NZ546647A - An improved skylight panel - Google Patents

Abstract

A skylight panel for connecting between sheeting panels is disclosed. The skylight panel includes a central portion (10), and first and second edges. Each edge includes an upper portion (25) that extends away from the central portion, and a lower portion (27) that extends down and away from the central portion. The upper and lower portions define a channel that receives and engages an edge of the sheeting panels. The lower portion of the first edge, lower portion of the second edge, and the central portion are symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal axis of the opening into which the skylight panel engages.

Description

4 6647 Patent Form No. 5 NEW ZEALAND Patents Act 1953 COMPLETE SPECIFICATION TITLE: AN IMPROVED SKYLIGHT PANEL We Stratco (Australia) Pty Limited, an Australian company, of 125 Cavan Road, Gepps Cross, South Australia, 5094, Australia, do hereby declare the invention, for which we pray that a patent may be granted to us, and the method by which it is to be performed, to be particularly described in and by the following statement: IPONZ 20 APR 2006 An Improved Skylight Panel This application claims priority from Australian Patent Application No. 2005901989 filed on 21 April 2005, the contents of which are to be taken as incorporated herein by this reference.

Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an improved skylight panel, and more particularly to an improved skylight panel of the type arranged to be connected between two sheeting panels.

Background of the Invention Sheeting panels are commonly used to form the cover or roof on many different structures. Although such sheeting panels come in a variety of different profiles and configurations, it quite common for such panels to have opposed "male" and "female" longitudinal edges. Such an arrangement enables adjacent sheets to be connected together by overlapping the respective "male" and "female" edges of adjacent sheeting panels and by then securing them together using suitable fasteners.

Some forms of such sheeting panels are arranged to interlock together along their longitudinal edges. This "interlocking" of the adjacent sheeting panels helps the sheeting panels to accommodate greater loads. It may also help to improve the water tightness of the resulting joints between adjacent sheeting panels and to improve the aesthetic appeal of the underside of the completed roof.

In many roofing applications, eg verandahs and pergolas, it is desirable to include a skylight to improve the amount of natural light to the area below the roof. To this end, skylight panels are commonly included in many roofing applications.

When skylight panels are included in a roofing application, the connection between each skylight panel and its adjacent sheeting panel must be such as to prevent water leaking through the roof. It is also desirable for the inclusion of the skylight panel not be detrimental to the overall aesthetic appeal of the underside of the completed roof. From an installation point of view, it is desirable for the skylight panel to be connected to the adjacent sheeting panels in a simple manner.

The respective orientation of the various sheeting panels is normally maintained consistently across the width of the roofing structure despite the inclusion of any skylight panels. Accordingly, to accommodate the "male" and "female" edges of the adjacent sheeting panels, skylight panels have either had edges of different configurations (e.g. an asymmetrical panel) or have been used in conjunction 10 with some form of adaptors) to connect a symmetrical skylight panel to the edges of the adjacent sheeting panels.

The method used to secure such prior art skylight panels to adjacent sheeting panels and to the roofing structure itself has varied depending on factors such 15 as the configuration of the skylight panel and the material from which it is made.

The present invention seeks to provide an improved form of skylight panel.

The discussion of the background to the invention herein is included to explain 20 the context of the invention. This is not to be taken as an admission that any of the material referred to was published, known or part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of this application.

Summary of the Invention In general terms, the invention provides a skylight panel for connection between two sheeting panels. The skylight panel includes a central portion, a first edge and an opposed second edge. The first and second edges being arranged to each define a channel for receiving a portion of an adjacent sheeting panel. 30 Each channel of the skylight panel is shaped to establish a connection with the edge of the adjacent sheeting panel that serves to hold the skylight panel thereto.

C:\Documents and Settings\djupp\Local Settings\Temporary Internet Files\OLKBD\lmproved skylight panel - filed April 2006.doc According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a skylight panel for connection between sheeting panels, said sheeting panels being separated so as to define at a widest point of separation therebetween an opening, said skylight panel including a central portion and first and second 5 edges, each of said first and second edges including an upper portion extending away from said central portion and a lower portion extending from and generally downwardly of said central portion, said upper and lower portions defining a channel for receiving a portion of an edge of a sheeting panel, said upper and lower portions of the skylight panel being resiliency deformable so as to allow 10 the portion of the edge of the sheeting panel to be received in the channel and to then engage there against thereby interconnecting said skylight panel to the sheeting panel, and wherein the lower portion of the first edge, central portion and the lower portion of the second edge are symmetrical with respect to a longitudinal central axis of said opening.

The upper and lower portions of the respective first and second edges of the skylight panel are resiliently deformable and are arranged so that they are caused to deflect as the portion of the edge of the sheeting panel is moved into the channel. Once the edge of the sheeting panel is in the channel the resilient 20 nature of the upper and lower portions of the skylight panel will cause them to attempt to return to their non-deflected position and will thus engage against the sheeting panel so as to interconnect the skylight panel to the sheeting panel.

It is preferred that the interconnection between the skylight panel and the 25 connected sheeting panel is such as to hold at least the lower portion of the skylight panel against the connected sheeting panel. Preferably, the upper portion is also held against the connected sheeting panel. In this manner, respective "seals" are provided between the skylight panel and the connected sheeting panel. Such "seals" are arranged to prevent moisture penetration 30 between the skylight panel and the connected sheeting panel.

In accordance with a particularly preferred embodiment, the upper and lower portions of each edge of the skylight panel are arranged so that, in use, a three point connection is established between the edge of the skylight panel and the associated edge of the connected sheeting panel. Preferably, one point of connection occurs on a first side of the edge of the sheeting panel and two points of connection occur on a second side of the edge of the sheeting panel.

The points of connection on the second side of the edge of the sheeting panel are located so as to establish counter acting forces within the edge of skylight panel and the connected sheeting panel so as to hold the edge of the skylight panel to the connected sheeting panel.

In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, the upper portion of each edge of the skylight panel includes a lip for engaging against an outer side of the edge of the sheeting panel located within the channel. The lower portion includes first and second parts each arranged to engage against an inner side of the edge of the sheeting panel located within the channel.

The lower portion of the skylight panel is preferably configured to form a trough/guttering for receiving moisture formed in the channel.

Preferably, the engagement between each of the first and second parts of the 20 lower portion of the skylight panel against the inner side of the edge of the sheeting panel located within the respective channel establishes respective seals to prevent moisture from passing between the lower portion of the skylight panel and the inner side of the edge of the sheeting panel.

Preferably, the lip of the skylight panel forms a seal with an outer side of the edge of the sheeting panel so as to prevent moisture from passing between the skylight panel and the connected sheeting panel.

Preferably, the connection between the skylight panel and the adjacent sheeting 30 panels is such as to allow for differential expansion rates of the materials from which the skylight panel and the sheeting panels are made.

Preferably, the central portion of the skylight panel is domed shaped. The dome shape is advantageous as it avoids debris build-up on the top surface thereof.

A gap W is preferably defined between an end of the lip of the upper portion and an end of the first part of the lower portion of each of the first and second edges of the skylight panel. The dimension of the gap W is controlled during manufacture so that at least one of the upper or lower portions is caused to 5 resiliency deflect when the correctly sized sheeting panel is moved into the channel.

The skylight panel is preferably made of a resiliency flexible material such as a polycarbonate material. The material is preferably UV stabilised. The sheeting 10 panel is preferably made of steel and may have coloured surfaces.

A skylight panel in accordance with an embodiment of the invention may be interconnected between sheeting panels of the type having a male edge and an opposed female edge. The male and female edges of each sheeting panel 15 being arranged so that the female edge of a first sheeting panel can be located over the male edge of an adjacent second sheeting panel and locked thereto. When a skylight panel in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is connected between sheeting panels of this type, one edge of the skylight panel will be connected to a male edge of a first sheeting panel and the other edge of 20 the skylight panel will be connected to a female edge of the second sheeting panel.

In accordance with one embodiment, the first and second opposed edges of said skylight panel are arranged so that in use either of a male or female edge 25 of an adjacent sheeting panel can be received in the respective channel of each edge of the skylight panel.

In accordance with an alternative embodiment of the invention, one edge of the skylight panel is arranged to engage with a male edge of a sheeting panel and 30 the other edge is arranged to engage with a female edge of a sheeting panel.

Description of the Drawings C:\Documents and Settings\djupp\Local SettingsYTemporary Internet Files\OLKBD\lmproved skylight panel - filed April 2006.doc Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a skylight panel in accordance with a first 5 embodiment of the invention; Figure 2 is an end view of the skylight panel shown in Figure 1; Figure 2A is an enlarged version of Figure 2; Figure 3 illustrates the skylight panel of Figure 1 interlocked between a pair of sheeting panels; Figure 3A illustrates an end view of the arrangement shown in Figure 3; Figure 4A is a cross sectional view of a first edge of the skylight panel shown in Figure 1 connected to a male edge of one of the sheeting panels shown in Figure 3; Figure 4B is a cross sectional view of a second edge of the skylight panel shown in Figure 1 connected to a female edge of one of the sheeting panels shown in Figure 3; Figure 5A is a view similar to Figure 4A and additionally shows various mating 25 points and parameters of the skylight panel; Figure 5B is a view similar to Figure 4B and additionally shows various mating points and parameters of the skylight panel; Figure 6 is a cross sectional view illustrating the "rolling" attachment of a first edge of the skylight panel shown in Figure 1 to an male locking edge of the sheeting panel shown in Figure 3; C:\Documents and Settings\djupp\Local Settings\Temporary Internet Files\OLKBD\lmproved skylight panel - filed April 2006.doc Figures 7 A to 7D illustrate the steps involved in the "rolling" attachment of the skylight panel shown in Figure 1 to a roofing structure; Figure 8 illustrates schematically the "sliding" method attachment of the skylight 5 panel shown in Figure 1 to a roofing structure; Figures 8A to 8C illustrate the steps involved in the "sliding" method attachment of the skylight panel shown in Figure 1 to a roofing structure; Figure 9 is an end view of a skylight panel in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention; Figure 10 is a cross section view showing the connection of the skylight panel of Figure 9 between adjacent sheeting panels. This Figure also illustrates various 15 mating points and parameters of the skylight panel; and Figure 10A is similar to Figure 10 but illustrates the use of fasteners through point F to further secure the skylight panel to the adjacent sheeting panels.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments Figure 1 illustrates a skylight panel 10 in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention. The skylight panel 10 includes a central portion 12 and first and second opposed longitudinal edges 14, 16. Skylight panel 10 is made from a 25 plastics material and is resiliency deformable.

In use, the skylight panel 10 is arranged to be interconnected between a pair of sheeting panels 20. Such an arrangement is shown in Figures 3 and 3A. As illustrated, each sheeting panel 20 includes a male edge 22 and a female edge 30 24. The illustrated sheeting panels 20 are of the type that the female edge 24 of one sheeting panel 20 can be engaged over the male edge 22 of an adjacent sheeting panel 20 when they are located side by side. This engagement is achieved by applying sufficient force to elastically deform the respective edges C:\Documents and Settings\djupp\Local Settings\Temporary Internet Files\OLKBD\lmproved skylight panel - filed April 2006.doc 22, 24 of the adjacent sheets 20. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that once the male edge 22 is properly located within the female edge 24 and the force is removed, the respective edges 22, 24 will return to their original configuration, thereby engaging with one another so as to interlock together. In 5 this manner, adjacent sheeting panels 20 can be interlocked to form a roof of a structure. It will of course be understood that the skylight panel 10 may be reconfigured to connect to sheeting panels of a different profile to that illustrated.

As best illustrated in Figure 3, where the roofing structure is to be attached to a wall or other face of a building, a back channel 40 is first connected to the wall or face (not shown). The back channel 40 is arranged to receive an end portion 20a of each of the sheeting panels 20. A cross beam 50, as illustrated in Figure 3A, provides support for a second end 20b of each sheeting panel 20.

If the roofing structure is particularly wide, additional cross beams (not illustrated) may need to be provided to properly support the sheeting panels 20. Fasteners are used to secure the sheeting panels 20 to each of the back channel 40 and the cross beam 50.

As shown in Figures 3 and 3A, the skylight panel 10 is configured so that it can be connected between first and second sheeting panels 20 without the use of an adaptor. Accordingly, the skylight panel 10 is configured so that it can connect with the male edge 22 of the first sheeting panel 20 and the female edge 24 of the second sheeting panel 20.

Figure 4A better illustrates the connection between the first edge 14 of the skylight panel 10 and the male edge 22 of the first sheeting panel 20. Figure 4B illustrates the connection between the second edge 16 of the skylight panel 10 and the female edge 24 of the second sheeting panel 20.

The first edge 14 of the skylight 10 includes an upper portion 25 and a lower portion 27. The upper portion 25 extends generally outwardly of the central portion 12 and has a small downwardly directed step S formed therein. The C:\Documents and Settings\djupp\Local Settings\Temporary Internet FiIes\OLKBD\lmproved skylight panel - filed April 2006.doc small downwardly directed step S is provided to facilitate a better connection between the first edge 14 of the skylight panel 10 and the male edge 22 of an adjacent sheeting panel 20. However, in an alternative embodiment of the invention, step S could be excluded and thus the skylight panel 10 of that 5 embodiment would be symmetrical about its longitudinal axis X-X.

As shown in Figure 4A, the lower portion 27 of the first edge 14 extends generally downwardly of the central portion 12. The upper and lower portions 25, 27 of the first edge 14 define a channel 28 for receiving a portion of either of 10 the female or the male edge 22, 24 of a sheeting panel 20.

The upper portion 25 of the skylight panel 10 ends with a lip 25a for mating against an outer side of either the male edge 22 or the outer side of the female edge 24 of the sheeting panel 20. Figure 4A illustrates the mating of the lip 25a 15 with the outer side 22a of the male edge 22 of the sheeting panel 20 and Figure 4B illustrates the mating of the lip 25a with the outer side 24a of the female edge 24.

The lower portion 27 of the skylight panel 10 extends into first and second parts 20 29, 31 for mating against an inner side 22b of the male edge 22 of the sheeting panel 20 (Figure 4A) or an inner side 24b of female edge 24 of the sheeting panel 20 (Figure 4B).

The lower portion 27 and the first part 29 of each edge 14, 16 form a 25 trough/guttering. This trough is arranged to receive any moisture developed within the channel 28 and to direct that moisture to the guttering of the roofing structure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the roofing structure will be sloped so as to direct water off the sheeting panels 20 and into a guttering system.

The end portions of the lip 25a, first part 29 and second part 31 are rounded/bulbed to enhance the mated connection between the mate points A, B and C (as shown in Figures 5A and 5B) of each edge 14, 16 of the skylight intellectual property office of n.z. - 7 JUN 2007 RECEIVED panel 10 with the respective inner and outer sides of the male and female edges 22, 24 of the adjacent sheeting panels 20.

A gap W is defined between the end of the lip 25a and the end of the first part 5 29 of the lower portion 27 of the skylight panel 10. The gap W is controlled so that the upper and/or lower portions 25, 27 are caused to deflect when the edge 22, 24 of the sheeting panel 20 is moved into the channel 28. Thus, a flexible "spring action" connection is formed between each side edge 14, 16 of the skylight panel 10 and the male or female edge 22, 24 of the adjacent sheeting 10 panel 20. More particularly, and as schematically illustrated by the arrows in Figures 5A and 5B, mating point A is arranged to lever around point D of the upper portion 25 and mating points B and C are arranged to lever around point E of the lower portion 27.

Mating points A, B and C establish a three point interference connection with the adjacent sheeting panel 20 when it is located within the channel 28. The resiliently deformable upper and lower portions 25, 27 and their engagement with the male edge 22 of the sheeting panel 20 establish counter acting forces within the interconnected skylight panel 10 and sheeting panel 20 so as to hold 20 the skylight panel 10 to the edge of the adjacent sheeting panel 20. Such an arrangement provides a flexible and neat connection between each skylight panel 10 and its adjacent sheeting panels 20. It further provides a three point seal (described in more detail below) from external moisture penetration between each skylight panel 10 and each of the respective adjacent sheeting 25 panels 20. The counter acting forces serve to cause flexure of the skylight panel 10 helping it to conform to the profile of the adjacent sheeting panel 20. The ability to conform the skylight panel 10 to the configuration of the adjacent sheeting panels 20 is important due to the slight dimensional variations that inevitably occur in the sheeting panels 20 during the manufacturing process and 30 also because of slight inaccuracies in the alignment of the sheeting panels 20 between which the skylight panel 10 is to be located. Slight dimensional variations in the sheeting panels 20 are to be expected particularly when the sheeting panels 20 are manufactured from high tensile steel.

C:\Documents and Settings\djupp\Local SettingsMemporary Internet Files\OLKBD\lmproved skylight panel - filed April 2006.doc As mentioned above, the end portions of the lip 25a, first part 29 and second part 31 are rounded to enhance the mated connection between the mate points A, B and C. The rounded ends also control the amount of contact between the 5 skylight panel 10 and the adjacent sheeting panels 20 thereby minimising any heat transmission therebetween.

With the exception of the step S, the second edge 16 of the skylight panel 10 is a mirror image to the first edge 14. Accordingly, a detailed description of the 10 second edge 16 will not be provided.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that Figures 4A, 4B, 5A and 5B are cross-sectional views depicting the interconnection between' the skylight panel 10 and respective first and second sheeting panels 20. Thus, although 15 Figure 5A illustrates mating points A, B and C, such mating points ideally extend along the entire length of each skylight panel 10 so that, for example, the lip 25a of the first edge 14 forms a seal at mating point A with the outer side of the male edge 22 along the entire length of the respective sheeting panel 20. The reference to the term "mating point" should thus be understood to also 20 include within its scope a "zone or zones" where mating occurs.

Similarly, seals are formed between the skylight panel 10 and each of the adjacent sheeting panels 20 at points B and C. Thus, a three point seal is effectively provided between each skylight panel 10 and its adjacent sheeting 25 panels 20 to prevent moisture penetration.

The skylight panel 10 is preferably moulded from a resiliently flexible material such as a polycarbonate material. It is preferably UV stabilised and may be manufactured in a number of different colours to meet customer demand. It is 30 envisaged that the skylight panel 10 would have coverage when assembled between adjacent sheeting panels 20 of approximately 250 mm. The gauge of the skylight panel 10 is controlled across the profile to increase the thickness at high stress zones and decrease the thickness at lower stress zones.

C:\Documents and Settings\djupp\Local SettingsMemporary Internet Files\OLKBD\lmproved skylight panel - filed April 2006.doc The skylight panel 10 can be secured into a roofing structure between first and second sheeting panels 20 in accordance with two different basic methods. The method used will generally depend on the nature of the roofing structure 5 (e.g. a flat roof structure or a gable roof structure) being constructed.

Figures 7 A to 7D illustrate the steps for a "roll and lock" method of installation which is particularly useful when installing the skylight panel 10 in a gable roofing application. As illustrated in Figure 7A, a first sheeting panel 20 is 10 located into the back channel (not shown) and secured to the channel 40 and beam 50 using appropriate fasteners. As shown in Figure 7B, a first edge 14 of the skylight panel 10 is then "rolled" onto the exposed male or female edge 22, 24 of the adjacent sheeting panel 20. It will be appreciated that as the first edge 14 is "rolled" onto male or female edge 22, 24 of the sheeting panel 20, the 15 upper and lower portions 25, 27 of the edge 14 will be deflected so that the male or female edge 22, 24 can be received in the channel 28. An example of this "rolling" attachment is illustrated in Figure 6.

Once the male or female edge 22, 24 is received in the channel 28, the upper 20 and lower portions 25, 27 of the skylight panel 10 try to return to their non-deflected position causing them to engage against the male or female edge 22, 24 in the channel 28.

As depicted in Figure 7C, a second sheeting panel 20 is then attached to the 25 second edge 16 of the skylight panel 10 using a similar rolling action. Finally, as shown in Figure 7D, the skylight panel 10 and the second sheeting panel 20 are then slid into the back channel 40. The second sheeting panel 20 is then secured to the back channel 40 and beam 50 using appropriate fasteners.

In most applications it will not be necessary to further secure the skylight panel 10 to the adjacent sheeting panels 20. However, if desired, screws may be installed along the length of the skylight panel 10 at point F. A slight groove in C:\Documents and Settings\djupp\Local SettingsYTemporary Internet Files\OLKBD\lmproved skylight panel - filed April 2006.doc the skylight panel 10 is formed along point F so as to indicate the appropriate fixing point to the installer.

An alternative method of attaching the skylight panel 10 to adjacent sheeting 5 panels 20 is known as the "slide and lock" method. In accordance with this method, a first sheeting panel 20 (Figure 8A) is secured into the back channel (not shown) and attached to the beam 50 using appropriate fasteners. A second sheeting panel 20 is then attached, as illustrated in Figure 8B, into the back channel and secured to the beam 50 using appropriate fasteners. The spacing between the adjacent sheeting panels 20 is such the male edge 22 of the first sheeting panel 20 can be located within the channel 28 formed in the first side edge 14 of the skylight panel 10 and the female edge 24 of the second sheeting panel 20 can be located within the channel 28 formed in the second side edge 16 of the skylight panel 10.

In order for the male or female edge 22, 24 to be received in the respective channel 28, some deformation of the respective upper and lower portions 25, 27 will occur.

Once the respective male and female edges 22, 24 of the sheeting panels 20 are located within the respective channels 28 of the skylight panel 10, the skylight panel 10 is slid towards the back channel until the first end 20a is located therewithin. Such an arrangement is depicted in Figure 3A.

Figure 3A also depicts how the skylight panel 10 adopts a domed configuration. This domed configuration provides a spring pressure connection into the back channel 40 and thus helps to retain the skylight panel 10 is position within the roofing structure.

The domed configuration of the skylight panel 10 when installed is advantageous as it avoids debris build-up on the top of the skylight panel 10. As a result, the skylight panel 10 is self-cleaning and retains maximum light transmission ability. The domed configuration also provides an aesthetic C:\Documents and Settings\djupp\Local SettingsMemporary Internet Files\OLKBD\lmproved skylight panel - filed April 2006.doc uniform light transmission as opposed to other products that peak at the ridge. Peaks can create visible lines along the length of the skylight panel and may case the profile to become warped at certain connection points. Additionally, it will be appreciated that doming provides some flexibility in the coverage of the 5 skylight panel 10 and therefore allows for a small tolerance in the width direction to account for slight variations in roof sheet squareness during installation.

Each edge of the skylight panel 10 is arranged to be connected to either a male or female edge of an adjacent sheeting panel. Accordingly, adaptors are not 10 required to enable connection. This reduces both the material and installation costs of the skylight panel 10 in a roofing structure.

Figures 9 and 10 illustrate a skylight panel 100 in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention. It will immediately be appreciated that unlike the 15 skylight panel 10 shown in Figures 1 to 8, the skylight panel 100 is asymmetrical. The skylight panel 100 is made from a plastics material and is resiliently deformable.

The skylight panel 100 includes a central portion 112 and first and second 20 opposed edges 114, 116. The first edge 114 is arranged to receive the male edge 22 of a first sheeting panel 20 and the second edge 116 is arranged to receive the female edge 24 of a second sheeting panel 20.

The first edge 114 includes an upper portion 125 and a lower portion 127. The 25 upper portion 125 extends generally outwardly of the central portion 112, whilst the lower portion 127 extends generally downwardly of the central portion 112. The upper and lower portions 125, 127 define a channel 128 for receiving the male edge 122 of a sheeting panel 20.

The upper portion 125 of the first edge 114 ends with an outer lip 125a for mating against an outer side 22a of the male edge 22. The upper portion 125 also includes an inner lip 125c. The outer lip 125a and the inner lip 125c define C:\Documents and Settings\djupp\Local SettingsMemporary Internet Files\OLKBD\lmproved skylight panel - filed April 2006.doc an upper track 128a for receiving an upper part of the male edge 22 of the adjacent sheeting panel 20.

The lower portion 127 of the first edge 122 extends into first and second parts 5 129, 131 for mating against and inner side 22b of the male edge 22 of the sheeting panel 20.

The lower portion 127 and the first part 129 form a trough. This trough is arranged to receive any moisture developed within the channel 128 and to 10 direct that moisture to the guttering of the roofing structure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the roofing structure will be sloped so as to direct water off the sheeting panels 20 and into a guttering system.

Figure 10 illustrates the mating points A, B and C between the first edge 114 of 15 the skylight panel 100 and the male edge 22 of the adjacent sheeting panel 20. Figure 10 also illustrates the gap W between the end of the lip 125a and the end of the first part 129 of the lower portion 127. The gap W is controlled so that the upper and/or lower portions 125, 127 are caused to deflect when the edge 22 of the sheeting panel 20 is moved into the channel 128. Thus, a 20 flexible "spring action" connection is formed between the side edge 114 of the skylight panel 100 and the male edge 22 of the adjacent sheeting panel 20. Mating points A, B and C and gap W operate in a similar manner to the mating points A, B and C and gap W as described above with reference to the skylight panel 10.

The second edge 116 includes an upper portion 225 and a lower portion 227. The upper portion 225 extends generally outwardly of the central portion 112, whilst the lower portion 227 extends generally downwardly of the central portion 112. The upper and lower portions 225, 227 define a channel 228 for receiving 30 a female edge 24 of the adjacent sheeting panel 20.

C:\Documerits arid Settings\djupp\Local SettingsMemporary Internet Files\OLKBD\lmproved skylight panel - filed April 2006.doc The upper portion 225 of the second edge 116 ends with an outer lip 225a for mating against an outer side 24a of the female edge 24 of the sheeting panel 20.

The lower portion 227 of the second edge 116 extends into first and second parts 229, 231 each for mating against and inner side 24b of the female edge 24 of the sheeting panel 20.

The upper portion 229a of the first part 229 is C-shaped so that in use, an upper 10 part of the female edge 24 of the sheeting panel 20 fits over the upper portion 229a of the first part 229.

The lower portion 227 and the first part 229 form a trough. This trough is arranged to receive any moisture developed within the channel 228 and to 15 direct that moisture to the guttering of the roofing structure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the roofing structure will be sloped so as to direct water off the sheeting panels 20 and into a guttering system.

Figure 10 also illustrates the mating points A, B and C between the second 20 edge 116 of the skylight panel 100 and the male edge 22 of the sheeting panel 20. Figure 10 also illustrates the gap W between the end of the lip 225a and the end of the first part 229 of the lower portion 227. The gap W is controlled so that the upper and/or lower portions 225, 227 are caused to deflect when the edge 22, 24 of the sheeting panel 20 is moved into the channel 228. Thus, a 25 flexible "spring action" connection is formed between the edge 116 of the skylight panel 100 and the female edge 24 of the adjacent sheeting panel 20. Mating points A, B and C and gap W of the second edge 116 of the skylight panel 100 operate in a similar manner to the mating points A, B and C and gap W as described above with reference to the skylight panel 10.

In most applications, the interconnection between the first and second ends 114, 116 of the skylight panel 100 and the adjacent sheeting panels 100 will be sufficient to maintain the skylight panel 100 in position within the roofing C:\Documents and Settings\djupp\Local SettingsMemporary Internet Files\OLKBD\lmproved skylight panel - filed April 2006.doc structure. However, if desired, fasteners along the length of the panel 100, through point F, can be used to further secure the skylight panel 100 to the adjacent sheeting panels 20.

As with the skylight panel 10, the skylight panel 100 adopts a domed configuration. The advantages of such a domed configuration have previously been explained in relation to the skylight panel 10.

It will be appreciated that despite the different configurations of the skylight 10 panels 10,100 shown respectively in Figures 1 and 9, both skylight panels 10, 100 are arranged to be connected between adjacent sheeting panels 20 without the use of any form of adaptor. Additionally, both skylight panels 10, 100 are arranged to provide a three point connection between each edge and the adjacent sheeting panel.

It will also be appreciated that despite the asymmetrical nature of the skylight panels 10, 100, when they are installed between adjacent sheeting panels 20 and viewed from underneath, they appear to be symmetrical thus enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the underside of the roofing structure.

The skylight panels 10, 100 are also advantageous because they are configured so they can be slid into position between adjacent sheeting panels 20. Furthermore, they are sized so that a pre-existing skylight arrangement can be removed from a roofing structure and be replaced with a skylight panel 10, 25 100.

The described embodiments of the invention are advantageous because they accommodate the different expansion rates of the materials of the skylight panel and the sheeting panels.

The described embodiments are advantageous because they enable easy installation, neat connection and maximise light transmission to the underside of the roofing structure. Additionally, the skylight panel creates a water tight C:\Documents and Settings\djupp\Local SettingsMemporary Internet Files\OLKBD\lmproved skylight panel - filed April 2006.doc connection with the adjacent sheeting panels and avoids any visible fixing therebetween when viewed from the underside. The skylight panels are made from a plastics material and are integrally moulded.

Although the preceding description describes the skylight panel 10, 100 being used in roofing type applications, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the skylight panel 10, 100 may be used in other applications. The present invention is not intended to be limited to roofing type applications.

The embodiments have been described by way of example only and modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention are envisaged.

C:\Documents and Settings\djupp\Local SettingsMemporary Internet Files\OLKBD\lmproved skylight panel - filed April 2006.doc

Claims (22)

-20- The Claims defining the Invention are as follows:

1. A skylight panel for connection between sheeting panels, said sheeting panels being separated so as to define at a widest point of separation 5 therebetween an opening, said skylight panel including a central portion and first and second edges, each of said first and second edges including an upper portion extending away from said central portion and a lower portion extending from and generally downwardly of said central portion, said upper and lower portions defining a channel for receiving a portion of an edge of a sheeting 10 panel, said upper and lower portions of the skylight panel being resiliently deformable so as to allow the portion of the edge of the sheeting panel to be received in the channel and to then engage there against thereby interconnecting said skylight panel to the sheeting panel, and wherein the lower portion of the first edge, central portion and the lower portion of the second 15 edge are symmetrical with respect to a longitudinal central axis of said opening.

2. A skylight panel according to claim 1 wherein in use the upper and lower portions of the respective first and second edges of the skylight panel are arranged so as to deflect as the portion of the edge of the sheeting panel is 20 moved into the respective channel and wherein once the edge of the sheeting panel is located in the channel the resilient nature of the upper and lower portions of the skylight panel causes them to engage against the sheeting panel so as to interconnect the skylight panel to the sheeting panel. 25

3. A skylight panel according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein in use the interconnection between the skylight panel and the connected sheeting panel is such as to hold at least the lower portion of each of the first and second edges against the interconnected sheeting panel. 30

4. A skylight panel according to claim 3 wherein in use the upper portion of each of the first and second edges is held against the interconnected sheeting panel. -21 -

5. A skylight panel according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the upper and lower portions of each edge of the skylight panel are arranged so that, in use, a three point connection is established between the edge of the skylight panel and the edge of the interconnected sheeting panel. 5

6. A skylight panel according to claim 5 wherein one point of connection occurs on a first side of the edge of the sheeting panel and two points of connection occur on a second side of the edge of the sheeting panel. 10

7. A skylight panel according to claim 6 wherein the points of connection on the second side of the edge of the sheeting panel are located so as to establish counter acting forces within the edge of skylight panel and the connected sheeting panel so as to hold the edge of the skylight panel to the connected sheeting panel. 15 20

8. A skylight panel according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the upper portion of each edge of the skylight panel includes a lip for engaging against an outer side of the edge of the sheeting panel located within the channel.

9. A skylight panel according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the lower portion of each of the first and second edges is configured to form a trough/guttering for receiving moisture formed in the channel. 25

10. A skylight panel according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the lower portion of each of the first and second edges further includes first and second parts each arranged to engage against an inner side of the edge of the sheeting panel located within the channel. 30

11. A skylight panel according to claim 10 wherein in use the engagement between each of the first and second parts of the lower portion of each of the first and second edges against the inner side of the edge of the sheeting panel located within the respective channel establishes respective seals to prevent intellectual property office of n.z. - 7 JUN 2007 RECEIVED -22- moisture from passing between the lower portion of the skylight panel and the inner side of the edge of the sheeting panel.

12. A skylight panel according to claim 8 or claims 9 to 11 when dependent 5 on claim 8 wherein in use the lip forms a seal with an outer side of the edge of the sheeting panel so as to prevent moisture from passing between the skylight panel and the connected sheeting panel.

13. A skylight panel according to any one of the preceding claims wherein in 10 use the interconnection between the skylight panel and the sheeting panels is such as to allow for differential expansion rates of the materials from which the skylight panel and the sheeting panels are made.

14. A skylight panel according to any one of the preceding claims wherein 15 the central portion of the skylight panel is domed shaped.

15. A skylight panel according to claim 8 or claims 9 and 10 when dependent on claim 8 wherein a gap W is defined between an end of the lip of the upper portion and an end of the first part of the lower portion of each of the first and 20 second edges and wherein the dimension of the gap W is controlled during manufacture of the panel so that in use at least one of the upper or lower portions of each of the first and second edges is caused to resiliently deflect when the sheeting panel is moved into the channel. 25

16. A skylight panel according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the first and second edges are of a symmetrical configuration.

17. A skylight panel according to any one of the preceding claims made of a resiliently flexible material. 30

18. A skylight panel according to claim 17 wherein the material is UV stablilised. intellectual property office of n.2. - 7 JUN 2007 RECEIVED -23-

19. A structure including at least one skylight panel according to any one of the preceding claims and at least two sheeting panels, said sheeting panels being of the type having a male edge and an opposed female edge, the male and female edges of each sheeting panel being arranged so that the female 5 edge of a first sheeting panel can be located over the male edge of an adjacent second sheeting panel and locked thereto.

20. A kit including at least one skylight panel according to any one of claims 1 to 18 and a plurality of sheeting panels, said sheeting panels being of the type 10 having a male edge and an opposed female edge, the male and female edges of each sheeting panel being arranged so that the female edge of a first sheeting panel can be located over the male edge of an adjacent second sheeting panel and locked thereto, wherein the skylight panel is connected between first and second of said plurality of sheeting panels. 15

21. A skylight panel substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

22. A structure substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the 20 accompanying drawings. END OF CLAIMS 25 intellectual property office of n.z. -1 JUN 2007 RECEIVED