Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a roof window with a stationary primary frame, at
least one secondary frame comprising a sash, and a lifting device comprising a lifting
arm inserted between the primary frame and the at least one secondary frame.
Background Art
[0002] Windows for installation in an inclined roof surface may be provided in a number
of varieties and include more or less complicated operational structures to allow
opening of the sash and to fulfil other functions, such as ventilation. Such roof
windows include the type hinged at or near the centre, the top-hinged type, and finally
the roof windows that are top-hinged during normal operation but in which the sash
is able to perform a rotating movement substantially at a centre axis, either for
cleaning or for providing an alternative manner of operation. Roof windows of the
top-hinged type have a first hinge axis provided by a top hinge arrangement to provide
a first operational condition, whereas rotation of the sash in a second operational
condition is performed by means of an intermediate frame in which the sash is hinged
to provide a secondary hinge axis. Typically, one hinge of the hinge arrangement will
be located at either side of the roof window to define a substantially horizontal
hinge axis.
[0003] Examples of top-hinged windows with a second operational condition are for instance
disclosed in Applicant's
WO-A-89/10460,
EP 0 733 146 B1,
EP 1 873 323 B1,
EP 2 762 665 A2, and
WO 2019101281 A1. To make it possible to rotate the window sash approximately 180° to a convenient
cleaning position, the sash structure is connected with an intermediate frame with
frame arms, which in the closed position of the window are positioned between the
upper parts of the frame and sash side members, and which during normal use of the
window as a top-hung window follow the sash side members.
[0004] In roof windows in which the operation takes place either entirely or partially about
a hinge axis at the top, it is known to balance at least part of the weight of the
movable components by means of a lifting device. The purpose of this arrangement is
to facilitate opening the window, and the dimensions may be chosen so that a spring
can retain the top-hinged frame in equilibrium in a desired opening position.
[0005] Such a lifting device is for instance disclosed in the Applicant's
WO2019/101281 A1 where a spring assembly acts as a force balancing element to the pane-carrying frame
by operating on a lifting arm attached to the frame.
[0006] However, although the lifting device in the above example is to some extent capable
of providing the desired force balance, there is still room for improvement.
Summary of Invention
[0007] With this background it is an object of the present invention to provide a roof window
with a lifting device having an increased design flexibility allowing the desired
movement pattern and ease of operability.
[0008] This is achieved with a roof window of the kind mentioned in the introduction, which
is further characterised in that the lifting arm has a first end rotatably connected
with a sledge slidably connected with the primary frame in a sledge guide, and a second
end connected with the at least one secondary frame. The lifting device furthermore
comprises a spring assembly configured to be coupled to the sledge. The lifting device
further comprises an adjustment arm having a first end rotatably connected to the
lifting arm and a second end rotatably connected to the sledge guide, wherein the
second end of the lifting arm is arranged to move translationally along the secondary
frame.
[0009] This arrangement of arms and interconnections of arms with a sledge in a sledge guide
provides a comfortable operation of the roof window. During opening and closing of
the roof window, the lifting arm moves translationally in the sledge guide in the
sliding direction of the sledge by having a rotational connection to the sledge at
the first end of the lifting arm. At the same time, the second end of the lifting
arm moves translationally along the secondary frame. This provides a low-friction
opening / closing movement of the roof window. The translational movement is to be
understood as a displacement of the second end of the lifting arm from a point A to
a point B on the secondary frame. The translational movement may be rectilinear and/or
cyclical.
[0010] The second end of the lifting arm and the secondary frame may have a roller connection
via sash wheel. Other forms of connection may also be envisioned. The second end of
the lifting arm and the secondary frame may be connected via a sledge system comprising
a sledge and a sledge guide. A sash wheel on the second end of the lifting arm provides
a minimal friction connection to the secondary frame. A sash wheel connection also
minimizes the wear and tear on both the secondary frame and the lifting arm.
[0011] Furthermore, it provides the opportunity of lifting the secondary frame from the
lifting device which provides a more dynamic use of the roof window for example during
maintenance or reparation of the roof window.
[0012] The sash wheel is preferably mounted on the lifting arm.
[0013] The lifting arm is further connected to the sledge guide through an adjustment arm
which ensures that the lifting arm is securely attached to the sledge guide, while
allowing the first end and second of the lifting arm to slide/roll simultaneously.
The adjustment arm is rotatably attached to the lifting arm at a point between the
first end and second end of the lifting arm. This point may be closer to the first
end of the lifting arm, or closer to the second end of the lifting arm or substantially
half-way between the first end and second end of the lifting arm. Generally, the adjustment
arm can rotate relative to the sledge guide. The adjustment arm may be rotatably connected
to the sledge guide directly and/or indirectly. The adjustment arm may be attached
to the sledge guide indirectly through a component separate from the wheel guide,
but which is in some manner fixed to the sledge guide, such as a part comprised in
the primary frame.
[0014] The lifting arm may further be provided with sliding discs on one side of both sides
of the lifting arm towards the sledge guide. The sliding discs reduce the distance
between the lifting arm and the sledge guide thereby adding stability to the lifting
device when the lifting arm travels in the sledge guide. The sliding discs may comprise
polymer. The sliding discs may be fastened to the lifting arm through holes on the
lifting arm. The sliding discs may be fastened to the lifting arm by an adhesive.
[0015] The sash wheel may be configured to roll on a wheel guide during an opening and/or
closing movement of the roof window, the wheel guide being connected to the secondary
frame. The sash wheel may further cooperate with the wheel guide by magnetic means
or other types of engagement.
[0016] The wheel guide provides a suitable track for the sash wheel to move onto. The wheel
guide may also provide a protective medium between the sash wheel and the secondary
frame. The wheel guide may be made of steel. The wheel guide may be made of the same
material as the sash wheel. The wheel guide may be fastened to the sash with fastening
means such as screws, adhesive or rivets or by formfitting the wheel guide to the
sash such that they are structurally interlocked, or any combination of thereof. The
wheel guide may comprise longitudinal flanges projecting from one or both longitudinal
edges of the guide to ensure a stable movement of the wheel on the guide. The flanges
may thus form a channel where the sash wheel can move into.
[0017] The lifting arm may be connected to the sash wheel via a sash wheel rivet.
The sash wheel rivet provides an easy installation of the sash wheel in the lifting
arm and a secure operation of the sash wheel. The rivet may be made of steel.
[0018] The sash wheel may comprise fibre-reinforced plastic. The sash wheel may comprise
25 - 45 %vol glass fibre.
Glass fibre in the sash wheel provides enhanced strength with an optimal strength
found between 25 - 45 %vol glass fibre. The sash wheel may further comprise other
types of plastic. Alternatively, the sash wheel may comprise metal such as copper
or steel and/or an elastic material such as rubber or silicone.
[0019] The sash wheel and/or wheel guide may have fitting serrations.
Fitting serrations on the wheel and/or wheel guide provide an enhanced grip and prevents
the sash wheel from undesired skidding. The sash wheel and/or wheel guide may alternatively
comprise a track and an accommodated track wheel. Alternatively or additionally, the
sash wheel and/or wheel guide may be provided with rough surfaces for enhanced grip.
The adjustment arm may be rotatably connected to the sledge guide through an adjustment
system.
[0020] The adjustment system provides a mechanism for adjusting the weight of the pane-carrying
sash with the force provided by the spring assembly, according to the roof inclination,
such that the pane-carrying frame can be balanced in various roof inclinations without
modifications to the spring assembly. Alternatively, the adjustment arm may be connected
to the lifting arm through an adjustment system.
The adjustment arm and the lifting arm may be connected at an angle (α
1), wherein the angle (α
1) assumes a second angle (α
2) by adjusting the position of the second end of the adjustment arm by means of the
adjustment system.
[0021] The change of the angle (α
1) to a second angle (α
2) is to be understood as the adjustment arm changing position without movement of
the lifting arm. Thus, an installer may open the window fully after installing the
window and adjust the adjustment system according to the roof inclination. The adjustment
system may provide a balanced sash in roof inclinations preferably in the range of
15° - 65°. Higher roof inclinations may also be accommodated with slight modifications
to the lifting device. The roof inclination value may be pre-selected on the adjustment
system to adapt to a specific roof inclination the roof window is intended to be installed
on or can be changed on spot after the window is installed. Balanced is to be understood
as the window taking a position between fully opened and fully closed without further
opening or closing due to a pull from the spring assembly or from weight of the window,
respectively.
[0022] The adjustment system may comprise an adjustment screw.
The adjustment screw provides a possible mechanism for adjusting the position of the
adjustment arm. The adjustment screw may be fixed to an adjustment base. The adjustment
screw can rotate about its longitudinal axis. The adjustment base may be fitted in
the sledge guide. Alternatively, the adjustment screw may be fixed to the sledge guide
through the adjustment base. The adjustment base may comprise plastic.
[0023] The second end of the adjustment arm is fitted to the adjustment screw such that
the adjustment arm travels along the length direction of the adjustment screw when
the adjustment screw is screwed upon. The adjustment screw may further comprise a
cogwheel at one of its ends, preferably at the end located in proximity with the sledge
guide when in a mounted position. The cogwheel may be adapted to cooperate with the
outer geometry of a mechanical tool.
[0024] The adjustment system may further comprise an adjustment bushing, wherein the second
end of the adjustment arm is connected to the adjustment screw through the adjustment
bushing. The adjustment bushing allows for minimum friction connected between the
adjustment screw and the adjustment arm. As the adjustment arm is adjusted on the
adjustment screw, the angle between the adjustment arm and the lifting arm changes.
Simultaneously, the angle between the adjustment arm and the adjustment screw may
change. The bushing provides a suitable mechanism that allows such a rotation.
[0025] The bushing may comprise a cylindrical or cyclical body engaging with the adjustment
screw via a through hole. The through hole of the adjustment bushing may have an inner
geometry to engage with an outer bushing of the adjustment screw. The adjustment bushing
may further have at least one end part projecting from the body and configured to
engage with a track or a slot on the sledge guide. This track or slot may be called
engagement slot.
[0026] The adjustment system may further comprise a disc configured to be in connection
with and/or adjacent to the second end of the adjustment arm. The disc may further
be adjacent and/or connected to the adjustment bushing such that the disc encompasses
the body of the adjustment bushing and the end part projects from the disc.
[0027] The sledge guide may further comprise the adjustment slot, wherein the adjustment
system is configured to be accommodated in the adjustment slot.
[0028] In order for the adjustment arm to travel along the adjustment screw an adjustment
slot may be provided in the sledge guide such that the adjustment bushing and the
adjustment arm can be adjusted without colliding with the sledge guide. Additionally,
such an adjustment slot may provide a way to visually inspect the adjustment level
of the adjustment system by acting as a way to observe the adjustment screw, the adjustment
bushing or the adjustment arm. Indications such as numerical values, letters or marks
for the adjustment may be provided along the adjustment slot to indicate the position
of the adjustment arm on the adjustment screw to the user according to the roof inclination.
The adjustment slot may be linear. The adjustment slot may alternatively be slightly
curved. The adjustment slot may run in direction that intersect with the direction
of the sliding direction of the sledge. It may run in direction that is perpendicular
to the sliding direction of the sledge.
[0029] The sledge guide may further comprise a first and a second flange extending in a
height direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The sledge guide may
further comprise a rivet holding the two flanges of the sledge guide firmly together.
[0030] The adjustment bushing may be configured to be engaged with the adjustment slot.
[0031] By fitting the adjustment bushing to the adjustment slot, the entire adjustment system
is securely fixed in the sledge guide. The adjustment bushing will be restricted to
travel along the length of the adjustment slot which results in the second end of
the adjustment arm being locked to a position along the adjustment slot. Furthermore,
by engaging the adjustment bushing with the adjustment slot, the adjustment bushing
may be used as an indicator for where on the adjustment screw the adjustment arm is
positioned.
[0032] The sledge guide may comprise an opening adapted to receive a mechanical tool such
as a tip end of a drill bit fitted to the adjustment system. Such opening may be a
through hole or a blind hole on the outer surface of the sledge guide. The mechanical
tool may be any tool that can provide an adjustment of the adjustment system such
that the second end of the adjustment arm is displaced related to the sledge guide
through the adjustment system. The mechanical tool may be fitted to the adjustment
screw of the adjustment system.
[0033] This may provide an easy adjustment method of the roof window that can be done with
common tools available to a person installing a window. The opening may be provided
in the sledge guide. The opening may be provided in the sledge guide in a position
close to an end of the adjustment screw. There may be two or more openings in the
sledge guide for receiving a mechanical tool fitted to the adjustment system. There
may be such openings provided symmetrically on two sides of the sledge guide. This
makes it possible to install the lifting device in more than one position and still
being able to access the adjustment system in case one opening is blocked. It may
be envisioned that the lifting device is provided in both sides of the roof window.
In a case where the roof window has been installed in a roof of a building, the adjustment
system may best be reached by the installer or user of the window through the opening
of the window. In such a case the same lifting device may be used in both sides of
the room window with equally easy access to the adjustment system in both lifting
devices.
[0034] The sledge guide may further comprise openings such as holes adapted to receive screws
for mounting the sledge guide onto the window frame.
[0035] The roof window may further comprise an insulating glazing unit. Two-layer or three-layer
glass also known as insulating glazing units (IGUs) have better thermal properties
than single layered glass but are usually heavier and more cumbersome to install and
lift. Lifting devices are therefore beneficial to use in windows comprising IGUs.
The sledge may comprise a sledge wheel configured to roll on the sledge guide and/or
a runner mounted on the sledge configured to cooperate and/or engage with the sledge
guide.
[0036] A sledge wheel may allow steering of the sledge along the length of the sledge guide.
The sledge wheel may be provided substantially next to the connection between the
sledge and the lifting arm. The lifting arm may be connected to the sledge through
the sledge wheel. By providing the sledge wheel close to the lifting arm, a greater
stability of the sledge is achieved.
[0037] The sledge wheel may additionally add support for the sledge in the sledge guide.
The sledge may additionally and/or alternatively be provided with one or more runners.
The one or more runners mounted on the sledge may provide additional support for the
sledge in the sledge guide. The runners may be made of a polymer. The runners may
comprise glass fibre. The runner may be configured to be connected to the first end
of the lifting arm and be mounted on the sledge.
[0038] The sash wheel may have a diameter of approximately 30 mm. A sash wheel with a diameter
of approximately 30 mm ensures that the sash wheel runs on the secondary frame in
a stable manner. A sash wheel of approximately 30 mm in diameter also fits well in
the lifting arm without colliding with other features. The lifting arm may be dimensioned
accordingly. A sash wheel of approximately 20 mm in diameter may also be implemented.
A sash wheel of approximately 40 mm may be further implemented.
[0039] The sash wheel may have one or more cavities or apertures. The sash wheel may have
a substantially round shape. The cavities may be positioned along the periphery of
the round sash wheel and may be equally spaced with each other.
[0040] The sash wheel may be optimised with regards to weight, material usage and strength.
Thus, a series of cavities may be provided in the sash wheel. Such cavities may be
provided through a topology optimization algorithm.
[0041] The sash wheel may be moulded. The sash wheel may be provided as a one-piece. Moulding
the sash wheel provides an easy manufacturing of the wheel while allowing incorporation
of cavities and serrations.
[0042] Other presently preferred embodiments and further advantages will be apparent from
the subsequent detailed description and drawings.
Brief Description of Drawings
[0043] In the following description, embodiments of the invention will be described with
reference to the drawings, in which
Fig. 1A is a perspective view of a roof window in an embodiment of the invention,
seen from an interior side;
Fig. 1B is perspective of the roof window of Fig. 1A, seen from an exterior side;
Fig. 1C is a perspective cross-sectional view of a roof window in another embodiment,
with the sash in an open position.
Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a lifting device for a roof window in an embodiment
according to the invention in a first operational condition.
Fig. 3A is a side view of a lifting device for a roof window in an embodiment according
to the invention in a closed position of the window and with the sledge unattached
to the spring assembly.
Fig. 3B is a side view of a lifting device for a roof window in an embodiment according
to the invention in an open position of the window and with the sledge attached to
the spring assembly.
Fig. 4 is a close-up perspective view of a lifting device for a roof window in an
embodiment according to the invention showing the sash wheel mounted in a lifting
arm and in connection with a wheel guide.
Fig. 5 is close-up perspective view of a lifting device for a roof window in another
embodiment according to the invention showing the sash wheel mounted in a lifting
arm and in connection with a wheel guide.
Fig. 6 is a close-up perspective view of a lifting device for a roof window in an
embodiment according to the invention showing part of a sledge guide, an adjustment
arm and lifting arm and how these are connected.
Fig. 7 is a close-up perspective view of a lifting device for a roof window in an
embodiment according to the invention showing part of a sledge guide, an adjustment
arm and lifting arm and how these are connected from another angle.
Fig. 8 is a close-up perspective view of a lifting device for a roof window in an
embodiment according to the invention showing part of a sledge guide, an adjustment
arm and lifting arm and how these are connected from another angle.
Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a lifting device for a roof window in an embodiment
according to the invention showing the central plane P.
Fig. 10 is a side view of a lifting device for a roof window in an embodiment according
to the invention in one operational condition where the adjustment arm is adjusted
at an angle α1 in relation to the lifting arm.
Fig. 11 is a side view of a lifting device for a roof window in an embodiment according
to the invention in another operational condition where the adjustment arm is adjusted
to an angle α2 in relation to the lifting arm by introducing a tip end of a mechanical tool such
as a drill bit into an opening in the sledge guide, where the drill bit is fitted
to an adjustment screw connected to the adjustment arm.
Fig. 12A shows a mechanical tool interacting with an adjustment system for a lifting
device for a roof window in an embodiment according to the invention adjusted for
a specific roof inclination.
Fig. 12B shows a mechanical tool interacting with an adjustment system for a lifting
device for a roof window in an embodiment according to the invention adjusted for
a roof inclination different from the one shown in Fig. 12A.
Description of Embodiments
[0044] In the following, embodiments of the lifting device and roof window will be described
in further detail. When referring to the Figures, the terms up, down, upwards, downwards,
top and bottom are taken relative to how the figures are displayed. A front view is
taken from the hinge and viewing towards the window frame. A view from behind is therefore
taken as viewed from the frame towards the hinge. A longitudinal direction is, if
nothing else is mentioned, longitudinal along the length of a member. It is to be
understood that the arrangement shown in a horizontal orientation is not the normal
orientation as the window is installed on an inclined roof.
[0045] Referring initially to Figs 1A and 1B, a roof window 100 is shown. The roof window
100 is intended to be installed in an inclined roof surface (not shown).
[0046] The roof window 100 comprises a primary frame 1, a secondary frame such as a sash
2, and a pane 4. In the shown embodiment only one secondary frame is present; however,
a further secondary frame in form of an intermediate frame may be provided, which
is well-known from roof windows that are top-hinged during normal use but which pivot
for cleaning. The primary frame 1 comprises a set of frame members including a top
frame member, two side frame members and a bottom frame member. Correspondingly, the
sash 2 comprises a set of sash members including a top sash member, two side sash
members and a bottom sash member. While the primary frame 1 and sash 2 are described
as rectangular structures, some principles of the presented concepts may be applicable
to other geometrical shapes as well.
[0047] The pane 4 comprises a number of edge portions generally associated to members of
the sash 2 as will be described in further detail below. An exterior pane surface
4e defines a plane of the roof window 100 in an assembled condition of the roof window
100. The assembled condition of the roof window 100 is achieved when main components
of the primary frame 1 and sash 2 have been assembled and the primary frame 1 and
sash 2 are connected to each other, for instance in an installed position when the
roof window 100 is ready for use. Correspondingly, an assembled condition of the sash
2 is achieved once main components of the sash 2 have been assembled, and an assembled
condition of the primary frame 1 when main components of the primary frame 1 are assembled.
The term "main components" is to be understood as encompassing primary parts of the
roof window necessary to perform all operational functions, and not including accessories
or auxiliary equipment.
[0048] An interior pane surface 4i faces the interior, typically a room of a building subjacent
the roof surface in which the roof window 100 is installed.
[0049] In the embodiments shown, the sash 2 is openable relative to the primary frame 1,
to obtain one or more open positions. In such open positions, the sash 2 and pane
4 are moved out of the plane of the roof window 1. As will be described in the following,
the sash 2 is shown as being top hung, i.e. during normal use, the sash 2 is rotated
about a substantially horizontal hinge axis at or near the top frame member and top
sash member. It is however conceivable to apply some principles of the presented concepts
for roof windows on different types of windows having other opening patterns, or being
provided as fixed skylights.
[0050] Further details shown in Fig 1A include an operating assembly, here shown as a handle.
Other operating assemblies may be present as well.
[0051] Also shown is a representative mounting bracket forming part of a plurality of mounting
brackets forming a load-transferring connection between the roof window 100 and a
surrounding roof structure (not shown). Such a roof structure may include rafters
and battens, plywood or other construction materials.
[0052] An insulating frame is shown. Insulation by an insulating frame is optional and may
be provided along only some of the frame members or as shown surrounding all four
frame members.
[0053] Referring to Fig. 1C it is shown that the roof window 100 furthermore comprises a
hinge assembly.
[0054] The hinge assembly is configured in such a way that it allows the sash 2 to be top
hung in a first operational condition corresponding to normal use. That is, during
normal use the sash 2 is rotated about a substantially horizontal first hinge axis
at or near the top frame member and top sash member between a closed position and
an open position.
[0055] Fig. 2 shows a lifting device 10 installed in a roof window 100 with a primary frame
1 and a sash 2. The lifting device is installed between the primary frame 1 and the
sash 2 and comprises a sledge guide 16 fixed to the primary frame 1 and a lifting
arm 14 with a first end 12 rotatably connected or fixed to a sledge 30 sliding in
the sledge guide 16. At a second end 13 of the lifting arm 14, a sash wheel 40 is
attached to the lifting arm 14. In Fig. 2 the connection between the sash 2 and the
lifting arm 14 is shown as a sash wheel 40 attached to the lifting arm 14 by means
of a wheel rivet 42. The sash wheel 40 is therefore in a rolling connection with the
sash 2 by means of the sash wheel 40. Other means of attachment may be envisioned.
In the embodiment shown in Fig. 2 the sash wheel 40 is configured to roll on a wheel
guide 41. The wheel guide 41 acts as a rail for the sash wheel during opening and
closing of the window. The wheel guide 41 also provides protection for the sash 2
as the sash wheel rolls on the sash 2 during opening and closing of the roof window.
The lifting arm 14 is also attached to the sledge guide 16 through an adjustment arm
52. The adjustment arm 52 is at one end rotatably attached to lifting arm 14. In Fig.
2 the adjustment arm 52 is attached to the lifting arm 14 at a point approximately
equally distanced between the first end 12 of the lifting arm 14 and the second end
13 of the lifting arm. The adjustment arm 52 can in other embodiments be rotatably
attached to the lifting arm at a point closer towards the first end 12 of the lifting
arm 14 or at a point closer towards the second end 13 of the lifting arm 14. In Fig.
2 the adjustment arm 52 is connected to the sledge guide 16 through an adjustment
system 50, which will be described further below. The adjustment arm 52 may in other
embodiments be rotatably attached to the sledge guide directly.
[0056] The sledge 30 is attached to a spring assembly 20 which is arranged to exert a force
on the sledge 30. As detailed in Fig. 3A the sledge 30 may be uncoupled from the spring
assembly 20. This may, as an example, be an advantage during installation of the roof
window where a spring force acting on the sledge 30 may make it difficult to handle
the roof window. In the cases where the lifting device is installed in the roof window
according to its intended use, the sledge 30 and the spring assembly 20 are initially
in an uncoupled state as shown in Fig. 3A. The spring assembly 20 and the sledge 30
are then coupled by opening the roof window resulting in the sledge 30 sliding towards
a coupling device such as a hook attached to a spring comprised in the spring assembly
20. Opening the roof window results in the sledge 30 engaging with the hook, as shown
in Fig. 3B, and once the roof window is subsequently closed, the sledge 30 will slide
back in a direction away from the spring assembly 20 and the spring now coupled to
the sledge 30 will exert a pulling force on the sledge 30 and provide a resistance
against the closing of the roof window. The pulling force of the spring and the weight
of the roof window are preferably balanced such that the roof window can be positioned
in an open position without closing due to its own weight or opening further due to
the pull from the spring in the spring assembly. This balance is also influenced by
the inclination of the roof that the roof window is installed in. The spring in the
spring assembly 30 may be adjusted to balance the roof window in a specific roof inclination.
If the roof window is installed in a roof with a roof inclination different than the
intended inclination, the spring force acting on the sledge will not be balanced to
the weight of the window. In one example, the spring may exert too much force on the
window thereby forcing the window to open further. In another example, the spring
may be too weak, and the window will close due to its own weight. In both cases, the
window is difficult for the user to operate and potentially hazardous. To easily adjust
the roof window according to roof inclination, an adjustment system as shown in Figs.
2 - 3 and 6 - 11 may be used. In these embodiments, the adjustment system is installed
to adjust the position of the second end of the adjustment arm 52 in the sledge guide
16. Alternatively, it may be envisioned that the adjustment system 50 is instead installed
in the lifting arm 14 such that the first end of the adjustment arm is attached to
the lifting arm 14 through an adjustment system and the second end of the adjustment
arm is attached to the sledge guide.
[0057] In Figs. 3A and 3B a sliding disc 43 on the lifting arm 14 is present. A further
sliding disc may be arranged on the other side of the lifting arm 14 as well. The
sliding disc reduces the distance to the sledge guide 16 and adds stability to the
lifting arm as it travels from an open to a closed position or vice versa.
[0058] An adjustment arm rivet 57 - better shown in Fig. 3B - connects the lifting arm 14
to the adjustment arm 52 firmly, while enabling their rotational movement with respect
to each other.
[0059] Fig. 4 shows a sash wheel 40 in a wheel guide 41 where the wheel guide 41 is provided
with longitudinal flanges projecting from both longitudinal edges of the wheel guide
thereby forming a channel which the sash wheel 40 can move in. Fig. 5 shows an alternative
embodiment of the lifting device 10 where the wheel guide 41 is configured as a plate.
Generally, the second end of the lifting arm may also comprise flanges that surround
the sash wheel or part of the sash wheel, as shown in Fig. 5.
[0060] Figs. 6 and 7 each shows a part of the lifting device with the lifting arm 14 extending
upwards and away from the sledge 30. In these embodiments the lifting arm 14 comprises
a first lifting arm 141 and a second lifting arm 142 with the two lifting arms 141,
142 arranged on opposite sides of the adjustment arm 52. The two lifting arms 141,
142 are preferably similarly shaped with both the sash wheel and adjustment arm arranged
between the two lifting arms 141, 142. The wheel rivet 42 displayed in Figs. 4 and
5 may be used as means to keep the two lifting arms 141, 142 fixed to each other.
Other means may also be used to keep the two lifting arms 141, 142 fixed to each other.
The two lifting arms 141, 142 may be fixed to each other through the attachment to
the adjustment arm 52 and through the attachment to the sledge 30. Each of these means
of fixing the two lifting arms to each other may be used in combination or individually.
As also depicted in Figs. 6 and 7, the adjustment arm 52 comprises a first adjustment
arm 521 and a second adjustment arm 522. The two lifting arms 141, 142 are symmetrically
arranged with regards to a central plane P, shown in Fig. 9. Similarly, the two adjustment
arms 521, 522 are symmetrically arranged with regards to the central plane P.
[0061] Figs. 6 and 7 additionally show the adjustment system 50. Fig. 6 particularly shows
an adjustment slot 55 with an adjustment bushing 54 engaged with the adjustment slot
55. In this embodiment the adjustment slot 55 is a linear slit -in the form of a track-
on an outer part of the sledge guide 16 limiting the adjustment bushing 54 and thereby
the adjustment arm 52 to travel in a linear direction in the adjustment slot 55. The
adjustment slot 55 may alternatively be slightly curved such that the adjustment arm
52 travels in a semi-circle. The longitudinal direction of the adjustment slot 55
may additionally or alternatively be arranged in a direction substantially in parallel
with the sliding direction of the sledge. The longitudinal direction of the adjustment
slot 55 may in other embodiments travel in a direction that is perpendicular to the
sliding direction of the sledge 30 in the sledge guide 16.
[0062] Fig. 7 shows a sledge guide rivet 58 for added stability of the lifting device 10.
The sledge guide rivet 58 locks the two sides of the sledge guide to each other and
simultaneously ensure that the adjustment system also shown in Fig. 7 is kept in place.
[0063] Fig. 8 shows a lifting device 10 for a roof window from a top perspective view. It
is clearly shown that in this embodiment the first and the second adjustment arms
521, 522 are distanced and separated from each other at their attachment to the adjustment
system 50, but are attached to each to other at a point located close to their attachment
to the adjustment system 50 and up until their attachment to the lifting arms 141,
142. Alternatively, the adjustment arms 521, 522 may each have a longer inclined portion
and an attachment point closer to the attachment to the lifting arm.
[0064] Fig. 9 shows a perspective view of the lifting device in an open position, where
a central plane P is illustrated. The imaginary central plane P extends in a longitudinal
or length direction L and height direction H and is defined as the plane where the
respective forces exerted by the lifting arm and the adjustment arm are balanced.
The central plane P intersects the sledge guide 16 in the middle of the width of the
sledge guide 16. The width is defined as extending in the width direction, the width
direction being perpendicular to the length direction. The two lifting arms 141, 142
are therefore symmetrically arranged with respect to a central plane P. In Fig. 9
the sledge guide is shown as extending along the length direction that defines the
central plane P. The lifting device is shown in an open position and the lifting arm
extends substantially in the height direction in this open position. When the lifting
device 10 is in the closed position, such as shown in Fig. 3A, the lifting arm extends
substantially along the length direction together with the sledge guide. Similarly,
the two adjustment arms 521, 522 are symmetrically arranged with respect to the central
plane P. The two lifting arms 141, 142 are positioned such that the forces exerted
by the lifting arm 14 onto the central plane P are balanced. Furthermore, the sledge
guide 16 is symmetrical with respect to the central plane P. The lifting arm 14 comprises
a first lifting arm 141 and a second lifting arm 142 arranged symmetrically with respect
to the central plane P.
[0065] Figs. 10 and 11 show a lifting device from a side view. In Fig. 10, the adjustment
arm 52 is adjusted such that its second end is in a position creating an angle α
1 between the lifting arm 14 and the adjustment arm when the window is in an open position.
[0066] In Fig. 11, the roof window is in the same open position as in Fig. 10 and the second
end of the adjustment arm 52 is adjusted such that the angle between the adjustment
arm 52 and the lifting arm 14 is an angle α
2. In Fig. 11 it is also visualized how the adjustment arm 52 can be adjusted by means
of a mechanical tool 60 such as a drill bit fitted and rotated into an opening 161
in the sledge guide 16 of the lifting device 10, also shown in Figs 2, 3. The adjustment
arm 52 shown in Fig. 10 is arranged for a roof window installed in a roof with an
inclination of approximately 65°, whereas the roof window shown in Fig. 11 is arranged
for a roof window installed in a roof with an inclination of approximately 15°. By
adjusting the adjustment arm 52 to a position in between these two extremes the forces
can be balanced for roof inclinations varying in the range of 15° to 65°. The adjustment
system may also adjust the lifting device to operate smoothly in roof windows installed
in lower or higher roof inclinations, such as 10° or 70°.
[0067] Figs. 12A - 12B show an example of how a mechanical tool and an adjustment system
may interact. In Fig. 12A a mechanical tool 60 is shown to fit into the opening 161
in the sledge guide 16. The mechanical tool 60 has a drill bit fitted to the adjustment
screw 53. Fig. 12A shows how an adjustment bushing 52 may be fitted onto the adjustment
screw 52. Fig. 12A also shows how the adjustment bushing 52 is fitted to an adjustment
slot 55. By turning the mechanical tool 60 in this embodiment shown as a drill bit,
the adjustment screw 53 is turned. This results in the adjustment bushing 52 being
moved along the length direction of the adjustment screw 53 and as well to move along
in the adjustment slot. As can be seen from Fig. 12A, the adjustment slot 55 has indications
showing what roof inclination the adjustment system 50 is adjusted for. In Fig. 12A
the adjustment system 50 is adjusted to a roof inclination of approximately 15°. In
Fig. 12B the adjustment system 50 is adjusted to a roof inclination of approximately
65°. In Fig. 12B it is shown how the adjustment arm 52 may be connected to the adjustment
bushing 52.
[0068] 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
[0069]
- 1
- Primary frame
- 2
- Secondary frame
- 4
- Pane
- 4i
- Interior pane surface
- 4e
- Exterior pane surface
- 10
- Lifting device
- 12
- First end of lifting arm
- 13
- Second end of lifting arm
- 14
- Lifting arm
141 First lifting arm
142 Second lifting arm
- 16
- Sledge guide
161 opening
- 20
- Spring assembly
- 30
- Sledge
- 31
- Sledge wheel
- 40
- Sash wheel
- 41
- Wheel guide
- 42
- Wheel rivet
- 43
- Sliding disc
- 50
- Adjustment system
- 52
- Adjustment arm
521 First adjustment arm
522 Second adjustment arm
- 53
- Adjustment screw
- 54
- Adjustment bushing
- 55
- Adjustment slot
- 56
- Adjustment base
- 57
- Adjustment arm rivet
- 58
- Sledge guide rivet
- 60
- Mechanical tool
- 100
- Roof window
- P
- Central plane
- H
- Height direction
- L
- Length direction
- α1
- Angle
- α2
- Angle
1. A roof window (100), comprising
a stationary primary frame (1),
at least one secondary frame (2), such as a sash and/or an intermediate frame, and
a lifting device (10) comprising a lifting arm (14) inserted between the primary frame
(1) and the at least one secondary frame (2), the lifting arm (14) having a first
end (12) rotatably connected with a sledge (30) slidably connected with the primary
frame (1) in a sledge guide (16) and a second end (13) connected with the at least
one secondary frame (2), the lifting device (10) furthermore comprising a spring assembly
(20) configured to be coupled to the sledge (30),
the lifting device (10) further comprising an adjustment arm (52) having a first end
rotatably connected to the lifting arm (14) and a second end rotatably connected to
the sledge guide (16),
wherein the second end (13) of the lifting arm (14) is arranged to move translationally
along the secondary frame (2).
2. A roof window (100) according to claim 1, wherein the second end (13) of the lifting
arm (14) and the secondary frame (2) have a roller connection via a sash wheel (40).
3. A roof window (100) according to claim 2, wherein the sash wheel (40) is configured
to roll on a wheel guide (41) during an opening and or closing movement of the roof
window, the wheel guide (41) being connected to the secondary frame (2).
4. A roof window (100) according to any one of claims 2 and 3, wherein the lifting arm
(14) is connected to the sash wheel (40) via a sash wheel rivet (42).
5. A roof window (100) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the sash wheel
(40) comprises 25 - 45 %vol glass fibre.
6. A roof window (100) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the sash wheel
(40) and/or wheel guide (41) have fitting serrations.
7. A roof window (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the adjustment
arm (52) is rotatably connected to the sledge guide (16) through an adjustment system
(50).
8. A roof window (100) according to claim 7, wherein the adjustment arm (52) and the
lifting arm (14) are connected at an angle (α1),
wherein the angle (α1) is configured to assume a second angle (α2) by adjusting the position of the second end of the adjustment arm (52) by means
of the adjustment system (50).
9. A roof window (100) according to any of claims 7-8, wherein the adjustment system
(50) comprises an adjustment screw (53).
10. A roof window (100) according to claim 9, wherein the adjustment system (50) further
comprises an adjustment bushing (54), wherein the second end of the adjustment arm
(52) is connected to the adjustment screw (53) through the adjustment bushing (54).
11. A roof window (100) according to any of claims 7 - 10, the sledge guide (16) further
comprising an adjustment slot (55), wherein the adjustment system (50) is configured
to be accommodated in the adjustment slot (55).
12. A roof window (100) according to claims 10 and 11, wherein the adjustment bushing
(54) is configured to be engaged with the adjustment slot (55).
13. A roof window (100) according to any of claims 7 - 12, wherein the sledge guide (16)
comprises an opening (161) adapted to receive a mechanical tool such as a tip end
of a drill bit fitted to the adjustment screw (53).
14. A roof window (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the roof
window further comprises an insulating glazing unit.
15. A roof window (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sledge
(30) comprises a sledge wheel (31) configured to roll on the sledge guide (16) and/or
a runner mounted on the sledge configured to cooperate and/or engage with the sledge
guide (16).
16. A roof window (100) according to any one of the claims 7-15, wherein the adjustment
system (50) further comprises an adjustment base (56) fixed to the sledge guide (16).
17. A roof window (100) according to claim 2, wherein the sash wheel (40) has a diameter
of approximately 30 mm.
18. A roof window (100) according to claim 2, wherein the sash wheel (40) has one or more
cavities.
19. A roof window (100) according to claim 2, wherein the sash wheel (40) is moulded.