GB2533463A - Shower enclosure frame fixing means and method of use thereof - Google Patents

Shower enclosure frame fixing means and method of use thereof Download PDF

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Publication number
GB2533463A
GB2533463A GB1518498.9A GB201518498A GB2533463A GB 2533463 A GB2533463 A GB 2533463A GB 201518498 A GB201518498 A GB 201518498A GB 2533463 A GB2533463 A GB 2533463A
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GB
United Kingdom
Prior art keywords
shower
fixing means
engagement
frame fixing
body portion
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
GB1518498.9A
Other versions
GB201518498D0 (en
GB2533463B (en
Inventor
Delaney Paul
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Cassellie Ltd
Original Assignee
Cassellie Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Cassellie Ltd filed Critical Cassellie Ltd
Publication of GB201518498D0 publication Critical patent/GB201518498D0/en
Publication of GB2533463A publication Critical patent/GB2533463A/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of GB2533463B publication Critical patent/GB2533463B/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47K—SANITARY EQUIPMENT NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; TOILET ACCESSORIES
    • A47K3/00—Baths; Douches; Appurtenances therefor
    • A47K3/28—Showers or bathing douches
    • A47K3/30—Screens or collapsible cabinets for showers or baths
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
    • E06B—FIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES OR LIKE ENCLOSURES IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES
    • E06B3/00—Window sashes, door leaves, or like elements for closing wall or like openings; Layout of fixed or moving closures, e.g. windows in wall or like openings; Features of rigidly-mounted outer frames relating to the mounting of wing frames
    • E06B3/96—Corner joints or edge joints for windows, doors, or the like frames or wings
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
    • E06B—FIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES OR LIKE ENCLOSURES IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES
    • E06B3/00—Window sashes, door leaves, or like elements for closing wall or like openings; Layout of fixed or moving closures, e.g. windows in wall or like openings; Features of rigidly-mounted outer frames relating to the mounting of wing frames
    • E06B3/96—Corner joints or edge joints for windows, doors, or the like frames or wings
    • E06B3/964—Corner joints or edge joints for windows, doors, or the like frames or wings using separate connection pieces, e.g. T-connection pieces
    • E06B3/968—Corner joints or edge joints for windows, doors, or the like frames or wings using separate connection pieces, e.g. T-connection pieces characterised by the way the connecting pieces are fixed in or on the frame members
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
    • E06B—FIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES OR LIKE ENCLOSURES IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES
    • E06B1/00—Border constructions of openings in walls, floors, or ceilings; Frames to be rigidly mounted in such openings
    • E06B1/04—Frames for doors, windows, or the like to be fixed in openings
    • E06B1/52—Frames specially adapted for doors
    • E06B1/524—Mullions; Transoms
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
    • E06B—FIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES OR LIKE ENCLOSURES IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES
    • E06B3/00—Window sashes, door leaves, or like elements for closing wall or like openings; Layout of fixed or moving closures, e.g. windows in wall or like openings; Features of rigidly-mounted outer frames relating to the mounting of wing frames
    • E06B3/96—Corner joints or edge joints for windows, doors, or the like frames or wings
    • E06B3/964—Corner joints or edge joints for windows, doors, or the like frames or wings using separate connection pieces, e.g. T-connection pieces
    • E06B3/9642—Butt type joints with at least one frame member cut off square; T-shape joints
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
    • E06B—FIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES OR LIKE ENCLOSURES IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES
    • E06B3/00—Window sashes, door leaves, or like elements for closing wall or like openings; Layout of fixed or moving closures, e.g. windows in wall or like openings; Features of rigidly-mounted outer frames relating to the mounting of wing frames
    • E06B3/96—Corner joints or edge joints for windows, doors, or the like frames or wings
    • E06B3/964—Corner joints or edge joints for windows, doors, or the like frames or wings using separate connection pieces, e.g. T-connection pieces
    • E06B3/968—Corner joints or edge joints for windows, doors, or the like frames or wings using separate connection pieces, e.g. T-connection pieces characterised by the way the connecting pieces are fixed in or on the frame members
    • E06B3/9687—Corner joints or edge joints for windows, doors, or the like frames or wings using separate connection pieces, e.g. T-connection pieces characterised by the way the connecting pieces are fixed in or on the frame members with screws blocking the connecting piece inside or on the frame member
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
    • E06B—FIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES OR LIKE ENCLOSURES IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES
    • E06B3/00—Window sashes, door leaves, or like elements for closing wall or like openings; Layout of fixed or moving closures, e.g. windows in wall or like openings; Features of rigidly-mounted outer frames relating to the mounting of wing frames
    • E06B3/96—Corner joints or edge joints for windows, doors, or the like frames or wings
    • E06B3/964—Corner joints or edge joints for windows, doors, or the like frames or wings using separate connection pieces, e.g. T-connection pieces
    • E06B3/968—Corner joints or edge joints for windows, doors, or the like frames or wings using separate connection pieces, e.g. T-connection pieces characterised by the way the connecting pieces are fixed in or on the frame members
    • E06B3/98—Corner joints or edge joints for windows, doors, or the like frames or wings using separate connection pieces, e.g. T-connection pieces characterised by the way the connecting pieces are fixed in or on the frame members the connecting pieces being specially adapted for drawing the frame members towards each other

Abstract

The apparatus 8 for fixing a first shower frame member 4 to at least a second member 6 comprises a body portion 10 and an engagement member 28. The engagement member engages with the body portion and the first member, with a cam lock 40 fixing them in place. The apparatus may be integrally formed with or detachable from the second member. The engagement member may have a first end comprising a head 30 engageable with the body portion and a second end comprising a threaded section 34 engageable with the first member. The engagement member may be in the form of a cam dowel, and rotation of the cam lock may cause the linear movement of the engagement member. The body portion may include an aperture 26 for receiving the cam lock. The apparatus may be insertable into the second frame member.

Description

Shower Enclosure Frame Fixing Means and Method of Use Thereof This invention relates to a shower enclosure frame fixing means and to a method of use thereof.
A common arrangement for providing a shower in a bathroom location is the provision of a shower enclosure comprising a shower tray surrounded by one or more panel members. The panel members can be fixed or movably mounted with respect to a wall or the shower tray as required. Shower enclosures are generally sold and transported in a flat packed or kit arrangement for construction by a plumber or bathroom fitter on site at a customer's bathroom. The assembly and fitting of the shower enclosure can be complex and time consuming.
GB2497801 discloses a means for fitting the frame of a shower enclosure together. The shower enclosure is of a type having at least one panel supported along at least two adjacent edges by respective frame members. A frame connector is provided comprising a unitary body having a first limb to which each of the two frame members is connectable, and a second limb for closing the end of one of the two frame members. The body has apertures for receiving retaining screws therein in use to allow the frame connector to be secured to the frame members.
GB2486627 discloses a further frame connection arrangement for a shower enclosure. The frame comprises first and second elongate frame members which are interconnected such that the second frame member extends outwardly from a longitudinal side of the first frame member. A joining member is slidably received in a channel which extends longitudinally of the first frame member along the side thereof. The joining member is fastened to a proximal end of the second frame member by retaining screws that pass through a plurality of apertures in the joining member.
Problems associated with both of the abovementioned frame connection arrangements is that they require retaining screws to secure the connection of the frame members together. The fitting of retaining screws can be fiddly and time consuming. The location of the retaining screws within apertures in the frame members can be difficult, particularly if a plurality of apertures on adjacent frame members have to be aligned and/or the locations or dimensions of the apertures have not been engineered with sufficient precision to allow easy alignment. Shower enclosures are often fitted in confined spaces where access to all sides of the frame during the fitting process can be restricted. The prior art arrangements typically require a fitter to be fitting the retaining screws from an end or side of the upright frame member, which is often difficult to access.
It is therefore an aim of the present invention to provide shower enclosure frame fixing means which overcomes the abovementioned problems.
It is a further aim of the present invention to provide a method of using shower enclosure frame fixing means which overcomes the abovementioned problems.
According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided shower enclosure frame fixing means for fixing a first shower frame member to at least a second shower frame member in use, said frame fixing means including a body portion and engagement means for engaging the body portion to at least the first shower frame member in use, and wherein said engagement means includes an engagement member engageable with said body portion and said first shower frame member in use, and cam locking means for locking the engagement member in place with the first shower frame member and the body portion in use.
Thus, the present invention uses a cam lock, engagement member and a body portion for securing two frame components of a shower enclosure or shower panel frame together in use. This mechanism removes the requirement for retaining screws to be used, thereby requiring less skill and time for the fitter to fit the same in use, reduces the engineering precision required in the frame components to fit the same accurately together, and allows the fitter to actuate the fixing components from a front or rear of the shower enclosure or shower panel, where space is less restricted for the fitter, compared to that of the prior art arrangements where the fitter needs to have access from an end or side of the upright frame member. Although it is appreciated that cam and dowel type arrangements are commonly used in wooden furniture fittings, the applicants are not aware of such fixing arrangements being used in shower enclosures or shower panel frames, and further in shower arrangements which employ metal, aluminium and/or plastic fittings.
Preferably the engagement member is an elongate member, such as for example an elongate pin like member.
Preferably a first end of the engagement member engages with the body portion and a second end of the engagement member engages with the first shower frame member.
Preferably the engagement member has an engagement head located at the first end thereof and a threaded section located at or adjacent the second or opposite end thereof.
Preferably the engagement head is arranged to engage with the body portion of the frame fixing means, and the threaded section is arranged to engage with a complementary threaded section of the first shower frame member in use.
Preferably an intermediate section of the engagement member between the first end or engagement head and the second end or threaded section has a greater diameter or cross sectional dimensions compared to the first and/or second ends. The greater diameter section typically allows the engagement member to be secured in a channel defined in the frame fixing means and/or first shower frame member in use via friction fit. The narrower dimensions of the engagement head relative to the intermediate section typically allows the engagement head to be engaged with the cam locking means in use.
In one embodiment the engagement member is in the form of a cam dowel. Preferably the cam dowel is made of metal, plastic and/or the like.
Preferably the cam locking means includes a locking means or member which has one or more cam surfaces defined therein or thereon. The One or more cam surfaces are arranged such that rotation of the cam locking means causes linear, and substantially linear, movement of the engagement member relative thereto in use. For example, with an engagement head of the engagement member located with or in the cam locking means, rotation of the cam locking means in a first direction moves the engagement member in a linear path further towards the cam locking member. Rotation of the cam locking means in a second or opposite direction moves the engagement member in a linear path away from the cam locking means.
Preferably a longitudinal axis of movement of the engagement member in use is transverse, perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the cam locking means in use.
Preferably the cam locking means is rotatable about a substantially central axis. The axis of rotation is preferably provided in a direction between the front and rear surfaces of the cam locking means and/or body portion of the frame fixing means.
Preferably the cam locking means is a cam lock.
In one embodiment the cam locking means has a channel defined therein. The channel has an opening of such dimensions for the location of the first end or engagement head of the engagement means therein in use.
Preferably at least one wall of the channel has a cam surface formed therein or associated with the same. Rotation of the cam locking means typically moves the engagement head of the engagement means along the cam surface of the channel, thereby pulling the engagement means, and whatever is engaged to the engagement means, along a substantially linear path of movement towards it in use.
Preferably the at least one wall of the channel defining the cam surface is angled and further preferably the at least one wall is arranged so that the width of the channel narrows or that the channel has a narrowing taper. Preferably the channel has a narrowing taper from the opening of the channel to an opposite end of the channel.
Preferably one end or part of the channel has an abutment surface with which the first end or engagement head of the engagement member abuts against once the first end or engagement head enters the opening of the channel. The abutment surface allows the engagement head to be in a required or correct position for moving along the cam surface of the channel on rotation of the cam locking means in use.
Gripping means can be provided on or associated with at least part of the channel of the cam locking means so as to prevent the first end or the engagement head from slipping when moving within the channel, on the channel surface or cam surface. The gripping means can include one or more dimples, ribs, teeth and/or the like.
Preferably the cam locking means is cylindrical or substantially cylindrical in form. Preferably the channel is defined in a circumferential edge of the cam locking means. Thus, in one example, the channel is defined around at least part of a side wall of the cam locking means.
Preferably the channel opening is defined at one end of the channel to allow an engagement head of the engagement means to be located therein in use.
In one embodiment the frame fixing means includes one or more further engagement means for engaging the body portion with the first shower frame member in use.
Preferably the one or more further engagement means includes one or more protrusion members, further dowel members, cam dowel members and/or the like.
Tn one embodiment the one or more further engagement means can be integrally formed with the body portion of the frame fixing means. Tn an alternative embodiment the one or more further engagement means are attached or detachably attached to the body portion of the frame fixing means prior to assembly.
Preferably the body portion of the frame fixing means has a front wall, rear wall, a top surface, base surface and first and second ends.
Preferably the body portion of the frame fixing means has a channel defined therein for the location of at least part of the engagement means, and preferably the engagement member, in use.
Preferably the engagement means channel is arranged to be parallel or substantially parallel to a top and"/or base surface of the body portion of the frame fixing means.
Preferably the engagement means channel has a first opening defined in a first end of the body portion of the frame fixing means. The first end or engagement head of the engagement means is typically inserted through the first opening in the first end of the body portion in use.
Preferably an aperture or recess is defined in a rear surface of the body portion of the frame fixing means and is of such dimensions for the location of the cam locking means in use. The rear surface is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the first end in which the engagement means channel is located.
Further preferably a second opening to the engagement means channel is defined in the body portion and opens into the rear surface cam lock aperture or recess. Thus, one or more of the walls of the body portion/frame fixing means defining the cam locking means aperture also defines a second opening to the engagement means channel.
The first and second openings of the engagement means channel in the frame fixing means are preferably opposite or substantially opposite each other. Further preferably the first and second openings are in line with each other.
The aperture or recess for the cam locking means is typically a blind ended aperture or is a recess with a base, and is of such dimensions that when a rear surface of the cam locking means is adjacent the base of the recess or blind end aperture, a front surface of the cam locking means is flush, substantially flush or slightly recessed with respect to the rear surface of the body portion of the frame fixing means through which it is located in use.
In use, when the cam locking means is placed in the rear surface aperture of the frame fixing means, the opening of the cam locking means channel is aligned or alignable with the second opening of the engagement means channel, thereby allowing the engagement head or first end of the engagement means to be inserted through the channel of the frame fixing means and into the channel of the cam locking means in use.
Preferably tool engagement means are defined in a front surface of the cam locking means to allow a tool to be engaged therewith in use. Engagement of a tool with the tool engagement means allows a user to rotate the cam locking means in use. In one example the tool engagement means is in the form of a recess or cross for the location of a screw driver head therein.
Preferably the first end of the body portion of the frame fixing means is arranged to be brought into abutting engagement with a longitudinal side wall of the first shower frame member. Thus, with the frame fixing means engaged with the first shower frame member in use, the body portion of the frame fixing means typically protrudes outwardly and preferably 'perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly to the longitudinal side wall of the first shower frame member.
Preferably the first opening of the engagement means channel of the frame fixing means is defined in the first end of the body portion of the frame fixing means. The further engagement means is typically located or locatable in the first end of the frame fixing means and is arranged to be a spaced distance apart from the first opening of the engagement means channel. In one example, the further engagement means protrudes outwardly from an upper part of the first end of the frame fixing means adjacent the top surface thereof. The first opening of the first engagement means channel is defined in a lower part of the first end of the frame fixing means adjacent the base surface thereof.
In one embodiment the frame fixing means can be integrally formed with or attached to the second shower frame member. In an alternative embodiment the frame fixing means is detachably attached to the second shower frame member.
The attachment means for allowing the frame fixing means to be attached or detachably attached to the second shower frame member can be any or any combination of friction fit, adhesive, solder, one or more screws, nuts and bolts, clips, inter-engaging members and/or the like.
In one embodiment the second shower frame member is substantially hollow or has a hollow section at at least an end thereof. The body portion of the frame fixing means can be inserted into and engageable in said hollow or hollow section in use.
Preferably at least part of the exterior shape of the frame fixing, means is substantially complementary to the interior shape of the hollow section of the second shower frame member such that the frame fixing means forms a good fit in said hollow section in use.
Preferably the exterior dimensions of the body portion of the frame fixing means are only slightly smaller than the interior dimensions of the hollow section of the second shower frame member such that the body portion forms a good firm fit when inserted into said hollow section in use.
Preferably the first end of the body portion of the frame fixing means can protrude outwardly from an end of the second shower frame member or can be flush or substantially flush with said second shower frame member end.
Thus, with the frame fixing means located in said second shower frame member hollow section, and the frame fixing means is engaged with the first shower frame member, the second shower frame member protrudes outwardly from a longitudinal side wall of the first shower frame member.
Preferably the second shower frame member and the first shower frame member are arranged to be substantially perpendicular to each other when in an engaged position with the frame fixing means.
In one embodiment the surface of the second shower frame member has an aperture defined therein. The position of the aperture is such that when the frame fixing means is inserted through the open end of the second shower frame member for engagement therein, the cam lock aperture of the frame fixing means can be moved into alignment with the aperture of the second shower frame member.
In one embodiment the longitudinal side wall of the first shower frame member has at least one aperture, and preferably at least two spaced apart apertures, for receiving the first engagement means and/or further engagement means therein in use.
Preferably the two or more apertures are arranged a spaced distance apart along the longitudinal axis of the first shower frame member.
In one embodiment the second shower frame member has a channel or rail defined on an outer surface thereof for the location of a movement mechanism or movement means associated with one or more shower enclosure panel members in use. For example, a shower panel may be movable between open and closed positioned on the channel or rail using one or more wheels, rollers, ball bearings and/or the like.
Preferably the channel or rail is defined in on a rear outer surface of the second shower frame member.
In one example, the channel is defined by two rail member protruding outwardly from the rear outer surface of the second shower frame member which are a spaced distance apart. Preferably the two rail members are parallel or substantially parallel to each other.
In one example, a shower enclosure panel member is locatable on at least an upper rail member in use. A movement mechanism associated with the shower enclosure panel member can be movably mounted with or between the upper and/or lower rail members in use.
The frame fixing means, first shower frame member and/or second shower frame member can be formed from any or any combination of plastic, metal and/or the like.
One or more panel members can be attached to, integral with or detachably attached to the first and/or second shower frame members in use. Preferably a panel member can be attached to or detachably attached to the first and second shower frame members in use. The panel member is typically engaged to the first and second shower frame members along one or more peripheral edges thereof, and preferably edges that are perpendicular to each other and/or to the panel member.
Preferably the side wall of the first frame member that is brought into engagement with an end wall of the second frame member, and the end wall of the second frame member, are flat, substantially flat, linear, complementary or substantially complementary in shape so as to provide a neat joint.
According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of using shower enclosure frame fixing means for fixing a first shower frame member to at least a second shower frame member in use, said frame fixing means including a body portion and engagement means for engaging the body portion to at least the first shower frame member in use, and wherein said method includes engaging an engagement member of said engagement means with said body portion and said first shower frame member, and locking the engagement member in place with the first shower frame member and/or the body portion using cam locking means.
In one aspect of the present invention the shower enclosure frame fixing means includes a first shower frame member and a second shower frame member.
According to further independent aspects of the present invention there is provided a shower enclosure including frame fixing means; a shower frame or frame member including frame fixing means; and a method of assembling a shower enclosure or using a shower frame or frame member.
An embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying figures, wherein: Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of shower enclosure frame fixing means according to an embodiment of the present invention; and Figures 2a and 2b show a front view and a rear view of the shower enclosure frame fixing means in figure 1 when fitted respectively.
Referring to the figures, there is illustrated a shower enclosure frame fixing assembly 2 for fixing a first side or upright frame member 4 to a second base or horizontal frame member 6 in use. It will be appreciated that the frame fixing assembly of the present invention could be used to fit together two frame members associated with any type or configuration of shower panel.
The fixing assembly 2 comprises frame fixing means 8 having of a body portion 10. The body portion 10 has a front surface 12, a rear surface 14, a top wall 16, a base wall 18 and end walls 20, 22.
The frame fixing means 8 can be integrally formed with the second base frame member 6 or it can be a separate component, as shown in figure 1. The cross sectional dimensions of the frame fixing means 8 arc such that it can be inserted through an open end of the second base frame member 6 and forms a tight frictional fit therewith in use.
An aperture 26 is defined in rear surface 14 of frame fixing means 8. An elongate channel 24 is defined through frame fixing means 8. A longitudinal axis of the channel 24 is typically parallel, or substantially parallel, to the base wall 18 of the fixing means and to the longitudinal axis of the base frame member 6 when fitted. The elongate channel has a first open end in end wall 22 and a second open end in aperture 26.
An engagement member in the form of a cam dowel 28 is provided for engaging the frame fixing means 8 to the first upright frame member 4. The cam dowel 28 has an engagement head 30 provided at a first end 32 thereof, and a threaded section 34 provided at a second end 36 thereof. An intermediate section 38 has larger cross sectional dimensions that first end 32 and second end 36.
Cam locking means 40 is provided for engagement with the cam dowel in use. The cam locking means 40 has a cylindrical body portion with a front surface 42, a rear surface 44 and side walls 46. A channel is defined in the side wall 46 around the circumference of the cylindrical body portion and provides a cam surface over which the engagement head 30 of the cam dowel can travel on rotation of the cam locking means 40 in use. An aperture is defined at one end of the channel to allow the engagement head 30 to be located in the channel in use.
Front surface 42 of the cam locking means 40 has tool engagement means in the form of a cross shaped recess 48 defined therein for the location of a tool, such as a screw driver head, in use. Location of a tool in the cross shaped recess 48 allows the cam locking means 40 to be rotated in use.
A further engagement member in the form of a dowel 50 is located in end wall 22 and protrudes outwardly thereof.
Side frame member 4 is typically an elongate member (only part of which is shown in the illustrations for clarity). It has a front surface 52, a rear surface 54 and side walls 56, 58. The side walls are provided parallel to the longitudinal axis of the frame member. It is typically a hollow member and has open ends 60, 62. Two spaced apart apertures 64, 66 are defined in side wall 58, that faces the base member and frame fixing means 8 in use, adjacent end 60. In particular, the apertures 64, 66 are spaced apart along the longitudinal axis of the side frame member 4. Opposite side wall 56 is typically fitted to a wall adjacent which the shower enclosure is to be fitted in use.
The side wall 58 of the first frame member 4 and the end wall 22 of the frame fixing means 8 are flat so as to allow a close fitting joint to be formed between the parts when they are brought together in engagement.
Base frame member 6 is typically an elongate member (only part of which is shown in the illustrations for clarity). It has a front surface 68, a rear surface 70, a top surface 72, base surface 74 and ends 76, 78. It is typically a hollow member and ends 76, 78 are typically openings to said hollow interior. The base surface 74 of base frame member 6 is typically located on a top surface of the shower tray in use. The base surface 74 is typically flat or linear in form. A channel 80 is defined on rear surface 70 for the location of wheels or sliding mechanism of a slidable panel member of the shower enclosure in use. An aperture 82 is defined in rear surface 70 of the base frame member 6.
On assembly, fixing frame means 8 is inserted through open end 78 of base frame member 6, such that aperture 82 on base frame member 6 is substantially aligned with aperture 26 on fixing frame means 8. The fixing frame means 8 remains in place within the base frame member 6 via friction fit due to the complementary exterior shape of the fixing frame means 8 with the interior shape of the hollow base frame member 6.
The rear surface 44 of cam lock 40 in inserted through the aligned apertures 82, 26 such that the cam lock sits within the walls defining the apertures. Front surface 42 of the cam lock 40 faces outwardly from rear surface 70 of the base frame member 6. The cam lock is rotated such that the channel aperture of the cam lock faces the aperture 24 in the fixing frame means channel.
The threaded section 34 of cam dowel 28 is rotatable inserted through the lower aperture 64 of side frame member 4. The engaged frame fixing means 8 and base frame member 6 are moved towards the side wall 58 of the side frame member 4 such that the engagement head 30 of the cam dowel 28 is located through the aperture in the side wall 22 of the fixing frame means 8. The engagement head 30 passes through the channel aperture of the cam lock and sits in the cam channel. At the same time, the engagement member 50 provided on side wall 22 of the fixing frame means 8 locates in the upper aperture 66 in the side frame member 4. The intermediate section 38 of the cam dowel secures the engagement of the cam dowel in the frame fixing means 8.
A tool is placed in the cross shaped recess 48 of the cam lock and is used to rotate the cam lock. Rotation of the cam lock moves the engagement head 30 along the cam surface of the cam lock, thereby drawing side frame member 4 towards base frame member 6 and securing engagement of the engagement members 28, 50 with the side frame member 4.
The size of the apertures 26, 82 of the frame fixing means 8 and the base frame member 6 are significantly larger than the size of the apertures required for retaining screw fixings, thereby reducing the requirement for engineering precision of the apertures to allow alignment of the same in use. In any case, in one example, the frame fixing means 8 could be integrally formed with the base frame member 6 and so alignment of the parts would not be required.
The fitter only has to gain access to the rear surface 70 of the base frame member 6 in order to actuate the cam lock. Accessibility to the rear surface 70 is greater and less fiddly compared to accessing the lower side wall 58 of the side frame member 4, thereby making the fitting procedure significantly easier than with prior art methods.

Claims (29)

  1. Claims 1. Shower enclosure frame fixing means for fixing a first shower frame member to at least a second shower frame member in use, said frame fixing means including a body portion and engagement means for engaging the body portion to at least the first shower frame member in use, and wherein said engagement means includes an engagement member engageable with said body portion and said first shower frame member in use, and cam locking means for locking the engagement member in place with the first shower frame member and the body portion in use.
  2. 2. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim 1 wherein the frame fixing means is integrally formed with, attachable to or detachably attachable to the second shower frame member.
  3. 3. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim 1 wherein the engagement member has a first end engageable with the body portion and a second end engageable with the first shower frame member.
  4. 4. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim 3 wherein the first end of the engagement member has an engagement head and the second end of the engagement member has a threaded section.
  5. 5. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim 3 wherein an intermediate section of the engagement member between the first and second ends has a greater diameter or cross sectional dimensions compared to the first and/or second ends.
  6. 6. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim 1 wherein the engagement member is in the form of a cam dowel.
  7. 7. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim 1 wherein the cam locking means has one or more cam surfaces defined therein.
  8. 8. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim 1 wherein the cam locking means are arranged such that rotation of the cam locking means causes linear or substantially linear movement of the engagement member relative thereto in use.
  9. 9. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim 7 wherein the cam locking means has a channel defined therein and at least one wall of the channel has a cam surface formed therein or associated with the same.
  10. 1 Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim 9 wherein the channel has an opening of such dimensions for receiving a first end or engagement head of the engagement member in use.
  11. 11. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim 9 wherein one end or part of the channel has an abutment surface with which the first end or engagement head of the engagement member abuts against once a first end or engagement head enters an opening of the channel.
  12. 12. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim 9 wherein gripping means are provided on or associated with at least part of the channel of the cam locking means.
  13. 13. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim 1 wherein the cam locking means is cylindrical or substantially cylindrical in form.
  14. 14. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim 1 wherein the frame fixing means includes one or more further engagement means for engaging the body portion with the first shower frame member in use.
  15. 15. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim 14 wherein the further engagement means includes one or more protrusion members, further dowel members or cam dowel members.
  16. 16. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim 14 wherein the further engagement means are integrally formed with attachable or detachably attachable to the body portion.
  17. 17. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim 1 wherein the body portion has a channel defined therein for the location of at least part of the engagement means in use.
  18. 18. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim 17 wherein the engagement means channel is arranged to be parallel to or substantially parallel to a top or base surface of the body portion and an opening of the channel is defined in an end of the body portion.
  19. 19. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim 18 wherein an aperture or recess is defined in a rear surface of the body portion for the location of the cam locking means in use.
  20. 20. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to any preceding claim or claims wherein a second opening of the engagement means channel defined in the body portion opens into the rear surface aperture or recess.
  21. 21. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim 19 wherein the aperture or recess of the body portion for the location of the cam locking means is a blind ended aperture and is of such dimensions that when a rear surface of the cam locking means is adjacent the blind end of the aperture, a front surface of the cam locking means is flush, substantially flush or slightly recessed with respect to the rear surface of the body portion.
  22. 22. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim 1 wherein tool engagement means are defined in a front surface of the cam locking means to allow a tool to be engaged therein in use.
  23. 23. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim 1 wherein a first end of the body portion is arranged to be brought into abutting engagement with a longitudinal side wall of the first shower frame member, such that when engaged, the body portion protrudes outwardly and perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal side wall of the first shower frame member.
  24. 24. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim 2 wherein the attachment means for allowing the frame fixing means to be attached to detachably attached to the second shower frame member is any or any combination of friction fit, adhesive, solder, one or more screws, nuts and bolts, clips or inter-engaging members.
  25. 25. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim 2 wherein the second shower frame member is substantially hollow or has a hollow section and the body portion of the frame fixing means is shaped and dimensioned to be insertable into and engageable in said hollow or hollow section in use.
  26. 26. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim wherein a surface of the second shower frame member has an aperture defined therein, and the position of the aperture is such that when the frame fixing means is inserted through an open end of the second shower frame member, the cam lock aperture of the frame fixint,b means can be moved into alignment with the aperture of the second shower frame member.
  27. 27. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to any preceding claim or claims wherein a longitudinal side wall of the first shower frame member has at least one aperture for receiving the first engagement means and/or further engagement means therein in use.
  28. 28. Shower enclosure frame fixing means according to claim 2 wherein the second shower frame member has a channel or rail defined on an outer surface thereof for the location of a movement mechanism or movement means associated with one or more shower enclosure panel members in use.
  29. 29. A method of using shower enclosure frame fixing means for fixing a first shower frame member to at least a second shower frame member in use, said frame fixing means including a body portion and engagement means for engaging the body portion to at least the first shower frame member in use, and wherein said method includes engaging an engagement member of said engagement means with said body portion and said first shower frame member, and locking the engagement member in place with the first shower frame member and/or the body portion using cam locking means.
GB1518498.9A 2014-12-16 2015-10-20 Shower enclosure frame fixing means and method of use thereof Active GB2533463B (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
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Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3682777A1 (en) * 2019-01-18 2020-07-22 Coram UK Holding Limited Shower enclosures
GB2580730A (en) * 2019-01-22 2020-07-29 Merlyn Industries Ltd A connecting device and a frame assembly comprising the connecting device

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0356278A2 (en) * 1988-07-27 1990-02-28 Alcan France Connecting part for two steel sections
WO2005040534A1 (en) * 2003-10-23 2005-05-06 Mirrorstone Oy Wheel and angle joint device for a sliding door
GB2440605A (en) * 2006-04-08 2008-02-06 Daryl Ind Ltd Hidden adjustable fixing system for screen
NZ580566A (en) * 2010-09-09 2011-12-22 Open Building Solutions Ltd Cam lock assembly for a joining frame members such as window mullions and transoms with rotatable cam lock
EP2803307A1 (en) * 2013-05-13 2014-11-19 Ideal Sanitary Ware Co., Ltd Door assembly

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE202004000473U1 (en) * 2004-01-14 2004-04-01 Häfele GmbH & Co. KG Connection fitting for hollow panels

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0356278A2 (en) * 1988-07-27 1990-02-28 Alcan France Connecting part for two steel sections
WO2005040534A1 (en) * 2003-10-23 2005-05-06 Mirrorstone Oy Wheel and angle joint device for a sliding door
GB2440605A (en) * 2006-04-08 2008-02-06 Daryl Ind Ltd Hidden adjustable fixing system for screen
NZ580566A (en) * 2010-09-09 2011-12-22 Open Building Solutions Ltd Cam lock assembly for a joining frame members such as window mullions and transoms with rotatable cam lock
EP2803307A1 (en) * 2013-05-13 2014-11-19 Ideal Sanitary Ware Co., Ltd Door assembly

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3682777A1 (en) * 2019-01-18 2020-07-22 Coram UK Holding Limited Shower enclosures
GB2580730A (en) * 2019-01-22 2020-07-29 Merlyn Industries Ltd A connecting device and a frame assembly comprising the connecting device
GB2580730B (en) * 2019-01-22 2023-02-01 Merlyn Industries Ltd A connecting device and a frame assembly comprising the connecting device

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
GB201518498D0 (en) 2015-12-02
GB2533463B (en) 2019-06-19

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