AU2004202069A1 - Improvements relating to integrated multi-fold panel assemblies - Google Patents

Description

17-MAY-2004 11:26 A J PARK 64 9 3566990 P.03 Regulation 3.2

AUSTRALIA

PATENTS ACT, 1990 COMPLETE SPECIFICATION FOR A STANDARD PATENT

ORIGINAL

Name of Applicant: FLETCHER BUILDING HOLDINGS LIMITED Actual Inventors: DAVID FRANK BURGORAAF, JOHN SAMUEL, JAMISON, ASHLEY CLIVE JONES Address for service A J PARK, Level 11, 60 Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra ACT in Australia: 2601, Australia Invention Title: IMPROVEMENTS RELATING TO INTEGRATED MULTI- FOLD PANEL ASSEMBLIES The following statement is a full description of this invention, including the best method ofperforming it known to us.

10007944,1 COMS ID No: SMBI-00752333 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:54 Date 2004-05-17 1?-MAY-2004 11:26 R J PPRK 1?-IPY200 1126 J ARK64 9 3566996 P.04 FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to integrated multi-fold window and/or door assemblies.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION s The present invention is directed to a multi-fold arrangement adapted to lend itself to a more expansive opening configuration compared to alternative arrangements. Typical bifold assemblies as disclosed in our New Zealand Patent Specification No. 336696, wre capable of being folded or opened but not beyond the edge of the window or door opening. In such instances the folded windows or door panels create an obstruction of sorts, be it visual or otherwise. Such prior art arrangements do not allow the entire wall opening to be fully utilised as they are constmained by hinges built, into overhead tracking arrangements.

When using a door consisting of multiple panels to close or partially close a door way consideration needs to be given to the not in consequential weight of such assemblies. The panels comprising the door are often glazed and thus in conjunction wit the panel frame can weigh a significant amount. This weight poses more problems as the door is folded out of cover of the opening. Support of one or more of the panels by suspending fromn above or supporting ftom below can alleviate this problem. Such support can also guide the door in its opening and closing. However to make the most of the space available the door needs also to fold flat when opened.

Such support can often prevent this.

The present invention recognises an advantage for multi-fold panel assemblies arising from the prospect of clearing the opening of the panels when in the opened condition. Our New Zealand Patent Specification No, 505958 sought to achieve this outcome by releasing the distal pivot axis from the tracks or track in the plane of the opening. As used therein and herein the term "plane of the opening" preferably includes a straight plane but may include a curved or other shaped opening and consequently the "plane of the opening" should be interpreted as including any form of opening capable of being tracked substantially to the shape of the opening.

COMS ID No: SMBI-0752333 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:54 Date 2004-05-17 17-MRY-2004 11:26 A J PARK 17-RY-004li!6 AJ PRK64 9 3566990 -2- The aforementioned procedure of our New Zealand Patent Specification No.

505958 is effective for the purpose but does require sturdy mounts as, in the open folded condition against the building structure away from the opening, loadings of the panel pairs is carried through the sole remaining pivot axis.

The present invention is therefore directed to an arrangement, for at least a bifold panel (glazed or otherwise) structure, and whether for door or window purposes or a hybrid of both, whether top or bottom mounted (supported), which alone or in conjunction with a mirrored arrangement can provide an alternative to existing multifold panel systems.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide assemblies, methods and procedures that are capable of achieving a similar outcome as far as allowing the panels to be cleared from the opening of the structure when open or to at least provide the public wit a useful choice.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION In a first aspect the present invention consists in a closure assembly of an opening of or in a building structure, said closure assembly having at least two mutually pivoted panels (glazed or otherwise) mounted with the mutual pivot axis at least substantially vertical and so as to be movable between the conditions: a closed condition whereby said at least two panels at least substantially in mutual alignment provide at least a partial closure of said opening in or substantially parallel to the plane of the opening, and (ii) an opened condition whereby said at least two panels, mutually disaligned by having pivoted mutually towards each other, are substantially clear of the opening and where one of each, or all of at least two panels, lie at an acute angle or parallel with respect to the plane of the opening, wherein one of said panels (the "proximate panel") is pivoted by an at least substantially vertical pivot axis (movable or otherwise) substantially in the plane of the opening at and/or adjacent one periphery thereof ("'the proximal periphery"), COMS ID No: SMBI-00752333 Reeived by IP Australia: Time (1-tm) 14:54 Date 2004-05-17 17-MAY-2004 11*26 R J PARK 17-MY-24 jj 26R S64 9 35669901 P.061 -3and wherein the distal region (distal from said proximate panel) of the other panel (the "distal panel") is supported by at least one supporting runner, and wherein the supporting runner running on a support track at least in part skewed, angled or angling, cranked or curved (hereafter "skewed") with respect to the plane of said opening which has the affect of spacing the supporting runner out of the plane of said opening atlor adjacent said proximal periphery, said support track supported from the building structure.

Preferably closure assembly includes a second set of distal and proximal panels, said second set dependent from the distal region of said first mentioned distal panel by pivotal engagement therewith, wherein of said second set, one of said panels (the "proximate panel"') is pivoted by an at least substantially vertical pivot axis tracked by said first mentioned support track, and the distal region of the other panel (the "distal panel") is supported by at least one supporting runner, wherein said as least Oo support runner of said second set runs on a support track at least in part skewed, angled or angling, cranked or curved (hereafter "Cskewed") with respect to the plane of' said opening which has the affect of spacing the supporting runner out of the plane of said opening at/or adjacent said proximal periphery and outwardly from said first mentioned runner of said firs5t mentioned distal panel, said second mentioned support track is supported from the building structure.

Preferably said indirect support is via one or more brackets that at least extend between the plane of the opening and said skewed support track.

Preferably said second mentioned support track is at least in part a separate support track to said first mentioned Support track at least at the proximal periphery of said of said opening.

COMS ID No: SMBI-00752333 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:54 Date 2004-05-17 17-MAY-2004 11:27PJPRI8493890 .7 A i PARK 64 9 3See990 P.O? -4- Preferably said second mentioned support track is a discrete support track to said first mentioned support track.

Preferably said first mentioncd and second mentioned support tracks are not parallel to each other.

Preferably said support track provides a special distribution function to the support runners in a manner to position respective support runners sequentially outwardly from said opening plane.

Preferably said or each supporting runner(s) includes a wheeled bogie engaged with the support track, Preferably said or each support runner(s) includes a pivot to allow said wheeled bogie to pivot relative to said distal panel about a vertical axis.

Preferably said vertical axis of said pivot of said wheeled bogie(s) is located at or near the mid thickness of said distal panel.

Preferably the or each support track is substantially rectilinear in form and is at an acute angle with respect to the plane of the opening, Alternatively the or each support track is at least in part rectilinear in form and is at an acute angle with respect to the plane of the opening.

Preferably the support track is rectilinear in form save for that part thereof immediately proximal to the proximal peripliery, where said track is displaced out of said plane of said opening.

Preferably the support track is rectilinear in form save for that part thereof innnediatcly proximal to the proximal periphery, where said track is displaced out of said plane of said opening where it bifurcates into separate tracks each for a designated said support runner.

Whilst in some forms of the present invention this skewed support track can curve that is not a preferred form of the support track. This skewing of the s-upport track also need not be across the full extent of the scope of the closed condition of the two panels but can too a partial skewing over only part of the opening in that respect.

COMS ID No: SMBI-0752333 Received by IP Australia: Time (I-tm) 14:54 Date 200"-5-17 17-MAY-2004 11:27 A J PARK 17-iRY-00411:7 pj pp~<64 9 3566990 P.08 Preferably the distal region of the distal panel is supported by a top and bottom located support runner, each supporting runner running in a respective said support track.

Preferably the distal regions of the distal panels of each set are supported by a top and bottom located support runner, each supporting runner running in a respective said support track.

Preferably the distal region of at least one of the first mentioned distal panel and (ii) the second set, is each supported by one supporting runner at titecr the top or bottom (the "vertical supported location") of the distal panel(s).

Preferably the other -of said top or bottom to said vertical supported location is associated with a guiding runner tracked in the plane or parallel to the plane of the opening, such guiding runner nevertheless allowing by means of an extensile association of the guiding runner with the distal panel(s), movement for the distal panel that follows the locus required to allow the distal region of the distal. panel to move as guided and pivoted wit respect to the opening by the supporting runner guided by the support track.

Preferably the other of said top or bottom to said vertical supported location is (each) associated with a guiding runner tracked in the plane or parallel to the plane of the opening, such guiding runner including an extensile arm pivotally attached to the distal panel, guided and pivoted with respect to the opening by a guide track parallel and preferably in the plane of said opening, said extensile member allowing the following of the locus required to allow the distal region of the distal panel to move as constrained by said support track.

Preferably the or each guiding runner includes an articulation means extending in a pivotal manner between the distal panel (at or towards the distal region) each said articulations means being further pivotally associated with the guide track via a respectve runner bogie located with the guide flak, thereby providing said extensile association.

]Preferably said articulation means is a rigid arm.

COMS ID No: SMBI-00752333 Received by IP Australia: Time (H:rn) 14:54 Date 2004-05-17 17-MAPY-2004 11:27 RJPR 493690 P0 R J PAW 64 9 3566990 P.09 -6- Preferably said rigid arm extends substantially perpendicular to said opening plane when said panels are in said open condition.

Preferably the supporting runner is provided at the top of the distal panel(s) and the guide runner(s) is located at the bottom of the distal panel(s).

Alternatively the guide runner(s) is provided at the top of the. distal panel(s) and the supporting runner(s) is located at the bottom of the distal panel(s).

Preferably the first mentioned proximal panel pivoted by a pivot axis (fixed or movable) at/or adjacent the proximal periphery is fixed.

In other forms however said first mentioned proximal panel, and its pivot axis, can move with respect to top and/or bottom tracking, which is in or substantially parallel to the plane of said opening.

Preferably said panels in an open position, lie substantially parallel to the plane of the opening.

Preferably where only top or bottom support runner(s) is provided for said distal region of said distal panel, a locking pin is provided fixed to said structure, said locking pin positioned for engagement to the other of said one runner supporter side of said distal panel(s), said pin positioned to engage at distal region of said distal panel(s) with an outwardly facing surface of said distal panel(s) when said panel is at and proximate to its closed condition to capture said panel against the jam of said opening.

Preferably provided to (and preferably for each set) the proximal periphery of said proximal panel on the to be distal panel facing side therof when in the open condition is a first of a mutulally attractive means, the distal panel being provided at a corresponding height to the height of said first mutually attractive means on a proximal panel facing side thereof when in the open condition, wit a second Of said mutually attractive means to thereby allow the interaction of said mutually attractive means when in panels ar in the open condition to encourage said distal region of said distal panel to remain engaged to the proximal region of said proximal panel.

Preferably said mutually attractive means are magnetically attractive means.

Preferbly said mutually attractive mean are both magnets.

COMS ID No: SMBI-00752333 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:54 Date 2004-05-17 17-MAY-2004 11:28 A J PARK 64 9 3566990 -7- Preferably said mutually attractive means are positioned towards the bottom of said panels.

Preferably said support track is integrated with the soffitt of the building structure.

Preferably said support track is flush mounted with respect to said soffitt.

Alternatively said support track is mounted to support bracretw uhilh arr in turn directly or indirectly mounted off the building structure.

Preferably said support track is integrated within the ceiling panels of said building structure.

Preferably said support tracks are integrated with the soffitt of the building structure.

Preferably said support tracks are flush mounted with respect to said soffitt.

Preferably said support tracks are mounted to support brackets which are in turn directly or indirectly mounted off the building structure.

Preferably said support tracks are integrated with the ceiling panels of said building structure.

Preferably said support tracks do not extend below the downwardly facing surface of the soffitt or ceiling cladding or panels of said building but are exposed for engagement with the support runners theretbrough.

Preferably said support track(s) is/are mounted to support means which are in turn directly or indirectly mounted off the building structure.

Preferably said support track(s) is/are integrated within the soffitt of the building via said support means.

Preferably said support track(s) is/are mounted from said building via said support means and are integrated within the ceiling panels of said building Preferably said support tsacak c GCad diivdly Lu said buildiug structure.

Preferably said support tracks are flush mounted with respect to said soffitt.

COMS ID No: SMBI-00752333 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:54 Date 2004-05-17 17-MAY-2004 11*268 1P*<6 93690 P1 A J PAW 64 9 3566990 P.11 -8- Preferably said support track is fixed directly to said building structure.

Preferably said support tracks are not co-terminus at the opened condition of the at least two panels.

Preferably the first mentioned support track is more proximate to the plane of said opening that the second mentioned support track.

Preferably any subsequent tracks have the terminal ends likewise displaced outward from the plane of the opening.

Preferably said closure assembly when in an opened condition, said at least two panels, one mutually disaligned by having pivoted mutually towards each other, are substantially clear of the opening and where one of each, or all of at least two panels, lie substantially parallel with respect tothe plane of the opening.

In a second aspect present invention consists in components of a closure assembly as previously defined.

Preferably any one or more of such components is substantially as herein described (with or without reference to any one or more of the accompanying drawings).

In a third aspect the present invention consists in, in a building structure, a pair of support tracks at an opening for a bifold or the like panel assembly, the first of said tracks being proximate more the plane of the opening than the second of said tracks, the tracks being skewed outwardly of the plane of the opening.

Preferably said such track is of a kind capable of being used in an assembly of any of the kinds herein defined or described.

Whilst the invention has now been broadly described the following description provides the most preferred mode of implementing the invention but it will be appreciated that the invention as claimed is not limited to the preferred mode.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Preferred forms ofte present invention will now be described with refernc to the accompanying drawings in which; COMS ID No: SMBI-00752333 Received by IP Australia: Time (Him) 14:54 Date 2004-05-17 1?-MAY-2004 11228 A J PARK 17-IPY200 1126 J RRK64 9 3566990 P.12 -9- Figure 1lA is a plan sectional elevation of a closed multi-fold door with upright frame extrusions showing together with a farst (proximal) and second (distal) panel, and a third panel hingedly mounted from the distal panel, the third panel may be used as a door when the first and second panels are in a closed configuration, Figure 1B is a perspective view looking upwardly and from the outside of an opening closed by a multi-fold door consisting of five panels illustrating the integrated support arrangement which has been integrated into the soffltt, the support tracks attached directly to the soffitt underlying building structure or indirectly (eg via brackets or wires) to the soffitt underlying building structure Figure IC is a plan view of Figure l B including the illustration of the support tracks, Figure 2A is a vertical cross-section elevation looking along line 11 of Figure 1A, showing the multi-fold panel in a closed position showing the detail of the top extrusion, track and top runners. therein and the bottom extrusion, track and bottom runner in its track together with articulation member, Figure 2D shows a similar view to that of 2A with the exception that the open position of the door and runner gear is shown in broken line, and an alternative method of mounting the upper track is shown, via brackets mounted to the support structure framing of the door, which is then mounted to the frame work of the building, Figure 3A is a similar view to Figure 2 taken looking along line III of Figure IA while, Figure 3B is a close (solid closed, broken line open) up of the top track and its indirect fixing to the building framework, of Figure 213, Figure 4 is a close up of the top extrusion and skewed track shown in Figure 2, shown mounted directly to the building frame work, Figure 5 is a close up view of the bottom extrusion and runner engagement therewith and the articulation member between the rnner and distal. panael, and retention pin as shown in Figure 2A, COMS ID No: SMBI-00752333 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:54 Date 2004-05-17 17-MARY-2004 11:29PJPP$6493690 .1 A J PAW 64 9 3566990 P 13 Figure 6A shows a side elevation of the articulation hinge configured in this instance for a bottom track, Figure 6B shows a top elevation of the same hinge in its fully extended form, a position it would assume in Figure 1 when the multi-fold panel is fully open, Figure 6C shows the same binge as of 6B but as it would lie in the fully closed position as shown in Figuzre 1 when the door is closed, Figure 7A illustrates a retention pin and mounting shown in side elevation, Figure 7B is a top elevation of 7A, Figure 8 is a vertical sectional view looking along a multi fold panel assembly analogous to Figure 1 in region III, but showing a magnetic or other mutually attractive means used as an alternative or addition to the hinge shown in Figure 6, Figure 9 is a horizontal elevation of a nub strip shown in location in Figure and Figure 10 illustrates an alternative track configuration (in solid line) versus the multiple (or singular) skewed tracks (in broken line).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THlE INVENTION As used therein and herein the term "plane of the opening" preferably includes a straight plane but may include a curved or other shaped opening and consequently the "plane of the opening" should be interpreted as including any form of opening capable of being tracked substantially to the shape of the opening.

As used herein the term "skewed with respect to the plane of the opening' means at an angle to the plane of the opening (whether individual or part of individual tracks are parallel to each other or not) and includes support tracks that are angled or angling, cranked or curved.

With reference to Figures 1 through 10 a multi-told panel assembly 40 consists of a first (proximal) panel 41, a second (distal) panel 42 and may have dependent there from any number of additional panels 43, 44 and 43A (or more). The third and subsequent panels 43, 44 and 43A are located from the distal end of the second panel COMS ID No: SMBI-00752333 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:54 Date 2004-05-17 17-MRY-2004 11:29P 1PR 49369 .4 A J PARK 64 9 3566990 P.14 -11 42 away from the first panel via a hinge such as hinge 441B. Other configurations such as a two panel arrangement where panels 41 and 42 alone are provided (or 3 or 4 panels) are considered also. Other configures can be envisaged such as a minror image of panels, 41 and 42 to the right of panel 43 opening away and to the right on a similar skewed track (a so called three two panel configuration). Other configurations such as a two two panel configuration (panels 41 and 42 fold away to the left hand side and mirror images of 41 anid 42 fblding away to the right hand side), and other such configurations of three, two and one panels or more are possible also.

The first panel 41 may be hung off the surrounding frame 45 or independent structural member via a binge 46, where any subsequent panels are hung off the first and second panel via hinges 44A and 44B3 etc. Openings could also be spanned with multiple sets of maulti-fold panel assemblies, ejg. one assembly from the left band side and one from the fight. Each hinge alternates on its side of the door so that the assembly of the multi-fold panel may be folded in the concertina like manner.

Depicted in the preferred embodiment of the present invention the centre section 49 of each panel is glazed, though any means for filling the opening may be used such as opaque or translucent materials, or solid materials to form barriers or at least to partially close the opening.

Due to the weight of' the panels that hang on the binge 46 top runners engaged on a top skewed rails 51 and 160 (or in addition or alternatively lower rails) via four beainged rollers 53 which travel inside the top skewed rails.

The top rail, of which 51 is an example, need not be angled over the entire distance to the opening, but rather may be parallel to the plane of the opening 54 for the majority of its length and then move from the plane of the opening 54 to the opened plane 55 at the very last length of door travel. Clearly the two (or more) skewed tracks 51 and 160 need to take into consideration their paths but it may be that a mutual path exists for their respective rollers along some part e.g. see Figure Such trck need not be straight or simply angled bat may curve at a point along its length to allow folding of the door panels into opened plane 55 (and any additional plane for the additional door panel) when opened. For example the track may be "s" shaped at its end of travel toward the hinged end 68.

COMS ID No: SMBI-00752333 Received by IP Australia: Time (I-tm) 14:54 Date 2004-05-17 17-MAY-2004 11:29 PJPR 493690 P1 A J PRRK 64 9 3566990 -12- The asembly in vertical cross-section is shown in Figures 2 and 3, the exterior of the doorway being on the left hand side. On Figure 1 the interior of the opening is on the upper portion and the exterior of the opening is on the lower portion.

Assembled about the moving multi-fold panel assembly is preferably a frame consisting of lower extrusion 59 and upper extrusion 66 associated with each other via side frame members 70 and 71. However such frames need not be provided or need not be provided as an assembly. The lower portion of the frame is defined by extrusion 59 in this embodiment and has a track 52 associated within it. However it may be a separate track which is attached to the lower extrusion 59, or frame defined thereby.

An opening, such as that to be selectively closed by the present invention will normally have timiber framing 83 or other brackets or the like defining the opening, This framing provides at least in part, mounting for the multi fold panel assembly to the surrounding building structure.

In thle preferred embodiment penetrative fastenings 67 screws or nails) are used.

At the hinged end 68 and the firee end 69 of the multi-fold panel assembly preferably are vertical extrusions 70 and 71.

Fascia 72 (or reveals or liners, such as those made of wood) attach to the periphery of the extrusions to provide in part a means to secure the frame to the building, and also provide an aesthetically appealing interior finish. Rebates in such fasia 72 may be provided to receive an edge of interior wallboard lining.

It is desirable for such multi-fold panel assemblies when open (such as shown at the right hand side of Figure 1) to lie each in its own plane which is substantially a plane parallel or acute to that which they are in when closed the plane of the opening). Further more this position should be out of the way of the opening of the frame which they are to close. Such a concertina position allows full access in and out of the doorway, has no protruding panels or similar in which to catch or be walked into, and also provides an aesthetically pleasing look to the door when opened.

COMS ID No: SMBI-00752333 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:54 Date 2004-05-17 1?-MAY-2004 11:30 A J PARK 17-MY-204 1:3 FtI PRI<64 9 3566990 P.16 13 The upper extrusion 66 includes a door jam region 162 against which the upper edges of the panels 41, 42, 43, 44, 45 (etc.) can engage to create a suitable seal there against. A sealing member 163 such as a rubber strip and/or a mnohair snrip may be provided to achieve such sealing. The upper extrusion is preferably engaged to the framing of building structure, directly or indirectly. Incorporated with the soffitt or other overhead horizontal lining surface (such as a ceiling) is the track or tracks 51, 160 and any additional thereto. The tracks are themselves directly fixed to the structure such as for example a bearer or beam 165 by suitable fastening means 166.

Fastening of the tracks to the structure is to be achieved at suitable intervals to ensure that the tracks are capable of supporting the load of the door as progresse between its open and closed conditions.

An alternative embodiment is to have the tracks 51, 160 and any additional tracks, fastened to support brackets 201 by Casters 202. Such support brackets can be attached directly to the frame assembly (66, 70, and 71) or may be integral and unlitary with, for example the upper extrusion, and extend between the plane of the opening 54 and the skewed top skewed rail 51. The support brackets may then also be additionally fastened to the building structure or may be canatilevered from, for example, the upper extrusion. Alternatively also the support brackets may be depending from the building structure by the use of wires or other suspensory means.

When moving through from the closed position to the opening position (to lie folded against the exterior of the building) the top runner 50 attached to the panel (e.g.

the second (distal) panel 42 in Figure must track from the plane of the opening 54 in which the door lies when closed via the top skewed rail 51 to the opened plane 55 in which the panel 42 substantially lies when open. To achieve this the first top skewed rail 51 in which the top runner 50 is engaged must be on a skewed angle from the closed plane to the open plane, 54 and 55 respectively. Such an angle (87 in Figure 1) or displacement from plane 54 will vary depending upon the width of the aperture to be opened the width of panels 41 and 42) and thickness of the panels used which deines the out of plane 54 movement of the top runner by distance x to plane 55. The not inconsequential weight of part of the panels is supported and also guided throughout its movement by the top skewed rail 51 and any additional or partly COMS ID No: SMBI-00752333 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:54 Date 2004-05-17 17-MAY-2004 11-30 A J PARK p pp~<64 9 3566990 P.17 -14additional thereto. The critical point of its movement when most weight is applied as torque to the track 51 is when the panel 42 is at 90 degrees rotation to the plane of the opening 54.

The skewed track need not be straight. It may only skew at a region towards or at the edge of the opening of the multi-fold panel toward end 68), sufficient to allow the top runner 50 for panel 42 to move out of the closed plane 54 to the open plane The closed position of toe panel 42 in cross section is shown in Figure 2A or 2B (in solid line). The closed door second panel 42 lies (and any additional panels) in the closed plane 54. The closed and opened cross-sectional locations of the top skewed rail 51 are shown in 5 1A and 518B in Figures 2, 3 and 4.

Upon opening, panels 41 and 42 break outwards (downwards in Figure 1) at binge point 44A, The panel 42 tracks along the top skewed rail 51 from 5 1A to 5 18.

In doing so the panel 42 comes to lie in or nearly parailel to the opened plane 55, and hence is rotated about hinge 46 through 180 degrees.

Eor aesthetic purposes it is preferable not to have a skewed track at the bottom (although this can be done as an alternative or in addition).

A lower track 52 is preferably however provided for security reasons and also to guide toe panels proximate or about pivot 445. The track prevents in part, in the closed position, the door from being pulled from below (for example by external force or wintd pressure). It also holds the distal end of the distal panel 42 in plane 55 when in the open condition. Through the opening sequence the lower track provides a guide means and imparts rigidity to the opening of the door in conjunction with the runner assembly 88.

Such guided tracking may also be provided at, for or proximate pivot 44C and additional panels.

In order to allow a straight lower track 52 parallel to the opened or closed planes), an extensile association is provided by articulation member 61 which allows the pivotal engagement of a lower runner 62 (with rollers 89) to travel in a straight line COMS ID No: SMBIk00752333 Received by IP Australia: Time (H:rn) 14:54 Date 2004-05-17 17-MAY-2004 11:31 R J PPRK 17-PY-00411:1 RS PRI<64 9 3566990 P.18 (parallel to the open and closed planes) with the panel 42 as it moves out from plane 54 to its open condition. The more preferred form of runner assembly 88 as per Figure 6 may not have the arm articulation member 61 move through a complete 90 degrees.

This therefore allows the lower bogie to travel on a lower straight line parallel to the open and closed planes whilst allowing the point axially aligned with the top runner to travel through the skewed path whilst still being connected to the lower runner assembly 88 engaged in the lower track 52.

in the open condition the articulation member 61 of the extensile member is preferably at 900" to the opening plane thereby having a rigid connection to movement out of plane.

The lower runner consists of an articulation hinge 63 which allows the panel to which it is attached to rotate freely in relation to the articulation member 61 which moves in the lower track 52. Pivotally attached to the articulation member (in this example a swing: ann) 61 is a mounting arm 64 on which are rollers 89 of the runner assembly are provided. Preferably there are two rollers 89 parallel aligned to travel on the lower track 52. Between the articulation binge 63 and the mounting arm 64 and its pivot member 90 is interposed the arm 61.

The top runer 50 consists of four bearinged rollers 53 which sit on a bearing carriage 73, the bearing carriage being pivoted about or at an axis 74.

The runner assembly 88 has the function once the door multi-fold panels have been opened to hold the resulting folded assembly together and prevent at least the panel 42 from swinging outwardly at its bottom edge.

An alternative method of retaining at least panels 41 and 42 (and any additional pairs of panels) together (at the edges away from their respective hinged edges) for such similar purposes is shown in Figure 8 whereby mutually attractive means (for example magnets or one magnet and one ferromagnetic region, but not limited thereto) are located on the inner faces 91 and 92 of the panels 41 and 42. The mutually attractive means 93 and 94 are at least located at facing positions of panels 41 and 42 when in the open condition at or towards the bottom of the panels. Preferably such mutually attracted means are also provided on facing surfaces of panel 43 and 42 when COMS ID No: SMBI-00752333 Received by IP Australia: Time (H:mn) 14:54 Date 2004-05-17 17-MAY-2004 11:31 A J PRRK 1'?-RY-004li!1 P PRK4 3566990 P.19 -16in the open condition to allow for panel 43 to be retained securely in the open condition against panel 42 yet still be conveniently releasable therefrom when it is de-sired to move the assembly to a closed condition. Such mutually attractive means may be provided either towards the top, bottom or other location at the distal most end of the panel 43 facing panel 42 (preferably opposite to the top or bottom side to where the support from track 51 is provided). Such may also be provided for between panels 44 and 43. However a mechanical fastening means may also be provided for this purpose.

Towards the end of movement of the closed condition of the multi-fold panel assembly the panel 42 and 44 and particularly the interior edge 99 of the distal vertical edge of such panels is brought close to and in many circumstances will hit the exterior facing rear edge 100 of the bottom frame extrusion where a lower seal 101 is provided.

Repeated impact of this type can damage both the panel and the frame extrusion and also the lower seal 101 (preferably of a mohair type seal simnilar to that of 163 on the upper extrusion) in that vicinity. It is to be noted that such impact only occurs in the last portion of closing travel of such panels as 42. Therefore a bump extrusion 102 of nylon) is provided, located in such a manner relative to the mohair so that the edge 99 will strike the extrusion 102 and not impact upon the frame 100 or towards the base of the mohair. Such a bump extrusion may be replaceable and or at least sacrificial for this purpose. Materials for such extrusions may be of a plastics material or other such replaceable materials but which will not damage the colour coated panel 42.

A retention pin 103 is located on the lower frame at the position where the second (distal) panel 42 and fourth (distal) panel 44 is located in the closed condition to engage the lower portions of the leading edge of the panel 42 and 44 such that when the panel is in a closed position the panel (or panels attached to) cannot swing out from the bottom frame. Such movement may occur under wind loading or by force applied to the bottom edge of the panel m the closed position. Thus when the panel is closed and locked it cannot be forced open at either the top or the bottom of the frame. The retention pin 103 is mounted on mounting plates 104 and 105 respectively which are COMS ID No: SMBI100752333 Received by IP Australia: Time (H:ni) 14:54 Date 2004-05-17 17-MAY-2004 11:31 A J PPRK 17-RY-004jj~j AJ PRK64 9 3566990 -17fastened to the lower extrusion 59, however any appropiate mounting is suitable, such as directly fastening the retention pin into the lower extrusion.

A like pin may also be used to capture the panel 41 against frame at closed condition. The pin is provided at the top or bottom edge opposite to where the panels are supported by the track 51.

Where panels are bottom supported the top arrangement can be reversed to be provided at bottom. That is, the tracks 51 and 160 may be provided in flooring or set in concrete.

The bottom arrangement of extensile tracking or the magnetic connection,ca in such circumstances be positioned at the top.

The support tracks can be engaged direct or indirectly as described to the support structure of the building and for example the ceiling lining can be brought up to abut the tracks in order to only allow enough exposure of the tracks to allow the support rnnmers to engage with the tracks. Such ceiling lining or cladding may be the sof~tt or interior room cladding, COMS ID No: SMBI-00752333 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:54 Date 200"-5-17

Claims (32)

17-MAY-2004 11:32 0JPR 493690 P2 R J PAW 64 9 3566990 P.21 CLAIMS 1. A closure assembly of an opening of or in a building structure, said closure assembly having at least two mutually pivoted panels (glazed or otherwise) mounted with the mutual pivot axis at least substantially vertical and so as to be movable between the conditions: a closed condition whereby said at least two panels at least substantially in mutual alignment provide at least a partial closure of said opening in or substantially parallel to the plane of the opening, and (ii) an opened condition whereby said at least two panels, mutually disaligned by having pivoted mutually towards each other, are substantially clear of the opening and where one of each, or all of at least two panels, lie at an acute angle or parallel with respect to the plane of the opening, wherein one of said panels (the "proximate panel") is pivoted by an at least substantially vertical pivot axis (movable or otherwise) substantially in the plane of the opening at and/or adjacent one periphery thereof ("the proximal periphery"), and wherein the distal region (distal from said proximate panel) of the other panel (the "distal panel") is supported by at least one supporting runner, and wherein the supporting runner running on a support track at least in part skewed, angled or angling, cranked or curved (hereafter "skewed") with respect to the plane of said opening which has the affect of spacing the supporting runner out of the plane of said opening at/or adjacent said proximal periphery, said support track supported from the building structure. 2. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 1 including a second set of distal and proximal panels, said second set dependent from the distal region of said first mentioned distal panel by pivotal engagement therewith, wherein of said second set, one of said panels (the "proximate panel") is pivoted by an at least substantially vertical pivot axis tracked by said first mentioned support track, and COMS ID No: SMBI-00752333 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:54 Date 2004-05-17 17-MAY-2004 11:32 A J PARK 17-RY-~4 1:2 AJ PRK64 9 3566990 P.22 -19- the distal region of the other panel (the "distal panel") is supported by at least one supporting runner, wherein said as least one support runner of said second set runs on a support track at least in part skewed angled or angling, cranked or curved (hereafter "skewed") with respect to the plane of said opening which has the affect of spacing the supporting runner out of the plane of said opening at/or adjacent said proximal periphery and outwardly from said first mentioned runner of said first mentioned distal panel, said second mentioned support track is supported from the building structure. 3. A closure assembly as claimed in either of claims I or 2 wherein said indirect support is via one or more brackets that at least extend between the plane of the opening and said skewed support track. 4. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 2 wherein said second mentioned support track is at least in part a separate support track to said first mentioned support track at least at the proximal periphery of said of said opening. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein said second mentioned support track is a discrete support track to said first mentioned support track. 6. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims. 2 to 5 wherein said first mentioned and second mentioned support tracks are not parallel to each other. 7. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 6 wherein each said support track provides a distribution function to the support runners in a manner to position respective support runners sequentially outwardly from said opening plane. 8. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7 wherein said or each supporting runner(s) includes a wheeled bogie engaged with the support track. 9. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 8 wherein said or each support runner(s) includes a pivot to allow said wheeled bogie to pivot relative to said distal panel about a vertical axis. COMS ID No: SMBI-00752333 Received by IP Australia: Time (I-Fm) 14:54 Date 2004-05-17 17-MAY-2004 11:32 A J PARK 17-RY-00411:2 PJ PR$<64 9 3566990 P.23 A closure assembly as claimed in claim 9 wherein said vertical axis of said pivot of said or each wheeled bogie(s) is located at or near the mid thickness of said distal panel. 11. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10 wherein the or each support track is substantially rectilinear in form and is at an acute angle with respect to the plane of the opening. 12. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10 wherein the or each support track is at least in pat rectilinear in formn and is at an acute angle with respect to the plane of the opening. 13. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 10 wherein the or each support track is rectilinear in form save for that part thereof immediately proximal to the proximal periphery, where said track is displaced out of said plane of said opening. 14. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims I to 10 wherein the or each support track is rectilinear in form save for that part thereof immediately proximal to the proximal periphery, where said track is displaced out of said plane of said opening where it bifurcates into separate tracks each for a designated said support runner. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 14 wherein the distal region of the distal panel is supported by a top and bottom located support runner, each top and bottom supporting runner rnning in a respective said support track. 16. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 15 wherein the distal regions of the distal panels of each set are supported by a top and bottom located support runner, each supporting runner running in a respective said support track. 17. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claim 2 to 16 wherein the distal region of at least one of the first mentioned distal panel and (ii) the second set, is each supported by one supporting runner at either the top or bottom (the "vertical supported location"') of the distal panel(s).

18. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 17 wherein the other of said top or bottom to said vertical supported location not so supported is associated with a guiding runner tracked in the plane or parallel to the plane of the opening, such guiding runner COMS ID No: SMBI-00752333 Received by II' Australia: Time 14:54 Date 2004-05-17 17-MAY-2004 11'33 A J PARK 17-MY-204 j:33p j ppj<4 9 3555990 P.24 -21- nevertheless allowing by means of an extensile association of the guiding runner with the distal panel(s), movement for the distal panel that follows the locus required to allow the distal region of the distal panel to move as guided and pivoted with respect to the opening by the supporting runner guided by the support track.

19. A closure assembly as claimed in either of claims 17 or 18 wherein the other of said top or bottom to said vertical supported location is (each) associated with a guiding runner tracked in the plane or parallel to the plane of the opening, such guiding runner including an extensile arm pivotally attached to the distal panel, guided and pivoted with respect to the opening by a guide track parallel and preferably in the plane of said opening, said extensile member allowing the following of the locus required to allow the distal region of the distal panel to move as constrained by said support track A closure assembly as claimed in claim 19 wherein the or each guiding runner includes an articulation means extending in a pivotal manner between the distal panel (at or towards the distal region) each said articulation means being further pivotally associated with the guide track -via a respective runner bogie located with the guide track, tbereby providing said extensile association.

21. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 20 wherein said articulation means is a rigid arm.

22. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 21 wherein said rigid arm extends substantially perpendicular to said opening plane when said panels are in said open condition.

23. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 22 wherein the supporting runner is provided at the top of the distal panel(s) and the guide runner(s) is located at the bottom of the distal panel(s).

24. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 23 wherein the guide runner(s) is provided at the top of the distal panel(s) and the supporting runner(s) is located at the bottom of the distal. panel(s). COMS ID No: SMBI-00752333 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:54 Date 2004-05-17 17-MAY-2004 11:33 A J PAW 17-MY-204 l:33 pj ~ra<64 9 3566990 -22 A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 24 wherein the first mentioned proximal panel pivoted by a pivot axis (fired or movable) at/or adjacent the proximal periphery is fixed.

26. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claimns I to 25 wherein said proximal panel, and its pivot axis, can move with respect to top and/or bottom tracking, which is in or substantially parallel to the plane of said opening.

27. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims I to 26 wherein said panels in an open position, lie substantially parallel to the plane of the opening.

28. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claim I to 27 wherein where only top or bottom support runner(s) is provided for said distal region of said distal panel, a locking pin is provided fixed to said structure, said locking pin positioned for engagement to the other of said one runner supporter side of said distal panel(s), said pin positioned to engage at distal region of said distal panel(s) with an outwardly facing surface of said distal panel(s) when said panel is at and proximate to its closed condition to capture said panel against the jam of said opening.

29. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 28 wherein provided to (and preferably for each set) the proximal periphery of said proximal panel, on the to be distal panel facing side thereof when in the open condition is a first of a mutually attractive means, the distal panel being provided at a corresponding height to the height of said first mutually attractive means on a proximal panel facing side thereof when in the open condition, with a second of said mutually attractive means to thereby allow the interaction of said mutually attractive means when in panels arc in the open condition to encourage said distal region of said distal panel to remain engaged to the proximal region of said proximal panel.

30. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 29 wherein said mutually attractive means are magnetically attractive means.

31. A closure assembly as claimed in either of claim 29 or 30 wherein said mutually attractive means are both magnets. COMS ID No: SMBI-00752333 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:54 Date 2004-05-17 17-MAY-2004 11:33 A J PPRK 1?-RY-804jj:3 P3 PRI<64 9 3566990~ P.26 -23

32. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims 29 to 31 wherein said mutually attractive means are positioned towards the bottom of said panels.

33. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 32 wherein said support track is integrated with the soffltt of the building structure

34. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 33 wherein said support track is -flush mounted wit respect to said soffltt. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 34 wherein said support track is mounted to support brackets which are in turn directly or indirectly mounted off the building structure.

36. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims I to 35 wherein said support track is integrated within the ceiling panels of said building structure.

37. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 32 wherein said support tracks are integrated with the soffitt of the building structure

38. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 37 wherein said support tracks are flush mounted with respect to said soflitt.

39. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 38 wherein said support tracks are mounted to support brackets which are in turn directly or indirectly mounted off the building structure. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claimis 2 to 37 wherein said Support tracks are integrated within the ceiling panels of said building structure.

41. A closure assembly as claimned in any one of' claims 37 to 40 wherein said support tracks do not extend below the downwardly facing surface of the soffltt or ceiling cladding of said building but are exposed for engage ment with the support runners theretough.

42. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims I. to 36 wherein said support track(s) is/ are mounted to support means which are in turn directly or indirectly mounted off the building structure- COMS ID) No: SMBI-00752333 Received by IP Australia: Time (I-tm) 14:54 Date 2004-05-17 17-MAY-2004 11:34 A J PARK 17-lRY200 1134 J RRK64 9 3566990 P.2? -24-

43. A closure assembly as claimed in claimo 42 wherein said support track(s) is/are integrated within the soffitt of the building via said support means.

44. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims 42 or 43 wherein said support track(s) is/are mounted from said building via said support means and are integrated within the ceiling panels of said building. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 4 wherein said support track is/are fixed directly to said building structure.

46. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 45 wherein said support tracks are flush mounted with respect to said soffitt.

47. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 46 wherein each said support track is fixed directly to said building structure.

48. A closure assembly as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 47 wherein said support tracks are not co-terminus at the opened condition of the at least two panels.

49. A closure assembly as claimed in claim 48 wherein the first mentioned support track is more proximate to the plane of said opening that the second mentioned support track. A closure assembly as claimed in either claim 48 or 49 wherein any subsequent tracks have the terminal ends likewise displaced outward from the plane of the opening. 5i. A closure assembly as claimed in claim I wherein in an opened condition said at least two panels, one mutually disaligned by having pivoted mutually towards each other, are substantially clear of the opening and where one of each, or all of at least two panels, lie substantially parallel with respect to the plane of the opening.

52. In or for components of a closure assembly herein before defined with reference to any one or more of the accompanying drawings.

53. A component as claimed in claim 52 wherein any one or more of such components is substantially as herein described (with or without reference to any one or more of the accompanying drawings). COMS ID No: SMBI-00752333 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:54 Date 2004-05-17 17-MRY-2004 11:34 A J PRRK 17-IRY-084jj:3 R PRI(4 9 3566990 P.28

54. In or for a building structure, a pair of support tracks at an opening for a bifold or the like panel assembly, the first of said tracks being proximate more the plane of the opening than the second of said tracks, the tracks being skewed outwardly of' the plane of the opening.

55. A building structure as claimed in claim 54 wherein said such track is of a kind capable of being used in an assembly of any of the kinds herein defined or described, with referenc to any one or more of the accompanying drawings. COMS ID No: SMBI-00752333 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:54 Date 2004-05-17