GB2477977A - Radiator comprising radiator panels where at least two of the radiator panels are horizontally spaced apart and vertically offset - Google Patents

Abstract

The radiator comprises a plurality of radiator panels that are fluidly connected with one another. At least two of the plurality of panels are horizontally spaced apart and vertically offset. The radiator may be mounted to a floor or wall, or hung from a roof structure, support beam, floor joist or the like. Plugs may be used to close fluid connections on the radiator panels that are not used to fluidly connect with other panels. The radiator may be used for domestic or commercial heating and may comprise a structural member such as a wall, steps, seating or shelving. A radiator having panels that are connected at differing angles to one another to form a radiator having a curved or circular shape is also described.

Description

Alternative assembly configuration for sectional radiators.

Existing sectional radiators in their conventional form; assembled in parallel creating a single bank of common height with a variable number of sections, have been manufactured for over a hundred years and this continues today. The basic design of radiator sections has not changed, nor has the method of assembly. Although structurally rigid, their quadrilateral shape makes them less versatile, where space, weight and artistic design is a consideration.

Statement of invention

The practice of connecting conventionally designed radiator sections in Series rather than in Parallel. This change enables radiators to be assembled in a multitude of different configurations having more than one Bank of sections that alter, shape, weight, and heat output.

Ref Fig 1 a. Two conventionally designed radiator sections are connected in Series enabling more then one Bank, which forms the basic principle of my invention. The Detail' showing method of connection by use of a threaded Turnbuckle' nipple A' located in the threaded female' apertures C' & D' with machined sealing face B' on both sections, one aperture tapped with a left hand thread and the other tapped with a right hand thread.

Ref Fig lb. This shows the same radiator sections on Fig 1 a but in contrast, the sections assembled in Parallel, restricted to only a single Bank. This is the limiting method of assembly my invention overcomes, originally driven by Rigidity issues and convention.

Ref Fig ic. This shows the structure of a typical conventionally assembled sectional radiator. Without the requirement of any additional components, this assembly can be converted into a multitude of different structures by allowing sections to be assembled in Series. Please note the Representational Symbol' I will use in diagrams to describe my invention in simple terms.

For the purpose of clear explanation, I will refer to reconfigured radiators incorporating the In Series Assembly' method (shown in fig la) as New Build'. (Not applicable in Claims text) New Build radiators form versatile structures, more adaptable to many architectural design requirements usually associated with modern needs. This can be achieved using existing components used for conventional Parallel assembled' radiators.

Ref Fig 2. The rigidity of larger New Build assemblies is assured by mounting radiators on a basic rigid frame as an option. Frame is constructed to correspond with radiator dimensions. Frame is secured to wall in this example by brackets at points A'. The gross weight of the assembly is supported by the hook at point B'. The fins of the sections are retained within channel' formed steel used as the construction material and are secured into place with optional straps at points C'. Plumbing pipework will also provide additional support.

Ref Fig 3. The large number of varied designs enable New Build radiators to be considered as a solution, where units assembled conventionally would not. New build units can provide an answer to many architectural design challenges. New Build radiator assemblies can be built combining sections of different size, creating specific shapes and styles to satisfy a variety of demands. The diagram shows a limited number of simple configurations, B', C', D', each expanded to three Banks. A' shows a three Bank assembly using different sized sections. Note the representative symbol' used to simplify the diagrams.

Ref Fig 4. Sections can be mounted in strings' or circuits' as the particular application dictates. Strings can be straight as in A' or change direction, bending through 360" to form a Circuit B'. Any polygon shape of any number of sections can be formed.

Ref Fig 4a. Diagram showing five sections forming a curve A'.

Ref Fig 5. New Build configuration units can incorporate conventionally assembled section Banks. Diagram shows assembly with three Banks all containing sections assembled conventionally, in Parallel.

All required assembly components are commonly available in the market place as are wall mount' fixings. The specific section' joining technique is the same as used for conventional radiator assemblies. (Opposing sections to be joined, each threaded accordingly with left and right hand thread, having a corresponding turn buckle screw nipple' as detailed in Fig Ia) New build units can be created using new or restored conventional radiator sections provided they have compatible connections.

All structures possible including examples shown may be used for heating purposes or as structural entities like steps, barriers, walls, or seats. They may also be used for artistic and ornamental purposes. S 3

Detailed description

RefFig6 The form a New Build radiator assembly takes is largely dictated by the connection points available allowing expansion horizontally or vertically. Common patterns of assembly structure can be seen. The scope for building different structures is rather like that of'LEGO' any structures can be built in accordance with the ability of the Section' components to connect to each other. Other sections can be added to a section in series or in parallel, directly or indirectly. To add a section in series will either add to' or create' a Bank. To add a section in parallel will oniy add to a Bank. If you add to a section in Series mid-bank' at point B' then you may need to add a section to the opposite end in the same way to cross' the gap shown at points A'. One variation to this design utilizing connecting bushes C' that can take the place of a section will enable more variety of shapes to be constructed Note Symbols for Plug and Heating Medium.

Ref Fig 7 A. Where space is limited, for example on a porch or corridor, piers at each side of the door may be used to attach three longer and thinner radiator units assembled in Series as in A' This is in contrast to the conventional six section unit assembled in parallel where no suitable location is available that would not restrict access / egress.

Note Plug and Heat Medium symbols used and suggested locations. Mount Frame not shown Ref Fig 7 B. Where there is no or limited wall space then New Build Sections may be installed along skirting boards horizontally at low level. The diagram shows four sections strung along a skirting board, partly supported by legs. Note Plug and Heat Medium symbols used and suggested locations. Mount Frame not shown Ref Fig 7 C. New Build design shapes may complement building structures. Note Plug and Heat Medium symbols used and suggested locations. Mount Frame not shown Ref Fig 8. New build structures can be fitted where wall space is limited or irregular in shape for practical or aesthetic reasons. Drawing a' shows an under stairs' installation.

Drawing b' installation around fixed objects. Note Plug and Heat Medium symbols used and suggested locations. Mount Frame not shown Ref Fig 9. New build structures can be expanded as shown. Sections positioned horizontally in a string can be built up vertically. For example, A' would be suitable to be positioned around a pillar. Any polygon shape is possible and any height theoretically achievable. Example B' would be suitable positioned to follow the contour of a curved wall. Note; Plugs and Tie-in points not shown. Mount Frame not shown Ref Fig 10. Diagram A' shows a helix type shape built on a common vertical axis.

Diagram B' shows a spiral shape expandable in a common longdetudinal plane or in an upward or downward direction. Note; Plugs and Tie-in points not shown. Mount Frame not shown Glossary.

Sections radiator sections' Units Radiators' Conventional Typical existing design of section or assembly method of sectional radiators.

New build unconventionally assembled radiators incorporating sections assembled in Series' Bank row of sections assembled in parallel' LEGO popular children's play activity' Mid-bank a point within a row of sections assembled in parallel' String a number single sections or Banks connected in series'

Claims (16)

1. CLAIMS1. Radiator sections assembled in Series allowing structures to be expanded creating configurations only limited by the tbiIity of any number of section' components to connect to each other in any possible configuration.
2. 2. Sectional radiator assemblies in accordance with claim 1 where components assembled conventionally' in parallel may be incorporated.
3. 3. Sectional radiator assemblies in accordance with claim I and 2 where sections can be connected at different angles in relation to each other forming circular or curved shapes.
4. 4. Sectional radiator assemblies in accordance with claim 1, 2 and 3 where sections can be connected in series to form long strings of any length containing any number of sections.
5. 5. Sectional radiator assemblies in accordance with claim 1, 2, 3 and 4 where the ends of a string' are joined to make a circuit.
6. 6. Sectional radiator assemblies in accordance with claim 1, 2,3, 4 and 5 where sections can be added vertically and horizontally in series and in parallel making the assembly as long and as wide as available connections will allow where required.
7. 7. Sectional radiator assemblies in accordance with claim 1, 2, 3,4, 5 and 6 where section components can be of any compatible size in length, width, thickness, shape and weight.
8. 8. Sectional radiator assemblies in accordance with all claims where any number of plumbing connections can be made at any available connection to allow a flow of heating medium through the assembly.
9. 9. Sectional radiator assemblies in accordance with all claims suitable for domestic and commercial applications.
10. 10. Sectional radiator assemblies in accordance with claim 1, 2, 3,4, 5 and 6 where sections are connected by screw, weld or flange or any other suitable mechanical means.
11. 11. Sectional radiator assemblies in accordance with claim 1, 2, 3,4, 5, 6 and 10 where New build structures are wall mounted or floor mounted or hung from a support beam or roof structure or floor joist or structure.
12. 12. Sectional radiator assemblies in accordance with claim 1, 2, 3,4, 5, 6, 10 and 11 that are constructed of old, reclaimed or new modern sections made of Steel, Cast Iron or Aluminum.
13. 13. Sectional radiator assemblies in accordance with claim 1, 2, 3,4, 5, 6, 10, 11 and 12 where sections can be replaced with spacer-bushes to allow sections to be attached indirectly and made of hollow tube or solid construction to determine heating medium flow path.
14. 14. Sectional radiator assemblies in accordance with claim 1, 2, 3,4, 5, 6, 10, 11,12 and 13 where section unions not being utilized for the coupling of sections are plugged or bushed using flange faced plugs or not with a corresponding thread to facilitate a terminal point in the structure or to allow electrical equipment or pipes, or vents or instruments to be installed.
15. 15. Sectional radiator assemblies in accordance with claim 1, 2, 3,4, 5, 6, 10, 11,12, 13 and 14 where all and any structures described can be used for heating purposes or exclusively as structural entities including walls, barriers, steps, seats, rails, shelves or artistic or ornamental purposes or a combination of all or any purpose described.
16. 16. Sectional radiator assemblies in accordance with claim 1, 2, 3,4, 5, 6, 10, 11,12, 13,14 and 15 where all structures described can be orientated in any position as required or possible at the physical point of installation.