EP3959408A1

EP3959408A1 - External screening arrangement with side covers

Info

Publication number: EP3959408A1
Application number: EP20816900.3A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Kim Daugaard Kragh
Original assignee: VKR Holding AS
Current assignee: VKR Holding AS
Priority date: 2019-11-25
Filing date: 2020-11-24
Publication date: 2022-03-02
Anticipated expiration: 2040-11-24
Also published as: PL3959408T3; ES2953157T3; EP3959408C0; EP3959408B1; HUE062472T2; WO2021104593A1

Abstract

In the external screening arrangement (1) for a roof window, a set of side covers (30) is configured to be connected to the frame structure of the roof window. The screening arrangement comprises a positioning device (40) to provide at least temporary, releasable engagement with engagement means (33) of the respective side cover (30). The positioning device (40) is configured to be fastened to the roof window (2) in the mounted condition of the screening arrangement (1), and comprises a clip (40) providing snap engagement with the engagement means (33) of the side cover (30).

Description

Title of Invention

External screening arrangement with side covers.

Technical Field The present invention relates to an external screening arrangement according to the preamble of claim 1.

Background Art

Screening arrangements positioned in front of windows to cover the window opening from direct sunlight in the screening position are common. Such screening arrangements are typically either positioned on the interior or the exterior side of the window opening to be screened. Internal screening arrangements include roller blinds, Venetian blinds, pleated blinds etc. and are typically relatively easy to install, as the installation site is normally immediately accessible by the person carrying out the installation and the entire operation may be carried from the inside of the building in which the window is installed. External screening arrangements, on the other hand, are from the outset made from materials being sturdier and heavier than internal screening arrangements, and the installation site involves building parts located on the exterior side of the building. Screening arrangements also must fulfil different requirements depending on whether they are installed in a fagade window, i.e. in a substantially vertical position, or in an inclined or even horizontal surface such as a roof. Not only are screening arrangements for roof windows configured to take into account the effects of gravity due to the resulting force being out of the general plane of the roof window, but the installation position itself, on a roof, renders mounting more complicated.

This applies in particular to external screening arrangements for roof windows, and even more so in the case where the external screening arrangement requires the presence of not only side rails, but also a set of side covers to provide protection of the remaining components of the screening arrangement and of the opening of the roof window. Such side covers are typically mounted when at least the frame structure of the roof window is already installed in the roof surface. The installation of such side covers is complicated, as the side covers have a length more or less corresponding to that of the roof window, and furthermore needs to be fastened in a precise position. The accuracy in the positioning is necessary to ensure the protection aimed at is achieved, and more importantly, to prevent damage of parts of the roof window not intended for, or being unsuitable for, receiving fastening means such as screws. Hence, such external screening arrangements are most often mounted on the roof window by professional installers. While this warrants that appropriate tools and equipment are used, there is still a need for improvement in relation to the installation conditions, since even time is of the essence during the mounting operation of an external screening arrangement.

Summary of Invention

With this background, it is therefore an object of the invention to provide a screening arrangement, which makes it possible to facilitate an improved installation.

In a first aspect, this and further objects are achieved by an external screening arrangement of the kind mentioned in the introduction, which is furthermore characterised in that the screening arrangement furthermore comprises a positioning device to provide at least temporary, releasable engagement with engagement means of the respective side cover, in that said positioning device comprises a clip providing snap engagement with the engagement means of the side cover, and in that said positioning device is configured to be fastened to the roof window in the mounted condition of the screening arrangement.

In this way, the side covers may be safely connected to the roof window during installation. In an initial step, the positioning device is fastened to the roof window, independently of the side cover, which may remain in its package, either on the roof or inside the building. Subsequently, the side cover is engaged with the positioning device and hence the roof window. The releasable engagement ensures that installation may be carried out single- handedly by the installer, without requiring additional and/or complicated tools to ensure the at least temporary engagement. Once the engagement has been established, the installer is now free to let go of the side cover to retrieve tools necessary for other parts of the mounting process. The releasable engagement between the positioning device and the side cover furthermore ensures that the side cover is connected to the frame in the correct position such that additional fastening means are introduced into the frame structure of the roof window at appropriate and designated positions. The engagement is carried out with ease, from arbitrary directions. The provision of a clip to provide the snap engagement is a well-known and reliable mechanical means of obtaining such a temporary engagement and may in some cases even function as a permanent engagement means.

The external screening arrangement may be an external flat roof window screening arrangement and/or an external inclined roof window screening arrangement. The external screening arrangement may preferably be configured for being mounted on a roof window in an inclined roof and/or a flat roof. In an embodiment the external screening arrangement is in a mounted condition mounted on a roof window, wherein said roof window is mounted in an inclined roof or a flat roof.

In further developments of this presently preferred embodiment, the snap engagement provides positive, form-locking engagement between the side cover and the clip or non-positive, force-locking engagement. The selection of appropriate snap engagement means is thus flexible and may for instance be chosen in accordance with the dimensions and materials of the screening arrangement and of the roof window, installation conditions etc.

A form-locking engagement ensures that the side cover is secured and does not move excessively relative to the positioning device, thereby improving the positioning device to be used in orienting and connecting the side cover at appropriate and designated positions.

Preferably, the clip provides positive, form-locking engagement and comprises a hook portion to engage with the engagement means of the side cover. In this way, the risk of unintentional release of the engagement of the side cover and the clip is mitigated, since release will require an active release of the form-locking engagement, typically involving movement in a direction perpendicular to the engagement direction. Furthermore, the side cover needs only to be provided with a recess or groove to engage with the hook portion, thereby keeping the side cover space-efficient. A hook portion protruding from one face of the positioning member ensures that the engagement is carried out with ease, while still ensuring a safe retention of the side cover on the positioning device and hence the frame structure of the roof window.

Other presently preferred embodiments and further advantages will be apparent from the subsequent detailed description and drawings.

A feature described in relation to one of the aspect may also be incorporated in the other aspect, and the advantage of the feature is applicable to all aspects in which it is incorporated.

Brief Description of Drawings

For exemplifying purposes, the invention will be described in closer detail in the following with reference to embodiments thereof illustrated in the attached drawings, wherein:

Fig. 1a is a perspective view of a screening arrangement in an embodiment of the invention, with the screening body in an unwound, screening position;

Fig. 1b is a view corresponding to Fig. 1a, with the screening body in a wound-up, non-screening position;

Fig. 2a is a perspective view of a roof window with a screening arrangement in another embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 2b is a perspective view of a roof window with a prior art screening arrangement;

Figs 3a and 3b are simplistic perspective views of the operational principles of a cord system, with a screening body in an unwound screening position;

Fig. 4 shows a partial perspective view, on a larger scale, of the upper left-hand corner of a screening arrangement in an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 5 shows a partial perspective view, on a larger scale, of the side cover and the positioning device in the embodiment of Fig. 4;

Fig. 6 shows a perspective view, from another angle, of the side cover in the embodiment of Fig. 4;

Figs 7a to 7c show schematic partial perspective views of the mounting of a positioning device in an embodiment of the screening arrangement on a roof window;

Figs 8a and 8b show schematic partial perspective views of the mounting of a side cover being mounted on a positioning device fastened to a roof window, in an embodiment of the screening arrangement;

Fig. 9 shows a schematic perspective view of a roof window in a further step of fastening a side cover in an embodiment of the screening arrangement on a roof window;

Figs 10a to 10d show views from various angles of a positioning device in an embodiment of the screening arrangement according to the invention;

Fig. 11 shows a partial perspective sectional view of the upper left- hand portion of a screening arrangement in an embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 12 shows an exploded partial perspective view of the lower left- hand corner of a screening arrangement in an embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 13 shows an end view of a side rail in an embodiment of the screening arrangement according to the invention;

Figs 14 and 15 show end views of a side rail and a side cover in further embodiments; and

Figs 16a to 16e show views from various angles of a positioning device in a further embodiment of the screening arrangement according to the invention.

Description of Embodiments

In the following detailed description, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described. Flowever, it is to be understood that features of the different embodiments are exchangeable between the embodiments and may be combined in different ways, unless anything else is specifically indicated. It may also be noted that, for the sake of clarity, the dimensions of certain components illustrated in the drawings may differ from the corresponding dimensions in real-life implementations.

It is noted that terms such as “up”, “down”, “left-hand”, “right-hand”, “exterior”, “interior”, “outer”, “inner” are relative and refers to the viewpoint in question.

Figs 1a and 1 b

Referring initially to Fig. 1a and Fig. 1 b, where perspective views of a screening arrangement 1 in an embodiment of the invention are shown, it is seen how the screening arrangement 1 comprises a screening body 11 , a top casing 23 and a bottom profile 15.

The screening arrangement 1 is configured to be mounted on a roof window 2 (see Fig. 2a) to assume a mounted condition, in which the screening body 11 is movable in a general longitudinal direction between a non-screening position and a number of non-screening positions in which the screening body 11 at least partially covers an opening of the roof window 2.

The screening arrangement 1 further comprises a roller shaft 14 (Figs 3a and 3b) accommodated in the top casing 23 and connected to drive means, the drive means being configured to rotate the roller shaft 14 in a winding direction W1 and an unwinding direction W2 (see Figs 3a and 3b).

The screening body 11 has two side edges and a predefined length between a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end portion is connected to the roller shaft 14 accommodated in the top casing 23 such that the screening body 11 may be wound on the roller shaft 14 in the non-screening position. The second end portion is connected to a bottom profile 15.

Furthermore, the screening arrangement comprises two side rails 21 , 22, a first side rail 21 and a second side rail 22 to guide at least opposing ends of the bottom profile 15. In some embodiments, also the side edges of the screening body 11 may be guided in the side rails 21 , 22. The term “ends” of the bottom profile 15 is to be construed to encompass any structure of the bottom profile 15 suitable to interact with the side rails 21 , 22, including separate elements and one-piece configurations.

In Fig. 1a, the screening body 11 is shown in an unwound screening position, and in Fig. 1 b the screening body is shown in a non-screening position, in which the screening body 11 is wound and stored on the roller shaft 14 in the top casing 23. In the non-screening position, the bottom profile 15 may either be completely accommodated within the top casing 23, or protrude slightly therefrom.

Fig. 2a

The screening arrangement 1 is configured to be mounted on the exterior side of the roof window 2, which in turn is typically mounted in an inclined roof surface (not shown). The roof window 2 has a frame structure 3 and a sash structure 4. The frame structure 3 is configured to extend in parallel to the roof surface, while the sash structure 4 is configured to be opened to a variety of positions, for instance as shown in Fig. 2a. The frame structure 3 and the sash structure 4 each has a top member 3a, 4a and a bottom member 3d, 4d and two mutually parallel side members 3b, 3c, 4b, 4c. The sash structure 4 is pivotally connected to the frame structure 3 via hinges 5, in the shown embodiment here at a substantially central hinge axis, however other positions of the hinge axis are conceivable as well. Also visible in Fig. 2a is a pane 7 encased in the sash structure 4.

In order to allow the screening arrangement 1 to follow the movement of the sash structure 4 during opening of the roof window 2, the side rails 21 , 22 are connected to the sash structure 4 in a slidable and rotatable connection at or near the bottom of the sash structure 4. The top casing 23 may either be rotatably or fixedly connected to the roof window 1 , at or near the top of the frame structure 3. The connection between the top casing 23 and the side rails 21 , 22 is either fixed, i.e. the side rails 21 , 22 are rigidly connected to the top casing, or rotatable, i.e. there is a hinge connection (not shown) between the top casing 23 and the side rails 21 , 22. Examples of a roof window with a prior art screening arrangement are shown in the embodiments of applications EP 3 015637 A1 and EP 2 390455 A1 . In Fig. 2a, a fitting 6 is generally designated to indicate the slidable and rotatable connection between the bottom corners of the sash structure 4, defined by the bottom sash member 4d and the side sash members 4c, 4b, to the first side rail 21 and the second side rail 22, respectively. The fittings 6 allow for the sash structure 3 to be guided along the side rails 21 , 22 when the sash structure 4 is pivoted about its hinge axis when opening the roof window 2.

In the embodiment of Fig. 2a, the top casing 23 comprises a slightly curved cover portion 232 and an end portion 233 at each of the longitudinal ends of the top casing 23. Furthermore, a solar panel 231 is placed in the top casing 23 which could be used to power the screening arrangement 1 , possibly connected to a battery inside the top casing 23; however, power may also be provided from a main housing supply. Wiring, motor control and power means for the motor are not shown. The top casing 23 is rotatably connected to the frame structure 3 of the roof window 2 with a top casing hinge 234. The side rails 21 , 22 are, at respective first fixed ends, rigidly, i.e. fixedly connected to the top casing 23 such that the side rails 21 , 22 may pivot out of the plane defined by the roof surface and the frame structure 3 when opening the sash structure 4.

Fig. 2b

In Fig. 2b, a prior art screening arrangement is shown. Elements having the same or analogous function as in the embodiments of the invention are denoted by the same reference numerals for convenience. In this prior art screening arrangement 1 , the top casing 23 is fixedly connected to the top frame member 3a, and the side rails 21 , 22 are rotatably connected to the top casing 23. The movement of the side rails 21 , 22 is limited by the presence of a stay 8 connected to a respective side cover 30’ which in turn is connected to the side member 3c of the frame structure 3 of the roof window 2. A corresponding side cover is connected to the opposite side member 3b. The side covers 30’ provide general protection of the other components of the screening arrangement 1 and contributes to the shielding of the opening of the roof window 2. Figs 3a and 3b

Referring now to Figs 3a and 3b, which show the operating principle and possible configurations of a cord system of embodiments of the screening arrangement 1 of the invention, two guidance cords 12 are provided to ensure parallel guidance of the bottom profile 15 during operation of the screening arrangement 1.

Each guidance cord 12 is, at one end, connected to a respective winding device including a winding reel 16, and, at another end, connected to a tensioning device generally designated 13 in the bottom profile 15. The configuration of such winding reels are well-known as such, one example being found in the embodiment of Applicant’s WO 2006/074653 A1. It is noted that the term “in the bottom profile” should be interpreted in its broadest sense, thus including positions at or near a wall of the bottom profile, such as for instance behind a front wall of an open profile.

The guidance cords 12 are wound on the winding device oppositely relative to how the screening body 11 is wound on the roller shaft 14, i.e. when the roller shaft 14 rotates in the winding direction W1 , the screening body 11 is wound, while the guidance cords 12 are unwound, and vice versa when the roller shaft 14 rotates in the unwinding direction W2. The winding device including the winding reel 16 and the roller shaft 14 are both accommodated in the top casing 23.

In principle, the winding reels 16 should unwind/wind a length of guidance cord 12 substantially equal to the length of screening body 11 wound/unwound by the roller shaft 14 when the bottom profile 15 is moved in the general longitudinal direction of the screening arrangement 1 as defined by the screening body 11 and the side rails 21, 22. Flowever, due to variations in the effective diameter of the roller shaft 14 caused by successive windings of the screening body 11 in dependence on the amount of screening body 11 wound on the roller shaft 14, the guidance cords 12 are slackened, thereby impairing the parallel guiding function. To compensate for slack in the guidance cords 12, the tensioning device 13 provides a tension on the guidance cords 12 such that during operation, variations in the required length of the guidance cords 12 is accommodated for.

In the configuration shown in Fig. 3a, the winding reel 16 is arranged at one end of the roller shaft 14. The winding reel 16 can however, also be arranged inside the roller shaft 14 as shown in Fig. 3b, such that the roller shaft 14 and thus also the screening body 11 may be made wider, or two winding reels, one at the respective end of the roller shaft 14.

Also visible in the general overviews of Figs 3a and 3b are return elements 10 for guiding the respective guidance cord 12 from the winding reel 16 around the associated return element 10 and up to and into the bottom profile 15, and further to the tensioning device 13. Since the return element 10 is located at or near the free end of the respective side rail 21 , 22, this means that the returning or upwards directed part of the guidance cord 12 runs alongside the downwards directed part of the guidance cord 12 from the winding reel 16 to the return element 10. The upwards directed part of the guidance cord 12 may run in the same track of the respective side rail 21 , 22 as the downwards directed part of the guidance cord 12. In the embodiment shown in one and the same track 221 (cf. Figures of specific embodiments) of the side rail 22.

In the embodiments shown, the screening arrangement comprises an external screening arrangement with a substantially flat screening body also known as a panzer as seen in the unwound screening position, but the concept is applicable also to other forms of screenings such as awning blinds, external roller blinds, roller shutters with various types of lamellae etc.

Figs 4 to 6 and 10a to 10d

Embodiments of an inventive side cover 30 will now be described in detail below, along with its connection to the roof window 2 by means of a positioning device 40. In the embodiments shown and described below, a set of two side covers is configured to be connected to roof window 2, at the side members 3b, 3c of the frame structure 3 of the roof window 2, by means of a respective positioning device 40 connected to opposing sides of the frame structure 3 of the roof window 2. It is noted that the concept of “connection to the frame structure 3” includes also indirect connection, for instance via coverings or adapter pieces, and the concept of “sides” include side frame members 3b, 3c and adjacent portions of the top and bottom frame members 3a, 3d.

Referring initially to Figs 4 to 6 and 10a to 10d, it is shown how the positioning device 40 is intended to provide at least temporary, releasable engagement with engagement means 33 of the respective side cover 30. The positioning device 40 is configured to be fastened to the roof window 2 in the mounted condition of the screening arrangement 1 .

In a first embodiment, the positioning device comprises a clip 40 providing snap engagement with the engagement means 33 of the side cover 30. The snap engagement provides positive, form-locking engagement between the side cover 30 and the clip 40, such that an active releasing action is required to remove the side cover 30 from the clip 40, involving a directional change of the components interacting in the form-locking engagement. In an alternative, not-shown embodiment, a non-positive, force-locking engagement is possible as well, in which case release is possible by moving the side cover in the opposite of the mounting direction.

In order to provide the positive, form-locking engagement, the clip 40 comprises a hook portion 412 configured to engage with the engagement means 33 of the side cover 30. The engagement means of the side cover 30 is here formed as a slot 33 formed in the side cover 30.

The clip 40 comprises an upstanding leg 41 with a first side 411 configured to face the side cover 30 and a second side 413 configured to face outwards in the mounted condition, and a base leg 42 with fastening means 421 for fastening of the clip 40 to the roof window 2. The fastening means 421 includes an aperture 421 for receiving a separate fastening means such as a screw.

Furthermore, the clip 40 comprises at least one side wall, preferably two side walls 43, 44, at the side of the base leg 42, and the side wall/s 43, 44 is/are located such that an interspace 45 is formed between the first side 411 of the upstanding leg 41 and the side wall/s 43, 44. The interspace 45 being configured for receiving the side cover 30. To facilitate the insertion of the side cover 30 into the clip 40, each side wall 43, 44 is provided with a guide portion 431 , 441 in the embodiment shown.

The side cover 30 has a top end 301 and a bottom end 302, an upstanding flange 31 extending substantially from the top end 301 to the bottom end 302. The engagement means 33 of the side cover is provided in the upstanding flange 31 , at or near the top end 301 . The slot 33 constituting the engagement means of the side cover 30 in the embodiment shown is provided in the upstanding flange 31 . The side cover intended for connection with the opposing side of the frame structure 3 may be formed in a similar, mirror- inverted manner.

The side cover 30 here also comprises a base flange 32 with a number of apertures, namely first, second and third apertures 321 , 322, 323 in the base flange 32. The first, second and third apertures 321 , 322, 323 being for receiving additional fastening means, for fastening the side cover 30 to the frame structure 3.

Also visible in Figs 4 to 6 is an inclined edge 311 of the upstanding flange 31 , ending in a connection area for connection with the top casing 23. In the designated connection area, reception means 34 for the top casing hinge 234 (Fig. 2a) is shown, as well as an aperture 35 for coupling means including a locking arm 37 (shown in Fig. 8a) for the top casing hinge 234, as well as an aperture 36 for other components of the top casing 23.

The side cover 30 in the first embodiment shown has a substantially L-shaped cross-section along the longitudinal direction, but it is also conceivable to provide a plane side cover, or of another configuration. The engagement means of the side cover 30 are in the shown embodiment formed integrated in the side cover 30; however, it is also conceivable to include separate engagement means interacting with both the side cover 30 and the positioning device 40. Figs 7 a to 7c, 8a to 8b and 9

Mounting of the side covers 30 to the roof window 2 will now be described in some detail with particular reference to Figs 7a to 7c, 8a to 8b and 9: In a first step, the roof window 2 is prepared for receiving the positioning device 40 of the screening arrangement 1 according to the invention. Flere, this involves removing a screw 3a2 from a top box 3a1 covering the top frame member 3a and the frame side members 3b, 3c as shown in Fig. 7a. Advantageously, the screw aperture is sealed by a suitable material (Fig. 7b) before introducing the positioning device 40 and re introducing the screw 3a2 (Fig. 7c). The suitable material may be a putty or a similar material, thereby it may help with waterproofing the screw aperture. The procedure is repeated at the opposite side of the frame structure 3. Following this, the positioning device 40 is connected to the roof window 2 and ready to receive the side cover 30 (Fig. 7c).

In a second step, the side covers are successively positioned at the respective sides of the frame structure 3 of the roof window 2 as shown in Fig. 8a. Once the engagement means 33 of the side cover 30 is aligned with the positioning device 40, the engagement means 33 is moved into engagement with the positioning device 40 to attain the position of Fig. 8b. Alternatively, the engagement means 33 of the side cover 30 is not aligned with the positioning device 40 prior to engagement, instead the side cover 30 is moved into engagement with the positioning device 40, and subsequently the engagement means 33 are moved into engagement with the positioning device 40, thereby attaining the position of Fig. 8b. In the embodiment of Figs 4 to 6 and 10a to 10d, where the positioning device comprises a clip 40 providing form-locking engagement, the hook portion 412 of the clip 40 snaps into the slot 33 and thereby provides the at least temporary, releasable engagement aimed at. The person carrying out the installation is now free to move to further operations, since the side cover 30 remains in its position as it is held by the positioning device 40.

In a subsequent step, the side cover 30 is connected to the frame structure 3 of the roof window 2 by introducing additional fastening means, such as screws, into the first, second and third apertures 321 , 322, 323 as indicated in Fig. 9.

Figs 11 to 15

Turning now to Figs 11 to 15, further embodiments will be described in detail. These embodiments focus on improving the general protection conferred by the side covers 30 to the remaining components of the screening arrangement 1 and the roof window 2 even further, in particular regarding the snugness of the cooperation between the side rails 21 , 22, the screening body 11 , bottom profile 15, and the side covers 30. The snugness include proofing against weather and sound, and in particular light from the surroundings to the room of the building via the opening to be screened. Each side rail 21 , 22 may thus be provided with sealing means between the side rail 21 , 22 and the screening body 11 and/or the bottom profile 15. Additionally or alternatively, each side rail 21 , 22 may be provided with sealing means between the side rail 21 , 22 and the side cover 30.

In the specific embodiment shown in Figs 11 to 13, each side rail 21 , 22 is provided with a top flange 222, a first side flange 223 and a bottom flange 224 to define a track 221 with a track opening 2211 configured to receive at least the bottom profile 15, by its opposing ends 150. As mentioned in the above, “ends” of the bottom profile 15 is to be construed to encompass any structure of the bottom profile 15 suitable to interact with the side rails 21 , 22. Flere, the ends are provided as separate elements 150, but one-piece configurations are conceivable as well. In the embodiment shown, also a side edge of the screening body 11 is received and guided in the respective side rail.

In the embodiment shown, each side rail 21 , 22 is furthermore provided with a fitting track 225 for the fitting 6 connecting the side rail 21 , 22 to the sash structure 4. The fitting track 225 is here provided in conjunction with the bottom flange 224, but other configurations are conceivable.

More specifically, each side rail 21 , 22 is provided with a descending second side flange portion 226 and an ascending second side flange portion 227 at a distance from the first side flange 223, said descending second side flange portion 226 and ascending second side flange portion 227 being provided at either side of the track opening 2211 .

To delimit the track opening 2211 and provide the possibility of improving the sealing properties of the side rail relative to the screening body 11 and the bottom profile 15 even further, an upper flange section 2260 is provided adjacent the descending second side flange portion 226 and a lower flange section 2270 is provided adjacent the ascending second side flange portion 227.

At strategic positions in the side rail, sealing means may be positioned and here comprise a plurality of tracks 2261 , 2262, 2271 , 2281 configured to receive one or more gaskets.

Turning now to Figs 14 and 15, further embodiments are shown, in which the cooperation with the side rail 22 and the side cover 30 is made even more snug. The sealing means here comprise a groove 229 configured to receive the side cover 30. Corresponding to the embodiment of Fig. 13, tracks for receiving gaskets may be provided at strategic positions within the side rail, including within the groove 229. In further, non-shown embodiments, the side cover 30 may be provided with sealing means as well, either in addition to the side rails 21 , 22, or alternatively.

Figs 16a to 16e

A second embodiment of the positioning device in the form of a clip 40 is shown in Figs 16a to 16e. In substance, this embodiment corresponds to the first embodiment shown in detail in Figs 10a to 10d. The upstanding leg 41 with the hook portion 412 and the side walls 43, 44 are here provided with recesses to increase the resilient properties further.

Specific embodiments of the invention have now been described. Flowever, several alternatives are possible, as would be apparent for someone skilled in the art. Such and other obvious modifications must be considered to be within the scope of the present invention, as it is defined by the appended claims.

List of reference numerals

I screening arrangement

2 roof window

3 frame structure 3a top frame member 3a 1 top box 3a2 screw in top box 3b side frame member 3c side frame member 3d bottom frame member

4 sash structure

4a top sash member 4b side sash member 4c side sash member 4d bottom sash member

5 hinge

6 fitting

7 pane

8 stay

10 return element

I I screening body

110 screening cloth

111 lamella

12 guidance cord

13 tensioning device

14 roller shaft

15 bottom profile

21 first side rail

22 second side rail

221 track

2211 track opening

222 top flange

223 first side flange

2231 end portion of side flange

224 bottom flange

225 fitting track (for fitting 6)

226 descending second side flange portion

2260 upper flange section

2261 first track

2262 second track

227 ascending second side flange portion

2270 lower flange section

2271 first track 228 stepped flange portion 2281 track

229 groove for side cover 3 top casing

231 solar panel

232 cover portion

233 end portion

234 top casing hinge

24 corner cap

240 cap element 245 stationary element

25 corner cap

30’ prior art side cover (Fig. 2b)

30 side cover

301 top end

302 bottom end

31 upstanding flange 311 inclined edge

32 base flange

321 first aperture

322 second aperture

323 third aperture

33 engagement means / slot

34 reception means for top casing hinge

35 aperture for coupling means of top casing hinge

36 aperture

37 locking arm for top casing hinge

40 positioning device / clip

41 upstanding leg

411 first side

412 hook portion

413 second side

414 ribs

42 base leg

421 fastening means / aperture

43 side wall

431 guide portion

44 side wall

441 guide portion

45 interspace

W1 winding direction W2 unwinding direction

Claims

1. An external screening arrangement (1) configured to assume a mounted condition on a roof window (2), the roof window (2) having a window opening, a frame structure (3) and a sash structure (4) extending in parallel to the roof surface, each with top (3a, 4a) and bottom members (3d, 4d) and two mutually parallel side members (3b, 3c, 4b, 4c), where the screening arrangement (1) comprises: a screening body (11) having two side edges and a predefined length between a first end portion and a second end portion, said screening body (11 ) being movable, in the mounted condition of the screening arrangement, in a longitudinal direction between a non-screening position and a number of screening positions in which the screening body (11) at least partially covers the window opening, a top casing (23) configured to extend substantially in parallel with the top member of the frame in the mounted condition, a roller shaft (14) accommodated in the top casing (23) and connected to drive means, the drive means being configured to rotate the roller shaft (14) in a winding direction (W1) and an unwinding direction (W2), the first end portion of the screening body (11) being connected to the roller shaft (14) such that the screening body (11) is wound on the roller shaft in the non-screening position, a bottom profile (15) extending substantially in parallel with the top casing (23) between two ends (150) and connected to the second end portion of the screening body (11 ), two side rails (21 , 22) configured to extend substantially in parallel with a respective side member of the frame and sash structure in the mounted condition to guide at least the ends (150) of the bottom profile (15), and a set of side covers (30) configured to be connected to the frame structure (3) of the roof window (2), characterised in that the screening arrangement (1) furthermore comprises a positioning device (40) to provide at least temporary, releasable engagement with engagement means (33) of the respective side cover (30), in that said positioning device comprises a clip (40) providing snap engagement with the engagement means (33) of the side cover (30), and in that said positioning device (40) is configured to be fastened to the roof window (2) in the mounted condition of the screening arrangement (1 ).

2. An external screening arrangement (1 ) according to claim 1 , wherein the snap engagement provides positive, form-locking engagement between the side cover (30) and the clip (40) or non-positive, force-locking engagement.

3. An external screening arrangement (1 ) according to claim 2, wherein the clip (40) provides positive, form-locking engagement and comprises a hook portion (412) to engage with the engagement means (33) of the side cover (30).

4. An external screening arrangement (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the engagement means of the side cover (30) is formed as a slot (33) formed in the side cover (30).

5. An external screening arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the clip (40) comprises an upstanding leg (41 ) with a first side (411 ) configured to face the side cover (30) and a second side (413) configured to face outwards in the mounted condition, and a base leg (42) with fastening means (421 ) for fastening of the clip (40) to the roof window (2), said fastening means (421 ) preferably including an aperture (421 ) for receiving a separate fastening means such as a screw.

6. An external screening arrangement according to claim 5, wherein the clip (40) comprises at least one side wall, preferably two side walls (43, 44), at the side of the base leg (42), and wherein said side wall/s (43, 44) is/are located such that an interspace (45) is formed between the first side (411 ) of the upstanding leg (41) and the side wall/s (43, 44), each side wall (43, 44) being preferably provided with a guide portion (431 , 441 ).

7. An external screening arrangement according to any of the preceding claims, wherein each side cover (30) has a top end (301 ) and a bottom end (302), an upstanding flange (31) extending substantially from the top end (301 ) to the bottom end (302), and wherein the engagement means (33) of the side cover is provided in said upstanding flange (31 ), at or near the top end (301 ), the side cover (30) preferably comprising a base flange (32) with a number of apertures (321 , 322, 323) configured to receive additional fastening means.

8. An external screening arrangement according to claim 7 and claim 5, wherein the slot (33) constituting the engagement means of the side cover (30) is provided in the upstanding flange (31).

9. An external screening arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each side rail (21 , 22) is provided with sealing means between the side rail (21 , 22) and the screening body (11 ) and/or the bottom profile (15).

10. An external screening arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each side rail (21 , 22) is provided with sealing means between the side rail (21 , 22) and the side cover (30).

11 . An external screening arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each side rail (21 , 22) is provided with a top flange (222), a first side flange (223) and a bottom flange (224) to define a track (221 ) with a track opening (2211 ) configured to receive at least the bottom profile (15) and possibly a side edge of the screening body (11 ), each side rail (21 , 22) being furthermore preferably provided with a fitting track (225) for a fitting (6) connecting the side rail (21 , 22) to the sash structure (4), the fitting track (225) being more preferably provided in conjunction with the bottom flange (224).

12. An external screening arrangement according to claim 11 , wherein each side rail (21 , 22) is provided with a descending second side flange portion (226) and an ascending second side flange portion (227) at a distance from the first side flange (223), said descending second side flange portion (226) and ascending second side flange portion (227) being provided at either side of the track opening (2211 ).

13. An external screening arrangement according to claim 12, wherein an upper flange section (2260) is provided adjacent the descending second side flange portion (226) and a lower flange section (2270) is provided adjacent the ascending second side flange portion (227).

14. An external screening arrangement according to any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein the sealing means comprise a plurality of tracks (2261 , 2262, 2271 , 2281 ) configured to receive a gasket.

15. An external screening arrangement according to any one of claims 9 to 14, wherein the sealing means comprise a groove (229) configured to receive the side cover (30), the groove (229) being preferably provided with at least one gasket.

16. An external screening arrangement according any of the preceding claims, wherein the screening arrangement further comprises: a winding device comprising at least one winding reel (16) in connection with the roller shaft (14), a cord system including at least one guidance cord (12) having a first end in connection with the winding device and a second end in connection with the bottom profile (15), at least one return element (10) for the at least one guidance cord (12), positioned at or near a free end of at least one of the side rails (21 , 22), such that the respective guidance cord (12) is guided from the winding device, around the associated return element (10) and up to the bottom profile (15), and a tensioning device (13) accommodated in the bottom profile (15) and comprising at least one spring device (131) for tensioning the at least one guidance cord (12) with a spring bias.

17. An external screening arrangement according any of the preceding claims, wherein the top casing (23) is configured to be rotatably connected to or fixed to the roof window (2) and extend substantially in parallel with the top member of the frame (3a), and each side rail (21 , 22) being at a first end fixed to or rotatably connected to the top casing (23) and at a second end slidably and rotatably connected to the sash structure (4) by means of a fitting (6).