CA1191779A - Space enclosure system - Google Patents
Space enclosure systemInfo
- Publication number
- CA1191779A CA1191779A CA000394067A CA394067A CA1191779A CA 1191779 A CA1191779 A CA 1191779A CA 000394067 A CA000394067 A CA 000394067A CA 394067 A CA394067 A CA 394067A CA 1191779 A CA1191779 A CA 1191779A
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- panels
- row
- panel
- rows
- closed position
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Abstract
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
This invention relates to a system for enclosing with wall panels a space such as a porch or balcony. The invention allows a person to unfold or slide wall sections to enclose a space where there is existing a horizontal base and an overhanging ceiling, e.g.
an overhanging roof spaced a distance thereabove, and to fold or slide those wall sections back into storage position for example to form a railing of the balcony or porch. The system comprises two or more horizontal rows of a plurality of wall panels. The panels are to be secured when in closed position about the portion of the base and ceiling to be enclosed. Extending between the base and ceiling, means are provided to secure the bottom row of panels in position about the portion of the base to be enclosed. Also provided are means to hold the other row or rows of panels with respect to the bottom row. This permits movement of the panels in the former from storage position beside and adjacent panels in the latter to closed position thereabove. The panels in the other row or rows of panels meet a portion of the ceiling to achieve the desired enclosure. Releasable locking means associated with the panels to maintain the wall panels securely in closed position are provided.
This invention relates to a system for enclosing with wall panels a space such as a porch or balcony. The invention allows a person to unfold or slide wall sections to enclose a space where there is existing a horizontal base and an overhanging ceiling, e.g.
an overhanging roof spaced a distance thereabove, and to fold or slide those wall sections back into storage position for example to form a railing of the balcony or porch. The system comprises two or more horizontal rows of a plurality of wall panels. The panels are to be secured when in closed position about the portion of the base and ceiling to be enclosed. Extending between the base and ceiling, means are provided to secure the bottom row of panels in position about the portion of the base to be enclosed. Also provided are means to hold the other row or rows of panels with respect to the bottom row. This permits movement of the panels in the former from storage position beside and adjacent panels in the latter to closed position thereabove. The panels in the other row or rows of panels meet a portion of the ceiling to achieve the desired enclosure. Releasable locking means associated with the panels to maintain the wall panels securely in closed position are provided.
Description
BACKGROUN[) OF TIIE INVENTION
This invention relates to a system for enclosing with walls a space such as a porch or balcony, and more particularly relates to a plurality of joined wall panels which may be elevated upwards from stored position, to form a wall enclosing that space.
In colder climates, open balconies and porches are for most practical purposes unusable during the winter months or d~lring inclement weather. With growing costs of energy and accommodation, there is an increasing practicality in converting such exterior surface areas of one's house or apartment to space which can be enclosed, as required, to permit its use in all seasons and weather.
U.S. Patent No. 3,750,351 of Greenburg, issued August 7, - 1973~ describes a portable balcony which can be used as a trailer.
Neither this U.S. patent nor any other prior art devices of which I
am aware provides a unitary mechanically collapsible building structure capable of temporarily enclosing a balcony or porch.
It is an object of the present invention to convert an open space such as a balcony or porch, into an enclosed area, so that, for example, a sunroom or greenhouse may be provided or, at the very least, another room may be created. It is a further object of the present invention to provide such a system for enclosing such a space which may readily fold up to return the space to its open state.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to a system for enclosing with wall panels a space such as a porch or balcony. The invention allows a person to fold or slide wall sections to enclose a balcony or porch '7~3 a~s re~luired, and to foLd or slide them hack into storage position, for example forming a rail-ing For the balcony or porch. The system is intended for open spaces Lncluding balconies or porches, where there is a horizontal base section and an overhead ceiling section e.g. an overhanging roof spaced a distance tllereabove. The system comprises two or more horizontal rows of a plurality of wall panels.
The panels are to be secured when in closed position about the portion of the base and ceiling to be enclosed. Extending between the base and ceiling, means are provided to secure the bottom row of panels in position about the portion of the base to be enclosed.
Also provided are means to hold the other row or rows of panels with respect to the bottom row. This permits movement of the panels ln the former from storage position beside and adjacent panels in the latter to closed position thereabove. The panels in the other row or rows of panels meet a portion of the ceiling to achieve thc desired enclosure. Releasable locking means associated with the panels to maintain the wall panels securely in closed position are providedO
The device according to the present invention may be made up of transparent wall panels or wall panels having transparent sections enabling light to enter the enclosed area so that, for example, a greenhouse or sunroom may be provided. The wall panels may be appropriately insulated to assist in retention of heat within the enclosed area when the walls are in extended position.
The invention allows Eor the wall panels to be stored as a railing circumscribing the space to be enclosed and the railing to be unfolded or slid into a wall from the inside or outside of the space.
;'7'~
It allows Eor rows of panels to be unfolded or Eolded or slid as en-tire sections by powered means, The rows of panels may be relatlvely narrow and light, and may be folded manually as such. Many diEEerent materials may be used in the construction of the invention, for example, plate glass in a wood or metal frame, or Styrofoam (trade mark) encased ln aluminum. An additional facing member, secured to the overhead or base section as the case may be, into which the free end of the other end panels of each row fits, enables the invention to Eit a balcony or porch of any shape or size. A retractable screen maybe incorporated to enclose that space left open when the panels are in a stored position.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAI~INGS
Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and upon referring to the drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a perspective view, from the interior, of a porch area which has been enclosed with a system of panels according to an example embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 2 is a perspective view, in detail, of the channel member within which the upper panels of the embodiment of Figure 1 slides;
Figure 3 is an enlarged perspective view, in partial section, illustrating an example embodiment of a locking mechanism to hold the channel members and sliding panels of Figure 1 in position;
Figures 4 and 5 are perspective views from the interior of a porch of further example embodiments of systems according to the present invention;
Figure 6 is a plan view oE the upper edges oE panels of the system of Figure 4, in closecl position;
Figure 7 is a side view, in section, of the system illustrated in Figure 4, illustrating the manner in which the panels Eold for storage;
Figure 8 is a enlarged partial side section view, of the lower panel of the system illustrated in Figure 4, illustrating a further embodiment thereof;
Figure 9 is a enlarged perspective view, from the inside, of the detail of construction of the system illustrated in Figure 5, in the vicinity indicated by arrow F;
Figure 10 is a partial view, in perspective, of an further example embodiment of a system according to the present invention illustrating an example of a mechanical means for raising and lowering the panels; and Figure 11 is a perspective view of a slotted facing member according to the invention.
While the invention will be described in connection with these example embodiments, it will be understood that it is not intended to limit the invention to such embodiments. On the contrary, it is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications and equivalents as may be included with the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
In the following description similar references have been given similar reference numerals.
Figure ] is a perspectlve v-Lew, Erom the interior, oE a porch area whicll has been enclosed wLth a system of panels accordLng to the present invention. In Flgure 1, panels 2 are provided, vertically slidable upwards between the I-shaped channels 4. Panels
This invention relates to a system for enclosing with walls a space such as a porch or balcony, and more particularly relates to a plurality of joined wall panels which may be elevated upwards from stored position, to form a wall enclosing that space.
In colder climates, open balconies and porches are for most practical purposes unusable during the winter months or d~lring inclement weather. With growing costs of energy and accommodation, there is an increasing practicality in converting such exterior surface areas of one's house or apartment to space which can be enclosed, as required, to permit its use in all seasons and weather.
U.S. Patent No. 3,750,351 of Greenburg, issued August 7, - 1973~ describes a portable balcony which can be used as a trailer.
Neither this U.S. patent nor any other prior art devices of which I
am aware provides a unitary mechanically collapsible building structure capable of temporarily enclosing a balcony or porch.
It is an object of the present invention to convert an open space such as a balcony or porch, into an enclosed area, so that, for example, a sunroom or greenhouse may be provided or, at the very least, another room may be created. It is a further object of the present invention to provide such a system for enclosing such a space which may readily fold up to return the space to its open state.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to a system for enclosing with wall panels a space such as a porch or balcony. The invention allows a person to fold or slide wall sections to enclose a balcony or porch '7~3 a~s re~luired, and to foLd or slide them hack into storage position, for example forming a rail-ing For the balcony or porch. The system is intended for open spaces Lncluding balconies or porches, where there is a horizontal base section and an overhead ceiling section e.g. an overhanging roof spaced a distance tllereabove. The system comprises two or more horizontal rows of a plurality of wall panels.
The panels are to be secured when in closed position about the portion of the base and ceiling to be enclosed. Extending between the base and ceiling, means are provided to secure the bottom row of panels in position about the portion of the base to be enclosed.
Also provided are means to hold the other row or rows of panels with respect to the bottom row. This permits movement of the panels ln the former from storage position beside and adjacent panels in the latter to closed position thereabove. The panels in the other row or rows of panels meet a portion of the ceiling to achieve thc desired enclosure. Releasable locking means associated with the panels to maintain the wall panels securely in closed position are providedO
The device according to the present invention may be made up of transparent wall panels or wall panels having transparent sections enabling light to enter the enclosed area so that, for example, a greenhouse or sunroom may be provided. The wall panels may be appropriately insulated to assist in retention of heat within the enclosed area when the walls are in extended position.
The invention allows Eor the wall panels to be stored as a railing circumscribing the space to be enclosed and the railing to be unfolded or slid into a wall from the inside or outside of the space.
;'7'~
It allows Eor rows of panels to be unfolded or Eolded or slid as en-tire sections by powered means, The rows of panels may be relatlvely narrow and light, and may be folded manually as such. Many diEEerent materials may be used in the construction of the invention, for example, plate glass in a wood or metal frame, or Styrofoam (trade mark) encased ln aluminum. An additional facing member, secured to the overhead or base section as the case may be, into which the free end of the other end panels of each row fits, enables the invention to Eit a balcony or porch of any shape or size. A retractable screen maybe incorporated to enclose that space left open when the panels are in a stored position.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAI~INGS
Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and upon referring to the drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a perspective view, from the interior, of a porch area which has been enclosed with a system of panels according to an example embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 2 is a perspective view, in detail, of the channel member within which the upper panels of the embodiment of Figure 1 slides;
Figure 3 is an enlarged perspective view, in partial section, illustrating an example embodiment of a locking mechanism to hold the channel members and sliding panels of Figure 1 in position;
Figures 4 and 5 are perspective views from the interior of a porch of further example embodiments of systems according to the present invention;
Figure 6 is a plan view oE the upper edges oE panels of the system of Figure 4, in closecl position;
Figure 7 is a side view, in section, of the system illustrated in Figure 4, illustrating the manner in which the panels Eold for storage;
Figure 8 is a enlarged partial side section view, of the lower panel of the system illustrated in Figure 4, illustrating a further embodiment thereof;
Figure 9 is a enlarged perspective view, from the inside, of the detail of construction of the system illustrated in Figure 5, in the vicinity indicated by arrow F;
Figure 10 is a partial view, in perspective, of an further example embodiment of a system according to the present invention illustrating an example of a mechanical means for raising and lowering the panels; and Figure 11 is a perspective view of a slotted facing member according to the invention.
While the invention will be described in connection with these example embodiments, it will be understood that it is not intended to limit the invention to such embodiments. On the contrary, it is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications and equivalents as may be included with the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
In the following description similar references have been given similar reference numerals.
Figure ] is a perspectlve v-Lew, Erom the interior, oE a porch area whicll has been enclosed wLth a system of panels accordLng to the present invention. In Flgure 1, panels 2 are provided, vertically slidable upwards between the I-shaped channels 4. Panels
2 are slid upwards till they meet a set of Eixed panels 6 or a facing member 7 as illustrated in Figure 11 and which will be subsequently described. These panels 6 are attached to the ceiling 20 and to the corner posts 10. The vertically slidable panels 2 are locked to fixed panels 6 by locking device 12.
In the summertime the I-shaped posts or channels 4, and the upper panels 2 are lowered to be stored adjacent to lower panels 8 in the form of a railing, shown generally by arrow A. The railing is secured in a vertical position by post 10. Pully 30 and cable 32 help to lift panel 2 upwards. Cables 32 can be detached from panels 2 when in lowered storage position.
Figure 2 is a perspective view in detail, from outside of the balcony, of the channel member within which the upper panels of the embodiment of Figure 1 slides. In Figure 2 16 and 18 are brackets which are permanently attached to the lower panels 8.
Channel 4 slides vertically upwards between brackets 16 and 18. When channel 4 is in an elevated position, the panels 2 are held laterally in the lowered position by brackets 16 and 18. When panels 2 are raised they slide upwards between channels 4, as illustrated. There is a notch 22 in lower panel 8 to hold the interior part of channel 4 when in storage position.
Figure 3 is a perspective view, in partial section, from inside the porch, illustrating an example emhodiment oE a loc1cing mechanism to hold the channel members and the sliding panels of Figure l -in position. In Figure 3 the I-shaped channel 4 is free to slide upwards between paneLs 2 and with its edge 34 within notch 24 of locking peg 26. The vertically sliding panels 2 are locked in storage adjacent to panels 8 by the same locking peg 26. The peg 26 fits into the slot 28 in vertically slidable panel 2. The vertical edge 34 of the channel member 4 is seated within and vertically slides between storage and closed position within that notch 24, preventing the peg 26 from being withdrawn from the slot 28 in the slidable panel until the channel member 4 is in a closed position.
The vertical edge 34 of the channel member 4 also has a slot 36, the slot being of a size and aligned, when the channel member is in closed position, with the slot 28 of the sliding panel 2 and the aperture 38 of the bottom panel 8 to permit withdrawal of the inner end 44 of the peg from the sliding panel, thereby freeing the panel to be raised into closed position and moving peg 26 into position to hold the channel member firmly in a closed position.
Figures 4 and 5 are perspective views from the interior of a porch of further embodiments of systems according to the present invention. In Figure 4 upper panels 2 are hinged with hinges 45 along edge 47 to lower panel 8. Panels 2 fold upwards in an arc described by arrow C to meet a permanently fixed set of panels 6 (or an appropriate facing member as shown in Figure ll). Fixed panels 6 are attached to the ceiling 20. The upper foldable panels are locked to the fixed panels 6, when in a raised position, by lock 12. In the a~'7~7~
s~lmmert-Lme, the upper panels 2 Fold down and lie adjacent to the lower panels 8 to Form a railing a9 shown by arrow B. The panels are secured in a vertical position by post 10. The edges 46 and 48 of the panels 2 overlap when they are folded into a storage or railing position.
In Figure 5 the outer panel 2 slides vertically upwards to meet a permanently fixed set of panels 6. The vertically slidable panels 2 are locked, in a closed position, against panels 6 by lock 12. Lock 42 fastens the bottom of panel 2 to the top oF panel 8.
Arrow E shows a slidable panel 2 in a storage position as part of the railing. Panels 2 slide and are directed on their movement upwards by an I-shaped joint member 64 which is permanently fixed to one side of the panel 2, and by a T-shaped channel 60, as shown in detail in Figure 9, which is permanently fixed between the bottom panels 8.
Figure 6 is a plan view of the tops of upper panels of the system of Figure 4 in a closed position. The panels 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D are folded upwards into a closed position between posts lOA and lOB. One folds up panel 2A first, then 2B, then 2C and 2D. The panels are folded back down to a storage position in the reverse order: first 2D, then 2C, 2B and 2A. Edges 46 and 48 of these panels 2A and 2B overlap in joint 52A so as to create a casement system for all panels.
Figure 7 is a side view, in section, of the system illustrated in Figure 4, illustrating the manner in which the panels Fold For storage. Upper panel 2 is shown in a closed position. The arrow D shows the arc in which the panel 2 is folded (as shown in t~q`~
phantom) down~ards into a storage position. Phantom panel 2F shows the panel in a storecl pOSitiOIl. Joints 52B and 52C show that the top and bottom edges of the panel complete the casement system for the panels.
~ otted line 40A details a piece of plexiglass which may be placed inside the sash members of the panels to prevent breakage of the regular panel glass when the panel is in stored position. Figure 8 is a partial side section view of the lower panel of the system illustrated in Figure 7. In Figure 8 the plexiglass 40 is held in position by wing nuts 38. Before the panel is raised into a closed position, the wing nuts 38 are unscrewed and the plexiglass 40 is removed. As shown by dotted line 40b, in Figure 7, when panel 2 is in a closed position, the plexiglass can be placed in the lower panel so as to protect it from breakage.
Figure 9 is a perspective drawing, in detail of an enlarged section of the panel system of Figure 5 shown by arrow F. In Figure 9 panels 2A and 2B are vertically slidable and bottom panels 84 and 83 are permanently fixed. The I-shaped joint member 64 is permanent-ly fixed to panel 2A at 52~. Panel 28 slides freely on the right side of the joint member 64. T-shaped channel 60 is permanently fixed between the bottom panels 8A and 8B. I~hen in a stored position channel 60 fits inside slot 68. Panels 2A and 2B and I-shaped joint member 64 can slide vertically upwards on channel 60. Channel 60 holds panels 2A and 2B adjacent panels 8A and 8B. Joint member 64 and the notch 82 which is cut in panel 2B, prevent panel 2B from moving in any direction other than vertically upwards. A gasket 62 ~y~ 17q~
flcts as fl se~l hetween top panels 2A and 2B an(l bottom panels 8A and 8B. ~ox 66 inserted in panel 8A houses a wheeL 72 and a coil spring 7n. Wheel 72 presses against panel 2A, tile coil 70 puts a rotational torque on the wheel, so as to help liEt panel 2A upwards.
Figure 10 is a perspective view, ~rom outside the porch of a further embodiment oL the system according to the present invention. In Figure 10 panel 2 is vertically movable and panel 8 is permanently fixed. Worm gears 86 and 88 on either end of panel 2 are attached to panel 2 by bracket 74. me gears 86 and 88 lift the bracket 74, and as such the panel 2, when they are turned counterclockwise. Sprockets 76 and 78 are fixed to the worm gears 86 and 88, and mate with the chain 90. In order to li~t the upper panel 2, sprocket 80 is turned counterclockwise which in turn moves the chain, which in turn turns the sprockets 76 and 78, which in turn rotate the worm gears which lift panel 2. Sprocket 80 is turned clockwise to lower the upper series of panels 2 into a stored position. Panel 2 when in a closed position, fits into bracket 92 connected to the ceiling. Locks 12 secure panel 2 in the wintertime.
Turning to Figure 11, a slotted facing member 7 may be secured to ceiling 20 to receive and secure in closed position the upper free ends of panels 2 at the upper end of each vertical row, when drawn into extended position. A facing member of the construction illustrated in Figure 11 would of course be used when panels 2 are vertically drawn into closed position, as illustrated in Figure 1, not when they are pivoted into position as shown in Figure 4. In the illustrated embodiment of facing member 7, this member is i"t'g macle of generally l.~shapecl member 91 which is secured as illustrated~
by rivoting or otherwise, to n Elat member 92. Both members have flanges 98 at their base for securing to the overhead ceiling 20.
The vertical and horizontal lengths oF Eacing member 7 will of course vary depending upon the particular requirements of a particular installation. The upper end of each row of panels 2, in extended position, will be seated in the corner formed by the base of member 9l and the lower extremity of member 92. Insulation 9~l may be provided as illustrated, and the upper slot formed between the members may also be filled with insulation as required. Appropriate locking means 95 3 shown in phantom, can be associated with the facing member 18. In the embodiment illustrated, slots 96 are provided in facing member 7 to receive portions of handles (not shown) secured to the upper ends of panels 2. Sliding latches 97 interlock with those end portions of the handles to secure the panels in that closed, extended position.
Thus it is apparent that there has been provided in accordance with the invention a system for enclosing with wall panels, a space such as a balcony or porch that fully satisfies the objects, aims and advantages set forth above. While the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing description. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations as fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.
In the summertime the I-shaped posts or channels 4, and the upper panels 2 are lowered to be stored adjacent to lower panels 8 in the form of a railing, shown generally by arrow A. The railing is secured in a vertical position by post 10. Pully 30 and cable 32 help to lift panel 2 upwards. Cables 32 can be detached from panels 2 when in lowered storage position.
Figure 2 is a perspective view in detail, from outside of the balcony, of the channel member within which the upper panels of the embodiment of Figure 1 slides. In Figure 2 16 and 18 are brackets which are permanently attached to the lower panels 8.
Channel 4 slides vertically upwards between brackets 16 and 18. When channel 4 is in an elevated position, the panels 2 are held laterally in the lowered position by brackets 16 and 18. When panels 2 are raised they slide upwards between channels 4, as illustrated. There is a notch 22 in lower panel 8 to hold the interior part of channel 4 when in storage position.
Figure 3 is a perspective view, in partial section, from inside the porch, illustrating an example emhodiment oE a loc1cing mechanism to hold the channel members and the sliding panels of Figure l -in position. In Figure 3 the I-shaped channel 4 is free to slide upwards between paneLs 2 and with its edge 34 within notch 24 of locking peg 26. The vertically sliding panels 2 are locked in storage adjacent to panels 8 by the same locking peg 26. The peg 26 fits into the slot 28 in vertically slidable panel 2. The vertical edge 34 of the channel member 4 is seated within and vertically slides between storage and closed position within that notch 24, preventing the peg 26 from being withdrawn from the slot 28 in the slidable panel until the channel member 4 is in a closed position.
The vertical edge 34 of the channel member 4 also has a slot 36, the slot being of a size and aligned, when the channel member is in closed position, with the slot 28 of the sliding panel 2 and the aperture 38 of the bottom panel 8 to permit withdrawal of the inner end 44 of the peg from the sliding panel, thereby freeing the panel to be raised into closed position and moving peg 26 into position to hold the channel member firmly in a closed position.
Figures 4 and 5 are perspective views from the interior of a porch of further embodiments of systems according to the present invention. In Figure 4 upper panels 2 are hinged with hinges 45 along edge 47 to lower panel 8. Panels 2 fold upwards in an arc described by arrow C to meet a permanently fixed set of panels 6 (or an appropriate facing member as shown in Figure ll). Fixed panels 6 are attached to the ceiling 20. The upper foldable panels are locked to the fixed panels 6, when in a raised position, by lock 12. In the a~'7~7~
s~lmmert-Lme, the upper panels 2 Fold down and lie adjacent to the lower panels 8 to Form a railing a9 shown by arrow B. The panels are secured in a vertical position by post 10. The edges 46 and 48 of the panels 2 overlap when they are folded into a storage or railing position.
In Figure 5 the outer panel 2 slides vertically upwards to meet a permanently fixed set of panels 6. The vertically slidable panels 2 are locked, in a closed position, against panels 6 by lock 12. Lock 42 fastens the bottom of panel 2 to the top oF panel 8.
Arrow E shows a slidable panel 2 in a storage position as part of the railing. Panels 2 slide and are directed on their movement upwards by an I-shaped joint member 64 which is permanently fixed to one side of the panel 2, and by a T-shaped channel 60, as shown in detail in Figure 9, which is permanently fixed between the bottom panels 8.
Figure 6 is a plan view of the tops of upper panels of the system of Figure 4 in a closed position. The panels 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D are folded upwards into a closed position between posts lOA and lOB. One folds up panel 2A first, then 2B, then 2C and 2D. The panels are folded back down to a storage position in the reverse order: first 2D, then 2C, 2B and 2A. Edges 46 and 48 of these panels 2A and 2B overlap in joint 52A so as to create a casement system for all panels.
Figure 7 is a side view, in section, of the system illustrated in Figure 4, illustrating the manner in which the panels Fold For storage. Upper panel 2 is shown in a closed position. The arrow D shows the arc in which the panel 2 is folded (as shown in t~q`~
phantom) down~ards into a storage position. Phantom panel 2F shows the panel in a storecl pOSitiOIl. Joints 52B and 52C show that the top and bottom edges of the panel complete the casement system for the panels.
~ otted line 40A details a piece of plexiglass which may be placed inside the sash members of the panels to prevent breakage of the regular panel glass when the panel is in stored position. Figure 8 is a partial side section view of the lower panel of the system illustrated in Figure 7. In Figure 8 the plexiglass 40 is held in position by wing nuts 38. Before the panel is raised into a closed position, the wing nuts 38 are unscrewed and the plexiglass 40 is removed. As shown by dotted line 40b, in Figure 7, when panel 2 is in a closed position, the plexiglass can be placed in the lower panel so as to protect it from breakage.
Figure 9 is a perspective drawing, in detail of an enlarged section of the panel system of Figure 5 shown by arrow F. In Figure 9 panels 2A and 2B are vertically slidable and bottom panels 84 and 83 are permanently fixed. The I-shaped joint member 64 is permanent-ly fixed to panel 2A at 52~. Panel 28 slides freely on the right side of the joint member 64. T-shaped channel 60 is permanently fixed between the bottom panels 8A and 8B. I~hen in a stored position channel 60 fits inside slot 68. Panels 2A and 2B and I-shaped joint member 64 can slide vertically upwards on channel 60. Channel 60 holds panels 2A and 2B adjacent panels 8A and 8B. Joint member 64 and the notch 82 which is cut in panel 2B, prevent panel 2B from moving in any direction other than vertically upwards. A gasket 62 ~y~ 17q~
flcts as fl se~l hetween top panels 2A and 2B an(l bottom panels 8A and 8B. ~ox 66 inserted in panel 8A houses a wheeL 72 and a coil spring 7n. Wheel 72 presses against panel 2A, tile coil 70 puts a rotational torque on the wheel, so as to help liEt panel 2A upwards.
Figure 10 is a perspective view, ~rom outside the porch of a further embodiment oL the system according to the present invention. In Figure 10 panel 2 is vertically movable and panel 8 is permanently fixed. Worm gears 86 and 88 on either end of panel 2 are attached to panel 2 by bracket 74. me gears 86 and 88 lift the bracket 74, and as such the panel 2, when they are turned counterclockwise. Sprockets 76 and 78 are fixed to the worm gears 86 and 88, and mate with the chain 90. In order to li~t the upper panel 2, sprocket 80 is turned counterclockwise which in turn moves the chain, which in turn turns the sprockets 76 and 78, which in turn rotate the worm gears which lift panel 2. Sprocket 80 is turned clockwise to lower the upper series of panels 2 into a stored position. Panel 2 when in a closed position, fits into bracket 92 connected to the ceiling. Locks 12 secure panel 2 in the wintertime.
Turning to Figure 11, a slotted facing member 7 may be secured to ceiling 20 to receive and secure in closed position the upper free ends of panels 2 at the upper end of each vertical row, when drawn into extended position. A facing member of the construction illustrated in Figure 11 would of course be used when panels 2 are vertically drawn into closed position, as illustrated in Figure 1, not when they are pivoted into position as shown in Figure 4. In the illustrated embodiment of facing member 7, this member is i"t'g macle of generally l.~shapecl member 91 which is secured as illustrated~
by rivoting or otherwise, to n Elat member 92. Both members have flanges 98 at their base for securing to the overhead ceiling 20.
The vertical and horizontal lengths oF Eacing member 7 will of course vary depending upon the particular requirements of a particular installation. The upper end of each row of panels 2, in extended position, will be seated in the corner formed by the base of member 9l and the lower extremity of member 92. Insulation 9~l may be provided as illustrated, and the upper slot formed between the members may also be filled with insulation as required. Appropriate locking means 95 3 shown in phantom, can be associated with the facing member 18. In the embodiment illustrated, slots 96 are provided in facing member 7 to receive portions of handles (not shown) secured to the upper ends of panels 2. Sliding latches 97 interlock with those end portions of the handles to secure the panels in that closed, extended position.
Thus it is apparent that there has been provided in accordance with the invention a system for enclosing with wall panels, a space such as a balcony or porch that fully satisfies the objects, aims and advantages set forth above. While the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing description. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations as fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.
Claims (13)
PROPERTY OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. A system for enclosing with panels a space having a hori-zontal base and an overhanging ceiling spaced a distance thereabove, the system comprising two or more horizontal rows of a plurality of wall panels, the panels to extend from the base to the ceiling about the portion of the base and ceiling to be enclosed, means to secure the bottom row of panels in position about the portion of the base to be enclosed, means to hold the other row or rows of panels with respect to the bottom row in storage position beside and adjacent panels in the bottom row, the panels in this position to form a railing, and to permit movement of the panels in said other row or rows from said storage position to closed position thereabove, panels in the other row or rows meeting a portion of the ceiling when in said closed position, to achieve the desired enclosure, and releasable locking means associated with the panels to maintain the wall panels securely in closed position.
2. A system according to claim 1 wherein each panel in one row is hingedly secured to an adjacent panel to be in the row immediately below when in closed position, so that the panels may be unfolded from storage to closed position.
3. A system according to claim 1 wherein an I-shaped channel member is upwardly, slideably secured between each pair of adjacent panels in the bottom row for movement between a storage position and an elevated position, each of the channel members being provided with locking means to releasably secure the posts in elevated position and to prevent vertical movement of panels in the other row or rows of panels from storage position until the channel members are secured in elevated position, each panel in the other row or rows of panel being upwardly slidable within cooperating pairs of channel members between storage position beside and closed position above its corresponding aligned panel in the lower row.
4. A system according to claim 3 wherein each channel member locking means comprises a peg, the inner end of the peg being seated when the panels are in storage position within a slot in the vertically slidable panel or panels, an aligned, adjacent aperture being provided in the corresponding aligned panel in the bottom row, the edge of the peg being provided with a vertical notch and positioned such that a vertical edge of the channel member is seated within the notch and vertically slides between storage and closed position within that notch, preventing the peg from being withdrawn from the slot in the slidable member until the channel member is in closed position, that vertical edge of the channel member having a slot, the slot being of a size and aligned, when the channel member is in closed position, with the slot of the sliding panel and the aperture of the bottom panel then to permit withdrawal of the inner end of the peg from the sliding panel, thereby freeing the panel to be raised into closed position and moving the peg into position to hold the channel member firmly in closed position.
5. A system according to claim 1 or 2 wherein adjacent edge portions of adjacent panels in the other row or rows overlap to provide increased stability and improved fit.
6. A system according to claim 1 wherein the rows of wall panels comprise a plurality of panels secured to each other along horizontal fold lines.
7. A system according to claim 2 further provided with power means to raise the rows of wall panels.
8. A system according to claim 2 wherein walls comprise a plurality of abutting, adjacent rows of wall panels, each row separated laterally from similar, adjacent rows along vertical lines.
9. A system according to claim 2 wherein the wall panels are insulated.
10. A system according to claim 1 wherein the locking means of the panels provide handle means to assist in lifting the panel rows.
11. A system according to claim 2 further comprising a slotted, facing member to be secured to the corresponding ceiling or base opposite said other end panel in each row when in extended position to receive the free ends of these end panels when drawn into extended position.
12. A system according to claim 1 wherein the other row or rows of panels are upwardly slidable and are interconnected with adjacent panels in the corresponding row.
13. A system according to claim 12 wherein the upwardly slid-able panels are interconnected with a channel which is permanently fixed to the bottom panels.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US23075781A | 1981-02-02 | 1981-02-02 | |
| US230,757 | 1981-02-02 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1191779A true CA1191779A (en) | 1985-08-13 |
Family
ID=22866448
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000394067A Expired CA1191779A (en) | 1981-02-02 | 1982-01-13 | Space enclosure system |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA1191779A (en) |
-
1982
- 1982-01-13 CA CA000394067A patent/CA1191779A/en not_active Expired
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| Date | Code | Title | Description |
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| MKEX | Expiry |