Glass module comprising a glazing unit and a system for attaching the glazing unit to a structure

The glass module with a deformable profile addresses the complexity and time-consuming nature of traditional window installations by allowing for rapid and secure fixation to a structure, eliminating the need for a rigid frame and subsequent sealing steps.

WO2025125660A1PCT designated stage expired Publication Date: 2025-06-19SAINT GOBAIN VITRAGE SA
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/EP2024/086418
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-12-13
Filing Date
2024-12-13
Publication Date
2025-06-19

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing window installation methods, particularly for fixed windows with rigid frames, are complex, time-consuming, and require multiple installation elements, making them unsuitable for rapid assembly in lightweight wooden construction applications.

Method used

A glass module with a deformable profile that surrounds the glazing, allowing the module to be easily inserted into an opening and fixed to the structure using attachment portions and fixing means, eliminating the need for a rigid frame and subsequent sealing steps.

Benefits of technology

The glass module can be installed quickly and simply, reducing assembly time and the need for multiple installation elements, while ensuring a secure and sealed fit without the requirement for drying time associated with gluing.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The present invention further relates to a glass module (4) comprising a glazing unit (40) and an attachment system (5) for attaching the glazing unit (40) to a structure (1) comprising a wall (2) having at least one opening (3), characterised in that the attachment system (5) comprises a profile (6) which, forming a trim surrounding the glass module (4), is capable of deforming when the glass module (4) is inserted into the opening (3), wherein the profile (6) comprises at least one attachment portion (52, 520') which, extending from the profile (6), is configured to allow the glass module (4) to be attached to the structure (1).
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Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Title: Glass module comprising glazing and a system for fixing said glazing to a structure

[0003] The invention relates to a glass module comprising a glazing unit and a system for fixing said glazing unit to a structure. The invention also relates to a structure comprising a wall having an opening into which such a glass module is inserted. The invention finally relates to a method for installing or assembling said glass module in such a structure.

[0004] A structure, such as a building wall, comprising glazing and a frame is known from the state of the art.

[0005] In the case of an opening window, the frame comprises a fixed frame forming a frame integral with the structure and at least one opening formed by a rigid frame surrounding the glazing, the assembly being mounted mobile relative to the fixed frame, in particular in rotation along at least one axis, or even in translation. Generally, the fixed frame is first installed in an opening in a wall of the structure and then, subsequently, the opening is inserted, that is to say the assembly comprising the rigid frame previously assembled with the glazing, such as insulating glazing.

[0006] In the case of a fixed window, the frame also includes a rigid frame which then constitutes an intermediate element between the structure and the glazing. Generally, the fixed window is installed in the wall opening, which includes the rigid frame surrounding the glazing and is fixed to maintain it in its final position of use. At the latest when the window is in its final position, a seal is ensured between the window and the wall delimiting the opening, for example using expanding foam to fill any gaps at the junction of the frame and the wall.

[0007] As is known, there are different ways of installing a window, namely surface-mounted installation, rebate installation and so-called "tunnel" installation. Most of the time, the choice of installation type is determined by the structure, in particular the wall of the building. The present invention relates more particularly to the installation of a glass module comprising glazing in the opening of the wall of a structure, preferably insulating glazing, said glass module occupying a fixed position like a non-opening window and, in comparison with such a traditional window, being further characterized by the absence of a rigid frame surrounding the glazing.

[0008] In a fixed window installation, the insulating glass unit, surrounded by its rigid frame, is inserted into the opening of the structure, after which at least one sealing step must be carried out. It should be noted that such a sealing step is also necessary with the frame of an opening window, which has an identical rigid frame.

[0009] Thus, such an installation has the disadvantage of being complex and lengthy. Indeed, it is estimated that its assembly requires approximately two hours and the intervention of two qualified people. In addition, the process requires the use of various installation elements, the management of the supply of these elements including the rigid frames to obtain the window after assembly of the whole and the management of a stock of parts including the insulating glazing.

[0010] Furthermore, wood is mainly used as a construction material when the structure intended to receive the window is that of a so-called "lightweight" construction, also called prefabricated because it is most often manufactured off-site, and we are then looking even more for solutions allowing simple and rapid assembly for this type of application (compared to traditional on-site construction with masonry).

[0011] To partially overcome these drawbacks, it has already been proposed to implement a method of fixing glazing to a lightweight wooden structure by gluing. More specifically, the wooden structure has a first face and a second face, a wall and an opening, said opening being arranged between the first and second faces. The structure finally comprises glazing, preferably insulating, said insulating glazing comprising at least a first pane and a second pane arranged substantially parallel to each other, said insulating glazing having a first face and a second face, and being remarkable in that the structure comprises an adhesive joint binding the insulating glazing and the wall. The disadvantage of using an adhesive for the direct fixing of the glazing is that this adhesive takes a long time to apply.Indeed, the glue requires careful application around the perimeter of the glazing, it being recognized that the larger the glazing, the longer it takes to apply the glue. In addition, the glue generally requires a certain amount of drying time, during which it is also important to avoid any movement of the structure.

[0012] Gluing is therefore not a satisfactory solution, particularly in the case of lightweight wooden construction structures.

[0013] Summary of the invention

[0014] The aim of the invention is therefore to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art by proposing a glass module comprising glazing which is simple and quick (compared to a conventional fixed window with a rigid frame) to install in a structure, in particular but not exclusively a wooden structure.

[0015] To this end, the invention relates to a glass module comprising a glazing unit and a fixing system for fixing said glazing unit to a structure comprising a wall having at least one opening, characterized in that the fixing system comprises a profile which, forming a trim surrounding said glass module, is capable of deforming when said glass module is inserted into the opening, said profile comprising at least one attachment portion which, extending from said profile, is configured to allow the glass module to be fixed to the structure.

[0016] The present invention advantageously makes it possible to have a glass module which is easily installed thanks to the deformable profile, that is to say a profile capable of compressing when said module is inserted into contact with the structure delimiting the opening in the wall, said glass module according to the invention comprising at least one attachment portion which is capable of being fixed to said structure in a simple manner to guarantee that the glass module is held in place.

[0017] Thanks to the deformable profile, the rigid frame previously used to surround the glazing in order to form a fixed window in particular is advantageously eliminated, as are steps such as sealing the window after installation, so that the installation of a glass module in accordance with the invention is simpler and faster. Advantageously, sealing is obtained directly by simply compressing the deformable profile of the glass module, which then only needs to be fixed securely to the structure to complete installation.

[0018] Advantageously, the installation of the glass module according to the invention is also simple and rapid thanks to the attachment portion that the deformable profile comprises, said attachment portion being fixed to the structure by means of fixing means.

[0019] Advantageously, the use of fixing means such as a screw or a nail makes it possible to immediately fix the glass module to the structure by means of the attachment portion(s); here again, the fixing system according to the invention is simple and rapid, in particular in comparison with gluing which requires drying time before handling.

[0020] According to an exemplary embodiment, the deformable profile of the glass module is made of a polymer material, for example silicone or any other equivalent material.

[0021] Preferably, said deformable profile is obtained by extrusion. The profile is therefore advantageously capable of being cut into several sections of lengths determined according to the dimensions of the glazing and this so as to form said deformable profile surrounding the glazing of the glass module.

[0022] Preferably, the profile sections are assembled prior to its installation with the glazing in order to obtain said deformable profile comprising the attachment portion and then advantageously forming a unitary subassembly with the glazing, the resulting glass module is capable of being handled for example with a view to its transport to the assembly site with the structure, which site can of course be the same as that of the manufacture of the module.

[0023] According to an exemplary embodiment, the deformable profile is capable of cooperating with a surface of the opening in the wall of the structure located opposite in order to ensure a seal between the glass module and the structure.

[0024] Advantageously, air and water tightness around the glass module is obtained directly and immediately by the compression of the deformable profile coming into contact with the structure. According to an exemplary embodiment, the deformable profile comprises retaining means, such as slats, extending projecting from the profile, towards the structure.

[0025] Advantageously, the retaining means such as the slats are capable of compressing in contact with the structure, further facilitating the insertion of the glass module into the opening because they generally have greater flexibility and capacity for deformation under compression than a deformable profile which would lack this flexibility.

[0026] According to an exemplary embodiment, the deformable profile is secured by pinching to said glazing so that said glass module provided with said profile forms a unitary subassembly, in particular capable of being handled.

[0027] Advantageously, the clamping connection of the deformable profile with the glazing is particularly simple and quick to achieve. Thus, no gluing is also used to ensure the connection between the profile and the glazing.

[0028] Advantageously, the deformable profile is configured to exert a pinching force on the glazing in order to be held integral with it, whether the profile has an L-shaped section or even a U-shaped section. The dimensions of the profile are therefore advantageously determined as a function of those of the glazing with which it must be associated in order to form said glass module according to the invention.

[0029] According to a first embodiment, said at least one attachment portion of the module to the structure belongs to an attachment element distinct from the deformable profile, that is to say that said at least one attachment element and the profile constitute two distinct parts capable of being assembled with each other. Consequently, it is furthermore possible to use different materials for each.

[0030] According to this first embodiment, said at least one attachment portion to the structure belongs to an attachment element comprising a first portion which, called the profile attachment portion, is configured to allow said attachment element to be attached to the profile and said second portion which, called the structure attachment portion, is configured to allow said attachment element to be attached to the structure.

[0031] According to an exemplary embodiment, said deformable profile comprises at least a first housing configured to receive the first portion of the attachment element. Advantageously, the first housing has a shape and dimensions complementary to the first portion of the attachment element.

[0032] According to an exemplary embodiment, said first housing of the profile is a hollow or a slot or a groove.

[0033] According to an exemplary embodiment, at least the first portion of the attachment element comprises attachment means which, projecting from at least one of the faces of said first portion, are capable of holding the attachment element secured to the profile by friction.

[0034] Advantageously, the attachment means are formed by spikes or any other equivalent shapes.

[0035] In the case of the first embodiment, the attachment element being made of metal, for example from a steel sheet, the attachment means are then likely to be obtained simply by stamping.

[0036] More particularly, said attachment means make it possible to hold the first portion of the attachment element by friction in said first housing of the deformable profile.

[0037] Alternatively, a similar technical attachment effect is obtained by cooperation of shapes, that is to say by cooperation between two complementary shapes, typically male / female, respectively carried one by the first portion of the attachment element, the other by the profile inside the first housing, for example one of the shapes

[0038] According to an exemplary embodiment, the attachment element further comprises a third portion inserted into at least one second housing arranged in the profile.

[0039] According to an exemplary embodiment, the first portion and / or the second portion and / or the third portion of the attachment element are plates, these plates being joined together.

[0040] Advantageously, said plates or tabs forming the first portion and / or the second portion and / or the third portion of the attachment element are obtained by stamping when the attachment element is made of metal, for example a steel sheet, according to the first embodiment. According to an exemplary embodiment, the first portion and the second portion extend orthogonally to each other.

[0041] According to an exemplary embodiment, the first portion and the third portion extend orthogonally to each other.

[0042] According to an exemplary embodiment, the deformable profile comprises a central part from which at least one branch extends, preferably substantially orthogonally to said central part, said at least one first housing being arranged at the level of said central part.

[0043] According to a first example of profile, the deformable profile has a central part and a branch, in other words the profile has an L-shaped section.

[0044] According to an exemplary embodiment, said at least one second housing is arranged at the level of said at least one branch of the profile.

[0045] According to a second example of profile, the profile comprises two branches to form a U-shaped section profile, said branches being connected to each other by the central part.

[0046] According to an exemplary embodiment, the attachment element is made of a material different from that of the deformable profile, preferably said attachment element is made of metal, for example steel, in particular sheet metal.

[0047] Advantageously, said attachment element is obtained by stamping.

[0048] According to a second embodiment, the attachment element and the profile are not formed by two separate parts, the attachment element is advantageously eliminated.

[0049] According to this second embodiment, said at least one attachment portion to the structure is made in one piece with the profile, that is to say in a single piece, or in other words is monobloc.

[0050] Advantageously, the deformable profile incorporating said at least one attachment portion is obtained by extrusion, made of polymer material.

[0051] Advantageously, the glazing of the glass module according to the invention is an insulating glazing, in particular thermally and advantageously acoustically (sound insulation). Preferably, said insulating glazing of the glass module comprises at least a first pane and a second pane arranged substantially parallel to each other and fixed to a spacer which, extending continuously along their edges, has the function of arranging an air gap between said first and second panes.

[0052] The invention also relates to a structure comprising a wall having an opening into which a glass module according to the invention is inserted, said glass module being inserted into the opening of the wall of the structure by compressing the deformable profile of the glass module and fixed to the structure at said at least one attachment portion by means of fixing means, said at least one attachment portion to the structure preferably comprising at least one hole intended to be passed through by one of said fixing means such as a screw or a nail.

[0053] The invention finally relates to a method of installing a glass module according to the invention in an opening in a wall of a structure, said method consisting of:

[0054] Provide glazing;

[0055] Provide a deformable profile comprising at least one attachment portion to the structure extending from said profile and fix it to the glazing to form a glass module;

[0056] Insert the glass module into the wall opening.

[0057] Advantageously, the method comprises a step consisting, after its insertion into said opening, in fixing said glass module to the structure by means of said at least one attachment portion, preferably using fixing means such as a screw or a nail.

[0058] Description of the drawings

[0059] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the following description of particular embodiments, given as simple illustrative and non-limiting examples, and the appended figures, for which: Figure 1 schematically illustrates a sectional view of examples of glazing capable of being used to obtain a glass module according to the invention; Figure 2 schematically illustrates a front view of a structure comprising a wall having an opening in which a glass module according to the invention is intended to be inserted; Figure 3 schematically illustrates a sectional view of such a structure comprising a glass module according to the invention, without detailed representation of the fixing system; Figure 4 schematically illustrates a view of an attachment element according to an example of a first embodiment of the invention;Figure 5 schematically illustrates a view of the attachment element and the deformable profile forming the attachment system according to the example of Figure 4 of the first embodiment of the invention; Figures 6 to 8 schematically illustrate partial views of a glass module according to other examples of the attachment system with an L-shaped or U-shaped profile and an attachment element according to the first embodiment of the invention; Figures 9 to 11 schematically illustrate views of an alternative embodiment of the attachment element according to the first embodiment of the invention, said attachment element comprising a third portion; Figures 12 and 13 schematically illustrate a sectional view of a glass module fixed to a structure with a attachment system according to the example or the alternative of the first embodiment of the invention;Figure 14 schematically illustrates a sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the deformable profile intended to be assembled by pinching with a glazing to obtain a glass module according to the invention, said profile comprising attachment means formed by slats extending in projection from the central part; Figure 15 schematically illustrates a sectional view of a second embodiment of the invention in which the fixing system comprises a deformable profile integrating the attachment portion to the structure which is made from a single piece with said profile. The different elements illustrated by the figures are not necessarily represented to actual scale, the emphasis being more on the representation of the general operation of the invention.;

[0060] Detailed description

[0061] In the embodiment(s) of the invention, a glazing 40 is described comprising at least one or more panes or even sheets of glass assembled to form a laminate.

[0062] Advantageously, the 40 glazing is an insulating glazing such as double glazing, or even triple glazing. Figure 1 illustrates on the left a single or monolithic pane, in the center a laminated glazing and on the right a double glazing.

[0063] Preferably, said insulating glazing 40 intended to form a glass module 4 according to the invention is a double glazing comprising at least a first pane and a second pane arranged substantially parallel to one another and fixed to a spacer which, extending continuously along their edges, has the function of arranging an air gap between said first and second panes.

[0064] Alternatively, the 40 insulating glazing is triple glazing.

[0065] In such double or triple insulating glazing, each pane may be monolithic, i.e. made up of a single sheet of material, or be composite, i.e. made up of several sheets of material between which at least one interlayer of adhesive material is inserted, in the case of laminated glazing.

[0066] The sheet(s) of material may be mineral, in particular glass, for example having undergone annealing or tempering, or organic, in particular plastic such as polyvinyl butyral. The interlayer preferably contains at least one thermoplastic plastic, preferably polyvinyl butyral (PVB), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), and / or polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0067] However, the thermoplastic interlayer may also contain, for example, polyurethane (PU), polypropylene (PP), polyacrylate, polyethylene (PE), polycarbonate (PC), polymethyl methacrylate, polyvinyl chloride, polyacetate resin, casting resins, acrylates, fluorinated ethylene-propylene, polyvinyl fluoride and / or ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene, or copolymers or mixtures thereof. The thermoplastic interlayer may be formed from one or more superimposed thermoplastic films.

[0068] Figures 2 and 3 respectively illustrate a perspective view, in three dimensions (3D), and a sectional view of a structure 1 for implementing the invention.

[0069] Preferably, the structure 1 is a wooden structure belonging to a light or prefabricated construction.

[0070] The structure 1 comprises a wall 2 having at least one opening 3, here of substantially rectangular shape. In this opening 3, a glass module 4 according to the invention is capable of being inserted according to a method which will be described later. Preferably, the glass module 4 comprises an insulating glazing 40 as described previously with reference to FIG. 1.

[0071] The glass module 4 comprising the glazing 40 is intended to be inserted into the opening 3 of the wall 2 of the structure using a fixing system 5.

[0072] According to a characteristic of the invention, the fixing system 5 comprises a profile 6 which, forming a trim surrounding said glass module 4, is capable of deforming when said glass module 4 is inserted into the opening 3.

[0073] Advantageously, the profile 6 is capable of being compressed when the glass module 4 is put in place and then remains so during use.

[0074] According to another characteristic, the deformable profile comprises at least one attachment portion which, extending from said profile 6, is configured to allow the glass module 4 to be fixed to the structure 1.

[0075] In a first embodiment of the invention, the fastening system 5 comprises at least one attachment element 50 as visible in FIG. 4, said attachment element 50 having an L shape.

[0076] As indicated, in addition to said attachment element 50, the attachment system 5 further comprises a profile 6. This profile 6 is arranged to surround the glazing 40. The attachment system 5 is designed so that said attachment element 50 and the profile 6 cooperate together. The deformable profile 6 is made of a polymer material, for example silicone, preferably said profile 6 is obtained by extrusion.

[0077] Advantageously, the deformable profile 6 is capable of cooperating with a surface of the opening 3 of the wall 2 of the structure 1 located opposite in order to ensure a seal between the glass module 4 and the structure 1.

[0078] Preferably, the deformable profile 6 comprises retaining means 7, such as strips 70, extending projecting from the profile 6, in the direction of the structure 1. As illustrated in Figures 14 and 15, the retaining means may extend projecting from one or more parts of the profile.

[0079] According to an important characteristic, the deformable profile 6 is secured by pinching to said glazing 40 so that said glass module 4 provided with said profile 6 forms a unitary subassembly, in particular capable of being handled.

[0080] According to the embodiments, the profile 6 has a U-shaped or L-shaped section, that is to say that the profile 6 comprises a central part 61 from which at least one branch 62 extends, preferably substantially orthogonal to said central part 61 as visible in FIG. 5. This U-shaped or L-shaped section of the profile 6 makes it possible to at least partially enclose the glazing 40 (case of an L-shaped section), or even completely (case of a U-shaped section) by exerting a pinching force on it.

[0081] In a first embodiment of the fixing system 5, said at least one attachment portion 52 of the glass module 4 to the structure 1 belongs to an attachment element 50.

[0082] The attachment element 50 - also called a "clip" - functionally comprises at least two portions. The attachment element 50 comprises a first portion 51 which, called the attachment portion to the profile 6, is configured to allow said attachment element 50 to be attached to the profile 6 and said second portion 52 which, called the attachment portion to the structure 1, is configured to allow said attachment element 50 to be attached to the structure 1.

[0083] Preferably, the attachment element 50 is made of a material different from that of the deformable profile 6, preferably said attachment element 50 is made of metal, for example steel. The attachment element 50 is obtained by stamping or obtained by folding and cutting an initially flat or substantially flat sheet.

[0084] The first portion 51 and the second portion 52 are in the form of plates 510, 520. These plates 510, 520 are integral to form said attachment element 50. These plates 510, 520 are arranged to extend orthogonally. These plates 510, 520 are preferably flat or substantially flat.

[0085] The profile 6 is configured to allow said attachment element 50 to be inserted therein.

[0086] For this purpose, the profile 6 comprises at least one housing 63, called the first housing 63, in which at least a part of the attachment element 50 is inserted as visible in figures 5 and 6. This housing 63 comprises a groove, a slot or a hollow arranged in said profile 6.

[0087] In the case of a groove or slot, the fastening element 50 is inserted into said groove or slot forming said housing 63. This insertion is done by the first portion 51 of the fastening element 50. The slot is such that the fastening element 50 is held in the slot naturally. It is understood from this that the first portion 51 is inserted by force and is arranged in the housing 63.

[0088] In a variant, the first portion 51 comprises attachment means formed for example by reliefs to improve the retention of the attachment element 50. These reliefs are for example spikes or points added or made from the same material, i.e. in one piece, with said first portion 51.

[0089] In the case of a hollow, this is such that the first portion 51 of the attachment element 50 is placed there. The fixing is done by screwing or any other means. It is then understood that the first portion 51 is inserted between the profile 6 and the structure 1 once the glass module 4 is installed.

[0090] The attachment element 50 is placed in the slot or groove of the profile 6 so that the second portion 52 extends outside the glazing 40, projecting outside the glass module 4, as visible in figures 7 and 8.

[0091] Preferably, the profile 6 comprises several housings 63, such as grooves or slots, distributed along its length. Even more preferably, the profile 6 comprises a single housing 63 extending over the entire length of said profile 6. This single housing 63 makes it possible to position the attachment element(s) 50 as required, with free positioning or even spacing.

[0092] The glass module 4 comprises at least one, preferably at least two attachment elements 50. In the case of two attachment elements 50, these are preferably arranged in opposite positions.

[0093] In an even more advantageous configuration, the glazing 40 is arranged to have a fastening element 50 on each side, preferably two fastening elements 50 per side. This configuration makes it possible to ensure good fixing of said glazing 40 since the fixing forces are distributed over the different sides of said glazing 40.

[0094] The installation of glass module 4 on structure 1 includes the following steps.

[0095] A first step consists of providing the glazing 40. It is understood by this that the glazing 40 is, in the case of a glazing 40 comprising multiple sheets, assembled. It is also understood that the glass sheets are assembled by a peripheral part (spacer) or by an interlayer film.

[0096] In a second step, the fixing system 5 is provided, i.e. the deformable profile 6 and the attachment elements 50. The number of attachment elements 50 used depends on the size of the glazing 40 and the configuration of said attachment elements 50.

[0097] Indeed, if the attachment elements 50 have a reduced length, at most 5 cm, then several attachment elements 50 per side of the glazing are arranged. On the contrary, if the attachment elements 50 have a length of 50 cm with several plates 520 for attachment to the structure 1, only one attachment element 50 per side is possible.

[0098] In a third step, profile 6 is placed on glass module 4.

[0099] Advantageously, the profile 6 exerts a pinching force on the glazing 40 so as to obtain a glass module 4 constituting a manipulable, transportable subassembly.

[0100] In a fourth step, the attachment elements 50 are associated with the glazing 40. It is then understood that the first portion 51 of each attachment element 50 is associated with the profile 6, for example the first portion 51 of the attachment element 50 is force-fitted in the housing 63 such as a slot in the profile 6.

[0101] The assembly of the attachment elements 50 with the glazing 40 is carried out according to the future assembly with the structure 1.

[0102] Indeed, the plates 520 forming the second portion 52 protrude relative to the periphery of the glazing 40 so that, during assembly, the plates 520 forming the second portion 52 will come into contact with the structure 1.

[0103] However, a 40 glazing composed of two sheets of glass can be arranged to have different sheets of glass with one sheet of glass intended to be on the exterior side.

[0104] In this case, the attachment elements 50 must be positioned accordingly with the plate 520 forming the second portion 52.

[0105] In a fifth step, the glass module 4 (i.e. the glazing 40 associated with the attachment elements 50) is inserted into the opening 3 of the structure 1 as visible in Figure 12. The insertion is done from the outside or from the inside. This insertion depends on the configuration of the glass module 4 and in particular on the position of the plates 520 forming the second portion 52.

[0106] Insertion into the opening 3 is done by the face of the glazing furthest from the fixing plates. Insertion is done by pushing the glass module 4 into the opening 3 or by pulling. Insertion is blocked by deformation of the profile 6 and by the plate(s) 520 forming the second portion 52 which respectively come into contact with the structure 1.

[0107] The glass module 4 is inserted into the opening 3 of the wall 2 of the structure 1 by compressing the deformable profile 6 of the glass module 4 and then fixed to the structure 1 at the level of said at least one attachment portion 52 by means of fixing means 8.

[0108] In a sixth step, the glass module 4 is thus fixed to the structure 1 in order to secure its position. For this, fixing means 8 are used such as a screw or a nail (represented schematically by an arrow in Figure 5).

[0109] Preferably and as illustrated in Figure 5, said at least one attachment portion 52 to the structure 1 comprises at least one hole 58 intended to be passed through by one of said fixing means 8. Although not systematically shown in all the figures, the hole 58 like the fixing means 8 are likely to be advantageously implemented in the different examples or variant embodiments.

[0110] In a variant, the structure 1 (the wall 2) comprises hollows arranged at the contact locations between said structure 1 and the plates of the attachment element

[0111] 50. This variant makes it possible to make the fixing plates flush once the glass module 4 is in place.

[0112] In a variant visible in figures 9 and 10, the attachment element 50 further comprises a third portion 53. This third portion 53 extends from the first portion

[0113] 51. This third portion 53 preferably extends orthogonally to the first portion 51. This third portion 53 extends in a direction opposite to the second portion 52. This third portion 53 is arranged to be inserted into the profile 6. For this, the profile 6 is provided with a second housing 65 in which the third portion 53 is inserted as visible in FIG. 11. This third portion 53 makes it possible to improve the retention of the attachment element 50 with the profile 6 by providing additional anchoring as visible in FIG. 13.

[0114] The second housing 65 is arranged at the level of the profile 6.

[0115] In a first embodiment, the second housing 65 is arranged at the level of the main portion 61. More particularly, the second housing 65 is contiguous to the housing 63. The second housing 65 extends orthogonally to the first housing 63.

[0116] In a second embodiment, the second housing 65 is arranged on a branch 62 of the profile 6. It is then understood that the profile 6 comprises a second branch 62 so that said profile 6 has a U-shaped section. This second housing 65 is arranged to allow the insertion of the third portion 53 of the attachment element 50 when the first portion 51 thereof is inserted into the first housing 63.

[0117] The second housing 65 is in the form of a slot or hollow.

[0118] In a second embodiment, said attachment portion to the structure 1 and the profile 6 form a single piece and not two separate pieces as with the attachment element 50 in the first embodiment described previously. According to this second embodiment, said at least one attachment portion 520' to the structure 1 is made integrally with the profile 6, i.e. in a single piece.

[0119] Advantageously, the profile 6 comprises, at specific points, extensions forming as many attachment portions 520' of the glass module 4 to the structure 1.

[0120] As will be understood, the attachment portion 520' has the same function - and for example shape - as the plates 520 forming the second portion 52 of the attachment element 50 in the first mode.

[0121] Such an attachment portion 520' to the structure 1 made from the same material as the profile 6 is more particularly visible in figure 15.

[0122] Alternatively, a fastening element 50 according to the first embodiment is overmolded in the profile 6. In this case, the profile 6 is made of a molding material such as a plastic or a resin or a polymer. This embodiment makes it possible to provide additional rigidity locally, in particular at the level of the plates 520. The fastening element 50 is then made of a material that is more rigid than that of the profile, such as a polymer, a plastic, wood, a metal, a metal alloy, or a composite material.

[0123] In a variant visible in figure 14, the profile 6 comprises retaining means 7. These retaining means 7 comprise slats 70 extending from the profile 6, in the direction of the structure 1. The slats 70 are configured to provide additional retention of the glass module 4 in the opening 3 of the structure 1.

[0124] As illustrated in Figure 14, the strips 70 forming the retaining means 7 extend from the central portion 61.

[0125] Of course, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated example but is susceptible to various variants and modifications which will appear to those skilled in the art.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Glass module (4) comprising a glazing (40) and a fixing system (5) for fixing said glazing (40) to a structure (1) comprising a wall (2) having at least one opening (3), characterized in that the fixing system (5) comprises a profile (6) which, forming a trim surrounding said glass module (4), is capable of deforming when said glass module (4) is inserted into the opening (3), said profile (6) comprising at least one attachment portion (52, 520') which, extending from said profile (6), is configured to allow the glass module (4) to be fixed to the structure (1).

2. Glass module (4) according to claim 1, in which the deformable profile (6) is made of a polymer material, for example silicone, preferably said profile (6) is obtained by extrusion.

3. Glass module (4) according to claim 1 or 2, in which the deformable profile (6) is capable of cooperating with a surface of the opening (3) of the wall (2) of the structure (1) located opposite in order to ensure a seal between the glass module (4) and the structure (1).

4. Glass module (4) according to one of claims 1 to 3, in which the deformable profile (6) comprises retaining means (7), such as slats (70), extending projecting from the profile (6), in the direction of the structure (1).

5. Glass module (4) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, in which the deformable profile (6) is secured by pinching to said glazing (40) so that said glass module (4) provided with said profile (6) forms a unitary subassembly, in particular capable of being handled.

6. Glass module (4) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, in which said at least one attachment portion (52) to the structure (1) belongs to an attachment element (50) comprising a first portion (51) which, called the attachment portion to the profile (6), is configured to allow said attachment element (50) to be attached to the profile (6) and said second portion (52) which, called the attachment portion to the structure (1), is configured to allow said attachment element (50) to be attached to the structure (1).

7. Glass module (4) according to claim 6, in which said deformable profile (6) comprises at least one first housing (63) configured to receive the first portion (51) of the attachment element (50).

8. Glass module (4) according to claim 7, in which said first housing (63) of the profile (6) is a hollow or a slot or a groove.

9. Glass module (4) according to any one of claims 6 to 8, in which at least the first portion (51) of the attachment element (50) comprises attachment means such as pins which, projecting from at least one of the faces of said first portion (51), are capable of holding by friction the attachment element (50) integral with the profile (6), in particular thanks to said attachment means of holding by friction (or cooperation of shapes) the first portion (51) of the attachment element (50) in said housing (63) of the deformable profile (6).

10. Glass module (4) according to any one of claims 6 to 9, in which the attachment element (50) further comprises a third portion (53) inserted into at least one second housing (65) arranged in the profile (6).

11. Glass module (4) according to any one of claims 6 to 10, in which the first portion (51) and / or the second portion (52) and / or the third portion (53) of the attachment element (50) are plates, these plates being joined together.

12. Glass module (4) according to claim 11, wherein the first portion (51) and the second portion (52) extend orthogonally to each other.

13. Glass module (4) according to claim 11 or 12, in which the first portion (51) and the third portion (53) extend orthogonally to each other.

14. Glass module (4) according to any one of claims 7 to 13, in which the deformable profile (6) comprises a central part (61) from which at least one branch (62) extends, preferably substantially orthogonal to said central part (61), said at least one first housing (63) being arranged at the level of said central part (61).

15. Glass module (4) according to claim 14 taken in combination with claim 10, wherein said at least one second housing (65) is arranged at the level of said at least one branch (62) of the profile (6).

16. Glass module (4) according to claim 14 or 15, in which the profile (6) comprises two branches (62) to form a U-shaped section profile, said branches (62) being connected to each other by the central part (61).

17. Glass module (4) according to claim 6, in which the attachment element (50) is made of a material different from that of the deformable profile (6), preferably said attachment element (50) is made of metal, for example steel, in particular obtained by stamping.

18. Glass module (4) according to one of claims 1 to 5, in which said at least one attachment portion (520') to the structure (1) is made integrally with the profile (6), i.e. in a single piece.

19. Glass module (4) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the glazing (40) is an insulating glazing, preferably said insulating glazing (40) of the glass module (4) comprises at least a first pane and a second pane arranged substantially parallel to each other and fixed to a spacer which, extending continuously along their edges, has the function of providing an air gap between said first and second panes.

20. Structure (1) comprising a wall (2) having an opening (3) into which a glass module (4) according to any one of the preceding claims is inserted, said glass module (4) being inserted into the opening (3) of the wall (2) of the structure (1) by compressing the deformable profile (6) of the glass module (4) and fixed to the structure (1) at the level of said at least one attachment portion (520') by means of fixing means (8), said at least one attachment portion (520') to the structure (1) preferably comprising at least one hole (58) intended to be passed through by one of said fixing means such as a screw or a nail.

21. Method for installing a glass module (4) according to any one of claims 1 to 19 in an opening (3) of a wall (2) of a structure (1), said method consisting of: - Provide glazing (40); - Provide a deformable profile (6) comprising at least one attachment portion (52, 520') to the structure (1) extending from said profile (6) and fix it to the glazing (40) to form a glass module (4); - Insert the glass module (4) into the opening (3) of the wall (2).

22. Method according to claim 21, in which the method comprises a step consisting, after its insertion into said opening (3), in fixing said glass module (4) to the structure (1) by means of said at least one attachment portion (52, 520'), preferably using fixing means such as a screw or a nail.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • seal for windows or windows

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