do not have a wide plug portion at their upper end. Instead, the two legs 222 terminate with additional teeth 226 on each leg 222, which are configured to engage with corresponding additional teeth 216 on the outer sash 212.
[0022]
[0042] Figure 3D shows the insulator 228 before assembly. The insulator 228 is preferably similar to the insulator 128 used in the first embodiment. The insulator 228 may be made of Santoprene, but other thermoplastic elastomers or other materials may also be used. The insulator 228 is generally configured to be inserted into and received within a channel 229 (or recess) of the inner sash 220, which is formed by two legs 222 of the inner sash 220. The insulator 228 preferably includes two lip portions 230 (or wing portions) that terminate at a cap 232. The lip portions 230 are configured to engage with the mesh and / or other infill 238 and to be crimped (or pinched or compressed) around the mesh and / or other infill 238 in order to allow the mesh and / or other infill 238 to be received within the insulator 228. When assembled, the lower surface of the cap 232 preferably engages with the upper end of the outer sash 212. As can be seen in Figure 3A, the mesh and / or other infill 238 is preferably secured in place within the insulator 228 by fasteners 236 such as support screws or rivets, the fasteners 236 generally being inserted at or just above the tops of the closely spaced sawtooth. In one embodiment, the fasteners 236 are positioned further from the bottom of the insulator 228 than the fasteners in the first embodiment.
[0023]
[0043] Figures 4A, 4B, 4C, and 4D show a third embodiment of the frame assembly 300, which generally illustrates a hook lock with a push-plug concept. Figure 4A shows the frame assembly 300 in its assembled state. This third embodiment is generally similar to the first embodiment, but has certain structural differences relating to the serrations of the outer and inner sashes, as described below.
[0024]
[0044] In one embodiment, the frame assembly 300 includes an outer sash 312 comprising two opposing side walls 302 that are substantially parallel to each other. Each side wall 302 preferably has a base 304 and an upper part 306, the base 304 and the upper part 306 separated by a partition wall 308, and the upper part 306 may have a narrower width than the base 304. The base 304 preferably includes one or more corner fixing screws 310 that can be used to connect one frame assembly 300 to another frame assembly at the corner of the frame 10. In this embodiment, the upper part 306 is preferably U-shaped and defines a channel 313 or recess that opens toward the interior of the security screen system 10.
[0025]
[0045] Figure 4B shows the outer sash 312 before assembly. In one embodiment, as in the other embodiments, the outer sash 312 may be made of aluminum, but other materials may also be used. As can be seen from the figure, in this embodiment, the U-shaped top 306 does not include the closely spaced serrations (or barbs or teeth) that were present in the first two embodiments. Instead, in this embodiment, the U-shaped top 306 includes two hooks 314. Each hook 314 is located inside the side wall 302 and faces each other. The outer sash 312 also preferably includes additional teeth 316, i.e., serrations / barbs, inside each side wall 302 near the upper end of the top 306. The hooks 314 and additional teeth 316 generally function to hold the inner sash 320 within the channel 313, as will be further described below. In this configuration, the two side walls 302 of the outer sash 312 narrow at the top and terminate with two thin walls 318, which are preferably thinner than the rest of the side walls 302, in order to accommodate the plug, as described below.
[0026]
[0046] Figure 4C shows the inner sash 320 before assembly. The inner sash 320 is generally configured to be inserted into and received within the outer sash 312 and held by the outer sash 312. The inner sash 320 is preferably in the form of a flexible U-shaped member having two legs 322 (or wings). As with other embodiments, the inner sash 320 may be made of aluminum, but other materials may also be used. As can be seen from the figure, hooks 324 are present on the outside of each of the two legs 322. The hooks 324 are preferably configured to engage with corresponding hooks 314 on the outer sash 312 in order to hold the inner sash 320 within the channel 313. The inner sash 320 preferably includes additional teeth 326, or serrations, configured to engage with additional teeth 316 on the outer sash 312. In this configuration, the two legs 322 widen at their upper ends and terminate with two wide walls 327, which are preferably the same width as or wider than the rest of the legs 322. These two wide walls 327 function as plugs (in combination with the insulator) to facilitate the insertion of the inner sash / insulator combination into the outer sash 312 during assembly.
[0027]
[0047] Figure 4D shows the insulator 328 before assembly. The insulator 328 is preferably similar to the insulator used in the other two embodiments. The insulator 328 is generally configured to be inserted into and received within a channel 329 (or recess) of the inner sash 320, which is formed by the two legs 322 of the inner sash 320. The insulator 328 preferably includes two lip portions 330 (or wings) that terminate at a cap 332. The lip portions 330 are configured to engage with the mesh and / or other infill 338 and to be crimped (or pinched or compressed) around the mesh and / or other infill 338, allowing the mesh and / or other infill 338 to be received within the insulator 328. When assembled, the lower surface of the cap 332 preferably engages with the upper end of the outer sash 312. As can be seen in Figure 4A, the mesh and / or other infill 338 is preferably secured in place within the insulator 328 by fasteners 336 such as support screws or rivets, the fasteners 336 are generally inserted between the hooks 314 and the additional saw teeth 316.
[0028]
[0048] Figures 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D show a fourth embodiment of the frame assembly 400, which generally illustrates the hook-lock concept (without push plugs). Figure 5A shows the frame assembly 400 in its assembled state. This fourth embodiment is generally similar to the third embodiment, but has certain structural differences in the outer and inner sashes, as described below.
[0029]
[0049] In one embodiment, the frame assembly 400 includes an outer sash 412 comprising two opposing side walls 402 that are substantially parallel to each other. Each side wall 402 preferably has a base 404 and an upper part 406, the base 404 and the upper part 406 separated by a partition wall 408, and the upper part 406 may have a narrower width than the base 404. The base 404 preferably includes one or more corner fixing screws 410 that can be used to connect one frame assembly 400 to another frame assembly at the corner of the frame 10. In this embodiment, the upper part 406 is preferably U-shaped and defines a channel 413 or recess that opens toward the interior of the security screen system 10.
[0030]
[0050] Figure 5B shows the outer sash 412 before assembly. In one embodiment, as in other embodiments, the outer sash 412 may be made of aluminum, but other materials may also be used. As can be seen from the figure, in this embodiment, the U-shaped upper 406 includes two hooks 414. Each hook 414 is located on the inside of the side wall 402 and faces each other. The outer sash 412 also preferably includes additional teeth 416, i.e., serrations / barbs, on the inside of each side wall 402 near the upper end of the upper 406. The hooks 414 and additional teeth 416 generally function to hold the inner sash 420 within the channel 413, as will be further described below. Furthermore, in contrast to the third embodiment, the upper 406 preferably includes a cavity 419 formed in the partition wall 408 (the floor portion of the upper 406), as will be described below, configured to receive a portion of the inner sash 420.
[0031]
[0051] Figure 5C shows the inner sash 420 before assembly. The inner sash 420 is generally configured to be inserted into and received within the outer sash 412 and held by the outer sash 412. The inner sash 420 is preferably in the form of a flexible U-shaped member having two legs 422 (or wings). As in other embodiments, the inner sash 420 may be made of aluminum, but other materials may also be used. As can be seen from the figure, hooks 424 are present on the outside of each of the two legs 422. The hooks 424 are preferably configured to engage with corresponding hooks 414 on the outer sash 412 in order to hold the inner sash 420 within the channel 413. The inner sash 420 preferably includes additional teeth 426, or serrations, configured to engage with additional teeth 416 on the outer sash 412. In this embodiment, the two legs 422 do not have a wide plug portion at the upper end. Instead, the two legs 422 terminate with additional teeth 426 on each leg 422, configured to engage with corresponding additional teeth 416 on the outer sash 412. Furthermore, in one embodiment, in contrast to the third embodiment, the inner sash 420 includes a projection 427 that protrudes from the bottom of the "U" and is configured to be received within the cavity 419 of the outer sash 412.
[0032]
[0052] Figure 5D shows the insulator 428 before assembly. The insulator 428 is preferably similar to the insulator used in other embodiments. The insulator 428 is generally configured to be inserted into and received within a channel 429 (or recess) of the inner sash 420, which is formed by the two legs 422 of the inner sash 420. As in other embodiments, the insulator 428 may be made of Santoprene, but other thermoplastic elastomers or other materials may also be used. The insulator 428 preferably includes two lip portions 430 (or wing portions) terminated at a cap 432. The lip portions 430 are configured to engage with the mesh and / or other infill 438 and to be crimped (or pinched or compressed) around the mesh and / or other infill 438, allowing the mesh and / or other infill 438 to be received within the insulator 428. When assembled, the lower surface of the cap 432 preferably engages with the upper end of the outer sash 412. As can be seen in Figure 5A, the mesh and / or other infill 438 is preferably secured in place within the insulator 428 by fasteners 436 such as support screws or rivets, the fasteners 436 generally being inserted between the hooks 414 and the additional sawtooth 416.
[0033]
[0053] This disclosure also relates to methods for assembling security screen systems such as the various embodiments described above, and discussions of various embodiments are incorporated herein. First, a mesh and / or other infill, an outer sash, an inner sash, and an insulator may be provided as described above. In one embodiment, the lip (or wing) of the insulator may be crimped (or clamped) around the ends of the mesh and / or other infill so as to hold the mesh and / or other infill within the insulator. The insulator may be placed within the inner sash, and the combination of the mesh and / or other infill, the insulator, and the inner sash may be fastened (or secured) together by fasteners.
[0034]
[0054] In this configuration, the fastened mesh and / or other infill, insulator, and inner sash combination can be inserted into the channel of the outer sash. A force can be applied to move the fastened mesh and / or other infill, inner sash, and insulator into the channel of the outer sash. The force should be sufficient to move the engaging features of the inner sash beyond the engaging features of the outer sash. This force is generally intended to be applied as some kind of pushing or pulling force that can be applied in an automated manner, for example, by a machine such as a press, hydraulic or pneumatic machine of some form of adaptation or modification. Alternatively, the fastened mesh and / or other infill, insulator, and inner sash combination can be inserted into the channel of the outer sash by sliding the inner sash laterally into the channel of the outer sash. While all or part of this method can be carried out in an automated or semi-automated manner, in certain circumstances, the assembly method may also be carried out entirely by hand.
[0035]
[0055] Figures 6A, 6B, and 6C show a fifth embodiment of the frame assembly 500, which generally illustrates a plastic inner wedge fastening system. Figure 6A shows the frame assembly 500 in its assembled state. This fifth embodiment is generally similar to the previously described embodiments, but has certain structural differences in the outer and inner sashes, as described below, and uses glue or adhesive strips as insulators.
[0036]
[0056] In one embodiment, the frame assembly 500 includes an outer sash 512 comprising two opposing side walls 502 that are substantially parallel to each other. Each side wall 502 preferably has a base 504 and an upper part 506, the base 504 and the upper part 506 separated by a partition wall 508, and the upper part 506 may be narrower than the base 504. The base 504 preferably includes one or more corner fixing screws 510 that can be used to connect one frame assembly 500 to another frame assembly at the corner of the frame 10. In this embodiment, the upper part 506 is preferably U-shaped and defines a channel 513 or recess that opens toward the interior of the security screen system 10.
[0037]
[0057] Figure 6B shows the outer sash 512 before assembly. In one embodiment, as in other embodiments, the outer sash 512 may be made of aluminum, but other materials may also be used. As can be seen from the figure, in this embodiment, the U-shaped upper part 506 includes two hooks 514. Each hook 514 is located inside the side wall 502 and faces each other. The outer sash 512 also preferably includes additional teeth 516, or serrations / barbs, inside each side wall 502 near the upper end of the upper part 506. The hooks 514 and additional teeth 516 generally function to hold the inner sash 520 within the channel 513, as will be further described below.
[0038]
[0058] Figure 6C shows the inner sash 520 (or plastic inner wedge 520) before assembly. The inner sash 520 is generally configured to be inserted into and received within the outer sash 512 and held by the outer sash 512. The inner sash 520 is preferably in the form of a flexible U-shaped member having two legs 522 (or wings). In one embodiment, the inner sash 520 may be made of a plastic material such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), but other materials (e.g., aluminum) may also be used. As can be seen from the figure, hooks 524 are present on the outside of each of the two legs 522. The hooks 524 are preferably configured to engage with corresponding hooks 514 on the outer sash 512 in order to hold the inner sash 520 within the channel 513. The inner sash 520 preferably includes additional teeth 526, or serrations, configured to engage with additional teeth 516 on the outer sash 512. In this configuration, each of the two legs 522 preferably terminates at its upper end with a wide plug (or stopper) portion 527.
[0039]
[0059] In this embodiment, glue or adhesive is applied between the mesh / infill 538 and the inner sash 520 and functions as an insulator 528. In one embodiment, the adhesive 528 is intended to be in the form of a double-sided adhesive strip that is folded at the edge of the mesh / infill 538 and applied to both sides. The inner sash 520 can then be applied to the adhesive strip so that the adhesive strip is sandwiched between the mesh / infill 538 and the inner sash 520. This adhesive strip may be in the form of epoxy adhesive, polyurethane adhesive, or other types of adhesive strip and may be used to fasten the mesh and the inner sash 520 together. Furthermore, optionally, the mesh and / or other infill 538 may be further fastened to the inner sash 520 by fasteners 536 such as support screws or rivets driven through the inner sash 520, as shown in Figure 7. The fastener 536 is shown in Figure 7, but it is not normally visible when the outer sash 512 is positioned above the inner sash 520.
[0040]
[0060] Another example of an assembly method, for example, including a frame assembly 500, is described here. However, it should be understood that this method may also be used for other frame assemblies described in this disclosure. First, a sheet of mesh / infill 538 may be spread out on a workspace after being cut to the desired size. Next, an insulator 528 (e.g., a double-sided adhesive strip) may be applied along one edge of the mesh / infill 538 so that the insulator 528 is applied to both sides of the mesh / infill 538. Next, the mesh / infill 538 (with the insulator 528) is inserted into the inner sash 520. The mesh / infill 538 (with the insulator 528) is preferably inserted so that the insulator 528 engages with the inner sash 520 (and the mesh / infill 538 does not come into direct contact with the inner sash 520). The inner sash 520 is preferably cut and sized so as not to overlap the corners of the mesh / infill 538. The inner sash 520 may be tapped using a tool such as a rubber mallet to press the mesh / infill 538, insulator 528, and inner sash 520 together. Any excess portion of the insulator 528 at the corners of the mesh / infill 538 may be cut off and removed.
[0041]
[0061] In one embodiment, the inner sash 520 may be riveted by a riveting machine or the like so that the mesh / infill 538, the insulator, and the inner sash 520 are held together by fasteners 536. For example, the rivets 536 may be applied with the first rivet starting 15 mm from the shorter edge of the inner sash 520, and the subsequent rivets 536 placed 150 mm apart from each other. Other riveting arrangements and spacings may also be used, as understood. The above process is generally repeated until four inner sashes 520 are fastened around the outer rectangular periphery of the mesh / infill 538.
[0042]
[0062] Next, three of the inner sashes 520 can each be slid laterally into the corresponding outer sashes 512. The three outer sashes 512 are fastened to each other at two corners by one or more corner fixing screws 510 that engage with corner stakes 540 or other corner fastening assemblies at each corner. Next, a fourth outer sash 512 can be aligned and positioned such that the corner fixing screws 510 engage with the corner stakes 540 at the other two corners. Once positioned, the fourth outer sash 512 can be fastened around the fourth inner sash 520 by applying force using a tensioning machine or press (rather than by sliding engagement) to pull (or push) the outer sash 512 toward the interior of the mesh / infill 538 onto the fourth inner sash 520, thereby covering the fourth inner sash 520. The corner fixing screws 510 and corner stakes 540 can be fixed at the four corners by auto-crimping or by applying a crimping force.
[0043]
[0063] Accordingly, generally speaking, systems, apparatus, and methods for security screen systems are provided herein according to various embodiments. In one embodiment, the system includes a mesh and / or other infill and a frame comprising a plurality of frame assemblies surrounding the mesh and / or other infill. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the system includes, at least one of the frame assemblies, an outer sash comprising a first side wall and a second side wall, defining a first channel between the first and second side walls, each side wall comprising at least one first engagement feature; an inner sash received within the outer sash, the inner sash comprising a first leg and a second leg for engaging with the first and second side walls, respectively, each leg comprising at least one second engagement feature configured to engage with at least one first engagement feature of the side wall to facilitate the retention of the inner sash within the first channel; and an insulator at least partially received within the inner sash, the insulator configured to engage with the ends of mesh and / or other infill within the insulator.
[0044]
[0064] In some implementations, the system further includes a first fastener that engages with and holds the mesh and / or other infill, inner sash and insulator, the first fastener being located within a first channel. In some implementations, the outer sash further includes a second fastener configured to connect the first frame assembly to a second frame assembly. In some implementations, the two legs of the inner sash define a second channel between the two legs, the second channel configured to receive an insulator within the second channel. In some implementations, the insulator comprises an elastomer material. In some implementations, the insulator comprises a glue or adhesive configured to attach the mesh and / or other infill to the inner sash. In some implementations, the insulator comprises an adhesive strip composed at least partially of an epoxy or polyurethane material. In some implementations, the outer sash and inner sash each comprise a metallic material. In some implementations, the inner sash includes a plastic material. In some implementations, the insulator includes two lip portions, the two lip portions configured for crimping to hold mesh and / or other infill between the two lip portions. In some implementations, the insulator includes a cap portion that overlaps and engages with the first end of the first side wall and the second end of the second side wall. In some implementations, at least one first engaging feature portion of each side wall includes a plurality of saw teeth, the first side wall includes a first plurality of saw teeth, and the second side wall includes a second plurality of saw teeth. In some implementations, at least one second engaging feature portion of each leg of the inner sash includes a plurality of saw teeth, the first leg includes a first plurality of saw teeth, and the second leg includes a second plurality of saw teeth. In some implementations, at least one first engaging feature portion of each side wall includes saw teeth located at the end of each side wall. In some implementations, at least one second engaging feature portion of each leg of the inner sash includes a sawtooth positioned at the end of each leg.In some implementations, at least one first engaging feature of each side wall includes a hook positioned between a first end and a second end of each side wall. In some implementations, at least one second engaging feature of each leg of the inner sash includes a hook positioned between a first end and a second end of each leg. In some implementations, each leg of the inner sash includes a plug portion at the end of each leg, the plug portion being wider than the rest of the leg. In some implementations, the insulator includes a cap portion that overlaps the plug portion of each leg. In some implementations, the inner sash includes a projection, and the outer sash includes a cavity, the projection being configured to be received within the cavity to seat the inner sash within the outer sash.
[0045]
[0065] In another embodiment, a method for assembling a screen system is provided. This method includes crimping the lip portion of an insulator around the end of the mesh and / or other infill, positioning the insulator at least partially within the inner sash, and fastening the mesh and / or other infill, the inner sash, and the insulator together. In some implementations, the method also includes applying a force to move the fastened mesh and / or other infill, the inner sash, and the insulator into a first channel of the outer sash, the force being sufficient to move at least one first engagement feature beyond at least one second engagement feature. In some implementations, the force may be applied mechanically.
[0046]
[0066] In another embodiment, a method for assembling a screen system is provided, the method comprising: preparing a sheet of mesh and / or other infill material having a rectangular periphery; applying insulators to the front and back surfaces of the sheet of mesh and / or other infill material along each of the four edges of the rectangular periphery; and applying four inner sash members so as to overlap the insulators along each of the four edges, wherein each inner sash member includes four inner sash members, each including two foldable legs configured to engage with the insulators on the sides of the insulators facing the front and back surfaces of the sheet of mesh and / or other infill material. The method includes sliding three outer sash members along three edges onto three inner sash members, each outer sash member comprising a first side wall and a second side wall, the first and second side walls defining a channel between the first and second side walls for receiving a corresponding inner sash member, and each outer sash member comprising an engagement feature for engaging with a corresponding engagement feature of a corresponding inner sash member, and applying a pressing or tensile force to move a fourth outer sash member onto the fourth inner sash member in a direction toward the interior of a sheet of mesh and / or other infill material. In some implementations, the insulator comprises glue or adhesive configured to adhere the mesh and / or other infill to the inner sash members. To ensure understanding, the terms "inner sash" and "outer sash" are used interchangeably in this disclosure with "inner sash member" and "outer sash member."
[0047]
[0067] The matters described herein and in the accompanying drawings are provided for illustrative purposes only and not as limitations. While specific embodiments have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that changes and modifications can be made without departing from broader aspects of the technical contribution. The actual scope of the protection sought is intended to be defined in the following claims.
Claims
1. Mesh and / or other infill, A frame including a plurality of frame assemblies surrounding the mesh and / or other infill, Includes, At least one of the frame assemblies is An outer sash comprising a first side wall and a second side wall, defining a first channel between the first side wall and the second side wall, wherein each side wall includes at least one first engagement feature, An inner sash received within the outer sash, the inner sash includes a first leg and a second leg configured to engage with the first side wall and the second side wall, respectively, each leg including at least one second engaging feature configured to engage with the at least one first engaging feature of the side wall to facilitate the retention of the inner sash within the first channel, An insulator, at least partially received within the inner sash, configured to engage with the ends of the mesh and / or other infill within the insulator, A screen system including...
2. The screen system according to claim 1, further comprising a first fastener that engages with the mesh and / or other infill, the inner sash and the insulator, and holds the mesh and / or other infill, the inner sash and the insulator, the first fastener being located within the first channel.
3. The screen system according to claim 1, wherein the outer sash further includes a second fastener, the second fastener being configured to connect the first frame assembly to the second frame assembly.
4. The screen system according to claim 1, wherein the two legs of the inner sash define a second channel between the two legs, and the second channel is configured to receive the insulator within the second channel.
5. The screen system according to claim 1, wherein the insulator comprises an elastomer material.
6. The screen system according to claim 1, wherein the insulator includes a glue or adhesive configured to attach the mesh and / or other infill to the inner sash.
7. The screen system according to claim 6, wherein the insulator includes an adhesive strip made at least partially of an epoxy or polyurethane material.
8. The screen system according to claim 1, wherein the insulator includes two lip portions, the two lip portions being configured for crimping to hold the mesh and / or other infill between the two lip portions.
9. The screen system according to claim 1, wherein the insulator includes a cap portion that overlaps and engages with the first end of the first side wall and the second end of the second side wall.
10. The screen system according to claim 1, wherein the at least one first engagement feature portion of each side wall includes a plurality of saw teeth, the first side wall includes a first plurality of saw teeth, and the second side wall includes a second plurality of saw teeth.
11. The screen system according to claim 10, wherein the at least one second engaging feature portion of each leg of the inner sash includes a plurality of saw teeth, the first leg includes a first plurality of saw teeth, and the second leg includes a second plurality of saw teeth.
12. The screen system according to claim 1, wherein the at least one first engagement feature of each side wall includes a sawtooth positioned at the end of each side wall.
13. The screen system according to claim 12, wherein the at least one second engaging feature portion of each leg of the inner sash includes a sawtooth disposed at the end of each leg.
14. The screen system according to claim 1, wherein the at least one first engagement feature of each side wall includes a hook positioned between the first end and the second end of each side wall.
15. The screen system according to claim 14, wherein the at least one second engaging feature of each leg of the inner sash includes a hook positioned between the first end and the second end of each leg.
16. The screen system according to claim 1, wherein each leg of the inner sash includes a plug portion at the end of each leg, and the plug portion is wider than the other parts of the leg.
17. The screen system according to claim 16, wherein the insulator includes a cap portion that overlaps the plug portion of each leg.
18. The screen system according to claim 1, wherein the inner sash includes a projection, the outer sash includes a cavity, and the projection is configured to be received within the cavity in order to seat the inner sash within the outer sash.
19. A method for assembling the screen system described in claim 1, Crimping the insulator around the end of the mesh and / or other infill, The insulator is placed at least partially inside the inner sash, The mesh and / or other infill, the inner sash, and the insulator are fastened together, Methods that include...
20. The method according to claim 19, further comprising applying force to move the fastened mesh and / or other infill, the inner sash, and the insulator into the first channel of the outer sash, wherein the force is sufficient to move the at least one first engagement feature beyond the at least one second engagement feature.
21. A method for assembling a screen system, Prepare a sheet of mesh and / or other infill material having a rectangular periphery with four edges, Applying an insulator to the front and back surfaces of the sheet of the mesh and / or other infill material along each of the four edges of the rectangular periphery, Applying four inner sash members so as to overlap the insulator along each of the four edges, wherein each inner sash member includes two foldable legs configured to engage with the insulator on the sides of the insulator facing the front and back surfaces of the sheet of mesh and / or other infill material, A method for sliding three outer sash members along three edges onto three inner sash members, wherein each outer sash member includes a first side wall and a second side wall, the first and second side walls define a channel between the first and second side walls for receiving a corresponding inner sash member, and each outer sash member includes an engagement feature for engaging with a corresponding engagement feature of the corresponding inner sash member, Applying a pressing or tensile force to move the fourth outer sash member on the fourth inner sash member in a direction toward the interior of the sheet of the mesh and / or other infill material, Methods that include...
22. The method according to claim 21, wherein the insulator includes a glue or adhesive configured to attach the mesh and / or other infill to the inner sash member.