WINDOW MODULE WITH IMPROVED LIFTING ASSEMBLY, AND ROOF LIGHT SYSTEM COMPRISING SUCH A WINDOW MODULE AS A CEILING MODULE

Abstract

 In the window module (5) a lifting assembly (10) provides modulation of the movement of the sash (53) relative to the frame (51) when the sash (53) is swung out of the window module plane from a closed position to an open position and back. The lifting assembly (10) comprises a frame base plate (11) connected to the frame (51), a sash base plate (12) connected to the sash (53), a linkage mechanism including a main link (13) connected to the frame base plate (11) in a first hinged joint (131), and a sash link (14) connected to the sash base plate (12) in a sash-side hinged joint (141). The sash link (14) is connected to the main link (13) in a second hinged joint (132), and a spring device (15) having two ends is provided and connected at one end to the main link (13) in a third hinged joint (133) and at the other end (151) connected to the frame base plate (11) or the frame (51) of the window module (5) in a frame-side hinged joint (151).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a window module comprising a frame defining a length and a width of the window module in a window module plane, and a sash with a pane, said sash being hinged to the frame in a hinge connection defining a hinge axis and allowing the sash to swing out of the window module plane from a closed position to an open position about the hinge axis, and a lifting assembly configured to modulate the swinging movement of the sash. The invention furthermore relates to a roof light system comprising such a window module.

Background Art

[0002] Operation of window modules take place in a variety of manners, depending among other things on the orientation and opening possibilities of the sash of the window module. For instance, in window modules located vertically in a mounted condition and with a vertical hinge axis as in a traditional façade window, relatively low operational forces are required; however, a lifting assembly can have other functions in such a window including assisting in the opening and closing of the sash. In window modules installed for instance in an inclined roof surface, or horizontally, the requirements on the user can be quite substantial. This is particularly pronounced if the hinge axis is located at a side or end member of the window module, rather than at the centre, and if the requirements to insulating properties of the pane of the sash are high and the weight of the sash consequently substantial.

[0003] One contemplated field of application of such a window module is as a ceiling module in a roof light system, which is provided to an interior building room without direct access to the roof to provide incident light. In rooms in the building which are separated from the roof surface by a ceiling, façade windows are typically applied as there is no immediate access to the roof surface, or only artificial light if the room has no access to an outer wall. However, due to the inclined position in the roof, roof windows provide for more light than a corresponding façade window and most often provide an unhindered view of the sky.

[0004] As the incidence of natural light is desirable for several reasons, it has been sought to provide access to natural light also to an interior room with a ceiling, typically located in the ground floor of the house. Thus, it is known to provide a roof light system with a light conduit extending from a top unit located in or at the roof surface to a bottom unit positioned in the ceiling of the interior room. Examples of prior art roof light systems are found in Applicant's European patents EP 1 756 481 B1, EP 1756482 B1 and EP 1 841 931 B1, which also provide for ventilation solutions, and from US 5,613,333, US 6,604,329, and US 2005/0081462 A1. Even though these arrangements provide for viable solutions, the provision of the light conduit which must be installed in the roof structure renders the installation cumbersome and costly. It is furthermore a concern that the light conduit passes through the loft which is most often not well insulated.

[0005] In providing a well-insulated ceiling module, several advantages are achieved, but the challenge of providing smooth operation during opening and closing of the sash of the ceiling module ensues.

Summary of Invention

[0006] With this background, it is therefore an object of the invention to provide a window module by which the operation is facilitated.

[0007] In a first aspect of the invention, this and further objects are achieved with a window module of the kind mentioned in the introduction which is furthermore characterised in the features of the characterising portion of claim 1.

[0008] By incorporating a lifting assembly with a linkage mechanism and a spring device, it is possible to provide the desired pattern of movement while at the same time facilitating operation during opening and closing of the sash. During the movement of the lifting assembly from the first position, corresponding to the closed position of the sash of the window module, to the second position, corresponding to an open position of the sash, the lifting assembly modulates the movement of the sash. Depending on the intended opening movement of the sash of the window module, the spring device is biased in one or both of the first and second positions. When the window module according to the invention is provided for use as a ceiling module in a roof light system, and the sash opens inwards into the interior building room, it is thus possible to arrange for the spring device to increase its bias during the opening movement such that the closing movement is assisted by the release of the bias.

[0009] In a presently preferred embodiment, the spring device comprises a pressurised cylinder device comprising a gas spring with a cylinder and a piston rod. A gas spring is an advantageous alternative to mechanical tensioning means such as a spring, as it is possible to control the spring characteristics closely, while at the same time being self-supporting and of a relatively slender design. In an advantageous development of this preferred embodiment, the gas spring has a dampening effect.

[0010] In a further development of this preferred embodiment, the frame-side hinged joint is connected to the cylinder and the third hinged joint of the main link to the piston rod of the gas spring, the frame-side hinged joint being preferably connected to the frame of the window module. This provides for a robust and well-functioning design.

[0011] Alternatively, and to allow for flexibility in the selection and design of components, the frame-side hinged joint may be connected to the piston rod and the third hinged joint of the main link to the cylinder of the gas spring, the third hinged joint of the main link being preferably connected to the cylinder of the gas spring via an extension plate, more preferably via an angled connection flange.

[0012] In a still further development of the preferred embodiment, the frame-side hinged joint is connected to the frame base plate. This allows for the lifting assembly to be provided as an individual unit, which is particularly advantageous in terms of retrofitting of an existing window module.

[0013] Depending on the field of application of the window module, including the installation situations, the lifting assembly may allow for an arbitrary opening angle of the sash of the window module. In a presently preferred embodiment, the lifting assembly is configured to assume a second position in which the sash of the window module is swung out of the window module plane to a maximum opening angle of substantially 90°.

[0014] Preferably, locking means are provided for locking the sash of the window module in the maximum opening angle. This prevents unintentional closure of the sash from the open position and thus provides for increased safety.

[0015] Such locking means may comprise a lock hole in the main link, a lock hole in the frame base plate and a screw in the frame, and wherein the screw may be screwed out of the frame and into the lock hole in the main link when the lock hole in the main link and the lock hole in the frame base plate are in an overlapping position in the maximum opening angle of the sash of the window module. This provides for a simple, mechanical solution which satisfies the need for easy and accessible locking of the sash in the open position. Alternatives to a screw are conceivable, for instance including a locking pin.

[0016] Alternatively, the lifting assembly furthermore comprises a guide link connected to the main link in a fourth hinged joint, the guide link being provided with a straight track portion and an angled lock track portion for receiving a pin on the frame base plate, said angled lock track portion being engageable with the pin in the maximum opening angle of the sash of the window module by rotation of the guide link. The engagement between the angled lock track portion and the pin may be a locking engagement. This provides for particularly easy locking of the sash in the open position.

[0017] In order to provide for safe operation of the window module, means may be provided for limiting the movement of the lifting assembly and in turn the sash in the maximum opening angle. This prevents over-opening of the sash, which is desirable in certain installation situations.

[0018] Such movement limiting means may be provided by the angled track portion in embodiments comprising an angled track portion. This provides for a particularly safe operation.

[0019] Alternatively, the movement limiting means are provided by an end stop on the frame base plate cooperating with a guide pin on the main link, and optionally, said frame base plate is provided with an arc-shaped guide edge, the guide pin being preferably received in an arc-shaped track in a member of the frame. This provides for a mechanically simple, yet reliable structure.

[0020] To ensure safe transportation and installation of the window module, means may be provided for limiting the movement of the lifting assembly in a supply condition.

[0021] The movement limiting means may be provided by a first end stop at one end of the arc-shaped guide edge for limiting the movement of the lifting assembly in the first position, and a second end stop for limiting the movement of the lifting assembly in the second position.

[0022] In order to ascertain that the lifting assembly remains within the limited space generally allowed in such window modules, means may be provided for controlling the movement of the linkage mechanism and the spring device in a direction perpendicular to the frame base plate.

[0023] While the configuration of the spring device may in principle take any suitable form, it is presently preferred that the spring device is arranged as a pressure spring and the bias of the spring device is more relaxed in the first position of the lifting assembly corresponding to the closed position of the sash of the window module and tensioned in the second position corresponding to an open position of the sash. In this way, the spring device assists in the closing of the sash, which is particularly advantageous in installation situations in which the sash needs to counteract gravity during the closing movement.

[0024] In a further development of this presently preferred embodiment, the lifting assembly is connected to only the frame of the window module in a supply condition of the window module, and assuming a position, with the spring device in its relaxed condition, the sash being preferably configured to be connected to the frame at the hinge connection in the supply condition and is opened to an intermediate condition, and the lifting assembly is configured to be brought from its first position to its second position before connection to the sash of the window module in the intermediate condition of the sash, preferably by means of a tool insertable into an opening in the sash base plate. This provides for particularly easy and safe installation of the window module.

[0025] Preferably, the sash base plate is provided with a set of spigots to be received in a corresponding set of apertures in a member of the sash of the window module, said set of apertures being preferably provided in a recess. In this way, the mounting of the sash base plate is made logical and unmistakeable.

[0026] In one embodiment, the sash link and/or the main link is/are provided with an offset. This makes it possible to reduce the overall thickness of the lifting assembly while still ensuring appropriate movement of the components.

[0027] In a second aspect of the invention, a roof light system is provided, in which the window module according to the first aspect constitutes a ceiling module and in which the sash is configured to be opened into the interior building room.

[0028] Other presently preferred embodiments and further advantages will be apparent from the subsequent detailed description and drawings.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0029] In the following description embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the schematic drawings, in which

Fig. 1 is an isometric view of a roof structure, with the roofing removed for clarity, and in which a roof light system in an embodiment of the invention is shown in its mounted position;

Fig. 2 is a side view of the roof light system of Fig. 1;

Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of details of a roof light system in an embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 4 is a perspective view of a window module in a first embodiment of the invention, in which the sash of the window module is in an open position;

Fig. 5 is a view corresponding to Fig. 4, from another angle, with parts of the lifting device being shown in a break-away section of the frame of the window module;

Fig. 6 is a partial perspective view, on a larger scale, of details of the window module of Fig. 4;

Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of details of a frame of the window module forming a ceiling module, and a shaft arrangement of an embodiment of the roof light system according to the invention, in the mounted condition;

Figs 8 and 9 are cross-sectional views of the window module in the first embodiment of the invention, with the lifting assembly in a first and a second position, corresponding to a closed and an open position of the sash of the window module, sash removed for clarity;

Fig. 10 is a perspective view of a tool of an embodiment of the roof light system for use with the window module of Figs 8 and 9;

Figs 11 to 13 are perspective views of the lifting assembly in the first embodiment of the window module according to the invention, in a first, intermediate and second position, respectively;

Fig. 14 is a plan view, on a larger scale, of a detail of the lifting assembly in Fig. 13;

Fig. 15 is a view corresponding to Fig. 4 of the window module with a second embodiment of the lifting assembly;

Figs 16 to 18 are cross-sectional views of the window module in the second embodiment of Fig. 15, with the lifting assembly in a first, an intermediate and a second position, respectively, corresponding to a closed, an open position and a maximum open position of the sash of the window module, sash removed for clarity;

Fig. 19 is a partial perspective view, on a larger scale, of a corner of the window module in the second embodiment shown in Fig. 18;

Fig. 20 is a view corresponding to Fig. 19 of a corner of the window module in a third embodiment; and

Fig. 21 is a break-out view of details of Fig. 20.

Description of Embodiments

[0030] In the figures of the drawings, embodiments of a window module and a roof light system according to the invention are shown. Initially, a roof light system generally designated 1 and comprising a window module according to the invention forming a ceiling module 5 of the roof light system 1 will be described. The terms window module and ceiling module will be used alongside each other. The window module according to the invention can also be used in other arrangements, including stand-alone, and in all conceivable orientations other than the shown horizontal, with a sash 53 of the window module 5 opening downwards.

[0031] Referring now to Fig. 1, the roof light system 1 is shown in a mounted condition in a roof structure of an inclined roof generally designated 2 within a framework of trusses 21, 22, 23, 24, counter-battens 25, battens 26 and a vapour barrier 27. The trusses 21, 22, 23, 24 form, in a manner known per se, the load-bearing structure of the roofing (not shown) and the counter-battens 25 are arranged in parallel to the trusses, either on the same line as the trusses or offset therefrom. In the shown figure the battens 26 of the roof 2 are arranged perpendicularly to the counter-battens 25, yet the arrangement thereof can also be in any other plane direction. The roof light system 1 can be mounted centrally in the roof 2, as shown in the drawing figures, or at the top edge of the roof 2, at the lower part of the roof 2 or at the outer edges of the roof 2. There may be more than one roof light system 1 installed in the inclined roof 2.

[0032] Turning now to Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, an overview of the components of the roof light system 1 is shown. The roof light system 1 is configured to provide a light conduit between the inclined roof 2 of a building and an interior building room 3 with a ceiling 31. The roof light system 1 comprises a roof module 4 with a roof module frame 41 and a roof module pane 42. The roof module frame 41 defines a length LRM and a width WRM of the roof module in a roof module plane and is configured to be mounted in a surface of the roof 2, e.g. connected to counter-battens 25 and/or the battens 26 by means of mounting brackets (not shown). In the mounted condition, the roof module plane is substantially parallel to the surface of the roof 2.

[0033] As mentioned in the above, the roof light system 1 further has a ceiling module 5 with a ceiling module frame 51 and a ceiling module pane 52. The ceiling module frame 51 defines a length LCM and a width WCM of the ceiling module 5 in a ceiling module plane and is configured to be mounted in the ceiling 31, e.g. connected to the trusses 21, 22, 23 and 24. In the mounted position, the ceiling module plane is substantially parallel to the ceiling 31.

[0034] In the shown embodiment, the roof light system 1 further comprises a shaft arrangement 6 extending between the roof module 4 and the ceiling module 5. In the mounted condition, said shaft comprises two side sections 61, 62, a first end section 63 and a second end section 64. Each side section 61, 62 has a top edge portion 611 with a length substantially corresponding to a length of the roof module which is in connection with the roof module 4. The side sections 61, 62 also comprise a bottom edge portion 612 with a length substantially corresponding to a length of the ceiling module 5 being connected to the ceiling module 5. Each side section 61, 62 further has a first side edge portion 613 and a second side edge portion 614 for connection with the first and second end sections 63, 64. Each of the first and second end sections 63, 64 has a top edge, a bottom edge, and two side edges. The end sections 63, 64 and the side sections 61, 62 in the mounted state form a shaft between the roof module 4 and the ceiling module 5.

[0035] To support the shaft arrangement 6 in the mounted condition, the roof light system 1 furthermore comprises a support assembly 7. Components forming part of the support assembly 7 comprise brackets 72, 73 and corner posts 81, 83.

[0036] Referring now in particular to Fig. 4, the configuration of the ceiling module 5 will be described in more detail and will in the following be referred to as a window module 5 in a first embodiment.

[0037] The terms "left-hand", "right-hand" etc. are used for facilitating the reading and is not to be considered limiting. In the present context, the left-hand side is the side of the roof light system seen from the inside and in the direction from the high end to the low end. Correspondingly, when referring to the members of the window module frame and sash, terms such as "side member", "first end member", "second end member" are used for denoting directions only.

[0038] The window module 5 comprises a frame 51 and a sash 53 provided with a pane 52 and hinged to the frame 51 in a hinge connection 54 defining a hinge axis and allowing the sash 53 to swing out of the window module plane from a closed position to an open position about the hinge axis. A lifting assembly 10 is configured to modulate the swinging movement of the sash 53. Terms such as "lifting" and "modulate" are intended to be interpreted in their broadest scope and encompass movements including swinging upwards, downwards and sideward, and that the movements are balanced in the broadest sense, assisted, dampened, braked or checked.

[0039] The frame 51 of the ceiling module 5 comprises two side members 511, 513 and first and second end members 512, 514. The sash 53 of the ceiling module 5 comprises two side members 531, 533 and first and second end members 532, 534 wherein the hinge connection 54 is connected to a set of side members 511, 531 of the frame 51 and the sash 53, respectively. The hinge connection 54 comprises a frame hinge part 541 and a sash hinge part 542.

[0040] Referring briefly to Fig. 7, other details of the ceiling module 5 at the ceiling are shown, including connecting means for the corresponding section of the shaft arrangement comprising a groove profile 55 and a compression profile 56. Furthermore, a trim profile 57 is provided, connected to the ceiling module frame 51 by a set of clips 68. Finally, a ceiling trim frame 59 is connected to the ceiling module frame 51 to span the transition to the ceiling 31 in the mounted condition.

[0041] A lifting assembly 10 is in the embodiment shown connected to each first and second end member 512, 514 of the frame 51 of the ceiling module 5, and is connected or connectable to the sash 53 of the ceiling module 5 as will be described in more detail below. In principle, only one lifting assembly 10 could be present. Likewise, the lifting assembly or lifting assemblies could be located at the side member(s) of the frame and sash in case the hinge connection is located at the first or second end member.

[0042] The lifting assembly 10 comprises a frame base plate 11 configured to be connected to the frame 51, a sash base plate 12 configured to be connected to the sash 53, a linkage mechanism including a main link 13 connected to the frame base plate 11 in a first hinged joint 131, and a sash link 14 connected to the sash base plate 12 in a sash-side hinged joint 141. In the embodiment shown in the drawings, the main link 13 has a generally triangular plate-shaped configuration, but other shapes are conceivable.

[0043] The sash link 14 is connected to the main link 13 in a second hinged joint 132. Here, the sash link 14 has the form of a substantially straight, plane plate element.

[0044] A spring device 15 having two ends is provided and connected at one end to the main link 13 in a third hinged joint 133 and at the other end configured to be connected to the frame base plate 11 or the frame 51 of the window module 5 in a frame-side hinged joint 151. The spring device 15 may in principle have any configuration extending between two ends, but is typically linear with a substantially longer length than cross-sectional dimensions.

[0045] The lifting assembly 10 is configured to assume a first position corresponding to the closed position of the sash 53 of the window module 5 and be moved to a second position corresponding to the open position of the sash 53. In order to modulate the movement of the sash 53, the spring device 15 is biased in at least one of the first and second positions. In the configuration shown in the drawings, the sash 53 opens downwards, and the lifting assembly 10 is here configured to assist in the closing movement to facilitate the operation. To this end, the spring device 15 is configured to be biased during the opening movement and then to release the accumulated energy during the closing movement. In the embodiment shown, the lifting assembly 10 also dampens the movement of the sash 53 during opening. The dampening provided by the lifting assembly is advantageously provided in that the spring device 15 has a dampening effect on the movement between the first and second positions, and/or vice versa.

[0046] In principle, the lifting assembly 10 could rely on mechanical tensioning means such as a pressure spring. In the embodiments shown in the drawings, however, the spring device comprises a pressurised cylinder of a suitable kind, in particular a gas spring 15. A gas spring is known to have excellent performance in pushing as well as pulling actions, and it is also possible to incorporate a dampening effect. The dampening effect provides for an improved user experience. This applies during normal operation of the window module 5, i.e. when opening and closing the sash 53, which is able to be performed in smooth movements. The dampened gas spring 15 also has a vital function when the lifting assembly 10 is to be connected to the sash 53 and hence to the frame 51 in the procedure of bringing the window module 5 from its supply condition to a mounted condition, corresponding to normal use of the window module 5, as will be described in further detail below.

[0047] Turning now to Figs 8 to 14, details of the lifting assembly in a presently preferred embodiment will be described. In particular, Fig. 11 indicates a majority of the components of the lifting assembly 10, whereas reference numerals are not present in all of the other figures for ease of readability. As shown, the gas spring 15 is provided with a cylinder 152 and a piston rod 153.

[0048] In this embodiment, the frame-side hinged joint 151 is connected to the piston rod 153 and the third hinged joint 133 of the main link 13 to the cylinder 152 of the gas spring 15.

[0049] The third hinged joint 133 of the main link 13 is connected to the cylinder 152 of the gas spring 15 via an extension plate 154. In order to allow the components of the linkage mechanism and the spring device to move relative to each other, the extension plate 154 is proved with an angled connection flange 155 which forms the connection at one end of the gas spring 15.

[0050] The frame base plate 11 of the first embodiment has such dimensions that the remaining components of the lifting assembly 10 located in within the contours of the frame base plate 11 in the first position of the lifting assembly 10 as shown in Fig. 8. Thus, in this embodiment the frame-side hinged joint 151 is connected to the frame base plate 11. The lifting assembly 10 of the first embodiment may thus be provided as a coherent unit, and either be connected to the first end member 512 of the frame 51 of the module 5 in the supply condition, or be connected to the frame 51 at the site of installation. Even though the window module 5 may be delivered as a unit including the frame 51, the sash 53 and the lifting assembly 10 connected to the frame 51 and to the sash 51, it is preferred that it is possible to disassemble the sash 53 from the frame 51 in order to facilitate other installation work.

[0051] Referring in particular to the details of Figs 8 and 11, the lifting assembly 10 may be connected to only the frame 51 of the window module 5 in a supply condition of the window module 5. Thus, during transportation of the window module 5, which typically takes place in a cardboard box, the frame base plate 11 is connected to the first end member 512 of the frame 5. Another lifting assembly 10 may be present at the second end member 514. The gas spring 15 is only connected to the other components of the lifting assembly 10 at its cylinder end, that is to the extension plate 154 and in turn to the third hinge joint 133 of the main link 13. The frame-side hinged joint 151 is not yet connected to the frame base plate 11 and is temporarily held to the frame base plate 11 by a clip or strips. The sash base plate 12, the main link 13 and the sash link 14 are only bound by the respective hinged joints 141, 132 and 133 but without any bias from the gas spring 15. These components may be positioned in an appropriate manner relative to other parts of the window module 5, for instance the sash base plate 12 may be placed on top of the sash 53. In order to bring the lifting assembly 10 to the position shown in Figs 8 and 11, and thus its first position, the frame-side hinged joint 151 of the gas spring is released from any temporary holding means and connected to the first end member 512 of the frame 5. It is noted that it is only after connection of the lifting assembly 10 also to the sash 53 that the lifting assembly assumes the position shown in Fig. 8.

[0052] In order to connect the sash 53 to the frame 51, the sash hinge part 542 is connected to the frame hinge part 541 in the hinge connection 54 in a first step. Subsequently, or in a separate step, the lifting assembly 10 is brought from its position at the second end member 514 of the frame 51 to its second position as shown in Fig. 9 before connection to the sash 53 of the window module 5. As this entails that the spring device 15 is biased from its relaxed position, moving the linkage mechanism and the spring device requires that some force is exerted. To assist in bringing the lifting assembly to the second position of Fig. 9, a tool 17 as shown in Fig. 10 may be provided, including a hook 171 and a handle portion 172. The hook 171 is used to inserted into an opening 127 in the sash base plate 12 and then pull downwards. As the forces provided by the spring device 15 may be substantial, bringing the lifting assembly 10 from its first position to its second position may require some effort. In this operation, it is of value if the spring device 15 has a dampening effect, as this will soften the movement considerably.

[0053] To connect the lifting assembly 10 to the sash 53 of the window module 5, the sash base plate 12 is provided with a set of spigots 126 to be received in a corresponding set of apertures 536 in a member 533 of the sash 53 of the window module 5. As shown in Fig. 6, the set of apertures 536 is provided in a recess 535.

[0054] During operation of the window module 5 in the mounted condition, the sash 53 is rotated about the hinge axis defined by the hinge 54, out of the window module plane, and downwards in the embodiment of the roof light system shown. The linkage mechanism of the lifting assembly 10 moves in substantially the following manner during opening of the sash 53: The sash base plate 12 follows the sash member 53 in the opening movement in the clockwise direction in Figs 11 to 13. The sash link 14 rotates counter-clockwise relative to the sash base plate 12 as it is connected to the sash-sided hinged joint 141 at one end and to the second hinged joint 132 of the main link 13 at the other end. The main link 13 rotates in the clockwise direction about the first hinged joint 131 in which the main link 13 is connected to the frame base plate 131.

[0055] In the embodiments shown in the drawings, the spring device in the form of gas spring 15 is arranged as a pressure spring and the bias of the gas spring 15 is more relaxed in the first position of the lifting assembly 10 corresponding to the closed position of the sash 53 of the window module 5 and tensioned in the second position corresponding to an open position of the sash 53, as the gas spring 15 is biased during the opening movement of the sash 53.

[0056] The spring device, here the gas spring 15, is compressed during opening, as its connection to the main link 13, here via the extension plate 154 and the angled connection flange 155, namely the third hinged joint 133 moves to the right in these drawing figures.

[0057] Comparing Figs 11, 12, and 13, it is also seen that a major part of the travel of the piston rod 153 occurs in the initial stages of the opening movement, and conversely, in the final stages of the closing movement. In other words, the gearing of the linking assembly 10 is higher at small angles between the sash 53 and the window module plane.

[0058] As the space between the sash 53 and the frame 51 is limited, but the components of the lifting assembly 10 need to be able to move relative to each other, the sash link 14 is provided with an offset 142. Furthermore, a recess 515 may be present in the end members 512 and 514 frame member as shown in Fig. 5.

[0059] In the alternative, second embodiment of the window module 5 shown in Figs 15 to 19, the lifting assembly 10 is of a more simple configuration. All principal components are the same as in the above embodiments though, and only differences will be described in detail. Elements having the same or analogous function will be denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0060] One difference is that the frame-side hinged joint 151 is connected to the cylinder 152 and the third hinged joint 133 of the main link 13 to the piston rod 153 of the gas spring 15.

[0061] The frame base plate 11 of the lifting assembly 10 in the second embodiment has smaller dimensions than the counterpart frame base plate of the first embodiment. Thus, the frame-side hinged joint 151 is configured to be connected to the frame 51 of the window module 5, rather than to the frame base plate 11.

[0062] Referring to the detailed view of Fig. 19, it is shown how, in the second embodiment, the main link 13 is provided with an offset 136. A further detail visible in Fig. 19 is an opening 113 in the frame base plate 11 for a trim clip 58.

[0063] In a further, third embodiment of the window module 5 shown in Figs 20 and 21, the lifting assembly 10 is of substantially the same configuration as in the second embodiment. All principal components are the same as in the above embodiments though, and only differences will be described in detail. Elements having the same or analogous function will be denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0064] In this embodiment, the main link 13 is provided with a guide pin 137 which is received in an arc-shaped track 516 in the first end member 512 of the frame 51. Further details of Figs 20 and 21 will be described below.

[0065] Common to the above embodiments is that the lifting assembly 10 is configured to assume a second position in which the sash 53 of the window module 5 is swung out of the window module plane to a maximum opening angle of substantially 90°.

[0066] In order to ensure that the sash 53 stays in place in maximum opening position, locking means are provided in both embodiments for locking the sash 53 of the window module 5 in the maximum opening angle.

[0067] In the second embodiment, the locking means comprise a lock hole 135 in the main link 13 and a lock hole 112 in the frame base plate 11. A screw, not shown, is screwed into the first end member 512 of the frame 51 at the lock hole 112 in the frame base plate 11. Once the locking assembly 10 has assumed the position shown in Fig. 19 in the maximum opening angle of the sash 53 of the window module 5, the lock hole 135 in the main link 13 is in an overlapping position with the lock hole 112 in the frame base plate 11. Now, the screw is screwed slightly out of the first end member 512 of the frame 51 and into corresponding threading of the lock hole 112 in the main link 13. To release the locking means, the screw is screwed inwards again to release the engagement with the main link 13. The components of the lifting assembly 10 are then again able to move relative to each other and closing of the sash 53 is possible.

[0068] In the first embodiment, the lifting assembly 10 furthermore comprises a guide link 16 connected to the main link 13 in a fourth hinged joint 134. The guide link 16 is provided with a straight track portion 161 and an angled lock track portion 162 to receive a pin 111 on the frame base plate 11. Once the maximum opening angle has been reached as shown in Fig. 13, the angled lock track portion 162 is engaged with the pin 111 by rotation of the guide link 16 as indicated by arrow A. To release the engagement, the guide link 16 is rotated in the opposite direction such that the pin 111 is again located in the straight track portion 161. The components of the lifting assembly 10 are then again able to move relative to each other and closing of the sash 53 is possible.

[0069] In order to prevent the sash 53 from opening further than the maximum opening angle, and hence that the lifting assembly 10 is protected from being brought beyond its second position, means may be provided to limit the movement.

[0070] In the first embodiment, these means are provided by the angled track portion 162.

[0071] In the second and third embodiments, the movement limiting means are provided by an end stop 116 on the frame base plate 11 cooperating with the guide pin 137 on the main link 13. The frame base plate 11 is furthermore provided with an arc-shaped guide edge 15.

[0072] It is also possible to provide means for limiting the movement of the lifting assembly 10 in the first position. This is relevant in case the sash 53 is not in itself prevented from "over-closing" by the frame 51, but also before the lifting assembly 10 is connected to the window module 5, since the movement limiting means then prevent the main link 13 from rotating out of its intended angle range. As shown in Figs 19 and 20, such movement limiting means are here provided as a first end stop 114 at one end of the arc-shaped guide edge 115, the end stop for limiting the movement of the lifting assembly 10 in the second position to prevent "over-opening" being provided as the second end stop 116.

[0073] Finally, means may be provided for controlling the movement of the linkage mechanism 13, 14 and the spring device 15 in a direction perpendicular to the frame base plate 11. This can be provided in any suitable manner, for instance it is conceivable that the guide pin 137 has a retaining function of the main link 13 relative to the guide track as indicated in Fig. 21, where the guide pin 137 has a head portion on the back side of the frame base plate 11 at the arc-shaped guide edge 115, or by a set of further pins or flanges cooperating with the main link and/or the sash link, not shown in detail.

[0074] The invention is not limited to the embodiments shown and described in the above, but various modifications and combinations may be carried out.

List of reference numerals

[0075] 

1

roof light system

2

roof
21-24 trusses
25 counter-batten
26 batten
27 vapour barrier
3 interior building room
31 ceiling
32 wall

4

roof module
41 roof module frame
411 side member
412 bottom member
42 roof module pane
43 flashing

5

window module/ceiling module
51 frame
511 side member
512 first end member
513 side member
514 second end member
515 recess
516 arc-shaped track
52 pane
53 sash
531 side member
532 first end member
533 side member
534 second end member
535 recess
536 apertures
54 hinge connection
541 frame hinge part
542 sash hinge part
55 groove profile
56 compression profile
57 trim profile
58 clip (for trim profile)
59 ceiling trim frame

6

shaft arrangement
61 side section (left-hand)
611 top edge portion
612 bottom edge portion
613 first side edge portion (low)
614 second side edge portion (high)
62 side section (right-hand)
63 first end section (low)
64 second end section (high)
7 support assembly
72 bracket
73 bracket
81 first corner post
83 third corner post

10

lifting assembly
11 frame base plate
111 pin on frame base plate
112 lock hole in frame base plate
113 opening (for trim clip)
114 first position end stop
115 arc-shaped guide edge
116 second position end stop
12 sash base plate
126 spigots
127 opening (for tool 17)
13 main link
131 first hinged joint of main link
132 second hinged joint of main link
133 third hinged joint of main link
134 fourth hinged joint of main link
135 lock hole in main link
136 offset
137 guide pin on main link
14 sash link
141 sash-side hinged joint
142 offset
15 spring device/gas spring
151 frame-side hinged joint of gas spring
152 cylinder
153 piston rod
154 extension plate
155 angled connection flange
16 guide link
161 straight track portion in guide link
162 angled lock track portion in guide link
17 tool
171 hook on tool
172 handle portion of tool

A

arrow

LRM

length of roof module

WRM

width of roof module

LCM

length of ceiling module

WCM

width of ceiling module

Claims

1. A window module (5) comprising a frame (51) defining a length (LCM) and a width (WCM) of the window module in a window module plane, and a sash (53) with a pane (52), said sash (53) being hinged to the frame (51) in a hinge connection (54) defining a hinge axis and allowing the sash (53) to swing out of the window module plane from a closed position to an open position about the hinge axis, and a lifting assembly (10) configured to modulate the swinging movement of the sash (53),
characterised in that
the lifting assembly (10) comprises a frame base plate (11) connected to or connectable to the frame (51), a sash base plate (12) connected to or connectable to the sash (53), a linkage mechanism including a main link (13) connected to the frame base plate (11) in a first hinged joint (131), and a sash link (14) connected to the sash base plate (12) in a sash-side hinged joint (141),
that the sash link (14) is connected to the main link (13) in a second hinged joint (132),
that a spring device (15) having two ends is provided and connected at one end to the main link (13) in a third hinged joint (133) and at the other end connected to or connectable to the frame base plate (11) or the frame (51) of the window module (5) in a frame-side hinged joint (151), and
that the lifting assembly (10) is configured to assume a first position corresponding to the closed position of the sash (53) of the window module (5) and be moved to a second position corresponding to an open position of the sash (53), the spring device (15) being biased in at least one of the first and second positions.

2. A window module (5) according to claim 1, wherein the spring device comprises a pressurised cylinder device comprising a gas spring (15) with a cylinder (152) and a piston rod (153), preferably having a dampening effect on the movement between the first and second positions, and/or vice versa.

3. A window module (5) according to claim 2, wherein the frame-side hinged joint (151) is connected to the cylinder (152) and the third hinged joint (133) of the main link (13) to the piston rod (153) of the gas spring (15), the frame-side hinged joint (151) being preferably connected to the frame (51) of the window module (5).

4. A window module (5) according to claim 2, wherein the frame-side hinged joint (151) is connected to the piston rod (153) and the third hinged joint (133) of the main link (13) to the cylinder (152) of the gas spring (15), the third hinged joint (133) of the main link (13) being preferably connected to the cylinder (152) of the gas spring (15) via an extension plate (154), more preferably via an angled connection flange (155).

5. A window module (5) according to claim 4, wherein the frame-side hinged joint (151) is connected to the frame base plate (11).

6. A window module (5) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lifting assembly (10) is configured to assume a second position in which the sash (53) of the window module (5) is swung out of the window module plane to a maximum opening angle of substantially 90°.

7. A window module (5) according to claim 6, wherein locking means are provided for locking the sash (53) of the window module (5) in the maximum opening angle.

8. A window module (5) according to claim 7, wherein the locking means comprise a lock hole (135) in the main link (13), a lock hole (112) in the frame base plate (11) and a screw in the frame (51), and wherein the screw is screwed out of the frame (51) and into the lock hole (135) in the main link (13) when the lock hole (135) in the main link (13) and the lock hole (112) in the frame base plate (11) are in an overlapping position in the maximum opening angle of the sash (53) of the window module (5).

9. A window module (5) according to claim 7, wherein the lifting assembly (10) furthermore comprises a guide link (16) connected to the main link (13) in a fourth hinged joint (134), the guide link (16) being provided with a straight track portion (161) and an angled lock track portion (162) to receive a pin (111) on the frame base plate (11), said angled lock track portion (162) being engageable with the pin (111) in the maximum opening angle of the sash (53) of the window module (5) by rotation of the guide link (16).

10. A window module (5) according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein means are provided for limiting the movement of the lifting assembly (10) and in turn the sash (53) in the maximum opening angle.

11. A window module (5) according to claims 9 and 10, wherein the movement limiting means are provided by the angled track portion (162).

12. A window module (5) according to claims 8 and 10, wherein the movement limiting means are provided by an end stop (116) on the frame base plate (11) cooperating with a guide pin (137) on the main link (13), and optionally, said frame base plate (11) is provided with an arc-shaped guide edge (115), the guide pin (137) being preferably received in an arc-shaped track (516) in a member (512) of the frame (51).

13. A window module (5) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein means are provided for limiting the movement of the lifting assembly (10) in a supply condition.

14. A window module (5) according to claims 12 and 13, wherein the movement limiting means are provided with a first end stop (114) at one end of the arc-shaped guide edge (115), the end stop for limiting the movement of the lifting assembly (10) in the second position being provided as a second end stop (116).

15. A window module (5) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein means are provided for controlling the movement of the linkage mechanism (13, 14) and the spring device (15) in a direction perpendicular to the frame base plate (11).

16. A window module (5) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the spring device (15) is arranged as a pressure spring and the bias of the spring device (15) is more relaxed in the first position of the lifting assembly (10) corresponding to the closed position of the sash (53) of the window module (5) and tensioned in the second position corresponding to an open position of the sash (53).

17. A window module (5) according to claim 16, wherein the lifting assembly (10) is connected to only the frame (51) of the window module (5) in a supply condition of the window module (5), and assuming a position, with the spring device (15) in its relaxed condition, the sash (53) being preferably configured to be connected to the frame (51) at the hinge connection (54) in the supply condition and is opened to an intermediate condition, and the lifting assembly (10) is configured to be brought from its first position to its second position before connection to the sash (53) of the window module (5) in the intermediate condition of the sash (53), preferably by means of a tool (17) insertable into an opening (127) in the sash base plate (12).

18. A window module (5) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sash base plate (12) is provided with a set of spigots (126) to be received in a corresponding set of apertures (536) in a member (533) of the sash (53) of the window module (5), said set of apertures (536) being preferably provided in a recess (535).

19. A window module (5) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sash link (14) and/or the main link (13) is/are provided with an offset (142; 136).

20. A roof light system (1) configured to provide a light conduit between an inclined roof (2) of a building and an interior building room (3) with a ceiling (31) in a mounted condition, comprising:

a roof module (4) comprising a roof module frame (41) and a roof module pane (42), said roof module frame (41) defining a length (LRM) and a width (WRM) of the roof module in a roof module plane and being configured to be mounted in a surface of the roof (2) in the mounted condition, with the roof module plane substantially parallel to the roof surface,

a ceiling module (5) comprising at least a ceiling module frame (51) and a ceiling module pane (52), said ceiling module frame (51) defining a length (LCM) and a width (WCM) of the ceiling module in a ceiling module plane and being configured to be mounted in the ceiling (31) in the mounted condition, with the ceiling module plane substantially parallel to the ceiling, and

a shaft arrangement (6) extending between the roof module (4) and the ceiling module (5) in the mounted condition, said shaft comprising two side sections (61, 62), a first end section (63) and a second end section (64), in which each side section (61, 62) has a top edge portion (611) with a length substantially corresponding to a length of the roof module, a bottom edge portion (612) with a length substantially corresponding to a length of the ceiling module, a first side edge portion (613) and a second side edge portion (614), and in which each of the first and second end sections (63, 64) has a top edge, a bottom edge and two side edges,

characterised in that

the ceiling module comprises a window module (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 19 and the sash (53) is configured to be opened into the interior building room.

21. A roof light system according to claim 20, wherein the frame (51) of the ceiling module (5) comprises two side members (511, 513) and first and second end members (512, 514), and the sash (53) of the ceiling module (5) comprises two side members (531, 533) and first and second end members (532, 534), wherein the hinge connection (54) is connected to a set of side members (511, 531) of the frame (51) and the sash (53) and wherein one lifting assembly (10) is connected to each first and second end member (512, 514) of the frame (51) of the ceiling module (5), and wherein the lifting assembly (10) is connected or connectable to the sash (53) of the ceiling module (5).

Drawing