CA2261224C - Panel structure - Google Patents
Panel structure Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2261224C CA2261224C CA002261224A CA2261224A CA2261224C CA 2261224 C CA2261224 C CA 2261224C CA 002261224 A CA002261224 A CA 002261224A CA 2261224 A CA2261224 A CA 2261224A CA 2261224 C CA2261224 C CA 2261224C
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- panel
- edge
- frame member
- connector
- mounting portion
- 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.)
- Expired - Lifetime
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Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B2/00—Walls, e.g. partitions, for buildings; Wall construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted to walls
- E04B2/88—Curtain walls
- E04B2/96—Curtain walls comprising panels attached to the structure through mullions or transoms
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F13/00—Coverings or linings, e.g. for walls or ceilings
- E04F13/07—Coverings or linings, e.g. for walls or ceilings composed of covering or lining elements; Sub-structures therefor; Fastening means therefor
- E04F13/08—Coverings or linings, e.g. for walls or ceilings composed of covering or lining elements; Sub-structures therefor; Fastening means therefor composed of a plurality of similar covering or lining elements
- E04F13/12—Coverings or linings, e.g. for walls or ceilings composed of covering or lining elements; Sub-structures therefor; Fastening means therefor composed of a plurality of similar covering or lining elements of metal or with an outer layer of metal or enameled metal
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Electromagnetism (AREA)
- Finishing Walls (AREA)
Abstract
A panel structure for a building panel system to cover an exterior wall of a building. The panel structure comprises identical frame members fixed to the back surface of the panel, one along at least two of its edges. The frame members have mounting portions projecting away from the panel, each two opposed hook. The mounting portions of frame members extending along opposed edges of the panel are in longitudinal mirror symmetry to each other, so the panel structure does not have a specific orientation.
Description
PANEL STRUCTURE
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to panels for covering an external wall of a building, and more particularly to a prefabricated panel structure that has no specific orientation and may be easily mounted on supporting rails fixed on the wall.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIGN
1 o In large commercial and institutional buildings of certain architectural styles, exterior panels of sheet-like form are used more and more. Those panels can be produced directly in factories and therefore may be rapidly installed on horizontal rails mounted on the facade of the building for this purpose.
Various panel structures have been designed to make such panel walls as easy to install as possible. For example, U.S. Patent no. 5,544,461 (Sommerstein) discloses a panel mounting structure comprising a plurality of vertically adjacent panels removably mounted on supports, which are in turn mounted on the exterior wall of a building structure. Each panel of the panel structure has an upper edge portion and a lower edge portion each having a downwards open hook adapted to 2 o be in engagement with corresponding ribs on the supports. Care must however be exercised in installing such panels as each hook must be engaged with the proper rib. This system is also especially adapted for panels made of lightweight materials such as thin sheets of aluminum or steel, since the edges of the panel itself are preferably folded to form the appropriate engaging portions.
Other examples or related prior art are disclosed in the following documents:
U.S. Patents nos. 3,715,848; 3,766,698; 3,866,374; 4,307,551; 4,614,069;
4, 662,136; 4, 685, 263; 4, 783, 941; 5, 083, 405 and 5, 369, 924.
There is a need for a panel structure that is easier to install than existing prior art, and more particularly for a panel structure that has no specific orientation.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
An object of the present invention is to provide a panel structure that satisfies the above-mentioned need. Accordingly, the present invention provides a panel structure for covering a wall comprising a panel having a front surface and a back surface, a first edge and a second edge parallel to the first edge. A first frame member is secured to the back surface of the panel and extends along the first edge thereof. A second frame member is secured to the back surtace of the panel and extends along the second edge thereof. The first and the second frame member each comprise a universal mounting portion, the mounting portion of the first and 1 o second frame member projecting away from the panel in longitudinal mirror symmetry to each other. Each mounting portion defines a first and a second connector.
The first connector of each frame member is adapted to engage an upper horizontal support fixed on the wall as the edge of the panel associated with said first connector lies in an uppermost horizontal position. The second connector of each frame member is adapted to engage a lower horizontal support as the edge of the panel associated with said second connector lies in a lowermost horizontal position.
In this manner, the panel structure is vertically mountable on the wall with either one of the first and the second edge lying in an uppermost horizontal position.
According to a preferred embodiment the panel has a third edge 2 o perpendicular to the first and second edges and a fourth edge parallel to the third edge. The panel structure further comprises a third frame member secured to the back surface of the panel and extending along the third edge thereof, and a fourth frame member secured to the back surface of the panel and extending along the fourth edge thereof. The first and the second frame member each comprise a universal mounting portion, the mounting portion of the third and fourth frame member projecting away from the panel in longitudinal mirror symmetry to each other. Each mounting portion defines a first and a second connector. The first connector of each frame member is adapted to engage an upper horizontal support fixed on the wall as the edge of the panel associated with said first connector lies in 3 o an uppermost horizontal position. The second connector of each frame member is adapted to engage a lower horizontal support as the edge of fhe panel associated with said second connector lies in a lowermost horizontal position.
Advantageously, in this embodiment the panel structure is vertically mountable on the wall with either one of the first, the second, 'the third and the fourth edge lying in an uppermost horizontal posifion.
The present :i.nventiori a1_so concerns a panel structure for covering a wall, campr.is.ing:
a panel hav~r_g a front: surface and a back surface, a first edge arud a sr:.r_;onci edge parallel to the first edge;
a first frame member secured t=o the back surface of the panel and extending along aloe A-irst edge thereof;
and a second frame member ~~e~~ui ed to the back surface of the panel and extending alon;:~ t.oe s<~cond edge thereof, the first and the second frame member each comprising a universal mounting port i_on, the mc~unt:i.ng portion of the first and ser_ond frame member projecting away from the panel in longitudinal mi~wrc~r syrrunet rry 1.o each other, each mounting portion defining as iir;t and ,i second connector, the first connector of c,~ol- rr~c~uroi:. ine~ portion. being adapted to engage an upper_ hogi<:.c~ntal support fixed on the wall as the edge of the panel associated wi.tr s,:~.i.d first connector lies in an uppermost horizontal po:iti.on, and the second connector of each mounting portion k~einc~ adapted to engage a lower horizontal ~~;uppoi t as tluF~ f-.~dge of the panel associated with said second c:onnectc:~r l.i.es in a lowermost horizontal position;
whereby the paze.lstructure is vertically mountable on the wall with either orue of the first and the second edge lying in the uppermost tn;.~ri~ontal position; and 3a wherein, for the mounting portion of each of the first and second fram:= r~~eml~el:s, vh~ ;~euond connector forms a hook adapted to engage a vertically extending engagement member of the lower support, an~~~ t~ze first connector comprises a substantial=L.y hor_i.2.c>r~t.a~~1 imb extending from the second connector and projecting away from the panel, said horizontal limb I;~E ing ad~~>t:ec:l to rest on a horizontally extending enc~a_qement member of the upper horizontal support, whereby the panel structures ss mountable on the wall by first slightly tilt=ing the panr~l and engaging the second connector associ~~ted with vne edge oi= the panel lying in the lowermost horizonr,~l position on the vertically extending fengagemen'_ member of the lower support, and then rot~~t:i nc~ the p~rae l st e~uc~ture around said vertically extending engagement member coward the wall to engage the first connect;c:~r ;~ssoc i at:~ ca w i t.h t:he edge of the panel lying in the uppermc>st rmoria:c:~rutal. position on the horizontally extending engagement memt~er of the upper horizontal support.
Other objects, features and advantages of the invention should become more apparent upon reading the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment thereof taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a sectional perspective view of a portion of a building panel system including a panel structure according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 is a schematic front view of a building panel system comprising panels made of various materials according to another preferred embodiment of the invention.
3b Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view along line III-III of figure 2 showing the junction of two vertically adjacent aluminum panels.
Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view along line IV-IV of figure 2 showing the junction of two vertically adjacent granite panels.
Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view along line V-V of figure 2 showing the junction of two horizontally adjacent aluminum panels.
Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view along fine VI-VI of figure 2 showing the junction of two horizontally adjacent granite panels.
Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view along line VII-VII of figure 2 showing the junction between the head of an aluminum panel and an aluminum parapet.
Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view along line Vill-VIII of figure 2 showing the bottom of a wall covered with an aluminum panel.
Figure 9A is a cross-sectional view of two adjacent panels hung on a wall according to another preferred embodiment of the invention; figure 9B is a side view of a horizontal support according to the embodiment of figure 9A; figure 9C is a side view of a mounting portion also according to the embodiment of figure 9A.
NUMERAL REFERENCES OF THE ELEMENTS
2 panel structure 3 existing wall 4 window case 5 panel 6 parapet 8 horizontal support 10 opening in the wall 12 window pane 14 front surface (of a panel) 16 back surface (of a panel) 102 first edge 104 second edge 106 third edge 108 fourth edge 2 110 first frame member 112 second frame member 114 mounting portion 116 first connector 118 second connector 2 120 screw 122 third frame member 124 fourth frame member 126 strip of sealing material 127 gasket pocket 30 128 upper engagement member (of the horizontal support) 130 lower engagement member (of the horizontal support) 132 horizontal portion (of a parapet) 134 vertical portion (of a parapet) 136 frame member (of a parapet) 138 back surface (of a parapet) DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
A portion of a building panel system according to the present invention and covering the upper part of an existing wall (3) is illustrated in Figure 1.
More 1 o particularly, this portion shows two rows of panel structures (2) and one row of two window cases (4) disposed between the two rows of panel structures (2). This portion also shows two aluminum parapets (6) mounted on top of the building.
The panel structures (2) are hooked side-by-side on horizontal supports (8) fixed on the exterior wall surface (3) of the building and the window cases (4) are mounted in an opening (10) of the wall (3). As can be appreciated, for someone looking at the building, a joint between two panels or a joint between a window and a panel look alike and are not distinguishable because the window pane (12) of a window case (4) is coplanar with the front surface (14) of the adjacent panel structure (2).
Another design of a building panel structure according to the present 2 o invention is illustrated in Figure 2. This design comprises four rows of side-by-side panel structures (2), made of different materials selected among aluminum (2a), tympan glass (2b), concrete (2c), granite (2d) or any suitable material. Three window cases (4) are mounted between some of those panel structures (2).
Referring to Figure 2 and any one of Figures 3 to 8, each panel structure (2) comprises a panel (5) having a front surface (14), a back surface (16), a first edge (102), a second edge (104) parallel to the first edge (102), a third edge (106) perpendicular to the first and second edges (102,104) and a fourth edge (108) parallel to the third edge (106).
Figures 3 and 4 are cross-sectional views of the joint between two vertically 3 o adjacent panel structures (2), both made of aluminium in the first case and granite in the second. A first frame member (110) is secured to the back surface (16) of each panel (5), as may be seen on the lower panel (5a) on both figures, and extends along its first edge (102). A second frame member (112), seen here on the upper panel (5b), is similarly secured to the back surface (16) of each panel (5), and extends along its corresponding second edge (104). Each frame member comprises a universal mounting portion (114), projecting away from the panel (5), each mounting portion (114) defining a first (116) and a second connector (118).
The first connector (116) of each frame member is adapted to engage an upper horizontal support (8) fixed on the wall as the edge of the panel associated with said first connector (116) lies in an uppermost horizontal position. The second connector (118) of each frame member is adapted to engage a lower horizontal support (8) as the edge of the panel associated with said second connector (118) lies in a lowermost horizontal position. The mounting portion (114) of a first frame member (110) is in longitudinal mirror symmetry to the mounting portion (114) of the second frame member (112) of the same panel structure (2). In this manner, the panel structures (2) have no "up" or "down" side, as they are vertically mountable on the wall (3) with either one of their first or second edge (102,104) lying in an uppermost horizontal position.
As seen in figure 3, for an aluminium panel (5), the frame members (110, 112) are preferably fixed to the back surface (16) of the panel (5) with a screw (120) or 2 o with glue. This is also a preferred fastening means for panels (5) made of concrete.
For granite (as shown in figure 4) or tympan glass panels (5), the frame members (110,112) are preferably bonded on the back surface (16) of each panel (5) with a suitable adhesive. Also preferably, the panel made of granite may be bonded to a first panel made of concrete. Of course, any other appropriate fastening means may be used to fix the frame members (110,112) to panels (5) of any suitable material.
Figures 5 and 6 show the joint between two horizontally adjacent panel structures (2), the panels (5) being made of aluminum in figure 5 and of granite in figure 6. As can be appreciated, each of the panel structures (2) preferably further comprises a third and a fourth frame member (122,124). The third frame member (122) is secured to the back surface (16) of the panel (5), and extends along the third edge (106) thereof. The fourth frame member (124) is secured to the back surface (16) of the panel (5) along its fourth edge (108), opposed to the third edge (106). The third and the fourth frame members are each provided with a universal mounting portion (114), identical to the mounting portions of the first and second frame members (110,112). The mounting portions (114) of the third and fourth frame members (122,124) are therefore in longitudinal mirror symmetry to each other.
Advantageously, in this embodiment the panel structures (2) have no specific orientation. Each panel (5) is vertically mountable on the wall with either of its edges lying in an uppermost horizontal position.
The panel structures (2) according to the present invention are particularly 1 o adapted to be used in a building panel system covering the exterior wall surface (3) of a building, comprising a plurality of horizontal supports (8) fixed to the exterior wall (3). Preferably, each horizontal support (8) is formed as a supporting rail and has an upper engagement member (128) and a lower engagement member (130), as for example illustrated on figures 3 and 4. A plurality of panel structures (2) as defined in any of the particular embodiments described above are mounted side-by-side on the horizontal support (8) to define rows of panel structures (2). In a particular row, the frame member disposed in the uppermost horizontal position has its second connector (118) engaged with the lower engagement member (130) of a horizontal support, and the frame member disposed in the lowermost horizontal position has 2o its first connector (116) engaged with the upper engagement member (128) of the downwardly adjacent horizontal support (8).
In the preferred embodiment illustrated for example in figures 3 and 4, the mounting portion (114) of each frame member has an S-shaped cross-section, which forms two opposed hooks, respectively defining the first (116) and second connector (116). In this manner the panel structures (2) are mounted on the horizontal supports (8) by simply hooking the connectors (116,118) on the upper (128) and lower (130) engagement members of adjacent horizontal supports (8).
Figures 9A, 9B and 9C illustrate another preferred embodiment according to the present invention. In this embodiment, for the mounting portion (114) of each 3o frame member, the second connector (118) forms a hook adapted to engage the upper engagement member (128) of the lower horizontal support (8) which extends g vertically for this purpose. The first connector (116) is shaped as a substantially horizontal limb extending from the second connector (118) and projecting away from the panel (5). The lower engagement member (13) has a horizontally extending portion on which the horizontal limb is adapted to rest. In this manner, the panel structure (2) is mountable on the wall (3) by first slightly tilting the panel (5), and engaging the second connector (118) associated with the edge of the panel lying in the lowermost horizontal position on the vertically extending engagement member (128) of the lower support (8), and then rotating the panel structure (2) around the same vertically extending engagement member (118) toward the wall (3) to engage 1 o the first connector (116) associated with the edge of the panel lying in the uppermost horizontal position on the horizontally extending engagement member (130) of the upper horizontal support (8).
Referring to anyone of Figures 3 to 7, the panel structure (2) preferably further comprises a strip of sealing material (126), fixed to at least one frame member ( 110,112,122 or 124). Each strip ( 126) extends outwards from the edge along which the corresponding frame member is secured. More specifically, each strip of sealing material (126) has an end portion inserted in a gasket pocket (127) defined in the corresponding frame member. As evident from figures 3 to 6, when the panel structures (2) are mounted on the wall (3) side by side, the strips (126) from 2 o neighbouring panel structures (2) contact each other, filling the space between the panels for a more uniform look. Advantageously, when the panel (5) is provided with a strip (126) on each of its sides, no intermittent space can be seen from outside of the exterior wall (3).
Referring now to figure 7, there is shown the upper portion of a panel 2 5 structure (2) of the uppermost row of a building panel system according to the present invention. Preferably, the top of the building is covered with a parapet (6), having a horizontal portion (132) covering the top of the building and a vertical portion (134) extending in alignment with the panel structure (2). In the illustrated embodiment, the parapet (6) is provided with a frame member (136) fixed to the back 3o surface (138) thereof, the frame member (136) being similar to those of the panel structures (2). In this manner, the parapet (6) is mounted on the upper engagement member (128) of the higher horizontal support (8), allowing for a smooth transition at the top of the building.
With reference to figure 8, there is shown the lower portion of a panel structure (2) of the lowest row of a building panel system. Preferably, the lowest horizontal support (8) has only an upper engagement member (128), which engages the first connector (116) of the lowest vertically extending frame member of the panel structures (2) of the lowest row of panel structures (2).
As can be appreciated, a panel structure according to the present invention and more particularly to the preferred embodiment described herein has no specific l0 orientation. Each panel is vertically mountable on the wall with either of its edges lying in an uppermost horizontal position. Therefore, the construction of a building panel system with such panel structures can be done very rapidly. Moreover, this system is easily adaptable for panels made of various materials, and even allow to build a panel wall where different panels may be made of different materials.
Of course, numerous modifications could be made to the preferred embodiments disclosed hereinabove without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to panels for covering an external wall of a building, and more particularly to a prefabricated panel structure that has no specific orientation and may be easily mounted on supporting rails fixed on the wall.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIGN
1 o In large commercial and institutional buildings of certain architectural styles, exterior panels of sheet-like form are used more and more. Those panels can be produced directly in factories and therefore may be rapidly installed on horizontal rails mounted on the facade of the building for this purpose.
Various panel structures have been designed to make such panel walls as easy to install as possible. For example, U.S. Patent no. 5,544,461 (Sommerstein) discloses a panel mounting structure comprising a plurality of vertically adjacent panels removably mounted on supports, which are in turn mounted on the exterior wall of a building structure. Each panel of the panel structure has an upper edge portion and a lower edge portion each having a downwards open hook adapted to 2 o be in engagement with corresponding ribs on the supports. Care must however be exercised in installing such panels as each hook must be engaged with the proper rib. This system is also especially adapted for panels made of lightweight materials such as thin sheets of aluminum or steel, since the edges of the panel itself are preferably folded to form the appropriate engaging portions.
Other examples or related prior art are disclosed in the following documents:
U.S. Patents nos. 3,715,848; 3,766,698; 3,866,374; 4,307,551; 4,614,069;
4, 662,136; 4, 685, 263; 4, 783, 941; 5, 083, 405 and 5, 369, 924.
There is a need for a panel structure that is easier to install than existing prior art, and more particularly for a panel structure that has no specific orientation.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
An object of the present invention is to provide a panel structure that satisfies the above-mentioned need. Accordingly, the present invention provides a panel structure for covering a wall comprising a panel having a front surface and a back surface, a first edge and a second edge parallel to the first edge. A first frame member is secured to the back surface of the panel and extends along the first edge thereof. A second frame member is secured to the back surtace of the panel and extends along the second edge thereof. The first and the second frame member each comprise a universal mounting portion, the mounting portion of the first and 1 o second frame member projecting away from the panel in longitudinal mirror symmetry to each other. Each mounting portion defines a first and a second connector.
The first connector of each frame member is adapted to engage an upper horizontal support fixed on the wall as the edge of the panel associated with said first connector lies in an uppermost horizontal position. The second connector of each frame member is adapted to engage a lower horizontal support as the edge of the panel associated with said second connector lies in a lowermost horizontal position.
In this manner, the panel structure is vertically mountable on the wall with either one of the first and the second edge lying in an uppermost horizontal position.
According to a preferred embodiment the panel has a third edge 2 o perpendicular to the first and second edges and a fourth edge parallel to the third edge. The panel structure further comprises a third frame member secured to the back surface of the panel and extending along the third edge thereof, and a fourth frame member secured to the back surface of the panel and extending along the fourth edge thereof. The first and the second frame member each comprise a universal mounting portion, the mounting portion of the third and fourth frame member projecting away from the panel in longitudinal mirror symmetry to each other. Each mounting portion defines a first and a second connector. The first connector of each frame member is adapted to engage an upper horizontal support fixed on the wall as the edge of the panel associated with said first connector lies in 3 o an uppermost horizontal position. The second connector of each frame member is adapted to engage a lower horizontal support as the edge of fhe panel associated with said second connector lies in a lowermost horizontal position.
Advantageously, in this embodiment the panel structure is vertically mountable on the wall with either one of the first, the second, 'the third and the fourth edge lying in an uppermost horizontal posifion.
The present :i.nventiori a1_so concerns a panel structure for covering a wall, campr.is.ing:
a panel hav~r_g a front: surface and a back surface, a first edge arud a sr:.r_;onci edge parallel to the first edge;
a first frame member secured t=o the back surface of the panel and extending along aloe A-irst edge thereof;
and a second frame member ~~e~~ui ed to the back surface of the panel and extending alon;:~ t.oe s<~cond edge thereof, the first and the second frame member each comprising a universal mounting port i_on, the mc~unt:i.ng portion of the first and ser_ond frame member projecting away from the panel in longitudinal mi~wrc~r syrrunet rry 1.o each other, each mounting portion defining as iir;t and ,i second connector, the first connector of c,~ol- rr~c~uroi:. ine~ portion. being adapted to engage an upper_ hogi<:.c~ntal support fixed on the wall as the edge of the panel associated wi.tr s,:~.i.d first connector lies in an uppermost horizontal po:iti.on, and the second connector of each mounting portion k~einc~ adapted to engage a lower horizontal ~~;uppoi t as tluF~ f-.~dge of the panel associated with said second c:onnectc:~r l.i.es in a lowermost horizontal position;
whereby the paze.lstructure is vertically mountable on the wall with either orue of the first and the second edge lying in the uppermost tn;.~ri~ontal position; and 3a wherein, for the mounting portion of each of the first and second fram:= r~~eml~el:s, vh~ ;~euond connector forms a hook adapted to engage a vertically extending engagement member of the lower support, an~~~ t~ze first connector comprises a substantial=L.y hor_i.2.c>r~t.a~~1 imb extending from the second connector and projecting away from the panel, said horizontal limb I;~E ing ad~~>t:ec:l to rest on a horizontally extending enc~a_qement member of the upper horizontal support, whereby the panel structures ss mountable on the wall by first slightly tilt=ing the panr~l and engaging the second connector associ~~ted with vne edge oi= the panel lying in the lowermost horizonr,~l position on the vertically extending fengagemen'_ member of the lower support, and then rot~~t:i nc~ the p~rae l st e~uc~ture around said vertically extending engagement member coward the wall to engage the first connect;c:~r ;~ssoc i at:~ ca w i t.h t:he edge of the panel lying in the uppermc>st rmoria:c:~rutal. position on the horizontally extending engagement memt~er of the upper horizontal support.
Other objects, features and advantages of the invention should become more apparent upon reading the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment thereof taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a sectional perspective view of a portion of a building panel system including a panel structure according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 is a schematic front view of a building panel system comprising panels made of various materials according to another preferred embodiment of the invention.
3b Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view along line III-III of figure 2 showing the junction of two vertically adjacent aluminum panels.
Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view along line IV-IV of figure 2 showing the junction of two vertically adjacent granite panels.
Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view along line V-V of figure 2 showing the junction of two horizontally adjacent aluminum panels.
Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view along fine VI-VI of figure 2 showing the junction of two horizontally adjacent granite panels.
Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view along line VII-VII of figure 2 showing the junction between the head of an aluminum panel and an aluminum parapet.
Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view along line Vill-VIII of figure 2 showing the bottom of a wall covered with an aluminum panel.
Figure 9A is a cross-sectional view of two adjacent panels hung on a wall according to another preferred embodiment of the invention; figure 9B is a side view of a horizontal support according to the embodiment of figure 9A; figure 9C is a side view of a mounting portion also according to the embodiment of figure 9A.
NUMERAL REFERENCES OF THE ELEMENTS
2 panel structure 3 existing wall 4 window case 5 panel 6 parapet 8 horizontal support 10 opening in the wall 12 window pane 14 front surface (of a panel) 16 back surface (of a panel) 102 first edge 104 second edge 106 third edge 108 fourth edge 2 110 first frame member 112 second frame member 114 mounting portion 116 first connector 118 second connector 2 120 screw 122 third frame member 124 fourth frame member 126 strip of sealing material 127 gasket pocket 30 128 upper engagement member (of the horizontal support) 130 lower engagement member (of the horizontal support) 132 horizontal portion (of a parapet) 134 vertical portion (of a parapet) 136 frame member (of a parapet) 138 back surface (of a parapet) DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
A portion of a building panel system according to the present invention and covering the upper part of an existing wall (3) is illustrated in Figure 1.
More 1 o particularly, this portion shows two rows of panel structures (2) and one row of two window cases (4) disposed between the two rows of panel structures (2). This portion also shows two aluminum parapets (6) mounted on top of the building.
The panel structures (2) are hooked side-by-side on horizontal supports (8) fixed on the exterior wall surface (3) of the building and the window cases (4) are mounted in an opening (10) of the wall (3). As can be appreciated, for someone looking at the building, a joint between two panels or a joint between a window and a panel look alike and are not distinguishable because the window pane (12) of a window case (4) is coplanar with the front surface (14) of the adjacent panel structure (2).
Another design of a building panel structure according to the present 2 o invention is illustrated in Figure 2. This design comprises four rows of side-by-side panel structures (2), made of different materials selected among aluminum (2a), tympan glass (2b), concrete (2c), granite (2d) or any suitable material. Three window cases (4) are mounted between some of those panel structures (2).
Referring to Figure 2 and any one of Figures 3 to 8, each panel structure (2) comprises a panel (5) having a front surface (14), a back surface (16), a first edge (102), a second edge (104) parallel to the first edge (102), a third edge (106) perpendicular to the first and second edges (102,104) and a fourth edge (108) parallel to the third edge (106).
Figures 3 and 4 are cross-sectional views of the joint between two vertically 3 o adjacent panel structures (2), both made of aluminium in the first case and granite in the second. A first frame member (110) is secured to the back surface (16) of each panel (5), as may be seen on the lower panel (5a) on both figures, and extends along its first edge (102). A second frame member (112), seen here on the upper panel (5b), is similarly secured to the back surface (16) of each panel (5), and extends along its corresponding second edge (104). Each frame member comprises a universal mounting portion (114), projecting away from the panel (5), each mounting portion (114) defining a first (116) and a second connector (118).
The first connector (116) of each frame member is adapted to engage an upper horizontal support (8) fixed on the wall as the edge of the panel associated with said first connector (116) lies in an uppermost horizontal position. The second connector (118) of each frame member is adapted to engage a lower horizontal support (8) as the edge of the panel associated with said second connector (118) lies in a lowermost horizontal position. The mounting portion (114) of a first frame member (110) is in longitudinal mirror symmetry to the mounting portion (114) of the second frame member (112) of the same panel structure (2). In this manner, the panel structures (2) have no "up" or "down" side, as they are vertically mountable on the wall (3) with either one of their first or second edge (102,104) lying in an uppermost horizontal position.
As seen in figure 3, for an aluminium panel (5), the frame members (110, 112) are preferably fixed to the back surface (16) of the panel (5) with a screw (120) or 2 o with glue. This is also a preferred fastening means for panels (5) made of concrete.
For granite (as shown in figure 4) or tympan glass panels (5), the frame members (110,112) are preferably bonded on the back surface (16) of each panel (5) with a suitable adhesive. Also preferably, the panel made of granite may be bonded to a first panel made of concrete. Of course, any other appropriate fastening means may be used to fix the frame members (110,112) to panels (5) of any suitable material.
Figures 5 and 6 show the joint between two horizontally adjacent panel structures (2), the panels (5) being made of aluminum in figure 5 and of granite in figure 6. As can be appreciated, each of the panel structures (2) preferably further comprises a third and a fourth frame member (122,124). The third frame member (122) is secured to the back surface (16) of the panel (5), and extends along the third edge (106) thereof. The fourth frame member (124) is secured to the back surface (16) of the panel (5) along its fourth edge (108), opposed to the third edge (106). The third and the fourth frame members are each provided with a universal mounting portion (114), identical to the mounting portions of the first and second frame members (110,112). The mounting portions (114) of the third and fourth frame members (122,124) are therefore in longitudinal mirror symmetry to each other.
Advantageously, in this embodiment the panel structures (2) have no specific orientation. Each panel (5) is vertically mountable on the wall with either of its edges lying in an uppermost horizontal position.
The panel structures (2) according to the present invention are particularly 1 o adapted to be used in a building panel system covering the exterior wall surface (3) of a building, comprising a plurality of horizontal supports (8) fixed to the exterior wall (3). Preferably, each horizontal support (8) is formed as a supporting rail and has an upper engagement member (128) and a lower engagement member (130), as for example illustrated on figures 3 and 4. A plurality of panel structures (2) as defined in any of the particular embodiments described above are mounted side-by-side on the horizontal support (8) to define rows of panel structures (2). In a particular row, the frame member disposed in the uppermost horizontal position has its second connector (118) engaged with the lower engagement member (130) of a horizontal support, and the frame member disposed in the lowermost horizontal position has 2o its first connector (116) engaged with the upper engagement member (128) of the downwardly adjacent horizontal support (8).
In the preferred embodiment illustrated for example in figures 3 and 4, the mounting portion (114) of each frame member has an S-shaped cross-section, which forms two opposed hooks, respectively defining the first (116) and second connector (116). In this manner the panel structures (2) are mounted on the horizontal supports (8) by simply hooking the connectors (116,118) on the upper (128) and lower (130) engagement members of adjacent horizontal supports (8).
Figures 9A, 9B and 9C illustrate another preferred embodiment according to the present invention. In this embodiment, for the mounting portion (114) of each 3o frame member, the second connector (118) forms a hook adapted to engage the upper engagement member (128) of the lower horizontal support (8) which extends g vertically for this purpose. The first connector (116) is shaped as a substantially horizontal limb extending from the second connector (118) and projecting away from the panel (5). The lower engagement member (13) has a horizontally extending portion on which the horizontal limb is adapted to rest. In this manner, the panel structure (2) is mountable on the wall (3) by first slightly tilting the panel (5), and engaging the second connector (118) associated with the edge of the panel lying in the lowermost horizontal position on the vertically extending engagement member (128) of the lower support (8), and then rotating the panel structure (2) around the same vertically extending engagement member (118) toward the wall (3) to engage 1 o the first connector (116) associated with the edge of the panel lying in the uppermost horizontal position on the horizontally extending engagement member (130) of the upper horizontal support (8).
Referring to anyone of Figures 3 to 7, the panel structure (2) preferably further comprises a strip of sealing material (126), fixed to at least one frame member ( 110,112,122 or 124). Each strip ( 126) extends outwards from the edge along which the corresponding frame member is secured. More specifically, each strip of sealing material (126) has an end portion inserted in a gasket pocket (127) defined in the corresponding frame member. As evident from figures 3 to 6, when the panel structures (2) are mounted on the wall (3) side by side, the strips (126) from 2 o neighbouring panel structures (2) contact each other, filling the space between the panels for a more uniform look. Advantageously, when the panel (5) is provided with a strip (126) on each of its sides, no intermittent space can be seen from outside of the exterior wall (3).
Referring now to figure 7, there is shown the upper portion of a panel 2 5 structure (2) of the uppermost row of a building panel system according to the present invention. Preferably, the top of the building is covered with a parapet (6), having a horizontal portion (132) covering the top of the building and a vertical portion (134) extending in alignment with the panel structure (2). In the illustrated embodiment, the parapet (6) is provided with a frame member (136) fixed to the back 3o surface (138) thereof, the frame member (136) being similar to those of the panel structures (2). In this manner, the parapet (6) is mounted on the upper engagement member (128) of the higher horizontal support (8), allowing for a smooth transition at the top of the building.
With reference to figure 8, there is shown the lower portion of a panel structure (2) of the lowest row of a building panel system. Preferably, the lowest horizontal support (8) has only an upper engagement member (128), which engages the first connector (116) of the lowest vertically extending frame member of the panel structures (2) of the lowest row of panel structures (2).
As can be appreciated, a panel structure according to the present invention and more particularly to the preferred embodiment described herein has no specific l0 orientation. Each panel is vertically mountable on the wall with either of its edges lying in an uppermost horizontal position. Therefore, the construction of a building panel system with such panel structures can be done very rapidly. Moreover, this system is easily adaptable for panels made of various materials, and even allow to build a panel wall where different panels may be made of different materials.
Of course, numerous modifications could be made to the preferred embodiments disclosed hereinabove without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.
Claims (16)
1. A panel structure for covering a wall, comprising:
a panel having a front surface and a back surface, a first edge and a second edge parallel to the first edge;
a first frame member secured to the back surface of the panel and extending along the first edge thereof;
and a second frame member secured to the back surface of the panel and extending along the second edge thereof, the first and the second frame member each comprising a universal mounting portion, the mounting portion of the first and second frame member projecting away from the panel in longitudinal mirror symmetry to each other, each mounting portion defining a first and a second connector, the first connector of each mounting portion being adapted to engage an upper horizontal support fixed on the wall as the edge of the panel associated with said first connector lies in an uppermost horizontal position, and the second connector of each mounting portion being adapted to engage a lower horizontal support as the edge of the panel associated with said second connector lies in a lowermost horizontal position;
whereby the panel structure is vertically mountable on the wall with either one of the first and the second edge lying in the uppermost horizontal position; and wherein, for the mounting portion of each of the first and second frame members, the second connector forms a hook adapted to engage a vertically extending engagement member of the lower support, and the first connector comprises a substantially horizontal limb extending from the second connector and projecting away from the panel, said horizontal limb being adapted to rest on a horizontally extending engagement member of the upper horizontal support, whereby the panel structure is mountable on the wall by first slightly tilting the panel and engaging the second connector associated with the edge of the panel lying in the lowermost horizontal position on the vertically extending engagement member of the lower support, and then rotating the panel structure around said vertically extending engagement member toward the wall to engage the first connector associated with the edge of the panel lying in the uppermost horizontal position on the horizontally extending engagement member of the upper horizontal support.
a panel having a front surface and a back surface, a first edge and a second edge parallel to the first edge;
a first frame member secured to the back surface of the panel and extending along the first edge thereof;
and a second frame member secured to the back surface of the panel and extending along the second edge thereof, the first and the second frame member each comprising a universal mounting portion, the mounting portion of the first and second frame member projecting away from the panel in longitudinal mirror symmetry to each other, each mounting portion defining a first and a second connector, the first connector of each mounting portion being adapted to engage an upper horizontal support fixed on the wall as the edge of the panel associated with said first connector lies in an uppermost horizontal position, and the second connector of each mounting portion being adapted to engage a lower horizontal support as the edge of the panel associated with said second connector lies in a lowermost horizontal position;
whereby the panel structure is vertically mountable on the wall with either one of the first and the second edge lying in the uppermost horizontal position; and wherein, for the mounting portion of each of the first and second frame members, the second connector forms a hook adapted to engage a vertically extending engagement member of the lower support, and the first connector comprises a substantially horizontal limb extending from the second connector and projecting away from the panel, said horizontal limb being adapted to rest on a horizontally extending engagement member of the upper horizontal support, whereby the panel structure is mountable on the wall by first slightly tilting the panel and engaging the second connector associated with the edge of the panel lying in the lowermost horizontal position on the vertically extending engagement member of the lower support, and then rotating the panel structure around said vertically extending engagement member toward the wall to engage the first connector associated with the edge of the panel lying in the uppermost horizontal position on the horizontally extending engagement member of the upper horizontal support.
2. A panel structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the panel has a third edge perpendicular to the first and second edges and a fourth edge parallel to the third edge, the panel structure further comprising:
a third frame member secured to the back surface of the panel and extending along the third edge thereof;
and a fourth frame member secured to the back surface of the panel and extending along the fourth edge thereof, the third and the fourth frame member each comprising a universal mounting portion as defined in claim 1, whereby the panel structure is vertically mountable on the wall with either one of the first, the second, the third and the fourth edge lying in an uppermost horizontal position, and wherein, for the mounting portion of each of the third and fourth frame members, the second connector forms a hook adapted to engage a vertically extending engagement member of the Lower support, and the first connector comprises a substantially horizontal limb extending from the second connector and projecting away from the panel, said horizontal limb being adapted to rest on a horizontally extending engagement member of the upper horizontal support.
a third frame member secured to the back surface of the panel and extending along the third edge thereof;
and a fourth frame member secured to the back surface of the panel and extending along the fourth edge thereof, the third and the fourth frame member each comprising a universal mounting portion as defined in claim 1, whereby the panel structure is vertically mountable on the wall with either one of the first, the second, the third and the fourth edge lying in an uppermost horizontal position, and wherein, for the mounting portion of each of the third and fourth frame members, the second connector forms a hook adapted to engage a vertically extending engagement member of the Lower support, and the first connector comprises a substantially horizontal limb extending from the second connector and projecting away from the panel, said horizontal limb being adapted to rest on a horizontally extending engagement member of the upper horizontal support.
3. A panel structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the panel is made of aluminium, and each frame member is secured to the back surface thereof by means of screws.
4. A panel structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the panel is made of tympan glass, and each frame member is secured to the back surface thereof by bonding.
5. A panel structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the panel is made of concrete, and each frame member is secured to the back surface thereof by means of screws.
6. A panel structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the panel is made of granite, and each frame member is secured to the back surface thereof by means of bonding.
7. A panel structure as claim in claim 1, further comprising a strip of sealing material fixed to at least one frame member, each strip extending outwardly from the edge along which the frame member is secured.
8. A building panel system covering the exterior wall surface of a building, comprising:
a plurality of horizontal supports fixed to the exterior wall, each horizontal support having an upper engagement member and a lower engagement member, and a plurality of panel structures as defined in claim 1 mounted side-by-side on the horizontal supports to define rows of panel structures, each panel structure of a row having one of the first and second frame members engaged with the lower engaging member of a horizontal support, and the frame member opposed to the one of the first and second frame member engaged with the upper engaging member of a downwardly adjacent horizontal support.
a plurality of horizontal supports fixed to the exterior wall, each horizontal support having an upper engagement member and a lower engagement member, and a plurality of panel structures as defined in claim 1 mounted side-by-side on the horizontal supports to define rows of panel structures, each panel structure of a row having one of the first and second frame members engaged with the lower engaging member of a horizontal support, and the frame member opposed to the one of the first and second frame member engaged with the upper engaging member of a downwardly adjacent horizontal support.
9. A building panel system covering the exterior wall surface of a building, comprising:
a plurality of horizontal supports fixed to the exterior wall, each horizontal support having an upper engagement member and a lower engagement member, and a plurality of panel structures as defined in claim 2 mounted side-by-side on the horizontal supports to define rows of panel structures, each panel structure of a row having one of the first, second, third or fourth frame members engaged with the lower engaging member of a horizontal support, and the frame member opposed to the one of the first, second, third or fourth frame member engaged with the upper engaging member of a downwardly adjacent horizontal support.
a plurality of horizontal supports fixed to the exterior wall, each horizontal support having an upper engagement member and a lower engagement member, and a plurality of panel structures as defined in claim 2 mounted side-by-side on the horizontal supports to define rows of panel structures, each panel structure of a row having one of the first, second, third or fourth frame members engaged with the lower engaging member of a horizontal support, and the frame member opposed to the one of the first, second, third or fourth frame member engaged with the upper engaging member of a downwardly adjacent horizontal support.
10. A building panel system as claimed in claim 9, wherein at least one of the panel structures is made of aluminium.
11. A building panel system as claimed in claim 10, wherein at least one of the panel structures is made of tympan glass.
12. A building panel system as claimed in claim 9, wherein at least one of the panel structures is made of concrete.
13. A building panel system as claimed in claim 12, wherein at least one of the panel structures is made of granite.
14. A building panel system as claimed in claim 9, wherein at least one of the panel structures is made of aluminum, at least one of the panel structures is made of tympan glass, at least one of the panel structures is made of concrete, and at least one of the panel structures is made of granite.
15. A panel structure for covering a wall, comprising:
a panel having a front surface and a back surface, a first edge and a second edge parallel to the first edge:
a first frame member secured to the back surface of the panel and extending along the first edge thereof;
and a second frame member secured to the back surface of the panel and extending along the second edge thereof, the first and the second frame member each comprising a universal mounting portion, the mounting portion of the first and second frame member projecting away from the panel in longitudinal mirror symmetry to each other, each mounting portion defining a first and a second connector, the first connector of each mounting portion being adapted to engage an upper horizontal support fixed on the wall as the edge of the panel associated with said first connector lies in an uppermost horizontal position, and the second connector of each mounting portion being adapted to engage a lower horizontal support as the edge of the panel associated with said second connector lies in a lowermost horizontal position;
whereby the panel structure is vertically mountable on the wall with either one of the first and the second edge lying in the uppermost horizontal positions and wherein the mounting portion of the first and second frame member has a S-shape cross-section forming two opposed hooks, the opposed hooks respectively defining the first and second connector of each mounting portion.
a panel having a front surface and a back surface, a first edge and a second edge parallel to the first edge:
a first frame member secured to the back surface of the panel and extending along the first edge thereof;
and a second frame member secured to the back surface of the panel and extending along the second edge thereof, the first and the second frame member each comprising a universal mounting portion, the mounting portion of the first and second frame member projecting away from the panel in longitudinal mirror symmetry to each other, each mounting portion defining a first and a second connector, the first connector of each mounting portion being adapted to engage an upper horizontal support fixed on the wall as the edge of the panel associated with said first connector lies in an uppermost horizontal position, and the second connector of each mounting portion being adapted to engage a lower horizontal support as the edge of the panel associated with said second connector lies in a lowermost horizontal position;
whereby the panel structure is vertically mountable on the wall with either one of the first and the second edge lying in the uppermost horizontal positions and wherein the mounting portion of the first and second frame member has a S-shape cross-section forming two opposed hooks, the opposed hooks respectively defining the first and second connector of each mounting portion.
16. A panel structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the panel has a third edge perpendicular to the first and second edges and a fourth edge parallel to the third edge, the panel structure further comprising:
a third frame member secured to the back surface of the panel and extending along the third edge thereof;
and a fourth frame member secured to the back surface of the panel and extending along the fourth edge thereof, the third and the fourth frame member each comprising a universal mounting portion, as defined in claim 1, whereby the panel structure is vertically mountable on the wall with either one of the first, the second, the third and the fourth edge lying in an uppermost horizontal position, and wherein the mounting portion of the first, the second, the third and the fourth frame member has an S-shape cross-section forming two opposed hooks, the opposed hooks respectively defining the first and second connector of each mounting portion.
a third frame member secured to the back surface of the panel and extending along the third edge thereof;
and a fourth frame member secured to the back surface of the panel and extending along the fourth edge thereof, the third and the fourth frame member each comprising a universal mounting portion, as defined in claim 1, whereby the panel structure is vertically mountable on the wall with either one of the first, the second, the third and the fourth edge lying in an uppermost horizontal position, and wherein the mounting portion of the first, the second, the third and the fourth frame member has an S-shape cross-section forming two opposed hooks, the opposed hooks respectively defining the first and second connector of each mounting portion.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002261224A CA2261224C (en) | 1998-02-23 | 1999-02-16 | Panel structure |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002227687A CA2227687A1 (en) | 1998-02-23 | 1998-02-23 | Exterior wall system |
| CA2,227,687 | 1998-02-23 | ||
| CA002261224A CA2261224C (en) | 1998-02-23 | 1999-02-16 | Panel structure |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2261224A1 CA2261224A1 (en) | 1999-08-23 |
| CA2261224C true CA2261224C (en) | 2006-11-28 |
Family
ID=29585069
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002261224A Expired - Lifetime CA2261224C (en) | 1998-02-23 | 1999-02-16 | Panel structure |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2261224C (en) |
Families Citing this family (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CA2704067C (en) | 2009-05-19 | 2017-01-24 | Groupe Lessard Inc. | Pressure plate assembly for curtain wall panels |
| CN114319768B (en) * | 2021-12-30 | 2024-03-01 | 华诚建设集团有限公司 | Environment-friendly dry-hanging structure for decorative veneer and mounting method |
-
1999
- 1999-02-16 CA CA002261224A patent/CA2261224C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2261224A1 (en) | 1999-08-23 |
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