Field of application
[0001] The present invention refers to an exterior door or window with exposed wood and
to a method for the production thereof, according to the preamble of the respective
independent claims.
[0002] The present door or window and method are inserted in general in the field of production
of windows, doors, French doors i.e. doors or windows variously composed also by top
frame pane or bottom frame pane units combined together with each other on a same
frame.
State of the art
[0003] According to the conventional technique closest to the present invention, the exterior
doors or windows have a fixed frame rigidly anchored to the wall of a building, which
supports a wing of fixed type or movable type, provided with a usually multi-pane
glass panel separated by double glazing.
[0004] The fixed frame performs a double function, i.e. the function of fixing to the wall,
usually for example by means of brackets with projections inserted in the wall and
fixed with screws to the frame, and the function of facing the wing by means of suitable
shaped parts thereof. For example, in the case of movable wing, the frame has a projecting
shaped portion intended to receive in abutment, with the interposition of a seal,
the support frame of the glass panel of the movable wing. In the case of fixed wing,
the frame has a shaped portion, usually for example step-like for defining a seat
adapted to receive the fixed wing, obtained for example with the single glass panel.
[0005] In the frequent movable wing case, also the fittings must be arranged on the frame
for the support of the wing, i.e. for its movement for example with tilt/turn hinges,
balanced hinges, top-hung hinges in accordance with the known technical terminology
(hereinbelow indicated with the expression "window hinged at the upper part"), and
the strikers for the closure bolts must be arranged.
[0006] In addition, the frame at the wing must resist the stresses transmitted by the latter.
[0007] At the same time the frame must resist the thermal stresses and the moisture transmitted
by the outside environment.
[0008] The aforesaid multiple functions, to which the frame must be subjected, oblige the
latter to have a high mechanical strength for fixing to the wall and for supporting
the fittings for the movement and closure of the wing, to arrange an internal part
in exposed wood for aesthetic reasons, as well as arrange wood that is easily workable
for obtaining all the necessary grooves aimed to obtain the coupling of the frame
thus shaped with the wing, whether this is of movable or fixed type, with limited
production costs.
[0009] Given the different needs, the doors or windows of known type are in practice unable
to optimize all the different requirements and generally provide for the production
of frames made of materials with mechanical strength that is not particularly high,
shaped in order to simultaneously act as structural elements and abutments for the
wings. Such frames are also provided with sufficiently wide sections in order to compensate
for the aforesaid poor mechanical characteristics.
[0010] One example of an exterior door or window of known type, which has the aforesaid
drawbacks, is described in the German utility model
DE 202004014618; here, the door or window comprises a frame formed by a shaped frame susceptible
to be fixed to the wall of a building and provided with four or more shaped planks
of wood, not particularly mechanically strong, connected together at the ends by means
of first fastening means. In addition, the aforesaid door or window comprises a finishing
frame formed by multiple profiles of wood of the same type as those that make up the
shaped frame, each fixed on a corresponding plank of the shaped frame, and at least
one fixed and/or movable wing mounted on the shaped frame and mechanically associated
with the finishing frame.
[0011] The door or window of known type described in this utility model
DE 202004014618 in practice has further drawbacks in addition to those mentioned above.
[0012] A further drawback of the aforesaid door or window of known type consists of the
fact that the shaped frame is a costly component to be produced and that it requires
milling processing, since its wood planks must be shaped to abut against a support
frame of the movable wing.
[0013] A further drawback of the aforesaid door or window of known type consists of the
fact that the shaped frame is a component that cannot be standardized, since its planks
must be shaped by means of the milling operations in order to be mechanically coupled
with different types of wings.
[0014] In order to remedy the problem constituted by shaped support frames provided with
sections sufficiently wide to compensate for the aforesaid poor mechanical characteristics
deriving from the need to be able to mill them for the coupling with the wings (such
that they cannot be made of particularly strong materials), recently fixed frames
have been developed that are provided with an internal wood portion, and with an external
reinforcement portion, fixed to the internal wood portion, intended to obtain the
coupling with the wing as well as support the mounting of the relative fittings.
[0015] Such reinforcement portion is usually obtained with an aluminum profile, or a polyamide
or polyurethane profile, fixed to the wood portion with screws, clips or glue.
[0016] Such frame involves high production costs, and to the extent that the reinforcement
portion results visible, it is not particularly appreciated by the market from an
aesthetic standpoint.
[0017] One example of a door or window of known type is illustrated in the section view
of figure A with the darkest part constituted by the external reinforcement portion
indicated with 100 and with the lightest part constituted by the internal wood portion
indicated with 200.
Presentation of the invention
[0018] In this situation, the problem underlying the present invention is therefore to overcome
the drawbacks manifested by the solutions of known type, by providing an exterior
door or window with exposed wood which optimizes both the aesthetic and mechanical
strength requirements.
[0019] Further object of the present invention is to provide an exterior door or window
with exposed wood which allows mounting a movable wing in a very versatile manner.
[0020] Further object of the present invention is to provide an exterior door or window
with exposed wood which has a frame provided with high mechanical strength in order
to precisely support the wing over time.
[0021] Further object of the present invention is to provide an exterior door or window
with exposed wood which overall is not very bulky and in particular has an overall
frame formed by the fixed frame and by the wing with particularly reduced section.
[0022] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exterior door or window
with exposed wood which resists, in an optimal manner, stresses transmitted thereto
by the wing and by the fittings.
[0023] Another object of the present invention is to provide an exterior door or window
with exposed wood which has a high thermal insulation value.
[0024] Further object of the present invention is to provide a method for the production
of an exterior door or window with exposed wood which is inexpensive and easy to produce.
Brief description of the drawings
[0025] The technical characteristics of the finding, according to the aforesaid objects,
can be clearly seen in the contents of the below-reported claims, and the advantages
thereof will be more evident in the following detailed description, made with reference
to the enclosed drawings, which represent several merely exemplifying and non-limiting
embodiments of the invention, in which:
- figure 1 shows a perspective view of an exterior door or window, object of the present
invention, with at least one movable wing, some parts having been removed in order
to better illustrate others;
- figure 2 shows a perspective view of a detail of figure 1 relative to a support cell
made of structural plywood;
- figure 3 shows a section view of the upright of a movable wing hinged on the upper
part, with the means for fixing to the wall indicated, according to a first embodiment
of the exterior door or window, object of the present invention;
- figure 3A shows a section view of the upright of a movable wing hinged on the upper
part, with the means for fixing to the wall indicated, according to a second embodiment
of the exterior door or window, object of the present invention;
- figure 3B shows a section view of a portion of the door or window of figure 1 regarding
the upright of an optional fixed wing, with the means for fixing to the wall indicated,
according to the first embodiment of the exterior door or window, object of the present
invention;
- figure 4 shows a section view of the crosspiece of a wing hinged at the upper part,
according to the first embodiment of the exterior door or window, object of the present
invention;
- figure 4A shows a section view of the crosspiece of a wing hinged on the upper part,
according to the second embodiment of the exterior door or window, object of the present
invention;
- figure 5 shows a section view of the crosspiece of a door or window provided with
an optional top frame pane fixed above a wing hinged on the upper part, according
to the first embodiment of the exterior door or window, object of the present invention;
- figure 6 shows a section view of the crosspiece of a door or window provided with
an optional bottom frame pane fixed below a wing hinged on the upper part, according
to the first embodiment of the exterior door or window, object of the present invention;
- figure 7 shows a section view of the crosspiece of an exterior door or window which
separates two optional fixed wings;
- figure 8 shows a section view of the upright of a door, according to the first embodiment
of the exterior door or window, object of the present invention;
- figure 8A shows a section view of the upright of a door, according to the second embodiment
of the exterior door or window object of the present invention;
- figure 9 shows a perspective view of a detail of an exterior door or window, object
of the present invention, relative to fifth fixing means for connecting together crosspieces
and uprights inside said cell.
Detailed description of a preferred embodiment
[0026] With reference to the enclosed drawings, reference number 1 indicates overall the
exterior door or window with exposed wood, object of the present invention.
[0027] Hereinbelow in the present description, reference will be made to an exterior door
or window 1, in particular constituted by a window, a door, a French door, a skylight
or a different item, or any combination thereof that can comprise a top frame pane,
a bottom frame pane, wings of movable type on hinges or of movable type with tilt
and turn, or of top hinge type, it being intended that the invention can therefore
refer to any other type of door or window, without departing from the protective scope
of the present patent.
[0028] The exterior door or window 1, object of the present invention, comprises at least
one support cell 2, obtained with four or more planks 3 of structural plywood fixed
together and it is susceptible to be fixed securely to the wall of a building, as
will be specified hereinbelow.
[0029] Such support cell 2 is a bare support substructure that must then be fit with a dedicated
frame at the wing of the door or window, as well as with the same wing as specified
hereinbelow.
[0030] More clearly, each plank 3 is a board that is extended in a main longitudinal extension
direction Y and preferably has a width L of 80-160 mm and a thickness S of 20-40 mm.
[0031] Advantageously, in the range of 20 - 40 mm, between 9 and 15 layers are provided.
[0032] The gluing of the layers is preferably carried out in class 3 (EN 314) Type M 100
(UNI 6478/69) and advantageously with glues of phenol or melamine type, thus suitable
for uses in outdoor settings.
[0033] The section S of the plank 3 is substantially quadrangular and preferably rectangular,
with at least two substantially flat main faces A, A' spaced from each other by the
thickness S, with smaller extension than the width of the faces A, A'. The two main
faces A, A' are connected by perimeter faces P (with smaller extension) that are extended
over four sides for the thickness S of the plank 3.
[0034] The main faces A, A' of the planks 3 are parallel to the layers of the plywood.
[0035] Preferably, moreover, the main faces A, A' of the planks 3 are orthogonal to the
overall lying plane of the door or window, hence with the main external perimeter
face A of the main faces, of the non-internal planks 3, fixed to the wall 16 of the
building, as explained hereinbelow.
[0036] With the term "substantially quadrangular", also geometries that are not perfectly
square or rectangular should be deemed to be comprised; such imperfections may be
due for example to the presence of grooves 13" for fixing to the brackets 13 as provided
for in figure 3A, 4A and 8A.
[0037] The planks 3 are connected together at the ends by means of first fastening means
4 in order to form the support cell 2.
[0038] More in detail, at least four planks 3 of the support cell 2 are rigidly fixed to
each other at the four vertices through the first fastening means 4,
per se of conventional type, such as brackets, screws, tenons and pins etc., not described
in detail since
per se known to the man skilled in the art. Crosspieces and uprights can also be present
within the external perimeter of the support cell 2, in order to divide the support
cell 2 into substructures to which wings of movable type can be associated.
[0039] The support cell 2 therefore assumes the original geometric form of a rigid frame,
whose structure is dedicated to the static mechanical strength for support of the
wings, and at the same time is quite thin (narrow) since it is substantially formed
by planks with substantially flat main faces A, A' that define at least one closed
external perimeter extension - usually defined by four profiles orthogonally joined
together at their ends - as well as possibly other closed extensions defined by internal
uprights and crosspieces of intermediate planks.
[0040] The planks 3 of the cell are therefore advantageously provided with substantially
flat main faces A, A' that lack processing in order to allow optimizing the mechanical
strength thereof, obtaining a standardized manufactured product then susceptible to
be fitted (as will be explained below) with shaped frames easily formed on softer
material. Indeed, due to the very high mechanical strength of the material with which
they are obtained, they are substantially intended only to support the door or window
on the wall, whereas the shape intended for the connection with the wing is obtained,
as indicated hereinbelow, by the shaped frame made of material that is less mechanically
strong and hence more easily workable.
[0041] With the expression "substantially flat" referred to at least the main faces A, A'
of the planks and preferably to all the faces of the planks, the following will have
to be considered as comprised: planks with flat main faces A, A', in accordance with
the first preferred embodiment of figures 3, 4 and 8, or, also preferably, planks
in accordance with the second embodiment of figures 3A, 4A and 8A with at least one
external main face A of the main faces with a little processing in order to improve
its fastening to the wall, as is better explained below.
[0042] The closed extension of the support cell 2 delimits at least one opening which is
engaged by a wing, in particular glass, of movable type 8'. Advantageously, the closed
extension from the support cell 2 delimits a plurality of openings, each of which
engaged with a corresponding movable glass wing 8'. Preferably, the closed extension
of the support cell 2 delimits a plurality of openings, of which at least one opening
is advantageously engaged by a corresponding movable glass wing 8' and the remaining
openings of the plurality of openings are each engaged by an optional corresponding
wing, in particular glass, that is fixed 8.
[0043] In particular the fixed glass wing 8 can be obtained substantially with only one
glass panel, for example with multiple panes separated by a double glazing.
[0044] With the term "plank made of structural plywood" it is intended, as is known to the
man skilled in the art, a plank 3 formed by multiple layers of superimposed wood,
joined together by glue in order to confer high mechanical characteristics to the
plan thus assembled, as well as perfect flatness, torsional strength, and resistance
to water, humidity and inclement outdoor weather.
[0045] The man skilled in the art, based on such definition, is able to easily identify
the plywood on the market.
[0046] Such plank 3 made of structural plywood with thickness comprised between 20 and 40
mm, with a number of layers comprised between 9 and 15 and with glue of phenol or
melamine type, has longitudinal and transverse bending strength according to regulations
EN 310 comprised between 30 and 39 Mpa.
[0047] Preferably the same plank 3 also has longitudinal and transverse modulus of elasticity
according to regulations EN 310 comprised between 4100 and 4700 MPa.
[0048] Preferably the same plank 3 also has longitudinal and transverse bending strength
according to regulations EN 789 comprised between 25 and 27 MPa.
[0049] Preferably the same plank 3 also has longitudinal and transverse modulus of elasticity
according to regulations EN 789 MPa ranging from 4620 to 4660.
[0050] Advantageously, such characteristics are derived from multiple superimposed layers
of wood, in particular high-quality wood with considerable hardness such as mahogany,
Okoume, Iroko, maple, preferably glued together with melamine or phenol resins.
[0051] Preferably the plank 3 is made of Okoume plywood with phenol or melamine gluing.
This wood came to be the preferred selection of the invention because the plywood
plank thus obtained is distinguished by good durability characteristics and high mechanical
strength performances, while having a limited weight.
[0052] Preferably, the plank made of structural plywood is a multilayer marine wood or marine
plywood better known with the term "Marine Plywood", well-known to be used for its
mechanical strength, resistance to humidity and to the most challenging weathering
agents, in the construction of ship parts.
[0053] It is for example defined in a manner in accordance with the English regulations
BS 1088, which considers marine plywood to be a plywood plank of untreated hard woods,
of tropical origin, having a high capacity of resistance even to fungal attacks. The
glue, according to such regulations, must prove to be highly resistant to the outside
environment, to microorganisms, to hot water and boiling water, to steam and dry heat
by passing the tests provided by the English regulations BS 1088.
[0054] According to the present invention the exterior door or window 1 further comprises
at least one shaped frame 5, 5', formed by multiple profiles 6, 6' fixed by means
of second fastening means 7 on at least one main face A' of the planks 3 of the support
cell 2 or also both main faces A and A' for the planks 3 which form intermediate uprights
and crosspieces of the support cell 2.
[0055] The exterior door or window 1 comprises at least one movable glass wing 8' and a
corresponding shaped frame 5' formed by multiple profiles 6'. Advantageously, in accordance
with figure 1, the exterior door or window 1 comprises multiple movable glass wings
8' with the corresponding shaped frames 5', multiple fixed glass wings 8 and the corresponding
shaped frames 5 each formed by respective profiles 6.
[0056] Advantageously, the intermediate uprights and crosspieces of the cells 2 are fixed
together at the points of intersection by means of fifth fixing means 60 for example
constituted by metal pins 61 which are inserted in longitudinal holes obtained in
the opposite ends of two horizontal intermediate crosspieces 3, aligned to be joined
(see drawing of figure 9), and in through holes 63 obtained in a central vertical
upright 3 and (upright in figure 9) orthogonally interposed between the aforesaid
two aligned planks. Such pins 61 are engaged at one end in a bushing 64 inserted in
a transverse seat 66 obtained in an aforesaid intermediate plank at one end thereof
and are made integral with such bushings 64 by means of grub screws 65, and at the
other end via screwing in threaded bushings 67 pre-inserted in the thickness of the
transverse plank, as schematically exemplified in figure 9.
[0057] The crosspieces of the planks 3 are instead fixed to the lateral uprights of the
planks 3 by means of screws and bolts. The profiles 6, 6', in particular made of wood,
are fixed to the planks of the support cell 2 in a continuous manner with respect
to each other and generally orthogonally with respect to each other, along closed
trajectories in order to obtain the aforesaid shaped frames 5, 5'.
[0058] Such shaped frames 5, 5' are preferably made of a material that is softer and has
lower mechanical performance than the planks 3. Advantageously they can be made of
wood that is softer and has lower mechanical performance than the planks 3. Therefore,
the structural plywood of the planks 3 of the support cell 2 is provided with mechanical
strength that is greater than the wood of the profiles 6, 6' of the aforesaid shaped
frames 5, 5'. In particular, by mechanical strength it is intended the bending strength.
In addition, the structural plywood of the planks 3 of the support cell 2 is provided
with rigidity (modulus of elasticity) and hardness that are greater than that of the
wood of the profiles 6, 6' of the aforesaid shaped frames 5, 5'.
[0059] The exterior door or window 1 in accordance with the idea underlying the present
invention thus comprises at least one glass wing 8' mounted in a movable manner on
the support cell 2 between an open position, in which the movable glass wing 8' is
arranged separated from the corresponding shaped frame 5' and a closed position, in
which the movable glass wing 8' is susceptible to abut against the corresponding shaped
frame 5'.
[0060] In particular, the movable glass wing 8' is susceptible to abut against a seal portion
50 of the corresponding shaped frame 5' with interposition of at least one seal 82.
[0061] The support cell 2 as defined above has functionality dedicated to the structural
mechanical strength, i.e. for fixing to the wall and for supporting fittings. It does
not have the typical shapes of the abutment frames of the wings and consequently has
very limited section (thickness) in the direction orthogonal to the wall.
[0062] Such circumstance allows the support cell 2 to be installed in the wall of the building
even when work-site operations are still underway, such as during the construction
of the building or the arrangement of the installations. Due to the high mechanical
strength and to the small projection from the wall, the support cell 2 is not susceptible
to be damaged in open construction sites. In this step, it can also be covered by
a removable protection film 70 which will be removed when the work has been completed
or nearly completed, or in any case when the doors or windows are no longer at risk
for being deteriorated by the works of the work-site. Such film 70 will advantageously
be arranged on the first lateral edge 17 directed towards the internal environment
of the building 17 and on the exposed contiguous surface of the plank 3. Such film
is exemplifyingly and schematically illustrated with a net-like surface in the single
lower portion of figure 2.
[0063] The main internal perimeter face A' (of the main faces) of the planks opposite the
main external perimeter face A (of the main faces), fixed to the wall, is substantially
flat so as to facilitate the covering with the protection film 70 and thus to reduce
the bulk projecting from the wall, limiting the risk of interfering with the work
tools during the work-site operations.
[0064] Such face A', as explained below, is susceptible to be fit with the frame 5, 5' intended
to mechanically collaborate with the wing. The frame 5, 5' can nevertheless be mounted
when the main works of the work-site have been completed, so as to not risk being
ruined.
[0065] The second fastening means 7 mentioned above are for example obtained with simple
screws that engage the profiles 6, 6' of the shaped frame 5, 5' to the planks 3 of
the support cell 2.
[0066] The aforesaid screws of the second fastening means 7 are mounted in engagement on
the shaped frame 5, 5' in order to allow a facilitated removal thereof in case of
substitution of movable glass wings 8' with other new wings.
[0067] Advantageously, in accordance with the first embodiment illustrated in figures 3,
4 and 8, in the case of movable glass wing 8', the aforesaid screws of the second
fastening means 7 are preferably mounted with the head in engagement on a preferably
oblique portion directed towards the external environment of the profile 6' of the
shaped frame 5'.
[0068] Otherwise, in accordance with the second embodiment illustrated in figures 3A, 4A
and 8A, the aforesaid screws of the second fastening means 7 are preferably mounted
with the head in engagement on the main external perimeter face A of the main faces
and with the shank that, having traversed the thickness of the plank 3, is inserted
in the profile 6' of the shaped frame 5'. In this manner, the screw remains hidden
from view. In the case of the presence of an optional top frame pane or an optional
bottom frame pane, first the fastening screws of the movable profiles 6' are fixed
on the main external perimeter face A of the main faces, and only afterward will the
fixed profiles 6 be mounted on the latter face, to cover the fastening screws 7 of
the movable profiles 6'.
[0069] In the case of an optional fixed glass wing 8, the aforesaid screws of the second
fastening means 7 are preferably mounted with the heads in engagement on brackets
10 fittingly inserted in grooves 11 obtained in a substantially counter-shaped manner
on the profiles 6 of the shaped frame 5. Such brackets 10 are angularly shaped in
order to also cover the external edge of the profiles 6 of the shaped frame 5 in a
manner so as to act as abutment for the glass panel 80.
[0070] Advantageously, in one embodiment of the optional fixed glass wing 8 not illustrated
in the enclosed figures, a layer of structural sealant glue is interposed between
the glass panel 80 and the external edge of the profiles 6 of the shaped frame 5;
i.e. a structural double-sided tape 9.
[0071] In order to allow the firm fixing of the support cell 2 to the wall 16, at least
one of its constituent planks 3, and normally all the planks 3 that form the external
perimeter (usually four planks) of the support cell 2, each comprise at least one
main external face A of the main faces, which is susceptible to be fixed to the wall
of a building by means of third fastening means 12.
[0072] The remaining face of the main faces of the planks 3 to be considered internal, i.e.
directed towards the opening delimited by the support cell 2, indicated with A' in
the enclosed figures, bears, fixed, the shaped frame 5, 5' by means of the aforesaid
second fastening means7.
[0073] Of course, in the case of planks of uprights and crosspieces within the external
perimeter of the support cell 2, in order to divide the support structure of the support
cell 2 into substructures to which glass wings are associated, both the main faces
A, A' of the planks are covered by shaped frames 5, 5'.
[0074] More in detail, the third fastening means 12 can be obtained with brackets 13
per se entirely conventional and known to the man skilled in the art, and for this reason
only indicated schematically in the single enclosed figure 3, relative to an upright
of the exterior door or window 1 in a section view. Such brackets 13 rigidly connected
the planks 3 of the support cell 2 to the wall 16. For such purpose, first screws
14 are provided for fixing the brackets to the wall. Advantageously, in accordance
with the second embodiment illustrated in figure 3A, second screws 14' are provided
for fixing the brackets 13 to the planks 3.
[0075] Advantageously, in accordance with the second embodiment illustrated in figure 3A,
the bracket 13 can advantageously provide for ribs 13' susceptible to be inserted
in counter-shaped surface grooves 13" obtained along the planks 3 in order to improve
the mechanical engagement. Advantageously, between the main external face A of the
main faces of the planks 3 that form the external perimeter of the support cell 2
and the wall 16, a layer of insulating material 130 can be partially interposed.
[0076] The wall 16 will for example comprise an external covering 160 (for example comprising
a plaster layer) and an internal body obtained with two brick walls 161 separated
by an insulating layer 162.
[0077] Preferably, in accordance with the second embodiment illustrated in figure 3A, the
main external face A of the main faces, of the planks 3, intended to be engaged with
the brackets 13, is provided with longitudinal grooves adapted to receive, in form
engagement, counter-shaped portions of the brackets.
[0078] Advantageously, the planks 3 of the support cell 2 are placed projecting from the
wall 16 even if substantially hidden from view by the shaped frame 5, 5' and by the
movable glass wing 8' or by the optional fixed glass wing 8.
[0079] The planks 3 of the support cell 2 are extended with their width L into the thickness
of the wall and therefore delimit a first lateral edge 17, which in particular in
accordance with the enclosed figure is oriented towards the internal setting of the
building, and a second lateral edge 18, which in particular in accordance with the
enclosed figures is oriented towards the external setting of the building.
[0080] The latter lateral edge 18 of the plank 3, which in particular in accordance with
the enclosed figures is oriented towards the outside environment, is covered by a
protection profile 23 made of aluminum fixed by means of clips 24 with screw shank,
to the same plank 3, or, in accordance with a non-illustrated embodiment, by means
of forced fitting of projecting portions of the protection profile in grooves of the
plank 3.
[0081] The shaped frame 5, 5' is fixed to a main face A' (or even to both the main faces
A and A' for the planks 3 that form intermediate uprights and crosspieces of the support
cell 2) of the planks 3 of the support cell 2, in particular substantially starting
from the aforesaid first lateral edge 17 of the planks 3, which in particular in accordance
with the enclosed figures is oriented towards the internal environment.
[0082] The movable glass wing 8', in closed position, or the optional fixed glass wing 8
substantially faces a main face A' (or even both the main faces A and A' for the planks
3 which form intermediate uprights and crosspieces of the support cell 2) of the planks
3 of the support cell 2, in particular substantially starting from the aforesaid second
lateral edge 18 of the planks 3, which in particular in accordance with the enclosed
figures is directed oriented towards the external environment.
[0083] The support cell 2 mounts part of the fittings of the movable glass wing 8', constituted
by mechanisms
per se known to the man skilled in the art and for this reason not described in detail hereinbelow,
in particular formed by support hinges for the movable glass wing 8' (as indicated
with 20 in figure 8), by compass hinges for the movable glass wing 8' (as indicated
with 21 in figures 3 and 5), by lock bolt strikers, also perimeter, or by top-hung
upper hinge systems (as indicated with 22 in figures 4 and 6 with reference to engagement
mechanisms).
[0084] The movable glass wing 8' is rotatingly supported by the support cell 2 and comprises
a glass panel 80 and a support frame 81, which is perimetrically extended around the
glass panel 80 and mounts the complements of the hinges or tilt and turn mechanisms
provided on the support cell 2 in order to allow the support cell 2 to rotatably support
the wing 8' itself.
[0085] Advantageously, the movable glass wing 8' has, externally associated on its external
surface of the support frame 81 directed towards the outside environment, a protection
profile 23', it too preferably obtained with an extruded aluminum profile fixed to
the aforesaid external surface by means of clips 24 provided with head 24' inserted
in engagement in longitudinal grooves 25 of the extruded aluminum profile 23' and
with threaded shank 24" engaged for screwing into the aforesaid external surface of
the support frame 81 of the wing 8'. Such protection profile 23' performs the function
of externally fixing the glass panel 80 to the movable wing 8'.
[0086] As stated, the exterior door or window 1 optionally comprises the fixed glass wing
8 and in this case it is advantageously rigidly fixed in abutment against the corresponding
shaped frame 5 by means of fourth fixing means 90 and it can be obtained in a simple
manner, only by a glass panel 80.
[0087] These fourth fixing means 90 preferably comprise one or multiple profiles, for example
constituted by one or more aluminum extrusions fixed to the planks 3 of the support
cell 2 at their second lateral edge 18 by means of screws or clips 24 and/or by means
of male-female portions engaged with each other (solution non illustrated).
[0088] In accordance with one embodiment of the optional fixed glass wing 8 illustrated
in the enclosed figures 3B, 5, 6 and 7, a protection profile 23 and a retention profile
23" can be provided. In particular, the protection profile 23 is placed to cover the
second lateral edge 18 of the planks 3 of the support cell 2. In particular, the retention
profile 23" acts on the external edge of the glass panel 80 and is fixed to at least
one main face A, A' of the plank 3 of the support cell 2.
[0089] Suitably, the protection profile 23 is fixed on the second lateral edge 18 of the
planks 3 of the support cell 2 by means of clips 24 provided with head 24' inserted
in engagement in longitudinal grooves 25 of the protection profile 23 and with threaded
shank 24" engaged via screwing on the external surface of the plank 3. In addition,
the retention profile 23" is fixed to at least one main face A, A' of the plank 3
of the support cell 2 by means of screws.
[0090] In accordance with one embodiment of the optional fixed glass wing 8 not illustrated
in the enclosed figures, the protection profile 23 fixed on the second lateral edge
18 of the planks 3 of the support cell 2 is also extended to cover the perimeter edge
of the glass panel 80, also performing the simultaneous function of fixing the same
glass panel 80 to the shaped frame 5. Such extruded aluminum profile 23 therefore
performs both the function of fixing and that of external protection covering indicated
above.
[0091] Advantageously, according to one embodiment of the present invention, in the case
in which the plank 3 is relative to a lower crosspiece of the exterior door or window
1, the protection profile 23 defines at the front part of the lower edge of the glass
panel, a channel 231 for the drainage of the water.
[0092] The latter advantageously receives the water from a channel profile 230 that hits
the main internal perimeter face A' of the plank 3, which is advantageously extended
starting from the profile 6' of the shaped frame 5' of the movable glass wing 8' and
has at least one portion tilted outward for the drainage of the water towards the
channel 231.
[0093] The glass panel 80, for both types of glass wing 8, 8', advantageously comprises,
in a manner
per se entirely conventional, an internal sheet and an external sheet, fixed to each other
by a perimeter cord made of sealant material (e.g. of structural silicone) as well
as spaced from the same internal sheet by means of a channel defining at least one
double glazing together with the glass sheets.
[0094] The lower perimeter edge of the glass panel 80 is inserted in a step defined between
the plank 3 and the frame 5 in the case of the optional fixed glass wing 8 and in
a step defined in the support frame 81 in the case of movable wing 8'. In the latter
case, given that preferably the base of the step is externally tilted, on the profile
of the support crosspiece it is provided to use plastic support brackets 232, e.g.
with 6-9 cm length fixed with screws and shaped for compensating for such tilt and
maintaining the glass panel 80 vertical.
[0095] A perimeter channel 15 is preferably provided, fixed by means of screws 15' to the
internal face 81' of the support frame 81 of the movable glass wing 8' which is opposed
to the main face A' of the main faces of the planks 3 of the support cell 2, in order
to convey the humidity that condenses and the water that filters towards the outside
of the door or window. Preferably such channel 15 is obtained with linear sections
joined together at 90 degrees and suitably undercut in the superimposed parts.
[0096] Also forming an object of the present invention is a method for the production of
an exterior door or window with exposed wood, in particular of the type described
above in the different embodiments; in order to simplify the description, the same
reference numbers and nomenclature will be maintained hereinbelow.
[0097] The aforesaid method, according to the idea underlying the present invention, provides
for the following operative steps.
[0098] It is provided to produce planks of structural plywood 3 by means of a first operation
of cutting a panel of structural plywood with parallel cuts of predefined width L,
obtaining planks of structural plywood 3 having substantially quadrangular section
with at least two substantially flat main faces A, A', spaced by the thickness S of
the same planks 3, and parallel to the layers of the plywood.
[0099] The production of the planks of structural plywood 3 also provides for a second operation
of cutting the planks of structural plywood 3 to the required length L, in order to
obtain the door or window with the desired size.
[0100] Then there is the operation of fixing together the ends of at least four planks structural
plywood 3 obtained with the above-specified cutting operations, by means of first
fastening means 4. In this manner, a support cell 2 is formed that is susceptible
to be fixed securely to the wall 16 of a building.
[0101] Then there is an operation for fixing profiles 6, 6' on at least one main face A,
A' of the planks 3 of the support cell 2 by means of second fastening means 7, fitting
the profiles 6, 6' to form a trajectory closed without interruption in order to obtain
a shaped frame 5, 5'.
[0102] Then there is an operation for mounting at least one movable glass wing 8' on the
support cell 2 by means of fittings susceptible to movably support the movable wing
8' with respect to the support cell 2 between an open position, in which the movable
wing 8' is arranged separated from the corresponding shaped frame 5' and a closed
position, in which the movable wing 8' is arranged in abutment against the corresponding
shaped frame 5'.
[0103] Optionally, an operation is provided for mounting at least one fixed wing 8 mechanically
constrained to the corresponding shaped frame 5 by means of a mechanical retention
collaboration relation.
[0104] Preferably, the fixing of the shaped frame 5, 5' to the support cell 2 occurs with
screws having the head in engagement on the shaped frame 5, 5', in order to allow
an easy removal thereof in case of substitution of glass wings of movable type 8'
with other new wings.
[0105] A step is advantageously provided for provisionally covering the main faces A, A'
of the planks 3 of the cell 2, not intended for coupling to the wall, with a protection
film 70 in order to allow the cell 2 to be installed in the presence of a work-site
of a building (e.g. for fabrication, restoration, renovation or maintenance of the
building), entirely free of projecting frames 5, 5' as well as glass wings 8' that
could be damaged during the work-site activity. Due to the covering 70 and to the
hardness of the cell 2, the latter is correctly protected from accidental damage,
to which it could be subjected during normal work-site operations, and which could
be due both to the dirtying with liquid substances (corrosive substances, lime, solvent
paints or other items) and to mechanical impact, e.g. during the movement of normal
equipment used in work-sites.
[0106] Once the most problematic work-site operations, with regard to the safety of the
cell 2, have been completed, a step is provided for removing the protection film 70
such that the aforesaid step can take place for fixing the shaped frame 5, 5' as well
as the step for mounting the glass wings 8'.
[0107] Suitably, the exterior door or window 1 thus obtained comprises the support cell
2, whose structure is dedicated to the static mechanical strength, the shaped frames
5, 5' and the at least one movable glass wing 8' susceptible to abut against the corresponding
shaped frame 5'. Therefore, the support cell 2 is made with planks 3 of structural
plywood having the main faces A, A' substantially flat and lacking processing and
adapted to sustain mechanical stresses (derived from the stresses for supporting the
door or window on the wall, from the stresses transmitted to the support cell 2 by
the wing, etc.), while the shaped frames 5, 5' are made of a softer material, mechanically
less performing than the structural plywood of the planks 3 and adapted to be processed
in order to define the abutment with the corresponding wing and the mounting seats
of the seals.
[0108] The finding thus conceived therefore attains the pre-established objects.
[0109] Of course, in the practical attainment thereof, it can also assume forms and configurations
that are different from that illustrated above, without departing from the present
protective scope.
[0110] In addition, all details can be substituted by technically equivalent elements and
the size, shapes and materials employed can be of any type according to the needs.
1. Exterior door or window with exposed wood
characterized in that it comprises:
- at least one support cell (2) susceptible to be fixed securely to the wall (16)
of a building, provided with four or more planks (3) of structural plywood, having
a substantially quadrangular section with two substantially flat main faces (A, A')
spaced from each other by the thickness (S) of said planks (3), parallel to the layers
of said plywood, and connected together at least at the ends by means of first fastening
means (4) in order to form said support cell (2);
at least one shaped frame (5, 5'), formed by multiple profiles (6, 6') fixed together
in a continuous manner by means of second fastening means (7) on at least one substantially
flat main face (A, A') of said planks (3) of said support cell (2);
at least one wing (8') movable between a closed position and an open position, mounted
on said support cell (2) and susceptible to abut against the corresponding shaped
frame (5') in closed position.
2. Exterior door or window as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that at least one plank (3) of said support cell (2) comprises at least one main internal
face (A'), on which said shaped frame (5, 5') is fixed by means of said second fastening
means (7), and at least one main external face (A), which is suitable to be fixed
to the wall (16) of a building by means of third fastening means (12).
3. Exterior door or window as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that said shaped frame (5, 5') is fixed to at least one said main face (A, A') of the
planks (3) of said support cell (2), in particular substantially starting from a first
lateral edge (17) of said planks (3), said movable wing (8, 8') in closed position
substantially facing said main face (A, A') starting from a second lateral edge (18)
of said planks (3).
4. Exterior door or window as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that said second fastening means (7) consist of screws, the head of which being engaged
in said shaped frame (5, 5').
5. Exterior door or window as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that at least some of the fittings of said movable wing (8, 8') are mounted on said support
cell (2), in particular fittings of the type comprising: support hinges for said mobile
wing (8'); compass hinges for said mobile wing (8'); lock bolt strikers; tilt and
turn systems; top-hung hinge systems, perimeter protection systems.
6. Exterior door or window as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that said movable wing (8') is rotatingly supported by said support cell (2) and comprises
a glass panel (80) and a support frame (81) of said glass panel (80) susceptible to
abut against the corresponding shaped frame (5') with the interposition of at least
a seal (82).
7. Exterior door or window as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that it comprises at least one fixed wing (8), rigidly fixed in abutment against the corresponding
frame (5) by fourth fastening means (90), in particular comprising at least one retention
profile (23) fixed to the planks (3) of said support cell (2) at their second lateral
edge (18).
8. Exterior door or window as claimed in any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said planks (3) of structural plywood are made of marine plywood.
9. Exterior door or window as claimed in any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the structural plywood of the planks (3) of said support cell (2) is provided with
greater mechanical strength than the wood of said profiles (6, 6') of said shaped
frame (5, 5').
10. Method of production of an exterior door or window with exposed wood, comprising the
following steps:
production of planks of structural plywood (3) by means of:
- cutting a panel of structural plywood by means of parallel cuts having a predefined
width (L) to obtain planks of structural plywood (3) having a substantially quadrangular
section with at least two substantially flat main faces (A, A') spaced by the thickness
(S) of said planks themselves, and parallel to the layers of said plywood;
- cutting of said structural plywood (3) to the required length;
fixing together the ends of four or more planks of structural plywood (3) thus obtained
by means of first fastening means (4) in order to form a support cell (2) susceptible
to be fixed securely to the wall (16) of a building,
- by means of second fastening means (7), fixing profiles (6, 6') on at least one
substantially flat main face (A, A') of the planks (3) of said support cell (2), fitting
them in a continuous manner to obtain a shaped frame (5, 5');
- mounting at least one movable wing (8') on said support cell (2), by means of fittings
susceptible to movably support said movable wing (8') with respect to said support
cell (2) between an open position and a closed position, wherein said movable wing
(8') is in abutment against said shaped frame (5').
11. Method of production of an exterior door or window as claimed in claim 10, wherein
said shaped frame (5, 5') is fixed to said support cell (2) by means of said second
fastening means (7) comprising screws, the head of which being engaged in said shaped
frame (5, 5').
12. Method of production of an exterior door or window as claimed in claim 10 or 11, wherein
said step of fastening said planks of structural plywood (3) to form one said support
cell (2) is followed by a step in which said support cell (2) is installed in the
wall of a building and a subsequent step of provisionally covering the substantially
flat main surfaces (A, A') of the planks (3) of said support cell (2) to which said
profiles (6, 6') are to be fixed, in order to prevent them from being damaged during
activities at the work-site.
13. Method of production of an exterior door or window as claimed in claim 12, wherein
said step of fixing said profiles (6, 6') on at least one of said main faces (A, A')
of said support cell (2) is preceded by a step in which said protective covering (70)
is removed.