[0001] The present invention relates to a window system comprising: a window including a
number of components, a screening assembly including a screening device, and at least
one appliance member. The invention furthermore relates to a method for upgrading
a window system.
[0002] Such window systems are known from many fields of application. When installed, the
window of such a system is mounted in a façade or an inclined roof. The screening
assembly is intended for use in screening of the window, and typically comprises a
screening device mounted externally or internally of the window.
[0003] Over the years, it has been increasingly common to provide a number of external accessories
or appliance members on the window itself or on the screening assembly. Such appliance
members include for instance rain sensors, solar cells or photovoltaic elements, and
other elements adapted to take part in or assist the operation of the window, of other
roof or façade penetrating elements, or of the screening assembly. In externally positioned
screening assembiles and on the window itself, any such appliance members are located
outdoors, these parts are permanently exposed to the weathering.
[0004] Appliance members are normally connected to one or more components of the window
in various manners such as for instance by means of adhesives or fastening means such
as screws. This is often the case in which a traditional window is upgraded to a window,
in which the window itself or its accessories are electrically operated. In that case,
appliance members such as solar cell panels or rain sensors are after-mounted on the
window. In other windows, which are dedicated to electric operation from the start,
appliance members are often formed as integral parts of the window. Additional appliance
members, for instance in the form of supplementary solar cell panels, are sometimes
placed next to already present appliance members, in case for instance the need for
power supply is increased following the mounting of new units to the window. In windows
already provided with solar cell panels and in which a screening assembly comprising
an external screening device is to be after-mounted, the additional problem arises
that the external screening device to a large extent covers the solar cell panels
of the window itself.
[0005] The appliance members to be used with prior art screening assemblies, for instance
in the form of external roller shutters, are most often tailor-made and suggested
located in or at the roller shutter itself, for instance beside the top element or
in side rails, cf. for instance
DE 199 14 677. For several reasons, it is, however, desirable to connect the appliance member or
members to the top element itself, even though this location poses certain demands
on the connection in order to maintain the parts of the roller shutter located on
the inside of the top element protected. One example of a roller shutter having a
number of appliance members connected to the top element is disclosed in
FR 2 842 860, in which appliance members including a photovoltaic element are located in a separate
box connected to the top element of the roller shutter. A further development of this
roller shutter is disclosed in
FR 2 894 278 A1, in which the roller shutter is operated by means of a motor supplied with power
from a photovoltaic element integrated into the top element. The photovoltaic element
is at its backside, i.e. the side facing inwards into the top element, connected to
a receiver, to the motor, and to a battery. Even though the latter document provides
for the all-elements-in-one design aimed at, this roller shutter is thus limited to
be utilized with the integrated photovoltaic element, and nothing is mentioned about
maintenance or exchange of one or more of the appliance members.
[0006] With this background it is an object of the present invention to provide a window
system, in which upgrading of the window and after-mounting of appliance members are
made more easy and cost-effective, and in which the selection and handling of appliance
members are more flexible.
[0007] In a first aspect, these and further objects are achieved by a window system of the
kind mentioned in the introduction, wherein at least one of said number of components
of the window includes at least one track, and said screening device being provided
with at least one track, and wherein said at least one appliance member is interchangeable
between a track of the at least one window component and a track of the screening
device, each at least one appliance member being received in a track of the window
component or the screening device in a releasable connection.
[0008] In this manner, the substantially increased flexibility aimed at is fulfilled, and
the costs for manufacturing and upgrading the window system are reduced, as the interchangeable
feature of the appliance members entail that one and the same appliance member may
be used and re-used in various positions in the components of the window and in the
screening assembly. For instance, in case a window already provided with appliance
members such as for instance solar cell panels and a rain sensor in one component,
and it is desired to install an external screening device, the appliance members of
the window are easily removed from the track of the window component and re-installed
in the track of the screening device.
[0009] The term "releasable connection" is to be interpreted as including any connection
between an appliance member or appliance members and the other part in the form of
a window component or screening assembly, respectively, involving an at least temporary
retention of the appliance member relative to the other part. The connection may involve
any kind of contact or other cooperation between the appliance member or members and
the other part, respectively, which fulfils this function, including connections including
locking means separate from the appliance member or members and the other part. The
term "releasable connection" includes connections that may be re-connected after release,
but does not exclude connections that are not re-connectable following mutual releasing
of the applicance member from the other part. Eventually, the term should be interpreted
as including in general any connection that is possible to release without damage
to at least the parts of the window component or screening assembly.
[0010] In principle, the track may be formed in any component forming part of the window.
However, in a preferred embodiment, the window component including at least one track
is a cover element selected from the group comprising: window top cover, window bottom
cover, and window side cover.
[0011] One such component, in which appliance members are suitably placed, is the window
top cover. Advantageously, the window top cover defines a length and a first longitudinal
direction corresponding to a width direction of the window, and wherein the window
top cover is provided with an external longitudinal track. The width dimension of
the window leaves suitable room for the appliance member or members.
[0012] The track may either be formed integrally with the existing window top cover, but
in an advantageous embodiment, the external longitudinal track is provided in a separate
adapter element of the window top cover. In this manner, the traditional window top
cover, for instance constituted by the top casing, may be reused, while the separate
adapter element may be formed taking into account considerations of the track.
[0013] In another embodiment, appliance member or members are present also at the bottom
of the window, as the window bottom cover defines a length and a first longitudinal
direction corresponding to a width direction of the window, and wherein the window
bottom cover is provided with an external longitudinal track. The external longitudinal
track may be integral with the existing window bottom cover or provided in a separate
adapter element of the window bottom cover.
[0014] In one embodiment, the screening device comprises a roller shutter having a top element
defining a length and a longitudinal direction, two side rails extending at right
angles to the top element, and a shutter body including a plurality of slats providing
the screening, ends of the slats being guided in the side rails, said top element
being adapted to be connected with at least one appliance member, and wherein said
top element includes an external track extending in the longitudinal direction on
the outer side of said top element, said track being adapted to receive each said
at least one appliance member, that said track has a bottom portion positioned at
a level inwards in the direction towards the interior of the top element relative
to an upper surface of the top element, said top element preferably including a top
cover, and said external track being preferably formed in the top cover.
[0015] The provision of the external track entails that operations such as maintenance,
retrofitting, removal and exchange of the appliance member or members are made very
easy. Furthermore, as the track is positioned externally, the interior parts of the
roller shutter are at no time exposed during the above-mentioned operations, and the
interior parts thus remain protected by the top element. As the level of the bottom
portion of the track is positioned at a lower level than the general upper surface
level, the track is provided with a depressed configuration which in turn entails
that it is possible to receive appliance member or members in the track without necessarily
protruding beyond the upper surface of the top element. By making the connection between
the roller shutter and the appliance member or members releasable, a greater degree
of flexibility is achieved, as an appliance member or appliance members may easily
be retrofitted, removed or exchanged.
[0016] The optional feature that said top element includes a top cover, and wherein said
external track is formed in the top cover entails a number of advantages in relation
to the manufacture and assembly of the roller shutter, and furthermore that the bending
and torsional strengths of the top cover are increased. In turn, this means that the
material thickness may be reduced while maintaining the same overall strength of the
top element, and/or that the need for supplemental reinforcement of the top element
is made superfluous. Such supplemental reinforcement is traditionally provided by
separate profiles mounted in the top element, and as such separate profiles need not
be mounted, the production is made cheaper and easier. It is of course also possible
to increase the strength by maintaining the material thickness and supplemental reinforcement.
[0017] The track needs not extend throughout the length of the top element. Thus, in an
embodiment, the track has an extension which is less than the length of the top element
and/or is composed by a number of track parts located at a mutual distance from each
other in the longitudinal direction of the top element.
[0018] The cross-section of the track is preferably selected from the group consisting of
U-shape, V-shape, rectangular, square, dovetail-shaped, a rectangular or square main
shape with one or more grooves in the sides.
[0019] In order to offer the possibility of having a series of coupled appliance members
and optionally facilitate the mounting and the conditions during use, the track may
be provided with a coating and/or separate strips, said coating and/or separate strips
being preferably electrically conducting or adhesive.
[0020] Preferably, said track provides first engagement means for the releasable connection
with the at least one appliance member, and said at least one appliance member is
provided with second engagement means that are complementary to the first engagement
means of the top element of the roller shutter.
[0021] In principle, such complementary first and second engagement means may take any suitable
form, including contact only between mutually facing surfaces of the window component
or screening device and the appliance member or members, respectively. The releasable
connection between the appliance member or members and the window component or screening
device may for instance be held in a non-positive engagement, or by positive engagement,
possibly supplemented by other engagement means that acts on the appliance member
and possibly the window component or screening device. The terms positive and non-positive
engagement, respectively, are to be interpreted in their broadest sense. Hence, positive
engagement is to be understood as involving releasable connection without the use
of other forces for keeping parts together than the forces resulting from the contact
between mutually facing surfaces of parts held together by the respective shapes.
By non-positive engagement is to be understood that other forces are acting on the
parts to hold the parts together. Typically, non-positive engagement involves the
use of friction, cooperation between mutually interlocking elements such as VELCRO®,
releasable adhesives etc.
[0022] Hence, in case said first and second engagement means are adapted to provide releasable
connection by means of positive engagement between the window component and the at
least one appliance member, the first and second engagement means may include mutually
cooperating parts of a dovetail joint or a tongue-and-groove joint. This is a structurally
simple and reliable manner of providing the releasable connection, as the appliance
member or members may be slid out of the external track in the longitudinal direction
of the window component or screening device.
[0023] Whether or not the engagement is positive or non-positive, the retention may be increased
or upheld by supplemental locking means. It is suitable that supplemental locking
means are provided in embodiments, in which the tracks have an "open" configuration,
i.e. being of U-shape, V-shape, rectangular or square shape, whereas locking means
may optionally also be provided also in tracks having a "closed" configuration, i.e.
dovetail-shaped tracks or tracks with one or more grooves in the sides.
[0024] Additionally or alternatively, the releasable connection between the top element
and the at least one appliance member may comprise a set of protruding and/or upstanding
flaps or flanges on either the top element or the appliance member or members to engage
releasably with a corresponding accommodating aperture or slit on the other of the
appliance member(s) and window component or screening device. In a further development
of the above-mentioned preferred embodiment, the upstanding and/or protruding flap(s)
or flange(s) may be provided in the external track itself.
[0025] The at least one appliance member may be of any suitable kind, but is preferably
selected from the group comprising solar cell panels, photovoltaic elements, power
storage elements, such as capacitors or accumulators, members providing lighting,
such as LCD and OLED, filling panels, members adapted for carrying information, sign
boards, name plates, advertising signs, sensor and transducer elements.
[0026] In principle, the appliance member or members may have any suitable dimensions, as
long as they are functional and do not comprimise the overall appearance and functionality
of the window component or screening device. It is advantageous if the length dimension
of each appliance member has a predefined value such that one appliance member may
be positioned in the width direction of a small window, two in a slightly wider window,
three in a yet wider, and four in the widest windows of a range of windows of a programme.
[0027] Advantageously, the length dimension of each appliance member lies in the range 5
to 50 cm, and the width dimension lies in the range 5 to 15 cm, the dimensions of
the appliance member not exceeding the corresponding dimensions of the window component
or screening device. The thickness of the appliance members depends on the character
of the appliance member, but in general, the thickness is limited to what is feasible
in the window component or the screening assembly. Typically, the thickness is below
5 cm, preferably below 2 cm, or even below 1 cm.
[0028] In particular, it is advantageous in the case one appliance member is a solar cell
panel having a length dimension in the range 30 to 38 cm, as this makes it possible
to configure windows of a standard programme with an optimum number of solar cell
panels.
[0029] Another advantageous choice of dimensions in an appliance member is constituted by
a rain sensor having a length dimension in the range 5 to 15 cm.
[0030] Preferably, the upper surface of each at least one appliance member is substantially
flush with the upper surface of the window component or screening device. In addition
to providing an aesthetically attractive appearance of the window or screening assembly,
the appliance member or members are protected during storage, transport, installation
and use. The term "flush" is to be interpreted as meaning that there is no substantial
perception of a level difference between the respective upper surfaces at least from
a visual point of view. In this regard, it is noted that such windows and screening
assemblies are most often positioned on roofs located a number of metres from ground
level; hence, slight level differences may be conceivable while still being perceived
as falling within the concept of "flush". The upper surface of the appliance member
or members may also be positioned at a slightly lower level than the upper surface
of the window component or screening device, and still be virtually unnoticeable within
the defined context.
[0031] In a second aspect of the invention, a method for upgrading a window system is provided,
comprising the steps of:
providing a window including a number of components,
providing at least one track in at least one of said number of components,
providing a screening assembly including a screening device with at least one track,
providing at least one appliance member,
receiving at least one appliance member in a track of the window component or the
screening device in a releasable connection, and
interchanging said at least one appliance member between a track of the at least one
window component and a track of the screening device.
[0032] In further aspects of the invention, a roller shutter is provided, having a top element
defining a length and a longitudinal direction, two side rails extending at right
angles to the top element, and a shutter body including a plurality of slats providing
the screening, ends of the slats being guided in the side rails, said top element
being adapted to be connected with at least one appliance member, the roller shutter
being characterized in that said top element includes an external track extending
in the longitudinal direction on the outer side of said top element, said track being
adapted to receive each said at least one appliance member, that said track has a
bottom portion positioned at a level inwards in the direction towards the interior
of the top element relative to an upper surface of the top element, and that said
track is adapted to receive each at least one appliance member in a releasable connection.
[0033] In a further development, the track in the top cover of the top element of the roller
shutter is provided by shaping the top cover in a roll-forming operation. Roll-forming
is a well-established manufacturing process, in which a wide variety of profiling
may be achieved in a number of materials of varying thickness. In combination with
the strength increase provided by the presence of the track, which makes it possible
to utilize a lower material thickness, the roll-forming operation is made particularly
easy. A continuous track extending throughout the length of the top element is easily
formed by roll-forming, substantially without the need for supplemental resources
during the manufacture of the top cover itself. Alternative shaping operations are
of course conceivable; examples being compression moulding or deep-drawing of one
track, or of two or more track parts, each adapted to receive one or more appliance
members.
[0034] In a further aspect, a screening assembly comprising a roller shutter, and at least
one appliance member is provided.
[0035] In the screening assembly according to this aspect of the invention, the top element
includes an external track extending in the longitudinal direction on the outer side
of said top element, said track has a bottom portion positioned at a level inwards
in the direction towards the interior of the top element relative to an upper surface
of the top element, and each at least one appliance member is received in said track
in a releasable connection.
[0036] In order to give architects, retailers, and end users optimum flexibility in the
choice of appliance members, the screening assembly may be provided in a well-defined
delivery state in which the appliance member is a filling panel extending substantially
throughout the length of the top cover of the roller shutter top element. Alternatively,
the screening assembly may be provided in a delivery state in which one appliance
member is a solar cell panel and another appliance member is a filling panel. This
meets the most common demand for appliance members in screening assemblies comprising
an electrically operated roller shutter. Solar cell panels renders the wiring much
less complicated than roller shutters operated by motors supplied by power from for
instance the interior of the building, and also meet the increasing requirements to
use of sustainable energy sources.
[0037] Ease of retrofitting of supplemental appliance member or members is achieved in a
further development of the above two suggested developments, in which the filling
panel is provided with a number of weakening lines, preferably one weakening line
extending along the edges of the filling panel parallel to the longitudinal direction,
and/or preferably perpendicular to the longitudinal direction at distances corresponding
to a predefined size of the appliance member or members.
[0038] In a still further aspect of the invention, a method of manufacturing a screening
assembly comprising a roller shutter and at least one appliance member is provided.
[0039] The method comprises the steps of:
providing a top element,
forming an external track in the longitudinal direction on the outer side of said
top element, with a bottom portion positioned at a level inwards in the direction
towards the interior of the top element relative to an upper surface of the top element,
providing two side rails and connecting the side rails to the top element,
providing a shutter body including a plurality of slats and inserting ends of the
slats in the side rails,
providing at least one appliance member,
releasably connecting the at least one appliance member with said track such that
said appliance member is substantially contained within said track.
[0040] As in the other further aspects of the invention, the provision of the external track
entails that operations such as maintenance, retrofitting, removal and exchange of
the appliance member or members are made very easy, while at the same time the interior
parts of the roller shutter are virtually permanently protected. The fact that the
appliance member or members is contained in the track, i.e. without any substantialy
protrusion beyond the upper surface, is made possible by the provision of the depressed
configuration of the track. By making the connection between the roller shutter and
the appliance member or members releasable, a greater degree of flexibility is achieved,
as an appliance member or appliance members may easily be retrofitted, removed or
exchanged.
[0041] In a further development of the method, the step of providing the top element includes
the steps of providing a top cover with said track and providing two end covers for
connection to the end cover, and wherein the step of releasably connecting the at
least one appliance member is preferably carried out at least partly before the step
of connecting at least one of the end covers with the top cover.
[0042] Further details are described, and further advantages stated, in the description
of particular embodiments of the invention.
[0043] In the following the invention will be described in further detail by means of examples
of embodiments with reference to the schematic drawings, in which
Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a window system in an embodiment of the invention;
Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a window of the window system in an embodiment
of the invention;
Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a window of the window system in another
embodiment of the invention;
Figs 4 and 5 show exploded perspective views, on a larger scale, of details of the
embodiment shown in Fig. 3;
Fig. 6 is a perspective view, on larger scale, of a detail of a window in yet another
embodiment of the window system according to the invention;
Fig. 7 is an exploded perspective view, on a still larger scale, of the detail of
Fig. 6;
Fig. 8 is a perspective view, on larger scale, of a detail of a window in a still
further embodiment of the window system according to the invention;
Fig. 9 is a partly exploded perspective view including the detail shown in Fig. 8;
Fig. 10 is a perspective view, of a window in a yet further embodiment;
Fig. 11 is a perspective view of a screening assembly in an embodiment of the invention;
Fig. 12 is a plan view seen from the above of the screening assembly in the embodiment
shown in Fig. 11;
Fig. 13 is a perspective view of a detail of the screening assembly in the embodiment
shown in Fig. 11;
Figs 14 to 18 show side views corresponding to Fig. 13 of other embodiments of the
roller shutter according to the invention;
Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a detail of the screening assembly in the embodiment
shown in Fig. 11;
Figs 20 and 21 are perspective views, from different angles, of a detail of the screening
assembly in a further embodiment;
Fig. 22 is a perspective view of a detail of the screening assembly in a still further
embodiment;
Figs 23 and 24 are perspective views of details of the screening assembly in a yet
further embodiment; and
Fig. 25 is a perspective view of a window in a another embodiment of the window system
according to the invention.
[0044] In the Figures of the drawings, embodiments of a window system according to the invention
are shown. The principle underlying the invention is shown in Fig. 1, in which a window
generally designated 2 and a screening assembly generally designated 1 are shown.
Furthermore, an appliance member 100 of the window system is shown in three different
positions to be described in further detail below: A separate position, a first mounted
position in which the appliance member 100 is mounted in a component of the window
2, and a second mounted position in which the appliance member 100 is mounted in the
screening assembly 1. Arrow A indicates moving appliance member 100 from the separate
position to the first position in which it is mounted in a component of the window
(for instance during manufacture) and arrow B indicates moving appliance member 100
from its first position to the second position in which it is mounted in the screening
assembly 1 (for instance when after-mounting a screening assembly 1 on the window
2). In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1, the screening assembly 1 comprises a screening
device which is in the form of a roller shutter adapted to be mounted on the exterior
of the window 2, but other kinds of screening assemblies to be mounted either on the
exterior or to the interior of the window 2 are conceivable as well, as long as the
appliance member is interchangeable between tracks of the window and the screening
assembly as provided for by the invention. The window may be an electrically operated
window, in which the opening and closing movement is performed by an electrical actuator
powered by solar cell panels. Other functions of the window may be electrically operated
as well.
[0045] Details relating to the screening assembly 1 will be described in detail further
down with reference to Figs 11 to 24. Details of the window 2 of the window system
are described in particular with reference to Figs 2 to 10. Like reference numerals
indicate like or analogous elements throughout. The window 2 may for instance be a
roof window adapted for installation in an inclined roof. The window 2 includes a
number of components of which a frame 3 and a sash 4 are visible in Fig. 11. The sash
4 will most often be openable relative to the frame, viz. hinge connected to the frame
3, as in the embodiment shown, for instance by means of a set of pivot hinges (not
shown) positioned close to a central axis of the window to allow the sash 3 to pivot
relative to the frame 2, or by a more traditional hinge positioned at the top of the
window.
[0046] Further window components include a number of cover elements to protect the frame
3 and sash 4 and the interior of the window 2 in general from penetration of water
and other precipitation. The cover elements include a window top cover 2001, a window
bottom cover 2002 and window side covers 2003a, 2003b and 2004a, 2004b. Such cover
elements are traditionally formed of aluminium profiles that have been roll-formed,
deep-drawn or shaped in any other suitable manner. The window top cover 2001 forms
the top casing of the window 2, whereas the window bottom cover 2002 comprises the
bottom sash and frame coverings or claddings. The window side covers include frame
striking bead coverings or claddings 2003a and 2004a, and sash striking bead coverings
or claddings 2003b and 2004b. The cladding at each side of the window is a two-part
cladding, as the window in the embodiment shown is a pivot window, i.e. in which the
upper part of the sash moves inwards of the plane defined by the frame and the lower
part of the sash outwards. In turn, this means that one part of the cladding (i.e.
side cover 2003a) must be fastened to the frame 3, and another part of the cladding
(i.e. side cover 2003b) fastened to the sash. The particular design of the pivot hinge
shown in for instance
EP 1 038 083 B1, incorporated herein by reference, allows the two cladding parts to be moved out
of engagement with each other by the almost transitional respective movement of these
parts at the beginning of the opening operation. Had the window instead been top-hung
(or bottom-hung or side-hung), the cladding at each side of the window could have
been formed by a single element.
[0047] Other components of a window system according to the invention may include flashing
elements, not shown, forming the transition between the cover elements of the window
and the surrounding roofing.
[0048] In the embodiment shown, a track 2123 is formed in the top cover 2001, and a track
2223 in the bottom cover 2002. Appliance members 100 and 120 are shown in the exploded
view, and arrows C and D indicate their positioning into the tracks 2123 and 2223,
respectively, of the respective one of the top cover 2001 and bottom cover 2002. Conceivable
designs of the tracks are described in detail in connection with the description of
the track in the screening assembly, viz. with particular reference to Figs 13 to
18. The tracks 2123 and 2223 may be identical to each other or differ on some points.
[0049] Correspondingly, the window bottom cover 2002 defines a length and a first longitudinal
direction corresponding to the width direction of the window. The track 2223 of the
window bottom cover 2002 extends externally in the longitudinal direction.
[0050] In the embodiment of Fig. 2, the external longitudinal tracks 2123 and 2223 are provided
integrally in the top cover 2001 and bottom cover 2002, i.e. the top cover 2001 and
bottom cover 2002 are formed in substantially one piece. In the embodiment shown in
Figs 3 to 5, the top cover and bottom cover is each formed of substantially two parts,
of which the track is provided in a separate element.
[0051] At the top of the window, the external longitudinal track 2123 is provided in separate
adapter element 2101 of the window top cover 2001. The separate adapter element 2101
is intended to be mounted on a basis element 2100, which may for instance be the top
casing of a traditional window. The adapter element 2101 may be formed as an extruded
profile of the same material as the top casing and comprises flange portions 2102
and 2103 for engagement with corresponding parts of the basis element 2100. Opposite
projecting portions 2105 and 2106 are formed at a distance from the bottom portion
2104, thus forming the track 2123. Again, conceivable shapes and functions of the
track, and its engagement with the appliance member or members will be described in
further detail below. An end cover 2110 covers the ends of the basis element 2100
and the adapter element 2101, and a similar (not shown) end cover is provided at the
longitudinally other end of the top cover 2001. Thus, the fact that the top cover
2001 is in fact made up by two parts will be virtually unnoticeable from the outside
when the window is in its installed condition. In Fig. 3, a basis element 2100 is
shown already mounted on the window, examples of appliance members being shown (corresponding
to those of the embodiment of Fig. 6).
[0052] In a corresponding manner, the external longitudinal track 2223 in the bottom cover
2002 is provided in a separate adapter element 2201 to be connected to a basis element
2200. To this end, the adapter element 2201 has fastening holes 2202 for the reception
of suitable fastening means such as screws.
[0053] The number of appliance members in one track may vary, just as the track may be formed
by a number of separate track portions. Thus, in the embodiment shown in Fig. 2, two
appliance members are mounted in each of track 2123 in the top cover 2001 and track
2223 in bottom cover 2002, respectively. Of these two appliance member one is a solar
cell panel 100 and the other a filling panel 120. In the embodiment of Figs 3 to 5,
two appliance members are present in the track 2123 of the top cover 2001 and one
appliance member 100 in the track 2223 of the bottom cover 2002.
[0054] The dimensions of the appliance members may vary according to the particular function
and of the size of the window in which they are to be used. In particular, the length
dimension of each appliance member lies in the range 5 to 50 cm, and the width dimension
lies in the range 5 to 15 cm, the dimensions of the appliance member not exceeding
the corresponding dimensions of the window component or screening device. The thickness
of the appliance members depends on the character of the appliance member, but in
general, the thickness is limited to what is feasible in the window component or the
screening assembly. Typically, the thickness is below 5 cm, preferably below 2 cm,
or even below 1 cm. In the embodiment shown, the window top cover 2001 defines a length
and a first longitudinal direction corresponding to a width direction of the window.
The track 2123 of the window top cover 2001 thus extends externally and in the longitudinal
direction. The dimensions of the track are to a large extent limited by the overall
dimensions of the window component or the screening device of the screening assembly.
Typically, the length and width of the track may thus lie in similar ranges as those
of the appliance members. As one or more appliance members may be placed in one track.
The size range of the depth of the track is also substantially the same as for the
appliance members; however, in some applications, the track may have an extra space
below the appliance member or members to allow for wiring or other elements. In particular
in the case of solar cell panels it is most important to have as large an exposable
area as possible, i.e. the length and the width should be maximised, whereas the thickness
of the solar cell panels may be made very small, for instance 1 cm or below.
[0055] It is advantageous if the length dimension of each appliance member has a predefined
value such that one appliance member may be positioned in the width direction of a
small window, two in a slightly wider window, three in a yet wider, and four in the
widest windows of a range of windows of a programme. In practice, if an appliance
member in the form of a solar cell panel 100 has a length of 30 to 38 cm, then one
solar cell panel may be mounted in windows having a width of for instance 45 and 55
cm (and of course in larger windows, such as window having a width of 66, 78, 94,
114, or 134 cm); two solar cells in windows having a width of 66 (only applicable
to the lower values of the range) and 78 cm; three in windows having a width of 94
(only applicable to the lower values of the range) and 114 cm; and four in windows
having the largest width, 134 cm.
[0056] In the embodiments of Fig. 2 and Figs 3-5, the upper surface of each at least one
appliance member is substantially flush with the upper surface of the window component,
and there are only one or two appliance member(s) in each component/screening device.
[0057] In the embodiment of Figs 6 and 7, three appliance members 100, 110 and 120 are present
in the window top cover 2001. The top cover 2001 may be designed in a manner corresponding
to that described in connection with Fig. 5, viz. with a separate adapter element
2101 in which the track 2123 is provided mounted on a basis element 2100, the ends
being closed by end covers 2110 (only one end cover shown). In principle, the appliance
members may be selected from the group comprising solar cell panels, photovoltaic
elements, power storage elements, such as capacitors or accumulators, members providing
lighting, such as LCD and OLED, filling panels, members adapted for carrying information,
sign boards, name plates, advertising signs, sensor and transducer elements, and in
the embodiment shown, they include a solar cell panel 100, a rain sensor 110 and a
filling panel 120. As mentioned in the above, the appliance members may have predefined
dimensions. The width of each appliance member corresponds in substance to the width
of the track, and lies in the interval 5 to 15 cm. It is in particular advantageous
if the length of the solar cell panel 100 lies in the range 30 to 38 cm. The filling
panel 120 may have a similar length, such that for instance a further solar cell panel
may be engaged with the track of the window top cover 2100. This further solar cell
panel may either be an additional solar cell panel, or a solar cell panel which is
interchanged from another window component or a screening assembly. Conversely, each
of the appliance members of the window may, according to the principle underlying
the invention, be interchanged into another component of the window or to a screening
assembly. In the embodiment of Figs 8 and 9, three appliance members are also provided
in the component of the window constituted by the top cover 2001. However, in this
document the two appliance members, solar cell panel 100 and filling panel 120, are
positioned in the track 2123 such that they are substantially flush with the upper
surface, whereas rain sensor 1110 is positioned in a protruding position.
[0058] Other aspects of the track of the window components, among others the form and shape
of the track, number and position of track parts, engagement options with the appliance
member etc. will be described in further detail with reference to the screening assembly.
[0059] Details relating to the particular appliance members will also be described in additional
detail in the following.
[0060] In Figs 11 to 24 of the drawings, embodiments of a screening assembly according to
the invention are shown. The screening assembly is generally designated 1 and comprises
a screening device, which in the embodiment shown is in the form of a roller shutter
10 and at least one appliance member 100. The screening device may also take other
forms, such as for instance other external screening devices, for instance awning
blinds, or internal screening devices such as Venetian blinds, pleated blinds or roller
blinds. The appliance member or appliance members, of which one appliance member 100
is shown in Fig. 11, are releasably connected to a top element 12 of the roller shutter
10. In addition to the top element 12, the roller shutter 10 has two side rails 13
and 14 extending at right angles to the top element 12, two mounting rails 15 and
16 extending in parallel with and below a respective side rail 13, 14, and a transverse
element 17 extending between the ends of the mounting rails 15 and 16 opposite the
ends at the top element 12. A shutter body 18 includes a plurality of slats 18a providing
the screening, and the ends of the slats 18a are guided in the side rails 13 and 14.
The invention is applicable to screening assemblies comprising screening devices having
similar configuration to the shown and described roller shutter, and is applicable
to other types of screening devices in the same category as the roller shutter, i.e.
exterior screening devices positioned on top of for instance a roof window and having
a screening body to be rolled out from the top element as well, such as for instance
an awning blind.
[0061] The roller shutter 10 is intended to be mounted on the exterior of the window 2,
for instance a roof window adapted for installation in an inclined roof. The window
comprises in a manner known per se a frame 3 and a sash 4 encasing a pane 5. The sash
4 will most often be openable relative to the frame, viz. hinge connected to the frame
3, as in the embodiment shown, for instance by means of a set of pivot hinges (not
shown) positioned close to a central axis of the window to allow the sash 3 to pivot
relative to the frame 2, or by a more traditional hinge positioned at the top of the
window. The roller shutter may be mounted on the window frame or on sash. In the embodiment
shown, the roller shutter 10 is mounted on the frame 3 in that the mounting rails
15 and 16 are fastened to a respective side piece of the frame 3. The side rails 13
and 14 are connected to the sash 4 such that the side rails 13 and 14, and consequently
the shutter body 18 and slats 18a, follow the tilting movement of the sash 4.
[0062] The aperture to be screened is defined by the area limited by the top element 12,
the side rails 13, 14, and the bottom of the window, that is the bottom piece of the
frame or sash of the window. This aperture thus corresponds in substance to the pane.
In order to attain the desired screening, the shutter body 18 is adapted to be moved
from a non-screening position to a screening position, in which it covers the pane
and other parts of the window to a larger or lesser degree. The shutter body 18 is
adapted to be wound up in and rolled out from the top element 12 by means of a driving
device, not shown, in a direction perpendicular to said longitudinal direction to
a screening position. Examples of driving devices in roller shutters and examples
of tiltable slats are disclosed in Applicant's co-pending international applications
published under Nos
WO2009/143842 and
WO2009/143853, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
[0063] The top element 12 is adapted to be positioned at the top of the window in the mounted
position, i.e. at the top piece of the frame and the sash of the window, and comprises
in the embodiment shown a top cover 21 and two outer end covers, of which the right-hand
end cover 22 is visible in Fig. 11. The top element 12 defines a longitudinal direction
in parallel with the top piece of the frame and sash of the window. Hence, this longitudinal
direction is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the slats and perpendicular
to the direction, in which the shutter body moves when rolling up and out the shutter
body.
[0064] Referring now to Figs 12, 13, and 19, the parts of the top element 12 will be described
in further detail.
[0065] As shown most clearly in Fig. 13, a track 23 is provided in the top element 12. In
the embodiment shown, the track 23 is a continuous track having a substantially dovetail-shaped
cross-sectional configuration as will be described in further detail below. The track
23 is, in the embodiment shown, provided in the top cover 21. During manufacturing
of the screening assembly, the appliance members 100 and 120 are positioned in the
track 23 by introducing them from one of the ends of the top cover 21 of the top element
12.
[0066] The top element 12 as such, and consequently the top cover 21 and outer end covers
22, serve to hide and protect the inner parts of the roller shutter 10, such as for
instance the drive mechanisms for the rolling up and unrolling of the shutter body
18 and other mechanisms, for instance mechanisms as described in any of Applicant's
above-mentioned international applications. Terms such as "left-hand" and "right-hand"
refer to the orientation shown in for instance Fig. 11 and are utilized for reasons
of convenience only. The top cover 21 is at each of its longitudinal ends connected
to an end element 20, cf. Fig. 19, which in the position of use of the screening assembly
1 is covered by the end cover 22. The end element 20 is to that end provided with
a plurality of abutment surfaces of which three abutment surfaces 201, 202 and 205
are indicated in Fig. 19. The track 23 of the top element 12, which in the embodiment
shown is provided in the top cover 21, is received in the space provided substantially
between abutment surfaces 202 and 205. In this area, there is a further abutment surface
203 on which an upstanding pin 204 is formed. The pin 204 cooperates (in a manner
not shown) with a corresponding aperture (not shown) in the top cover 21. Other configurations
of the top element 12 are of course conceivable; for instance, the top element could
be designed as moulded element including all of cover parts, or manufactured in another
manner, just as the track in the top element could be formed in any suitable manner.
[0067] The description of the formation of the track and engagement means in all of the
embodiments relating to the top element 12 of the screening device 10 relates equally
to the formation of the track in the window components.
[0068] Alternative embodiments of the top cover of the top element 12 will be described
with reference to Figs 14 to 18.
[0069] The releasable connection between the appliance member 100, or other appliance members,
and the top element 12 of the roller shutter 10 will be described with particular
reference to Figs 20 to 24.
[0070] As mentioned in the above description of Fig. 11, the screening assembly 1 comprises
the roller shutter 10 with its top element 12 defining a longitudinal direction x-x,
and at least one appliance member, in the embodiment shown one appliance member 100.
The appliance member 100 is releasably connected with the top element 12 of the roller
shutter in any suitable manner, examples of which will be described below. The top
cover 21 of the top element 12 includes an external track 23 extending in the longitudinal
direction x-x on the outer side of the top cover 21. The track 23 is adapted to receive
each appliance member and provides first engagement means for the releasable connection
with the appliance member 100 and other appliance members. As is apparent, the track
is positioned externally, the interior parts of the roller shutter are at no time
exposed during the above-mentioned operations, and the interior parts thus remain
protected by the top cover, which thus provides a substantially unaffected surface.
Notwithstanding the need to protect and hide the interior parts, slight or non-substantial
openings may be provided in the track. An upper surface 21a of the top cover 21 of
the top element 12 of the roller shutter 10 is slightly curved with a predefined radius
of curvature. Alternatively, the upper surface may be substantially plane, thus giving
the top cover a more L-shaped profile. The top cover 21 may be formed in any suitable
manner but in the embodiment shown, the top cover is shaped in a roll-forming operation.
[0071] The first engagement means for the releasable connection with the appliance member
100 are in the embodiment shown in Fig. 13 provided in the form of the shape of the
track 23. The track 23 has a bottom portion 24 positioned at a lower level, i.e. at
a level displayed inwards in the direction towards the interior of the top element
12, than the upper surface 21a of the top cover 21 of the top element 12 of the roller
shutter 10. From the bottom portion 24, the track 23 is narrowed at each longitudinal
side edge and ends in two opposite projecting portions 25 and 26, such that the distance
between the opposite projecting portions 25 and 26 is smaller than the width of the
bottom portion 24 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the
track 24. In this manner, a joint slightly resembling a dovetail joint is formed,
having abutment surface portions 27 and 28, respectively, formed below the opposite
projecting portions 25 and 26.
[0072] In its simplest form, the second engagement means are provided by giving the appliance
member a shape complementary to the first engagement means of the top element top
cover of the roller shutter. In the embodiment of the track 23 shown in Fig. 13, this
could for instance be provided by any of the versions of the appliance members shown
in Figs 20 to 24.
[0073] In Figs 20 and 21, an appliance member 110 in the form of a rain sensor is shown.
On each longitudinal side 110a and 110b, the appliance member 110 has second engagement
means 111, 112 for cooperation with the first engagement means of the track 23. The
second engagement means on the one longitudinal side 110a is in the form of one or
more, here three, protruding flaps 111 which, in the mounted position abut either
of the abutment surface portions 27, 28, depending on the orientation of the rain
sensor 110 in the track 23. On the other longitudinal side 110b, the second engagement
means take the form of two curved strips 112 having a slight resilient or springy
action. This means that the strips 112 act in two manners: One in positive engagement
with the other of the abutment surface portions 28, 27 of the track 23, and one resilient
contact with the wall portion of the track 23 between the bottom portion 24 and the
abutment surface portion 28. That is, by means of the strips 112, retention of the
rain sensor 110 in the track 23 is increased. The presence of the springy strips 112
makes it furthermore possible to mount the rain sensor 110 in the track 23 in two
manners: Either by inserting the rain sensor 110 into the track 23 in the longitudinal
direction from one end thereof, or by positioning the longitudinal side 110 with its
protruding flaps 111 below one of the opposite projecting portions 25 or 26, and then
pivot the rain sensor 110 while simultaneously pressing the strips 112 inwards towards
the longitudinal side 110b of the rain sensor 110 until the strips 112 are positioned
below the other of the opposite projecting portions 26 or 25, following which the
strips 112 automatically resume their relaxed condition shown in Fig. 21. The upper
surface 113a of the rain sensor 110 may be substantially plane or have a curvature
corresponding to that of the upper surface 21a of the top cover 21 of the top element
12 of the roller shutter 10. In the mounted position of the screening assembly, the
rain sensor 110 is kept in the track 23 partly by the mutually cooperation of the
engagement means as described in the above, but is also held in non-positive engagement
with the wall portions of the track by the friction between the engagement means 111,
112 and the wall portions. This means that for instance a rectangular track shape
as indicated in Fig. 14 may be used.
[0074] In Fig. 22, the appliance member 100 shown in Figs 11 and 12 is shown. This appliance
member is a solar cell panel 100 and is provided as a unit comprising a casing 101
and the actual solar cell panel elements 102. The casing 101 has second engagement
means corresponding to those of the rain sensor 110 shown in Figs 10 and 11, of which
a number of flaps 103 are shown. The upper surface 101a of the casing 101 may be flat
or plane, or have a curvature resembling that of the upper surface 21a of the top
cover 21 of the top element 12 of the roller shutter 10, whereas the upper surface
of the solar cell panel elements 102 may be plane.
[0075] In Fig. 23, the appliance member is a filling panel 120 having a profiling with an
upper surface 121a having a curvature similar to that of the upper surface 21a of
the top cover 21 of the top element 12 of the roller shutter 10. Longitudinally extending
flanges 122, 123 protrude from depending wall portions 124, 125 of the filling panel
120, the flanges 122, 123 forming the second engagement means cooperating with the
abutment surface portions 27 and 28 of the track 23.
[0076] Fig. 24 shows an example of a mounted position of the filling panel 120 in the track
23. This position is representative of all appliance members positioned in the track
of the top element in the embodiments in which the upper surface of each appliance
member is flush with the upper surface of the top element of the roller shutter. As
described, the term "flush" is to be interpreted within the defined context as allowing
for slight variations in the respective levels of the top element and the appliance
member, as long as a viewer does not conceive any conspicuous difference.
[0077] Other examples of positive engagement are possible with the embodiments of Figs 15
and 16, in which the first engagement means of the tracks 523 and 623 of the top covers
521 and 621 are formed as one part of a dovetail joint or a tongue-and-groove joint,
respectively.
[0078] Other cross-sectional shapes of the track are possible, cf. the rectangular track
423 of the top cover 421 of Fig. 14 and the U-shaped track 723 of the top cover 721
of Fig. 17. These tracks do not allow for positive engagement, at least not without
modification, but require non-positive engagement means such as for instance friction
(rectangular track 423), VELCRO®, releasable adhesives, magnets etc. In case of the
rectangular track 423, it may be possible to retain the engagement by the use of second
engagement means as described in connection with the embodiment of Figs 20 and 21.
[0079] Additional or alternative forms of releasable connection between the top element
and the at least one appliance member other than the shown external track are of course
conceivable. For instance, the releasable connection may be provided by a set of protruding
and/or upstanding flaps or flanges on either the top element or the appliance member
or members to engage releasably with a corresponding accommodating aperture or slit
on the other of the appliance member(s) and top element. Furthermore, such releasable
connection in the form of one or more protruding flaps or flanges to engage with an
aperture or slit may be combined with the track of the embodiments shown and described,
such that the upstanding and/or protruding flap(s) or flange(s) is/are provided in
the longitudinally extending track itself.
[0080] Referring now to Fig. 18, the track 823 of the top cover 821 may be provided with
an electrically conducting coating and/or separate strips 824 and 825 as indicated.
[0081] In the case of electrically conducting coatings and/or strips, it is particularly
advantageous that the coating or separate strips are positioned as shown, namely on
surfaces of the track facing downwards. Any moisture that might intrude below the
appliance member or members mounted in the track is thus not able to reach the coating
or separate strips, or at least it is rendered more difficult for moisture getting
into contact with the coating or separate strips. The appliance member or members
would in that case be provided with corresponding electrical wiring. Other forms of
electrical conductors are conceivable as well, for instance conductors extending transversely
to the track of the top element. The appliance member or members would then be provided
with for instance carbon contacts to cooperate with the conductor of the top element.
The wiring may for instance be provided in the track itself. This presupposes that
the track is formed to accommodate the wiring, for instance by being deeper than strictly
necessary to receive the appliance member itself.
[0082] Other examples of appliance members are solar cell panels, photovoltaic elements,
power storage elements, such as capacitors or accumulators, members providing lighting,
such as LCD and OLED, filling panels, screening devices, members adapted for carrying
information, sign boards, name plates, advertising signs, sensor and transducer elements.
[0083] In addition to the use of electrically conducting coatings and/or strips, coatings
or strips that are adhesive may also be utilized in the track. Such adhesive may for
instance be ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) due to its low-temperature toughness, stress-crack
resistance, hot-melt adhesive water proof properties, resistance to UV radiation,
and heat-conducting properties. The latter property is particularly advantageous in
connection with the use of solar cell panels or other heat-generating appliance members,
as the generated heat may then easily be transferred to other parts of the top element
and the roller shutter as such to prevent local overheating.
[0084] In a not-shown embodiment, the screening assembly may be provided in a well-defined
delivery state in which the appliance member is a filling panel extending substantially
throughout the length of the top cover of the roller shutter top element.
[0085] Alternatively, the screening assembly may, for instance as shown in Fig. 12, be provided
in a delivery state in which one appliance member is a solar cell panel 100 and another
appliance member is a filling panel 120. This meets the most common demand for appliance
members in screening assemblies comprising an electrically operated roller shutter.
Solar cell panels renders the wiring much less complicated than roller shutters operated
by motors supplied by power from for instance the interior of the building, and also
meet the increasing requirements to use of sustainable energy sources.
[0086] Such solar cell panels may be used for supplying power to various units, one of which
is the above-mentioned direct supply of an electrically operated roller shutter. Appliance
members such as a further solar cell panel may be connected to the track of the roller
shutter as well, for instance for supplying power to a chargeable battery located
within the top element of the roller shutter and acting as a back-up power supply
to the electrically operated roller shutter during extended periods of overcast or
rainy weather.
[0087] It is conceivable to provide an entire kit of appliance members for use with a screening
assembly in any of the above-mentioned two delivery states. This is particularly the
case if it is desirable to upgrade a manually operated roller shutter to an electrically
operated roller shutter. The kit may comprise a solar cell panel (or an additional
solar cell panel, as the case may be) and a rain sensor.
[0088] As indicated in Figs 12 and 23 the filling panel 120 is provided with a number of
weakening lines 126 and 127, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction x-x at distances
corresponding to a predefined size of the appliance member or members. Depending on
the releasable connection chosen, weakening lines extending along the edges of the
filling panel parallel to the longitudinal direction are conceivable as well.
[0089] Eventually, referring to Fig. 25 a further embodiment of the window system according
to the invention is shown. As in the above, the window system comprises a window 2
having a window component in the form of a top casing 2001, in which an appliance
member 100 is releasbly attached in a track (not shown in detail). The window system
furthermore comprises an internal screening assembly comprising a screening device
11, for instance in the form of an electrically operated blind, having a bottom element
11a, to which a screening body 11b is fastened at an end edge. The opposite end edge
of the screening body 11b is fastened to a top element 11c which may either be mounted
stationarily at the top of the window frame or sash, or be movable manually. In the
bottom element 11a of the internal screening device 11, an appliance member 100 is
releasably mounted in a track. The appliance member 100 of the internal screening
device 11 may typically be a solar cell panel providing the power to operate the blind.
As in the above embodiments, the appliance member 100 of the internal screening device
11 is interchangeable with appliance members of other parts of the window system,
i.e. components of the window itself, with an external screening assembly, or with
another internal screening assembly.
[0090] The invention should not be regarded as being limited to the embodiments shown in
the drawings and described in the above. Various modifications and combinations may
be carried out within the scope of the appended claims.
1. A window system comprising:
a window (2) including a number of components,
a screening assembly (1) including a screening device (10), and
at least one appliance member (100),
wherein at least one of said number of components of the window includes at least
one track, and said screening device being provided with at least one track, and
wherein said at least one appliance member (100) is interchangeable between a track
of the at least one window component and a track of the screening device (10), each
at least one appliance member being received in a track of the window component or
the screening device in a releasable connection.
2. A window system according to claim 1, wherein the window component including at least
one track is a cover element selected from the group comprising: window top cover,
window bottom cover, and window side cover.
3. A window system according to claim 2, wherein the window top cover defines a length
and a first longitudinal direction corresponding to a width direction of the window,
and wherein the window top cover is provided with an external longitudinal track.
4. A window system according to claim 3, wherein the external longitudinal track is provided
in a separate adapter element of the window top cover.
5. A window system according to claim 2, wherein the window bottom cover defines a length
and a first longitudinal direction corresponding to a width direction of the window,
and wherein the window bottom cover is provided with an external longitudinal track.
6. A window system according to claim 5, wherein the external longitudinal track is provided
in a separate adapter element of the window bottom cover.
7. A window system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the screening
device comprises a roller shutter (10) having a top element (12) defining a length
and a longitudinal direction, two side rails (13, 14) extending at right angles to
the top element (12), and a shutter body (18) including a plurality of slats (18a)
providing the screening, ends of the slats (18a) being guided in the side rails (13,
14), said top element (12) being adapted to be connected with at least one appliance
member (100, 110; 120), and wherein said top element includes an external track (23;
423; 523; 623; 723; 823) extending in the longitudinal direction on the outer side
of said top element, said track being adapted to receive each said at least one appliance
member, that said track (23) has a bottom portion (24) positioned at a level inwards
in the direction towards the interior of the top element (12) relative to an upper
surface (21a) of the top element (12), said top element (12) preferably including
a top cover (21; 421; 521; 621; 721; 821), and said external track (23; 423; 523;
623; 723; 823) being preferably formed in the top cover.
8. A window system according to claim 7, wherein each track has an extension which is
less than the length of the corresponding window component or screening device and/or
is composed by a number of track parts located at a mutual distance from each other
in a longitudinal direction of the component or screening device.
9. A window system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said track provides
first engagement means for the releasable connection with the at least one appliance
member, and said at least one appliance member is provided with second engagement
means that are complementary to the first engagement means of the window component
or screening device.
10. A window system according to claim 9, wherein said first and second engagement means
are adapted to provide releasable connection by means of positive engagement between
the window component or screening device and the at least one appliance member, preferably
by that the first and second engagement means include mutually cooperating parts of
a dovetail joint or a tongue-and-groove joint.
11. A window system according to claim 10, wherein said first and second engagement means
are adapted to provide releasable connection by means of non-positive engagement.
12. A window system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein supplemental
locking means are provided.
13. A window system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the releasable
connection between the window component or screening device and the at least one appliance
member comprises a set of protruding and/or upstanding flaps or flanges on either
the window component or screening device, or the appliance member or members to engage
releasably with a corresponding accommodating aperture or slit on the other of the
appliance member(s) and window component or screening device, preferably by that the
upstanding and/or protruding flap(s) or flange(s) is/are provided in the track itself.
14. A window system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least
one appliance member is selected from the group comprising solar cell panels, photovoltaic
elements, power storage elements, such as capacitors or accumulators, members providing
lighting, such as LCD and OLED, filling panels, members adapted for carrying information,
sign boards, name plates, advertising signs, sensor and transducer elements.
15. A window system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the upper surface
of each at least one appliance member is substantially flush with the upper surface
of the window component or screening device.
16. A method for upgrading a window system, comprising the steps of:
providing a window including a number of components,
providing at least one track in at least one of said number of components,
providing a screening assembly including a screening device with at least one track,
providing at least one appliance member,
receiving at least one appliance member in a track of the window component or the
screening device in a releasable connection, and
interchanging said at least one appliance member between a track of the at least one
window component and a track of the screening device.