Waterproofing devices and sashes

Abstract

To provide a waterproof device which can be installed on an opening whose lower end is positioned higher than the ground.SOLUTION: A waterproof device 1 is configured to be installed in an opening whose lower end is positioned higher than the ground, the waterproof device 1 including: a mounting section 11 for mounting the waterproof device 1 to a frame body 22 for mounting panel bodies SD1, SD2, the mounting section being positioned on the outdoor side of the panel bodies SD1, SD2, and a waterproof member for covering at least the lower side of the opening to improve the waterproof property of at least the lower side of the opening.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a waterproof device installed for an opening whose lower end of the opening is at a position higher than the ground, and a sash provided with the waterproof device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a waterproof device or a water stop device (hereinafter referred to as "waterproof device") installed in an opening has been used to suppress or reduce water intrusion from the opening of a building or the like during a flood. Patent Document 1 discloses a technique related to a waterproof device using a water stop sheet, and Patent Document 2 discloses a technique related to a waterproof plate or a water stop plate (hereinafter referred to as "water stop plate").

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Conventional waterproof devices are provided for openings in buildings and the like, particularly for entrances (that is, basically, the lower end of the opening is at the ground), and there has been no waterproof device provided for windows (openings formed at a position higher than the ground) in buildings and the like.

[0005] In view of the above points, an object of the present invention is to provide a waterproof device that can be installed for an opening whose lower end of the opening is at a position higher than the ground.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] (Configuration 1) A waterproofing device installed for an opening whose lower end is located higher than the ground, comprising: a frame for installing a panel body in the opening; a mounting portion for attaching the waterproofing device to the panel body or any of the surrounding members of the opening (such as an exterior wall, foundation, or base flashing provided around these) at a position on the exterior side of the panel body; and a waterproofing member that covers at least the lower side of the opening to improve the waterproofing of at least the lower side of the opening.

[0007] (Configuration 2) The waterproofing device according to configuration 1, wherein the waterproofing member is a water-stopping plate, a sealing member is provided on the water-stopping plate at a position facing the frame, and the mounting portion is a fitting portion that fits into the rib-shaped member of the frame.

[0008] (Composition 3) The waterproofing device according to configuration 2, wherein the rib-shaped member is a rail member for attaching a screen door, formed on the lower frame of the frame body.

[0009] (Composition 4) The waterproofing device according to configuration 1, wherein the waterproofing member comprises a first water-stopping plate installed between the screen door and the panel body on the side where the screen door is present, and a second water-stopping plate joined to the first water-stopping plate and installed on the side where the screen door is not present.

[0010] (Composition 5) The waterproofing device according to configuration 4, wherein the first water-stopping plate is provided with a lower end water-stopping portion that is inserted between the lower frame of the frame and the lower end of the screen door or the panel body to improve the waterproofing of that area, and the second water-stopping plate is provided with a sealing member at a position facing the frame.

[0011] (Composition 6) A waterproof device according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, comprising a sealing member provided at a position opposite to the frame of the panel body, and a water-stopping panel attached to the panel body at a position on the outdoor side.

[0012] (Composition 7) A waterproof device according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, wherein the waterproof member is composed of a hollow member having an opening at its lower end.

[0013] (Composition 8) The waterproof device according to configuration 7, wherein the mounting portion has an indoor forming surface and an outdoor forming surface, the mounting portion is formed below the indoor forming surface of the waterproof member, and at least a portion of the outdoor forming surface of the waterproof member at a position opposite the mounting portion is configured to be detachable.

[0014] (Composition 9) The waterproofing device according to configuration 1, comprising a floating member formed integrally with or separately from the waterproofing member, wherein the waterproofing member is configured to be movable upward by the buoyancy generated in the floating member due to a rise in water level, and under normal circumstances, the waterproofing member, which is located below the opening, is configured to cover at least the lower side of the opening due to the upward movement when the water level rises.

[0015] (Composition 10) The waterproof device according to configuration 3, further comprising an engaging portion that engages with the lower end of the panel body.

[0016] (Composition 11) A waterproof device according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, wherein the waterproof member has a foldable structure that can be unfolded, and the width dimension that decreases when folded increases when unfolded, so that it fits into the frame.

[0017] (Composition 12) The waterproofing device according to configuration 11, wherein elastic sealing members are provided at both ends in the width direction of the waterproofing member, and the width up to the outside of the sealing members at both ends is formed to be greater than the width inside the frame, so that the sealing members elastically deform when the waterproofing member is fitted into the frame.

[0018] (Composition 13) A sash equipped with a waterproofing device as described in any of configurations 1 to 12.

Advantages of the Invention

[0019] According to the waterproof device of the present invention or the sash provided with the same, the waterproof device can be installed for an opening whose lower end is at a position higher than the ground.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0020] [Figure 1] Schematic vertical sectional view showing the mounting state of the waterproof device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention [Figure 2] Schematic horizontal sectional view showing the mounting state of the waterproof device according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 3] Explanatory drawing showing another example of the waterproof device according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 4] Explanatory drawing showing another example of the waterproof device according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 5] Explanatory drawing showing another example of the waterproof device according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 6] Explanatory drawing showing another example of the waterproof device according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 7] Explanatory drawing showing another example of the waterproof device according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 8] Schematic horizontal sectional view showing the mounting state of the waterproof device according to Embodiment 2 [Figure 9] Schematic vertical sectional view showing the mounting state of the waterproof device according to Embodiment 2 [Figure 10] Schematic vertical sectional view showing the mounting state of the waterproof device according to Embodiment 2 [Figure 11] Schematic vertical sectional view showing the mounting state of the waterproof device according to Embodiment 3 [Figure 12] Schematic vertical sectional view showing another example of the waterproof device according to Embodiment 3 [Figure 13] Schematic vertical sectional view showing the mounting state of the waterproof device according to Embodiment 4 [Figure 14] Schematic horizontal sectional view showing the mounting state of the waterproof device according to Embodiment 4 [Figure 15] Schematic vertical sectional view showing the waterproof device according to Embodiment 5 [Figure 16] Explanatory drawing showing another example of the waterproof device according to Embodiment 5 [Figure 17] Diagram illustrating a sealant for improving the waterproofing of the joints at the corners of window frames. [Figure 18] An explanatory diagram showing another example of the waterproofing device of Embodiment 1. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0021] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiments are merely examples of how the present invention can be implemented, and do not limit the present invention to their scope.

[0022] <Embodiment 1> Figures 1 and 2 are schematic diagrams showing the waterproofing device of Embodiment 1 according to the present invention attached to a sash window, with Figure 1 being a schematic vertical cross-sectional view and Figure 2 being a schematic horizontal cross-sectional view. The waterproofing device 1 of this embodiment is a waterproofing device installed on a sash window, and a sash window is an "opening in which the lower end of the opening is located higher than the ground." The waterproofing device 1 includes a mounting portion 11 for attaching the waterproofing device 1 to a sash frame, which is a frame for installing a panel body (outer sash SD1, inner sash SD2) such as a glass window in an opening, at a position on the exterior side of the panel body, and a waterproofing member that covers at least the lower side of the sash window (opening) to improve the waterproofing of at least the lower side of the opening. In the following explanation, "width direction" refers to the direction along the window's opening and closing direction (the sliding direction of the sash), and "width dimension" refers to the length along the width direction.

[0023] A sash window is a sliding window in which an outer sash SD1 (such as a glass window) and an inner sash SD2 are installed on a sash frame consisting of an upper frame 21, a lower frame 22, and a pair of left and right vertical frames 23, which is installed in an opening formed in the wall of the house (the wall surface W to which the exterior wall OW is attached). In this embodiment, the sash window is a sliding window in which the lower frame 22 is installed on the foundation B of the house, and the lower frame of the inner frame (decorative window frame) F of the window is at the same level as the floor surface (or the lower frame F is the floor surface itself, such as flooring material). The lower frame 22 is formed with rail members 222, rail member 223, and rail member 221, which guide the movement of the outer sash SD1, the inner sash SD2, and the screen door (not shown in particular), each having a roller at its lower end. Furthermore, the sash window itself may be any sash window having a screen door rail (or a similar rib-shaped member), and the concept of the waterproofing device of this embodiment can be applied to any conventional sash window having a rib-shaped member; therefore, no further detailed explanation regarding the sash window itself will be provided.

[0024] The waterproofing device 1 of this embodiment serves as a water-stopping plate, covering the lower side of a sash window (opening). The basic form of the waterproofing device 1 is a roughly rectangular member when viewed from the front (when viewed from the left side in Figure 1, and from above in Figure 2). To provide strength to withstand water pressure while also reducing weight, it has a hollow panel body (or a hollow body filled with a filler such as foamed urethane) made of a metal such as aluminum, steel, stainless steel, or resin material such as PVC (a sheet or a sheet made by connecting extruded material), acrylic sheet, or polycarbonate sheet. A sealing member is provided at a position facing the frame (sash frame) of the waterproofing device 1. More specifically, as shown in Figure 1, a sealing member 113 is provided at a position facing the lower frame 22 at the bottom of the waterproofing device 1, and as shown in Figure 2, sealing members 122 are provided at positions facing the vertical frames 23 on both sides of the waterproofing device 1. The sealing members 113 and 122 are provided continuously across both sides and the bottom of the waterproofing device 1 (provided on three sides). This configuration constitutes a "waterproofing member that improves the waterproofing of at least the lower side of the opening." The sealing members are preferably waterproof and elastic, and are formed using resins such as soft rubber, foamed rubber, or urethane. Alternatively, a water-swelling material (a member that expands by absorbing water to seal gaps and stop water leakage) may be used.

[0025] The waterproofing device 1 of this embodiment is attached to the sash frame using the rib-shaped members of the sash frame. The mounting portion 11 for attaching the waterproofing device 1 is a fitting portion that fits into the rib-shaped members of the sash frame (rail members 221 for attaching screen doors, formed on the lower frame 22), and as shown in Figure 1, it is composed of an outer side wall 111 formed on the lower end side of the waterproofing device 1, an inner side wall 112, and a sealing member 113 provided on the inside of the outer side wall 111. In this embodiment, the inner side wall 112 is a member that extends to both ends of the waterproofing device 1 in the width direction, but it does not necessarily have to be formed continuously; for example, it may be a protrusion formed at several locations in the width direction of the waterproofing device 1. The same applies to the outer side wall 111, but since the outer side wall 111 is a member that supports the sealing member 113 from behind, it is preferable that the outer side wall 111 is a member that extends continuously to both ends of the waterproofing device 1 in the width direction. The gap between the sealing member 113 and the inner side wall 112 is smaller than the thickness of the rail member 221. By fitting the rail member 221 between the sealing member 113 and the inner side wall 112 (installing the waterproof device 1 by sliding it from top to bottom), the sealing member 113 elastically deforms, obtaining a predetermined engagement force and ensuring a tight seal, thereby installing the waterproof device 1. As can be seen from Figures 1 and 2, when water pressure is applied from the outside during a flood, this water pressure generates a force that presses the waterproofing device 1 against the sash frame (i.e., a force that causes the sealing members 113 and 122 to adhere tightly), thereby improving waterproofing performance.

[0026] As described above, the waterproofing device 1 of this embodiment allows for inexpensive and easy waterproofing of existing sash windows without the need to install special mounting members or the like. With the increasing severity of damage caused by floods in recent years, the amount of damage from flooding above floor level has also increased, and there is a growing need to prevent or reduce the damage from such flooding. To prevent or reduce the damage from flooding above floor level, it is essential to stop water from entering through sliding windows, but due to their structure, it is not easy to stop water from entering through sliding doors such as double-hung windows. In contrast, the waterproofing device 1 of this embodiment is extremely useful because it allows for inexpensive and easy water-stopping measures to be taken for existing sash windows.

[0027] In this embodiment, an example was given in which an attachment portion is formed on the lower end side of the waterproofing device, but the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, an example in which an attachment portion is formed on both sides of the waterproofing device may also be used. Figure 3 shows an example of such a thing. The waterproof device 1' in Figure 3 has mounting portions 12 on both sides, which are composed of an outer side wall 121, an inner side wall 123, and a sealing member 122 provided inside the outer side wall 121. The concept of these mounting portions 12 is the same as that of the mounting portion 11 in Embodiment 1. In addition, a mounting portion similar to that of Embodiment 1 is formed on the lower end side of the waterproof device 1'. The waterproofing device 1' is installed using a back-and-forth method, as shown in Figures 3(a) and (b). One side of the waterproofing device 1' is first fitted into the vertical frame 23 (a rib that engages with the edge of the screen door (not shown)), and then the other side is fitted in to reach the state shown in Figure 3(b). The sealing members 122 at both ends are made of elastic material, which improves the workability of this process. The operations shown in Figures 3(a) and 3(b) are performed when the lower end of the waterproofing device 1' is higher than the rail member 221 formed on the lower frame 22. After the operations shown in Figures 3(a) and 3(b), the waterproofing device 1' is slid downward as shown in Figure 3(c) to engage the mounting portion 11, thereby installing the waterproofing device 1'.

[0028] Figure 4 shows yet another example. The waterproof device 1'' in Figure 4 has engaging portions 124 at the upper part of both sides, which are biased by an elastic body and configured to extend and retract from both sides. The lower end of the waterproof device 1'' has a mounting portion similar to the mounting portion 11 of Embodiment 1. The waterproofing device 1'' is installed by first tilting the waterproofing device 1'' slightly outward, fitting the mounting portion 11 to the lower frame 22, as shown in Figure 4(a), and then, as shown in Figure 4(b), raising the waterproofing device 1'' which was tilted outward, so that the engaging portion 124 engages with the vertical frame 23 (rib that engages with the edge of the screen door (not shown)), thereby installing the waterproofing device 1''. Furthermore, the engaging portion 124 does not necessarily need to be able to extend or retract.

[0029] In this embodiment, the waterproofing device 1 is shown as being formed as a single water-stopping plate, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the waterproofing device may be composed of multiple water-stopping plates. Figure 5 shows an example of such a thing. The waterproofing device 1-1 has a folding structure that allows it to be folded and unfolded left and right along a vertical axis, by joining two water-stopping plates with a hinge H. A water-stopping structure (such as a tight-fitting structure by providing a sealing member) is provided appropriately at the joint between the two water-stopping plates. As shown in Figures 5(a) and (b), the waterproofing device 1-1 is installed by placing it between the left and right vertical frames 23 in a slightly folded state, and then unfolding it to fit the left and right mounting parts 12 onto the rib-shaped members 231 of the vertical frames 23 (ribs that engage with the door edge of the screen door (not shown)). In other words, the waterproofing device 1-1 is configured such that "the width dimension decreases when folded, and increases when unfolded, resulting in fitting into the frame." The operations shown in Figures 5(a) and (b) are performed when the lower end of the waterproofing device 1-1 is higher than the rail member 221 formed on the lower frame 22. After the operations shown in Figures 5(a) and (b), the mounting portion 11 is fitted by sliding the waterproofing device 1-1 downward, as shown in Figure 5(c), thereby installing the waterproofing device 1-1. According to the waterproof device 1-1 in Figure 5, the same effects as in Embodiment 1 can be obtained, while also providing the advantage of more secure installation of the waterproof device and the ability to make it compact by folding when storing the waterproof device. While this example uses a design with only one folding point, as shown in Figure 6, it is also possible to make the design more compact for storage by adding multiple folding points (for example, by allowing it to fold in an accordion-like fashion).

[0030] When using the folding method shown in Figures 5 and 6, reinforcing members may be provided to maintain the unfolded state. Figure 7 shows an example of such a thing. In the waterproof device 1-1'' shown in Figure 7, the reinforcing members are composed of a bar member 15 that functions as a bolt and a staple member 16. As shown in Figure 7(a), when the waterproof device 1-1'' is folded, the bar member 15 and each staple member 16 are provided on the inner surface of the fold. As shown in Figures 7(b) to (d), after the waterproof device 1-1'' is unfolded, the bar member 15 is slid through each staple member 16, and the bar member 15 is positioned across both sides of the folding point (Figure 7(d)), thereby engaging the bolt and reinforcing the waterproof device 1-1'' to maintain its unfolded state. As shown in Figure 7(a), the provision of the bar member 15 and each staple member 16 on the inner surface of the fold allows for compact storage (folded state). This configuration can also be applied to objects with multiple folding points, such as the water-stopping plate 1-1'' shown in Figure 6. Even when there are multiple folding points, the same configuration as in Figure 7 can be applied to the relationship between adjacent panels, thereby achieving compactness in the storage state (folded state), similar to Figure 7.

[0031] Furthermore, when using the folding method shown in Figures 5 and 6, elastic sealing members may be provided at both ends in the width direction of the waterproofing member, similar to the sealing member 1-223 of Embodiment 2 described below. The width up to the outside of these sealing members at both ends may be made larger than the width inside the frame (the distance between the rib-shaped members 231 of the vertical frames 23 on both sides), so that the waterproofing device is pressed into the frame. The width of the sealing members at both ends is formed to be greater than the width of the inner part of the frame, and the waterproofing device is press-fitted into this configuration. The elastic force of the sealing members generated when the waterproofing device is fitted in acts as a locking force to maintain the mounting state of the waterproofing device and also improves the water-stopping function. It is preferable to use foamed sealing material for sealing members that are designed to deform in this way. Although the locking force described above tends to be lower, the water-stopping function is expected to be improved.

[0032] <Embodiment 2> Figures 8-10 are schematic diagrams showing the waterproofing device of Embodiment 2 according to the present invention installed on a sash window. Figure 8 is a schematic horizontal cross-sectional view, Figure 9 is a schematic vertical cross-sectional view, and Figure 10 is a schematic vertical cross-sectional view at the locations of the first water-stopping plate 1-21 and the second water-stopping plate 1-22, respectively. The waterproofing device 1-2 of this embodiment is a waterproofing device installed on a sash window, similar to Embodiment 1. Since the sash window is the same as in Embodiment 1, the same reference numerals as in Embodiment 1 are used, and their description here is omitted. The waterproofing device 1-2 includes a first water-stopping plate 1-21 installed between the screen door SD3 and the outer sash SD1 (panel body) on the side where the screen door SD3 is located, and a second water-stopping plate 1-22 connected to the first water-stopping plate 1-21 and installed on the side where the screen door SD3 is not located.

[0033] The first water-stopping plate 1-21 has a shape that allows it to be placed between the screen door SD3 and the outer sash SD1, as shown in Figures 8 and 9 (it can be formed in a shape that corresponds to the type of sash). As shown in Figure 8, a sealing member 1-212 extending vertically is formed on the door edge side (left side in Figure 4) of the first water-stopping plate 1-21, and it contacts the vertical frame 23 to perform a water-stopping function (the sealing member 1-212 corresponds to "a sealing member provided in a position opposite the frame"). Also, as shown in Figure 10(b), the lower side of the first water-stopping plate 1-21 is formed in a T-shape (inverted), and a sealing member 1-211 extending in the width direction is formed on its bottom surface, and it contacts the lower frame 22 to perform a water-stopping function (the sealing member 1-211 corresponds to "a sealing member provided in a position opposite the frame"). Each sealing member is made of a material that has water-impermeable properties and elasticity (or water-swellability). The sealing member 1-211 is "a lower end water-stopping part that is inserted between the lower frame of the frame and the lower end of the screen door or shoji (panel) to improve the waterproofness of that area." In this example, the lower part of the first water-stopping plate 1-21 is formed in a T-shape (inverted), allowing it to be attached to either a screen door or a shoji screen (panel), or both. However, for example, the lower part of the first water-stopping plate may be formed in an L-shape (inverted), allowing it to be attached to only one of either a screen door or a shoji screen (panel). Furthermore, as shown in Figure 8, a connecting portion 1-213 for connecting the second water stop plate 1-22 is formed on the door-end side (right side in Figure 8) of the first water stop plate 1-21, and a sealing member 1-222 extending in the vertical direction is provided. Note that the sealing member 1-222 may also be provided on the door-end side (left side in Figure 8) of the second water stop plate 1-22. The outdoor side of the connection part 1-213 has a hook shape that serves as an engaging part for the screen door SD3.

[0034] The second water-stopping plate 1-22 has an attachment portion for the vertical frame 23 on its door-edge side (right side in Figure 8). Similar to the attachment portion 12 of the waterproofing device 1-1 in Figure 3, this attachment portion comprises an outer side wall 121, an inner side wall 123, and a sealing member 122 provided on the inside of the outer side wall 121, and further includes a sealing member 1-223 on the door-edge side of the waterproofing member. Also, as shown in Figure 10(a), a sealing member 1-221 extending in the width direction is formed on the bottom surface of the second water-stopping plate 1-22, and it contacts the lower frame 22 to perform a water-stopping function (the sealing member 1-221 corresponds to the "sealing member provided in a position facing the frame"). The lower side of the second water-stopping plate 1-22 may be provided with a configuration similar to the attachment portion 11 of the waterproofing device 1 in Embodiment 1. In other words, the second water-stopping plate 1-22 may be provided with "a sealing member located opposite the frame and a fitting portion that fits onto a rail member for attaching the screen door to the frame."

[0035] The waterproofing device 1-2 is installed by first installing the first water-stopping plate 1-21. The first water-stopping plate 1-21 is installed by sliding it in the width direction and inserting it between the screen door SD3 and the outer sash SD1. At that time, as shown in Figure 10(b), the lower end sealing member 1-211 is positioned so that it fits between the lower end of the frame member of the screen door or sash and the lower frame 22. This prevents the waterproofing device 1-2 from lifting up and improves the water-stopping effect. In addition, the hook shape of the connecting part 1-213 engages with the tail end side of the screen door SD3, thereby installing the first water-stopping plate 1-21. If the vertical frame of the outer shoji screen SD1 gets in the way during this work (because the vertical frame of the outer shoji screen SD1 and the vertical frame of the screen door SD3 are in opposing positions, resulting in a small gap), it is advisable to work with the outer shoji screen SD1 in a half-open position. Alternatively, the screen door SD3 may be removed and the first water stop plate 1-21 installed (after which the screen door SD3 can be reattached). Once the first water-stopping plate 1-21 is installed, the second water-stopping plate 1-22 is installed. The second water-stopping plate 1-22 is installed by first fitting its door-end mounting portion to the vertical frame 23, and then joining its door-end portion to the connection portion 1-213. The width dimension of the waterproofing device 1-2 is formed to be slightly larger than the distance between the vertical frames 23 on both sides, so that the second water-stopping plate 1-22 is pressed in (the sealing member is elastically deformed). As a result, the sealing members 1-212, 1-222, and 1-223 are slightly compressed and adhere closely to each other, further improving the water-stopping function. The second water-stopping plate 1-22 may simply be press-fitted (without being fixed to the first water-stopping plate 1-21), or it may be fixed to or joined to the first water-stopping plate 1-21. The two may be fixed together, for example, by fastening them together with metal fittings, or by adhesive or tape. The lower end of the second water-stopping plate 1-22 is attached in the same manner as described in Figure 5, when the press-fitting operation described above is performed at a position where the lower end of the waterproofing device is higher than the rail member 221 of the lower frame, and after the press-fitting operation, the waterproofing device 1-2 is slid downward, as in Figure 5(c).

[0036] According to the waterproofing device 1-2 of this embodiment, similar to Embodiment 1, waterproofing measures can be easily and inexpensively implemented on existing sash windows without the need to install special mounting members or the like. Furthermore, while the waterproofing device 1 of Embodiment 1 was designed to be installed after removing the screen door, the waterproofing device 1-2 of this embodiment can be installed with the screen door still in place.

[0037] <Embodiment 3> Figure 11 is a schematic vertical cross-sectional view showing the waterproofing device of Embodiment 3 according to the present invention attached to a sash window (the portion of the sash window where the waterproofing device is provided on the lower side of the sash). The waterproofing device 1-3 of this embodiment is a waterproofing device installed on the sash SD of a sash window (either the outer sash SD1 or the inner sash SD2, or both). The waterproofing device 1-3 is a water-stopping panel that is installed on the exterior side of the shoji screen SD (panel body), with a sealing member 1-31 provided at a position opposite to the frame SD11 of the shoji screen SD (panel body).

[0038] The waterproofing device 1-3 is a roughly rectangular member in front view that covers the lower end of the shoji screen SD (panel body), and sealing members 1-31 are provided on three sides (both sides and the bottom) of the device, at positions facing the frame SD11. The waterproofing device 1-3 is attached to the shoji screen SD by adhesive or by fixing it with connecting fittings, thereby covering the lower end of the shoji screen SD and preventing water from entering. While water can penetrate the shoji screen SD, for example, between the bead SD12 and the glass, if water pressure is applied, such water intrusion can be prevented or reduced by installing the waterproofing device 1-3 on the exterior side of the shoji screen SD (panel body).

[0039] As described above, the waterproofing device 1-3 of this embodiment allows for inexpensive and easy waterproofing of existing sash windows without requiring the installation of special mounting members or the like.

[0040] Figure 12 shows an example of how the waterproofing device of this embodiment is attached to the shoji screen SD. The waterproofing device 1-3' in Figure 12(a) is formed with a slightly larger outer circumference of the water-stopping panel, so that the outer circumference (three or four sides of the water-stopping panel) is used as a mounting area, and the device is attached to the shoji screen SD at this mounting area by screw fastening. Figure 12(b) shows the waterproofing device 1-3 of this embodiment, which is installed using a mounting frame 1-31. The mounting frame 1-31 is a crank-shaped member in cross-section, having a pressing surface 1-311 that holds down the outer periphery of the water-stopping panel and a mounting surface 1-312 that serves as the mounting surface to the shoji screen SD. Three (or four) sides of the waterproofing device 1-3 are screwed to the shoji screen SD by the mounting frame 1-31.

[0041] <Embodiment 4> Figures 13 and 14 are schematic diagrams showing the waterproofing device of Embodiment 4 according to the present invention attached to a sash window, with Figure 13 being a schematic vertical cross-sectional view and Figure 14 being a schematic horizontal cross-sectional view. The waterproofing devices 1-4 of this embodiment are waterproofing devices for waterproofing sash windows, similar to those in Embodiment 1. Since the configuration of the sash window is the same as in Embodiment 1, the same reference numerals as in Embodiment 1 are used, and their description is omitted here.

[0042] The waterproofing device 1-4 is a substantially rectangular member when viewed from the front, and is configured as a hollow member with an opening at its lower end (no bottom surface) by comprising an indoor forming surface 1-41, an outdoor forming surface 1-42, and an upper surface 1-43. As shown in Figure 13, the interior forming surface 1-41 has a crank shape that follows the outer diameter shape of the house from the lower frame 22 to the exterior wall OW (however, it may be formed in a different shape as appropriate depending on the differences in the shape of the house from the lower frame to the exterior wall). The lower side of the interior forming surface 1-41 functions as an attachment part to the exterior wall OW and is attached to the exterior wall OW via the sealing member 1-411. Although this example shows attachment to the exterior wall OW, it may also be attached to the building's foundation (not shown in particular) or to members provided around openings such as base flashing. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 14, both sides of the interior forming surface 1-41 also have a crank shape to conform to the outer diameter shape of the house from the vertical frame 23 to the exterior wall OW (they can be formed into different shapes as appropriate depending on the differences in the shape of the house from the vertical frame to the exterior wall). Both ends of the interior forming surface 1-41 in the width direction function as attachment points to the exterior wall OW and are attached to the exterior wall OW via sealing members 1-441.

[0043] As shown in Figure 14, both ends 1-44 in the width direction of the outdoor forming surface 1-42 also function as attachment points to the exterior wall OW, and are attached to the exterior wall OW via sealing members 1-441 together with the attachment points of the indoor forming surface 1-41 (although simplified in the figure, both ends 1-44 of the outdoor forming surface 1-42 are attached so as to overlap the attachment points on both sides of the indoor forming surface 1-41). As shown in Figure 13, the outdoor forming surface 1-45, located opposite the lower mounting portion of the indoor forming surface 1-41, is configured to be detachably attached to the outdoor forming surface 1-42. A sealing member 1-451 is provided at the joint surface between the outdoor forming surface 1-42 and the outdoor forming surface 1-45. By making the exterior forming surface 1-45 detachable, accessibility for the installation work to the exterior wall at the lower attachment point of the interior forming surface 1-41 is improved, and the vertical length (depth) of the hollow structure is increased.

[0044] According to the waterproofing device 1-4 of this embodiment, since it is configured as a hollow member (inverted box type) with an opening at the lower end, water entering the interior by air pressure is prevented or reduced, and since the waterproofing device is installed so as to surround the sash frame, it is possible to stop water from coming into contact with the sash frame. In this embodiment, the waterproofing device 1-4 is shown as being directly attached to the exterior wall, but it may also be attached to the exterior wall via mounting brackets or other components. For example, a base plate with screw holes for fastening the waterproofing device 1-4 can be attached to the exterior wall in a way that prevents water from seeping in between, and when flooding is expected, the waterproofing device 1-4 can be attached to the base plate in a way that prevents water from seeping in (for example, by fastening it with screws while using a sealing member).

[0045] <Embodiment 5> Figure 15 is a schematic vertical cross-sectional view showing the waterproofing device of Embodiment 5 according to the present invention attached to a sash window. The waterproofing devices 1-5 of this embodiment are waterproofing devices for waterproofing sash windows, similar to those in Embodiment 1. Since the configuration of the sash window is the same as in Embodiment 1, the same reference numerals as in Embodiment 1 are used, and their description is omitted here.

[0046] The waterproofing device 1-5 comprises a main body 1-51 which is a hollow panel body and functions as a floating member, a mounting member 1-52 which is attached to the exterior wall OW and / or the lower frame 22 (or a member provided around the opening such as the foundation or base flashing) and rotatably supports the main body 1-51, and a sealing member 1-53 which is attached to the main body 1-51.

[0047] The main body 1-51 is supported by the mounting member 1-52 so as to be rotatable with the width direction as the axis of rotation, and as shown in Figure 15, it can move from a downward-hanging state to an upright state where it is positioned opposite the lower part of the sash frame. The main body 1-51 is a roughly rectangular member when viewed from the front, and in its upright position, it has a configuration that covers the lower side of the sash frame. In its upright position, it has sealing members 1-53 at the locations facing the sash frame (both sides and the bottom), which stop water from entering the lower side of the sash frame.

[0048] The waterproofing device 1-5 generates buoyancy in the main body 1-51, which is a hollow floating member, when the water level rises during a flood. This causes the main body 1-51 to rotate and move into an upright position, contacting the bottom of the sash frame. In other words, "the waterproofing member is configured to be able to move upward due to the buoyancy generated in the floating member by the rising water level. Normally, the waterproofing member is located at the bottom of the opening, but when the water level rises, it moves upward to cover at least the lower side of the opening." In the waterproofing device 1-5, the sealing member 1-53 is made to adhere tightly to the sash frame by water pressure, so that high water-stopping performance can be obtained as the water level rises.

[0049] As described above, with the waterproofing device 1-5 of this embodiment, the waterproofing member, which is normally located below the sash frame, automatically rises up in the event of flooding to stop water from entering the lower part of the opening. Therefore, it is possible to take measures to stop water from entering even in the event of sudden flooding (reducing problems such as not being able to take measures to stop water in time).

[0050] In this embodiment, the waterproofing member itself functions as a floating member as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the floating member may be configured separately from the waterproofing member. Also, in this embodiment, the movement of the waterproofing member is performed by a rotational motion as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this, and it is sufficient if "the waterproofing member, which is normally located at the bottom of the opening, is configured to cover at least the lower side of the opening by moving upward when the water level rises." Figure 16 shows a waterproof device 1-5-1 as an example of such a device. The waterproofing device 1-5-1 is a substantially rectangular member in front view, and has a configuration that covers the lower side of the sash frame when raised (Figure 16(c)). It has sealing members 1-5-11 at the locations facing the sash frame when raised (both sides and the bottom), a water-stopping member that stops water from entering the lower side of the sash frame, a hollow floating member 1-5-12 provided below the water-stopping member, and a locking member 1-5-13 (angle material) attached to the vertical frame 23 that holds the water-stopping member so that it can slide in the vertical direction. As can be seen from Figure 10, the waterproofing device 1-5-1 generates buoyancy in the floating member 1-5-12 when the water level rises during a flood. This causes the water-stopping member to slide upward, covering the lower part of the sash frame and providing a water-stopping function.

[0051] Although each embodiment has described sliding sash windows, the present invention is not limited to these. For example, the concepts described in each embodiment can be applied to any sliding door type window, in addition to single-hung sash windows. Furthermore, although the invention was described using a sliding glass door as an example, the present invention is not limited to this, and the concepts described in each of the above embodiments can also be applied to waist-high windows and the like.

[0052] Furthermore, while each embodiment uses an example of a waterproofing device that covers the lower side (part of the sash window) of the sash window (opening), the present invention is not limited to this, and may also be designed to cover the entire sash window (opening) (the water-stopping member may be formed to cover the entire sash window).

[0053] Furthermore, in the case of a waterproofing device 1-4 of Embodiment 4, which is attached to an exterior wall or the like so as to cover the outside of the sash window, the sash frame itself does not need to be waterproof. However, if the waterproofing device is in contact with the outer surface of the sash frame, then the sash frame itself must also be waterproof. Figure 17 shows a schematic diagram in which a sealant S is installed at the corner joint between the lower frame 22 and the vertical frame 23 in order to improve the watertightness of the sash frame itself. Since the lower frame 22 and the vertical frame 23 have irregularities due to rail members and the like, it is preferable that the sealant S be made of a highly flexible material such as foam that can absorb these irregularities. By being made of a highly flexible material, it is possible to close the sash (with the sealant S sandwiched between the vertical frame and the sash), which allows the sealant S to adhere more closely to the sash frame and makes the watertight sealing of the joint between the lower frame 22 and the vertical frame 23 more effective. Figure 17 shows an example where sealant S is provided only at the joint between the lower frame 22 and the vertical frame 23, but sealant S may also be provided at the joint between the upper frame 21 and the vertical frame 23. In addition, since drainage holes may be formed in the lower frame 22, it is advisable to provide sealant S to cover these holes. Sealant S may be provided only partially where necessary, or it may be provided over the entire sash frame.

[0054] As mentioned above, the water-stopping member has a hollow panel structure to provide strength to withstand water pressure while also being lightweight. Therefore, it will be subjected to buoyancy as the water level rises during a flood. Accordingly, it is advisable to provide fixing members or engaging parts to prevent the water-stopping member from floating away. Figure 18 shows an example of a waterproofing member that includes an engaging portion 13 that engages with the lower end of the panel (sash) to prevent it from floating. The waterproofing device 1-1'''' in Figure 18 has the same configuration as the waterproofing device 1-1 described in Figure 5, except that it has an engaging portion 13 that engages with the lower end side of the outer sash SD1 and does not have an inner side wall 112 of the mounting portion 11. In the mounting method described in Figures 5(a) and (b), by mounting the engaging portion 13 so that it fits into the lower end of the outer sash SD1, it is possible to prevent the water-stopping member from floating even when subjected to buoyancy due to the rise in water level during floods. The engaging portion 13 may be a rib-shaped member extending in the width direction, or it may be a small piece-shaped projection provided in several (or one) places in the width direction. In this example, the engaging portion is formed on the water-stopping plate (waterproofing member) portion, but depending on differences in the sash frame configuration, it may be formed on the mounting portion, etc. Alternatively, instead of the engaging portion that engages with the lower end of the shoji screen, the waterproofing device may be fixed to the sash window or exterior wall using, for example, a separate fixing bracket or other fixing member, or the waterproofing device may be fixed to the sash window or exterior wall using adhesive tape or the like. Alternatively, instead of an engaging part that engages with the lower end of the shoji screen, an engaging part that engages with a drainage hole formed in the lower frame (each rail member, etc.) may be used. [Explanation of symbols]

[0055] 1...Waterproof device 11...Mounting part 113...Sealing material 1-21...First water barrier 1-211...Lower end water stop part 1-22...Second water barrier 13...Engaging part 1-41...Indoor side forming surface 1-42...Outdoor side forming surface 21... Upper frame (frame body) 22...Bottom frame (frame body) 221... Rail member (rib-shaped member) 23... Vertical frame (frame) SD1, SD2... Shoji (panel type) SD3...screen door OW... Exterior wall

Claims

1. A waterproofing device installed for an opening whose lower end is located higher than the ground, The waterproofing device comprises a frame for installing a panel body in the opening, a mounting portion for attaching the waterproofing device to the panel body or any of the surrounding members of the opening at a position on the exterior side of the panel body, and a waterproofing member that covers at least the lower side of the opening, thereby improving the waterproofing of at least the lower side of the opening. The aforementioned waterproofing member is a water-stopping plate, A sealing member is provided at a position on the water-stopping plate facing the frame, A waterproofing device in which the mounting portion is a fitting portion that fits into the rib-shaped member of the frame.

2. The waterproofing device according to claim 1, wherein the rib-shaped member is a rail member for attaching a screen door, formed on the lower frame of the frame body.

3. A waterproofing device installed for an opening whose lower end is located higher than the ground, The waterproofing device comprises a frame for installing a panel body in the opening, a mounting portion for attaching the waterproofing device to the panel body or any of the surrounding members of the opening at a position on the exterior side of the panel body, and a waterproofing member that covers at least the lower side of the opening, thereby improving the waterproofing of at least the lower side of the opening. The waterproofing device comprises a first water-stopping plate installed between the screen door and the panel body on the side where the screen door is located, and a second water-stopping plate joined to the first water-stopping plate and installed on the side where the screen door is not located.

4. The first water-stopping plate is provided with a lower end water-stopping portion that is inserted between the lower frame of the frame body and the lower end of the screen door or the panel body to improve the waterproofing of that area. The waterproofing device according to claim 3, wherein the second water-stopping plate comprises a sealing member provided at a position opposite to the frame.

5. A waterproofing device installed for an opening whose lower end is located higher than the ground, The waterproofing device comprises a frame for installing a panel body in the opening, a mounting portion for attaching the waterproofing device to the panel body or any of the surrounding members of the opening at a position on the exterior side of the panel body, and a waterproofing member that covers at least the lower side of the opening, thereby improving the waterproofing of at least the lower side of the opening. A waterproofing device in which the waterproofing member is composed of a hollow member having an opening at its lower end.

6. The waterproof device according to claim 5, wherein the mounting portion has an indoor forming surface and an outdoor forming surface, the mounting portion is formed at the lower part of the indoor forming surface, and at least a portion of the outdoor forming surface at a position opposite the mounting portion is configured to be detachable.

7. A waterproofing device installed for an opening whose lower end is located higher than the ground, The waterproofing device comprises a frame for installing a panel body in the opening, a mounting portion for attaching the waterproofing device to the panel body or any of the surrounding members of the opening at a position on the exterior side of the panel body, a waterproofing member that covers at least the lower side of the opening to improve the waterproofing of at least the lower side of the opening, and a floating member that is integrated with or separate from the waterproofing member. The waterproofing member is configured to be able to move upward by the buoyancy generated in the floating member due to the rise in water level. A waterproofing device in which, under normal circumstances, the waterproofing member located at the bottom of the opening is configured to cover at least the lower side of the opening due to upward movement when the water level rises.

8. The waterproof device according to claim 2, further comprising an engaging portion that engages with the lower end of the panel body.

9. A waterproofing device installed for an opening whose lower end is located higher than the ground, The waterproofing device comprises a frame for installing a panel body in the opening, a mounting portion for attaching the waterproofing device to the panel body or any of the surrounding members of the opening at a position on the exterior side of the panel body, and a waterproofing member that covers at least the lower side of the opening, thereby improving the waterproofing of at least the lower side of the opening. A waterproofing device in which the waterproofing member has a foldable structure that can be unfolded, and the width dimension that decreases when folded increases when unfolded, thereby fitting into the frame.

10. The waterproofing device according to claim 9, wherein elastic sealing members are provided at both ends in the width direction of the waterproofing member, and the width up to the outside of the sealing members at both ends is formed to be greater than the width inside the frame, so that the sealing members elastically deform when the waterproofing member is fitted into the frame.

11. A sash equipped with a waterproofing device according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

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