GB2585618A

GB2585618A - Glazing profiles

Info

Publication number: GB2585618A
Application number: GB1807292.6A
Authority: GB
Inventors: John Hanvey Peter
Original assignee: BRETT MARTIN Ltd
Current assignee: BRETT MARTIN Ltd
Priority date: 2018-05-03
Filing date: 2018-05-03
Publication date: 2021-01-20
Anticipated expiration: 2038-05-03
Also published as: GB201807292D0; GB2585618B

Abstract

The profile 100 comprises an inner profile element 110 and an opposed, interlocking, removable outer profile element 120 wherein the inner profile element comprises first 111 and second 112 grooves for receiving and retaining said outer profile element. The outer profile element comprises an upstand 121 for retaining a glazing pane, an arm 122 protruding from said upstand with the arm having a hook 125 and cam lobe 126 for engagement with the inner profile element via the first and second grooves respectively. The outer element also comprises a down stand 128 protruding from said arm for use in separating the outer profile element from the inner profile element and a leg 123 downwardly protruding from the arm with the leg having a lip 124 at its free end for further attachment to the inner profile element. When the outer profile element is received in the inner profile element, the two profile elements together form a substantially u-shaped channel. Also disclosed is a glazing frame and a method for securing fixing of glazing.

Description

GLAZING PROFILES

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to the field of glazing profiles, in particular to profiles for polycarbonate sheets, and to an improved method for the secure fixing of glazing in all orientations.

Background to the Invention

There are many known designs of extruded frame members for interlocking glazing systems. Such extruded frame members may be referred to herein as 'window profiles', 'glazing profiles' or simply profiles'. In order to reduce heat loss and condensation, profiles may be thermally broken, such that inner and outer sections of a profile are interconnected by means of a rigid member of heat insulating material which insulates the sections from each other and substantially reduces heat conductivity between them.

Polycarbonate has a high co-efficient of linear expansion, resulting in continuous movement of the sheet in the plane of installation throughout a day. Standard profiles for use with glass panels are therefore not suitable for use with polycarbonate glazing panels.

The standard solution to enclose the end of a polycarbonate glazing panel involves "U" shaped glazing profiles. Such profiles are very large (approximately 70-90 mm deep) and do not facilitate the simple removal of glazing panels. For example, RodecaTm sell frames with an enclosed head profile and two-part base profile. These frames require complicated installation wherein the top of a polycarbonate sheet is located into the inside of the head profile. The sheet is then lifted up into the head profile until fully engaged, rotated to rest against the base profile and lowered onto the panel stop. Inverted installation of such profiles, i.e. using the base profile at the top of the sheet, is not advised due to the possibility of disengagement thereof. Furthermore, removal of a damaged sheet or panel enclosed within such a frame is also very difficult. Moreover, many prior art profiles are either only suitable for glass panels and/or only suitable for fixing through the base, limiting their use to particular applications. -2 -

It is a therefore an object of the present invention to provide a profile for a glazing frame such that the glazing pane, preferably a polycarbonate sheet, is easily installed, securely fixed within the frame in all orientations, i.e. in the top, base and jambs of the profile, and easily removed for repair or replacement.

Summary of the Invention

The present invention relates to a glazing profile, in particular to a profile for a frame for both commercial and industrial glazing applications such as dome rooflights, flat, curved or pitched rooflights, conservatory glazing, vertical glazing (e.g. façades, partitions and cladding), sound barriers, bullet proof glazing, safety glazing, pitched glazing, stadia, covered walkways, refurbishment of Georgian wired glass and Northlights and fabrication and to an improved method for the secure fixing of glazing within a profile in all orientations.

Accordingly, a first aspect of the present invention is a profile for a frame for an architectural glazing product, said profile comprising an inner profile element and an opposed, interlocking, removable outer profile element, wherein said inner profile element comprises first and second grooves for receiving and retaining said outer profile element and said outer profile element comprises an upstand for retaining a glazing panel, an arm protruding from said upstand, the arm having a hook and cam lobe for engagement with the inner profile element via said first and second grooves, respectively, a downstand protruding from said arm for use in separating the outer profile element from the inner profile element and a leg downwardly protruding from said arm, the leg having a lip at its free end for further attachment to said inner profile element.

When the outer profile element is received in the inner profile element, the two profile elements together form a substantially U-shaped channel.

One advantage of the above arrangement is that it permits tool-less installation and removal of glazing panes via rotation of the outer part of the profile, i.e. the removable outer profile element, improving speed and ease of installation and removal.

The geometry and placement of the two opposed interlocking profile elements means that the outer profile element is secured to the inner profile element in multiple locations and secure connection of the profile is ensured in all orientations, without reliance on -3 -compression of gaskets. In other words, the same profile may be used at the top, base and sides of a glazing panel within the frame, whilst allowing for unimpeded horizontal installation of the glazing panel and thermal movement (i.e. expansion and contraction) of the enclosed glazing panel.

By horizontal installation of the glazing panel is meant that no rotation of the glazing panel is required. For example, when the glazing panel is to be installed in a frame such that it is perpendicular to the ground, the panel is placed into the inner profile element horizontally. There is no obstruction to the opening in which the panel is to be inserted. This both simplifies installation and reduces installation time of large polycarbonate sheets far easier than when compared to using prior art profiles which require the top of the sheet to be angled in to the head profile and rotated into place.

In order to remove the outer profile element, the top of the upstand is pushed inwards whilst the downstand is simultaneously pulled outwards. This releases the lip so that the outer profile element can be rotated out of the retaining grooves on the inner profile element.

In a preferred embodiment, the hook and cam lobe are at the free end of the outer profile element arm.

In a preferred embodiment, the outer profile element comprises one or more drainage holes and a pitched section leading to the one or more drainage holes.

Due to the expansion and contraction of polycarbonate sheets, water can enter the frame when used with such glazing panels. To avoid any negative impact of this, such as water sitting on top of and rusting fixings, travelling down fixing thread, pooling to allow algae formation and/or evaporating and increasing relative humidity, the profile is a water managed profile. Thus, in a preferred embodiment, the outer profile element is sloped towards one or more drainage holes provided in the outer profile element to remove water from the profile. In addition, the downstand on the outer profile element protects the drainage hole and inhibits entry of wind driven rain to the profile once installed.

The downstand hides the drainage hole or holes from view once the profile is installed. This is an aesthetic advantage and also prevents the need for an additional cover cowl such as those generally added to glazing profiles to prevent ingress of wind driven rain. The -4 -downstand on the outer profile element also helps to create an area of negative pressure, assisting the drainage of water in high wind situations.

The downstand preferably extends from the upstand such that it is a continuation thereof in the opposite direction. The downstand is preferably parallel to the outer profile element leg.

When viewed in section with the outer profile on the right, the removable outer profile element is preferably connected to the inner profile element via clockwise rotation and disconnected via anti-clockwise rotation. Forces acting on the profile when installed in this way result in a clockwise rotation of the outer profile element, further securing the connection of the two interlocking elements and glazing panel installed between them.

The opposed interlocking join between the inner and outer profile elements allows for longitudinal movement of the outer profile element. This has the advantage that, should the outer profile element exhibit a faster rate of temperature change than the inner profile element, the profile will not buckle on expansion or contraction. Furthermore, as screws are not required to fix the outer and inner profile elements together, there is no concern as to fatigue of screw fixings leading to ultimate failure due to lateral pressure.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the hook and cam lobe are at the free end of the outer profile element arm with the drainage holes between the pitched section and the upstand.

In a preferred embodiment, the drainage holes are placed at intervals (referred to in the art as centres) along the outer profile element. The distance between the drainage hole centres is preferably in the range of about 200 mm to about 1,000 mm. For example, the drainage holes are preferably placed at 500 mm centres.

Each drainage hole centre has one or more drainage slots, preferably about 2 to about 5 slots, e.g. 3 slots. However, this is not limiting and any number of slots may be used.

The drainage hole or each slot is preferably in the range of about 10 mm to about 50 mm long, e.g. about 25 mm long and in the range of about 3 mm to about 10 mm wide, e.g. about 6 mm wide. -5 -

The drainage hole or each drainage slot may be circular, rectangular, square, oval or any other suitable shape. The slots may each be the same shape or different shapes. Particularly preferably all drainage slots are oval shaped.

In a preferred embodiment, the outer profile element is sloped towards a water gallery containing the drainage holes. In this embodiment, an internal pitched water gallery suitable for channelling water to the drainage hole with no requirement for externally applied cowlings is preferably formed between the upstand of the removable outer profile element and the pitched section of the arm. Preferably the internal pitch is in the range of about 4 to about 10 degrees, particularly preferably from about 4 to about 6 degrees.

The internal pitched water gallery within the profile promotes water removal.

In a preferred embodiment, the inner profile element further comprises an upstand with a groove for receiving a gasket to assist in retaining the glazing panel. The upstand preferably has a perpendicular protrusion for supporting the glazing panel when the profile is installed at the base of the panel. The first groove for receiving and retaining the outer profile element is preferably located on the underside of this protrusion and is for engagement with the hook of the arm of the outer profile element.

Additionally or alternatively, the inner profile element preferably further comprises a leg parallel to the upstand, with the second groove for receiving and retaining the outer profile element preferably at the base of the leg. This second groove is for engagement with the cam lobe of the arm of the outer profile element. An arm preferably extends from above this second groove on the inner profile element, the end of which is for engagement with the lip of the outer profile element.

When interlocked, the arms and legs of the inner and outer profile elements preferably together form a void suitable for placing a fixing to secure the inner profile element to a window sill such that the fixing is protected from ingress of water.

The inner and outer profile elements are preferably made of metal such as aluminium, stainless steel or carbon steel. In preferred embodiments, said inner and outer profile elements are formed of a metal alloy, particularly preferably an extruded metal alloy, especially preferably an extruded aluminium alloy. Other suitable materials for the inner -6 -and outer profile elements include polycarbonate, glass-fibre reinforced polyester (GRP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyamide, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), carbon fibre composite and glass fibre reinforced polyurethane polymer resin (PUR).

The inner profile element may be of the same material as, or a different material from, the material of the outer profile element.

In preferred embodiments, the profile is a composite profile, wherein said inner profile element is comprised of an inner member, an outer member and at least one thermally insulating member, said inner member and said outer member being connected together by said at least one thermally insulating member, said at least one thermally insulating member holding said inner and outer members at a predetermined distance from each other. Such composite profiles may be referred to herein as "thermally-broken profiles".

The thermally insulating member may be made of any suitable material, which is robust relatively rigid and which is a good thermal insulator. Various plastic materials such as GRP, phenolic resin and polyamide are preferred, including low-lambda and bio-based alternatives. By low lambda polyamide is meant polyamide with a lambda value of less than 0.3 W/mK, e.g. 0.21 W/mK. By bio-based polyamide is meant polyamide derived from a renewable biomass source, such as castor oil.

The thermally insulating member is particularly preferably an extruded or pultruded section of glass fibre-reinforced polyester. The thermally insulating member is preferably hollow. In an alternative preferred embodiment, the thermally insulating member may comprise a plurality of hollow channels.

In another aspect, the invention provides a glazing frame incorporating a profile as described herein, the glazing frame further comprising a glazing panel and preferably an external gasket and/or one or more internal gaskets.

The glazing panel for use in a frame comprising the profile according to the invention is preferably a sheet, particularly preferably a polycarbonate sheet. Other suitable materials for the glazing panel include but are not limited to glass, polyvinylchloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and GRP. -7 -

The glazing panel may be transparent or translucent, preferably transparent.

The glazing panel may be a solid single-walled sheet or a multi-walled sheet.

Preferably, the glazing panel is a formed of multi-wall polycarbonate. The multi-wall polycarbonate sheet generally comprises about two walls to about 20 walls, preferably about 5 walls to about 15 walls, e.g. about 10 walls.

The multi-wall polycarbonate sheet generally has a total thickness of about 4 mm to about mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 55 mm, e.g. about 40 mm.

Sheets formed of multi-wall polycarbonate typically have an uneven outer surface. The outermost wall in the multi-wall polycarbonate sheet preferably has a wall thickness in the range of from 1 to 3 mm, preferably about 2 mm.

In order to avoid the multi-wall polycarbonate having relatively low compression strength, all interstitial walls are preferably supported by ribs which form flutes within the sheet. Such ribs may be diagonal or perpendicular to the walls. Ribs are preferably placed at approximately 20 mm centres, resulting in reduced surface flatness variance.

In the embodiment having an internal pitched water gallery within the profile, water removal is promoted, thus reducing the potential of interstitial condensation within polycarbonate sheet flutes which would otherwise result from increased relative humidity from pooled water. Such water removal by the gallery also helps to reduce the accumulation of slits, the presence of which can encourage the formation of algae.

In an alternative embodiment, rather than having an internal pitched water gallery, the sheet could be cut at an angle to form a sheet pitch to reduce risk of contact with water and to increase air circulation. However, a sheet pitch would necessitate an increased height of the outer profile element.

The external gasket is located in a groove on the upstand of the outer profile element and the internal gaskets are each independently located in a groove on the upstand of the inner profile element. -8 -

The external gasket stops the outer profile element from unwanted rotation. The internal gaskets reduce rotational movement of glazing sheets within the profile.

The internal and external gaskets are preferably identical in size and shape and material.

In the following description, reference to "the gasket" can refer to either an internal or external gasket.

The gasket has a dovetail shape which enables it to be located into place within the profile element and briefly retained within the groove until a glazing panel is installed, retaining it more permanently.

The gasket is preferably made by co-extrusion of polypropylene and thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). The PP portion of the gasket is a clip detail which catches in the groove in the profile element and prevents unwanted easy removal. The TPE portion provides flexibility to the gasket, i.e. compression of the TPE portions allow each gasket to slide into place within the groove in the profile element. The TPE portion is also used to provide colour to the gasket.

It a common problem with prior art profiles which do not have gaskets with such polypropylene details that vertical thermal movement of glazing sheets results in dislodgement of the gaskets. It has also been noted that birds peck at gaskets leading to the gaskets falling out with the result that the glazing panel in such prior art profiles is no longer secure.

The co-extruded PP portion of the preferred gasket described above prevents both overstretching and shrinking back of the gasket during installation, each of which may result in unsealed gaps appearing at corners of the profile.

Furthermore, in light of the fact that the outer profile element is secured to the inner profile element in multiple locations, if the external gasket were to somehow become dislodged, the profile and glazing panel, e.g. polycarbonate sheet, will maintain fixed. Therefore, the profile may be used in all orientations, i.e. at the top and sides of the glazing panel as well as at the base. -9 -

The glazing frame preferably further comprises a first alignment bracket to align the inner profile element and to connect adjacent inner profile elements to from a frame whilst allowing thermal movement and a water-tight junction.

The first alignment bracket is preferably made of polypropylene. Alternative materials for the manufacture of the alignment bracket include ABS and nylon. One or more gaskets, for example made of foamed ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), are preferably used with the first alignment bracket.

The glazing frame preferably further comprises a second alignment bracket to align the outer profile element and to connect adjacent outer profile elements to form a frame whilst allowing thermal movement and a water-tight junction.

The second alignment bracket is preferably made of polycarbonate. Alternative materials for the manufacture of the alignment bracket include metal, e.g. aluminium.

The glazing frame preferably further comprises corner brackets to align and connect inner profile elements at the side and top or side and base of the frame whilst allowing thermal movement and a water-tight junction. The corner brackets may be made of any suitable material, for example aluminium or stainless steel. Preferably, the corner brackets are 90 degree angle brackets. Additionally or alternatively, an injection moulded polypropylene/TPE 90 degree sealing bracket may be used, preferably along with a gasket, e.g. a foamed EPDM gasket.

When a glazing panel is installed in the profile according to the invention, the base thereof is only partially supported and so a plenum is created at the base of the glazing panel. The panel support allows the edge of the glazing panel to cantilever within the free space which improves the cross flow of air, thus avoiding condensation. Due to the same profile being used in all orientations within the glazing frame, a plenum is also created at the top and sides of the glazing panel and the same effect is achieved around the entire panel The plenum at the base of the profile should be as dry as possible to reduce and remove condensation from within the sheets. This is achieved by the tight seal between the external gasket and the glazing panel, e.g. between the gasket and the outer wall of a multi-wall -10 -polycarbonate sheet. However if any water were to pass this seal, the internal pitched water gallery would direct it to ensure removal via external flow of the water to the slotted drainage holes.

All of the above is achieved with no visible fixings whilst still allowing thermal expansion of the glazing panel, water management and secure fixing of the glazing panel in all orientations.

It should be noted that the terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the location of the profile element when mounted on a structure such as a building, wherein the inner profile element generally faces the interior of the building and the outer profile element the exterior. In general the inner profile element should be viewed as forming the side of the frame that generally sees a lower temperature change than the outer profile element that is mounted in a location that sees a greater temperature variation. In this regard these terms should not be viewed overly restrictively and cases where the glazing frames are mounted internally within a building could be envisaged. In such a case, it makes sense to mount the outer profile element on the side that sees the greatest temperature changes as it has been designed to be robust under such conditions.

Preferably, in order to allow longitudinal movement in the join between the members of the outer profile element in the thermally broken profiles according to the invention, for reduction of the warping effect due to the temperature gradient between the inner and outer profile elements, said inner and outer members of the outer profile element each comprise at least one groove for receiving said at least one thermally insulating member, said at least one groove on said inner member comprising gripping means for impeding longitudinal movement of said thermally insulating member within said at least one groove, said at least one groove on said outer member not comprising said gripping means for impeding longitudinal movement of said thermally insulating member within said at least one groove.

Preferably, said gripping means comprises knurling or some sort of roughening of the inner surface on at least one inner surface of said at least one groove. This increases the friction between the member and the groove thus improving grip.

Alternatively and/or additionally, the gripping means may comprise adhesive on at least one of the inner surfaces of the groove. This is a further way of causing the insulating member to he held tightly within that groove while being allowed to slide within the other.

Conversely, the interlocking join between the inner and outer profile elements allows longitudinal movement as the outer profile element may exhibit a faster rate of temperate change than the inner.

The profile, whether thermally broken or not, is preferably mill finished, anodised or powder coated, especially preferably powder coated.

Powder coating the profile elements is a preferred way of finishing and if it is performed after the inner and outer profile elements are joined to form a thermally broken profile then it has the additional advantageous effect of driving the moisture out of the thermally insulating member which, where the thermally insulating member is formed of a plastic such as polyamide, relaxes the strength of the joint allowing some movement thereby reducing warping effects.

Using a standard glazing bead, such as GallinaTM Base AL profile 4140, the uneven compression rate of the external gasket due to the non-flat surface of the glazing panel can result in water ingress. The poor compression of the gasket, and the continuous movement of the sheet, can result in dislodgement of the gasket and ultimately the bead.

Windloads create external negative pressure, forcing glazing panels to move laterally. This movement is limited by the upstand of the outer profile element and is preferably further limited by the use of purlin clips fixed to the interior facing side of the glazing panel.

In yet another aspect, the invention provides a method for secure fixing of glazing in all orientations, the method using a profile as herein described and comprising the steps of: (i) attaching a base gasket to inner profile element; installing the inner profile element; (iii) pressing one or more internal gaskets into grooves on the inner profile element; (iv) installing a glazing panel in the inner profile element; (v) interlocking the outer profile element with the inner profile element; and (vi) pressing an external gasket into a groove on the outer profile element.

-12 -The outer profile element is installed by attaching the lip on the leg thereof to a protrusion on the arm of the inner profile element and then rotating the outer profile element such that the retaining hook is engaged with a groove on the underside of the panel support of the inner profile element and the cam lobe is engaged with a groove on the leg of the inner profile element.

In a preferred embodiment, the method includes the step of joining adjacent inner profile elements together with first alignment brackets.

In another preferred embodiment, the method includes the step of joining the inner profile elements together both at the side and top of the frame and at the side and base of the frame with corner brackets.

In another preferred embodiment, the method includes the step of joining adjacent outer profile elements together with second alignment brackets.

Brief Description of the drawings

Certain preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 shows an exploded cross-sectional view of a non-thermally broken profile according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 shows the embodiment of Figure 1 after assembly; Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the profile shown in Figures 1 and 2; Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of a glazing sheet in a frame comprising the non-thermally broken profile according to Figures 1 to 3; Figures 5A to 5F show a schematic diagram of a glazing frame unit showing steps involved in the insertion of an outer profile element into an inner profile element of the non-thermally broken profile according to an embodiment of the present invention; -13 -Figure 6 shows an exploded cross-sectional view of a thermally broken profile according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 shows the embodiment of Figure 6 after assembly; Figure 8 shows a perspective view of the profile shown in Figures 6 and 7; Figure 9 shows a cross-sectional view of a glazing sheet in a frame comprising the thermally broken profile according to Figures 6 to 8; Figure 10 shows an exploded perspective view of a glazing sheet in a frame comprising the non-thermally broken profile according to Figures 1 to 3, prior to installation of the outer profile element; and Figure 11 shows a cutaway perspective view of the glazing sheet and frame of Figure 10 including the outer profile element.

Detailed Disclosure of the Invention

Various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings, where like reference numeral represent like parts and assemblies throughout the several views.

Referring to the drawings, Figure 1 shows two parts of a non-thermally broken glazing frame profile 100 in cross-section, namely an inner profile element 110 and an opposed, interlocking outer profile element 120. When mounted in a glazing unit, inner profile element 110 faces the interior of a building and outer profile element 120 the exterior.

Inner profile element 110 comprises upstand 101 from which panel support 119 protrudes perpendicularly. On installation of profile 100 at the base of a glazing frame, upstand 101 will be substantially vertical and panel support 119 substantially horizontal. In this orientation, panel support 119 thus supports a portion of the base of a glazing panel.

Leg 102 extends downwardly from panel support 119 and is substantially parallel to upstand 101. Arm 103 extends from leg 102. Two downwardly protruding bars 118 extend from -14 -arm 103. Bars 118 create discontinuity of profile 100 with an air gap. This void prevents water penetration via capillary action, for example from pooled water on a window sill.

Grooves 111 and 112 are for receiving and retaining outer profile element 120. Groove 111 is located on the underside of panel support 119 and groove 112 is located on the side of leg 102 which faces outer profile element 120.

Inner profile element 110 further comprises grooves 113, 114 and 115 which are each independently for receiving and retaining an E-gasket and ridges 116 and 117 which are each independently for fixing screws (not shown in Figure 1). Grooves 113 and 114 are located on the side of upstand 101 facing towards outer element 120. Groove 115 is located at the end of leg 102 on the underside of arm 103. Ridge 116 is located between grooves 113 and 114 on the side of upstand 101 facing towards outer element 120 and ridge 117 is located on the top of arm 103.

Outer profile element 120 comprises upstand 121, downstand 128, arm 122 and downwardly protruding leg 123. Arm 122 is attached at one end to upstand 121 and is substantially perpendicular thereto. At its free end, arm 122 is provided with retaining hook and cam lobe 126 for attachment to inner profile element 110 via grooves 111 and 112, respectively. Leg 123 extends downwardly from arm 122 and is substantially perpendicular thereto. Leg 123 is parallel to both downstand 128 and upstand 121 but points in the opposite direction to upstand 121. Leg 123 is provided with lip 124 at its free end for further attachment to inner profile element 110, in particular via arm 103 thereof.

Drainage holes 175 are located in the portion of arm 122 between leg 123 and upstand 121 and arm 122 is provided with an internal 4 degree pitch for channelling water to drainage holes 175. The drainage hole 175 is thus located within a shadow gap, i.e. a recess generally in shadow, and hidden from view such that there are no visible drainage holes in the profile. This leads to a more aesthetically pleasing product as externally applied cowlings are not required.

Upstand 121 of outer profile element 120 comprises groove 127 for receiving and retaining an E-gasket.

-15 -The opposed interlocking geometry of the outer profile element 120 with inner profile element 110 ensures profile 100 can be used in any orientation as the interference fit ensures a secure connection The assembled non-thermally broken glazing frame profile 100 is shown in Figures 2 and 3. A glazing unit incorporating this profile is shown in Figure 4. In Figures 5A to 5F, the installation sequence of profile 100 in glazing frame 300 can be seen, showing the rotation of the removable outer profile element 120 into inner profile element 110 and associated cam action. The cam action of outer profile element 120 allows separation via 10 degrees of rotation.

As shown in Figures 2 to 5F, outer profile element 120 is received in grooves 111 and 112 of inner profile element 110. In particular, retaining hook 125 is received in groove 111 and cam lobe 126 in groove 112. Lip 124 of leg 123 of outer profile element 120 engages with inner profile element 110 via arm 103 and thus acts as an integrated catch, preventing outer profile element 120 from falling off when installed at the top of a frame.

The arms 103 and 122 and legs 102 and 123 of inner and outer profile elements 110 and 120 together form a void 60. Ridge 117 is located in void 60 and protected from water ingress. A fixing (not shown in Figure 2 or Figure 3) in ridge 117 secures the inner profile element 110 to a window sill (not shown) and this fixing is also protected from ingress of water, thus avoiding rust etc. On installation, upstand 101 of inner profile element 110 is parallel to upstand 121 of outer profile 121 and together the two profile elements form a substantially U-shaped channel for enclosing a glazing panel.

Figure 4 shows a cross section of a glazing pane or sheet 360 in a glazing frame 300. For clarity, only the base of frame 300 is shown. The top of frame 300 has a profile which is a mirror image of the base, i.e. the top, sides and base of frame 300 all comprise profile 100.

Components identical to those shown in Figures 1 to 3 have been given the same reference numerals and only those components which differ have been given new numerals and will be described below.

-16 -Glazing frame 300 comprises inner profile element 110 and outer profile element 120. To increase the length of the frame, multiple inner profile elements 110 and multiple outer profile elements 120 may be connected together, respectively. Also shown in Figure 4 are butyl seal 385, alignment bracket 370 for aligning outer profile element 120 and connecting adjacent outer profile elements, screws 391 and 392 and E-gaskets 381, 382, 383 and 384.

Drainage holes 175 are located under alignment bracket 370. Lip 124 of outer profile element 120 acts as a vertically retaining interface which prevents unwanted removal of sheet 360 (by preventing unwanted removal of outer profile element 120) and ensures vertical alignment of outer profile element 120 during installation.

External E-gasket 381 is provided on outer profile element 120 in groove 127, internal E-gaskets 382, 383 are provided on inner profile element 110 in grooves 113 and 114, respectively, and base gasket 384 is provided in groove 115.

Polycarbonate is hygroscopic and under certain conditions such as high relative humidity, multi-wall polycarbonate glazing sheets can absorb moisture from the air and allow it to permeate to the inner flutes. It is therefore particularly preferable that the top of sheet 360 is sealed with a sealing tape (not shown).

As the temperature increases, the sealed top of the flutes encourage an increase in internal pressure and a gradual convection current. Additionally, the base of sheet 360 is preferably covered with a breathable ventilation tape (not shown) which allows equalisation of pressure via the evacuation of moisture vapour and evaporation within plenum 50.

To improve efficacy of this process, the base of sheet 360 is only partially supported and plenum 50 is created at the top and base of the sheet. As shown in Figure 4, panel support 119 does not extend along the full width of sheet 360. Panel support 119 thus allows the edge of sheet 360 to cantilever within the free space, i.e. plenum 50, allowing a cross flow of air to dissipate any gathered water via evaporation.

The internal pitched water gallery formed by the pitch on arm 122 promotes water removal thus reducing the potential of interstitial condensation within polycarbonate sheet flutes. Such water removal by the gallery also helps to reduce the accumulation of slits, the presence of which can encourage the formation of algae.

-17 -Referring to Figures 5A to 5F, after glazing panel 360 has been installed into inner profile element 110, in order to form a frame in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, outer profile element 210 is lined up as shown in Figure 5A. Retaining hook 125 and cam lobe 126 of outer profile element 120 are inserted into grooves 111 and 121 of inner profile element 110, respectively, by rotating outer profile element 120 as shown in Figures 5B to 5D. Outer profile element 120 is then further rotated and snapped into place such that lip 124 of leg 123 of outer profile element 120 engages with arm 103 of inner profile element 110 as shown in Figures 5E and 5F, thus creating a frame with a continuous profile on all sides giving visual uniformity and shadow gap. Second alignment bracket 370, visible in Figure 5F, may then be used to align outer profile element 120 and to connect adjacent outer profile elements 120 to from a frame whilst allowing thermal movement and a water-fight junction.

Figure 6 shows four parts of a thermally broken glazing frame profile 200 in cross-section, namely an inner member 230, thermally insulating member 250, outer member 240 and opposed interlocking outer profile element 120. Inner member 230, thermally insulating member 250 and outer member 240 together form thermally broken inner profile element 210. Components identical to those shown in Figures 1 to 3 have been given the same reference numerals and only those components which differ have been given new numerals and will be described below.

When mounted in a glazing unit, outer profile element 120 faces the exterior of a building and inner profile element 210 faces the interior of a building, with inner member 230 of inner profile element 210 closest to said interior.

Inner member 230 of inner profile element 210 is an upstand comprising grooves 213 and 214 which are each independently for receiving and retaining an E-gasket and grooves 231 and 232 for receiving thermally insulating member 250, which connects inner member 230 to outer member 240. Groove 214 is below groove 213, groove 231 is below groove 214 and groove 232 is below groove 231. All grooves 212, 214, 231 and 232 are located on the side of inner member 230 facing towards thermally insulating member 250. Ridge 216 for fixing screws (not shown in Figure 6) is located on inner member 230 between grooves 213 and 214.

-18 -Thermally insulating member 250 is substantially square-shaped with a hollow centre. It connects inner member 230 and outer member 240, holding said members at a predetermined distance from one another. It is made of extruded or pultruded material and is manufactured with projections at each of its four edges to accommodate inner member 230 of inner profile element 210 on one side and outer member 240 of inner profile element 210 on the other side.

Thermally insulating member 250 is preferably made of a synthetic material such as glass fibre-reinforced polyester. However, any robust, relatively rigid plastics material which is a good thermal insulator such as phenolic resin or polyamide is suitable, including low-lambda and bio-based alternatives.

Outer member 240 of inner profile element 210 comprises panel support 219 from which leg 202 extends downwardly. Arm 203 extends from leg 202. Two downwardly protruding bars 218 extend from arm 203. Bars 218 create discontinuity of profile 200 with an air gap. This void prevents water penetration via capillary action, for example from pooled water on a window sill.

Grooves 211 and 241 are under panel support 219 at opposing sides of the top of leg 202. On installation of profile 200 at the base of a glazing frame, panel support 219 will be substantially horizontal and thus in this orientation supports a portion of the base of a glazing panel.

Grooves 211 and 212 are for receiving and retaining said outer profile element 120 and are located on the outer facing side of leg 202. Grooves 241 and 242 are for receiving thermally insulating member 250 and are located on the other, i.e. the inner, side of leg 202. Outer member 240 also comprises groove 215 which is for receiving and retaining an E-gasket. Ridge 217 for fixing screws (not shown in Figure 6) is located on the top of arm 203.

The opposed interlocking geometry of outer profile element 120 with outer member 240 of inner profile element 210 and resulting interference fit ensures a secure connection such that profile 200 can be used in any orientation.

-19 -The assembled thermally broken glazing frame profile 200 is shown in Figures 7 and 8 and a glazing unit incorporating this profile is shown in Figure 9. The profile installation sequence is equivalent to that shown for profile 100 in Figures 5A to 5F.

As shown in Figures 6 to 9, outer profile element 120 is received in grooves 211 and 212 of inner profile element 210. In particular, retaining hook 125 is received in groove 211 of outer member 240 and cam lobe 226 in groove 212. Lip 124 of leg 123 of outer profile element 120 engages with arm 203 of outer member 240 of inner profile element 210 and thus acts as an integrated catch, preventing outer profile element 120 from falling off when installed at the top of a frame.

The arms 203 and 122 and legs 202 and 123 of inner and outer profile elements 110 and 120 together form a void 60. Ridge 217 is located in void 60 and protected from water ingress. A fixing (not shown in Figure 7 or Figure 8) in ridge 217 secures the inner profile element 210 to a window sill (not shown) via inner profile member 240 and this fixing is also protected from ingress of water, thus avoiding rust etc. On installation, inner member 230 of inner profile element 210 is parallel to upstand 121 of outer profile 121 and together the two profile elements form a substantially U-shaped channel for enclosing a glazing panel.

Whilst upstand 121 of outer profile element 120 is shown to be the same height as upstand 101 of inner profile element 110 in profile 100 and the same height as inner profile member 230 in profile 200, the heights of the upstands may differ from each other.

Outer profile element 120 shown in the Figures is sized to accommodate a glazing panel which is 40 mm wide. However, the relative sizes of the individual components of the profile elements 110,210 and 120 are not to be considered limiting. For example, it is considered to be within the scope of the present invention that the length of arm 122 could be reduced or increased to accommodate panels of smaller or larger width, respectively.

Once either profile 100 or 200 is installed, drainage holes 175 are hidden and protected with downstand 128. This is an aesthetic advantage and also prevents the need for an additional cover cowl. Such cover cowls are generally added to prevent ingress of wind -20 -driven rain within the profile. Downstand 128 also helps to create an area of negative pressure, assisting the drainage of water in high wind situations.

In the Figures, drainage holes 175 are shown as three slots. However, any number of slots may be used.

Figure 9 shows a cross-section of a glazing pane or sheet 460 in a glazing frame 400. For clarity, only the base of frame 400 is shown. The top of frame 400 has a profile which is a mirror image of the base, i.e. the top, sides and base of frame 400 all comprise profile 200. Components identical to those shown in Figures 6 to 8 have been given the same reference numerals and generally only those components which differ have been given new numerals and will be described below.

Glazing frame 400 comprises inner profile element 210 (labelled in Figure 9 as outer member 240, thermally insulating member 250 and inner member 230) and outer profile element 120. To increase the length of frame 400, multiple inner profile elements 210 and multiple outer profile elements 120 may be connected together, respectively. Also shown in Figure 9 are butyl seal 385, alignment bracket 370 and two screws 391 and 392. As for the non-thermally equivalent glazing frame 300 described above, in glazing frame 400, lip 124 of outer profile member 120 acts as a vertically retaining interface which prevents unwanted removal of sheet 460 (by preventing unwanted removal of outer profile element 120) and prevents over compression of sheet 460 during installation.

In correspondence with the non-thermally equivalent glazing frame 300, in glazing frame 400, external E-gasket 381 is provided on outer profile element 120 in groove 127. Internal E-gaskets 382 and 383 are provided on inner member 230 in grooves 213 and 214, respectively, and base gasket 384 is provided on outer member 240 in groove 215.

Also, as with glazing frame 300, to avoid water droplets gathering at the base of sheet 460, the base of sheet 460 is only partially supported and plenum 50 is created at the top and base of the sheet. As shown in Figure 9, panel support 219 does not extend along the full width of sheet 460. Panel support 219 thus allows the edge of sheet 460 to cantilever within the free space, i.e. plenum 50, allowing a cross flow of air to dissipate any gathered water via evaporation.

-21 -As above for non-thermally broken profile 100, the internal pitched water gallery formed by the pitch on arm 222 of profile 200 promotes water removal thus reducing the potential of interstitial condensation within polycarbonate sheet flutes. Such water removal by the gallery also helps to reduce the accumulation of slits, the presence of which can encourage the formation of algae.

Profiles 100 and 200 can be fixed via vertical or horizontal wall, with screw thread 391 being protected by outer profile element 120.

E-gaskets 381, 382, 383 and 384 are co-extruded, low profile gaskets which seal the sheet and profile, e.g. sheet 360 and non-thermally broken profile 100 or sheet 460 and thermally broken profile 200. In particular, the gaskets are co-extruded with PP (shown shaded) and TPE to flex and seal. The gaskets have a dovetail shape which has a substantially E-shaped cross-section.

Gaskets 382, 383 and 384 are pressed horizontally into place and briefly retained by the dovetail shape until sheet 360 or 460 is installed.

Gasket 381 is installed vertically after the sheet 360 or 460 and outer profile element 120 are installed. The compression of the TPE elements allow external gasket 381 to slide into place between the sheet and the profile. The PP element catches within groove 127 and prevents unwanted easy removal.

Windloads creating external negative pressure force the sheet to move laterally. This movement is limited by upstand 121 on outer profile element 120, causing the sheet to rotate about external gasket 381. The twin location of internal gaskets 382 and 383 reduces this imposed rotational movement of the sheet within the profile, i.e. sheet 360 within non-thermally broken profile 100 or sheet 460 within thermally broken profile 200.

The location of base gasket 384 is to ensure maximum compression of that gasket by the weight of sheet 360 when the profile is used at the base of the sheet.

When installed, the base of profile 100 or 200 must be securely fixed to a window sill to avoid water ingress. Removable outer profile element 120 provides secondary protection to screw 391, reducing potential for water ingress.

-22 -Referring to Figures 10 and 11, to form a frame in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, first alignment bracket 597 may be used to align inner profile element 120 and to connect adjacent inner profile elements 120 whilst allowing thermal movement and a water-tight junction. Lengths of inner profile element 110 are preferably also connected at the corners by welding or by means of adhesive or mechanical fixings such as corner bracket 598.

First alignment bracket 597 is preferably made of polypropylene. Alternative materials for the manufacture of the alignment bracket include ABS and nylon.

Second alignment bracket 370 is preferably made of polycarbonate. Alternative materials for the manufacture of the alignment bracket include metal, e.g. aluminium.

Corner bracket 598 may be made of any suitable material, for example aluminium or stainless steel. Preferably, the corner brackets are 90 degree angle brackets. Additionally or alternatively, an injection moulded polypropylene/TPE 90 degree sealing bracket may be used.

Whilst Figures 10 and 11 and the above description thereof relate to non-thermally broken profile 100, frames using thermally broken profile 200 would only differ in the replacement of inner profile element 110 with inner profile element 210.

The above described glazing frames 300 and 400 have numerous advantages. For example, the same profile is used at the top (head), jamb (sides) and bottom (base) of the glazing pane leading to a simplified design as well as simplified horizontal installation and removal of damaged sheet.

Various modifications may be made to the above-described embodiment to cater for different applications.

It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific details described herein which are given by way of example only and that various modifications and alterations are possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

-23 -CLAIMS: A profile for a frame for an architectural glazing product, said profile comprising: an inner profile element and an opposed, interlocking, removable outer profile element, wherein said inner profile element comprises first and second grooves for receiving and retaining said outer profile element and wherein said outer profile element comprises: an upstand for retaining a glazing panel; an arm protruding from said upstand, the arm having a hook and a cam lobe for engagement with the inner profile element via said first and second grooves, respectively; a downstand protruding from said arm for use in separating the outer profile element from the inner profile element; and a leg downwardly protruding from said arm, the leg having a lip at its free end for further attachment to said inner profile element, whereby when the outer profile element is received in the inner profile element, the two profile elements together form a substantially U-shaped channel.
2. The profile of claim 1, wherein said profile is a composite profile, wherein said inner profile element is comprised of an inner member, an outer member and at least one thermally insulating member, said inner member and said outer member being connected together by said at least one thermally insulating member, said at least one thermally insulating member holding said inner and outer members at a predetermined distance from each other.
3. The profile of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the outer profile element comprises one or more drainage holes and a pitched section leading to the one or more drainage holes.
4. The profile of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the outer profile element downstand extends from the upstand such that it is a continuation thereof in the opposite direction.
5. The profile of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer profile element arm extends substantially perpendicularly from the base of the upstand.
-24 - 6. The profile of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the hook and cam lobe are at the free end of the outer profile element arm.
7. The profile of any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the profile comprises an internal pitched water gallery suitable for channelling water to the drainage hole, wherein the water gallery is located between the pitched section of the outer profile element arm and the outer profile element upstand.
8. The profile of any one of claims 3 to 7, wherein the drainage holes are placed at 200 mm to 1,000 mm centres along the outer profile element.
9. The profile of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner profile element further comprises an upstand with a groove for receiving a gasket to assist in retaining the glazing panel, preferably wherein the upstand has a perpendicular protrusion for supporting the glazing panel when the profile is installed at the base of the panel.
10. The profile of claim 9, wherein the first groove for receiving and retaining the outer profile element is located on the underside of the protrusion.
11. The profile of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner profile element further comprises a leg parallel to the upstand, with the second groove for receiving and retaining the outer profile element preferably at the base of the leg.
12. The profile of claim 11, wherein an arm extends from the leg, the free end of the arm being for engagement with the lip of the outer profile element.
13. The profile of claim 12, wherein the arms and legs of the inner and outer profile elements together form a void suitable for placing a fixing to secure the inner profile element to a window sill such that the fixing is protected from ingress of water.
14. The profile of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner and outer profile elements are each independently formed of a material selected from among metal, metal alloy, polycarbonate, glass-fibre reinforced polyester (GRP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyamide, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), carbon fibre composite and glass fibre reinforced polyurethane polymer resin (PUR).
-25 - 15. The profile of any one of claims 210 14, wherein the thermally insulating member is made of a plastic material selected from among GRP, phenolic resin and polyamide.
16. A glazing frame comprising the profile as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, the glazing frame further comprising a glazing panel and optionally an external gasket and/or one or more internal gaskets.
17. The glazing frame of claim 16, wherein the glazing panel is a polycarbonate sheet, preferably a multi-walled polycarbonate sheet.
18. The glazing frame of claim 16 or claim 17, wherein the glazing frame comprises one or more substantially E-shaped gaskets co-extruded from polypropylene and thermoplastic elastomer.
19. The glazing frame of any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the glazing frame further comprises one or more alignment brackets for aligning and connecting adjacent inner profile elements and/or adjacent outer profile elements, respectively.
20. A method for secure fixing of glazing in all orientations, the method using a profile as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 15 and comprising the steps of: (i) attaching a base gasket to the inner profile element; (ii) installing the inner profile element; (iii) pressing one or more internal gaskets into grooves on the inner profile element; (iv) installing a glazing panel in the inner profile element; (v) interlocking the outer profile element with the inner profile element; and (vi) pressing an external gasket into a groove on the outer profile element.
21. The method of claim 20, wherein the method further includes the step of joining adjacent inner profile elements together with first alignment brackets.
22. The method of claim 20 or claim 21, wherein the method further includes the step of joining inner profile elements together both at the side and top of the frame and at the side and base of the frame with corner brackets.-26 -
23. The method of any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein the method further includes the step of joining adjacent outer profile elements together with second alignment brackets.