EP3931409A1

EP3931409A1 - A system for sheathing a building facade

Info

Publication number: EP3931409A1
Application number: EP20715682.9A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Simon Duus ANDERSEN; Niels Heidtmann
Original assignee: Komproment Holding Af 2007 Aps
Current assignee: Komproment Holding Af 2007 Aps
Priority date: 2019-03-01
Filing date: 2020-02-28
Publication date: 2022-01-05
Anticipated expiration: 2040-02-28
Also published as: WO2020177827A1; EP3931409C0; PL3931409T3; EP3931409B1

Abstract

A system (10) for sheathing a building facade (B), the system (10) comprising a plurality of mounting rails (2,2') as well as a plurality of facade elements (1,1'); - wherein each mounting rail (2,2') comprises, viewed in cross section of the mounting rail's longitudinal direction, an abutment part (20), which is suitable for abutting against the building facade (B), as well as a first supporting protrusion (21) and a second supporting protrusion (22), wherein each supporting protrusion (21,22) further comprises an abutment surface (23,24); each facade element (1,1') comprises a first groove (12) and a second groove (13) arranged for retaining the facade element (1,1') relative to the mounting rail (2,2') and the building facade (B). The system is suitable for being mounted in a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration, the facade elements are mounted, so that their outer surface extends substantially in the same plane when mounted on a plane building facade, such as a vertical outer wall or an inclining roof surface. In the second configuration, the facade elements are mounted to be imbricated, so that each of the facade element's outer surface forms an angle relative to a plane surface on the building facade.

Description

A SYSTEM FOR SHEATHING A BUILDING FACADE

Technical field of the invention

The invention relates to a system for sheathing a building facade, the system comprising a plurality of mounting rails as well as a plurality of facade elements.

Each mounting rail can comprise, viewed in cross section of the mounting rail's longitudinal direction, an abutment part, which is suitable for abutting against the building facade, as well as a first supporting protrusion and a second supporting protrusion, wherein each supporting protrusion further comprises an abutment surface. Each facade element can comprise a first groove and a second groove arranged for retaining the facade element relative to the mounting rail.

The system is suitable for being mounted in a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration, the facade elements are mounted, so that their outer surface extends substantially in the same plane when mounted on a plane building facade, such as a vertical outer wall or an inclining roof surface. In the second configuration, the facade elements are mounted to be imbricated, so that each of the facade element's outer surface forms an angle relative to a plane surface on the building facade.

Background of the invention

In connection with sheathing a building, including a building facade, it is commonly known to use laths or rails, for example of aluminum, on a building facade and subsequently mount facade elements by using a rail system.

From WO 2015067276 A1 a facade mounting system comprising a first rail is known, which first rail comprises means for being mounted on a surface and comprises means for engaging with a second rail, wherein a second rail is substantially arranged in a right angle with the first rail, wherein the second rail comprises means for receiving and attaching mounting clamps for facade sheathing, wherein the first rail has a length and a width, wherein, at least partially along the sides of the rail in the longitudinal direction, flanges are provided with means for engaging with one or more second rails, wherein the second rails comprise means for engaging with a mounting clamp comprising an insertion flange suitable for being inserted into the means of the other rails, and wherein the mounting clamp is also provided with engagement means for engaging mounting clips comprising interacting engagement means. From WO 2016184473 A1 a rail system for mounting facade elements on a facade is known, wherein the rail system comprises an elongated rail with a longitudinal direction, wherein the rail comprises members for indirect mounting on a building facade, wherein the rail further comprises members for the attachment of turning elements on the rail, and wherein the rail system further comprises at least one fixing unit for each opposing facade element, wherein the means for direct or indirect mounting on a facade are constituted by at least one flange element, and wherein the members for attachment of opposing elements to the rail comprise a body part having a contact surface for a backside of an opposing element, wherein the body part comprises at least one first set of attachment means and at least one second set of attachment means, wherein each set of attachment means is adapted for an individual type of attachment units.

Objects of the invention

An object of the invention is to provide a system for sheathing a building facade, wherein the system enables both plane and imbricated mounting of the facade elements for sheathing a building facade, and wherein the system furthermore eliminates the need for the use of glue and/or similar adhesives in connection with assembly of the building elements. Another object of the invention is to provide a system for sheathing a building facade, wherein the mounting parts are standard parts as well as a system making it possible to replace a single facade element or one row of facade elements, without having to dismount a large number of facade elements for that reason. Yet another object of the invention is to provide a system, wherein the production tolerances for facade elements as well as the mounting tolerances in fitting and assembly can be offset, as tolerances are integrated into both the form of mounting rails and the form of the facade elements. Description of the invention

In this context, the term’’facade element” is used for describing an element, which can be used for assembly of said system in connection with sheathing either a facade of a building and/or for sheathing a roof construction. The facade element can be hand-made or manufactured by using a machine, such as a casting machine or an extrusion machine. The facade element can be made of one or more of the following materials: tile, eternite, glass, wood, polymer, composite, fibre composite or concrete. Alternatively, the facade element can be constituted by a panel, such as a solar panel. In this context, the term’’mounting rail” is used for describing an element, which can be used for assembly of said system in connection with sheathing either a facade of a building and/or for sheathing a roof construction. The mounting rail is shaped to be able to retain said’’facade element”. The mounting rail can be made of metal, including aluminum and other alloys, composite and the like.

In this context, the term’’groove” is used as indication of a bore, cut-out, milling or any other type of removal of the relevant material or a notch, a recess or the like, which in similar way emerges by omitting the relevant material. The groove can be hand-made, machine-made, cast, extruded or the like.

In this connection, the term’’gasket” is used as indication of a device that is placed between the facade element and the mounting rail, wherein the gasket is intended to ensure that the relevant parts do not damage each other in movements as a consequence of for example temperature changes, environmental impact such as wind, weather, mechanical vibrations or similar impacts.

According to a first aspect of the invention, the object stated above is obtained with a system for sheathing a building facade, wherein the system comprises a plurality of mounting rails as well as a plurality of facade elements.

Each mounting rail can comprise, viewed in cross section of the mounting rail's longitudinal direction, an abutment part, which is suitable for abutting against the building facade, as well as a first supporting protrusion and a second supporting protrusion, wherein each supporting protrusion further comprises an abutment surface, and wherein the abutment surface is shaped in a first distance from the abutment part, while the second abutment surface is shaped in a second distance, and wherein the second distance is smaller than the first distance. Each facade element can comprise a first groove and a second groove, arranged for retaining one or more facade elements relative to the mounting rail, a front configured to be facing away from the mounting rail and a backside configured to be facing towards the mounting rail, wherein the backside comprises one or more projecting parts, wherein a first projecting part comprises the first groove.

The system can be suitable for mounting in a first configuration, wherein the facade elements are mounted in parallel with the building facade, so that the front of the facade elements extends substantially in the same plane when mounted on a plane building facade or in a second configuration, wherein the facade elements are mounted so that they form an angle relative to a plane surface on the building facade, and wherein the facade elements partially overlap each other.

According to a first alternative aspect of the invention, the object stated above is obtained with a system for sheathing a building facade, wherein the system comprises a plurality of mounting rails as well as a plurality of facade elements,

- wherein each mounting rail comprises, viewed in cross section of the mounting rail's longitudinal direction, an abutment part, which is suitable for abutting against the building facade, as well as a first supporting protrusion and a second supporting protrusion, wherein each supporting protrusion further com- prises an abutment surface;

each facade element comprises a first groove and a second groove arranged for retaining the facade element relative to the mounting rail and the building facade;

- the system is suitable for being mounted in a first configuration and a second configuration,

- wherein the system for mounting according to the first configuration is arranged, so that the first supporting protrusion is arranged to engage with the second groove in the facade element, and the second supporting protrusion is arranged to engage with the first groove, whereby the outer surface of the facade elements extend substantially in the same plane when mounted on a plane building facade, such as a vertical outer wall or an inclining roof surface, and

- wherein the system for the mounting according to the second configuration is arranged, so that the first supporting protrusion is arranged to engage with the first groove of the facade element, while the backside of each facade element is supported by the abutment surface on the second supporting protrusion, whereby the facade elements are imbricated so that each facade element's outer surface forms an angle relative to a plane surface on the building facade.

In the following, the system for sheathing a building facade will also be mentioned just as the mounting system or the system.

One advantage of the embodiments outlined above can be that it is possible to use a system consisting of a plurality of mounting rails as well as a plurality of facade elements, wherein the fitter in connection with the fitting and sheathing a building face will not have to take into consideration manufacturing tolerances for the individual facade element, as a flexibility is built into the system due exactly to the circumstance that manufacturing tolerances may occur on the facade elements. The facade ele- ments can be made of tile, eternite or similar material, implying that the manufacturing method can cause some inherent inaccuracies. This system can compensate for these manufacturing-related inaccuracies. Thus, manufacturing-related inaccuracies will not have to be taken into consideration in connection with assembly and fitting of facade elements.

Another advantage of the embodiments can be that a mounting system is provided, which can be mounted without the use of glue and/or other adhesives.

An instruction for a mounting system is provided, wherein the same building facade can be sheathed with one and the same system, as the present invention provides a system for sheathing a building facade, wherein the system will comprise a plurality of mounting rails as well as a plurality of facade elements, wherein the system is suitable for being mounted in a first configuration and a second configuration, including wherein it is possible to combine the two configurations for different sections of the same building facade.

Furthermore, the invention can offer the possibility of using a facade element for both imbricated assembly as well as plane assembly, wherein the facade elements and the mounting rails have the same orientation in both configurations.

Alternatively, the invention can offer the possibility of using a facade element for both imbricated assembly as well as plane assembly by turning the mounting rail 180 de- grees.

The facade element can optionally be processed/adapted, for example by removing part of the element, whereby it can be used in connection with replacement or fitting of new sheathing. However, such processing is not necessary for the facade elements to be used in connection with replacement or fitting of a new sheathing.

Moreover, a mounting system has been specified, which makes it possible to no longer use laths, the mounting rail functioning as both lath and rail in connection with mounting of a facade element relative to the building.

In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a system, wherein the abutment surface on the first supporting protrusion provides and forms a first abutment plane for each facade element, and wherein the abutment surface on the second supporting protrusion provides and forms a second abutment plane for the facade element, wherein the first abutment plane and the second abutment plane are parallel relative to each other.

The advantage of this embodiment is that it provides a mounting rail, wherein the mounting rail is arranged to be used for both plane and imbricated mounting of a building facade, the mounting rail comprising two abutment planes, which can engage each with their groove on two facade elements, which are adjacent. In one aspect of the system, the abutment surface is shaped in a first distance from the abutment part, while the second abutment surface is shaped in a second distance, and wherein the second distance is smaller than the first distance. The advantage of this embodiment is that it provides a mounting rail, which is especially arranged for imbricated mounting (clinker assembly) of facade elements on a building facade, the mounting rail comprising one supporting protrusion, which can engage with a first groove on the facade element. In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a system, wherein the abutment surface on the first supporting protrusion provides and forms a first abutment plane for each facade element, and wherein the abutment surface on the second supporting protrusion provides and forms a second abutment plane for the facade element, wherein the second abutment plane is angled relative to the first abutment plane.

The advantage of this embodiment is that it provides a mounting rail, which is especially arranged for imbricated mounting (clinker assembly) of facade elements on a building facade, the mounting rail comprising one supporting protrusions, which can engage with a first groove on the facade element to be fitted up, while the very same mounting rail comprises an abutment surface, which is arranged to support the backside of a facade element placed on a lower row, which has previously been fitted.

In a further aspect, the present invention relates to a system, wherein each of the supporting protrusions extends in a direction opposite each other.

The advantage of this embodiment is that it provides a mounting rail, which is arranged to be used for both plane and imbricated mounting, the mounting rail comprising two supporting protrusions, which can engage each with their groove on two respective facade elements, which are lying close to each other (adjacent).

In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a system, wherein the first supporting protrusion comprises a further third supporting protrusion, which extends in a direction opposite to the first supporting protrusion. Thus, direct mounting and retaining of each facade element are possible relative to a mounting rail without the use of a sleeve, list, gasket or similar element, as each of the facade elements can abut against the mounting rail directly.

In another aspect, the present invention relates to a system for sheathing a building facade, wherein the system can comprise a plurality of mounting clips.

A mounting clip can comprise a grappler arm and a facade part connected via a clip joint, whereby the grappler arm and the facade part can be rotated pivotably relative to each other about the clip joint from a first end position to a second end position via deformation of the joint.

Furthermore, the system can comprise that the second supporting protrusion on the mounting rail comprises a clip mounting protrusion with a mounting surface, wherein the clip mounting protrusion can be arranged in an angle on the second supporting protrusion with a direction pointing towards the mounting rail.

The grappler arm can be formed as a snap- fit lock arranged to receive the clip mounting protrusion and the second supporting protrusion and lock thereto via contact to the abutment surface and the mounting surface.

The facade part can be arranged to support the backside of the facade elements.

Snap-fit is a well-known expression of a mounting method used for mounting a flexible part onto another part, so that they lock into each other by pushing the parts together. En snap-fit lock is an alternative to joining by means of nails or screws and has the advantage that a quick locking is obtained without the use of components. Another advantage of using a snap-fit lock can be that the area around the parts to lock into each other can be reduced as it is not necessary to make room for access with a screwdriver, a hammer or other tools.

One effect of this embodiment can be that the clip functions as a flexible mounting fixture, which evens out any mounting an manufacturing inaccuracies in the system via the flexibility inherent in the clip joint. The flexibility can reduce or render superfluous the use of sleeves, lists, gaskets or the like, which can act as flexible intermediate layers both during mounting and in use. The flexibility can also have the advantage that the facade elements can be dismounted and replaced without adaptation.

Yet another effect can be that the mounting clips can be mounted without the use of tools and other components. The mounting clips can be mounted on the mounting rail, wherein, via the grappler arm, they lock onto the mounting rail, subsequently the facade elements can be hitched on. An advantage of this embodiment can comprise that the mounting work is simplified, as no further components are included and no tools are to be used. It is often seen that mounting of fixtures requires that the fitter must have access to narrow spaces around the fixture to be able to attach it properly, this is avoided with the snap-fit lock. Moreover, the snap-fit lock ensures that the mounting clip is kept in place and is properly fitted once it has been clipped onto the mounting rail. The fitter thus has both hands free for mounting the facade element. Yet another advantage can be that the risk of damage due to lost components during the mounting work can be reduced.

The mounting clips can be formed with a facade part, which supports a given configuration of the facade sheathing, for example plane or imbricated, without changing the orientation of the mounting rail.

In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a system for sheathing a building facade, wherein the facade elements can comprise two or more projecting parts, wherein a first projecting part comprises the first groove and a second projecting part comprises a second groove,

An effect of this embodiment can be that one and the same form of the facade element offers the possibility of both plane or imbricated facade sheathing. Thus, the system can be manufactured and delivered without taking into consideration the desired configuration of facade sheathing. An advantage for the manufacturer and the supplier can be less storage capacity and reduced complexity in the manufacturing and reduced stocks. Moreover, the advantage of the system for the user can be that the configuration can be changed and hence the visual expression of a facade. Yet another advantage is that the same sub-elements can be used on a building, where both configurations are desired, e.g. with imbricated sheathing on the roof and plane mounting on walls.

In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a mounting rail for use in a system for sheathing a building facade, wherein the mounting rail comprises, viewed in cross section of the mounting rail's longitudinal direction, an abutment part, which is suitable for abutting against the building facade, as well as a first supporting protrusion and a second supporting protrusion, wherein each supporting protrusion further comprises an abutment surface;

A system for sheathing a building facade can correspond to the embodiments described above or in the following detailed description below.

The effects and advantages of this embodiment of the mounting rail can correspond to the effects and advantages already described either individually or in combination for the various embodiments of the system for sheathing a building facade.

In one embodiment of the mounting rail, the abutment surface is shaped in a first distance from the abutment part, while the second abutment surface is shaped in a second distance, and wherein the second distance is smaller than the first distance.

Yet another advantage of this embodiment is that it provides a mounting rail, which is especially arranged for imbricated mounting (clinker assembly) of facade elements on a building facade, the mounting rail comprising one supporting protrusion, which can engage with the first groove on the facade element.

In an embodiment, the mounting rail can further comprise a clip mounting protrusion arranged on the second supporting protrusion, wherein the clip mounting protrusion comprises a clip abutment surface.

A further effect of this embodiment is that a mounting clip with a snap-fit function can be mounted thereon. The effects and advantages of such embodiment can correspond to those already described either individually or in combination in connection with the embodiments of the system for sheathing a building facade, comprising a mounting clip.

In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a facade element for use in a system for sheathing a building facade, wherein the facade element can comprise a first groove and a second groove, arranged for retention relative to a mounting rail. The facade element can further comprise a front configured to face away from the mounting rail and a backside configured to face towards the mounting rail. The backside can comprise one or more projecting parts, wherein a first projecting part com- prises the first groove.

A system for sheathing a building facade can correspond to the embodiments described above or in the following detailed description below. The effects and advantages of this embodiment of the facade element can correspond to the effects and advantages already described either individually or in combination for the various embodiments of the system for sheathing a building facade.

In yet another embodiment, the facade element can comprise the second groove in a second projecting part.

In one aspect, the projecting parts can be formed and arranged so that a given distance is obtained between the first groove and the second groove. This distance can be measured in a direction perpendicularly on the front of the facade element or in a plane in parallel with the front of the facade. Likewise, the projecting elements can have different sizes and distances to the backside of the facade element. Alternatively, the facade element can comprise multiple projecting parts, comprising a first, a second and a third projecting part. In an example of an embodiment, the facade element can be formed, so that the first projecting part comprises the first groove, the second projecting part can comprise the second groove and the third projecting part can have an extent, wherein this part projects from the backside with a larger distance that the first and/or the second projecting part. The distance between the grooves can be adjusted, so that plane and/or imbricated mounting of the facade elements can be obtained. In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for mounting of a system for sheathing a building facade. The method can comprise the following method steps: - mounting of a first mounting rail, wherein the mounting rail is attached to a building facade by using screws, nails or the like, allowing the mounting rail to be attached and retained to a building facade;

- mounting of a first row of facade elements on the attached mounting rail by positioning the individual facade element on the mounting rail, so that one of the first or the second supporting protrusion engage with the first groove shaped on the facade element. In an embodiment, the method can further comprise a method step of mounting a mounting clip on the second supporting protrusion of the mounting rail.

In one aspect, the method further comprises a method step of attaching a further mounting rail to the building facade by using a number of screws, nails or the like, mounted so that the further mounting rail's second supporting protrusion or the mounting clip's facade part engages with the second groove on one or more facade elements on the first row of mounted facade elements.

In a second aspect, the method can further comprise a method step of positioning the individual facade element, so that the mounting clip's facade part engages with or supports the facade element in the second groove shaped on the backside of the facade element or of another projecting part.

In yet another embodiment, the method may comprise that the method steps are re- peated until the building facade is sheathed with the desired number of facade elements.

A system for sheathing a building facade can correspond to the embodiments described above or in the following detailed description below. The effects and advantages of the methods for mounting a system for sheathing a building facade can correspond to the effects and advantages already described either individually or in combination for the various embodiments of the system for sheathing a building facade.

Brief description of figures

In the description of the figures, identical or corresponding elements will have the same reference numerals in the different figures. Thus, an explanation of all details in connection with each figure and/or embodiment will not be given.

Fig. 1 shows a system for sheathing a building facade, wherein the facade elements are fitted flatly relative to a building facade.

Fig. 2A-2B show a system for sheathing a building facade, wherein the facade ele- ments are imbricated relative to a building facade.

Figs 3A-3B show two different variants of the mounting rail.

Fig. 4 shows a sheathing, wherein the facade elements are imbricated.

Fig. 5 shows a second sheathing, wherein the facade elements are imbricated.

Fig. 6A and 6B show two potential forms of sleeves used for clatter safeguard. Fig. 7 shows three different mountings of the system in connection with a window. Fig. 8 shows four different assemblies of the system in connection with a window.

Fig. 9A-9C show an embodiment of a step-by-step assembly of the system, wherein the facade elements are flatly mounted, so that their fronts extend in the same plane. Fig. 10 shows an embodiment of a step-by-step retrofitting of a facade element, wherein the facade elements are flatly mounted, so that after assembly their fronts extend in the same plane.

Fig. 11 shows an assembly, wherein a further fixture can be used for increasing the distance between the facade elements.

Fig. 12A shows a first variant of a facade element for mounting in connection with sheathing a building facade.

Fig. 12B shows a second variant of a facade element for mounting in connection with sheathing a building facade.

Fig. 13 shows a variant of a mounting rail. Fig. 14A-14D show two embodiments of the mounting clip and two embodiments of the mounting rail arranged for mounting with mounting clips.

Fig. 15A-15B show two embodiments of mounted sheathing, wherein the system comprises mounting clips.

Fig. 16A-16D show two embodiments of the mounting clip and two embodiments of mounted sheathing, wherein the system comprises mounting clips.

Detailed description of the invention

The following reference numerals are used in the detailed part of the description.

1 ,T,1 ^" facade elements

2,2’ mounting rail

7 third projecting part

8 second projecting part

9 first projecting part

10 the system

1 1 projecting part

12, 12’ first groove

13,13’ second groove

14 contact surface one (facade element)

15 contact surface two (facade element)

16 contact surface three (facade element)

20 abutment part

21 first supporting protrusion

22 second supporting protrusion

23 abutment surface (first)

24,24’ abutment surface (second)

25 abutment surface (third)

26 third supporting protrusion

30 sleeve, top

32 sleeve, bottom

34 sleeve, top+bottom

40 mounting fixture

50 window 60 hole

70 mounting clip

72 grappler arm

74 facade part

76 clip joint

80 clip mounting protrusion

82 clip abutment surface

90 front (facade element)

92 backside (facade element)

di first distance

d2 second distance

pi first abutment plane

p₂ second abutment plane

B building facade

The invention will hereafter be explained further in the following with reference to the accompanying drawing.

Fig. 1 shows a system 10 for sheathing a building facade B, wherein the system 10 comprises a plurality of mounting rails 2 as well as a plurality of facade elements 1 , wherein each mounting rail 2, viewed in cross section of the longitudinal direction of the mounting rail, comprises an abutment part 20, which is suitable for abutting against the building facade B, as well as a first supporting protrusion 21 and a second supporting protrusion 22.

With reference to Figs 3A and 3B, a mounting rail 2, 2’ is indicated, wherein each supporting protrusion 21 ,22 further comprises an abutment surface 23,24.

It further appears from Fig. 1 that the facade element 1 comprises a first groove 12 and a second groove 13 arranged for retaining the facade element 1 relative to the mounting rail 2 and the building facade B.

The facade element 1 ,T can be made of tile, eternite, wood, polymer, composite, fibre composite or concrete. It is also possible that the facade element 1 ,T is constituted by a panel, such as a solar panel, which can be suspended in the mounting rail 2,2’. Thus a solution has been specified, which makes it possible to no longer use laths, as the mounting rail 2,2’ replaces the need for a lath, the rail 2,2’ being mounted to the building facade B.

The facade elements are configured with a front 90 and a backside 92. The facade elements are adjusted, so that during mounting the front 90 faces away from the mounting rail, and the backside 92 faces towards the mounting rail. Fig. 1 shows the invention, wherein the system 10 is mounted according to the first configuration, so that the first supporting protrusion 21 is arranged to engage with the second groove 13 in the facade element 1 ,1’, and wherein the second supporting protrusion 22 is arranged to engage with the first groove 12, whereby the outer surface of the facade elements extends substantially in the same plane when mounted on a plane building facade or a plane surface of a building, such as a vertical outer wall or an inclining roof surface.

In the illustrated embodiment, the facade element comprises two projecting parts 10, a first part 9 and a second part 8 on the backside 92. The first projecting part 9 com- prises the first groove 12, and the second part 8 comprises the second groove 13.

Figs 2A-2C show the invention, wherein the system is mounted according to a second configuration, so that the first supporting protrusion 21 engages with the first groove 12 in the facade element 1 , while the backside of a facade element 1 is supported by the abutment surface 24 on the second supporting protrusion 22 (see Fig. 2C in particular), wherein the facade elements 1 are imbricated, so that each of the facade element's outer surface forms an angle relative to a plane surface.

Fig. 2C shows a system for sheathing a building facade, wherein the facade element is in direct contact with the mounting rail, so that each facade element comprises three contact surfaces 14,15,16 for abutment against a corresponding abutment surface 23,24,25 on the mounting rail 2. Thus, direct mounting and retaining of each facade element is possible relative to the mounting rail 2 without the use of a sleeve, list, gasket or similar element, as each of the facade elements can abut against the mounting rail 2 directly.

Figs 3A-3B show two different variants of the mounting rail 2,2’, wherein the first var- iant of the mounting rail 2 illustrated in Fig. 3A comprises an abutment surface 23, which is shaped on the first supporting protrusion 21 , which thereby provides and forms a first abutment plane pi, and wherein the abutment surface 24 on the second supporting protrusion 22 provides and forms a second abutment plane p₂, wherein the first abutment plane pi and the second abutment plane p₂ are parallel relative to each other. Each of the supporting protrusions 21 ,22, extends in a direction opposite each other.

For both variants of the mounting rail 2,2’ as illustrated in Figs 3A-3B, it appears that the first abutment surface 23 is shaped in a first distance di from the abutment part 20, while the second abutment surface 24 is shaped in a second distance d₂ , wherein the second distance d₂ is smaller than the first distance di.

Fig. 3B shows the second variant of the mounting rail 2’, wherein the abutment surface 23 on the first supporting protrusion 21 provides and forms a first abutment plane pi for each facade element 1 ,1’, and wherein the abutment surface 24 on the second supporting protrusion 22 provides and forms a second abutment plane p₂ for the facade element 1 ,1’. In this context, it should be noted that the second supporting protrusion 22 is angled relative to the first supporting protrusion 23, so that it is obtained that the second abutment plane p₂ is angled relative to the first abutment plane pi .

In both variants of the mounting rail 2,2’, the mounting rail can comprise another third supporting protrusion 26 (not shown in Fig. 3A), wherein the third supporting protrusion 26 extends in a direction opposite the first supporting protrusion 21. Fig. 4 shows an embodiment of the sheathing, wherein the facade elements 1 are imbricated. Here a mounting rail with a third supporting protrusion is used. When the first row of the facade elements 1 is to be fitted, it will be possible to turn the mounting rail 2’, so that the third supporting protrusion 26 engages with the first groove 12 on the facade element 1. When the next row is to be fitted, the mounting rail 2’ is being or will be attached to the building facade B. This mounting rail 2’ will have an abutment surface 24’ on the second supporting protrusion 22, which will abut against the backside of each facade element 1 , meaning the side that in a mounted position will face the building facade. When the facade elements 1 ,1’ are imbricated, each of the facade element's outer surface will form an angle relative to a plane surface on the building facade B. The second variant of the mounting rail 2’ is primarily intended for fitting the first row of facade elements is to be fitted. The mounting rail 2’ can be used for imbricated mounting, the mounting rail comprising at least one supporting protrusion 21 , which can engage with a first groove 12 on the facade elements that are to be mounted relative to the building facade B.

Fig. 5 shows a system for sheathing a building facade, wherein the facade elements are imbricated. The method for mounting of a system 10 comprises a plurality of facade elements 1 , T and a plurality of mounting rails 2’, wherein the fitter in a first mounting step mounts a first mounting rail 2’, which is attached to a building surface B (not shown) by using screws, nails or the like, allowing attachment and retention of the mounting rail 2’ to the building surface B. For the sake of clarity, reference is made to Fig. 3B as regards the positions on the mounting fixture. In a subsequent mounting step, the fitter can fit and mount a first row of facade elements 1 on the attached mounting rail 2’ by positioning the individual facade element 1 overthe first supporting protrusion 21 on the mounting rail 2’. This will result in the supporting protrusion 21 on the mounting rail engaging with the first groove 12, which is shaped on the facade element 1 , i.e. on the facade element, which is being mounted on the building facade. Figs 6A and 6B show two potential forms of a sleeve or several sleeves. For all the shown systems, it is possible to use a number of sleeves 30,32,34 or gaskets, which are formed so that it can be placed in between the first groove 12 and the first supporting protrusion 21 and/or between the second groove 13 and the second supporting protrusion 22. In one embodiment of the system, the sleeves 30,32,34 can be placed directly on the supporting protrusions 21 ,22,26 in connection with assembly of the facade elements, while the sleeves 30,32,34 according to another method can be placed directly in the grooves 12,13 in connection with assembly of the facade elements 1 ,T. Fig. 7 and 8 show three and 4 different embodiments, respectively, and mounting of the system in connection with a window. In connection with sheathing a building facade, it must be possible to mount around a window 50 on the building facade. Therefore, it may be necessary to shorten some of the facade elements 1. Here it will be an advantage if it is possible to bore a hole in the individual facade element, so that in connection with assembly of a row of facade elements, e.g. above or below a window, a pin can be used, which can be inserted in the individual hole. The combination of a hole and a number of pins, which are inserted in the holes can function as guides in connection with assembly of the lowermost row.

Fig. 9 shows an embodiment of a step-by-step assembly of the system, wherein the facade elements are flatly mounted, so that their fronts extend in the same plane. The method for mounting a system 10, comprising a plurality of facade elements 1 and a plurality of mounting rails 2, will comprise a first mounting step, wherein a first mounting rail 2 is mounted and attached to the building facade B by use of screws, nails or the like, allowing the mounting rail 2 to be attached to the building surface B. In a subsequent mounting step, a first row of facade elements 1 are fitted and mounted on the attached mounting rail 2 by positioning the individual facade element over the second supporting protrusion 22 on the mounting rail 2. This will result in the second supporting protrusion 22 on the mounting rail engaging with the first groove 12. In this manner, the facade element 1 will be continuously supported in connection with mounting on the building facade B. In yet another mounting step, a next and subsequent mounting rail 2 is attached to the building facade B by use of a number of screws, nails or the like. The mounting rail 2 is shaped with a first supporting protrusion 22 suitable to engage with the second groove 13 shaped on the facade element 1 on the first row of mounted facade elements 1. The mounting rail is mounted so that the first supporting protrusion 21 en- gages with the second groove 13 on the facade elements 1 on the first row of mounted facade elements 1. In a subsequent mounting step, as shown in Fig. 9C the fitter can mount the next row of facade elements 1 on the attached next and subsequent mounting rail 2 by positioning each facade element 1 over the second supporting protrusion 22 on the attached next and subsequent mounting rail 2 according to the above-mentioned steps, so that the second supporting protrusion 22 engages with the first groove 12 on the facade element. The steps mentioned above are repeated, until the building facade B is sheathed with the desired number of facade elements 1.

Fig. 10 shows a retrofitting or replacement of facade elements from a building facade. The method may comprise the following method steps, depending on whether retrofitting or replacement of the facade elements are made: dismounting of one or more facade elements, fixing a mounting fixture 40 on the mounting rail 2, wherein the mounting fixture 40 is attached to the mounting rail 2 by use of screws, nails or the like, and wherein the mounting fixture 40 is arranged to interact with one of the sup- porting protrusions 22,21 , so that it is possible to mount a facade element 1 on an existing mounting rail 2 relative to the existing building facade B, and mounting of the facade element by the facade element being guided over a supporting protrusion on the mounting rail 2, so that the facade element engages with the mounting fixture and a supporting protrusion.

Fig. 1 1 shows an embodiment of an assembly, wherein a further fixture can be used for increasing the distance between the facade elements 1. Here the mounting fixture 40 functions as an extension of a supporting protrusion, here the second supporting protrusion 22. In an alternative embodiment, the mounting fixture could be mounted on the first supporting protrusion 21.

Fig. 12A shows a first embodiment of a facade element 1 for use in connection with sheathing a building facade B, wherein the facade element comprises a first groove 12 and a second groove 13, arranged for retaining relative to a mounting rail 2,2’ and a building facade B. The grooves are shaped in a first projecting part 9 and a second projecting part 8, respectively, shaped on the backside of the facade element. Fig. 12B shows a second embodiment of a facade element 1’ for use in connection with sheathing a building facade B. The facade element T is formed with two projecting parts 8,9 shaped on the backside, i.e. the side facing towards the building facade B in a mounted position. The two projecting parts 8,9 are shaped to ensure a distance between the first groove 12 and the second groove 13. The distance between the first groove 12 and the second groove 13 is indicated perpendicularly on and relative to the the front of the facade element and is shaped so that the distance is different for the two grooves. The difference between the first and the second embodiment of the facade elements 1 ,T is thus to be found in a distance piece being shaped in the facade element T, enabling the projecting part 9 and hence the groove 12’ to be placed at another distance to the facade than for the facade element 1 . The projecting part 8 has the same geometric form on both variants of the facade element 1 , T.

In a mounted position, the groove 12 can be arranged at the same distance to the building facade B. This means that the facade element T of the type shown in Fig. 12B can be angled much more than when using a number of facade elements 1 as shown in Fig. 12A. Thus, two different imbricated configurations are obtained.

Fig. 13 shows an embodiment of a mounting rail 2’ with a form, comprising guide grooves at the abutment part 20. These can be used in connection with mounting of several mounting rails 20 in extension of one another. Insertion of guide pins in the guide grooves can help adjust the mounting rails, so that they are mounted in line.

Fig. 14A-14D show two embodiments of the mounting clip and two embodiments of the mounting rail arranged for mounting of mounting clips.

Figs 14A and 14B show two further embodiments of the mounting rail 2. The mounting rail in Fig. 4B comprises guide grooves, like the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 13. The mounting rail in Fig. 14A is without guide grooves. Both embodiments correspond to the embodiments of the mounting rail 2 described and illustrated above, with an abutment part, a first abutment surface shaped on the first supporting protrusion and a second abutment surface shaped on the second supporting protrusion. For both embodiments, the supporting protrusions extend in the same direction, and the second supporting protrusion on the mounting rail comprises a clip mounting protrusion 80 with a mounting surface 82. The clip mounting protrusion 80 is arranged in an angle on the second supporting protrusion 22, so that the clip mounting protrusion 80 points in a direction in towards the mounting rail.

Both embodiments of the mounting rail 2 can comprise a further third supporting protrusion (not shown here), wherein the third supporting protrusion extends in a direction opposite the first supporting protrusion.

Fig. 14C-14D show two embodiments of the mounting clip 70. They are both formed to comprise a grappler arm 72 and a facade part 74. The grappler arm 72 and the facade part 74 are connected via a clip joint 76, whereby the grappler arm 72 and the facade part 74 can be rotated pivotably relative to each other about the clip joint 76 from a first end position to a second end position via deformation of the joint.

Thegrappler arm 72 is formed as a snap-fit lock arranged to engage with the mounting rail 2 illustrated in Fig. 14A or 14B. The grappler arm engages with the clip mount- ing protrusion 80 and the second supporting protrusion and locks thereto via contact to the second abutment surface and the mounting surface 82.

The facade part 74 is arranged to support the backside 92 of a facade element.’Supporting’ comprises that the facade part 74 presses against a surface or that it engages with a groove in order to support the facade element in this way.

The clip mounting protrusion 80 on the mounting rail can contribute to increased stabilisation of the mounting clip in use, as three contact surfaces are obtained between the grappler arm 76 and the mounting rail 2.

Due to this flexibility, the mounting clip can function as clatter safeguard. Moreover, the flexibility may facilitate mounting of the facade sheathing and particularly replacement or retrofitting of individual facade elements. Fig. 15A-15B show two embodiments of mounted sheathing, wherein the system comprises mounting clips.

The illustrated facade elements comprise 5 projecting parts. For the individual em- bodiment, other forms of the facade elements can be used, including many of the embodiments illustrated in the preceding figures and descriptions.

The facade elements 1 are mounting on the mounting rails 2 by the first supporting protrusion 21 of the mounting rail engaging with the first groove 12 comprised in the first projecting part 9 on the facade element 1 , The mounting clips 70 are mounted on the mounting rails 2 by engaging with and locking to the mounting rail's second supporting protrusion 22 and the clip mounting protrusion 80.

Fig. 15A shows the system mounted in a first configuration, wherein the facade ele- ments' front extends substantially in the same plane when mounted on a plane building facade B or a plane surface of a building, such as a vertical outer wall or an inclining roof surface. In this configuration, a mounting clip is used, which has a facade part directed upwards, which engages with the second groove 13 comprised in the second projecting part 8 on the backside of the facade element.

Fig. 15B shows the system mounted in a second configuration, wherein the facade elements are imbricated when mounted on a plane building facade B or a plane surface of a building, such as a vertical outer wall or an inclining roof surface. In this configuration, a mounting clip is used with a facade part directed downwards, sup- porting the facade element 1 on the backside. The mounting clip in its entirety, meaning both the grappler arm and the facade part, as such engages with a groove in the facade element 1 , which arises due to the second projecting part 8 on the backside of the facade elements 1 . Fig. 16A-16D show two further embodiments of the mounting clip 70 and two embodiments of mounted sheathing with these mounting clips 70.

The mounting clips 70 illustrated in Figs 16A-16B both comprise a grappler arm 72 and a facade part 74, which is connected via a clip joint 76. The grappler arm 72 and the facade part 74 can be rotated pivotably relative to each other about the clip joint 76 from a first end position to a second end position via deformation of the joint. The grappler arm 72 is arranged to engage with the mounting rail 2, particularly the second supporting protrusion 22 and possibly with the clip mounting protrusion 80 depending on the embodiment of the mounting rail.

The facade part 74 is arranged to engage with two grooves in the facade element 1 . The two grooves are comprised each in their projecting part on the backside of the facade element.

Due to this flexibility, the mounting clip can function as clatter safeguard. Moreover, the flexibility may facilitate mounting of the facade sheathing and particularly replacement or retrofitting of individual facade elements. Figs 16C and 16D show two embodiments of mounted sheathing with the clip 70 illustrated in Fig. 16A and Fig. 16B, respectively, wherein the system is mounted in a first configuration, wherein the facade elements' front extends substantially in the same plane when mounted on a plane building facade B or a plane surface of a building, such as a vertical outer wall or an inclining roof surface.

The facade elements 1 are mounted on the mounting rails 2 by:

- the first supporting protrusion 21 of the mounting rail engaging with the first groove 12 comprised in the first projecting part 9 on the facade element 1 ,

- the mounting clips 70 being mounted on the mounting rails 2 by engaging with the mounting rail's second supporting protrusion 22 and possibly the clip mounting protrusion 80, and

- the facade part 74 engaging with two grooves in the facade element 1 , wherein the two grooves are comprised each in their projecting part on the backside of the facade element 1 .

Claims

1. A system (10) for sheathing a building facade (B), which system (10) comprises a plurality of mounting rails (2,2’) as well as a plurality of facade elements (1 ,1’), wherein

- each mounting rail (2,2’) comprises, viewed in cross section of the mounting rail's longitudinal direction, an abutment part (20), which is suitable for abutting against the building facade (B), as well as a first supporting protrusion (21) and a second supporting protrusion (22), wherein each supporting protrusion (21 ,22) further comprises an abutment surface (23,24), and wherein the abutment surface (23) is shaped at a first distance (d1) from the abutment part (20), while the second abutment surface (24) is shaped at a second distance (d2), and wherein the second distance (d2) is smaller than the first distance (d1);

- each facade element (1 ,1’) comprises a first groove (12) and a second groove (13), arranged for retaining one or more facade elements (1 ,1’) relative to the mounting rail (2,2’), a front (90) configured to be facing away from the mounting rail (1 ,1’) and a backside (92) configured to be facing towards the mounting rail (1 ,1’), wherein the backside comprises one or more projecting parts (11), wherein a first projecting part (9) comprises the first groove (12), and

which system (10) is suitable for being mounted in a first configuration, wherein the facade elements are mounted in parallel with the building facade (b), so that the front (90) of the facade elements extends substantially in the same plane when mounted on a plane building surface (B) or in a second configuration, wherein the facade elements are mounted so that they form an angle relative to a plane surface on the building facade (B), and wherein the facade elements (1 ,1’) partially overlap each other. 2. A system for sheathing a building surface (B) according to claim 1 , wherein the abutment surface (23) on the first supporting protrusion (21) provides and forms a first abutment plane (p1) for each facade element (1 ,1’), and wherein the abutment surface (24) on the second supporting protrusion (22) provides and forms a second abutment plane (p2) for the facade element (1 ,1’), wherein the first abutment plane and the second abutment plane are parallel relative to each other.

3. A system for sheathing a building surface (B) according to claim 1 , wherein the abutment surface (23) on the first supporting protrusion (21) provides and forms a first abutment plane for each facade element (1 ,1’), and wherein the abutment surface (24) on the second supporting protrusion (22) provides and forms a second abutment plane for the facade element (1 ,1’), wherein the second abutment plane (p2) is angled relative to the first abutment plane (p1). 4. A system for sheathing a building facade (B) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the supporting protrusions (21 ,22) extend in a direction opposite each other.

5. A system for sheathing a building facade (B) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first supporting protrusion (21) comprises a further third supporting protrusion (26), which extends in a direction opposite the first supporting protrusion (21).

6. A system for sheathing a building facade (B) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the system further comprises a sleeve (30,32,34) or gasket, which is formed so that it can be placed in between the first groove (12) and the second supporting protrusion (21) and/or between the second groove (13) and the second supporting protrusion (22). 7. A system for sheathing a building facade (B) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein

- the system comprises a plurality of mounting clips (70), which comprise a grappler arm (72) and a facade part (74) connected via a clip joint (76), whereby the grappler arm (72) and the facade part (74) can be rotated pivotably relative to each other about the clip joint (76) from a first end position to a second end position via deformation of the joint;

- the second supporting protrusion (22) on the mounting rail (2,2’) comprises a clip mounting protrusion (80) with a mounting surface (82), wherein the clip mounting protrusion (80) is arranged in an angle on the second supporting protrusion (22) pointing in a direction in towards the mounting rail (2,2’);

wherein the grappler arm (72) is formed as a snap-fit lock arranged to receive the clip mounting protrusion (80) and the second supporting protrusion (22) and lock thereto via contact to the abutment surface (24) and the mounting surface (82), and - wherein the facade part (74) is arranged to support the backside (92) of the facade elements (1 ,1’).

8. A system for sheathing a building facade (B) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the facade elements (1 ,1’) comprise two or more projecting parts (1 1), wherein the first projecting part (9) comprises the first groove (12) and the second projecting part (8) comprises the second groove (13).

9. A system for sheathing a building facade (B) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the facade element (1) is made of tile, eternite, glass, wood, polymer, composite, fibre composite or concrete.

10. A system for sheathing a building facade (B) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the facade element (1) is constituted by a panel, such as a solar panel, which can be suspended in the mounting rail 2,2’.

1 1 . A mounting rail (2,2’) for use in a system for sheathing a building facade according to any one of claims 1 -10, wherein the mounting rail (2,2’) comprises, viewed in cross section of the mounting rail's longitudinal direction, an abutment part (20), which is suitable for abutting against the building facade (B), as well as a first supporting pro- trusion (21 ) and a second supporting protrusion (22), wherein each supporting protrusion (21 ,22) further comprises an abutment surface (23,24);

12. A mounting rail (2,2’) according to claim 1 1 , further comprising a clip mounting protrusion (80) arranged on the second supporting protrusion (22), wherein the clip mounting protrusion (80) comprises a clip abutment surface (82).

13. A facade element for use in a system for sheathing a building facade according to any one of claims 1 -10, wherein the facade element comprises a first groove (12) and a second groove (13), arranged for retaining the facade element (1 ,1’) relative to a mounting rail (2,2’), a front (90) configured to be facing away from the mounting rail (1 ,1’) and a backside (92) configured to be facing towards the mounting rail (1 ,1’), wherein the backside comprises one or more projecting parts (1 1 ), wherein a first projecting part (9) comprises a first groove (12). 14. A method for mounting a system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 1-10, wherein the method at least comprises the following method steps;

- mounting of one first mounting rail (2,2’), wherein the mounting rail (2,2’) is attached to a building facade (B) by using screws, nails or the like, allowing the mounting rail (2,2’) to be attached and retained to the building facade (B);

- whereupon a first row of facade elements (1 ,1’) is mounted on the attached mounting rail (2,2’) by positioning the individual facade element on the mounting rail (2,2’), so that one of the first or the second supporting protrusion (21 ,22) engages with the first groove (12) shaped on the facade element (1).

15. A method according to claim 14, wherein the method further comprises the following method step:

- mounting of a mounting clip (70) on the mounting rail's second supporting protrusion (22).

16. A method according to any one of claims 14 or 15, wherein the method further comprises the following method steps:

- attaching a further mounting rail (2,2’) to the building facade (B) by using a number of screws, nails or the like, mounted so that the further mounting rail's second sup- porting protrusion (22) or the mounting clip's facade part (74) engages with the second groove (13) on one or more facade elements (1 , 1’) on the first row of mounted facade elements.

17. A method according to claim 15, wherein the method further comprises:

- positioning of the individual facade element, so that the mounting clip's facade part

(74) engages with or supports the facade element in the second groove shaped (13) on the backside of the facade element (1) or of another projecting part (8).

18. A method for mounting a system according to any one of claims 16 or 17, wherein the method comprises repetition of the method steps until the building facade (B) is sheathed with the desired number of facade elements (1 ,1’).

19. A method for retrofitting or replacement of facade elements from a building facade (B), wherein the individual facade element (1 ,1’) is the type described in any one of claims 1 -10 or 13, wherein the method at least comprises one or more of the following method steps:

i. dismounting of one or more facade elements (1 ,1’);

ii. fixing a mounting fixture (40) on the mounting rail (2,2’), wherein the mounting fix- ture (40) is attached to the mounting rail (2,2’) by use of screws, nails or the like, and wherein the mounting fixture (40) is arranged to interact with one of the supporting protrusions (22,21), so that it is possible to mount the facade element (1 ,1’) relative to the existing building facade (B) in connection with the facade element being guided over the interacting supporting protrusion on the mounting rail (2,2’).