GB2362417A - Spigot and socket closure arrangement for windows and doors - Google Patents

Spigot and socket closure arrangement for windows and doors Download PDF

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Publication number
GB2362417A
GB2362417A GB0012065A GB0012065A GB2362417A GB 2362417 A GB2362417 A GB 2362417A GB 0012065 A GB0012065 A GB 0012065A GB 0012065 A GB0012065 A GB 0012065A GB 2362417 A GB2362417 A GB 2362417A
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GB
United Kingdom
Prior art keywords
spigot
socket
assembly according
leaf
window
Prior art date
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Granted
Application number
GB0012065A
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GB0012065D0 (en
GB2362417B (en
Inventor
Giovanni Maria Laporta
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Individual
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Individual
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Priority to GB0012065A priority Critical patent/GB2362417B/en
Publication of GB0012065D0 publication Critical patent/GB0012065D0/en
Publication of GB2362417A publication Critical patent/GB2362417A/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of GB2362417B publication Critical patent/GB2362417B/en
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Classifications

    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05DHINGES OR SUSPENSION DEVICES FOR DOORS, WINDOWS OR WINGS
    • E05D11/00Additional features or accessories of hinges
    • E05D11/0018Anti-tamper devices
    • E05D11/0027Anti-tamper devices arranged on or near the hinge and comprising parts interlocking as the wing closes, e.g. security studs
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05DHINGES OR SUSPENSION DEVICES FOR DOORS, WINDOWS OR WINGS
    • E05D15/00Suspension arrangements for wings
    • E05D15/40Suspension arrangements for wings supported on arms movable in vertical planes
    • E05D15/44Suspension arrangements for wings supported on arms movable in vertical planes with pivoted arms and vertically-sliding guides
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05YINDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES E05D AND E05F, RELATING TO CONSTRUCTION ELEMENTS, ELECTRIC CONTROL, POWER SUPPLY, POWER SIGNAL OR TRANSMISSION, USER INTERFACES, MOUNTING OR COUPLING, DETAILS, ACCESSORIES, AUXILIARY OPERATIONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, APPLICATION THEREOF
    • E05Y2900/00Application of doors, windows, wings or fittings thereof
    • E05Y2900/10Application of doors, windows, wings or fittings thereof for buildings or parts thereof
    • E05Y2900/13Type of wing
    • E05Y2900/132Doors
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05YINDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES E05D AND E05F, RELATING TO CONSTRUCTION ELEMENTS, ELECTRIC CONTROL, POWER SUPPLY, POWER SIGNAL OR TRANSMISSION, USER INTERFACES, MOUNTING OR COUPLING, DETAILS, ACCESSORIES, AUXILIARY OPERATIONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, APPLICATION THEREOF
    • E05Y2900/00Application of doors, windows, wings or fittings thereof
    • E05Y2900/10Application of doors, windows, wings or fittings thereof for buildings or parts thereof
    • E05Y2900/13Type of wing
    • E05Y2900/148Windows

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Wing Frames And Configurations (AREA)
  • Specific Sealing Or Ventilating Devices For Doors And Windows (AREA)

Abstract

A window assembly has a movable leaf (14) coupled to a fixed frame (12) to allow the moveable leaf (14) to be swung open and closed. A spigot (40) is arranged on the movable leaf (14) and a socket (42) on the fixed frame (12), which interengage when the window is closed. The spigot (40) and socket (42) have complimentary engagement formations, preferably in the form of a projection (47) on the spigot which engages with an edge of an aperture (61) in the wall of the socket (42). Such an arrangement locks the spigot (40) to the socket (42) should an attempt be made to force the leaf (14) away from the frame (12) transverse to the normal closing path.

Description

2362417 1 IMPROVEMENTS RELATING TO WINDOWS AND DOORS The present invention
relates to windows and doors, in particular to windows and doors which can be swung open and closed. The invention is particularly suitable for windows with frames made of u-PVC plastics (commonly used in double glazing systems), but it is not limited exclusively to this.
Usually, concealed sliding stay hinges, referred to herein as friction hinges, are used instead of butt hinges. Friction hinges have advantages in that they are not extemally visible when the window is closed, they obviate the need for a separate window stay, and they spread the weight of the window over a relatively large area of the frame part fixed to the wall.
Friction hinges are mounted usually on the two opposite sides of a window which are perpendicular to the hinge axis (although for certain applications only a single hinge be mounted on one side of a window which is perpendicular to the hinge axis). For example, for a window which swings open and closed about a generally upright axis, the friction hinges may be mounted along the top and bottom sides of the window. Similarly, for a window which swings about a generally horizontal axis, the friction hinges may be mounted along the vertical sides of the window.
Figure 1 shows one previously proposed friction hinge which is referred to herein as a compression hinge. As defined herein, a compression hinge is a friction hinge which includes an arrangement for guiding the leaf and the fixed frame into firm engagement along the rear edge - the rear edge of the leaf being the edge of the leaf which is parallel to the hinge axis and which pivots to a lesser degree when the leaf is opened or closed.
As shown, the hinge includes a fixed member 120, and a lightweight pivoting member 122 coupled to the fixed member by an arrangement of lightweight stays 124. A slider 126 slides in a channel of the fixed member 120. The pivoting member 122 carries a nose 128 at its upper end which locks in a recess 130 at the upper end of the fixed member 120 to positively locate the pivoting member 122 when in the closed position.
The nose 128 necessitates a compound vertical, pivoting and horizontal action of the hinge. To accomplish this, a relatively large number and complicated arrangement of stays 124 is required, which increases the cost of the hinge. Moreover, the large number of pivot points 132 makes the hinge vulnerable to wear. In addition, and particularly in 2 the final closed position - in which the nose 128 becomes levered into the recess 130 - the hinge is under considerable internal stress, and this is in addition to the weight of the window being supported.
Compressible elastomeric sealing strips are typically fitted to either the movable part of the window frame (also referred to herein as the leaf), or to the fixed part of the window frame (also referred to herein as the frame), or. to both parts, to provide a weather-tight seal when the window is closed. It has previously been appreciated that problems can arise with compression friction hinges in ensuring that the movable frame part or leaf is pulled firmly against the fixed. frame part to compress the elastomeric strip(s) into sealing engagement around the entire periphery of the frame. The problem is most apparent at the rear edge of the window opposite the lock or catch. If the elastomeric strip is not compressed properly to form a seal, draughts may result and, M extreme case, rainwater may leak through the seal particularly when the window is of a type which hinges upward about a horizontal upper axis (see Fig. 3).
When using a hinge such as that shown in Figure 1, the sealing characteristics of the window are attributed substantially to the nose 128 locking into the recess to hold the frames together when in the closed position. If the hinge is fitted incorrectly, or becomes slack due to wear, then the seal will be impaired.
The lightweight material normally used also makes the hinge suitable only for 20 supporting windows up to a quite modest size. As a consequence, these hinges are unsuitable for security applications, or for supporting heavy doors or shutters.
The problems associated with this type of compression hinge have been addressed by UK Patent Publication No. 2,312,914 and UK Patent Application Nos. 9913942.0, 9913943.8 and 9913948.7.
These documents disclose window and door assemblies comprising a movable leaf coupled by hinge means to a fixed frame to allow the movable leaf to be swung open and closed, the leaf including a front edge and a rear edge which pivots to a lesser extent than the front edge, and a co-operating spigot and socket which draw the frame together as the movable leaf is moved into its closed position.
Such a system can ensure reliable positioning of even large leafs (or frames) on closing, and avoid the occurrence of gaps between the movable leaf and the fixed frame. Advantageously, the spigot and socket additionally, or alternatively, functions to improve 3 the security of the window by resisting attempts to lever the leaf open. Attempts to lever the leaf from the frame can cause the spigot to move to ffictionally engage with walls of the socket, so that removal of the spigot from the socket is resisted.
The assemblies proposed in the aforementioned UK Patent Applications have been so effective that they have enabled so-called non-compression hinges to be used in place of more conventional compression hinges. As a result, it may no longer be necessary to use an expensive "compression" hinge of the type illustrated in Fig. 1. Instead, a much simpler non-compression hinge such as that shown in Fig. 2 could be employed in some applications.
As defined herein, a non-compression friction hinge is a friction hinge which does not include any arrangement for guiding the leaf and the fixed fi-ame into firm engagement along the rear edge. These non-compression hinges avoid the internal stresses which can occur in compression hinges and wear the hinge. The above arrangement also means that the mounting position of the hinge is no longer critical, since a seal can be achieved automatically by the interaction of the male spigot, and the female socket.
Figure 2 shows one such non-compression hinge. Referring to Fig. 2, the hinge consists generally of a fixed member 102, a pivoting member 104, and a single stay 106.
The pivoting member is coupled to a slider 108 which runs in a channel of the fixed member 102. In contrast to the type of hinge in Fig. 1, the hinge in Fig. 2 is not under internal stress as in Fig. 1. Coupled with the fact that the number of pivoting joints is reduced, the hinge is significantly less prone to wear than the type of hinge of Fig. 1.
A window assembly employing such a hinge can rely on the spigot and socket arrangements described above to achieve compression seals around its periphery, since the hinges would not achieve compression themselves.
In addition, instead of having to use lightweight stays, the hinge of Fig. 2 may be made of relatively thick, strong metal and be considerably stronger than conventional designs. This can enable the hinge to support significantly heavier loads.
Alternatively, a multi-stay hinge may still be desirable in some applications where the rear edge of the window needs to move out of the plane of the fixed frame.
Nevertheless, the compression nose and recess can be avoided, which relieves the hinge of internal stress, and provides reduced wear and longer hinge life. The absence of the 4 nose and recess also means that any hinge can be used as a left, or a right side hinge, since the pivoting member is able to swing either side of the fixed member as desired. This is highly advantageous as window manufacturers no longer have to maintain stocks of both right-handed and left-handed windows.
Whilst the assemblies previously proposed in the above mentioned patent applications provide many significant advantages it nevertheless has recently been noted that there may be potential for yet flu-ther improvement.
In particular, it has been noted that under sustained violent attack it may still be possible to lever the leaf from the frame despite the frictional or passive engagement of the spigot with the socket.
For the avoidance of doubt, it should be noted that the existing arrangements are more than adequate to secure windows and doors from all but the most determined of intruders, and further that it is difficult to apply sufficient force to cause the existing spigot/socket arrangement to fail. Nevertheless, the applicants have determined that it may still be possible to cause a failure of these existing devices. Accordingly, and in an effort to yet further improve security, the applicants have set out to alleviate the aforementioned problems.
In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a window or door assembly comprising a movable leaf coupled by hinge means to a stationary frame; a spigot (or projecting part) and socket arranged one on a rear edge of the leaf and the other on a corresponding edge of the frame so that the spigot locates in the socket as the leaf is closed along a normal closing path, and complementary interengagement means operable to lock the spigot to the socket if the rear edge of the closed leaf should be forced away from the frame transverse to the normal closing path.
Stated differently, this aspect of the invention provides a window or door assembly comprising a movable leaf coupled by hinge means to a stationary frame; a spigot and socket arranged one on a rear edge of the leaf and the other on a corresponding edge of the frame so that the spigot locates in the socket as the leaf is closed along a normal closing path and so that the spigot is withdrawn or removed from the socket as the leaf is opened along a normal opening path; the spigot and socket further comprising complementary interengagement means operable to lock the spigot to the socket if an attempt should be made to move the leaf away from the frame along a path other than along said normal opening path.
These arrangements are advantageous over previously proposed arrangements as they allow the spigot and socket to be positively locked or interengaged with one another when an attempt is made to lever the leaf from the frame, and hence they avoid the potential problem where an intruder could apply sufficient force to overcome the frictional engagement force provided by the aforementioned prior art arrangements. Advantageously, the hinge means may be a compression hinge or a noncompression hinge.
Preferably, the interengagement means comprises complementary engaging formations formed on said spigot and socket.
In one embodiment the complementary engaging formations comprise a projection on the spigot which can mesh, engage or lock with a wall of a complementary recess in the socket.
In another embodiment, the complementary engaging formations comprise a projection on the spigot which can mesh, engage or lock with an edge (or circumferential wall) of an aperture in a wall of the socket.
In another embodiment, le complementary engaging formations comprise a projection from a wall of the socket which can mesh, engage or lock with a recess in the spigot.
In another embodiment, the complementary engaging formations comprise a projection on the spigot which can mesh, engage or lock with a projection from a wall of the socket.
In the most preferred embodiment, the complementary engaging formations comprise a projection on the spigot and an edge of an aperture (preferably a square aperture) in a wall of the socket.
In the preferred embodiment, the spigot is carried on the leaf, and the socket is carded on the fixed fi-ame.
Preferably, the spigot and socket co-operate to draw the leaf to the frame as the movable leaf is moved into its closed position - although fi-fis is not always necessary particularly when the complementary interengagement formations are used with a compression hinge which provides the a suitable degree of compression. Preferably, at 6 least one of the spigot and socket comprises a tapered engagement surface. In a highly preferred embodiment, the spigot comprises a pin, shank or trunk with a tapered tip, and the socket comprises a tapered mouth. For example, the spigot may have a rounded, tapered or charnfered tip. Additionally, or alternatively, the socket may, for example, have a tapered surface around its mouth.
Preferably, the interengagement means on the spigot is provided between the tip and the pin, shank or trunk.
In a highly preferred embodiment, the spigot tip has a rounded or tapered profile on a first side for guiding entry of the spigot into the socket, and a blocking surface or profile on the opposite side for obstructing withdrawal of the spigot if skew in the socket.
Such an arrangement can improve security. For example, if a window frame typically of PVC-U plastics is levered, the frames will tend of twist, and this might normally risk withdrawal of the male part (spigot) from the female part (socket). However, by providing a blocking surface as above, such withdrawal can be further obstructed, if the male spigot is skew in the female socket.
The blocking surface may be formed by a generally flat, or generally square profile on, for example, the tip of the spigot. The flat surface may extend substantially along the length of the shank of the spigot. As mentioned above, it is preferred that the spigot interengaging formation is provided between the tip and the shank. In a preferred embodiment, the shank generally has a D-shaped cross section profile. However, other cross sectional shapes may also be employed such as polygonal, square, etc. The rounded profile of at least one side of the tip can guide entry of the spigot into the socket regardless of the cross sectional shape.
Preferably, the spigot is provided with reinforcement between the shank of the spigot and a base region. Preferably, the reinforcement is in the form of one or more webs (preferably integral) which buttress one or more sides of the shank. Such an arrangement can provide improved lateral strength and enable the spigot to withstand large lateral forces without risk of shearing from the base.
Preferably, the socket is- provided with a taper or ramp on an interior surface to progressively guide the spigot laterally as the spigot advances into the socket. Such an arrangement can provide improved compression of, for example, a window assembly as the window is moved to its fully closed position.
7 In a preferred embodiment, the taper is on a generally rounded, or arcuate, part of the interior surface.
A blocking surface may also be formed diametrically opposite the tapered surface, to block or obstruct withdrawal of the male spigot from the socket if skew at a 5 predetermined angle.
Preferably, the spigot is mounted in a channel of the leaf or frame, and means are provided for coupling the spigot to a reinforced region of the leaf or frame to provide additional support.
Such an arrangement can improve the lateral strength of the fixing of the spigot in the channel, and reduce the stress applied to the channel if, for example, a person tries to lever open the leaf from the fi-ame.
In a preferred embodiment, the coupling means comprises a support plate which overlaps the base of the spigot, and a reinforced part of the leaf Also, in a preferred embodiment, the reinforcement is provided by a reinforcing member received within the leaf.
Preferably, one or both of the spigot and the socket are provided with or more slotted screw holes to allow adjustment of the position of the spigot or socket once the position of the screws is determined, and means on the spigot or socket for gripping or biting into the surface of the window or door assembly when the screws are tightened, to prevent the spigot or socket from sliding on said surface.
In the preferred embodiment, the means for gripping or biting comprises one or more spikes which project rearwardly from a face part of the spigot or socket.
It will be seen therefore that the position of the spigot and/or the socket may be adjustable to vary the amount of compression.
A ftu-ther aspect of the invention provides a spigot for a window or door assembly as described herein. Another aspect of the invention provides a socket for a window or door assembly as described herein.
The spigot and socket may be supplied as a kit for retro-fitting to existing window or door assemblies.
Embodiments of the inventions are now described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a schematic view of a previously proposed compression hinge; 8 Figure 2 is a schematic view of a previously proposed non-compression hinge; Figure 3 is an end view of a window in its open position; Figure 4 is a schematic section through the window frame along the line X-X in Fig. 3; Figure 5 is a schematic section through the window frame as it approaches its closed condition; Figure 6 is a schematic section through the window frame in its fully closed condition; Figure 7 is a perspective view of a spigot in isolation; Figure 8 is a perspective view of a socket in isolation; Figure 9 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of male member on a frame; embodiment; Figure 10 is a front view of the spigot of Figure 9 in isolation; Figure 11 is a front view of the reinforcing plate in isolation; Figures 12 and 13 are schematic views showing the operation of the second Figure 14 is a front view of the socket of the second embodiment in isolation; and Figures 15, 16 and 17 are schematic cross-sectional views of a third, fourth and fifth embodiment of the invention respectively.
Aspects of the invention will now be described with particular reference to an embodiment where a spigot is provided on a leaf and a socket is provided on a fixed frame - the spigot and socket acting both to improve the security and sealing of the window. However, it should be noted that the present invention is not limited to such an arrangement as the spigot and socket could alternatively be mounted on the fixed fi-ame and the movable leaf, respectively, and need not necessarily be used to provide a compressive effect.
Figures 3 to 6 illustrate a window 10 consisting of a conventional fixed frame 12, and a conventional movable leaf 14 (also referred to herein as a movable frame) holding a pair of double glazing panels 16. The frame and leaf are made of extruded u-PVC plastics and are joined by a pair of sliding stay "friction" Iiinges 18. The friction hinges 9 18 are secured along the opposite left and right sides of the leaf and frame, such that the window can be swung open and closed about a generally horizontal upper axis.
Referring to Figures 4-6, the fixed frame 12 is hollow, with a generally inverted-L shaped profile. The movable leaf 14 is also hollow, with a generally inverted-T shaped or Z-shaped profile. The glazing panels 16 are secured to the movable leaf 14 by conventional glazing strips which are well known to the skilled man and so are not shown or described here.
An elastomeric sealing strip 20 is fitted to a portion 22 of the fixed frame 12 for sealing against a surface 24 of the movable leaf 14 when the window is closed. The sealing strip 20 is easily compressible, and is secured in place by a continuous elastomeric lug 26 received in a groove 28 of the frame portion 22. A similar elastomeric sealing strip 30 is also fitted to a portion 32 of the movable leaf 14 for sealing against a corresponding surface 34 of the fixed frame 12 when the window is closed.
A spigot 40 (also referred to herein as a male locating member or as a male spigot) is secured to the movable leaf 14 to face a socket 42 (also referred to herein as a female locating member or female socket) secured to the fixed frame 12. Referring to Figure 7, the spigot 40 consists of a generally rectangular solid base 44 from which projects an integrally formed solid pin 46. The pin 46 is generally circular in section with a chamfered surface 48 at its tip 50. In this embodiment, the pin 46 is provided with an engagement formation 47 that comprises a projecting barb, wall, edge or hook. The base 44 is dimensioned to fit within a so called Turo-groove" 52 of the leaf 14, and has laterally projecting lips 54 which sit in corresponding recesses 56 at the mouth of the Euro-groove 52. The base 44 is fastened in position by screws (not shown) received in counter-sunk bores 58 extending through the base 44.
Referring to Figure 8, the socket 42 consists of a hollow well 60 which depends integrally from a face plate 62. The mouth of the well 60 has an outwardly tapered surface 64. The face plate 62 is fastened in position on the fixed frame 12 by screws received in counter-sunk openings 66. A wall of the well 60 is provided with an engagement formation which comprises, in this embodiment, an aperture 61, and with which the projecting barb 47 of the spigot can mesh or interengage.
As best seen in Figure 6, when the window is open, the movable leaf 14 at the top of the window is moved down and away from the fixed frame 12 by the action of the friction hinges 18. Referring to Figures, 5 and 6, as the window is closed, the movable leaf 14 approaches the fixed frame 12 such that the tip 50 of the pin 46 enters the mouth of the well 60. The chamfered surface 48 of the tip 50 bears against the tapered mouth surface 64 of the well 60, thereby pulling the movable leaf 14 in the direction of the arrow 68 as the window is moved to its fully closed position. The progressive engagement of the pin 46 and the well 60 ensures that the leaf and frame 12 and 14 are pulled together sufficiently firmly to compress the elastomeric sealing strips 20 and 32 against the opposite sealing surfaces 24 and 34, respectively, to achieve a reliable seal. The progressive engagement also serves to correct any minor misalignment of the pin 46 relative to the well 60, thereby ensuring correct engagement each time the window is closed. When the leaf is closed and then opened in normal use, the spigot engagement formation 47 does not engage with the socket engagement formation 61 to resist removal of the spigot from the socket.
However, if an attempt should be made to lever the leaf from the fi-ame to open the window (i.e. if it should be attempted to open the window outside of normal use), then the interengagement formations 47 and 61 can interengage or mesh with one another to lock the spigot within the socket. This arrangement of the pin 46 and the well 60 further aids window security by preventing the frames from being forced apart along that edge by a burglar using, for example, a crowbar or other lever.
In this embodiment, the spigot and socket 40 and 42 are made of metal, for example, brass or steel, sufficiently strong to bear the engagement forces when the window is closed, and to withstand the wear of repeated engagement. Alternatively, the locating members could be made of other strong material, such as strong plastics material.
It will be appreciated that the embodiment described above provides a simple and yet effective means for ensuring that a reliable seal is formed when the window is closed, and yet further improves the security of the window. The male and female members can be fitted during installation of the window structure, or easily retrofitted to existing window fi-ames.
In this embodiment, the pin 46 is of about 1 em in diameter, and about 2. 22.5cm, in length. The well 60 has an internal diameter of about 1. 1 em, to leave a total clearance of lmm when the pin 46 is inserted in the well 60. Such a clearance is sufficient to 11 ensure that the pin 46 is not fouled (for example, if slightly misaligned) on entry into the well 60, but also ensures accurate positioning of the pin 46 relative to the well 60.
Although the spigot 40 described above is integrally formed, the pin 46 could be separate from the base 42 and be attached to the base by, for example, a screw thread. Alternatively, the base 42 could be omitted, and the pin 46 attached directly to the frame 14. Instead of a closed apertured well 60, the female member 42 could simply comprise an open apertured tube depending from the face plate.
Figs. 9-14 illustrate a modified embodiment of a spigot 70 and socket 72. These function in the same manner as that described above, but include additional features to 10 improve the security of the window frame.
Firstly, to improve the strength of the spigot 70, a pair of reinforcing webs 74 extend between the base 44 and the pin 46 on either side of the pin. The webs are formed integrally with the pin 46 and base 58, and buttress the pin 46 to enable the pin to withstand extremely high levering forces without risk of shearing from the base 44.
Secondly, a support plate 76 is fastened in front of the base 44 and around the pin 46. The support plate 76 has a cut-out 78 to permit the plate to be fitted over the pin 46 and, in this embodiment, the cut-out 78 is shaped to match tile general profile of the pin 46 and webs 74. Counter sunk screw holes 80 are formed in the support plate 76 in register with the holes 58 in the base 44, and the securing screws (not shown) pass through the support plate 76, through the base 44 and into the leaf.
The support plate 76 extends laterally on the leaf to overlap a reinforced region of the leaf which, in this embodiment, is provided by an internal reinforcing member 82 received in a central region of the leaf. Such reinforcing members 82 are often used in UPVC plastics frames to provide additional strength and are normally made of steel. The region of the support plate 76 overlapping the reinforcing member 82 is provided with screw holes 84 for receiving screws, shown schematically at 86, which are sufficiently long to screw into the reinforcing member 82. However, even if the reinforcing member 82 is omitted, the central region of the leaf alone can provide useful additional support as described below.
The purpose of the support plate 76 is to provide additional support to the male member 70 to prevent excess bending of the Euro-groove 88 in which the base 44 of the male member 70 is received. It will be appreciated that, without the support plate 76, any 12 lateral force exerted on the spigot 70 (for example if an attempt is made to lever the window open) is borne to a large extent by the base of the Euro-groove channel 88 into which the securing screws are screwed, and an external side wall 90 of the Euro-groove 88. Were it not for the complementary interengaging formations, and under extreme conditions, it is conceivable that the side wall 90 could flex and may deform sufficiently for the male member 70 to slip out of the female member 72. To further improve the security of the window, the support plate 76 transfers this load to the reinforcing member 82 (or to the reinforcing central region of the frame), which alleviates overloading of the plastics material on the external wall of the Euro-groove 88.
As best seen in the Figs. 12 and 13, the well 60 of the socket 72 is formed with an inwardly tapered interior surface 92 in addition to the tapered or chamfered mouth 64. In this embodiment the interior taper extends from the mouth tc, the rear wall 94 of the well 60, although the taper could be omitted, or shortened, if desired. The purpose of the interior tapered surface 92 is to provide additional progressive compression of the leaf and frame as the pM 46 moves flirther into the well 60. This can further improve compression of the elastomeric sealing surfaces of the frames, to achieve an excellent weatherproof seal.
As best seen in Fig. 14, in this embodiment, the screw holes 66 of the face place 62 of the socket are formed as slots extending in the transverse direction. These slots allow lateral adjustment of the socket 72 on the frame when the securing screws are loosened. This provides two distinct advantages. Firstly, it is not necessary to have to drill thescrew holes in the frame with high positional accuracy, because the socket 72 can be adjusted laterally to provide the correct engagement with the spigot 70 to achieve compression on closing. Thus the drilling of the holes is far less critical, and can be carried out much more rapidly by a workman or engineer. Furthermore, the adjustability of the socket 72 means that it can even be retro-fitted by a non-skilled person, for example, a DIY enthusiast.
The second advantage is that the position of the socket 72 can be adjusted to compensate for ageing of the window and frame. For example, if the frame has warped slightly with age, or if the hinges have slackened, such that a greater degree of compression is required to achieve a weather-tight seal, then it will be a simple matter to adjust the position of the socket 72 to achieve increased compression.
13 As best seen in Figs. 12-14, a number of gripper spikes 96 project rearwardly from the rear face of the face plate 62 of the socket 72. In this embodiment, the spikes are located in each comer of the face plate adjacent to the elongate screw holes 66, and adjacent to the well 60. In use, when the securing screws are tightened to press the face plate 62 against the surface of the frame, the spikes 96 penetrate the plastics material of the frame to securely anchor the socket 72 in position. Without these spikes 96, there may be a tendency for the elongate screw holes 66 to allow the socket 72 to slip laterally under the high forces experienced when the pin 46 enters the well 60. Such slippage may occur despite the securing screws being tight. Ho wever, th provision of the anchoring spikes 96 can prevent such slippage. It will be appreciated that other forms of gripping means, such as sharp edges or teeth, may be used to grip or bite into the plastics material when the securing screws for the socket 72 are tightened.
Referring to Figures 9-10 and 12-13, the tip 50 of the pin 46 of the male member 70 is formed with a generally square profile on one side. In this embodiment, the square profile is achieved by the pin 46 being is flattened on one side, so that the pin has a flat surface 98 running substantially the length of the pin. As best seen in Figure 8, the pin 46 thus has a D-shaped cross section. Similarly, as best seen in Figure 14, the interior surface of the well 60 is formed with a complementary flat surface 100 which is diametrically opposite the interior tapered surface 92. As shown, the spigot interengaging formation 47 is provided on the flat surface 98 of the pin. In addition, although not visible in Figure 14, the socket interengaging formation is provided on the flat surface 100 of the socket.
Referring to Fig. 12, the well 60 is dimensioned such that, in use, when the pin 46 is received within the well 60, the flat surface 98 of the pin 46 is adjacent, but slightly spaced from, the flat surface 100 of the well 60. Therefore, the flat surfaces 98 and 100 do not hinder entry of the pin 46 into the well 60. Although the pin 46 may initially enter the mouth of the well 60 at a skew angle, the larger interior dimension of the well in the mouth region, and the "straightening" of the pin 46 as the window closes, means that the pin 46 can slide fully home into the well 60 without obstruction.
When the window is opened in the usual way, the pill 46 is withdrawn from the well 60 by following in reverse substantially the same path as that during entry. Therefore, removal of the pin is not obstructed.
14 However, referring to Fig. 13, if a person attempts to lever open the frames along the rear edge of the window, the force results in the window and fixed frames twisting relative to each other, such that the pin 46 twists away from the interior taper surface 92 into contact with the opposite flat socket surface 100, and such that the spigot interengaging formation (which in this embodiment is a projection) meshes or engages with the socket interengaging formation (which in this embodiment is an aperture in the wall of the well). When engaged, the square tip of the pin 46, the flat surface 100 of the socket 72 and the complementary interengaging formations 47 and 61 co-operate with each other to block withdrawal of the pin 46. It will be appreciated that, even if the tip 50 were to be tapered around the whole of its surface (as in the first embodiment), improved security would still be provided by the complementary interengaging formations 47 and 61.
It will further be appreciated that the spigot 70 and the socket 72 should be installed such that the rounded surface of the pin 46 and the tapered surface 92 of the well 60 engage to draw the window into sealing engagement with the fixed frame as the window is closed. As best seen in Figs. 10 and 13, the members are provided with the letters "L" and "R", and the members should be orientated so that the appropriate letter is upright when the window is left opening, or right opening, respectively.
The above described first and second embodiments are highly preferred arrangements particularly because the socket and socket interengaging formation (i.e. the aperture) can be relatively easily formed by conventional casting or moulding processes. Figure 15 shows another particularly preferred embodiment. Alternative embodiments are shown with reference to figures 16 and 17, however these embodiments are less preferred as it would be more difficult to mould or cast an interengaging formation within the socket well - particularly if the socket were to be of metal, for example of brass or steel.
Referring now to Figure 15, the spigot 80 of this embodiment is provided (as in the above described first embodiment) with a projection 82 that can mate with a closed cup-like recess 84 in a wall 86 of the socket 88. The spigot projection of this embodiment is provided, in common with the spigot of the first embodiment and as shown, by an undercut portion of the-tip of the spigot. In an alternative arrangement (such as the second embodiment), the projection could extend beyond the periphery of the shank but this arrangement is less preferable as it would be more difficult to maintain a suitable clearance between the spigot and the socket during normal use.
Figures 16 and 17 show ftirther embodiments w1iich ere less preferred largely due to the fact that they would be more difficult to mould or cast. In the embodiment of Figure 16, the socket wall and the spigot are formed with oppositely directed projections 90, 92 that can meshingly engage to lock the spigot to the socket. In the embodiment of Figure 17, the spigot is formed with a recess 94 with which a projection 94 on the inner wall of the socket well can engage.
In all of the above described embodiments a number of male and female parts pairs will typically be used, spaced apart along the rear edge of the leaf. The number of pairs will depend on the size of window, and on whether a sealing problem is known to exist with the leaf in the frame.
It should also be noted that the complementary interengaging formations do not have to provide a compressive function and could instead be provided solely to improve the security of the door or window to which they are fitted or retro- fitted.
Although the above embodiments have been described in relation to windows, it will be appTeciated that the male and female members could be used on other assemblies, such as door assemblies. The description of the preferred embodiments is not intended to be limited in this respect.
It will further be appreciated that many finther modifications may be made within the scope of the invention.
For example, if the socket and spigot arrangement were to be used without providing compression then the complementary interengagement means could be provided on the other of the socket and spigot to that illustrcled in the drawings.
16

Claims (1)

1. A window or door assembly comprising a movable leaf coupled by hinge means to a stationary frame; a spigot and socket arranged one on a rear edge of the leaf and the other on a corresponding edge of the frame so that the spigot locates in the socket as the leaf is closed along a normal closing path, and complementary interengagement means operable to lock the spigot to the socket if the rear edge of the closed leaf should be forced away from the frame transverse to the normal closing path.
2. A window or door assembly comprising a movable leaf coupled by hinge means to a stationary frame; a spigot and socket arranged one on a rear edge of the leaf and the other on a corresponding edge of the frame so that the spigot locates in the socket as the leaf is closed along a normal closing path and so that the spigot is withdrawn or removed from the socket as the leaf is opened along a normal opening path; the spigot and socket further comprising complementary interengagement means operable to lock the spigot to the socket if an attempt should be made to move the leaf away from the frame along a path other than along said normal opening path.
n An assembly according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein the hinge means is a 20 compression hinge or a non-compression hinge.
4. An assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the interengagement means comprises complementary engaging formations formed or provided on said spigot and socket.
An assembly according to Claim 4, wherein the complementary engaging formations comprise a projection on the spigot which can mesh, engage or lock with a wall of a complementary recess in the socket.
17 6. An assembly according to Claim 4, wherein the complementary engaging formations comprise a projection on the spigot which can mesh, engage or lock with an edge (or circumferential wall) of an aperture in a wall of the socket.
7. An assembly according to Claim. 4, wherein the complementary engaging formations comprise a projection from a wall of the socket which can mesh, engage or lock with a recess in the spigot.
8. An assembly according to Claim 4, wherein the complementary engaging formations comprise a projection on the spigot which can mesh, engage or lock with a projection from a wall of the socket.
9. An assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the spigot is carried on the leaf, and the socket is carried on the fixed fi-ame.
10. An assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the spigot comprises a pin, shank or trunk and a tip.
Apparatus according to Claim 10, wherein the interengagement means on the spigot is provided between the tip and the pin, shank or trunk.
12. An assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the spigot and socket co-operate to draw the leaf to the frame as the movable leaf is moved into its closed position.
13. An assembly according to Claim 12, wherein at least one of the spigot and socket comprises a tapered engagement surface.
14. An assembly according to Claim 12 or 13, wherein the spigot comprises a pin, 30 shank or trunk with a tapered tip, and the socket comprises a tapered mouth.
18 15. An assembly according to Claim 10 or to any of Claims I I to 14 when dependent upon claim 10, wherein the spigot tip has a rounded or tapered profile on a first side for guiding entry of the spigot into the socket, and a blocking surface or profile on the opposite side for obstructing withdrawal of the spigot if skew in the socket.
16. An assembly according to Claim 15, wherein the blocking surface is formed by a generally flat, or generally square profile on, for example, the tip of the spigot.
17. An assembly according to Claim 16, wherein the flat surface extends substantially 10 along the length of the shank of the spigot.
18. An assembly according to Claim 17, wherein the shank generally has a D-shaped cross section profile.
19. An assembly according to any preceding claim wherein the spigot is provided with reinforcement between a shank portion of the spigot and a base region.
20. An assembly according to Claim 19, wherein the reinforcement is in the form of one or more webs (preferably integral) which buttress one or more sides of the shank.
21. An assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the socket is provided with a taper or ramp on an interior surface to progressively guide the spigot laterally as the spigot advances into the socket.
22. An assembly according to Claim 21, wherein the taper is on a generally rounded, or arcuate, part of the interior surface.
2 3. An assembly according to Claim 22, wherein a blocking surface may also be formed diametrically opposite the tapered surface, to block or obstruct withdrawal of the 30 male spigot from the socket if skew at a predetermined angle.
19 24. An assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the spigot is mounted in a channel of the leaf or frame, and means are provided for coupling the spigot to a reinforced region of the leaf or frame to provide additional support.
25. An assembly according to Claim 24, wherein the coupling means comprises a support plate which overlaps the base of the spigot and a reinforced part of the leaf.
26. An assembly according to Claim 25, wherein the reinforcement is provided by a reinforcing member received within the leaf.
27. An assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein one or both of the spigot and the socket are provided with or more slotted screw holes to allow adjustment of the position of the spigot or socket once the position of the screws is determined, and means on the spigot or socket for gripping or biting into the surface of the window or door assembly when the screws are tightened, to prevent the spigot or socket from sliding on said surface.
28. An assembly according to Claim 27, wherein the means for gripping or biting comprises one or more spikes which project rearwardly from a face part of the spigot or socket.
29. A spigot for a window or door assembly according to any preceding claim.
A socket for a window or door assembly according to any preceding claim.
31. A kit for retro-fitting to existing window or door assemblies, the kit comprising a spigot and a socket, the spigot and socket being provided with complementary interengaging formations.
32. An assembly, socket, spigot or kit substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
GB0012065A 2000-05-18 2000-05-18 Improvements relating to windows and doors Expired - Fee Related GB2362417B (en)

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GB0012065A GB2362417B (en) 2000-05-18 2000-05-18 Improvements relating to windows and doors

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Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB0012065A GB2362417B (en) 2000-05-18 2000-05-18 Improvements relating to windows and doors

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GB2362417A true GB2362417A (en) 2001-11-21
GB2362417B GB2362417B (en) 2004-04-21

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Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2007087946A1 (en) * 2006-01-31 2007-08-09 Dr. Hahn Gmbh & Co. Kg Assembly for securing a leaf or casement in a frame

Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2281090A (en) * 1993-08-19 1995-02-22 Ronald Shaw Security device for windows
GB2287978A (en) * 1994-03-25 1995-10-04 J E Reynolds & Co Ltd Security bolt
GB2299823A (en) * 1995-04-05 1996-10-16 Kbe Kunststoffprod Gmbh Security device for windows and doors
GB2307937A (en) * 1995-12-08 1997-06-11 W M S Group Ltd Security device for windows having components mounted on the wing and the frame which cooperate during opening in an abnormal path to impede a prising attack
GB2335456A (en) * 1998-03-17 1999-09-22 Wagner Window or door arrangement having a security bolt fitted on the hinged side
GB2337552A (en) * 1996-05-09 1999-11-24 Giovanni Maria Laporta Spigot and socket closure arrangement for windows and doors
GB2343477A (en) * 1998-11-04 2000-05-10 Trojan Hardware & Designs Ltd Door or window security device with two parts having cooperating projections and apertures

Patent Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2281090A (en) * 1993-08-19 1995-02-22 Ronald Shaw Security device for windows
GB2287978A (en) * 1994-03-25 1995-10-04 J E Reynolds & Co Ltd Security bolt
GB2299823A (en) * 1995-04-05 1996-10-16 Kbe Kunststoffprod Gmbh Security device for windows and doors
GB2307937A (en) * 1995-12-08 1997-06-11 W M S Group Ltd Security device for windows having components mounted on the wing and the frame which cooperate during opening in an abnormal path to impede a prising attack
GB2337552A (en) * 1996-05-09 1999-11-24 Giovanni Maria Laporta Spigot and socket closure arrangement for windows and doors
GB2335456A (en) * 1998-03-17 1999-09-22 Wagner Window or door arrangement having a security bolt fitted on the hinged side
GB2343477A (en) * 1998-11-04 2000-05-10 Trojan Hardware & Designs Ltd Door or window security device with two parts having cooperating projections and apertures

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2007087946A1 (en) * 2006-01-31 2007-08-09 Dr. Hahn Gmbh & Co. Kg Assembly for securing a leaf or casement in a frame

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
GB0012065D0 (en) 2000-07-12
GB2362417B (en) 2004-04-21

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Effective date: 20120518