GB2523157A

GB2523157A - Latticed frame for a window

Info

Publication number: GB2523157A
Application number: GB1402663.7A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Robert Lees
Original assignee: HURLANDS INNOVATIONS Ltd
Current assignee: HURLANDS INNOVATIONS Ltd
Priority date: 2014-02-14
Filing date: 2014-02-14
Publication date: 2015-08-19
Also published as: GB201402663D0

Abstract

A layered latticed window frame 11, the layered latticed frame having a plurality of window element apertures and a first 11a and second 11b latticed frame layer and a thermally insulating material 17 between the first and second latticed frame layers. Preferably the insulating material is a thermally insulating tape with a thickness of less than 4mm, preferably 2-4mm, or it may be a non-porous material e.g. a closed cell foam. The insulating material may join or adhere the first and second lattice layers together. The window glazing elements 15 are located in lattice apertures 13a/b and may be held in place by a putty, adhesive or other suitable system. A method of forming a lattice window frame by providing the first and second latticed layer and a thermally insulating material therebetween is also claimed. The system may be used in the renovation of an old house having single glazed lead frames to provide double glazing (or triple glazing etc.).

Description

Application No. GB1402663.7 RTM Date:21 August 2014 The following terms are registered trade marks and should be read as such wherever they occur in this document:

VUB

Perspex

LATTICED FRAME FOR A WINDOW

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a latticed frame for a window; in particular, to a thermally insulated latticed frame for housing a plurality of window elements, so as to provide effective thermal insulation across an entire window structure while still maintaining an appearance of a latticed window such as that found in leaded light or cast casement windows.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

For economic and environmental reasons, it is desirable to retain as much heat inside a property or dwelling as possible. When windows are fitted to a property, a significant amount of heat can be lost from the property to the outside due to the comparatively poor level of thermal insulation of the transparent material used within the window as compared to the thermal insulation of the walls.

The standard method well recognised in the art is to provide thermal insulation layers inside the window. For example, one may employ double-glazing', where a double-glazed window is formed from two sheets of glass with a layer of air arranged between to act as a thermal barrier. Triple glazing may also be provided, where three layers of glass are provided with two layers of air to act as two thermal barriers.

The method of achieving double glazing of a window is to mount each layer of glass within a casement or frame, where each pane of glass fits the dimensions of the frame. However, there are situations where single sheets of glass that entirely fill a casement or frame are either undesirable or not possible. For example, the outward appearance of listed buildings must be maintained at a specific standard.

Because the outward appearance of a building can include the outward appearance of the windows of the building, the installation of double glazed windows may be restricted or forbidden entirely. This is particularly the case when a building has leaded lights installed. Leaded lights are constructed from the assembly of a number of individual pieces of glass installed within a framework of lead divider bars (also referred to as cames'). The framework is arranged in a lattice structure that may be simple in design (e.g. a grid or diamond-like arrangement) or be a complex design made up of different shapes and patterns.

Traditional leaded lights typically have poor thermal insulation that leads to significant heat loss and the potential build-up of condensation during the winter months. However, the regulations for listed buildings generally override other economic and environmental concerns, including those set out in current building regulations (such in regard to Part L" thermal requirements of the Building Regulations for the UK) that building owners normally have to follow.

The owners of listed buildings therefore have the problem that traditional leaded lights have poor thermal insulation, but replacing the leaded lights with a single piece of glass (for example, a standard double-glazed window) would not be in compliance with listed building regulations, as it would unallowably alter the outward appearance of the building.

One approach is to provide a double glazed window and provide a leaded light assembly in addition to the double glazed window. This may for example include simply gluing a lead framework on top of one of the panes of glass provided in the double glazing assembly. Alternatively, as disclosed in GB 1147030, one may attach a lead lighting framework, consisting assembled leaded strips and individual panes of glass, either on top of the glass panes of the double glazing window or in the space between glass panes of the double glazing window. However, these assemblies may be aesthetically displeasing, and may not comply with some listed building requirements.

Another option is to install an internal secondary glazing panel in combination with the original leaded light, typically a single sheet of glass or Perspex mounted behind the leaded light framework, to fit the entire window frame. However, this arrangement generally leads to a window design that is aesthetically unpleasing and ungainly.

The present invention seeks to provide an alternative means to provide a frame for a window that retains the appearance of windows such as cast casements or leaded lights but still provides a level of thermal insulation.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a layered latticed frame for a window, the layered latticed frame being formed with a plurality of apertures for receiving or housing a respective plurality of window elements, the layered latticed frame comprising a first latticed frame layer, a second latticed frame layer, and a thermally insulating material arranged between the first and second latticed frame layers. In essence, there is provided a window in two halves, with a thermal barrier arranged between the two halves.

Advantageously, the thermally insulating material separates the first latticed frame layer from the second latticed frame layer.

Advantageously, the first latticed frame layer is joined to the second latticed frame layer by the thermally insulating material.

Advantageously, the thermally insulating material comprises non-porous material, such as a closed-cell foam.

Advantageously, the thermally insulating material comprises insulating tape.

Advantageously, wherein the thermally insulating material is of a thickness between the first latticed frame layer and second lattice frame layer, the thickness being less than 4mm. In providing a thickness of thermally insulating material below this value, the shear movement of the first latticed frame layer and second latticed frame layer may be sufficiently restricted such that the assembly of the latticed frame layers can form a single, rigid unit. In a further advantageous embodiment, the thickness of the thermally insulating material between the first latticed frame layer and second latticed frame layer is between 2mm and 4mm. In having a thickness between these two values, a balance may be obtained between a thickness of material required to provide a useful thermal barrier while still retaining rigidity in the structure.

Advantageously, a portion of the first latticed frame layer extends beyond the second lattice framed layer such that each of the plurality of apertures comprises a seating portion. In providing this seat, principles of manufacture of a window using the layered latticed frame are simplified, as each window element can be readily and easily mounted to rest on the seat.

In a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a window comprising the layered latticed frame of any embodiment provided above, and a plurality of window elements mounted within the plurality of apertures of the layered latticed frame. Advantageously, the window elements are multiple-glazed window elements, such as double-glazed or triple-glazed window elements. Consequently, the window comprises a thermal barrier by virtue of being formed of a frame comprising a thermal barrier and a plurality of thermally-insulated window elements.

In a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of forming a layered lattice frame for a window, the method comprising: providing a first latticed frame layer, providing a second latticed frame layer on top of the first latticed frame layer so as to form the layered latticed frame, the layered latticed frame comprising a plurality of apertures for housing of a respective plurality of window elements; and providing a thermally insulating material between the first latticed frame layer and second latticed frame layer. The term "on top of" is intended to cover positioning the first and second latticed frame layers over or against one another so that they are overlaid, and this may be performed with the latticed frame io layers in any suitable orientation, including horizontal or vertical, for example.

Advantageously, the thermally insulating material is provided between the first latticed frame layer and second latticed frame layer so as to separate the first and second latticed frame layers.

Advantageously, the thermally insulating material is provided between the first s latticed frame layer and second latticed frame layer so as to attach the first latticed frame layer to the second latticed frame layers.

Advantageously, the provided thermally insulating material comprises non-porous material, such as a closed-cell foam.

Advantageously, the provided thermally insulating material comprises insulating tape.

Advantageously, the provided thermally insulating material is of a thickness between the first latticed frame layer and second lattice frame layer, the thickness being less than 4mm. In a further advantageous embodiment, the thickness of the provided thermally insulating material between the first latticed frame layer and second latticed frame layer is between 2mm and 4mm.

Advantageously, the step of providing the first and second latticed frame layer comprises casting or welding.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the method comprises housing a plurality of window elements in the apertures of the layered latticed frame.

Optionally, the window elements are multiple glazed window elements.

Certain terms and words have been used in the detailed description below to best describe the embodiments of the invention provided. It is to be understood that some of these words may be understood to relate to a specific meaning within different fields of the art. For the avoidance of doubt, it is to be clear that the terms lattice', and latticed' relate to a construction of a plurality of strips or members that are interlaced to form a network or web of interwoven bars or the like, where that arrangement is not necessarily regular, but designed to form a plurality of apertures between the strips. The term frame', is not to be restricted to be the outside casing of an entire window, but may include aspects of a window housing that is configured to receive and house multiple window elements within.

The language is not limited to the manner in which the window is opened or arranged relative to a building. The language used is to describe the arrangement of the framework, lattice or network of strips or similar used to house window elements both prior to and after assembly of a final window unit, be it either inside a suitable receptacle in a building or as a separate unit, e.g. in preparation for assembly.

Reference herein is additionally made to glazing' elements. It is to be understood that this is not intended to limit in any way to glass elements, and is intended to relate language that conveys an element suitable to be used for a window element. This may be, for example, non-glass material such as Perspex, or partially translucent or opaque window elements. One may readily understand a window element to be an element that individually comprises properties of a window (e.g. permits the passage of light to some degree) that can be used for housing inside a larger structure to form a larger window.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1A is a perspective view of a leaded light window, being an example of

the prior art.

Figure 1 B is a cross-sectional view of the leaded light window of Figure 1 A. Figure 2 shows an embodiment of the present invention, in the form of a deconstructed perspective view of a layered latticed frame for a window.

Figure 3 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the present invention of Figure 2, where the layers have been assembled with window elements.

Figure 4A shows a rectangular latticed frame in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 4B shows a diamond latticed frame in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Figures 1 A and 1 B show a leaded light window 1, well understood by those skilled in the art. The leaded light window comprises a lead framework 2, the framework provided as a lattice. The latticed framework of Figure 1 A is formed by arranging a grid of lead strips (or cames') at right angles, but it is well understood that lattices of both regular and irregular shapes may be formed, where the lattice may or may not have rotational symmetry within the plane of the latticed framework.

io The lead strips are formed so as to be suitable for housing window elements, such as glass sheets.

Figure 1 B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the leaded light window 1. The lead strips are provided with an H' cross-section with lateral openings, where the glass sheets 3 are configured to be arranged within the lateral openings in each lead strip. A plurality of single-paned glass sheets is installed inside the lead frame so as to form a window, for example for placement inside the wall of a house or dwelling.

In the arrangement illustrated, heat may be lost by conduction across the single glass sheets and through the leaded framework.

Figure 2 shows a layered latticed frame 11 for a window in accordance with the present invention, in which thermal insulation of a window may be provided.

Embodiments may therefore provide windows with improved thermal characteristics while still satisfying design requirements of listed building regulations. The layered latticed frame 11 is formed with a plurality of apertures 13 for housing of a respective plurality of window elements 15. The layered latticed frame 11 is configured to receive the plurality of window elements 15 and house or otherwise retain them within the structure. The window elements may be retained inside the structure by suitable male-female mating or through suitable adhesive applied to areas of contact between the window elements and layered latticed frame 11.

The layered latticed frame 11 comprises a first latticed frame layer 11 a. The first latticed frame layer 11 a comprises a plurality of latticed, or interlaced, strips or members. The plurality of strips may be joined together by means of welding or other attachment so as to lattice the strips together into a single latticed piece to form a plurality of first apertures 1 3a enclosed by the latticed strips. Alternatively, the latticed frame layer 1 la may be formed as a single piece, for example through casting techniques such as sand casting. In the illustrated embodiment, the first latticed frame layer ha is provided as a grid of linear strips arranged at right angles to create substantially rectangular apertures within the lattice. A top-down perspective view of this grid-type lattice is illustrated in Figure 4A. Nevertheless, it is to be understood that the strips of first latticed frame layer 11 a may be latticed or interlaced to provide other lattice patterns. For example, the first latticed frame layer 11 a may be provided by a grid of linear strips aligned at acute or obtuse angles to form diamond shaped apertures with the lattice, as shown in Figure 4B, or may be ic provided as a grid of non-linear strips to form a series of irregular shaped apertures.

The layered latticed frame 11 further comprises a second latticed frame layer 11 b. The second latticed frame layer 11 b comprises a plurality of latticed, or interlaced, strips or members in a manner substantially similar to that described above with respect to the first latticed frame layer 11 a, to form a plurality of second s apertures 13b enclosed by the latticed strips. The second latticed frame layer 11 b may comprise strips latticed, either through joining of strips or by forming as a single piece, to form a lattice with a pattern and/or dimensions different to that of the first latticed frame layer 1 la. In particular, the length and depth of each strip of the second latticed frame layer 11 b may be different from those of the strips of first latticed frame layer ha, but still have substantially similar lattice pattern, where the lattice pattern of the first latticed frame layer 11 a corresponds to the lattice pattern of the second latticed frame layer 11 b. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second latticed frame layers are both provided as a grid, but with the second latticed frame layer 11 b comprising strips smaller in width but greater in height as compared to the strips of the first latticed frame layer 11 a.

In the illustrated embodiment, the latticed frame layers are configured such that the second latticed frame layer 11 b may be provided on top of the first latticed frame layer 11 a such that the lattice patterns of the two latticed frame layers may be aligned in a corresponding fashion so as to form part of the layered latticed frame 11 for a window of the present invention. In particular, the latticed frame layers are configured to be aligned such that first apertures 1 3a align with the plurality of second apertures 1 3b to form the plurality of apertures 13 of the layered latticed frame 11. The apertures may be considered enclosures or openings within the frame, and the embodiments discussed herein do not preclude the possibility of one or more apertures within the layered lattice frame 11 or latticed frame layers not being fully enclosed by aspects of the surrounding framework.

The layered latticed frame 11 further comprises a thermally insulating material 17 arranged between the first and second latticed frame layers. By providing the thermally insulating material 17 between the first and second latticed frame layers, a thermal barrier or thermal break' is provided between the first and second latticed frame layers so as to create a thermal insulation of the first latticed frame layer 11 a from the second latticed frame layer 11 b. The layered lattice frame 11 is assembled io from the first latticed frame layer 11 a, the thermally insulating material 17 and the second latticed frame layer 11 b. This assembly is performed in a manner to reduce thermal conduction between the first latticed frame layer 11 a and second latticed frame layer 11 b.

The layered latticed frame 11 may be formed with additional elements to s facilitate its use as a window such as hinges or other attachment joints, as will be understood.

Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the layered latticed frame 11 assembled from the first latticed frame layer 11 a, the thermally insulating material 17 and the second latticed frame layer 11 b. Thermally insulating material 17 is provided between each strip of the first latticed frame layer 11 a and each respective strip of the second latticed frame layer 11 b. For example, in Figure 3 thermally insulating material is illustrated as being provided between a first strip 14a of the first latticed frame layer 11 a and a first strip 1 6a of the second latticed frame layer 11 b.

Insulating material is also provided between a second strip 14b of the first latticed frame layer ha and a second strip 16b of the second latticed frame layer lib.

Advantageously, the thermally insulating material 17 separates the first latticed frame layer 11 a from the second latticed frame layer 11 b, such that the first latticed frame layer 11 a is not in direct contact with the second latticed frame layer 11 b.

Consequently any path, for example a path of heat conduction, between the first latticed frame layer 11 a and the second latticed frame layer 11 b includes a thermal barrier. In the illustrated embodiments of the present invention, this thermal barrier results from the arrangement of thermally insulating material, but a thermal barrier may also be provided from simply a gap between the two layers. That is, in some embodiments, the thermally insulating material 17 may be provided between selected portions of the first and second latticed frame layers only.

The thermally insulating material 17 may be provided as a plurality of individual pieces of material that may be arranged between the first and second latticed frame layers (e.g. portions of material at the corners, or junctions, of the lattice structures of the first and second latticed frame layers). Advantageously, and as illustrated in Figure 2, the thermally insulating layer 17 is itself latticed, being provided in a pattern that substantially corresponds to the pattern of the first and second latticed frame layers. In this embodiment, the thermally insulating material 17 comprises a plurality of apertures that, when the thermally insulating material 17 is provided in-between the first and second latticed frame layers, are aligned with the first plurality of apertures 1 3a and the second plurality of apertures 1 3b. In this manner, each plurality of apertures of the first latticed frame layer 11 a, second latticed frame layer 11 b and the thermally insulating material 17 are respectively co-aligned, or in registration, to form a single plurality of apertures 13 of the layered latticed frame 11.

Advantageously, the first latticed frame layer 11 a is joined to the second latticed frame layer 11 b by the thermally insulating material 17. In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 2 and Figure 3, the layered latticed frame is an assembly of the first latticed frame layer 11 a and the second latticed frame layer 11 b, where the thermally insulating material 17 is provided to join, attach, fix or adhere the first and second latticed frame layers together, as opposed to the thermally insulating material 17 merely being located in-between the first and second latticed frame layers and the first and second latticed frame layers are attached by other means (e.g. being placed into a frame and clamped together or by means of an adhesive material separate from the thermally insulating material 17). The thermally insulating material 17 may comprise an adhesive; an example may be a material with thermally insulating properties that is coated with an adhesive, or a material with both thermally insulating properties and adhesive properties, such as 3MTM VHBTM tape.

Preferably, the joining of the first and second latticed frame layers to complete the layered lattice frame 11 is by means of the thermally insulating material 17 only. In this embodiment, the complete layered lattice frame 11 is sufficiently rigid to be considered a single unit and no additional fastening means or methods are required.

In particular, when the layered latticed frame 11 is sufficiently rigid, shear movement of the first latticed frame layer 11 a relative to the second latticed frame layer 11 b is substantially restricted. In a further advantageous embodiment, the thermally insulating material 17 comprises thermally insulating tape. The thermally insulating tape may also be a closed-cell foam thermally insulating tape. The thermally insulating tape may have adhesive on either or both surfaces of the tape for attachment to one or both of the latticed frame layers. One example of such a thermally insulating tape may be SMTM VHBTM tape (3M Very High Bond, a 2.3mm thick Acrylic closed cell double sided tape product no 3MVH6499119162).

Advantageously, the thermally insulating material 17 comprises non-porous material or material that is otherwise substantially resistant to absorption or ingress of water or moisture.

Advantageously, the thermally insulating material 17 is of a thickness between the first latticed frame layer 11 a and second lattice frame layer 11 b, the thickness being less than 4mm. Increasing the thickness of the thermally insulating materiall7 will result in a greater volume of thermally insulating material between the first and second latticed frame layers. However, for some thermally insulating materials (e.g. the 3MTM VHBTM tape) if an amount of thermally insulating material 17 is provided that has too large a thickness between the first and second latticed frame layers, this may lead to a reduction in rigidity of the complete layered latticed frame 11. In particular, this may result in shear movement of the first and second latticed frame layers relative to one another becoming possible. In providing a thickness of thermal insulating material less than 4mm, the complete layered latticed frame is sufficiently rigid to be considered a single unit or structure with shear movement of latticed frame layers being substantially restricted or prevented entirely. This advantageous embodiment relates to the use of particular thermally insulating materials where an increase in thickness may lead to a loss of rigidity, but it is to be understood that in some embodiments of layered latticed frame 11, suitable thermally insulating materials may be provided with a thickness greater than 4mm without significant loss of rigidity of the complete layered latticed frame 11. Notably, it is to be understood that a specific thickness of thermally insulating material is not a requirement for rigidity of all embodiments of the complete layered latticed frame 11, but rather an advantageous embodiment where rigidity is increased or assured.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the thickness of the thermally insulating material 17 between the first latticed frame layer and second latticed frame layer is between 2mm and 4mm. As described above, for some thermally insulating materials, decreasing the thickness of thermally insulating material 17 may result in increased rigidity of the complete layered frame lattice 11, but if the amount of material is too little then the thermally isolating properties are diminished to result in a less efficient thermal barrier. Providing a thickness greater than 2mm but less than 4mm has been found to result in an effective thermal barrier, but still restricting shear movement to a level such that the assembled layered latticed frame 11 is a single structure or unit. As described above, it is to be understood that a thickness less than 4mm is not required for rigidity of the complete layered latticed frame 11, nor is a thickness greater than 2mm required for provision of a thermal barrier within the complete layered lattice frame 11; these thicknesses are provided as advantageous embodiments to provide for optimum values of balance between rigidity and thermal insulation.

Advantageously, a portion of the first latticed frame layer 11 a extends beyond the second lattice framed layer 11 b such that each of the plurality of apertures 13 comprises a seating portion 12. In the illustrated embodiments of Figures 2 and 3, the strips of the first lattice frame layer ha and the strips of the second latticed frame layer 11 b differ in width dimensions such that when the second latticed frame layer 11 b is placed on top of the first latticed frame layer 11 a, the strips of the first latticed frame layer 11 a do not fully cover the strips of the second latticed frame layer 11 b. Adjacent to each strip of the second latticed frame layer 11 b is an exposed portion of the second latticed frame layer 11 b, the exposed portion forming a seat 12. In this embodiment, within each of the plurality of apertures 13 is formed a respective plurality of seats 12, each seat running the circumference of the aperture.

Each aperture 13 is then configured to receive a window element 15 such that the window element rests on the seat 12. It is to be clear that the layered latticed frame 11 has shapes and configurations suitable for housing a variety of shapes and sizes of window elements 15.

In a further embodiment of the invention, there is provided a window comprising the layered latticed frame 11 as described above and a plurality of window elements 15 mounted within the plurality of apertures 13 of the layered latticed frame 11. Figure 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an assembled window. In this illustrated embodiment, the window element 15 is a double glazed element, comprising a first glazing element 1 5a, a second glazing element 1 5b and a seal material 19. The assembled window element 15 is provided within the layered latticed frame 11 so that the first glazing element 1 Sa rests on the seat 12 of the aperture 13. The seal material 19 is provided around the edges of the first glazing element 1 Sa, and the second glazing element 1 Sb is provided on top of the seal material 19 to create a double-glazed window element, as will be understood. While the illustrated embodiment is provided with respect to the window element 15 being double glazed, it is to be understand that in alternative embodiments, the window elements 15 are multiple glazed window elements (e.g. double or triple glazed) or the window elements may be single glazed (i.e. a single piece of glass or other material). It is to be further understood that while the language glazing' and glazed' has been used with respect to the window elements 15, it is to be understood that the window elements 15 are not restricted to glass (e.g. they may be Perspex) and the window elements 15 may equally be translucent or partially opaque (e.g. frosted glass or patterned glass such as those used in bathrooms).

The window elements 15 may be held in place with suitable attachment means arranged between each of the plurality of window elements 15 and the layered latticed frame 11 configured for housing or otherwise retaining the window elements 15. In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 3, putty 21 is provided on the edges of the top, exposed surface 20 of the second glazing element 1 Sb, being the outer circumference (perimeter or edge) of the top surface 20 of the second glazing element 1 Sb, where the second glazing element 1 Sb touches the strips of the second latticed frame layer lib (e.g. the first strip 16a and second strip 16b). The plurality of window elements 15 are then housed or retained in the respective plurality of apertures 13 by being fixed or held in place between the seat 12 provided on the first latticed frame layer ha and the putty 21 provided at the abutment of the second glazing element 1 Sb and the second latticed frame layer 11 b. While the illustrated embodiments are provided with respect to a specific arrangement of putty and seating, it is to be understood that other suitable means (e.g. adhesives and/or sealants) may be employed to provide and house a plurality of window elements 15 within the layered latticed frame 11 of the present invention.

Preferably, the depth or thickness of the second latticed frame layer 11 b is such that the thickness is set for the thickness of window elements 15 to be used. In particular, the thickness in this embodiment is sufficient to allow for each window element to be fitted and to receive enough retaining putty to hold the window element in place. For example, in one embodiment of the layered latticed frame 11, the second latticed frame layer 11 b is deep enough to accept a 10mm double glazed insert (e.g. a double-glazed window element 15) and allow for 5 -6 mm of putty 21 for retaining the window elements within the apertures 13. The first latticed frame layer 11 a would then be formed to be 14mm in thickness such that with 2mm of thermally insulating tape, a window assembled from the layered latticed frame 11 and plurality of window elements would be under 35mm in thickness.

Another embodiment of the present invention is provided with respect to Figure 4A, which illustrates the first and second latticed frame layers for a grid-like lattice pattern. In this illustrated embodiment, the first latticed frame layer ha is dimensioned to have a lattice pattern that corresponds to the second latticed frame layer 11 b. The outer frame of the first latticed frame layer 11 a has a frame length 33 of approximately 876 mm and a frame width 34 of approximately 419 mm, a first frame strip width 35 of approximately 20mm and a first frame strip depth of approximately 15mm. The inner latticed component of the first latticed frame layer 11 a has a first inner lattice strip width 36 of approximately 15mm and a first inner lattice strip depth of approximately 15mm. In this same illustrated embodiment, the outer frame of the second latticed frame layer 11 a has the same frame length 33 of approximately 876 mm and the same frame width 34 of approximately 419 mm, but a second frame strip width 37 of approximately 15mm and a second frame strip depth of approximately 18mm. The inner latticed component of the second latticed frame layer 11 b has a second inner lattice strip width 38 of approximately 5mm and a second inner lattice strip depth of approximately 18mm. Both first and second latticed frame layers are formed such that the inner lattice components are equally spaced, with lengths 32 of approximately 213mm and widths 31 of approximately 130mm.

Another embodiment of the present invention is provided with respect to Figure 4B, which illustrates the first and second latticed frame layers for a diamond-like lattice pattern. In this illustrated embodiment, the first latticed frame layer 1 la is dimensioned to have a lattice pattern that corresponds to the second latticed frame layer 11 b. The outer frame of the first latticed frame layer 11 a has a frame length 33 of approximately 876 mm and a frame width 34 of approximately 419 mm, a first frame strip width 35 of approximately 20mm and a first frame strip depth of approximately 15mm. The inner latticed component of the first latticed frame layer 11 a has a first inner lattice strip width 36 of approximately 15mm and a first inner lattice strip depth of approximately 15mm. In this same illustrated embodiment, the outer frame of the second latticed frame layer 11 a has the same frame length 33 of approximately 876 mm and the same frame width 34 of approximately 419 mm, but a second frame strip width 37 of approximately 15mm and a second frame strip depth of approximately 18mm. The inner latticed component of the second latticed frame layer 11 b has a second inner lattice strip width 38 of approximately 5mm and a second inner lattice strip depth of approximately 18mm. Both first and second latticed frame layers are formed such that the inner lattice components are equally spaced, with lengths 32 of approximately 213mm and widths 31 of approximately 130mm.

The assembled layered lattice frame 11, when fitted with the multiple glazed window elements 15, forms a window in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The window is thus constructed from a thermally insulated frame with a plurality of individual thermally-insulated glazing elements as opposed to a conventional single thermally-insulated glazing element (e.g. double-glazing) fitted to the entire frame. This window is suitable to be fitted in a property or dwelling, where that window provides a thermal break or thermal barrier between an inside and an outside (which may be, for example, the inside of the building or the outside of the building).

In another advantageous embodiment, the second latticed frame layer 11 b of the layered latticed frame 11 may be formed from a material that is itself a thermally insulating material, and the first latticed frame layer 11 a of the layered latticed frame 11 is formed from a metal or metallic alloy, such as aluminium [Ml 0. In this advantageous embodiment, when the frame is provided as a window, the second latticed frame layer 11 b, formed of thermally insulating material, may be provided on the outside of a property or dwelling, whereas the first latticed frame layer 11 a, formed of metal or metallic alloy, may be provided on the inside of the property or dwelling; such an arrangement would still retain the appearance of a leaded light or cast casement window.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, there is described a method of forming a layered lattice frame 11 for a window. The method comprises providing a first latticed frame layer 11 a. The first latticed frame layer 11 a is as described above in respect of Figure 2, where that first latticed frame layer 11 a is comprised of a plurality of strips joined together to form a lattice pattern that encloses or forms a first plurality of apertures 1 Sa. The method further comprises providing a second latticed frame layer 11 b on top of the first latticed frame layer so as to form the layered latticed frame. The second latticed frame layer 11 b is as described above in respect of Figure 2 and Figure 3, where that second latticed frame layer 11 b is comprised of a plurality of strips joined together to form a lattice pattern that encloses or forms a first plurality of apertures 1 3b. Optionally, the first latticed frame layer 11 a and the second latticed frame layer 11 b are provided with respect to the window assembly such that the first latticed frame layer 1 la is on the inside of the window, and is an inside latticed frame layer 11 b, and the second latticed frame layer 11 b is on the outside of the window and is an outside latticed frame layer ha. Accordingly, the first and second (or inside and outside) latticed frame layers may be cast, or otherwise manufactured, to provide different levels of detail on the surtace of each latticed frame layer. In particular, the inner latticed frame layer 11 a is provided with any fine detail that may be required, such as scalloped edges.

In providing the second latticed frame layer 11 b on top of the first latticed frame layer ha, an alignment of the two layers is provided such that the first plurality of apertures 13a and the second plurality of apertures 13b are respectively aligned (e.g. in a one-to-one relationship) such that the assembled layered latticed frame 11 comprises a plurality of apertures 13. The plurality of apertures 13 are configured to house of a respective plurality of window elements 15 in a manner as described above with respect to Figure 3.

It is to be understood that either or both of the steps of providing the first latticed frame layer 11 a and providing the second latticed frame layer 11 b may comprise steps of assembly of the latticed frame layers, such as welding constituent strips of material or casting part of or all of the latticed frame layer from metal or other suitable material. These methods of fabrication are not intended to be limiting, and multiple construction methods may be used to create the latticed frame layers for the layered latticed frame 11. Advantageously, the latticed frame layers described above may be formed of metal or metallic alloy. In one exemplary embodiment, each latticed frame layer is formed from aluminium LM1 0.

The method further comprises providing a thermally insulating material 17 between the first latticed frame layer 11 a and second latticed frame layer 11 b. In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 1, the thermally insulating material 17 is provided on the first latticed frame layer 11 a prior to the second latticed frame layer 1 3b being provided on top of the first latticed frame layer 11 a. Alternatively, the thermally insulating material may be provided on the underside of the second latticed frame layer 11 b, or may be provided between the two layers in any suitable configuration.

In an advantageous embodiment, the thermally insulating material is provided between the first latticed frame layer and second latticed frame layer so as to s separate the first and second latticed frame layers. In this advantageous embodiment, the two latticed frame layers do not come into contact with each other except by virtue of the thermally insulating material 17. Thus a thermal barrier is provided between the two latticed frame layers, either through insulation provided by the thermally insulating material or through a gap, absent of any material, provided between the layers.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the thermally insulating material 17 is provided between the first latticed frame layer 11 a and second latticed frame layer 11 b so as to attach the first latticed frame layer to the second latticed frame layers.

In this advantageous embodiment, by providing the second latticed frame layer 11 b on top of the first latticed frame layer ha, the two layers become attached by virtue or means of the thermally insulating layer 17. Advantageously, there is no other method of attachment between the two layers. It is to be understood that the method of constructing the layered latticed frame 11 from the first latticed frame layer 11 a, the second latticed frame layer 11 b and the thermally insulating material may be performed in any order that facilitates the joining of the component pieces together (e.g. the thermally insulating material 17 may first be attached to the second latticed frame layer 11 a or the first latticed frame layer 11 a). The principle of operation of the thermally insulating material 17 to allow attachment (i.e. the adhesive nature of the thermally insulating material 17) may result from the material that the thermally insulating material is comprised. For example, the provided thermally insulating material 17 comprises thermally insulating tape, or may comprise adhesive provided on the surfaces of the thermally insulating material 17.

The dimensions and properties of the thermally insulating material are preferably as provided above with respect to Figure 2 and Figure 3. It is to be understood that the method of assembly or fabrication of the latticed window frame 11 may comprise laying down thermally insulating material 17 of advantageous thicknesses, and measuring and confirming the thicknesses of the thermally io insulating material 17 to ensure that the thermally insulating material is within the specified values.

After the second lafticed frame layer 11 b is provided with respect to the first latticed frame layer 1 la such as to assemble a single layered latticed frame structure 11, additional method steps may be employed to ensure a more robust, aesthetically s pleasing and durable window. For example, excess thermally insulating material 17 that extends or protrudes beyond the second latticed frame layer 11 b (e.g. onto part of the seat 12 provided on the first latticed frame layer 11 a) may be trimmed back and removed. Additionally, the assembled layered latticed frame 11 may be painted prior to glazing of the window (i.e. inserting window elements into the apertures 13).

This may, for example, ensure that the entirety of the structure is painted to prevent rusting or other water damage. This would be opposed to painting it after assembly, in which case certain parts of the structure may be left exposed underneath other elements (e.g. underneath the putty), although in some embodiments, this may be

acceptable.

In a further embodiment, the method may further comprise housing a plurality of window elements in the apertures of the layered latticed frame. The plurality of window elements are placed in the plurality of apertures provided in the layered latticed frame 11. This embodiment may comprise housing, mounting or otherwise providing a single window element in a single aperture 13 to produce a window comprising a plurality of single-glazed window elements. Alternatively, this embodiment may comprise stacking a plurality of single-glazed window elements in each layered latticed frame aperture 13 such that the window elements 15 provided within each aperture are multiple glazed window elements 15, wherein each single-glazed window element provided on top of one another with a sealing layer 19 provided between each single-glazed layer as described above with respect to Figure 3. The multiple glazed window elements may also be provided as pre-assembled units, which may simply be installed in each respective aperture/opening 13 and then fixed in place, as appropriate.

Although preferred embodiments of the invention have been described, it is to be understood that these are by way of example only and that various modifications may be contemplated.

For example, the first and second latticed frame layers may in some embodiments match up with each other identically when assembled together (i.e. providing no seat). The window elements may then be installed and held in place with suitable adhesive and/or sealants without a seating mechanism.

Furthermore, while the above embodiments relate to generally planar frames, other embodiments have a curved, or non-planar, layered latticed frame. Here, the s first and second latticed frame layers may be in the form of concentric arcs or curves, or parallel curves, such as curved layers having a fixed tangential offset or separation from each other.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A layered latticed frame for a window, the layered latticed frame being formed with a plurality of apertures for housing a respective plurality of window elements, the layered latticed frame comprising: a first latticed frame layer; a second latticed frame layer; and a thermally insulating material arranged between the first and second latticed frame layers.
2. The layered latticed frame of claim 1, wherein the thermally insulating material separates the first latticed frame layer from the second latticed frame layer.
3. The layered latticed frame of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first latticed frame layer is joined to the second latticed frame layer by the thermally insulating material.
4. The layered latticed frame of any preceding claim, wherein the thermally insulating material comprises non-porous material.
5. The layered latticed frame of any preceding claim, wherein the thermally insulating material comprises thermally insulating tape.
6. The layered latticed frame of any preceding claim, wherein the thermally insulating material is of a thickness between the first latticed frame layer and second lattice frame layer, the thickness being less than 4mm.
7. The layered latticed frame of claim 6, wherein the thickness of the thermally insulating material between the first latticed frame layer and second latticed frame layer is between 2mm and 4mm.
8. The layered latticed frame of any preceding claim, wherein a portion of the first latticed frame layer extends beyond the second lattice framed layer such that each of the plurality of apertures comprises a seating portion.
9. A window comprising the layered latticed frame of any preceding claim and a plurality of window elements mounted within the plurality of apertures of the layered latticed frame.
10. The window of claim 9, wherein the window elements are multiple glazed window elements.
11. A method of forming a layered lattice frame for a window, the method comprising: providing a first latticed frame layer; providing a second latticed frame layer on top of the first latticed frame layer so as to form the layered latticed frame, the layered latticed frame comprising a plurality of apertures for housing a respective plurality of window elements; and providing a thermally insulating material between the first latticed frame layer and second latticed frame layer.
12. The method of claim 11, wherein the thermally insulating material is provided between the first latticed frame layer and second latticed frame layer so as to separate the first and second latticed frame layers.
13. The method of claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the thermally insulating material is provided between the first latticed frame layer and second latticed frame layer so as to attach the first latticed frame layer to the second latticed frame layers.
14. The method of any of claims 11 -13, wherein the provided thermally insulating material comprises non-porous material.
15. The method of any of claims 11 -14, wherein the provided thermally insulating material comprises thermally insulating tape.
16. The method of any of claims 11 -15, wherein the provided thermally insulating material is of a thickness between the first latticed frame layer and second lattice frame layer, the thickness being less than 4mm.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein the thickness of the provided thermally insulating material between the first latticed frame layer and second latticed frame layer is between 2mm and 4mm.
18. The method of any of claims 11 -17, wherein providing the first and second latticed frame layer comprises casting or welding.
19. The method of any of claims 11 -18, further comprising housing a plurality of window elements in the apertures of the layered latticed frame.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein the window elements are multiple glazed window elements.
21. A layered latticed frame substantially as herein described with reference to Figures 2, 3, 4A and 4B of the accompanying drawings.Amendments to the claims have been filed as followsCLAIMS1. A layered latticed frame for a window, the layered latticed frame being formed with a plurality of apertures for housing a respective plurality of window elements, the layered latticed frame comprising: a first latticed frame layer provided as a single latticed piece; a second latticed frame layer provided as a single latticed piece, wherein the second latticed frame layer is provided on top of the first latticed frame layer; and a thermally insulating material arranged between the first and second latticed frame layers, wherein the first latticed frame layer is joined to the second latticed frame layer by the thermally insulating material.2. The layered latticed frame of claim 1, wherein the thermally insulating material separates the first latticed frame layer from the second latticed frame layer. IC)3. The layered latticed frame of any preceding claim, wherein the thermally L.C) insulating material comprises non-porous material.4. The layered latticed frame of any preceding claim, wherein the thermally insulating material is thermally insulating tape.5. The layered latticed frame of any preceding claim, wherein the thermally insulating material is of a thickness between the first latticed frame layer and second lattice frame layer, the thickness being less than 4mm.6. The layered latticed frame of claim 5, wherein the thickness of the thermally insulating material between the first latticed frame layer and second latticed frame layer is between 2mm and 4mm.7. The layered latticed frame of any preceding claim, wherein the first latticed frame layer is joined to the second latticed frame layer by means of the thermally insulating material only.8. The layered latticed frame of any preceding claim, wherein a portion of the first latticed frame layer extends beyond the second lattice framed layer such that each of the plurality of apertures comprises a seating portion.9. A window comprising the layered latticed frame of any preceding claim and a plurality of window elements mounted within the plurality of apertures of the layered latticed frame.10. The window of claim 9, wherein the window elements are multiple glazed window elements.11. A method of forming a layered lattice frame for a window, the method comprising: providing a first latticed frame layer as a single latticed piece; LI') providing a second latticed frame layer as a single latticed piece; providing the second latticed frame layer on top of the first latticed frame layer so as to form the layered latticed frame, the layered latticed frame comprising a plurality of apertures for housing a respective plurality of window elements; and providing a thermally insulating material between the first latticed frame layer and second latticed frame layer so as to attach the first latticed frame layer to the second latticed frame layer.12. The method of claim 11, wherein the thermally insulating material is provided between the first latticed frame layer and second latticed frame layer so as to separate the first and second latticed frame layers.13. The method of claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the provided thermally insulating material comprises non-porous material.14. The method of any of claims 11 -13, wherein the provided thermally insulating material is thermally insulating tape.15. The method of any of claims 11 -14, wherein the provided thermally insulating material is of a thickness between the first latticed frame layer and second lattice frame layer, the thickness being less than 4mm.16. The method of claim 15, wherein the thickness of the provided thermally insulating material between the first latticed frame layer and second latticed frame layer is between 2mm and 4mm.17. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the first latticed frame layer is joined to the second latticed frame layer by means of the thermally insulating material only.18. The method of any of claims 11 -17, wherein providing the first and second latticed frame layer comprises casting or welding. IC)19. The method of any of claims 11 -18, further comprising housing a plurality of L.C) window elements in the apertures of the layered latticed frame.20. The method of claim 19, wherein the window elements are multiple glazed window elements.21. A layered latticed frame substantially as herein described with reference to Figures 2, 3, 4A and 4B of the accompanying drawings.