GB2544522A

GB2544522A - Window bead

Info

Publication number: GB2544522A
Application number: GB1520433.2A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Newey Ian; Crossley Simon; Mccabe Patrick; Luther Diane; Guthrie Forbes Michael
Original assignee: QUANTUM PROFILE SYSTEMS Ltd
Current assignee: QUANTUM PROFILE SYSTEMS Ltd
Priority date: 2015-11-19
Filing date: 2015-11-19
Publication date: 2017-05-24
Anticipated expiration: 2035-11-19
Also published as: GB201520433D0; GB2544522B

Abstract

The window bead assembly 100 has a bead 300 and a clip 200 for receiving the bead, in which the bead and clip are couplable by pressing the bead into the clip in an insertion direction, and wherein the bead and clip are uncouplable by urging the bead in a direction not aligned with the insertion direction. The bead and clip may be disconnected by forcing the bead in one direction not aligned with the insertion direction, but may resist disengagement when the bead is urged in another direction not aligned with the insertion direction. Detachment may be impeded when the bead is rotated in one direction, and permitted when the bead is rotated in an opposite direction. The bead and clip may have complementary male 312a,314a,320b and female 212a-b,214a-b,220a-b projections. Also disclosed is a window comprising the window bead, and a method of use.

Description

WINDOW BEAD

FIELD

[01] The present invention relates to window beads, and to related methods of assembly and disassembly of window beads.

BACKGROUND

[02] A sash window typically comprises glazed sashes arranged to slide in a frame. Sufficient clearance within the frame is required to allow for sliding.

[03] However, the clearance required for sliding may result in heat loss and/or draughts. To minimize these effects, staff beads and parting beads are used to provide a seal between components, while still allowing sliding. Staff beads are fitted to the frame to retain the inner sash in position, whereas parting beads are fitted to the frame to allow space between sashes, allowing free movement. The window beads can include resilient seals, e.g. brushes, or natural/synthetic rubber for sliding contact and/or draft prevention. The window beads also serve to retain the sash in the frame, preventing removal of the sash from the frame.

[04] Maintenance of the sash window may be required and hence window beads are typically removable for maintenance, so as to allow treatment of the sash and window frame with paint or varnish or replacement of components such as weights, pulleys or balances. Removal of the window beads also avoids the resilient seals from being coated during treatment. To facilitate maintenance, a window bead may be provided as an assembly including a clip and a bead that may be inserted into and removed from the clip. The clip is retained in a recess in the frame while the bead is removable. So as to maintain sealing of the bead against the sash, movement of the bead in the clip should be avoided. Hence, the bead should be securely coupled in the clip, while allowing for insertion and removal of the bead when required.

[05] Damage to the sash window may result if the bead is forcibly removed, for example by prying the bead out of the clip with a screwdriver. Alternatively, specialist tools may be required to remove the bead from the clip. In some window beads, a coextruded bead may include a resilient and hence less secure coupling to facilitate insertion and removal of the bead, though manufacturing cost and/or complexity may be further increased. With the bead removed for maintenance, debris or paint for example may inadvertently enter the clip, obstructing reinsertion of the bead. Furthermore, removable beads present a security risk since unauthorised persons may remove the parting beads and hence the sash, so as to gain unauthorised entry through the frame.

[06] Example embodiments of the present invention aim to address at least one of the issues identified above, or related issues.

SUMMARY

[07] According to the present invention there is provided an apparatus as set forth in the appended claims. Other features of the invention will be apparent from the dependent claims, and the description which follows.

[08] According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a window bead assembly comprising: a bead and a clip arranged to receive the bead; wherein the bead and the clip are couplable by pressing the bead into the clip in an insertion direction; and wherein the bead and the clip are uncouplable by urging the bead in a direction that is not aligned with the insertion direction.

[09] In one example embodiment, the bead and the clip are arranged to be coupled by an interference fit.

[10] In one example embodiment, the bead comprises a male coupling member and the clip comprises a female coupling member. In one example embodiment, the bead comprises a male coupling member and the clip comprises a corresponding female coupling member, arranged to receive the male member. In this way, the bead and the clip may be coupled i.e. the bead may be coupled in the clip.

[11] In one example embodiment, the bead comprises a plurality of male coupling members and the clip comprises a plurality of female members. In one example embodiment, the bead comprises a plurality of male coupling members and the clip comprises a plurality of corresponding female members.

[12] In one example embodiment, the bead comprises a first male coupling member arranged on one side of the bead and a second male coupling member arranged on another, for example opposite, side of the bead. In one example embodiment, the clip comprises a first female coupling member arranged on one side of the clip and a second female coupling member arranged on another, for example opposite, side of the clip.

[13] In one example embodiment, the first male coupling member arranged on one side of the bead is offset (e.g. staggered, non-coplanar) from the second male coupling member arranged on the other, for example opposite, side of the bead. The male coupling members arranged on opposite sides of the bead are not aligned with one another. In one example embodiment, the first female coupling member arranged on one side of the clip is offset (e.g. staggered) from the second female coupling member arranged on the other, for example opposite, side of the clip. The female coupling members arranged on opposite sides of the clip are not aligned with one another.

[14] In one example embodiment, the bead comprises a first relatively larger male coupling member arranged on a side of the bead and a second relatively smaller male coupling member arranged on an opposite side of the bead. In one example embodiment, the clip comprises a first relatively larger female coupling member arranged on a side of the clip and a second relatively smaller female coupling member arranged on an opposite side of the clip.

[15] In one example embodiment, the bead comprises a first relatively larger male coupling member arranged on one side of the bead and a plurality of relatively smaller male coupling members arranged on an opposite side of the bead. In one example embodiment, the clip comprises a first relatively larger female coupling member arranged on one side of the clip and a plurality of relatively smaller female coupling members arranged on an opposite side of the clip.

[16] In one example embodiment, the bead comprises a first relatively larger male coupling member arranged on one side of the bead and two relatively smaller male coupling members arranged on an opposite side of the bead. In one example embodiment, the clip comprises a first relatively larger female coupling member arranged on one side of the clip and two relatively smaller female coupling members arranged on an opposite side of the clip.

[17] In one example embodiment, the first relatively larger male coupling member arranged on one side of the bead is offset (e.g. staggered) from the two relatively smaller male coupling member arranged on the opposite side of the bead. In one example embodiment, the first relatively larger female coupling member arranged on one side of the clip is offset (e.g. staggered) from the two relatively smaller female coupling members arranged on the opposite side of the clip.

[18] In one example embodiment, the bead comprises a first relatively larger male coupling member arranged on one side of the bead and a plurality of relatively smaller male coupling members arranged on an opposite side of the bead. In one example embodiment, the clip comprises a first relatively larger female coupling member and a plurality of relatively smaller female coupling members arranged on one side of the clip and a second relatively larger female coupling member and a plurality of relatively smaller female coupling members arranged on an opposite side of the clip.

[19] In one example embodiment, the bead comprises a first relatively larger male coupling member arranged on one side of the bead and two relatively smaller male coupling members arranged on an opposed side of the bead. In one example embodiment, the clip comprises a first relatively larger female coupling member and two relatively smaller female coupling members arranged on one side of the clip and a second relatively larger female coupling member and two relatively smaller female coupling members arranged on an opposite side of the clip.

[20] In one example embodiment, the relatively smaller female coupling members arranged on one side of the clip are aligned with the relatively smaller female coupling members arranged on the opposite side of the clip. In one example embodiment, the relatively larger female coupling member arranged on one side of the clip is aligned with the relatively larger female coupling member arranged on the opposite side of the clip.

[21] In one example embodiment, the relatively larger male coupling member comprises a projection, for example a convex protuberance. In one example embodiment, the relatively larger male coupling member comprises a symmetric projection. In one example embodiment, the relatively larger male coupling member comprises a convex curved projection.

[22] In one example embodiment, the relatively larger female coupling member comprises a cavity. In one example embodiment, the relatively larger female coupling member comprises a symmetric cavity. In one example embodiment, the relatively larger female coupling member comprises a symmetric curved cavity.

[23] In one example embodiment, a radius of curvature of the relatively larger female coupling member is larger than a radius of curvature of the relatively larger male coupling member. In one example embodiment, a radius of curvature of the relatively larger female coupling member is smaller than a radius of curvature of the relatively larger male coupling member. In one example embodiment, a radius of curvature of the relatively larger female coupling member is the same as a radius of curvature of the relatively larger male coupling member.

[24] In one example embodiment, the relatively smaller male coupling member comprises a projection, for example a convex protuberance. In one example embodiment, the relatively smaller male coupling member comprises an asymmetric convex projection. In one example embodiment, the relatively smaller male coupling member comprises an asymmetric convex triangular projection.

[25] In one example embodiment, the relatively smaller female coupling member comprises a cavity. In one example embodiment, the relatively smaller female coupling member comprises an asymmetric cavity. In one example embodiment, the relatively smaller female coupling member comprises an asymmetric concave triangular cavity.

[26] In one example embodiment, the male coupling member extends along the bead i.e. the relatively larger and/or relatively smaller male coupling member extends along the bead, thereby forming a ridge or a barb or a wing. In one example embodiment, the female coupling member extends along the clip i.e. the relatively larger and/or relatively smaller female coupling member extends along the clip, thereby forming a groove or furrow or channel.

[27] In one example embodiment, the bead comprises a male part. In one example embodiment, the clip comprises a female part. In one example embodiment, the female part is arranged to receive the male part.

[28] In one example embodiment, the male part comprises the male coupling member. In one example embodiment, the male part comprises the plurality of male coupling members.

[29] In one example embodiment, the female part comprises the female coupling member. In one example embodiment, the female part comprises the plurality of female coupling members.

[30] In one example embodiment, a maximum width of the male part is greater than a minimum width of the female part. In one example embodiment, a maximum width of the male part is less than a minimum width of the female part. In one example embodiment, a maximum width of the male part is the same as a minimum width of the female part.

[31] In one example embodiment, a minimum width of the male part is less than a minimum width of the female part. In one example embodiment, a maximum length of the male part is less than a maximum length of the female part.

[32] In one example embodiment, the bead and the clip are arranged to resist uncoupling of the bead from the clip by a force urging the bead in a direction opposed to the insertion direction. In this way, the bead and the clip permit coupling of the bead and the clip by pressing the bead into the clip in the insertion direction and resist removal of the bead from the clip by a force on or a movement of the bead in a direction opposed to the insertion direction. In this way, removal of the bead from the clip by unauthorised users is prevented due to the removable direction being obstructed by a closed section of a sash.

[33] In one example embodiment, the bead and the clip are arranged to resist uncoupling of the bead from the clip by a force urging the bead in one direction that is not aligned to the insertion direction. In this document the term "transverse to the insertion direction", or similar related terms are used to describe a direction that is not aligned with the insertion direction, including a direction that is at right angles to the insertion direction, and also other directions that have a component that is non-parallel to the insertion direction.

[34] In one example embodiment, the bead and the clip are arranged to permit uncoupling of the bead from the clip by a force urging the bead in another direction transverse to the insertion direction. In this way, tool-free removal of the bead from the clip may be achieved. In this way, damage to the window bead assembly and/or a window is prevented.

[35] In one example embodiment, the bead and the clip are arranged to resist uncoupling of the bead from the clip by a force urging the bead in a direction transverse to the insertion direction and the bead and the clip are arranged to permit uncoupling of the bead from the clip by a force urging the bead in an opposed direction transverse to the insertion direction. In this way, removal of the bead from the clip may only be performed by movement of the bead in a specific direction, for example, towards a sash. In this way, removal of the bead from the clip may only be performed by movement of the bead towards an open sash i.e. by an authorised user. In this way, the window bead assembly overcomes the security risk associated with conventional removable parting bead, as described previously.

[36] In one example embodiment the bead and the clip are arranged to resist uncoupling of the bead from the clip by a force urging the bead to rotate in one direction and the bead and the clip are arranged to permit uncoupling of the bead from the clip by a force urging the bead to rotate in an opposite direction.

[37] In one example embodiment, the bead and the clip are arrangeable in an inserted configuration by urging the bead in the insertion direction. In one example embodiment, the bead and the clip are subsequently arrangeable in a first partially removed configuration by a urging the bead in a direction transverse to the insertion direction. In one example embodiment, the bead and the clip are subsequently arrangeable in a fully removed configuration by a urging the bead in a direction opposed to the insertion direction.

[38] In one example embodiment, the bead and the clip are arrangeable in an inserted configuration by urging the bead in the insertion direction. In one example embodiment, the bead and the clip are subsequently arrangeable in a first partially removed configuration by a urging the bead in a direction transverse to the insertion direction. In one example embodiment, the bead and the clip are subsequently arrangeable in a second partially removed configuration by a urging the bead in a direction opposed to the direction transverse to the insertion direction. In one example embodiment, the bead and the clip are subsequently arrangeable in a fully removed configuration by a urging the bead in a direction opposed to the insertion direction.

[39] In one example embodiment, the bead and clip are arranged such that urging the bead in the direction transverse to the insertion direction tends to rotate the bead about the clip, towards the first partially removed configuration. In one example embodiment, the bead comprises a shoulder and urging the bead in the direction transverse to the insertion direction tends to rotate the shoulder about the clip. In one example embodiment, the bead comprises a shoulder and the clip comprises an edge, wherein urging the bead in the direction transverse to the insertion direction tends to rotate the shoulder about the edge. In one example embodiment, the clip comprises a chamfer and urging the bead in the direction transverse to the insertion direction tends to rotate the bead about the chamfer. In one example embodiment, the clip comprises a convex portion and urging the bead in the direction transverse to the insertion direction tends to rotate the bead about the convex portion.

[40] In one example embodiment, the bead comprises a relatively larger male coupling member and the clip comprises a relatively larger female coupling member arranged to couple with the relatively larger male coupling member, said coupling members arranged such that urging the bead in the direction transverse to the insertion direction tends to rotate the bead about an interface of the relatively larger male coupling member and the relatively larger female coupling member.

[41] In one example embodiment, the bead comprises a male part, having a relatively longer side and a relatively shorter side, and the clip comprises a female part arranged to receive the male part, wherein rotation of the bead about the clip is permitted by the relatively shorter side of the male part providing clearance from a part of the clip. In one example embodiment, rotation of the bead about the clip in an opposite sense is resisted by the relatively longer side of the male part engaging with (e.g. pressing against) a part of the clip. In one example embodiment, the clip comprises a wall portion arranged to resist rotation by interfering with the male part e.g. the relatively longer side of the male part.

[42] In one example embodiment, the bead comprises a plurality of relatively smaller male coupling members and the clip comprises a plurality of relatively smaller female coupling members arranged to receive the plurality of relatively smaller male coupling members, arranged such that relative rotation of the bead and clip uncouples the plurality of relatively smaller male members from the plurality of relatively smaller female members, for example as the bead starts to move outwardly from the clip. In one example embodiment, such rotation tends to engage a relatively smaller male coupling member of the plurality of relatively smaller male coupling members with the relatively larger female coupling member. In one example embodiment, such rotation tends to engage a relatively smaller male coupling member of the plurality of relatively smaller male coupling members with an end wall portion of the clip, such as the previously-described convex chamfer.

[43] In one example embodiment, the bead comprises a relatively smaller male coupling member and a relatively larger male coupling member and the clip comprises a relatively smaller female coupling member and two relatively larger female coupling members, and the bead and the clip are arrangeable in an inserted configuration in which the relatively smaller male coupling member is coupled with the relatively smaller female coupling member and the relatively larger male coupling member is coupled with a first of the relatively larger female coupling members, upon urging the bead into the clip in the insertion direction. In one example embodiment, the bead and the clip are arrangeable in a partially removed configuration in which the relatively larger male coupling member is coupled with the first of the relatively larger female coupling members and the relatively smaller male coupling member is engaged with a second of the relatively larger female coupling members, upon urging the bead in a direction transverse to the insertion direction.

[44] In one example embodiment, the bead comprises two relatively smaller male coupling member and a relatively larger male coupling member, and the clip comprises two relatively smaller female coupling member and a relatively larger female coupling member, wherein the bead and the clip are arrangeable in an inserted configuration in which the relatively smaller male coupling member couples with the relatively smaller female coupling member and the relatively larger male coupling member couples with the relatively larger female coupling member. In one example embodiment, the bead and the clip are arrangeable in a partially removed configuration in which the relatively smaller male coupling member engages with the relatively larger female coupling member, upon urging the bead in a direction transverse to the insertion direction.

[45] In one example embodiment the bead comprises a male coupling member, one side of which comprises a first coupling protrusion and the other side of which comprises second coupling protrusions, and a the clip comprises a channel with groves on inner surfaces thereof to receive the protrusions of the male coupling member when the bead and clip are coupled. In one example embodiment the first and second coupling protrusions are asymmetrically arranged on the sides of the male coupling member. In one example embodiment the first and second coupling protrusions are offset from one another longitudinally, along the length of the male coupling member. In one example embodiment the first and second coupling protrusions are of different sizes to each other. In one example embodiment the clip comprises a U-shaped channel.

[46] In one example embodiment, the identified coupling members comprise the only members involved in coupling/uncoupling the bead and the clip.

[47] In one example embodiment, the bead consists of a polymer i.e. only one polymer. In one example embodiment, the bead is manufactured by mono-extrusion. In one example embodiment, the clip consists of a polymer i.e. only one polymer. In one example embodiment, the clip is manufactured by mono-extrusion.

[48] In one example embodiment, a clearance is provided between the bead and the clip. In this way, unintentional interference between the bead and the clip is reduced, since debris such as paint, varnish, dust, etc. in the clip tends to be accommodated in the clearance.

[49] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a window comprising a window bead assembly, the window bead assembly comprising: a bead and a clip arranged to receive the bead; wherein the bead and the clip are couplable by pressing the bead into the clip in an insertion direction; and wherein the bead and the clip are uncouplable by urging the bead in a direction that is not aligned with the insertion direction.

[50] According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of using a window bead assembly comprising: a bead and a clip arranged to receive the bead, wherein the bead and the clip are couplable by pressing the bead into the clip in an insertion direction; wherein the method comprises: urging the bead in a direction that is not aligned with the insertion direction to thereby uncouple the bead and the clip.

[51] In one example embodiment, the method comprises urging the bead to move from a fully inserted configuration to a first partially removed configuration. In one example embodiment, the method comprises urging the bead to move from a fully inserted configuration to a first partially removed configuration by rotating relative to the clip.

[52] In one example embodiment, urging the bead to move tends to rotate the bead about the clip. In one example embodiment, the clip comprises an edge and urging the bead to move tends to rotate the bead about the edge. In one example embodiment, the clip comprises a chamfer and urging the bead to move tends to rotate the bead about the chamfer. In one example embodiment, the clip comprises a convex portion and urging the bead to move tends to rotate the bead about the convex chamfer.

[53] In one example embodiment, the bead comprises a relatively larger male coupling member and the clip comprises a relatively larger female coupling member arranged to couple with the relatively larger male member, and in the uncoupling the bead rotates about an interface of the relatively larger male coupling member and the relatively larger female coupling member. In one example embodiment, the bead comprises a male part, having a relatively longer side and a relatively shorter side, and the clip comprises a female part arranged to receive the male part, wherein rotation of the bead about the clip is permitted by the relatively shorter side of the male part clearing part of the clip. In one example embodiment, rotation in the opposite sense is resisted by the relatively longer side of the male part engaging with (e.g. pressing against) a part of the clip.

[54] In one example embodiment, the bead comprises a plurality of relatively smaller male coupling members and the clip comprises a plurality of relatively smaller female coupling members arranged to receive the plurality of relatively smaller male coupling members, wherein rotation tends to uncouple the plurality of relatively smaller male coupling members from the plurality of relatively smaller female coupling members. In one example embodiment such rotation tends to engage a relatively smaller male coupling member of the plurality of relatively smaller male coupling members with the relatively larger female coupling member. In one example embodiment, such rotation tends to engage a relatively smaller male coupling member of the plurality of relatively smaller male coupling members with an end wall portion of the clip, such as the previously-described convex chamfer.

[55] In one example embodiment, the method comprises urging the bead in an opposed direction to thereby move the bead from the first partially removed configuration to a second partially removed configuration.

[56] In one example embodiment, urging the bead in the opposed direction tends to rotate the bead about the clip. In one example embodiment, the clip comprises another edge and urging the bead in the opposed direction tends to rotate the bead about the other edge. In one example embodiment, the clip comprises another chamfer and urging the bead in the opposed direction tends to rotate the bead about the other chamfer. In one example embodiment, the clip comprises another convex chamfer and urging the bead in the opposed direction tends to rotate the bead about the other convex chamfer.

[57] In one example embodiment, such rotation tends to move a relatively smaller male member of the plurality of relatively smaller male coupling members beyond an open end of the clip and thus out of the clip. In one example embodiment, such rotation tends to move a relatively smaller male member of the plurality of relatively smaller male coupling members within the relatively larger female member towards the open end of the clip. In one example embodiment, such rotation tends to move the relatively larger male member such that the relatively larger male member is displaced from the relatively larger female member and instead pressed against the convex chamfer.

[58] In one example embodiment, the method comprises pressing the bead into the clip in the insertion direction whereby the bead and the clip are coupled.

[59] In one example embodiment, the method comprises coupling and/or uncoupling the window bead assembly of the first aspect, as described above.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[60] For a better understanding of the invention, and to show how embodiments of the same may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying diagrammatic drawings in which: [61] Figure 1 shows a cross-section of a window bead assembly according to an example embodiment, in which a bead and a clip are spaced apart; [62] Figures 2A - 2G show insertion and removal of the bead into and from the bead according to the window bead assembly of Figure 1; and [63] Figure 3 shows a cross-section of a window bead assembly according to another example embodiment, in which a bead and a clip are spaced apart.

DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

[64] Figure 1 shows a cross-section of the components of a window bead assembly 100 according to an example embodiment, in which a parting bead 300 may be pressed into a clip 200 and subsequently removed by a release movement in a different direction.

[65] The clip 200 comprises a channel profile of a symmetric WPC extrusion, having opposed, parallel side walls 204a, 204b arranged perpendicularly to a base 204c, having an external width W. Between the side walls 204a, 204b and opposite the base 204c, a space having an internal width of w’, is provided to receive the bead 300. Required lengths of the clip 200 may be cut from the extrusion.

[66] Outer faces 205a, 205b of the side walls 204a, 204b respectively are flat and mutually parallel. Edges formed between the outer faces 205a, 205b of the side walls 204a, 204b and the outer face 205c of the base 204c are square. In this way, the clip 200 may be received in a parallel-sided groove in a frame and the base 204c may be coupled to a bottom of the groove, for example with an adhesive.

[67] An inner face 207c of the base 204c is flat and generally parallel to the outer face 205c of the base 204c. Inner faces 207a, 207b of the side walls 204a, 204b respectively lie opposite one another and further comprise female coupling members, as described below. Flat parts of the inner faces 207a, 207b are mutually parallel and orthogonal to the inner face 207c of the base 204c. Internal comers 230a, 230b are formed between the inner faces 207a, 207b and the inner face 207c of the base 204c.

[68] The inner face 207a of the side wall 204a comprises a female coupling member 220a. The female coupling member 220a comprises a first part of a first coupling assembly, and is arranged relatively closer to an open end of the clip 200 than to the inner face 207c of the base 204c. The inner face 207a of the side wall 204a further comprises two relatively smaller female coupling members 212a, 214a that form a first part of a second coupling assembly . The female coupling member 212a is arranged to the side of the female coupling member 220a, relatively closer to the inner face 207c of the base 204c than to the open end of the clip 200. The female coupling member 214a is arranged to the other side of the female coupling member 220a, relatively closer the open end of the clip 200 than to the inner face 207c of the base 204c.

[69] The female coupling member 220a comprises a channel running along the length of the inner face 207a, and in cross section is shaped as a curved recess of depth D and radius R’. In the example embodiment shown the female coupling member 220a is of symmetrical form when considered in cross section, having dimensions of depth D and radius R'.

[70] The female coupling member 212a comprises an asymmetrical concave channel when considered in cross section, extending along the clip 200. The female coupling member 212a shown in the example embodiment of Figure 1 comprises an offset V-shaped groove, with apex relatively closer to the open end of the clip 200 than to a centreline of the channel, and having a depth d. Thus, the female coupling member 212a in cross-section comprises a generally triangular shape, having a first, relatively shorter, side 216a disposed towards and relatively more parallel to the open end of the clip 200 and a second, relatively longer, side 218a disposed away from and relatively less parallel to the open end of the clip 200. The apex of the female coupling member 212a are radiused, to reduce stress concentrations and/or to facilitate insertion/and or removal as described in more detail below. The female coupling member 214a is similar to the female coupling member 212a.

[71] Similar to the inner face 207a of the side wall 204a, inner face 207b of the side wall 204b comprises a relatively larger female coupling member 220b, arranged opposite the female coupling member 220a of the inner face 207a of the side wall 204a. The inner face 207b of the side wall 204b further comprises two relatively smaller female coupling members 212b, 214b, arranged opposite female coupling members 212a, 214a respectively of the inner face 207a of the side wall 204a.

[72] Ends 209a, 209b of the side walls 204a, 204b respectively at the open end of the clip 200 are arranged perpendicularly to the outer faces 205a, 205b of the side walls 204a, 204b. Edges formed between the ends 209a, 209b of the side walls 204a, 204b and the inner faces 207a, 207b respectively of the side walls 204a, 204b comprise convex chamfers 206a, 206b.

[73] The inner faces 207a, 207b of the side walls 204a, 204b respectively, together with the inner face 207c of the base 204c and the ends 209a2,09b of the side walls 204a, 204b respectively, provide a female part 240 arranged to receive the bead 300.

[74] Further, the clip 200 is symmetric about a mid-plane 299 along the extrusion, perpendicular to the base 204c of the clip 200 and thus the female part 240 is similarly symmetric.

[75] The bead 300 comprises an asymmetric (about a mid-plane 399) WPC extrusion of a generally rectangular profile, having an outer part 350 arranged to receive a sealing member (not shown), and further having a male part 340, that is in use received by the female part 240 of the clip 200.

[76] The outer part 350 of the bead 300, having a width W equal to an external width W of the clip 200, has parallel faces 355a, 355b and a rounded end 355d that is provided between the faces 355a, 355b. The other end of the faces 355a, 355b comprise shoulders 309a, 309b. One of the faces 355a is flat while the other of the faces 355b comprises a T-slot 360 to receive a sealing member (not shown), such as a brush.

[77] The male part 340 of the bead 300 extends away from the outer part 350, between the shoulders 309a, 309b of the outer part 350. The male part 340 has generally parallel faces 305a, 305b spaced a width w apart, and further has an asymmetric end 305c. The relatively shorter face 305a of length I is parallel to the face 355a of the outer part 350, and extends away from the face 355a of the outer part at the shoulder 309a. The relatively longer face 305b of length L is parallel to the face 355b of the outer part 350, and extends away from the face 355b of the outer part 350 at the shoulder 309b. The end 305c has a flat region 334b, arranged perpendicularly to the relatively longer face 305b thereby forming an external corner 330b with the relatively longer face 305b, and a convex region 334a, that chamfers from the flat region 334b to the relatively shorter face 305a.

[78] The relatively longer face 305b of the male part 340 comprises a relatively larger male coupling member, i.e. a second part of the first coupling assembly 320b, arranged relatively closer to the shoulder 309b of the bead 300 than to the flat region 334b of the end 305c. The relatively shorter face 305a of the male part 340 further comprises two relatively smaller male coupling members, i.e. a second part of the second coupling assembly 312a, 314a. The male coupling member 312a is arranged relatively closer to the convex region 334a of the end 305c than to the shoulder 309b of the bead 300. The male coupling member 314a is arranged relatively closer to the shoulder 309b of the bead 300 than to the convex region 334a of the end 305c. That is, the male coupling members 312a, 314a are spaced apart on the relatively shorter face 305a of the male part 340 [79] The male coupling member 320b comprises a projection running along the length of the face 305b, and in cross section is shaped as a curved protuberance of a height H and of a radius R. The male coupling member 320b extends along the extrusion. In the example embodiment shown the male coupling member 320a is of symmetrical form when considered in cross section.

[80] The male coupling member 312a comprises an asymmetrical convex protuberance when considered in cross section, extending along the bead 300. The male coupling member 312a shown in the example embodiment of Figure 1 comprises an offset V-shaped tongue, with apex relatively closer to the shoulder 309b of the bead 300 than to a centreline of the asymmetrical concave tongue, and having a height h. Thus, the male coupling member 312a in cross-section comprises a generally triangular protrusion, having a first relatively shorter side 316a disposed towards and relatively more parallel to the shoulder 309a and a second relatively longer side 318a disposed away from and relatively less parallel to the shoulder 309a. The apex of the male coupling member 312a is radiused, to reduce stress concentrations and/or to facilitate insertion/and or removal as described in more detail below. The male coupling member 314a is similar to the male coupling member 312a.

[81] The female part 240 of the clip 200 is arranged to receive the male part 340 of the bead 300. The maximum width ( w + H + h ) of the male part 340 is greater than the minimum width w’ of the female part 240. In this way, an insertion of the male part 340 into the female part 240 comprises an interference fit or push fit. However, the maximum width (w + H + h ) of the male part 340 is less than a maximum width ( w’ + D + d ) of the female part 240. In this way, the coupling of the male part 340 when inserted into the female part 240 comprises a clearance fit.

[82] The female coupling member 220b (i.e. the first part of the first coupling assembly) of the clip 200 is arranged to receive the male coupling member 320b (i.e. the second part of the first coupling assembly). Additionally, the female coupling members 212a , 214a (i.e. the first part of the second coupling assembly) of the clip 200 are arranged to receive the male coupling members 312a, 314a (i.e. the second part of the second coupling assembly) respectively.

[83] Since the clip 200 is symmetric about the mid-plane 299 along the extrusion perpendicular to the base 204c of the clip 200, the female coupling member 220a (i.e. the first part of the first coupling assembly) of the clip 200 is also arranged to receive the male coupling member 320b (i.e. the second part of the first coupling assembly) and the female coupling members 212b & 212b (i.e. the first part of the second coupling assembly) of the clip 200 are also arranged to receive the male coupling members 312a, 314a (i.e. the second part of the second coupling assembly) respectively.

[84] Figures 2A - 2G show insertion and removal of the bead 300 into and from the clip 200.

[85] The clip 200 is fitted in a groove in a window frame (not shown). The outer faces 205a, 205b of the side walls 204a, 204b closely fit with corresponding side walls of the frame groove, with clearance between the clip 200 and the groove ideally being minimized or indeed eliminated. The outer face 205c of the base 204c is coupled to the frame groove by an adhesive (not shown). Staples, tacks or nails may also be used in holding the clip 200 in the window frame, for example by penetrating the base 204c.

[86] Figure 2A shows the initial process of coupling the bead 300 and the clip 200. The bead 300 is coupled to the clip 200 by inserting the bead 300 into the clip 200 by pressing or pushing the bead 300 into the clip 200 in an insertion direction 10. The insertion direction 10 is vertically down in the embodiment shown in Figure 2A. That is, the male part 340 of the bead 300 is inserted into the female part 240 of the clip 200.

[87] As detailed above, the maximum width (w + H + h ) of the male part 340 is greater than the (minimum) width w’ of the female part 240. The male coupling members 312a, 314a interfere with the inner face 207a and/or the male coupling member 320b interferes with the inner face 207b such that moving male part 340 of the bead 300 into the female part of the clip 200 causes the clip 200 and/or the bead 300 to elastically deform. For example, the side walls 204a, 204b may be urged apart by the bead 300, with the male coupling members 312a, 314a displacing the inner face 207a and/or the male coupling member 320b displacing the inner face 207b. Alternatively, or in addition the male coupling members 312a & 314a and/or the male coupling member 320b may be elastically compressed. The convex chamfers 206a, 206b on the male coupling members 312a, 314a and/or the male coupling member 320b respectively tend to slide, guide and/or facilitate insertion of the male part 340 into the female part 240.

[88] Figure 2B shows the bead 300 fully inserted into the clip 200. In this fully inserted configuration, the male part 340 of the bead 300 is received by the female part 240 of the clip 200. The relatively smaller male coupling members 312a, 314a of the bead 300 are received by the corresponding relatively smaller female coupling members 212a, 214a of the clip 200. The relatively larger male coupling member 320b of the bead 300 is received by the corresponding relatively larger female coupling member 220b of the clip 200. In this way, the bead 300 and the clip 200 are coupled.

[89] The shoulders 309a , 309b of the bead 300 engage with the ends 209a, 209b of the side walls 204a, 204b of the clip 200 to inhibit further insertion of the bead 300 into the clip 200.

[90] Since the minimum width w of the male part 340 is less than the width w’ of the female part 240, there is clearance 400a, 400b between the inner faces 207a, 207b of the clip 200 and the sides 305a, 305b of the bead 300 respectively. Further, since the length L of the relatively longer side 305b of the male part 340 is less than the depth D of the clip 200, there is a clearance 400c between the end 305c of the male part 340 and the inner face 207c of the base 204c. In this way, for example, debris such as paint, varnish, dust, etc. in the clip 200 tends to be accommodated in the clearances 400a, 400b and/or 400c, thereby reducing unintentional interference between the male part 340 and the female part 240.

[91] Figure 2C shows attempted removal of the bead 300 when fully inserted into the clip 200, by a separating force on the bead 300 in a direction 20 opposed to the insertion direction 10. Particularly, the coupling between the bead 300 and the clip 200 tends to resist removal of the bead 300 when fully inserted into the clip 200 by the separating force on the bead 300 in the direction 20. In detail, the first relatively shorter side 316a of the male coupling member 312a is pressed against the corresponding side 216a of the female coupling member 212a by the separating force in the direction 20. Additionally and/or alternatively, the first relatively shorter side 316a of the male coupling member 314a is pressed against the corresponding side 216a of the female coupling member 214a by the separating force in the direction 20. Additionally and/alternatively, a part of the male coupling member 320b is pressed against the corresponding part of the female coupling member 220b by the separating force in the direction 20. In this way, the male part 340 and the female part 240 provide a one-way coupling, permitting insertion in a direction and resisting removal in the opposite direction.

[92] Figure 2D shows attempted removal of the bead 300 when fully inserted into the clip 200, by a separating force on the bead 300 in direction 30, transverse to the insertion direction 10. The coupling between the bead 300 and the clip 200 tends to resist removal of the bead 300 in response to a force imparted on the bead 300 in the direction 30. Such force tends to rotate the bead 300 about the end 209b of the side wall 204b, pressing the relatively smaller male member 314a further into the relatively smaller female member 212a. In addition, a part of the relatively longer side 305b, proximal the external corner 330b of the male part 340, is pressed against a corresponding part of the inner face 207b of the side walls 204b, close to the inner face 207c of the base 204c thereby resisting rotation.

[93] Figure 2E shows partial removal of the bead 300, by a separating force on the bead 300 in a direction 40 transverse to the insertion direction 10. This directional movement can only be achieved when the window is in the open position. The coupling between the bead 300 and the clip 200 permits partial removal of the bead 300 in response to a force imparted on the bead 300 in the direction 40. In response to such a force the bead 300 moves from the fully inserted configuration to a first partially removed configuration. In detail, the separating force on the bead 300 in the direction 40 tends to rotate the bead 300 around the convex chamfer 206b of the inner side of the side wall 204b. The bead 300 rotates about the interface of the relatively larger male member 320b and the relatively larger female member 222b. In addition, since the convex region 334a chamfers from the flat region 334b to the relatively shorter side 305a, a part of the relatively shorter side 305a, proximal the convex region 334a of the male part 340 is not pressed against a corresponding part of the inner face 207a of the side wall 204a, proximal the inner face 207c of the base 204c thereby permitting rotation. The rotation results in relatively smaller male members 312a, 314a uncoupling from relatively smaller female members 212a, 214a respectively. Relatively smaller male member 312a moves towards and enters the relatively larger female member 220a while the relatively smaller male member 314a moves towards convex chamfer 206a.

[94] Figure 2F shows further partial removal of the bead 300, by a separating force on the bead 300 in a direction 50 transverse to the insertion direction 10. Particularly, the coupling between the bead 300 and the clip 200 permits further partial removal of the bead 300 by the separating force on the bead 300 in the direction 50, when the bead 300 is arranged in the first partially removed configuration. In response to such a force the bead 300 moves from the first partially removed configuration to a second partially removed configuration. The separating force on the bead 300 in the direction 50 tends to rotate the bead 300 around the convex chamfer 206a of the side wall 204a. This rotation tends to move the relatively smaller male member 314a beyond the open end of the clip 200 and thus out of the clip 200. Further, this rotation tends to move the relatively smaller male member 312a within the relatively larger female member 220a further towards the open end of the clip 200. In addition, this rotation tends to move the relatively larger male member 320b such that the relatively larger male member 320b is displaced from the relatively larger female member 220b and instead pressed against the convex chamfer 206b of the inner side of the side wall 204b. Furthermore, the external corner 330b of the male part 340 is moved towards and couples with relatively smaller female member 212b of the clip 200. Hence, the separating force on the bead 300 in a direction 50 transverse to the insertion direction 10, when applied to the bead 300 in the first partially removed configuration (i.e. as described with reference to Figure 2E above), tends to move the bead to the second partially removed configuration (i.e. as described with reference to Figure 2F).

[95] Figure 2G shows removal of the bead 300, by a separating force on the bead 300 in a direction 60 opposed to the insertion direction 10. Particularly, the coupling between the bead 300 and the clip 200 tends to permit completion of removal of the bead 300 by the separating force on the bead 300 in the direction 60. Thus, the bead 300 tends to move from the second partially removed configuration to a removed configuration, in which the bead 300 is uncoupled from the clip 200.

[96] Hence, the window bead assembly 100 permits the bead 300 to be pressed into the clip 200 in the insertion direction and tends to resist removal of the bead 300, when fully inserted into the clip 200, according to a force on the bead 300 in a direction opposed to the insertion direction. Particularly, the arrangement of releasable couplings, provided by male coupling member 320b engaging with female coupling member 220b and male coupling members 312a, 312b engaging with female coupling members 212a, 212b respectively, provides secure coupling of the bead 300 when fully inserted into the clip 200. The window bead assembly 100 permits the bead 300 to be removed, when fully inserted into the clip 200, according to a force on the bead 300 in a direction transverse to the insertion direction. Removal of the bead 300 from the clip 200 may be achieved by a plurality of forces successively applied to the bead 300 in opposed directions, transverse to the insertion direction, that tend to move the bead 300 between partially removed configurations. Final removal of the bead 300 from the clip 200 may be achieved by a force applied to the bead 300 in a direction opposed to the insertion direction. In this way, damage to the sash window, for example, during removal of the bead 300 from the clip 200 is minimized and/or avoided, since conventional methods of bead removal, as described previously, are not required. Additionally, specialist tools are similarly not required.

[97] In addition, the clearances 400a, 400b and/or 400c, provided between the bead 300 and the clip 200, tend to reduce unintentional interference between the male part 340 and the female part 240, since debris such as paint, varnish, dust, etc. in the clip 200 tends to be accommodated in these clearances.

[98] The operation of the coupling between bead and clip as described above is particularly advantageous in preserving security of the sash that is retained by the bead. The bead 300 may only be removed by a force applied to the bead from a specific side. For example, the window bead assembly 100 may be installed in a window frame whereby removal of the bead 300 is possible only when the sash is open i.e. when the sash does not prevent movement of the bead 300 in the direction required to start the process by which removal of the bead 300 from the clip 200 is effected. Hence, the window bead assembly 100 overcomes the security risk associated with conventional removable parting bead, while maintaining easy installation and ease of removal when the sash window is open.

[99] Furthermore, the profiles and material property requirements of the bead 300 and the clip 200 are amenable to mono-extrusion, thereby reducing cost and/or complexity of manufacture compared with co-extrusion. Particularly, the male coupling members 312a, 321b, 320b of the bead 300 may be provided in the same polymer as, for example, the outer part 350 and/or the male part 340.

[100] Figure 3 shows a cross-section of a window bead assembly according to another example embodiment, in which a staff bead 1300 may be pressed into a clip 1200 and subsequently removed by a lateral release movement.

[101] In detail, the clip 1200 is similar to and/or the same as the clip 200 described previously.

[102] The staff bead 1300 comprises an asymmetric WPC extrusion, of a generally rectangular profile, having an outer part 1350, arranged to receive a sealing member (not shown) and a male part 1340, arranged to be received by the clip 1200. The male part 1340 is similar to and/or the same as the male part 340 of the parting bead 300, as described previously.

[103] Hence, insertion of the staff bead 1300 into the clip 1200 and removal of the staff bead 1300 from the clip 1200 are as described previously with reference to the parting bead 300 and the clip 200.

[104] Although a few preferred embodiments have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications might be made without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims.

[105] While the clip 200 is described as comprising a channel profile such as a U-section profile of a symmetric extrusion, the clip 200 may alternatively comprise an asymmetric extrusion. Particularly, the features of the bead 300 that restrict a lateral movement of the bead to a specific direction may be instead included in the clip 200. For example, the external corner 330b, and the convex region 334a, that chamfers from the flat region 334b to the relatively shorter side 305a of the bead 300 may instead be included in the clip 200 while these features may be correspondingly removed from the bead 300. In this way, the clip 200 may define the specific direction of the lateral movement of the bead 300 that may result in removal of the bead 300 from the clip 200. That is, the clip 200 may be installed by a manufacturer of the sash window, for example, in an orientation that minimizes a security risk.

[106] Furthermore, while the male coupling members 312a, 314a, 320b are described as extending along the extrusion, the male coupling members may alternatively be discrete male coupling members, which may be arranged regularly or irregularly along the extrusion. Additionally and/or alternatively, while the female coupling members 212a, 214a, 220b and 212b, 214b, 220a are described as extending along the extrusion, the female coupling members may alternatively be discrete female coupling members, which may be arranged regularly or irregularly along the extrusion.

[107] Further, while two relatively smaller male coupling member 312a, 312b are described, the clip 300 may include only one relatively smaller male coupling member, for example, the male coupling member 312a or the male coupling member 312b. The clip 200 may thus comprise a corresponding number (e.g. one) of corresponding female coupling members. For such embodiments removal of the bead 300 from the clip 200 may be achieved through a lesser number partially removed configurations. Alternatively, the clip 300 may include more than two relatively smaller male coupling members, for example, three or more. The clip 200 may thus comprise a corresponding number (e.g. three or more) of corresponding female coupling members. For such embodiments removal of the bead 300 from the clip 200 may be achieved through a greater number of partially removed configurations.

[108] Although a few preferred embodiments have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications might be made without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims.

[109] Attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

[110] All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.

[111] Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

[112] The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiments). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims

1. A window bead assembly comprising: a bead and a clip arranged to receive the bead; wherein the bead and the clip are couplable by pressing the bead into the clip in an insertion direction; and wherein the bead and the clip are uncouplable by urging the bead in a direction that is not aligned with the insertion direction.

2. A window bead according to claim 1, wherein the bead and the clip are arranged to resist uncoupling of the bead from the clip by a force urging the bead in a direction opposed to the insertion direction.

3. A window bead assembly according to any previous claim, wherein the bead and the clip are uncouplable by urging the bead in a one direction that is not aligned with the insertion direction but arranged to resist uncoupling of the bead from the clip by a force urging the bead in another direction that is not aligned to the insertion direction.

4. A window bead assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the bead and the clip are arranged to permit uncoupling of the bead from the clip in response to a force urging the bead in one direction that is not aligned with the insertion direction, but arranged to resist uncoupling of the bead from the clip by a force urging the bead in another direction that is of opposite sense to the direction in which uncoupling is permitted.

5. A window bead assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the bead and the clip are arranged to resist uncoupling of the bead from the clip by a force urging the bead to rotate in one direction and the bead and the clip are arranged to permit uncoupling of the bead from the clip by a force urging the bead to rotate in an opposite direction.

6. A window bead assembly according to claim 1, wherein the bead and the clip are arranged to be coupled by an interference fit.

7. A window bead assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the bead comprises a male part that is received by a female part of the clip to couple the bead with the clip, the male part comprising a first male coupling member arranged on one side thereof and a second male coupling member arranged on an opposite side thereof; and wherein the clip comprises a first female coupling member arranged on one side thereof and a second female coupling member arranged on an opposite side thereof.

8. A window bead assembly according to claim 7, wherein the first male coupling member arranged is offset from the second male coupling member; and wherein the first female coupling is offset from the second female coupling member.

9. A window bead assembly according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the bead comprises a first relatively larger male coupling member arranged on one side of the male part of the bead and a second relatively smaller male coupling member arranged on an opposite side of the male part of the bead; and wherein the clip comprises a first relatively larger female coupling member arranged on one side of the clip and a second relatively smaller female coupling member arranged on an opposite side of the clip.

10. A window bead assembly according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the bead comprises a first relatively larger male coupling member arranged on one side thereof and a plurality of relatively smaller male coupling members arranged on an opposite side thereof; and wherein the clip comprises a first relatively larger female coupling member arranged on one side thereof and a plurality of relatively smaller female coupling members arranged on an opposite side thereof.

11. A window bead assembly according to claim 10, wherein the first relatively larger male coupling member is offset from the plurality of relatively smaller male coupling members; and wherein the first relatively larger female coupling member is offset from the plurality of relatively smaller female coupling members.

12. A window bead assembly according to claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the clip comprises a second relatively larger female coupling member arranged on the opposite side of thereof and a plurality of relatively smaller female coupling members arranged on the one side of the clip.

13. A window bead assembly according to claim 12, wherein the plurality of relatively smaller female coupling members arranged on one side of the clip are aligned with the plurality of relatively smaller female coupling members arranged on the opposite side of the clip; and wherein the first relatively larger female coupling member arranged on one side of the clip is aligned with the second relatively larger female coupling member arranged on the opposite side of the clip.

14. A window bead assembly according to any of claims 9 to 13, wherein the first relatively larger male coupling member comprises a symmetric projection.

15. A window bead assembly according to any of claims 9 to 14, wherein the relatively larger female coupling member(s) comprise(s) a symmetric cavity.

16. A window bead assembly according to any of claims 10 to 15, wherein the relatively smaller male coupling members comprise an asymmetric projection.

17. A window bead assembly according to any of claims 10 to 16, wherein the relatively smaller female coupling members comprise an asymmetric cavity.

18. A window bead assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the bead comprises a male coupling member, one side of which comprises a first coupling protrusion and the other side of which comprises second coupling protrusions, and a the clip comprises a channel with groves on inner surfaces thereof to receive the protrusions of the male coupling member when the bead and clip are coupled.

19. A window bead assembly according to claim 18, wherein the first and second coupling protrusions are asymmetrically arranged on the sides of the male coupling member.

20. A window bead assembly according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the first and second coupling protrusions are offset from one another along the length of the male coupling member.

21. A window bead assembly according to any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the first and second coupling protrusions are of different sizes to each other.

22. A window bead assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the clip comprises a U-shaped channel.

23. A window bead assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the bead consists of a polymer or wherein the clip consists of a polymer.

24. A window bead assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein clearance is provided between the bead and the clip when the bead and clip are coupled, for example at the base of the clip.

25. A window comprising a window bead assembly, the window bead assembly comprising: a bead and a clip arranged to receive the bead; wherein the bead and the clip are couplable by pressing the bead into the clip in an insertion direction; and wherein the bead and the clip are uncouplable by urging the bead in a direction that is not aligned with the insertion direction.

26. A window according to claim 25, wherein removal of the bead from the clip is prevented when the window is closed by obstruction of the bead by a section of the closed window, thereby preventing the bead from moving in the direction that is not aligned with the insertion direction.

27. A window according to claim 25 or 26, wherein when the window is open, clearance is provided to allow the bead to move in the direction that not aligned with the insertion direction to thereby enable uncoupling.

28. A method of using a window bead assembly comprising: a bead and a clip arranged to receive the bead, wherein the bead and the clip are couplable by pressing the bead into the clip in an insertion direction; wherein the method comprises: urging the bead in a direction that is not aligned with the insertion direction to thereby uncouple the bead and the clip.

29. A method according to claim 28, wherein the method comprises pressing the bead into the clip in the insertion direction, whereby the bead and the clip are coupled.

30. A method according to claim 28 or 29, wherein the bead and the clip are arranged to resist uncoupling of the bead from the clip by a force urging the bead to rotate in one direction and the bead and the clip are arranged to permit uncoupling of the bead from the clip by a force urging the bead to rotate in an opposite direction.

31. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 30, comprising urging the bead to move from a fully inserted configuration to a first partially removed configuration.

32. A method according to claim 31, comprising urging the bead to move the first partially removed configuration to a second partially removed configuration.

33. A method according to claim 32, comprising urging the bead to move from a fully inserted configuration to the first partially removed configuration by rotating relative to the clip.

34. A method according to claim 33, comprising urging the bead to move from the first partially removed configuration to the second partially removed configuration by rotating relative to the clip, said rotation being of opposite sense to the rotation that moves the bead from the fully inserted configuration to the first partially removed configuration.

35. A window bead assembly or a method of using a window bead assembly substantially as described herein with reference to, or as shown in, the accompanying drawings.