Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
''Q~S;~51
W0003/7121
11/27/89
EAH/eah
0162d ~ .'
SKYLIGHT CONSTRUCTION
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION ~ -
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates in general to an improved
skylight construction and is concerned, more particularly, with
an improved skylight construction preferably formed of a
coextruded plastic material, thus adapting itself to simplified
manufacture and having improved temperature resistant and
weathering properties. Even more particularly, the present
invention pertains to an improved gasket construction for a
skylight, improvements in the skylight construction relating to
the cushioning of the glazing, an improved gasket construction - ;
for the skylight which is particular characterized by improved
weather and air tightness, and improved securing means fsr ~ ;
securing the skylight to a building.
2. Backqround Discussion
~;~ A skylight construction is shown, by way of example, in
U.S. Patent No. 4,449,340, granted May 22, 1984 and owned by ~ `
the present assignee herein. This skylight construction is of
plastic, including a frame that is comprised of a base frame ;
and an operating leaf frame. A retainer that may be
constructed of a lightweight metal material is typically
1 .
employed for holding the glazing to the curb frame. Gasketing
is typically provided between the glazing and the frame as well
as between the frame components.
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In connection with the gasketing that is typically
provided in skylight constructions, and with reference to
assignee's U.S. patent 4,449,340, it is noted that a tubular
type gasket is employed between curb frame sections for -~
providing an essentially single area sealing contact. In
single piece curb frame sections, such as exemplified in the
U.S. patent 4,455,799, it is typical to provide a cup-shaped
gasket for sealing with the dome or glazing. However, such
arrangements require the coextrusion of different configuration
gaskets depending upon whether it is single piece or two piece
curb frame application. Also, the gasketing generally provides .
only single area sealing contact. `
It has been found that, particularly on steep-pitched
roofs, and particularly under adverse rain conditions, that
leakage may occur through the gasketing,.particularly along the ;. ~
side of the skylight at the top side thereof on a slanted -
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roof. , .~
In U.S. Patent 4,702,049, it is noted that a securing clip ` .. .
is employed for securing the skylight curb frame to the
building. However, the securing clip, although engaging with
the skylight curb frame, does not positively interlock
therewith, and thus the securing clip may not be totally
effective in the proper securing, as well as the positioning, ~ ~.
of the skylight, particularly in proper orientation relative to
the building opening. .
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Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to
provide an improved securing clip for use with a skylight and,
in particular, with the skylight curb frame, and furthermore,
in particular, with a skylight curb frame made of a plastic
material such as PVC.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an
improved securing clip that is adapted to engage with a lower
channel in the curb frame and that is furthermore adapted to
provide positive interlocking between the securing clip and the ;
curb frame.
Another object of the present invention to provide an -
improvement in skylight constructions in which cushioning is
provided, essentially between the securing fastener associated
with the retainer and the glazing or edge of the dome
construction.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a ;:
new and improved skylight construction, particularly as it
pertains to the use of a glazing cushioning member that
provides a somewhat resilient surface for contact with the edge
of the glazing and disposed intermediate the glazing and
securing fastener or bolt. -
A further object of the present invention is to provide a
skylight construction as described in the foregoing objects,
and in which the glazing cushioning member is constructed to
receive the securing fastener therethrough for positioning
thereof.
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Still another object of the present invention is to
provide an improved skylight construction in which the glazing
cushioning member is constructed for snap-fit engagement with
the retainer. ;
Another object of the present invention is to provide an
improved skylight construction, as set forth in the preceding
objects, and wherein the glazing cushioning member furthermore
functions to control the amount of tightening of the retainer
against the glazing, so that the glazing is properly retained ;
and held in place but not over-tightened. ,
Another object of the present invention to provide an :~-
improved gasket construction that is adapted to alleviate
leakage problems that may occur through the usual gasketing
employed in a skylight.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an
improved skylight construction, and in particular a skylight
construction having an improved gasket arrangement that assists
in blockage and diversion of water, particularly at the top
side of the skylight, and particularly under conditions of
intense streams of water directed at the skylight, as might
occur in a torrential downpour. ~ .
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Still another object of the present invention is to
provide an improved skylight construction having a water ~ .
blocking and diverting gasket, also referred to herein as a
header gasket, preferably coupled between the skylight retainer
and curb frame, and preferably constructed for interlocking
respectively therebetween.
Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to
provide an improved skylight construction, and in particular a
skylight construction having an improved gasket system that is
universally adaptable and useable in either single piece or
multiple piece curb frame sections.
A further object of the present invention is to provide an
improved sealing gasket for a skylight which is configured so
as to provide proper sealing for both the application in which
it is adapted to seal between curb frame.sections as well as
the application in which it is adapted to seal between the curb
frame and covering or glazing.
Still another object of the present invention is to
provide an improved skylight construction having an improved -~
sealing gasket arrangement, and one which in particular
provides multiple area sealing contact.
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SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION ; -
To accomplish the foregoing and other objects of this
invention, there is provided a skylight construction adapted to
be fitted into an opening in a building such as either a
commercial building or a residential building. The skylight - ~ -
construction comprises a frame means that is of plastic .
construction, such as constructed of extruded PVC. The frame ;~
means or curb frame, extends about the opening and includes
means for the securing thereof about the opening. The skylight
construction also includes a translucent or transparent means
covering the opening and extending at its edges to overlie the
curb frame. The covering means may comprise one or more
glazing panels, or may also be in the form of one or more ~
plastic domes. A retainer extends about the periphery of the -
skylight for holding the glazing on the curb frame. ~ ;
In the particular embodiment described herein, the curb
frame is comprised of a base frame and an operating leaf frame
overlying the base frame. However, the principles of the
present invention may be employed in connection with either a -~
single part or two-part curb frame. The curb frame is ~ --
constructed of a rigid plastic profile having high temperature
resistant properties and having integral therewith and
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coextruded therewith a flexible sealing flange.
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In accordance with the present invention, associated with
the skylight construction is a glazing cushioning member, that
preferably snap-fits with the top leg of the retainer and has a
passage in alignment with the hole through which the securing
fastener for the retainer passes. The retainer has associated
therewith a plurality of fasteners usually in the form of
securing bolts and likewise also preferably has associated
therewith a plurality of glazing cushioning members disposed
about the periphery of the glazing. The glazing cushioning
member includes a body adapted to be disposed between the top
i leg of the retainer and the top of the curb frame, and a
somewhat resilient cushioning piece held by the body and
disposed in facing relationship to the edge of the glazing. ;~
The height of the body of the glazing cushioning member is
constructed so that when the securing bolt is tightened down, ~;
the body controls the spacing between the retainer and the curb ;
frame so as to provide the proper pressure by the retainer on
the glazing. ;
In accordance with the present invention, a header gasket
: is provided and may be disposed only at the top side of the
skylight as installed on a slanted roof. The header gasket has
a foldable center section and interlocking ends adapted to
interlock, respectively, with the curb frame and retainer. The ~ -.
foldable section of the gasket enables the gasket to maintain
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its position in an operable skylight construction even when the
skylight is opened and closed. The header gasket seals and
assists in diverting water away from the skylight and prevents
torrents of water from entering inside of the retainer and
causing internal leakage at or about the skylight curb frame. ~
In accordance with the present invention, an improved :. . -
-,
sealing gasket is provided, and in particular a sealing gasket -
that is integral with and coextruded with the curb frame. The
improved gasket construction provides for multiple area sealing~:
contact. In one embodiment in accordance with the invention
the gasket has a centrally disposed contact area as well as a ~ :
pair of side disposed contact areas and is of generally tubular -
cross section. In one embodiment of the invention the gasket
is adapted for providing a sealing between a base curb frame :
.:
section and a overlying operative curb frame section. In
accordance with another embodiment of the invention, the same
gasket construction is useable for providing a sealing between
the curb frame and the glazing.
In accordance with the present invention, an improved
securing clip is provided that is adapted to provide a positive ~ :
interlocking between the curb frame and the securing clip for
proper positioning and securing of the skylight curb frame
about the building opening. In this regard, the curb frame has ~
a lower channel that receives the securing clip and in the ~:-
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lower channel there is defined in the curb frame a hook piece
that engages with the channel in the securing clip so that once
the securing clip is fully engaged in the curb frame channel
then the securing clip is positively interlocked with the curb
frame, thereby alleviating any positioning problems, and
thereby ensuring that there will not be any slippage between
the securing clip and the curb frame.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Numerous other objects, features and advantages of the
invention will now become apparent upon a reading of the
following detailed description taken in conjunction with the .:~
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accompanying drawings, in which~
- ~ FIG. 1 is a perspective view, partially cut away, and
illustrating a skylight construction in accordance with the
present invention;
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 2-2 of
; FIG. 1 and showing further cross-sectional details of the ~ ~ `
:~ skylight construction;
~ . FIG. 3 is a fragmentary plan view of the skylight
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construction at a securing bolt and partially cut away to show
further details of the glazing cushioning member; .
FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the components of the ~:~
glazing cushioning member; and
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FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the manner in :;~
which the glazing cushioning member is snap-fitted into the
retainer.
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view similar to the
cross-sectional view of FIG. 2 but illustrating the skylight in :~
an opened position;
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of ~ :
FIG. 2;
FIG. 8 separately illustrates the detailed construction of
the preferred form of header gasket in accordance with the :
present invention; and
FIG. 9 illustrates in cross-sectional detail an alternate ~ ~
construction for the header gasket and alternate construction ; ~:
of the retainer for receiving the header gasket. .:
FIG. ~0 is a cross-sectional view similar to that of FIG. :~
2 but for an alternate embodiment of the invention employing a
single piece curb frame, basically comprised of a base curb ~
frame, but having the same sealing gasket as in the earlier :~:
embodiment described, but for sealing between the curb frame
and the glazing;
FIG. 11 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the improved
gasket of the present invention;
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FIG. 12 is a fragmentary top plan view of a corner of the
.
~: curb frame illustrating the joining of the curb frame and
~: associated sealing gasket at the mitre; and
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FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of an alternate
embodiment of a gasket in accordance with the present invention.
FIG. 14 is a fragmentary perspective view illustrating the
securing clip and a section of the curb frame; and
FIG. 15 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view of the curb
frame at a securing clip and illustrating the position of the
securing clip as it is partially inserted into the
accommodating curb frame channel.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Reference is now made to a skylight construction as
illustrated in the cut-away perspective view of FIG. 1 and the
cross-sectional view of FIG. 2. In the embodiment illustrated ~ ~`
herein in FIGS. 1 and 2, the skylight is of a flat
construction, having flat glazing panels. However, in :: ~
alternate constructions, a domed type of skylight may also be ~;`
employed. The skylight is adapted to span an opening which is
generally of square or rectangular shape and the opening may be
defined by upright walls or by headers within the roof
construction.
The skylight described herein is characterized by improved
energy performance; thermal air and weather tightness; : ;
simplicity of installation; good weathering properties; and
enhanced durability.
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The skylight construction shown herein includes a pair of
glazing panels 16 and 18, a base frame 14, an operating leaf
frame 20, and a retainer 22. The two frames 14 and 20 are
constructed of a rigid PVC material and these frames are
individually coextruded. The retainer 22 is preferably
constructed of a lightweight metal material such as aluminum.
Each of the frames 14 and 20 is constructed by a
coextrusion process in which a flexible gasket such as gasket
44 is coextruded with a rigid frame section. At the corner
mitres, both the rigid and the flexible part of the frames are
joined by a technique such as a heat platen sealing technique.
This technique commonly joins the rigid frame sections at the
corner mitres while at the same time joining the gaskets for
providing a continuous seal about the entire skylight curb
frame construction.
The base frame 14 may also be referred to as a fixed leaf,
while the support frame 20 may also be referred to as the
overlying operating leaf. The base frame 14 has internal
compartments 24 and 26 and has associated therewith a
peripheral sealing flange 28. As indicated, for example, in
FIG. 2, the flange 28 interlocks with the base frame 14 and ~ :~
receives a piece of roofing such as the roofing shingle 10
illustrated in FIG. 2. Also refer to FIG. 1 for a clear ;~
showing of the manner in which the shingles 10 cooperatively
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interengage with the sealing flange 28. For further details on
the construction and associated function of the sealing flange
28, refer to the assignee's U.S. Patent No. 4,702,049, granted
October 27, 1987.
To secure the skylight, and in particular the base frame
14 thereof, in place on the roof, there are provided a
plurality of securing clips 11, each having one end lla for
securing the clip to the roof construction and another end llb
received by the base frame 14 at the recess 12, as illustrated ;~
in FIG. 2. A series of these securing clips 11 may be
disposed about all sides of the base frame 14. As illustrated
in FIG. 2, the securing clip 11 at its end lla is substantially
flat and preferably has two holes for receiving roofing nails. `
The opposite end llb of the securing clip 11 has a stepped
construction to enable the securing clip.to interlock in the
recess 12 in the base frame 14. ~
The skylight glazing plates 16 and 18 are supported over ~:
the support frame 20 by means of the retainer 22. The plates -~
16 and 18 are supported by a glazing frame 19. On the outer
periphery of the frame 19 between the plates 16 and 18 there is
a gasket 17. The gasket 17 may be of a premolded butyl
material. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the frame 19 may be
comprised of separate metal spacers with an outer seal
comprising a chemically curable two-part polysulfide.
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The lower glazing plate 18 rests upon a cup-shaped sealing
gasket 44 which is coextruded with the support frame 20. In
FIG. 2, the gasket 44 is shown in its compressed position. The
operating leaf or support frame 20 also includes means defining
a channel 54 for receiving a securing bolt 56. The channel 54
is preferably threaded to receive the bolt 56. There are ~ ~ .
actually a plurality of these securing bolts or screws that are
employed for securing the retainer 22 over the glazing plates
16 and 18. Two of the securing bolts 56 are shown in the
perspective view of FIG. 1, each having associated therewith a
cushion member 25. The securing bolt 56 actually passes
through the glazing securing member 25, forming a cushioning
for the edges of the glazing plates to prevent damage thereto,
as well as to facilitate positioning thereof.
The retainer 22 has a top leg 34 and a side leg 36. The
retainer 22 is generally of L-shaped construction. At the
bottom end of leg 36 there is provided a pair of walls defining
an interlocking channel 37 for receiving one end 38 of the
header gasket 40. The other end 39 of the header gasket 40 is
received within an interlocking channel 41 formed in the base
frame 14. In FIG. 2 the header gasket 40 is shown in the -
closed position of the skylight with the header gasket thus in
its more elongated form.
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The top leg 34 of the retainer 22 is also adapted to
receive a gasket, illustrated in FIG. 2 as the relatively flat : :~
gasket 42 that is interlocked with the very free end of the leg
34. The gasket 42 may be constructed of a premolded butyl ;~
material and is adapted to engage with and securely hold the
top of the glazing plates, contacting the plate 16 as
illustrated in FIG. 2. The top leg 34 also has a depending
wall 35 for engagement by the glazing cushion member 25. The
leg 34 also includes a slot 43 for receiving a leg of the glass
cushion member 25.
As indicated previously, the particular skylight
construction depicted herein is in the form of a two-part curb
frame with a base frame added overlying the operating frame.
For the purpose of opening the operating frame, there are
provided hinges 50, one on either side of the skylight. The
cut-away perspective view of FIG. 1 shows the hinge 50 having
associated therewith a pivot pin 51 and rivets 52. FIG. 2 also
shows, in dotted outline, the hinge 50 and the placement of the
pop rivets at 52. FIG. 2 also shows, in dotted outline, the - .
pivot pin 51. The pin 51 is adapted to be retained in the ~ :~
channel 55 of the base frame 14. The overlying leaf frame 20 ~:~
has a peripherally disposed channel 57 and along the sides
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. thereof, the hinge 50 is pop riveted to the frame 20 while the ;~
hinge 50 is maintained in this channel 57.
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Regarding the base frame 14, as indicated previously, it
includes compartments 24 and 26, recess 12 for receiving the
securing clip 11, and channels for receiving the pivot pin 51
and the header gasket 40. The base frame 14 also is provided
with a condensation gutter 60 and furthermore supports at its
top wall 62 the gasket 64. The gasket 64 is constructed to
provide multiple sealing points. The gasket 64 is generally of
cylindrical construction but is provided with separately
disposed ears such as the ears 65 and 66 illustrated in FIG.
2. FIG. 2 clearly illustrates the multiple sealing points of
the gasket 64. It is also noted that multiple sealing points :
are provided not only at the wall 62 but also at the wall 67 of .
the overlying leaf frame 20. In FIG. 2 the gasket 64 is shown
in partially compressed position and providing an effective
watertight seal between the separate curb frame sections.
Reference has been made hereinbefore to the bolt 56 as it
relates to securing the retainer to the curb frame. As noted
in FIG. 2, the bolt 56 preferably passes not only through the
threaded channel 54 in wall 68 of the frame 20, but also~ -~
through the wall 69. In other words, the securing bolt 56
actually penetrates two walls of the frame 20. This adds
further stability to the overall skylight construction, .
particularly as it relates to the retaining of the glazings. ;
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FIG. 2 shows a part of the building construction,
including building members 70, which may be of wood
construction such as typical 2 x 4s or 2 x 6s. FIG. 2 shows
the roofing nails 71 used through the securing clip 11 and
driven into the members 70. There is also illustrated in FIG.
2 a gypsum board 72 associated with the base frame 14. This is :
a typical building construction that can be used and that is
associated with the skylight.
Reference is now made to FIGS. 3-5 for further details of
the glazing cushioning member 25. In this regard, reference is
also made to the cross-sectional view of FIG. ~ that shows the
glazing cushioning member 2S as snap-fitted into place in the
retainer 22. FIG. 2 clearly illustrates the positioning of the ~.
member 25 in close proximity to the glazing. ~ :
The glazing cushioning member 2S is comprised of a rigid
plastic body 7S and a somewhat resilient cushioning piece 76.
The body 75 has front and rear walls 77 and 78, side walls 79 ~ :~
and 80, and leg 81. The leg 81 is disposed at right angles to
the wall 77. These various walls define a hollow passage 82
defined in part by the tapered wall 83. The tapered wall 83 ~ `
assists in guidance of the securing bolt S6 into and through ;;.. ~:
the passage 82. In this regard, the securing bolt S6 is shown
in place, having passed through the passage 82 in the body 75. -~.
The cushioning piece 76 is comprised of a cushioning wall 84 :::
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and turned ends defining opposed channels 85. The cushioning -~
piece 76 is adapted to slide onto the wall 77 with the opposite :~ ;
sides of the wall 77 engaging in the opposed channels 85. In
this regard, FIG. 5 shows the cushioning piece 76 in place on
the body 75.
FIG. 5 illustrates the action of the glazing cushioning
member 25 snap-fitted by movement in the direction of the arrow
86. The wall 78 engages with the wall 35, which forms part of
the retainer 22. Initially, the leg 81 of the body 75 is
disposed in the slot 43 in the retainer. FIG. 5 illustrates
the leg in place and the body now being snapped upwardly to
engage with the retainer. The passage 82 is adapted to be
disposed in alignment with a bolt hole 87 provided in the
retainer top leg 34, for receipt of a securing bolt. Again,
FIG. 2 clearly illustrates the placement of the securing bolt :
56 as it relates to the body 75 and the passage 82 thereof. ;
FIG. 2 also illustrates one other function of the member
25. The height of the member 25 is made so that when the
securing bolt 56 is tightened down the proper amount of
pressure is applied by the retainer against the glazing. This ~:
prevents overtightening of the securing bolt and makes the
installation of the glazing on the curb frame more foolproof.
The body 75 of the glazing cushioning member 25 is
preferably constructed of a quite rigid PVC material. The -~
cushioning piece 76, on the other hand, is made of a material
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that is at least partially resilient and that will provide some
cushioning should the glazing panel shift and contact the piece
76. Without this cushioning effect, the glazing could easily :~
contact the securing bolt and could cause damage to the
glazing. The cushioning piece 76 may be secured to the body by
a close tolerance fit or some small amount of adhesive may be
applied therebetween.
In the preferred embodiment disclosed herein, it is noted
that the securing fastener passes through the glazing
cushioning member 25. In an alternate embodiment the securing
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fastener may be disposed adjacent to the glazing cushioning
member in which case the fastener would not pass then through
the opening therein. In this instance, the fastener which may -~ .
be a securing bolt can be disposed say an inch or so away from
the glazing cushioning member and is adapted to extend through
the top wall of the retainer and into the curb frame. .
In summary, the glazing cushioning member of the present :
invention provides a cushioning for the glazing. It also ~ ~.
provides a stable support between the retainer and the curb -
frame and prevents twisting and turning of the retainer as it
is being secured in place. The glazing cushioning member also ~ :
provides, in the preferred embodiment, a guide for the securing
fastener to provide positive and precise locating thereof. The
glazing cushioning member also assists in providing proper ~;.
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weather tightness. The glazing cushioning member is
constructed so as to control the proper tightening of the
securing fastener so as to make the installation of the glazing
on the curb frame more foolproof.
Reference is now made to FIGS. 6-9 herein for further
details of the header gasket ~onstruction as in accordance with
the present invention. FIG.~3 is a cross-sectional view
substantially the same as the cross-sectional view of FIG. 2
but illustrating the overlying operating leaf 20 pivoted to at
least a partially open position. This view has been shown to
illustrate the manner in which the header gasket 40 at its
folded section can compress and essentially fold so as to
readily accommodate movement between the base frame 14 and the
overlying frame 20. Thus, the header gasket described herein
is one that is constructed so that it is expandable in length.
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of
FIG. 2. FIG. 7 illustrates the header gasket 40 as extending
from mitre corner to mitre corner at mitres M. The gasket 60
is shown with squared ends, and that is the preferred form of
construction.
FIGS. 8 and 9 are enlarged views of the header gasket
construction. FIG. 8 shows the same gasket as previously
depicted in FIG. 3. FIG. 9 shows an alternate construction for
the gasket. In FIG. 8, the end 38 as well as the end 39 has an
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arrow member A. The arrow A at end 38 is adapted to be
accommodated in the interlocking recess 37. It is noted that
the arrow A is directed at a 45 angle. The arrow ~ is adapted
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for being accommodated in the interlocking recess 41 of the `~
base frame 14. Between the ends 38 and 39 there is a folding
section that includes two bends B. ~,
The version of FIG. 9, instead of including two bends, -
includes only a single bend Bl. The gasket 40A in FIG. 9 has,
in addition to its center folding section, also ends 38A and :
39A. Each of these ends has an arrow Al. The retainer 36 in
this version has a recess 37A for receiving the arrow Al.
Similarly, the base frame 14 has a recess 41 for receiving the ~-
arrow Al in an interlocking position. It is noted in the ; ~ :
version of FIG. 9 that both of the arrows Al are directed in
the same direction, while in the version of FIG. 8 the arrows A
are disposed at 45 to each other.
In all of the embodiments of the header gasket described
herein, it is noted that the gasket itself is made of a -
relatively flexible PVC material. The retaining recesses for ~;
the ends of the gasket are constructed in a rigid form. The
interlocking arrows A and Al are adapted to easily deflect when
forced into their accommodating recesses. FIG. 8 shows the
,:
gasket separate from the recesses. FIG. 9 shows the gasket
with the arrows being forced into the recesses and interlocked
therewith.
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Reference is now made to FIGS. 6 and 10~12 herein for
further details of the improved gasket construction as in
accordance with the present invention. FIG. 6 is a
cross-sectional view substantially the same as the
cross-sectional view of FIG. 2, but illustrating the overlying
operating leaf 20 pivoted to at least a partially open
position. This view has been shown to illustrate the manner in
which the gasket 64 reverts to its uncompressed position. In
FIG. 2 the gasket 64 has been shown in its partially compressed
position while in FIG. 9, once the operating leaf 20 opens, the
gasket 64 reverts to its uncompressed position. Described
hereinafter in FIG. 10 is the fully compressed position of the
gasket 64.
FIG. 11 is an enlarged fragmentary view showing enlarged
details of the multiple area sealing gasket 64. The gasket 64
is generally of cylindrical or tubular construction but is
provided with separately disposed ears 65 and 66. Each of
these ears, as illustrated in FIG. 5 have tips 65A and 65B, as
well as 66A and 66B. The tips 65A and 66A, in the two-piece
curb frame construction, provide contact with the wall 67. The -~
tips 65B and 66B provide contact with the wall 62 associated
with the lower curb frame or base curb frame section.
As also noted in FIG. 11, the gasket 64 is coextruded and
integral with the base curb frame section 14. FIG. 5
illustrates the attachment at 80. On the top side of the
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gasket, as viewed in FIG. 11, in addition to the tips 65A and . -~--
66A of the respective ears 65 and 66, there is also provided a : -
relatively small sealing lip 82. The sealing lip 82 is
disposed substantially midway between the ears 65 and 66. . ;
Now, in the embodiment of the invention illustrated in
FIG. 2, it is noted that the gasket 64 is in an essentially ; ~;
partially compressed position. When the gasket is adapted for
use between curb frame sections, it is preferred that it be ~;
partially compressed and this provides proper gasket sealing.
In the position of FIG. 2 it is noted that the ears 65 and 66
have been compressed to the point where the tips thereof
contact the respective walls 62 and 67. In this connection the
arcuate nature of each of the ears is helpful in providing ;~
proper sealing contact with the walls 62 and 67. FIG. 2 also
illustrates the sealing lip 82 contacting the wall 67. FIG. 2
clearly illustrates the multiple sealing points or areas
provided by this gasket construction.
¦ As indicated previously, one of the advantages of the
sealing gasket of the present invention is its universatility
of use. FIG. 10 illustrates the further use of the gasket when
it is associated with a base curb frame 14 for providing direct
sealing between the curb frame and the glazing. In FIG. 10 the
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skylight construction is shown herein as including a pair of
glazing panels 16 and 18, a base frame 14, an operating leaf
frame 20, and a retainer 22. The base frame 14 is constructed
of a rigid PVC material and the retainer 22 is preferably
constructed of a lightweight metal material such as aluminum.
The base frame 14 is constructed by a coextrusion process
in which the gasket 64 is coextruded with the rigid frame
section. At the corner mitres, as illustrated in FIG. 12
herein, both the rigid and the flexible part of the frame is
joined by techniques such as a heat platen sealing technique. ~ ~
This technique commonly joins the rigid frame sections at the .-
corner mitres while at the same time joining the gaskets for
providing a continuous seal about the entire curb frame
construction. FIG. 12 illustrates the base frame 14 with the
sealing gasket 64 as joined at the curb frame mitre M.
The base frame 14 in FIG. 10 has internal compartments 24
and 26 and has associated therewith a peripheral sealing flange
28~ The sealing flange 28 interlocks with the base frame 14 ~ :
and receives a piece of roofing such as the roofing shingle
10. For further details on the construction and associated
function of the sealing flange 28, refer to the assignee's U.S.
patent number 4,702,049 granted October 27, 1987. .
As in the embodiment of FIG. 2, in FIG. 10, to secure the
skylight, and in particular the base frame 14, thereof, in
place on-the roof, there are provided a plurality of securing
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clips 11, each having one end lla for securing the clip to the
roof construction and another end llb received by the base
frame 14 at the recess 12. A series of these securing clips 11 ;~
may be disposed about all sides of the base frame 14. The
securing clip 11 at its end lla is substantially flat and
preferably has two holes for receiving roofing nails. The
opposite end llb of the securing clip has a stepped ~ ~
construction to enable the securing clip to interlock in the ~ -
recess 12 in the base frame 14. ~
The skylight glazing plates 16 and 18 are supported over --
the support frame 20 by means of the retainer 22. The plates
16 and 18 are supported by a glazing frame 19. On the outer
periphery of the frame 19 between the plates 16 and 18 there is
. . .
a gasket 17. The gasket 17 may be of a premolded butyl
material. As illustrated in FIG. 10, the frame 19 may be
comprised of separate metal spacers with an outer seal
comprising a chemically curable two-part polysulfide.
The lower glazing plate 18 rests upon the gasket 64 of the
present invention. Now, in FIG. 10 it is noted that the gasket
64 is shown in its fully compressed position. In this regard,
the ears 65 and 66 are fully deflected with the associated tips
thereof contacting and spreading as illustrated in FIG. 10.
Parts of even the cylindrical shaped part of the sealing gasket
are urged into contact with the plate 18. The sealing lip 82, -
of course, also makes direct contact with the plate 18.
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The base frame 14 also has means defining a channel 55 for
receiving a securing bolt 56. The channel 55 is preferably .
threaded to receive the bolt 56. There are actually a .
plurality of these securing bolts or screws that are employed
for securing the retainer over the glazing plates. The ~ ~:
securing bolt 56 in FIG. 10 has associated therewith a cushion :
member 25. The securing bolt 56 actually passes through the
glazing cushioning member 25, forming a cushioning for the
edges of the glazing plates to prevent da~age thereto, as well
as to facilitate positioning thereof.
In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIG. 11, ;.
as indicated previously, there is basically three point contact . - ~.~
to the glazing. This is provided by the sealing lip 82 and the ~ -
oppositely disposed ear tips 65a and 66a. This particular
construction with the use of a substantially open and somewhat .~
oval shaped overall gasket configuration provides improved ~ :
weather and air tightness. There are three surfaces of
contact. Furthermore, there is a reactionary mechanical action
that occurs when the gasket is compressed so as to enhance
tightness of the gasket between the elements that are being -~
compressed against the gasket. In this regard, once the tips
65b and 66b are compressed against the wall 62, further
compression at 82 as indicated by the arrow A causes a hinging
action at the base of the ears 65 and 66. This causes movement
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of the tips 65a and 66a in the direction of arrows B as noted . -
in FIG. 11. This mechanical type action assists in providing
enhanced tightness regarding the sealing provided by the
gasket. In essence, the contact at the center of the gasket at .
its top causes a reactionary force at the ears 65 and 66. ~:
Reference is also now made herein to FIG. 13 which is a
fragmentary enlarged view of a portion of the curb frame -
illustrating the gasket of the present invention. In FIG. 13 ~ -
like reference characters are used to identify like parts as
previously described in connection with FIG. 11. FIG. 13
differs from FIG. 11 primarily with respect to the fact that
the ears 65 and 66 do not have any lower respective tips 65b
, .
and 66b. Furthermore, the sealing lip 82 is smoothed over in ~ ~.
the embodiment of FIG. 13. However, in FIG. 13 it is noted
that there is still essentially three point contact regarding
this gasket, particularly at the top side of the gasket. ~;
Thus, in accordance with the present invention, there has
now been described various embodiments thereof, further
illustrating the universal use of the gasket construction. The
multi sealing point gasket construction enables one to now use
a single form of base frame, wherein the gasket can be employed
either for sealing with an overlying frame or with a glazing
plate or dome. In this connection, as previously discussed, in
the application of FIG. 2 the gasket of the invention is
preferably in a partially compressed position while in the
embodiment of FIG. 10 is in a substantially fully compressed
position.
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Reference is now made to FIGS. 14 and 15 herein for
further details of the securing clip as constructed in ; .
accordance with the present invention. In this regard, FIG. 14
is a fragmentary perspective and exploded view illustrating a ;~
section of the curb frame and the securing clip. FIG. 15 is a
fragmentary cross-sectional view illustrating the securing clip
partially inserted into the channel or recess in the curb
frame, which is adapted to receive the securing clip. It is
noted in the view of FIG. 15 that the flexible sealing flange
has been lifted so as to enable insertion of the securing clip
11. FIG. 15 has been shown to illustrate the manner in which
the securing clip is inserted by tilting and then once it is in
position the securing clip engages with a hook member in the
recess.
As indicated previously, a plurality of securing clips 11,
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each having one end llA for securing the clip to the roof
construction, and another end llB received by the base frame 14 ~ :
at the recess 12, are disposed at different predetermined
positions about the skylight. In this regard, refer to FIGS. 1
and 2, which show the positioning of the securing clip. As
illustrated in FIG. 2, the securing clip at its end llA is
substant,ially flat and preferably has two holes for receiving
roofing nails. In this regard, note the roofing nails 71 in : ~;
FIG. 2. The opposite end llB of the securing clip 11 has a
stepped construction to enable the clip to interlock in the
recess 12 and the base frame 14.
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FIGS. 14 and 15 show further details of the securing clip,
particularly at the end llB. As indicated previously, ~here is
a stepped construction defining a channel 82 and, furthermore,
having an end wall 84 that is adapted to engage at the very
bottom end of the recess 12. In this regard, FIG. 2 shows the
clip fully in position and nailed down while FIG. 15 shows the .
securing clip partially inserted with the end wall 84 not yet
fully into position and with the securing clip not yet
interlocked with the recess in the curb frame.
For the purpose of interlocking of the securing clip, the
recess 12 is provided with a hook segment 80 in which the
entrance to the recess 12 is essentially ramped to define this ;. .
hook segment. In FIG. 15, the securing clip is shown partially
inserted with the channel 82 not yet engaged with the hook
segment 80. As the securing clip is moved fully into the
recess 12, then the securing clip may be moved downwardly at
its end llA so that the channel 82 engages at one side thereof
with the hook member 80 as clearly illustrated in, for example,
FIG. 2. As long as the end llA of the securing clip 11 is not
tilted upwardly, the securing clip at end llB is maintained
interlocked with the recess 12. Once the roofing nails 71 are ` :
secured,through the end llA of the securing clip 11 then there
is a complete positive interlocking between the securing clip
and the curb frame. -
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In connection with the installation of ~he securing clips,
it is noted in FIG. 15 that the flexible flange 28 may be
lifted so as to provide sufficient room for insertion of the
securing clips. The securing clip is inserted at a slightly
tilted angle, such as illustrated in FIG. 15, but then is
rotated once it is fully engaged and fully in the recess 12, to
a substantially horizontal position, such as the position
illustrated in FIG. 2. .
Having now described a limited number of embodiments of
the present invention, it should now become apparent to those
skilled in the art that numerous other embodiments and :~
modifications are contemplated as falling within the scope of
the present invention, as defined by the appended claims. In ;;
the embodiments described herein, such as in FIG. 2 of the
drawings, it is noted that the gasket 64.is coextruded with the
base of the curb frame. In an alternate embodiment of the
invention, this gasket could also be coextruded and integral ~ ~ ;
with the overlying support frame of the curb frame.
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