STRUCTURE FOR SURFACE COVERING

Abstract

 Structure (1) for covering surfaces, comprising: a fixing bracket (4) having a connecting portion (19), stably anchorable to a load-bearing structure, and a coupling portion (18) integral with the connecting portion (19) and defining a concave seat; a first panel (2) and a second panel (3), each having a main portion (8) and, on opposite sides of said main portion (8), a first coupling portion (6) at least partially shaped, projecting from said main portion (8), and a second coupling portion (7) at least partially shaped, projecting from said main portion (8), wherein said first panel (2) further has an end relief (16) arranged adjacent to said first coupling portion (6); preferably the second coupling portion (7) of the second panel (3) being at least partially counter-shaped to the first coupling portion (6) of the first panel (2); wherein the coupling portion (18) of the fixing bracket (4) is configured to interpose, in a configuration of use, between the first panel (2) and the second panel (3) and to house said end relief (16) within said concave seat; the structure further comprising an anchoring bracket (5) fixable to the load-bearing structure comprising a cavity (20) for housing the connecting portion (19) of the fixing bracket (4).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a structure for covering surfaces.

[0002] In particular, the structure finds useful but not exclusive application in the field of construction for covering roofs and walls.

[0003] Especially in the field of construction, it is extremely important to be able to ensure roofing structures for covering surfaces which meet criteria such as mechanical stability, waterproofing, ease of installation and aesthetics.

[0004] Among the various typical structures, the use of slab-like elements or panels is known, especially in metallic material, arranged adjacent to each other and anchored to a load-bearing structure.

[0005] Typically, such panels have two complementary coupling portions, arranged on opposite sides and extending parallel for the entire panel extension.

[0006] Each coupling portion is configured to be stably couplable with the coupling portion of an adjacent panel.

[0007] In particular, the combination between two coupling portions essentially provides that one of the two coupling portions is such as to be housed at least partially within the other.

[0008] For anchoring the panels to the load-bearing structure, a fixing bracket is typically used which is configured to retain an end edge of the inner coupling portion.

[0009] However, this solution has some drawbacks and can be improved in several respects.

[0010] In fact, if the covering structure were to be subjected to significant external forces, such as stresses generated by strong wind currents, the anchoring could be insufficiently robust to retain the panelling.

[0011] In particular, such an anchoring system could be insufficiently robust if the wind currents, infiltrating below the metal cover, had components in a direction aimed at lifting the panels.

[0012] In addition, the coupling of the coupling portions is not sufficiently airtight to prevent the passage of water, especially in the event of heavy rainfall or if the rainwater disposal system is insufficient.

[0013] In fact, these types of panels have recesses on the lower coupling portion, extending throughout the length of the panel, configured to collect and channel the filtered rainwater between the two coupling portions.

[0014] A further major drawback is the complexity in the assembly steps of the known coverage systems. This complexity is essentially derived from the need to manually handle large panels which must be correctly coupled to each other and to the support bracket, under penalty of the formation of water passage slots and the progressive detachment of the coupling portions.

[0015] In this context, the technical task underpinning the present invention is to provide a covering for surfaces which obviates at least some of the drawbacks in the prior art as described above.

[0016] In particular, an object of the present invention is to provide a structure for covering surfaces able to guarantee a better anchorage to the load-bearing structure.

[0017] A further object of the present invention is to provide a structure for covering surfaces capable of ensuring a better mechanical response to external stresses, in particular stresses which lead to lifting the cover panels.

[0018] A further object of the present invention is to provide a structure for covering surfaces capable of ensuring a better airtightness of the panelling in order to prevent water infiltrations into the layers below the panelling itself.

[0019] Finally, a further object of the present invention is to provide a system capable of simplifying the coupling operations of the respective cover panels.

[0020] The mentioned technical task and the specified objects are substantially achieved by a system for covering surfaces comprising a first and a second panel, a fixing bracket and an anchoring bracket.

[0021] The first and second panels each have a main portion, first and second coupling portions arranged on opposite sides of the main portion and configured to stably engage the panels. A fixing bracket and anchoring bracket are configured to create a stable anchor between panels and load-bearing structure and to improve the panelling stability.

[0022] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following indicative, and hence non-limiting, description of a preferred, but not exclusive, embodiment of a system for covering surfaces.

[0023] Such description will be set out hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings given only for illustrative and, therefore, non-limiting purpose, in which:

• figure 1 shows a lateral view of the structure for covering surfaces in accordance with the present invention;
• figure 2 shows a perspective view of an anchoring bracket in accordance with the present invention;
• figure 2a shows a top view of the bracket of figure 2;
• figure 2b shows a section view along the line A-A of the bracket of figure 2a;
• figure 2c shows a section view along the line B-B of the bracket of figure 2a;
• figures 3a and 3b show two lateral side views of two respective embodiments of panels in accordance with the present invention;
• figure 4 shows a lateral and section view of a fixing bracket in accordance with the present invention;
• figure 5 shows a top view of the bracket of figure 4;
• figures 6a-6d show views of an assembly sequence of the structure for covering surfaces in accordance with the present invention;
• figures 7a and 7b show lateral views of an assembly sequence of a structure in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention; and
• figures 8a and 8b show lateral views of an assembly sequence of a structure in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] A structure for covering surfaces has been indicated overall with the reference numeral 1. By way of non-limiting example, the term "surfaces" can be understood as walls and roofs of buildings or structures typically arranged outside and therefore subject to atmospheric agents.

[0025] The structure 1 is shown in the figures in a section plane perpendicular to the longitudinal extension thereof.

[0026] In particular, the structure 1 extends longitudinally parallel to a longitudinal plane "S".

[0027] Basically, said structure 1 comprises a first 2 and a second 3 panel, a fixing bracket 4 and an anchoring bracket 5.

[0028] The first and second panels 2 and 3 are preferably but not necessarily the same. In other words, the first and second panels 2 and 3 preferably have the same profile and longitudinal extension.

[0029] In particular, each panel 2 and 3 has a first coupling portion 6, a second coupling portion 7 and a main portion 8 interposed with such first and second coupling portions 6 and 7 (figures 3a and 3b).

[0030] As can be seen in the attached figures, the main portion 8 is defined by a planar profile lying on the longitudinal plane S. The main portion 8 is the panel portion 2 or 3 preferably having the largest planar extension.

[0031] On opposite sides, the main portion 8 is associated with the first and second coupling portions 6 and 7, which extend parallel to each other along a direction perpendicular to the section plane.

[0032] The first and second coupling portions 6 and 7 are substantially configured to stably engage and couple adjacent panels according to a unique and predetermined positioning.

[0033] In particular, the solution provides that the second coupling portion 7 of the second panel 3 is counter-shaped to the first coupling portion 6 of the first panel 2 so that, in a configuration of use, the second coupling portion 7 of the second panel 3 is applied to the first coupling portion 6 of the first panel 2 according to a unique and predetermined positioning, in particular by a shape-coupling, such that the second panel 3 covers the first panel 2. In addition, the first and second portions 6 and 7 define the panel portions adapted to be constrained to a load-bearing structure by means of the fixing bracket 4 and the anchoring bracket 5.

[0034] Structurally, the first coupling portion 6 is projecting from the main portion 8, i.e., it extends away from the longitudinal plane "S" on which the main portion 8 lies.

[0035] Furthermore, the first coupling portion 6 has a complex and at least partially shaped profile.

[0036] In particular, the first coupling portion 6 has a head part 9 and a base part 10, which connects the head part 9 to the main portion 8.

[0037] The base part 10 has two walls 10a and 10b each having a substantially upward profile approaching the head part 9.

[0038] The first wall 10a, according to one embodiment, provides for the presence of two interspersed ramps and two horizontal sections.

[0039] The second wall 10b provides for a single ramp.

[0040] The head part 9, associated with two ends of the base part 10, has a profile at least partially curved and extends transversely with respect to the longitudinal plane "S".

[0041] The head part 9 is configured so as to be completely closed at the top and open at the bottom with a concavity facing downwards.

[0042] In particular, the head part 9 is shaped so as to define two facing and opposite walls, extending away from the longitudinal plane "S".

[0043] Two first undercuts 11 are obtained on such walls, having concavities facing towards the inside of the head part 9 and at least partially upwards. In particular, the first undercuts 11 are arranged one above the other on a respective side, i.e., on the first wall 10a.

[0044] The second coupling portion 7 extends away from the main portion 8, transversely with respect to the longitudinal plane "S" and has a profile at least partially counter-shaped to the profile of the first coupling portion 6.

[0045] In particular, the second coupling portion 7 is configured so as to be couplable, and in particular is configured to at least partially receive the first coupling portion 6 of an adjacent panel according to a predetermined and unique positioning.

[0046] In other words, the second coupling portion 7 has a profile substantially alike the profile of the first coupling portion 6 such that in the configuration of use the first coupling portion 6 of the first panel 2 is stably housed according to a shape interlock within the second coupling portion 7 of the second panel 3.

[0047] Specifically, the second coupling portion 7 has a head part 12 and a base part 13 at least partially alike the head part 9 and the base part 10 of the first coupling portion 6.

[0048] The base portion 13 of the second coupling portion 7 has a substantially upward profile approaching the head portion 12.

[0049] Specifically, the base portion 13 of the second coupling portion 7 will have two interspersed ramps with two horizontal sections.

[0050] One end of the base part 13 is associated with the head part 12, where the head part 12 has a substantially arcuate profile and extends transversely with respect to the longitudinal plane "S".

[0051] In particular, the head part 12 of the second coupling portion 7 is shaped so as to define two facing and opposite walls, extending away from the longitudinal plane. In addition, the head portion 12 is configured so as to be collectively closed at the top and open at the bottom with a downward-facing concavity.

[0052] According to a first embodiment, a concave top portion 15 is defined, arranged at the head portion 12.

[0053] Alternatively, in accordance with a second embodiment shown in particular in figure 3b, the top portion 15 is convex to define a rainwater outflow surface.

[0054] The walls of the head part 12 of the second coupling portion 7 have three second undercuts 14 complementary in shape and number such that they can be coupled to at least one first undercut 11 of the first coupling portion 6.

[0055] That is, in the configuration of use, a second more distal undercut 14 is coupled to and stably connected to a first upper undercut 11, in particular by shape-coupling.

[0056] Advantageously, the presence of first and second undercuts 11 and 14 allows to permanently constrain the first and second panel 2 and 3, avoiding relative movements if external forces act on the panels. Furthermore, the concavity facing at least partially upwards allows an engagement so as to prevent or cancel in particular the relative movements in a direction transverse to the longitudinal plane "S". Advantageously, thanks to the second undercut 14 coupled to the first undercut 11, water infiltrations are considerably limited, allowing the use of the present invention even in the presence of roofs with slopes close to 0%. Moreover, the second undercut 14 adheres to the first undercut 11, giving the impression to an observer that there is no discontinuity between the first and second panels 2 and 3.

[0057] Advantageously, structured in this manner, the head part 12 of the second coupling portion 7 of the second panel 3 allows a temporary housing for the head part 9 of the first coupling portion 6 of the first panel 2.

[0058] Such a temporary housing hinders or prevents relative movements between the first and second coupling portions 6 and 7 of the respective first and second panels 2 and 3 along a transverse direction parallel to the longitudinal plane "S".

[0059] The temporary housing, defined by the head part 12 of the second coupling portion 7, then allows the first coupling portion 6 of the first panel 2 to be correctly aligned with the second coupling portion 7 of the second panel 3.

[0060] In this way, the application of a force pushing the second coupling portion 7 towards the first coupling portion 6 causes the head part 12 of the second coupling portion 7 to be stressed to expand elastically to allow the insertion of the first coupling portion 6 of the first panel 2.

[0061] The panels 2 and 3 are anchored to the load-bearing structure by means of anchoring bracket 5 and fixing bracket 4.

[0062] In this context, as will be better described in the following discussion, the combined action of the two brackets 4, 5 gives greater stability to the entire structure 1.

[0063] In other words, the presence of the anchoring bracket 5 which has a dual anchorage conferred both independently and with the fixing bracket 4, confers greater stability to the coupling with the two panels 2 and 3 with the consequent advantages in terms of convenience of use and stabilization of the panels. This combined action of the brackets 4, 5 is able to withstand very high stresses caused for example by violent atmospheric agents.

[0064] In particular, the first panel 2 has an end relief 16 arranged adjacent to the first coupling portion 6.

[0065] Specifically, such end relief 16 is associated with the end portion 17 which is interposed between the first coupling portion 6 and such end relief 16. The end portion 17 has a concave transverse section profile to define a rainwater housing channel adapted to contain any water leakage between the coupling portions 6, 7. Advantageously, the housing channel, particularly pronounced, is able to preserve the interior of the structure from the aforementioned fluid leakage, allowing the use of the present invention even in the case of roofs with slopes close to 0%.

[0066] The end relief 16 is configured to fit into a portion of the fixing bracket 4. The fixing bracket 4 is made of metallic material, preferably stainless steel, in particular by bending a single metal plate. Preferably, the fixing bracket 4 is externally coated with a material which allows to minimize friction by sliding between the contact points of the bracket 4. Such a coating may be by way of example made of plastic, polyamide, or other suitable material adapted to ensure maximum sliding.

[0067] The fixing bracket 4, has a coupling portion 18 defining a concave seat adapted to at least partially receive the end relief 16.

[0068] In the configuration of use, said coupling portion 18 is placed between the first panel 2 and the second panel 3.

[0069] In particular, the coupling portion 18 comprises a first arcuate end section 18a and a second arcuate end section 18b. The arcuate sections 18a, 18b are adjacent to each other to define the aforementioned concave seat. In this context, it should be noted that the first arcuate section 18a, shaped like a hook, defines a mechanical interlock with the end relief 16.

[0070] The fixing bracket 4 also has a connecting portion 19, integral with the coupling portion 18, and seamless with the coupling portion 18. It should be noted that the two portions 18, 19 are made of a single sheet obtained by bending.

[0071] The connecting portion 19 is stably connectable to the anchoring bracket 5.

[0072] In other words, the connecting portion 19 of the fixing bracket 4, in the configuration of use, is housed in a cavity 20 formed in the connecting bracket.

[0073] Preferably, the connecting portion 19 has a substantially L-shaped configuration defining a first flat section 19a extending transversely to a second section 19b near the coupling portion 18.

[0074] The structure 1 comprises first and second connection means (not shown in the attached figures).

[0075] The first connection means are configured for stably fixing the anchoring bracket 5 to the load-bearing structure while the second connection means are configured for stably fixing the fixing bracket 4 within the cavity 20 of the anchoring bracket 5.

[0076] Furthermore, part of the first connection means may coincide with at least part of the second connection means.

[0077] The first and second connection means may for example be threaded bodies.

[0078] The first and second connection means are housed within respective through holes 21a and holes 21b respectively obtained in the fixing bracket 4 and in the anchoring bracket 5.

[0079] In particular, the connecting portion 19 of the fixing bracket 4 has through holes 21 a (better illustrated in figures 4 and 4a) configured to receive the second connection means and arranged in such a position that, in the configuration of use, they coincide with respective holes 21b obtained inside the anchoring bracket 5 and at the cavity 20 (better illustrated in figures 2, 2a, 2b).

[0080] Such holes 21b obtained in the anchoring bracket 5 may be blind or through.

[0081] Advantageously, an abutment surface 23 placed inside the cavity 20 (which is therefore blind) defines a stop for the connecting portion 19 adapted to correctly position the bracket 4 and thus define an automatic and easy centring during the laying of the aforementioned holes 21a and 21b.

[0082] More particularly, with reference to figures 2, 2a, and 2b, the anchoring bracket 5 is made of a monolithic body, preferably but not limited to polyamide or acetyl resin.

[0083] The cavity 20 is formed in the anchoring bracket 5 in a decentralized lateral position, and defines an access opening 22 of the fixing bracket 4. This access opening 22 allows the connecting portion 19 of the fixing bracket 4 to be inserted laterally into the anchoring bracket 5. In this coupling condition, it should be noted that the connecting portion 19 is completely incorporated into the body of the anchoring bracket 5 and only the coupling portion 18 is projecting above the anchoring bracket 5 itself. The aforementioned abutment surface 23 extends on the opposite side of the access opening 22, on which the connecting portion 19 is abutted to stop and arrange correctly inside the bracket 5.

[0084] Advantageously, the presence of the abutment surface 23 allows a quick and immediate centring of the fixing bracket 4, thus simplifying the laying operations of the structure.

[0085] The cavity 20, which is obtained in the shape and size of a slot, has a substantially L-shaped configuration defining a first flat seat 20a for housing the flat section 19a of the connecting portion 19, and a second seat 20b transverse to the first 20a and for housing the second section 19b of the connecting portion 19.

[0086] The angled shape (substantially an L-shape) of the connecting portion 19 and consequently of the cavity 20, allows a stable coupling of the fixing bracket 4 which ensures a seal to stresses from the bottom up, i.e., aimed at lifting the cover panels.

[0087] Preferably, such an L-shaped configuration of the connecting portion 19 and the cavity 20 defines an acute angle.

[0088] According to a further embodiment (not shown) of the present invention, the fixing bracket 4 can be pre-coupled and integral with the anchoring bracket 5, constituting a single pre-assembled element. In this alternative solution, the access opening 22 is not provided, as the fixing bracket 4, preferably of metallic material, is coupled in the moulding step of the anchoring bracket 5 which is made of plastic material.

[0089] During assembly, this solution eliminates the operation of inserting the fixing bracket 4 inside the anchoring bracket 5, speeding up the laying of the system.

[0090] A second and third embodiment of the present invention are also provided, shown in figures 7a, 7b and 8a, 8b, respectively.

[0091] In these embodiments, the anchoring bracket 5 is obtained in two portions, a fixed part "A" and a movable part "B" to which the fixing bracket 4 is incorporated.

[0092] In particular, according to the second embodiment, the movable part "B" of the anchoring bracket 5 also incorporates the fixing bracket 4. In this case, the movable part "B" is coupled to the fixed part "A" by the sliding of respective contact surfaces which allow the fixing bracket 4 to be brought in abutment against the fixed part "A" (figure 7b). The movable part "B", once positioned on the fixed part "A", is anchored thereto by means of suitable engagement systems.

[0093] It should be noted that in this case the cavity 20 for housing the connecting portion 19 is defined following the coupling of the aforementioned fixed and movable parts.

[0094] The movable part "B" can also be obtained only in the form of the fixing bracket 4 which moves by translation on the fixed part "A" and which is subsequently anchored to the fixed part.

[0095] In the third embodiment of figures 8a and 8b, the movable part "B" is anchored to the fixed part "A" by means of a hinge "C" which allows a relative rotation of the movable part "B" on the fixed part until the positioning of the fixing bracket against the fixed part "A". In this case, the movable part "B" is not moved but rotated around an axis of the hinge "C" to correctly position the fixing bracket 4 against the fixed part "A". The hinge "C" is preferably obtained by means of a pin "C1" of the movable part "B" housed by mechanical interlocking within a respective seat "C2". Also in this case, the cavity 20 for housing the connecting portion 19 is defined following the coupling of the aforementioned fixed and movable parts.

[0096] Also in this case, the movable part "A" can be made in the form of the fixing bracket 4 alone, which moves by rotation on the fixed part "A". In this case, the bracket 4 will be provided with an interlocking hinge to the fixed part "A" to allow the rotation and coupling with the fixed part itself.

[0097] Such embodiments represent alternative embodiments of the anchoring bracket 5 and consequently respective alternatives in the assembly steps. All the embodiments are joined by the same inventive concept represented by the presence of the fixing bracket 4, anchored or anchorable inside the anchoring bracket 5.

[0098] The anchoring bracket 5 further has a recess 24 configured to house the end portion 17 of the first panel 2 interposed between the first coupling portion 6 and the end relief 16.

[0099] In the configuration of use, the coupling portion 18 of the fixing bracket 4 and the recess 24 of the anchoring bracket 5 are such as to define a retention seat adapted to retain the end relief 16 and the end portion 17 according to a unique and predetermined positioning.

[0100] The recess 24 is substantially obtained in the central position of the anchoring bracket 5 and at a support element 25 better described below. The recess 24 also has suitable dimensions to house the extension of the end portion 17 which determines the water retention channel.

[0101] In the configuration of use, moreover, the coupling portion 18 of the fixing bracket 4 is placed between the first 2 and the second panel 3.

[0102] The support element 25, preferably central, extends away from a lower surface of the anchoring bracket 5.

[0103] In other words, said support element 25 extends transversely away from the longitudinal plane "S".

[0104] Furthermore, such a support element 25 is adapted to define, in the configuration of use, a shape-coupling with at least one between the first and second coupling portions 6 and 7.

[0105] In particular, the support element 25 has a tapered shape away from the lower surface of the anchoring bracket 5 and has projections 25a, 25b defining respective section enlargements to engage with at least one undercut 11 or 14 of the first or second coupling portion 6 or 7. Advantageously, thanks to the constraint between the support element 25 and the panels 2 and 3, the structure 1 appears to have a higher mechanical resistance to external stresses.

[0106] In fact, even if the structure 1 is subject to forces with components which tend to move the panels 2 and 3 away from the load-bearing structure, the anchoring bracket 5, through the support element 25, is able to firmly retain the panels 2 and 3.

[0107] The support element 25 has in particular a top projection 25a and two lower projections 25b arranged on opposite sides. In this situation, as best shown in figure 6c, the projection 25a, 25b and the second arcuate section 18b are configured to define four engagement projections with respective undercuts 11, 14 of the first and/or second anchoring portions 6, 7 coupled together.

[0108] These four points of constraint between the support element 25 and the arcuate section 18b, with the anchoring portions 6, 7 form a particularly stable coupling capable of sustaining the mechanical stresses.

[0109] More specifically, always referring to the assembly sequence of figure 6a-6d, the first undercuts 11 of the first anchoring portion 6 are configured to respectively fit with the top projection 25a and with a lower projection 25b. The three second undercuts 14 of the second anchoring portion 7 are instead configured to engage respectively with the top projection 25a (above the first undercut 11), with the second arcuate section 18b and with a lower projection 25b opposite that of coupling of the first undercut 11. Again, the anchoring bracket 5 has, preferably at or near the opposite sides thereof, a pair of recesses 26 configured to receive protrusions 27 present on the panels 2 and 3.

[0110] In fact, each panel 2 and 3 has a first and a second lower protrusion 27, preferably each defining a shaped groove, arranged near the first and second coupling portions 6 and 7, respectively.

[0111] In particular, such first and second lower protrusions 27 are oriented in non-parallel directions to each other.

[0112] Such lower protrusions 27 are shaped so as to be housed in a shape-coupling in the pair of recesses 26 obtained in the anchoring bracket 5. Advantageously, the shape-coupling between the lower protrusions 27 and the pair of recesses 26 improves the mechanical stability of the structure 1 and the stability of the anchoring.

[0113] Furthermore, the pair of recesses 26, and consequently the respective protrusions 27, have a width at least one third greater than the state of the art, in order to simplify assembly operations.

[0114] In particular, the ease of assembly is improved by obtaining protrusions 27 which act as natural springs so that the insertion is facilitated without straining or deforming the metal sheets. Even more particularly, the assembly is facilitated by the two sheet portions of concave curvature interposed between the protrusions 27 and the undercuts 11 and 14. Such portions perform the spring function and, during assembly, allow the portions 6, 7 to be pushed into support against the projections 25b, sufficiently so that the protrusions 27 can "slide" with a downwards thrust into the recesses 26, without undue effort. Once interlocked, the natural positioning of the sheet portions 6, 7 inside the anchoring bracket 5 ensures that the panels are retained extremely effectively by the characteristic elements of the system (18, 18a, 18b, 25, 25a, 25b, 27). Furthermore, the greater width facilitates the sliding of the sheet on the plastic bracket due to natural thermal expansion, also guaranteeing less system noise as the slab has less constriction, reducing friction which causes noise, especially at high temperatures.

[0115] Advantageously, the present invention attains the set aims, overcoming the lamented drawbacks of the prior art and providing a structure for covering surfaces capable of ensuring better anchorage to the load-bearing structure.

[0116] In fact, the presence of the anchoring bracket 4 allows to maintain the panelling in a correct arrangement, in particular the first and second panels, in the event of stresses due to, for example, atmospheric agents. In fact, the combined work of the anchoring bracket and fixing bracket allows a robust anchoring of the panel to the load-bearing structure.

[0117] In particular, the joint action of the brackets provides a greater number of anchorage points and thus a better distribution of stresses.

[0118] The shape-anchorage between the anchoring bracket and coupling portions causes the stresses not to be concentrated on the fixing bracket and consequently on the connection means which secure it to the load-bearing structure.

[0119] Another object attained is that of providing a structure for covering surfaces capable of ensuring a better mechanical response to external stresses, avoiding premature breakage of the panel and undesired movements of the same.

[0120] In fact, the presence of the anchoring bracket allows to maintain the panelling in a correct arrangement, in particular the first and second panels, in the event of stresses due to, for example, atmospheric agents. In particular, the shape anchoring between the coupling portions and the anchoring bracket allows for effective stabilization of the panels.

[0121] In addition, thanks to the support element and recesses present in the anchoring bracket, the structure is able to provide a more robust anchorage.

[0122] A further object achieved is that of providing a structure for covering surfaces which can guarantee a better seal of the panelling.

[0123] In fact, thanks to the mutually shaped conformation of the coupling portions and above all thanks to the presence of the undercuts, the coupling portions are combined in a cohesive manner ensuring an airtight seal which prevents water from filtering.

[0124] Furthermore, the infiltration collection channel defined by the end portion 17 represents the draining joint of the system.

[0125] This channel is particularly wide in terms of water flow with a vertical extension which guarantees greater safety than any water flow therefrom. In addition, the collection channel is centrally positioned and raised with respect to the reference laying planes of the sheets, i.e., where the rainwater flows. This difference in height increases safety in the event of possible water infiltration.

[0126] In addition, the assembly operations are greatly simplified by simply inserting the fixing bracket 4 into the cavity 20 of the anchoring bracket 5 in order to engage the end relief 16. Moreover, in case of need such a coupling may define a fixed constraint point by stable coupling (e.g., with suitable fixing systems, such as for example metal rivets or threaded elements) of the fixing bracket 4 to the end relief 16.

Claims

1. A structure (1) for covering surfaces, comprising:

- a fixing bracket (4) having a connecting portion (19), stably anchorable to a load-bearing structure, and a coupling portion (18) integral with the connecting portion (19) and defining a concave seat;

- a first panel (2) and a second panel (3), each having a main portion (8) and, on opposite sides of said main portion (8), a first coupling portion (6) at least partially shaped, protruding from said main portion (8), and a second coupling portion (7) at least partially shaped, protruding from said main portion (8), wherein said first panel (2) further has an end relief (16) arranged adjacent to said first coupling portion (6); preferably the second coupling portion (7) of the second panel (3) being at least partially counter-shaped to the first coupling portion (6) of the first panel (2); in a configuration of use the second coupling portion (7) of the second panel (3) being applied to the first coupling portion (6) of the first panel (2) according to a unique and predetermined positioning, in particular by a shape-coupling, such that the second panel (3) covers the first panel (2) at said coupling portions (6, 7) coupled to each other;

wherein the coupling portion (18) of the fixing bracket (4) is configured to interpose, in said configuration of use, between the first panel (2) and the second panel (3) and to house said end relief (16) inside said concave seat;
said structure further comprising an anchoring bracket (5) fixable to the load-bearing structure;
characterized in that said anchoring bracket (5) comprises a cavity (20) housing the connecting portion (19) of the fixing bracket (4).

2. The structure (1) according to claim 1, comprising first connection means for stably fixing the anchoring bracket (5) to the load-bearing structure and second connection means for stably fixing the fixing bracket (4) inside the cavity (20) of the anchoring bracket (5), wherein said anchoring bracket (5) has a recess (24) configured to house an end portion (17) of the first panel (2) interposed between the first coupling portion (6) and said end relief (16).

3. The structure (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said connecting portion (19) of the fixing bracket (4) has a substantially "L-shaped" configuration defining a first flat section (19a) extending transversely to a second section (19b) near the coupling portion (18).

4. The structure (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein said first flat section (19a) of the connecting portion (19) has at least one through hole (21a) intended for housing said second connection means and wherein said cavity (20) has at least one corresponding hole (21b) for housing said second connection means.

5. The structure (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said cavity (20) is obtained in the anchoring bracket (5) in a decentralized lateral position, said cavity (20) defining an access opening (22) of the fixing bracket (4) and an abutment surface (23) arranged opposite the access opening (22); said connecting portion (19) in said cavity (20) being abutted to the abutment surface (23).

6. The structure (1) according to claim 5 when dependant on 4, wherein said fixing bracket (4) inside the cavity (20) has the through hole (21a) coinciding with the hole (21b) of the cavity obtained in the anchoring bracket (5).

7. The structure (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that said cavity (20) has a substantially "L-shaped" configuration defining a first flat seat (20a) for housing the flat section (19a) of the connecting portion (19), and a second seat (20b) transverse to the first and housing the second section (19b) of the connecting portion (19).

8. The structure (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coupling portion (18) comprises a first arcuate end section (18a) and a second arcuate section (18b) close to the connecting portion (19); said arcuate sections (18a, 18b) being adjacent to each other to define the concave seat; said first arcuate section (18a) defining a mechanical interlock with the end relief (16).

9. The structure (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims 2 to 8, wherein said anchoring bracket (5) has a support element (25), preferably central, extending away from a lower surface of the anchoring bracket (5) and defining said recess (24) for housing the end portion (17); said support element (25) further defining a shape-coupling with at least one of said first and second anchoring portions (6, 7) coupled together.

10. The structure (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said end portion (17) has a concave transverse section profile to define a rainwater housing channel.

11. The structure (1) according to claim 9, wherein said support element (25) has a top projection (25a) and two lower projections (25b) arranged on opposite sides, said projections (25a, 25b) and second arcuate section (18b), being configured to engage with respective undercuts (11, 14) of said first and/or second anchoring portions (6, 7) coupled to each other.

12. The structure (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the first coupling portion (6) has two first undercuts (11) arranged between the respective main portion (8) and the end portion (17), said first undercuts (11) being configured to fit respectively with the top projection (25a) and with a lower projection (25b); and wherein the second coupling portion (7) has three second undercuts (14), said second undercuts (14) being configured to fit respectively with the top projection (25), with the second arcuate section (18b) and with a lower projection (25b).

13. The structure (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the second coupling portion (7) of the second panel (3) is obtained by bending an end portion of the second panel (3) and wherein said second coupling portion (7) surmounts the first coupling portion (6) to cover said end portion (17) and said coupling portion (18) of the fixing bracket (4).

14. The structure (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein said second coupling portion (7) has a concave top portion (15), arranged above the top projection (25) and defining a rainwater outflow channel.

15. The structure (1) according to claim 13, wherein said second coupling portion (7) has a convex top portion (15), arranged above the top projection (25) and defining a rainwater outflow surface.

16. The structure according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said anchoring bracket (5) comprises a fixed part (A) and a movable part (B) engageable to the fixed part (A) by translation or rotation to define the housing cavity (20) of the connecting portion (19).

Drawing