GB2408769A

GB2408769A - Safety door and frame assembly

Info

Publication number: GB2408769A
Application number: GB0328357A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Rupert G Henry; Alessandro Marco D
Original assignee: PEARCE ROY
Current assignee: PEARCE ROY
Priority date: 2003-12-05
Filing date: 2003-12-05
Publication date: 2005-06-08
Also published as: GB0328357D0

Abstract

A door and frame assembly comprising a first compressible member 104 located at an edge portion of the door 100 and a second compressible member 105 located at an edge portion of the frame 101. When the door is closed with an obstruction, such as a hand 1200, placed between the edge portions of the door 100 and frame 101 the compressible members 104, 105 compress about the obstruction 1200. The compressible members 104, 105 may be elongate coated resilient foam strips. The compressible members 104, 105 may have locating means such as dove-tail projections for fitting to the door 100 and frame 101. The compressible members 104, 105 may be positioned at opening edges of the door and frame and/or at hinged edges of the door and frame. A sleeved locking mechanism may be fitted to the assembly. Also provided are compressible members 104, 105 for fitting to a door 100 and frame 101, a kit of parts and methods of manufacturing such a door and frame assembly and methods of inhibiting injury to fingers 1200 using such an assembly.

Description

SAFETY DOOR AND FRAME ASSEMBLY

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a safety door and frame assembly and in s particular, although not exclusively, to a plurality of compressible members inserted within the door and frame.

Background to the Invention

One of the more common accidents associated with doors is the trapping of o fingers between the door and door frame. Two areas of the door and frame pose significant injury risks, these being the regions between the leading edge and the hinged side of the door.

When the door is brought to a closed position any obstruction (in particular as fingers) positioned between the door and frame will be jammed, and the case of fingers it is not uncommon for severe injury to be sustained.

Various safety devices have been proposed in the prior art concerned with the hinged side of the door such devices take the form of guards which prevent go access to the region between the door and frame at the hinged side. Typical examples include GB 2247039, GB 2254355, WO 01/09474 and GB 2218449.

Obviously such guards may only be used at the hinged side and cannot be adapted for use with the leading edge side of the door and frame.

as A different form of door safety assembly is described in WO 94/06993 in which compressible inserts are provided at the leading edge or hinged side of the door or door frame. Injury to fingers trapped in this region is reduced as the compressible member compresses around the obstruction.

so The inventors have identified numerous problems with the prior art safety devices as identified herein, in particular WO 94/06993 does not disclose use of compressible members provided at both the door and frame at the leading edge and hinged side of the door. Substantial injury may still be sustained where a finger is trapped between the compressible insert and a hard portion of the door or frame.

Moreover, the aesthetics of such prior art door safety devices identified herein, is generally unacceptable. A well manufactured and aesthetically appealing door and frame is spoilt by the positioning of a guard-like strip about the hinge side of the door. Similarly, compressible inserts provided at the door or frame detract from the otherwise attractive visual appearance created by the To contours of the door and frame. This is a particular disadvantage where compressible inserts are provided on expensive, highly crafted doors or frames.

A further problem exists with such inserts described in WO 94/06993 in that following extended use of the door, the compressible members will become worn and less effective at preventing injury. The inserts are not described as being interchangeable in the event of wear. It is likely therefore the entire door or frame assembly will have to be replaced in order to replace worn compressible rebates.

What is required therefore is a door and frame assembly configured to significantly reduce the risk of injury posed to trapped fingers in addition to providing an aesthetically appealing safety door and frame having interchangeable safety features which are not readily distinguished visibly from the door and frame.

Summarv of the Invention The inventors provide a safety door and frame assembly configured to substantially inhibit the risk of injury to fingers trapped in the region between the door and frame. The inventors utilise a plurality of compressible members o located at both the door and frame and at both the leading edge and hinged side of the door.

ln use, when fingers are trapped between the compressible members, each member is configured to compress about the obstruction thereby preventing contact between the fingers and all hard edges of the door and frame. The compressible members may be formed as replaceable inserts positioned within the door and frame in the higher risk region where a young person or child may accidentally trap their fingers. The compressible members may comprise a foam or polymer based material of varying densities and hardness to suit a variety of requirements. According to specific implementations, the compressible members may be non-coated or coated with a deformable laminate which may be configured to aesthetically match the appearance of the material used for the doors and frames. Optionally, where a coating is not employed the foam may be dyed to match colouration of the door and frame. Additionally, the coating chosen for the foam may be configured to match the texture of the material of the door and frame.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a door and frame assembly comprising, a first compressible member located at an edge portion of a door, and a second compressible member located at an edge portion of a door frame wherein, in use, when an obstruction is positioned between said do first and said second compressible member, said first and second compressible member compress about said obstruction so to greatly reduce damage to said obstruction.

Preferably, said first and second compressible member comprises locating s means for locating said first compressible member at said door and for locating said second compressible member at said frame.

Preferably, said locating means comprises a projection for locating in said door or said frame.

Preferably, said locating means comprises a dove tail configuration for locating in said door or said frame.

Preferably, said compressible members are elongate members extending along a length of said door and said frame.

Preferably, said compressible members are manufactured from a foam material.

Preferably, said compressible members comprise a coating.

To Preferably, said foam and said coating are configured to return to an original shape following compression.

Preferably, said coating is a laminate coating.

s Preferably, said first compressible member is located at a leading edge of said door and said second compressible member is located at an edge of said frame configured to mate with said leading edge of said door.

Alternatively, said first compressible member is located at a hinged side of To said door and said second compressible member is located at a hinged side of said frame.

Alternatively, said compressible members are located at a leading edge and a hinged side of said door and a door leading edge receiving side and a hinged s side of said frame, wherein a plurality of the compressible members are located in a region between said door and said frame.

Preferably, the door and frame assembly further comprises a surface mounted hinge mounted on an exterior surface of said door and an exterior o surface of said frame.

Preferably, said door comprises a sleeved locking mechanism mounted at said frame.

Preferably, said sleeved locking mechanism comprises a rubber sleeve provided around a locking mechanism.

Preferably, said sleeved locking mechanism is capable of being fixed to said frame wherein said second compressible member is configured for positioning about said sleeved locking mechanism.

Preferably, said door comprises a locking mechanism being housed within said first compressible member.

Preferably, the door and frame assembly further comprises an exterior profile of said first compressible member corresponds to an exterior profile of said door and an exterior profile of said second compressible member corresponds to an exterior profile of said frame.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a go first compressible member for locating at a door and a second compressible member for locating at a frame, said first and second compressible member comprising, at least one exterior surface, said at least one exterior surface of said first compressible member corresponding in shape to at least one exterior surface of said door and said at least one exterior surface of said second : compressible member corresponding in shape to at least one exterior surface of said frame, locating means being provided on said first and second compressible member, said locating means being configured for securing said first compressible member to said door and said second compressible member to said frame, whereby said first compressible member and said second so compressible member are located opposed to one another when said door is brought to a closed position, wherein, in use, when an obstruction is position between said first and second compressible member and said door is brought to said closed position, said first and second compressible member compresses about said obstruction so as to greatly reduce damage to said obstruction.

Preferably, the first and second compressible member further comprise a compressible foam.

Preferably, said first and second compressible member further comprise a coating.

To Preferably, said first compressible member is profiled to correspond to a profiling of said door and said second compressible member is profiled to correspond to a profiling of said frame.

Preferably, said door mounted compressible member is configured to mate with the frame mounted compressible member.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a kit of parts for a safety door and frame assembly comprising, at least one compressible member for affixing to a door, at least one compressible member for affixing to a frame, wherein the compressible members are capable of being located in a region between said door and said frame whereby when an obstruction is positioned between said door and said frame the compressible members compresses about said obstruction so as to greatly reduce damage to said obstruction.

The present invention may be utilised by non-professional tradesmen wishing to convert a rigid door and frame assembly to a soft door and frame assembly. Accordingly, the kit of parts may further comprise a router configured for forming grooves or recesses in the door and frame so as to accommodate the so compressible members and in particular the locating means provided on the compressible members. As adhesive may also be supplied with the kit being used to adhere the compressible members to the door and frame. Optionally, a disc saw may be further provided with the kit to enable the cutting of compressible members, the door and/or door frame. The kit of parts is is also configurable for use with professional tradesmen.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of manufacturing a safety door and frame assembly further comprises profiling a portion of a door to receive a first compressible member, locating said first compressible member at said portion of said door, profiling a portion of a frame to receive a second compressible member, locating said second o compressible at said portion of said frame, wherein the first and second compressible members are located in a region between said door and said frame to compress about an obstruction placed within said region between said door and frame when said door is brought to a closed position within said from.

: Preferably, the method further comprises, locating a projection formed on said first compressible member into a groove formed in said door; and locating a projection formed on said second compressible member into a groove formed in said frame, wherein said first and second compressible members are substantially fixed in place by cooperation between the projection and the groove.

Preferably, the method further comprises, securing a locking mechanism to said door and said frame in a region of said door and said frame including said first and second compressible member.

Preferably, said lock is provided within a sleeve, said sleeve being secured to said frame.

Preferably, the method further comprises, configuring said first compressible member to correspond in appearance to an exterior surface so profiling of said door and configuring said second compressible member to correspond in appearance to an exterior surface profiling of said frame, wherein the first and second compressible members are not readily visibly distinguishable from said door and said frame.

Preferably, the method further comprises, locating said first compressible member on a leading edge of said door; and locating said second compressible member on a portion of said frame configured to receive said leading edge of said door.

Alternatively, the method further comprises, locating said first compressible To member on a hinged side of said door, and locating said second compressible member on a hinged side of said frame.

Alternatively, the method further comprises, locating said first compressible member on a leading edge of said door, locating said second compressible member on a portion of said frame configured to receive said leading edge of said door, locating a further first compressible member on a hinged side of said door, and locating a further second compressible member on a hinged side of said frame.

To According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of inhibiting injury to at least one finger of a person further comprises locating a first compressible member at a leading edge portion of a door, and locating a second compressible member at a portion of a frame configured to receive said leading edge of said door, wherein the first and second compressible s members are configured to compress about said finger when said finger is positioned between said leading edge of said door and said frame.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of inhibiting injury to at least one finger of a person in a region between a so door and a frame, said method further comprises, locating a first compressible elongate member at a hinged side of a door; and locating a second compressible member at a hinged side of a frame, wherein, in use, when said at least one finger is positioned between said door and said frame in said hinged region, said first and second compressible members are configured to compress about said at least one finger thereby inhibiting injury to said person in response to said being brought to a closed position.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention there is provided a safety door and frame assembly further comprises configured for inhibiting injury to the fingers of a person, said assembly comprising, an elongate compressible rebate configured for locating at a door, a second compressible elongate rebate To located at a portion of said frame configured to receive said door, locating means being formed on said first and second rebate, said locating means being configured for securing said first rebate to said door and said second rebate to said frame, wherein upon closure of said door said first and second rebate are brought together so as to present a soft door and frame assembly region s between said door and said frame capable of compressing about said fingers of said person if said fingers were positioned between said door and said frame.

Preferably, said at least one first rebate is located at a leading edge of said door and at least one first rebate is located at a hinged side of said door, and at o least one second rebate is located at a portion of said frame configured to receive said leading edge of said door and at least one second rebate is located at a hinged side of said frame, wherein compressible regions are provided on both substantially vertical sides of said door and frames.

Preferably, said first and second rebate are profiled, whereby said first and second rebate are not readily visibly distinguishable from said door and frame.

Brief Description of the Drawings

For a better understanding of the invention and to show how the same may be carried into effect, there will now be described by way of example only, specific embodiments, methods and processes according to the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1A illustrates a side elevation view of the safety door and frame assembly according to a specific implementation of the present invention; Figure 1B illustrates a side elevation view of the safety door and frame assembly according to a further specific implementation of the present invention; Figure 2 illustrates a cross-sectional plan view of a leading edge side of the door and frame assembly according to the specific implementation of the present invention; Figure 3 illustrates a cross- sectional plan view of the hinged side of the door and frame assembly according to the specific implementation of the present invention; Figure 4 illustrates a cross-sectional plan view of a further specific implementation of the door and frame assembly at the hinged side of the door; Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of a door mounted compressible member according to the specific implementation of the present invention; Figure 6 illustrates a perspective view of the frame mounted compressible member according to the specific implementation of the present invention; Figure 7 illustrates a perspective view of the door mounted compressible member according to the specific implementation of the present invention; Figure 8A illustrates a perspective view of a door mounted elongate compressible member configured for positioning at the hinged side of the door according to a specific implementation of the present invention; Figure 8B illustrates a perspective view of a door mounted elongate compressible member configured for positioning at the hinged side of the door according to a further specific implementation of the present invention; Figure 9 illustrates a perspective view of a further specific implementation of the door mounted elongate compressible member; Figure 10 illustrates a perspective view of a further specific implementation of an elongate compressible member configured for mounting at a door; Figure 11 illustrates a perspective cut-away view of the compressible member comprising a coating according to the specific implementation of the present invention; Figure 12 illustrates a cross- section plan view of a door and frame assembly comprising a plurality of compressible members compressing about fingers of a child according to the specific implementation of the present invention.

Detailed Description

There will now be described by way of example a specific mode contemplated by the inventors. In the following description numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding. It will be apparent however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be :s practiced without limitation to these specific details. In other instances, well known methods and structures have not been described in detail so as not to

unnecessarily obscure the description.

Referring to figure 1A herein there is illustrated a side elevation view of the safety door and frame assembly comprising door 100; frame 101; hinges 102; handle 103; compressible members 104, 105, 106 and 107.

According to the specific implementation of the present invention compressible members 104, 105, 106 and 107 are formed as longitudinal strips inserted into the door body 100 and frame 101. Compressible members 104, 105, 106 and 107 are provided at the interface between the door and frame being configured to match the profiling and texture of the door and frame. As such, the compressible members may not be easily identified visibly wherein the aesthetics of the door and frame remain unspoiled. In particular, a skin, layer or coating may be formed on the compressible members so as to eliminate any contrast between the rebates and there surroundings.

Compression safety regions may extend around the entire door or over discrete regions as detailed in figure 1A herein. In particular, the present invention is configured for positioning over and about the handle or lock portion of the door so as to provide a total compression safety feature in this region.

Door 100 and frame 101 are adapted to accommodate the compressible members via grooves or 'cut out' regions corresponding in size and shape to a portion of the compressible members to be located or partially located therein.

The compressible members, according to the specific implementation of the present invention, comprise at least one projection configured for locating in the groove or channel formed in the door 100 or frame 101. The coorporation between the projection and the channel provides for a securing of the compressible member to the door or frame. Optionally or additionally, an adhesive, in particularly is soluble adhesive, may be used to improve an affixing 2 5 of the compressible members to the door or frame. A soluble adhesive may be used to facilitate removal or replacement of existing compressible members with replacement by new impact absorbing members or alternatively hard wood replacement units where the requirement for a compressible safety feature no longer exist.

Referring to figure 1B herein there is illustrated a side elevation view of the safety door and frame assembly as detailed in figure 1A herein according to a further specific implementation. Elongate compressible member 104 is divided into two segments positioned either side of the lock associated with handle 103.

Similarly, the frame mounted compressible member 105 is also divided into two separate compressible members extending either side of the lock associated with handle 103.

Both sets of compressible members located at the leading edge and hinged side of the door and frame, according to the further specific implementation, extend the full length of the door and frame wherein a compressible region is To provided over substantially the entire region between the door and frame in the substantially vertical direction.

The hinge mounted compressible members 106, 107 may be formed as single elongate members or may be divided into segments located either side of surface mounted hinge 102.

The region in close proximity to the door lock may be specifically configured with a separate compressible member or a similar non-rigid body so as to provide a complete soft frame assembly extending substantially along the length of the o leading edge of the door and frame. As detailed herein below, the door locking means may be mounted in a deformable rubber sleeve.

Referring to figure 2 herein that is illustrated a cross-sectional plan view of a leading edge side of the door and frame assembly as detailed with reference to s figure 1A herein. Compressible member 104 is formed with two projections 200, configured for locating in grooves formed in door 100. Door 100 may be profiled further to better accommodate compressible member 104. Similarly, the frame mounted compressible member 105 comprises two projections 201 configured for mounting within grooves formed in frame 101. Projections 200 and 201 may so extend over the entire length of the compressible members or may be formed along discrete intervals along the length. Securing of projections 200 and 201 to the door 100 and frame 101 simply involves a compression of the projection, being formed integrally with the main body of the compressible member, and insertion into the groove whereby expansion of the projection locks the rebate into position. An adhesive may provide further securing of the rebate to the door or frame.

Frame mounted rebate 105 is profiled so as to accommodate the leading edge of the door including the mounted compressible member 104. The profiling in this region is configured to allow the opening and closing of door 100 as with conventional door and frame assembles.

Accordingly, and when in use, a complete compressible region (soft door and frame assembly) is provided being formed between the door and frame whereby compression about an obstruction positioned between the door and frame is provided on both the door side and the frame side of the obstruction.

l For example, injury to a finger accidentally positioned between door and frame in the regions to 202, 203 will be prevented or significantly reduced due to the absence of hard surfaces in these regions. In particular, door mounted compressible member 104 is provided over an entire end region of door 100 having a depth extending between the door 100 and frame 101 so as to provide a sufficiently large area of impact absorbance preventing injury to an obstruction (finger) at an exterior side of door and frame 203 and an interior side of door and frame 202. Accordingly, a safety door and frame is provided comprising a compressible safety feature serving to prevent injury to an individual both opening and closing the door from either side. Door 100 may be profiled symmetrically about a central axis configured to accommodate a symmetrical compressible member 104 positioned symmetrically over the leading edge portion of door 100.

Referring to figure 3 herein there is illustrated a cross-sectional plan view of the hinged side of door 100 and frame 101 as detailed with reference to figures so 1A, 1B and 2 herein. Compressible members 106 and 107 are located in the region between the door and frame at the hinged side of the door. As detailed with reference to figure 2 herein locating means are provided on the compressible members for locating at the door or frame. According to the specific implementation of the present invention locating means are formed as longitudinally extending projections 300 and 301 formed on compressible members 106 and 107, respectively. In order to provide resistance to separation of the compressible member from its housing (door or frame) the projections comprises a 'dove tail' like shape as detailed herein. The projection is simply compressed and inserted within the groove formed in the door or frame to accommodate the compressible dove tail.

JO At the hinged side of the door both a door mounted compressible member 106 and a frame mounted compressible member 107 are provided, providing in turn safety region 302 whereby injury to a finger accidentally placed within region 302 is avoided due to the absence of hard surfaces in this region. Compressible member 107, being similar to compressible member 105, is configured to receive and accommodate a portion of door 100 as with conventional door and frame assemblies. A surface mounted hinge 303 is secured to the frame and door by suitable means 304. Mounting of the hinge 303 at an exterior surface of the door and frame provides two advantages over conventional systems where the hinge is mounted in the region between the door and frame, firstly, the potentially 2 o hazardous region between the door and frame at this hinged side of the door is closed by mountings 304 which extend over both the door and frame. This region is therefore closed-off at one side of the door and frame. Secondly, the region between the door and frame is free from hinge mountings so as to enable complete soft door and frame assembly in this hazardous region. That is, s compressible members 106 and 107 represent the only bodies of contact to an obstruction placed in this region between the door and frame.

According to the specific implementation of the present invention compressible member 106 does not extend across the full width of door 100 so whereby a portion of door 100, at the region closest to hinge 303 and hinge mounting 304 extends fully up to compressible member 107. This particular configuration provides greater structural strength at the hinged side of the door and frame however, compressible member 106 is of sufficient width to provide an adequate safety region in the event of a finger being inserted within region 302.

Referring to figure 4 herein that is illustrated a cross-sectional plan view of a further specific implementation of the soft door and frame assembly at the hinged side of the door. The frame assembly comprises a first compressible member 107 mounted partially within frame 101 as detailed with reference figures 1 and 3 herein. The frame assembly further comprises a door mounted compressible member 400 comprising locating means 401, extension 403 and extension 402. To Being similar to the embodiment of figure 3 herein compressible members

400, 107 mounted in close proximity to surface mounted hinge 303 provide a soft deformable region configured to compress about a projection accidentally inserted in region 302 when the door is open then closed.

According to the further specific implementations, extension 402 and 403 provide an increased region of compression, in turn providing a greater region of safety between the door and frame. For example, a finger or hand accidentally inserted within region 302 up to and behind the surface mounted hinge 303 is provided with a complete compression zone extending over the entire interface go between the door and frame. As detailed with reference to figure 2 herein, an entirely soft or compressible environment is provided extending over the entire interface between door and frame, at the leading edge side of the door, so as to eliminate or substantially reduce injury to a hand or finger.

s Referring to figure 5 herein there is illustrated a perspective view of door mounted compressible member 105 as detailed with reference to figure 2 herein.

According to the specific implementation of the present invention the compressible member 105 comprises a slot of sufficient dimensions to accommodate a locking mechanism 503. Locking mechanism 503 is inserted in So to the slot formed within face 501 whereby the locking mechanism may be secured to door 101. Locking mechanism 503 may be a sleeved locking mechanism comprising a foam or rubber material positioned around its perimeter so as to conceal all hard surfaces. Locking mechanism 503 comprises suitable recesses, 504, 505 configured to receive a corresponding latch or lock of the door mounted locking mechanism. Compressible member 105 may be configured to house the sleeve locking mechanism 503 at any position within surface 501. The slot formed in surface 501 extends through to surface 506, surface 506 being in contact with door 101. The dimensions of surfaces 500, 501 and 502 are dependent upon the dimensions of the door mounted compressible member 104 so as to provide a mating between the two members whereby the door is configured to open and close in the same manner as conventional door o and frame assemblies.

Referring to figure 6 herein there is illustrated a perspective view of the frame mounted compressible member 105, 107. The member comprises an elongate shape with a step like configuration between surfaces 500, 501 and 502. End surfaces 601 are provided at each end of the longitudinal rebate together with additional surfaces 600, 602 and an underside surface positioned opposite surfaces 501 and 500 in close proximity to the longitudinally extending locating means 201, 301.

o Referring to figure 7 herein there is illustrated the door mounted compressible member 104 as detailed with reference to figures 1 and 2 herein.

The elongate member comprises exterior surfaces 700 and 701 extending longitudinally along the length of the main body. Additional extensions are provided 703 also extending along the length of the compressible member so as s to provide an increased region of compression when the rebate is secured to a door as detailed with reference to figure 2 herein. The compressible member comprises end surfaces 702 and an underside surface being opposite surface 700 and adjacent longitudinal locating means 200 formed as dove tail projections which extend away from the underside of compressible member 104 as with 3 o member 105, 107 detailed with reference to figure 6 herein.

When accommodated within or positioned at the leading edge of door 100 the underside surface of the compressible member, end surfaces 702 and both projections 200 are positioned against the surface of the door, such surfaces being concealed by the door. When in use, the only visible surfaces are surfaces 700 and 701, such visible surfaces may be textured, dyed or coloured so as to match a colour and texture of the door and frame.

Referring to figure 8A herein there is illustrated a perspective view of door mounted elongate compressible member 106 configured for positioning at a To leading edge or hinged side of the door and frame assembly. The elongate member comprises exterior surface 800 and exterior surfaces 801, these being capped by end surfaces 802 formed at each end of the longitudinal member.

Locating means 300 is provided as a dove tail configuration according to the specific implementation of the present invention. An underside surface is s provided opposite exterior surface 800 and adjacent locating means 300. When mounted at door 100 one of surfaces 801 is concealed by the door in addition to surfaces 802 and the underside surface adjacent projection 300, the visible surfaces being surfaces 800 and one of surfaces 801.

So Referring to figure 8B herein there is illustrated a perspective view of door mounted elongate compressible member 800 configured for positioning at the leading edge or hinged side of the door and frame assembly. Elongate member 800 comprises exterior surface 801 and exterior surfaces 802, these being terminated at both end by surfaces 803. Locating means 804 is provided as a : pertrusion extending away from an underside surface of member 800. Locating means 804 is configured with a substantially square or rectangular cross-section along its length extending substantially the full length of member 800. Locating means 804 is positioned centrally between surfaces 802. Surfaces 805 of locating means 804 are aligned substantially perpendicular to underside surface So 806. The embodiment of figure 8B, having a non-tapered locating means provides for easy securing to the door as a simple, square or rectangular groove is required to be cut into the door to provide the correct seating for locating means 804.

According to further specific implementations of the present invention frame mounted compressible member 105, 107 may also be configured with one or a plurality of locating means 804 provided at a surface of the compressible member in contact with the door. A frame mounted compressible member comprising one or more locating means having a square or rectangular cross section provides for easy affixing of the frame mounted compressible member to o the door frame. Such embodiments are particularly beneficial when the compressible members are incorporated into a door and frame by a non professional tradesmen.

Referring to figure 9 herein there is illustrated a prospective view of a further specific implementation of the door mounted elongate compressible member 900 configured for positioning at the leading edge or hinged side of the door.

Elongate compressible member 900 comprises exterior surface 901 and corresponding longitudinal surfaces 902 which may be configured as exterior or concealed surfaces depending upon the orientation and position at the door. The member further comprises surfaces 903 provided at each end of the longitudinal member in addition to locating means formed as projections 904 extending longitudinal on an underside surface of member 900. As detailed with the reference to figures 6 to 8 herein the locating means may be formed as dove tail projections providing a secure attachment of the rebate to door and frame.

Referring to figure 10 herein there is illustrated a prospective view of a further specific implementation of an elongate compressible member 1000 configured for mounting at a door comprising exterior surface 1001 and corresponding longitudinal surfaces 1002. Extensions 1005 are provided on a 3 o lower portion of member 1000 so as to provide an increased region of compression when member 1000 is located between the door and frame. A single dove tail projection extends from an underside surface of member 1000 between end surfaces 1003.

Referring to figures 6 to 10 herein the compressible members may be formed with rounded edges or defined edges depending upon the aesthetic requirements of the rebates, this being determined by the aesthetics of the door and frame with which the compressible members are to form a component part.

Importantly, the members are configured so as to be visually non-distinct from the door and frame assembly.

Referring to figure 11 herein there is illustrated a prospective cut away view of compressible member 106 comprising coating 1100 and foam body 1102.

Foam body 1102 may comprise any type of compressible foam configured to return to an original shape and configuration following compression. In particular, high density, high absorbency foam is particularly advantageous allowing construction of impact absorbing members being configurable for shaping so as to match the contours and shape of the door and frame assembly.

According to a specific implementation of the present invention the So compressible members need not be covered by coating 1100 whereby foam 1102 is configured with pre-colouration or may be dyed, coloured or painted to match a colour or colours of the door and frame assembly.

Foam body 1102 is further configured for use with a soluble adhesive : without degradation so as to enable the compressible member to be adhered to the door and frame without degrading over time when in contact with the adhesive. Further, the use of a particular density foam may be selected for positioning of the rebate at either the door or frame, for example a higher density foam may be used at the frame where an increase in structure strength may be so greater than at the door. Alternatively, all foam densities may be uniform between door and frame components.

Coating 1100 according to the specific implementation is formed as a dyed or poly-dyed laminate configured to substantially encase the inner foam core.

The laminate may be smooth or textured so as to match the exterior surface of the door and frame assembly with the effect that the compressible rebates are not readily distinguished from their surroundings. In particular, the laminate coating may be dyed, poly-dyed or configured to be painted so as to match colouration of the door and frame assembly. Coating 1100 may be a non-rigid layer configured to deform and return to its original form following compression.

To Referring to figure 12 herein there is illustrated a cross-section plan view of a door and frame assembly comprising a polarity of compressible members 104, compressing about fingers 1200 accidentally placed in the region 1201 between the door 100 and frame 101. By providing compressible members on both regions of the door and frame the present invention may utilise high density : foam rebates configured to compress about fingers 1200 without causing injury thereto. The use of high density foam is particular beneficial when configuring the rebates to match the appearance of the door and frame with regard to profiling and texture. Where a single compressible member is provided on either the door or frame a low density foam must be employed in an attempt to reduce 2 o injury to trapped fingers as at least one side of the fingers will be pressed against a hard surface. Accordingly, utilisation of high density foam with or without a laminate coating provides compressible members that may be readily taylored to suit the contours of the door and frame so as to be almost indistinguishable therefrom. Where an outer coating is applied to the foam inner 1102, the rebates may be substantially disguised as part of the door and frame assembly.

Claims

Claims: 1. A door and frame assembly comprising: a first compressible

member located at an edge portion of a door; and a second compressible member located at an edge portion of a door frame; wherein, in use, when an obstruction is positioned between said first and JO said second compressible member, said first and second compressible member compress about said obstruction so to greatly reduce damage to said obstruction.
2. The door and frame assembly as claimed in claim 1 wherein said first and second compressible member comprises locating means for locating s said first compressible member at said door and for locating said second compressible member at said frame.
3. The door and frame assembly as claimed in claim 2 wherein said locating means comprises a projection for locating in said door or said frame.
4. The door and frame assembly as claimed in claim 3 wherein said locating means comprises a dove tail configuration for locating in said door or said frame.

z
5. The door and frame assembly as claimed in claim 3 wherein said locating means comprises a square or rectangular cross-section.
6. The door and frame assembly as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said compressible members are elongate members extending along a o length of said door and said frame.
7. The door and frame assembly as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the compressible members are manufactured from a foam material.
8. The door and frame assembly as claimed in claim 7 wherein said compressible members comprise a coating.
9. The door and frame assembly as claimed in claim 8 wherein said foam and said coating are configured to return to an original shape following compression.
10. The door and frame assembly as claimed in claim 8 wherein said coating is a laminate coating.
11. The door and frame assembly as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said first compressible member is located at a leading edge of said door and said second compressible member is located at an edge of said frame configured to mate with said leading edge of said door.
12. The door and frame assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 1 to So 10 wherein said first compressible member is located at a hinged side of said door and said second compressible member is located at a hinged side of said frame.
13. The door and frame assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 1 to : 10 wherein said compressible members are located at a leading edge and a hinged side of said door and a door leading edge receiving side and a hinged side of said frame; wherein a plurality of the compressible members are located in a region 3 0 between said door and said frame.
14. The door and frame assembly as claimed in any preceding claim further comprising a surface mounted hinge mounted on an exterior surface of said door and an exterior surface of said frame.
15. The door and frame assembly as claimed in any preceding claim wherein said door comprises a sleeved locking mechanism mounted at said frame.
16. The door and frame assembly as claimed in claim 15 wherein said sleeved locking mechanism comprises a rubber sleeve provided around a locking o mechanism.
17. The door and frame assembly as claimed in claims 15 or 16 wherein said sleeved locking mechanism is capable of being fixed to said frame wherein said second compressible member is configured for positioning about said sleeved locking mechanism.
18. The door and frame assembly as claimed in anyone of claims 15 to 17 wherein said door comprises a locking mechanism being housed within said first compressible member.
19. The door and frame assembly as claimed in any preceding claim wherein an exterior profile of said first compressible member corresponds to an exterior profile of said door and an exterior profile of said second compressible member corresponds to an exterior profile of said frame.
20. A first compressible member for locating at a door and a second compressible member for locating at a frame, said first and second compressible member comprising: so at least one exterior surface, said at least one exterior surface of said first compressible member corresponding in shape to at least one exterior surface of said door and said at least one exterior surface of said second compressible member corresponding in shape to at least one exterior surface of said frame; locating means being provided on said first and second compressible member, said locating means being configured for securing said first compressible member to said door and said second compressible member to said frame, whereby said first compressible member and said second compressible member are located opposed to one another when said door is brought to a closed position; wherein, in use, when an obstruction is position between said first and second compressible member and said door is brought to said closed position, said first and second compressible member compresses about said obstruction so as to greatly reduce damage to said obstruction.
21. The first and second compressible member as claimed in claim 20 wherein said locating means comprises a projection configured for positioning within said door or said frame.
2022. The first and second compressible member as claimed in claim 21 wherein said projection comprises a dove tail configuration.
23. The first and second compressible member as claimed in claimed 21 wherein said projection comprises a square or rectangular cross- section.
24. The first and second compressible member as claimed in anyone of claims 20 to 22 formed from a compressible foam.
25. The first and second compressible member as claimed in anyone oof claims 20 to 24 further comprising a coating.
26. The first and second compressible member as claimed in anyone of claims 20 to 25 wherein said first compressible member is profiled to correspond to a profiling of said door and said second compressible member is profiled to correspond to a profiling of said frame.
27. The first and second compressible member as claimed in claim 26 wherein the door mounted compressible member is configured to mate with the frame mounted compressible member.
28. A kit of parts for a safety door and frame assembly comprising: at least one compressible member for affixing to a door; at least one compressible member for affixing to a frame; wherein the compressible members are capable of being located in a region between said door and said frame whereby when an obstruction is positioned between said door and said frame the compressible members compresses about said obstruction so as to greatly reduce damage to said obstruction.
29. The kit of parts as claimed in claim 28 wherein each compressible member comprises a projection configured for locating in said door or said frame.
30. The kit of parts as claimed in claim 29 wherein said projection comprises a dove tail configuration.
31. The kit of parts as claimed in claim 29 wherein said projection comprises a square or rectangular cross-section.
32. The kit of parts as claimed in anyone of claims 28 to 31 wherein so said compressible members are elongate compressible members comprising a surface profiling corresponding to a surface profiling of said door and/or said frame.
33. The kit of parts as claimed in anyone of claims 28 to 32 wherein said compressible members comprise a coating.
34. The kit of parts as claimed in anyone of claims 28 to 33 further comprising a router.
35. The kit of parts as claimed in anyone of claims 28 to 34 further comprising an adhesive configured for affixing said compressible member to said o door or said frame.
36. The kit of parts as claimed in anyone of claims 28 to 35 further comprising a disc saw.
37. A method of manufacturing a safety door and frame assembly comprising: profiling a portion of a door to receive a first compressible member; 2 o locating said first compressible member at said portion of said door; profiling a portion of a frame to receive a second compressible member; locating said second compressible at said portion of said frame; wherein the first and second compressible members are located in a region between said door and said frame to compress about an obstruction placed within said region between said door and frame when said door is brought to a closed position within said frame.
38. The method as claimed in claim 37 further comprising: locating a projection formed on said first compressible member into a groove formed in said door; and locating a projection formed on said second compressible member into a groove formed in said frame; wherein said first and second compressible members are substantially fixed in place by cooperation between the projection and the groove.

JO
39. The method as claimed in claim 38 wherein said projection formed on said first and second compressible member comprises a dove tail configuration.
40. The method as claimed in claim 38 wherein said projection formed on said first and second compressible member comprises a square or rectangular cross-section.
41. The method as claimed in anyone of claim 37 to 40 further comprising: securing a locking mechanism to said door and said frame in a region of said door and said frame including said first and second compressible member.
42. The method as claimed in claim 41 wherein said locking : mechanism is provided within a sleeve, said sleeve being secured to said frame.
43. The method as claimed in anyone of claims 37 to 42 further comprising: configuring said first compressible member to correspond in appearance to an exterior surface profiling of said door and; configuring said second compressible member to correspond in appearance to an exterior surface profiling of said frame; wherein the first and second compressible members are not readily visibly distinguishable from said door and said frame.
44. The method as claimed in anyone of claims 37 to 43 further comprising: o locating said first compressible member on a leading edge of said door; and locating said second compressible member on a portion of said frame configured to receive said leading edge of said door.
45. The method as claimed in anyone of claims 37 to 42 further comprising: locating said first compressible member on a hinged side of said door; and o locating said second compressible member on a hinged side of said frame.
46. The method as claimed in anyone of claims 37 to 43 further comprising: 2 locating said first compressible member on a leading edge of said door; locating said second compressible member on a portion of said frame configured to receive said leading edge of said door; o locating a further first compressible member on a hinged side of said door; and locating a further second compressible member on a hinged side of said frame.
47. A method of inhibiting injury to at least one finger of a person comprising: locating a first compressible member at a leading edge portion of a door; and To locating a second compressible member at a portion of a frame configured to receive said leading edge of said door; wherein the first and second compressible members are configured to compress about said finger when said finger is positioned between said leading s edge of said door and said frame.
48. A method of inhibiting injury to at least one finger of a person in a region between a door and a frame, said method comprising: To locating a first compressible elongate member at a hinged side of a door; and locating a second compressible member at a hinged side of a frame; s wherein, in use, when said at least one finger is positioned between said door and said frame in said hinged region, said first and second compressible members are configured to compress about said at least one finger thereby inhibiting injury to said person in response to said door being brought to a closed position.
49. A safety door and frame assembly configured for inhibiting injury to the fingers of a person, said assembly comprising: an elongate compressible rebate configured for locating at a door; a second compressible elongate rebate located at a portion of said frame configured to receive said door; locating means being formed on said first and second rebate, said locating means being configured for securing said first rebate to said door and said second rebate to said frame; wherein upon closure of said door said first and second rebate are brought together so as to present a soft door and frame assembly region between said door and said frame capable of compressing about said fingers of said person if said fingers were positioned between said door and said frame.
50. The assembly as claimed in claim 49 wherein at least one first rebate is located at a leading edge of said door and at least one first rebate is located at a hinged side of said door; and at least one second rebate is located at a portion of said frame configured to receive said leading edge of said door and at least one second rebate is located at a hinged side of said frame; wherein compressible regions are provided on both substantially vertical 2 5 sides of said door and frames.
51. The assembly as claimed in claim 50 wherein said first and second rebate are profiled whereby said first and second rebate are not readily visibly distinguishable from said door and frame.