ES2980395T3 - A window installation system, and a method of installing a roof window - Google Patents

Abstract

The window installation system comprises a set of parts for protecting a window frame in a window installation process. The window frame has an upper frame member (300), a lower frame member (200), a first side frame member (100) and a second side frame member (100) defining a central opening, the set of parts comprising: a lower protection member (11); and two side protection members (12, 13) configured to connect to the lower protection member, thereby forming a protection unit (10) in a use condition. (Automatic translation with Google Translate, without legal value)

Description

DESCRIPTION

A window installation system, and a method of installing a roof window

Technical field

The present invention relates to a window installation system comprising a kit of parts, and to a roof window having a window frame and a sash. The invention further relates to a method of installing a roof window.

Background of the technique

When installing windows, in particular roof windows on a pitched roof, the typical installation process involves mounting the stationary window frame in a first stage to allow easy access to the outside without necessarily going out onto the roof surface. During this procedure, mounting brackets and auxiliary equipment such as under-roofs etc. are installed, but the frame opening is sometimes also used to climb through, either from the outside and vice versa. Also during the installation process, the sash has to be temporarily mounted to ensure that the frame forms a proper rectangle, without asymmetry, which can be observed when the sash is closed and opened. The sash is then dismantled again and a possible adaptation of the frame position is carried out. This stage of the procedure is repeated until a satisfactory fit has been achieved. It is known that the most sensitive times for a window are when the installer is bringing in and removing the window sash and this is when damage is most likely to occur. The stage of fitting the sash into the frame usually involves coupling the hinge parts of the sash with the hinge parts of the frame. Since the sash carrying the panel is relatively heavy and can be cumbersome to handle, particularly for wide and/or tall windows, the coupling process is challenging and typically involves two people. There are several critical points when an installer works around the window; he may damage parts of the frame or sash, even if the procedure is carried out with great care: when removing from the frame, while reassembling the sash and frame, when passing the sash to the outside, when working inside hanging tools, with shoes while climbing up and down the roof, when reaching parts through the frame to the outside, when the roof is dirty and wet, etc.

Traditionally, experienced installers use cardboard or towels to protect the frame, but this solution can get wet or blown away and does not offer high standard protection for the frame.

EP 3252249 A1 describes a roof window with a bottom protection member and two side protection members for covering the bottom and side frame members.

After the damage has occurred, a contact kit can be used but there is no definitive solution to the problem. Therefore, there is a need for a window installation system that includes a parts kit to provide further assistance to the installer in a window installation process.

Compendium of invention

Against this background, it is therefore an object of the invention to provide a window installation system, wherein the above-mentioned disadvantages are mitigated or even overcome.

In a first aspect, this and other objects are achieved by a window installation system of the type mentioned in the introduction, which is further characterized by the features of claim 1.

In this way, it is possible to provide a protection unit which substantially prevents direct contact between objects, such as, for example, a sash, tools, body parts, etc., and at least the covered inner portions of the window frame, thereby protecting the window frame in the window installation process. Furthermore, the protection unit acts as a support for the sash prior to the engagement of the hinges for fitting the sash into the window frame and as a guide during the engagement of the hinge parts, thus assisting the installer in the installation process.

The expression "protection" should be interpreted, within the context of this application, as a protective, shielding and/or covering action to prevent a damage of the window frame or window sash. The side members may have a predefined length of at least 10 cm in order to protect the side in a way that will limit most of the damage that may occur while handling, installing or removing a window frame. The window frame may be disassembled in a package, assembled or disassembled in a free state or may be mounted on a stationary window frame. The advantage of this window frame protection solution includes: avoiding direct contact between a sash to be installed on the window frame and the interior portions of the window frame, more specifically avoiding damage of the window frame when the sash is removed from the frame, while the sash and frame are being reassembled, and when passing the sash to the outside, when working inside from hanging tools, with shoes while climbing on and off the roof, when reaching parts through the frame to the outside, when the roof is dirty and wet. Therefore, the protection unit is in a U-shaped configuration in a usable condition, providing robustness and adequate protection for the window frame.

Furthermore, the lower protection member of the protection unit may be configured to cover substantially the entire inner portion and the outer portion of the lower frame member facing the central opening, the predefined length of the lower protection member being substantially equal to the inner width of the window and a width of the lower protection member substantially corresponding to a depth of the lower frame member. This solution will allow to protect the entire surface of the lower part of the window and this will prevent most of the damages that may occur in the window installation process.

The choice of material for the parts kit can, in principle, be chosen depending on whether it is intended for repeated use, etc. Preferably, a "soft material" should be chosen which best allows a damage-free fall of any type of objects, including the sash, into the window frame. The term "soft material" may include expanded polypropylene (EPP), expanded polystyrene (EPS), rubber or any solid material which, thanks to its porous structure, can discharge a free fall of an object. A "hard material" may also be chosen to have a more rigid structure. The term "hard material" may include solid metals such as aluminium, brass, titanium, bronze, iron, steel, copper, silicon bronze, monel and/or alloys of the metals or natural materials such as wood or synthetic materials such as plastic. A combination of soft and hard materials may also be chosen for the parts kit.

In another embodiment, at least one side protection member, at a connection line with the lower protection member, may be adapted to be folded so as to protrude into the plane of the lower protection member thereby facilitating easy and compact storage. The connection line may be made, for example, by deforming, striking or weakening the material along the folding line, or by applying a strip, an adhesive or the like. Alternatively, the connection line may be made with joints that allow the side protection members to be folded so as to protrude into the plane of the lower protection member.

The parts kit can also be adapted to be stored and reused one or more times. Preferably, the parts kit, when folded, will take up minimal space which can make the kit easier to store. Also, if the parts kit can be made from a durable material, it can be reused multiple times to protect a window frame.

The protective unit of the kit of parts may be provided as separate parts, but in a presently preferred embodiment, the protective unit is a single, one-piece unit. The term "single unit" implies that the kit of parts is a single piece and all members are integrally connected to each other. An advantage of using a single unit is that the kit of parts does not have to be assembled or deployed and the kit of parts is already in protective form and ready for use.

The lower protection member and the side protection members can be connected after being assembled. The expression "assembled" should be interpreted, within the context of this application, as an assembly technique, including releasable fastening means such as, for example, screws, interlocking fingers or adhesive technique including adhesive means, glue, fastening strap, tape, Velcro. One of the advantages of this solution is that the kit of parts can be easily included in the window packaging and thus supplied with the window packaging protecting the parts of the window frame when they are disassembled. Another advantage is that it can be easily assembled when needed.

In another presently preferred embodiment, the lower protection member is composed of multiple pieces, preferably having an individually tailored profiling. This is particularly advantageous in a modular window installation system where a range of pieces with various lengths and individual profiles form part of the window installation system, so that a variety of window sizes can be accommodated.

According to a second aspect, a method is provided for installing a roof window.

A further scope of applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. However, it is to be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating preferred variants of the present inventive concept, are given by way of illustration only, as various changes and modifications within the scope of the inventive concept and as defined in the appended claims will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.

Therefore, it should be understood that this inventive concept is not limited to the particular steps of the described methods or the component parts of the described systems since said method and system may vary, so long as they remain within the limitations set forth by the appended claims.

It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting. It should be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claim, the terms "a," "an," "the," and "said" are intended to mean that there is one or more of the elements unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a unit" or "the unit" may include various devices, and the like. Furthermore, the words "comprising," "including," "containing," and similar expressions do not exclude other elements or steps.

Brief description of the drawings

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

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a roof window comprising a frame and a sash;

Figure 2a is a perspective view of the roof window frame of Figure 1;

Figure 2b is a larger partial perspective view of the lower left corner of the frame in Figure 2a;

Figure 3 is a perspective view of the roof window sash of Figure 1;

Figure 4a is a perspective view of a protection unit in a first embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 4b is a view of the protection unit of Figure 4a, seen from another angle;

Figure 4c is an exploded view of the protection unit of Figures 4a and 4b;

Figures 5a to 5f are a series of schematic views showing steps in an example of an inventive method of installing a roof window, of which Figure 5c is a photograph corresponding to detail Vc of Figure 5b, and Figures 5d to 5f are photographs;

Figure 6 is a perspective view of a protection unit in a second embodiment of the invention; Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of a protection unit in a third embodiment of the invention;

Figures 8a and 8b are exploded perspective views of a protection unit in a fourth embodiment of the invention;

Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of a further development of the protection unit in the third embodiment shown in Figure 7;

Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of a protection unit in a fifth embodiment of the invention;

Figure 11 is a larger-scale partial perspective view of details of the protection unit of Figure 10;

Figure 12 is an exploded perspective view of a protection unit in a sixth embodiment of the invention;

Figure 13 is a larger-scale partial perspective view of details of the protection unit of Figure 12;

Figure 14 is a partial exploded perspective view of a detail protection unit of the protection unit of Figures 12 and 13;

Figure 15 is an exploded perspective view of a protection unit in a seventh embodiment of the invention;

Figure 16 is a perspective view of an eighth embodiment of a protection unit according to the invention; and Figures 17 to 21 are views of a ninth embodiment of a protection unit according to the invention.

Detailed description

The present inventive concept will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which presently preferred variants of the inventive concept are shown. This inventive concept may, however, be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the variants set forth herein; rather, these variants are provided for completeness and comprehensiveness, and fully convey the scope of the present inventive concept to the person skilled in the art.

Figures 1 to 3

Referring initially to Figure 1, there is shown a roof window 1, with a window frame 2, having an upper frame member 300, a lower frame member 200 and two side frame members 100, defining a central opening. The window will be referred to as a "roof window" and just "window" in equal terms. The invention is intended, in particular, to be used in a roof window, to be installed in a sloped roof surface. Directional terms such as, for example, "upper", "lower", etc., refer to the position shown in the drawings. "Top", "lower", "side" indicate the position in the assembled condition of the window and are used for convenience and should not be considered limiting. The invention is, in principle, applicable to all types of windows for installation in all types of roofs, including flat roofs, and facades.

Figure 1 shows the roof window 1 viewed from the side of the roof window that faces the interior side of a building structure in which the roof window 1 is installed. The frame 2 is stationary when the roof window 1 is in an assembled condition. A sash 3 carrying a panel 4 is connected to the frame 2 by means of a set of hinges 5, such that the sash 3 can pivot about a substantially centrally located axis between an open and closed position relative to the stationary frame 2. In correspondence with the members of the window frame 2, the sash 3 has an upper sash member 600, a lower sash member 500 and two side sash members 400.

A cover assembly 6 is also provided comprising liners 61, covers 62 and a top box 63. These elements form part of a cover assembly for protecting the outer parts of the window from the weather.

The hinges 5 may also be located further upwards, towards the top of the stationary frame 2 and the sash 3. In order to bring the sash 3 into a ventilation and various open positions, an operating member 7 is provided in the upper sash member 600 such that a locking mechanism 8, also in the upper sash member 600, is disengaged from a strike plate (not shown) in the upper member 300 of the frame 2 in a manner known per se. Examples of so-called pivot hinges are shown in Figures 2a and 3 and a detailed description of such a hinge is present, for example, in the applicant's documents EP1612352A1, WO 85/02646, WO 99/28581 and EP3486413A1. The invention is also applicable to so-called pantograph hinges, as described in the applicant's documents WO2017076416A1 and EP3252255A1.

In Figure 2a, the sash 3 has been removed from the frame 2, and in Figure 3, the sash 3 is shown separately. The sash 3 is typically connected to the frame 2 in a delivery condition of a window installation system of the invention, in that a sash hinge part 53 of each hinge 5 is in engagement with a frame hinge part 52 of the corresponding hinge 5 by respective coupling means. In the specific example where the hinge 5 is a pivot hinge, the disengagement is carried out in that the coupling means of the sash hinge part 53, in the form of a sliding bar (not shown in detail), are removed from the coupling means of the frame hinge part 52, in the form of a guide (not shown in detail) of the frame hinge part 52.

By the terms "outside" and "inside" are meant mutually opposite sides of components of the roof window 1, in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of the panel 4. The terms "outside" and "inside" are used to mean, for example, mutually opposite sides of the frame members 100, 200, 300, substantially in a direction parallel to the plane of the panel 4.

Each of the frame members 100, 200, 300 has an inner side facing the central opening. The inner sides of the respective frame members 100, 200, 300 each comprise an outer portion 102, 202 (outer portion of the upper frame member 300 not visible), which, when the window is in the closed position, is covered by the sash 3 and therefore not visible from the inside of the building structure, and an inner portion of which the inner portion 101 of the side member 100 shown on the right in Figure 1 and the inner portion 201 of the lower frame member 200 are visible. The inner portions 101, 201 are not covered by the sash 3, when the window is in the closed position. Reference numeral 101 will be used to indicate the inner portion of each of the side members 100, since these members are, in general, inverted with respect to each other. Thus, the inner portion 101, 201 of each frame member 100, 200, 300 is visible from the inner side of the building structure in both the open and closed positions of the sash. Finally, each of the stationary frame members 100, 200, 300 also has a bottom surface 103, 203, 303 which here, in a manner known per se, includes a slot adapted to receive a lining that forms a transition between the roof window 1 and an inner wall of the building in which the roof window 1 is installed.

As shown in Figure 2a, the lower frame member 200 of the window frame 2 defines an inner width wi. In the specific embodiment of the kit of parts and window installation system according to the invention, wherein the frame members 300, 200, 100 are staggered to provide stepped outer portions, the inner width wi is the distance between mutually facing inner portions 101 of the first and second side frame members 100, which is substantially uniform along the height of the frame 2. However, other frame configurations are conceivable and the respective dimensions of a protection unit 10 of the kit of parts to be described in more detail below are relative as will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art.

Reference will now also be made to the enlarged view of Figure 2b, which shows the lower left corner as seen from the inside. In the embodiment shown, the outer portions 102, 202 of the inner sides of each of the frame members 100, 200, 300 are offset relative to the inner portions 101, 101, 201 to form a space in which the sash 3 is received when the window is in a closed position.

Figures 4a to 4c

Referring now to Figures 4a to 4c, a first embodiment of a kit of parts for protecting at least the lower parts of the stationary frame 2 in a window installation process will be described in more detail.

Figure 4a illustrates the kit of parts for protecting a window frame in a window installation process, comprising: a bottom protection member 11; and a first and a second side protection members 12 and 13. In the following, reference will be made to the side protection members 12, 13 jointly or individually; the side protection members 12, 13 may be formed identically, inverted, but variations are also conceivable.

The lower protection member 11 is formed with a predefined length lb and each side protection member 12, 13, with a predefined length ls. The side protection members 12, 13 are connected or connectable to the lower protection member 11, thereby forming the protection unit 10 of the kit of parts of the invention. The protection unit 10 is adapted to at least partially cover the inner portion 201 of the lower frame member 200 and the inner portion 101 of at least one of the first and second side frame members 100 in the use position in the assembled condition of the roof window 1, in a U-shaped configuration in a use condition, comprising a lower protection member 11 and two side protection members 12, 13 of substantially equal length ls.

In the embodiment shown, the lower guard member 11 is configured to cover substantially the entire inner portion 201 of the lower frame member 200 facing the central opening such that the predefined length lb of the lower guard member 11 is substantially equal to the inner width wi of the window. Furthermore, the lower guard member 11 also covers in this case the outer portion 202 of the lower frame member 200 such that a width of the lower guard member 11 substantially corresponds to a depth of the lower frame member 200.

According to the invention, the window frame 2 is formed such that the inner side outer portion 202 of the lower frame members 200 is offset relative to the inner portion 201 to form a stepped portion and the lower protection member 11 comprises a first portion 115 having a first thickness; and a second portion 116 having a second thickness. The second thickness is different from the first thickness to provide a predefined profiling of the lower protection member 11. The lower protection member 11 comprises a base portion 110 with a first longitudinal edge 111 and an opposite second longitudinal edge 112, each extending between one end edge 113 and another end edge 114 and defining the length lb of the lower protection member 11. The first portion 115 has a reduced thickness relative to the second portion 116 defining a shoulder 117 extending substantially parallel to and located substantially midway between the first and second longitudinal edges 111, 112 of the lower protection member 11, and the first portion 115 is positioned adjacent to the first longitudinal edge 111 and configured to cover the inner portion 201 of the lower frame member 200 while the second portion 116 is positioned adjacent to the second longitudinal edge 112 and configured to cover the outer portion 202 of the lower frame member 200 of the frame 2 of the roof window 1. In this manner, the profiling of the outer side of the protection unit 10 is made to conform to the profiling of the inner sides of the window frame in the lower frame member 200. Furthermore, a cavity 110r is formed in the base portion 110 adjacent to the second longitudinal edge 112. This makes it possible to adjust a blade with a lower handle and also provides a gripping area for the installer.

Correspondingly, each side protection member 12, 13 comprises a base portion 130 with a first longitudinal edge 131 and an opposite second longitudinal edge 132, each extending between one end edge 133 and another end edge 134. As shown, the other end edge 134 of the side protection member 12, 13 has a profiling corresponding to the profiling of the lower protection member 11.

In a delivery condition, the lower protection member 11 and the side protection member(s) 12 and 13 are configured to be assembled, thereby forming the protection unit. This may take place at the construction site. The protection unit 10 may constitute an element of a kit of parts in a window installation system comprising a larger number of components to assist the installer throughout the installation process. For example, parts of the protection units may be adapted to be stored and reused one or more times, for example in a storage container such as a box, a bag, a net, a strap device.

The material, or combination of materials, of the parts of the protection unit can be chosen in any suitable way. A suitable example may be to form the lower protection member 11 and the side protection members 12, 13 from expanded polypropylene EPP or expanded polystyrene EPS. The incorporation of hard plastic and/or metal is also conceivable.

Figures 5a to 5f

Referring now to Figures 5a to 5f, the installation of the roof window 1 by means of the kit of parts forming the protection unit 10 of the first embodiment will be described in more detail.

The roof window 1 is provided as described above. A protection unit 10 is formed by a kit of parts as described above, which includes the lower protection member 11 and the two side protection members 12, 13.

Referring first to Figure 5a, the window frame 2 is mounted on the pitched roof structure (not shown as such). The protection unit 10 is positioned to at least partially cover the inner face of the lower frame member 200.

Referring now to Figure 5b, the sash 3 is placed in the guard unit 10 0, with at least the upper sash member 600 in contact with the guard unit 10 such that the guard unit 10 supports the sash 3. In the detail view of Figure 5c, it is shown how the upper corner of the sash 3 is supported by the guard unit 10. It is seen that the sash 3 is placed upside down and inwards so to speak, in preparation for the subsequent rotation of the sash 3 relative to the window frame 2.

The installation of the sash 3 can take place either from the inside, i.e. from the room in which the roof window 1 is to be installed, or from the roof, i.e. from the outside. In case the sash 3 is mounted from the outside, lifting the sash 3 into position can take place by means of a crane, as represented by the crane cup 9 in Figure 5d. From Figure 5d it is furthermore clear how one of the sash hinge parts 53 engages with the corresponding frame hinge parts 52. The coupling takes place by allowing the protection unit 10 to guide the sash 3.

Subsequently, the protection unit 10 is removed as shown in Figure 5e, and the sash 3 rotates to its closed position relative to the window frame 2 as shown in Figure 5f.

In the specific embodiment of the protection unit 10, where the cavity 110r is formed in the base portion 110 adjacent the second longitudinal edge 112 and the locking mechanism 8 is positioned to protrude into the sheet 3, the step of placing the sheet 3 in the protection unit 10 comprises placing the locking mechanism 8 on the upper sheet member 600 in the cavity 110r.

Figure 6

Referring now to Figure 6, a second embodiment will be described in more detail. Elements having the same or analogous function as the first embodiment bear the same reference numerals with the addition of 2000. Only the differences from the first embodiment will be described in detail.

In this embodiment, the protective unit is a single, one-piece protective unit 2010, which may be formed as a molded protective unit, for example, of PPE.

Figures 7 to 9

Referring now to Figures 7 to 9, a third and a fourth embodiment will be described in more detail. Elements having the same or analogous function as the first embodiment bear the same reference numerals with 3000 and 4000 added, respectively. Only the differences from the first embodiment will be described in detail.

Here, the lower protection member 3011; 4011 is composed of multiple pieces 3111a, 3111b, 3111c, 3111d; 4111a, 4111b, 4111c, 4111d, 4111e that act as building bricks that can be assembled to adapt the length lb of the lower protection element to the specific width wi of the window frame 2. The pieces can have an individually adapted profiling, for example to provide a cavity corresponding to the cavity 110r of the first embodiment. In this way, a range of pieces with various lengths and individual profiles can be part of the window installation system, so that a variety of window sizes can be accommodated.

Referring in particular to Figure 8a, it is seen how a piece 4111a, 4111d; of the lower guard member 4011 is integral with an associated side guard member 4013, 4012 to form a corner unit. By the term "integral" is meant that it is not intended to be separated, including one-piece configurations and configurations of two or more connected parts.

This corner unit can be easily combined with at least one other piece 4111b, 4111c, 4111e connected to or connectable to the one piece 4111a, 4111d of the lower protection member 4011 in the use condition.

The connection between the pieces of the lower guard member 3011 and the side guard members 3012, 3013 to the lower guard member will now be described with reference to Figure 9, wherein the pieces 3111a, 3111b of the lower guard member 3011 are shown connected to each other by at least one rod 3119a, 3119b extending in the longitudinal direction of the lower guard member and received in an associated track 3110a, 3110b in the lower guard member 3011. In this manner, the rods 3119a and 3119b of the shown embodiment act as pins holding the pieces together in a frictional, force-fit engagement. Connection to the side shield members 3012 and 3013, respectively, may be accomplished in a corresponding manner as indicated in Figure 9. The corner unit pieces 4111a, 4111d of the shield unit (4010) embodiment may be connected to each other in a similar manner, in which case there are pins on only one track to interact with the empty track of the other corner unit, or to another adjacent intermediate piece 4111b, 4111c and/or 4111e.

Figures 10 to 14

Referring now to Figures 10 to 14, fifth and sixth embodiments will be described in more detail. Elements having the same or analogous function as the first embodiment bear the same reference numerals with 5000 and 6000 added, respectively. Only the differences from the previous embodiments will be described in detail.

Here, the pieces 5111a, 5111b, 5111c; 6111c, 6111b, 6111f, 6111g of the lower guard member 5011; 6011 are connected to each other by at least one rod 5119a, 5119b; 6119b extending in the longitudinal direction of the lower guard member and received in an associated track 5110a, 5110b in the lower guard member 3011; 5011; 6011 as shown for the third embodiment above.

However, in the fifth embodiment, the pieces 5111a, 5111b, 5111c of the lower guard member 5011 are slidably connected to each other by means of rods 5119a, 5119b slidably received in the associated track 5110a, 5110b in the lower guard member 5011 such that the length of the lower guard member 5011 is adjustable. In turn, this means that one and the same guard unit 5010 can be used in window frames 2 within a range of sizes. Therefore, when the lower guard member 5011 is in a position where all the pieces 5111a, 5111b, 5111c slide together, the predefined length lb corresponds to the combined lengths of the individual pieces 5111a, 5111b, 5111c, while two or all three pieces 5111a, 5111b, 5111c slide partially or completely outward on the rods 5119a, 5119b, the predefined length lb is extended to fit the inner width wi of the window size in question. As shown in Figure 10, this also means that an intermediate space is formed between adjacent pieces 5111a and 5111b and/or 511b and 5111c, respectively. Although the inner portion 201 and the outer portion 202 of the lower frame member 200 are therefore partially exposed, the thickness of the lower guard unit 5010 combined with a suitable maximum outward sliding length provides sufficient overall protection of the window frame.

Referring now to Figures 12 through 14, a member 6111g is shown rotatable relative to another member 6111f about rod 6119b. In a window installation system configured to accommodate a variety of window sizes, requiring the mounting of multiple members of various profiles, it is thus possible to use such a member universally since it is configured to adopt an inverted position on the lower guard member 6011 of the mounted guard unit 6010 while still providing a good fit with the window frame and the intended guard.

Figure 15

Referring now to Figure 15, a seventh embodiment will be described in more detail. Elements having the same or analogous function as the first embodiment bear the same reference numerals with 7000 added. Only the differences from the above embodiments will be described in detail.

In one embodiment comprising an alternative connection form, the pieces 7111 a-7111x of the lower guard member 7010 are connected to each other by a piece connecting fitting 7119c that allows for a releasable snap connection between the pieces 7111 a-711x of the lower guard member 7011 of the guard unit 7010. A corner connecting fitting 7119d is configured herein to connect the side guard member 7012 to the adjacent piece 7111a of the lower guard member 7011. Snap connections involving a form-locking or force-locking engagement between parts are well known to the person skilled in the art and provide for quick, yet reliable engagement and disengagement.

Figure 16

Referring now to Figure 16, an eighth embodiment will be described in more detail. Elements having the same or analogous function as the first embodiment bear the same reference numerals with 8000 added. Only the differences from the above embodiments will be described in detail.

Another variant of the connection between pieces of the lower protection unit is shown in Figure 16. Here, pieces 8111a, 8111b, 8111c of the lower protection member 8011 are connected to each other by a protection element 8118a, 8118b in a slidable connection. In this way, it is possible to adjust the predefined length lb of the lower protection unit 8010. Between adjacent pieces an intermediate space is formed; however, such intermediate spaces are covered by the respective protection element. In embodiments where at least one piece 8111a of the lower protection member 8011 is integral with an associated side protection member 8013 to form a corner unit, a corresponding protection element is provided as a corner protection element 8118a.

Figures 17 to 21

Referring now to Figures 17 to 21, a ninth embodiment will be described in more detail. Elements having the same or analogous function as the first embodiment bear the same reference numerals with 9000 added. Only the differences from the above embodiments will be described in detail.

In one embodiment, which is particularly advantageous in terms of both compactness during storage and transportation and ease of handling when brought from the supply condition to the use condition, the lower and side shield members 9011, 9012, 9013 are adapted to be folded so that each side shield member 9012, 9013 assumes a position substantially parallel to the lower shield member 9011 in a supply condition and projects into the plane of the lower shield member in the use condition. In the embodiment shown, a hinge connection 9118 is provided connecting the lower shield member 9011 to an associated side member 9012, 9013 at a hinge connection 9118a. In embodiments, where as shown, a piece 9111c, 9111a of the lower shield member 9011 is integral with a respective associated side shield member 9013, 9012 to form a corner unit, the hinge connection 9118a of the hinge connection 9118 is formed on said piece 9111c, 9111a.

A further detail of the ninth embodiment is that the lower protection member 9011 comprises at least one further piece 9111b connected to said at least one piece 9111c, 9111a of the lower protection member 9011 through said hinge connection 9118 such that the length of the lower protection member 9011 is adjustable to adopt a desired predefined length lb in the condition of use, more preferably by means of a coupling pin 9118b configured to be received in one of multiple receiving openings 9111bx provided in the other piece 9111b. This provides the possibility of adjusting the predefined length of the lower protection unit 9010 to the inner width of the window frame of the window in question.

The person skilled in the art realizes that the present inventive concept is in no way limited to the preferred variants described above. On the contrary, many modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims.

Furthermore, variations to the described variants can be understood and made by the person skilled in the art in the practice of the claimed invention, from a study of the drawings, the description and the appended claims.

List of reference numerals

1 roof window

2 frame

100 side frame member

101 inner portion

102 outer portion

103 lower surface

200 lower frame member

201 inner portion

202 outer portion

203 lower surface

300 upper frame member

3 sheet

400 side leaf member

500 lower leaf member

600 top leaf member

4 panel

5 hinge

52 frame hinge part

53 leaf hinge part

6 cover set

61 coatings

62 covers

63 upper box

7 operational member

8 locking mechanism

9 cup crane

10 protection unit

11 lower protection member

110 base portion

110r cavity

111 first longitudinal edge

112 second longitudinal edge

113 an end edge

114 other end edge

115 first portion

116 second portion

117 shoulder

12 side protection member

13 side protection member

130 base portion

131 first longitudinal edge

132 second longitudinal edge

133 an end edge

134 other end edge

2010 Protection Unit (2nd version)

3010 protection unit (3rd implementation)

3011 lower protection member

3110th track

3110b track

3111th piece

3111b part

3111c part

3111d part

3112 side protection member

3113 side protection member

3119a rod

3119b rod

4010 protection unit (4th implementation)

4011 lower protection member

4111th piece

4111b part

4111c part

4111d piece

4111e piece

4112 side protection member

4113 side protection member

5010 protection unit (5th implementation)

5011 lower protection member

5110th track

5110b track

5111th piece

5111b part

5111c part

5112 side protection member

5113 side protection member

5119a first rod

5119b second rod

6010 protection unit (6th implementation)

6011 lower protection member

6111th piece

6111b part

6111c part

6111f part

6111g piece

6112 side protection member

6113 side protection member

6119b rod

7010 protection unit (7th implementation)

7011 lower protection member

7111th piece

7112 side protection member

7113 side protection member

7119c piece connection accessory

7119d corner connection fitting

8010 protection unit (8th implementation)

8011 lower protection member

8111th piece

8111b part

8111c part

8113 side protection member

8118a corner protection element

8118b protection element

9010 protection unit (9th version)

9011 lower protection member

9111th piece

9111a1 track in piece

9111b part

9111c part

9112 side protection member

9113 side protection member

9118 hinge connection

9118a hinge connection

9118b coupling pin

wi interior width of window frame

lb lower guard member length

ls length of side protection member

Claims (15)

1. A window installation system, comprising: a roof window (1) including a window frame (2) having an upper frame member (300), a lower frame member (200) defining an interior width (wi) of the window frame (2), and first and second opposite side frame members (100), defining a central opening, each of the frame members (300, 200, 100) having an interior face including an interior portion (301, 201, 101) and an exterior portion (202, 102) facing the central opening, and a sash (3) having an upper sash member (600), a lower sash member (500) and first and second opposite side sash members (400), which enclose together a panel (4) and are connected to the window frame (2) in an assembled condition by means of a hinge set (5), said hinge set (5) comprising a set of parts (52) frame hinge portions located on the opposite side frame members (100) and a set of leaf hinge portions (53) located on the opposite side leaf members (400), and a kit of parts for protecting the window frame (2) in a window installation process by bringing the roof window (I) into the assembled condition, wherein the kit of parts comprises at least one protection member adapted to be placed on the lower frame member (200) to cover at least the inner portion (201) of the lower frame member (200), the kit of parts comprising a lower protection member (11) having a predefined length (lb) and two side protection members (12, 13) including a first (12) side protection member and a second side protection member (13), each having a predefined length (ls) and being configured to be connected to the lower protection member (11), thereby forming a coherent protection unit (10) in a use condition; and the protection unit (10) being adapted to at least partially cover the inner face of the lower frame member (200) and the inner face of the first and second side frame members (100). where the outer portion (202) of the inner side of the lower frame members (200) is offset with respect to the inner portion (201) to form a stepped portion, and wherein the lower protection member (11) comprises: a first portion (115) having a first thickness; and a second portion (116) having a second thickness; wherein the second thickness is different from the first thickness to provide a predefined profiling of the lower protection member (11), wherein the lower guard member (11) comprises a base portion (110) with a first longitudinal edge (111) and an opposite second longitudinal edge (112), each extending between one end edge (113) and another end edge (114) and defining the length (lb) of the lower guard member (11), and wherein the first portion (115) has a reduced thickness relative to the second portion (116) defining a shoulder (117) extending substantially parallel to and located substantially midway between the first and second longitudinal edges (111, 112) of the lower guard member (11), and characterized by that the first portion (115) is positioned adjacent to the first longitudinal edge (111) and configured to cover the inner portion (201) of the lower frame member (200) while the second portion (116) is positioned adjacent to the second longitudinal edge (112) and configured to cover the outer portion (202) of the lower frame member (200) of the frame (2) of the roof window (1), and because A cavity (110r) is formed in the base portion (110) adjacent the second longitudinal edge (112). 2. A window installation system according to claim 1, wherein the lower guard member (11) is configured to cover substantially the entirety of the inner portion (201) and the outer portion (202) of the lower frame member (200) facing the central opening, the predefined length (lb) of the lower guard member (I I ) being substantially equal to the inner width (wi) of the window and a width of the lower guard member (11) substantially corresponding to a depth of the lower frame member (200). 3. A window installation system according to claim 1, wherein each side protection member (12, 13) comprises a base portion (130) with a first longitudinal edge (131) and an opposite second longitudinal edge (132), each extending between one end edge (133) and another end edge (134), and wherein the other end edge (134) of the side protection member (12, 13) has a profiling corresponding to the profiling of the bottom protection member (11). 4. A window installation system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the protection unit is a single one-piece protection unit (2010), preferably as a moulded protection unit, or the bottom protection member (11) and the side protection members (12, 13) are configured to be assembled, thus forming the protection unit in the use condition. 5. A window installation system according to claim 4, wherein the bottom protection member (3011; 4011; 5011; 6011; 7011; 8011; 9011) is composed of multiple pieces (3111a, 3111b, 3111c, 3111d; 4111a, 4111b, 4111c, 4111d, 4111e; 5111a, 5111b, 5111c), preferably having an individually adapted profiling, and wherein at least one piece (4111a, 4111d; 6111c, 6111a; 8111a; 9111c, 9111a) of the member (4011; 6011; 8011; 9011) of lower protection is integral with an associated side protection member (4013, 4012; 6013, 6012; 8013; 9013, 9012) to form a corner unit, and wherein the lower protection member (4011) preferably comprises at least one other piece (4111b, 4111c, 4111e; 6111b; 8011b; 9111b) connected to or connectable to said at least one piece (4111a, 4111d; 6111c, 6111a; 8111a; 9111c, 9111a) of the lower protection member (4011; 6011; 8011; 9011) in the condition of use. 6. A window installation system according to claim 5, wherein the pieces (3111a, 3111b; 5111a, 5111b, 5111c; 6111c, 6111b, 6111f, 6111g) of the lower guard member (3011; 5011; 6011) are connected to each other by at least one rod (3119a, 3119b; 5119a, 5119b; 6119b) extending in the longitudinal direction of the lower guard member and received in an associated track (3110a, 3110b; 5110a, 5110b) in the lower guard member (3011; 5011; 6011), the pieces (5111a, 5111b, 5111g) of the lower guard member (3011; 5011; 6011) being connected to each other by at least one rod (3119a, 3119b; 5119a, 5119b; 6119b) extending in the longitudinal direction of the lower guard member and being ... 5111c) of the lower guard member (5011) are preferably slidably connected to each other by means of said at least one rod (5119a, 5119b) that is slidably received in the associated track (5110a, 5110b) in the lower guard member (5011) such that the length of the lower guard member (5011) is adjustable. 7. A window installation system according to claim 6, wherein at least one piece (6111g) is rotatable relative to another piece (6111f) about said rod (6119b) and is configured to adopt an inverted position on the lower guard member (6011) of the mounted guard unit (6010). 8. A window installation system according to claim 5, wherein the pieces (7111 a-7111x) are connected to each other by a piece connecting fitting (7119c) that allows a releasable snap connection between the pieces (7111 a-711x) of the bottom guard member (7011) of the guard unit (7010), preferably a corner connecting fitting (7119d) configured to connect the side guard member (7012) to the adjacent piece (7111a) of the bottom guard member (7011). 9. A window installation system according to claim 5, wherein the pieces (8111a, 8111b, 8111c) of the bottom protection member (8011) are connected to each other by a protection element (8118a, 8118b) in a slidable connection, at least one piece (8111a) of the bottom protection member (8011) is preferably integral with an associated side protection member (8013) to form a corner unit and at least one protection element is provided as a corner protection element (8118a). 10. A window installation system according to any one of claims 5 to 9, wherein at least one bottom or side guard member (9011,9012,9013) is adapted to be folded so that each side guard member (9012,9013) assumes a position substantially parallel to the bottom guard member (9011) in a supplied condition and projects into the plane of the bottom guard member in the use condition, a hinge connection (9118) is preferably provided for connecting the bottom guard member (9011) with an associated side member (9012,9013) at a hinge connection (9118a), and at least one piece (9111c,9111a) of the bottom guard member (9011) is preferably integral with an associated side guard member (9013,9012) to form a corner unit, and wherein the hinge connection (9118a) of the corner unit (9118a) is preferably provided for connecting the bottom guard member (9011) with an associated side guard member (9012,9013) at a hinge connection (9118a). The hinge connection (9118) is formed in said piece (9111c, 9111a), and the lower protection member (9011) preferably comprises at least one other piece (9111b) connected to said at least one piece (9111c, 9111a) of the lower protection member (9011) through said hinge connection (9118), preferably such that the length of the lower protection member (9011) is adjustable to adopt a desired predefined length (lb) in the condition of use, more preferably by means of a coupling pin (9118b) configured to be received in one of multiple receiving openings (9111 bx) provided in the other piece (9111 b). 11. A window installation system according to any preceding claim, wherein the kit of parts is adapted to be stored and reused one or more times, preferably in a storage container such as a box, a bag, a net, a strap device. 12. A window installation system according to any preceding claim, wherein the material of the bottom protection member (11) and the side protection members (12, 13) comprises expanded polypropylene (EPP), expanded polystyrene (EPS) and/or hard plastic materials and/or metal. 13. A window installation system according to claim 12, wherein the window is a roof window (1) installed in a pitched roof structure of a building. 14. A method for installing a roof window (1) in a pitched roof structure of a building with the window installation system according to any of claims 1 to 13, said method comprising the steps of: - providing a protection unit (10) consisting of a kit of parts including a lower protection member (11) and two side protection members (12, 13); - mount the window frame (2) on the pitched roof structure; - positioning the protection unit (10) to at least partially cover the inner face of the lower frame member (200) and the side frame members (100); - placing the sheet (3) on the protection unit (10), with at least the upper sheet member (600) in contact with the protection unit (10) such that the protection unit (10) supports the sheet (3); - coupling the leaf hinge parts (53) with the corresponding frame hinge parts (52) allowing the protection unit (10) to guide the leaf (3); - remove the protection unit (10); and - rotate the leaf (3) relative to the window frame (2). 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the outer portion (202) of the inner side of the lower frame members (200) is offset with respect to the inner portion (201) to form a stepped portion, and the lower guard member (11) comprises a first portion (115) having a first thickness and a second portion (116) having a second thickness different from the first thickness to provide a predefined profiling of the lower guard member (11), and the lower guard member (11) comprises a base portion (110) with a first longitudinal edge (111) and an opposite second longitudinal edge (112), each extending between one end edge (113) and another end edge (114) and defining the length (lb) of the lower guard member (11), wherein the first portion (115) has a reduced thickness relative to the second portion (116) defining a shoulder (117) extending substantially parallel to and located substantially midway between the first and second longitudinal edges (111, 112) of the lower protection member (11), and wherein the first portion (115) is positioned adjacent to the first longitudinal edge (111) and configured to cover the inner portion (201) of the lower frame member (200) while the second portion (116) is positioned adjacent to the second longitudinal edge (112) and configured to cover the outer portion (202) of the lower frame member (200) of the frame (2) of the roof window (1), and a cavity (110r) is formed in the base portion (110) adjacent to the second longitudinal edge (112), and wherein the step of placing the blade (3) in the protection unit (10) comprises placing a locking mechanism (8) on the upper blade member (600) in said cavity (110r).