| CLAIMS 1. A method for installing a counter-frame (1) for door or window frames, the counter-frame (1) having two jambs (2) each extending vertically from a first end (3), in practice closest to the ground, to a second end (4) which is opposite the first end, and a crosspiece (5) which can be connected to the jambs (2) at the second end (4); each jamb (2) and the crosspiece (5) having an outer surface (6) and an inner surface (7) with reference to a counter-frame (1) transit opening; characterised in that it comprises the following steps- taking a supporting structure (42) comprising a supporting base (43) and supporting, means (44) which can rest on the ground and are connected to the supporting = base (43) for supporting the supporting base (43) at an adjustable distance from the ground; resting the supporting structure (42) on a portion of a building such as a floor slab (64) or a wall (8); ; · ·· adjusting the distance between the supporting base (43) and the portion of building on which it rests, using the supporting means (44) depending on the thickness of the wall structure to be created between the supporting base (43) and the ground; mounting the counter-frame (1) on the supporting structure (42) in such a way that the first ends (3) are associated with the supporting base (43); building a wall (8) around the counter-frame (1) in contact with each outer surface (6); fixing the outer surfaces to the wall (8) during construction of the latter; and removing the supporting structure (42). 2. The method for installing a counter-frame (1) for door or window frames according to claim 1 , characterised in that it comprises, once the counter-frame (1) has been mounted on the supporting structure (42) and before building the wall (8), a step of stabilising the counter- frame (1) to the ceiling (90) of the building using adjustable supporting rods (89) connected between each outer surface (6) of the jambs (2) and the ceiling (90); the rods being removed after the outer surfaces (6) have been fixed to the wall (8). 3. The method for installing a counter-frame (1) . for door; or window frames according to either of the foregoing claims, characterised in that it comprises, once the counter-frame (1) has been mounted on the supporting structure (42), a step of holding the counter-frame (1) jambs (2) in position using at least one spacing structure (79) connected between the inner surfaces of the jambs (2), thus keeping the jambs (2) horizontally spaced by the same distance from the first end to the second end (4); the spacing structure (79) being removed once the outer surfaces have been fixed to the wall (8). 4. The method for installing a counter-frame (1) for door or window frames according to any of the foregoing claims, characterised in that the crosspiece (5) is connected to the jambs (2), before the wall (8) is built, using constraining means (85) connected between the jamb (2) and the crosspiece (5); the constraining means (85) being removable after the wall (8) has been built around the counter-frame (1). 5. The method for installing a counter-frame (1) for door or window frames according to any of the foregoing claims, characterised in that the supporting means (44) comprise at least one foot (53) which can rest on the ground; the step of resting the supporting structure (42) on a portion of building comprising a sub-step of fixing each foot (53) to a board (113) and of resting the board (1 13) on the portion of building. 6. The method for installing a counter-frame (1) for door or window frames according to claim 5, characterised in that, after resting the board (113) on the portion of building, the board (113) is fixed to the portion of building. 7. A supporting structure (42) for installing counter-frames which can be used in the method according to claims 1 to 6, characterised in that it comprises a supporting base (43) and supporting means (44) which can rest on the ground and are connected to the supporting base (43) for supporting the supporting base (43) at an adjustable distance from the ground; the supporting means (44) comprising first height adjusting means (54) for varying the distance between the supporting base (43) and the ground. 8. The supporting structure (42) according to claim 7, characterised in that the supporting means (44) comprise four supporting feet (53), two associated with the supporting base (43), and fixable, on a portion of a building such as a floor slab (64) or a wall (8), using first fixing means (96). 9. The supporting structure (42) according to claim 7 or 8, characterised in that the supporting base (43) comprises at least two sections (45) and a connecting element (46) between the two sections (45); each first end (3) of a counter-frame (1) being associated with a section (45) of the supporting structure (42) when the counter-frame (1) is mounted on the supporting structure. 10. The supporting structure (42) according to claim 9, characterised in that the connecting element (46) between the two sections (45) comprises second adjusting means (71) for adjusting the distance between the two sections (45) depending on the dimensions of the counter-frame (1) to be installed. 11. The supporting structure (42) according to claim 9 or 10, characterised ; in that each section (45) comprises second fixing means (39) for connecting the supporting structure (42) to the counter-frame (1). 12. The supporting structure (42) according to any of the claims from 7- to 11 , characterised in that it also comprises a spacing structure (79) , having two connecting elements (80) which are connected to each other by an adjustable connecting structure (81); the spacing structure (79) being fixable between the inner surfaces (7) of the counter-frame (1) jambs (2) in such a way that the connecting elements (80) are each . in contact with the inner surface (7) of a jamb (2). : 13. The supporting structure (42) according to any of the claims from 7 to 12, characterised in that it also, comprises adjustable supporting rods (89) which can be connected between each outer surface (6) of the jambs (2) and the ceiling (90). 14. A counter-frame (1) for door or window frames which can be installed using the method according to claims 1 to 6, comprising two jambs (2) each extending vertically from a first end (3), in practice closest to the ground, to a second end (4) which is opposite the first end (3), and a crosspiece (5) which can be connected to the jambs (2) at the second ends (4); each jamb (2) and the crosspiece (5) having an outer surface (6) and an inner surface (7) with reference to a counter-frame (1) transit opening; the counter-frame (1) having, in practice, an outer side (9) and an inner side (10) relative to which door or window (12) transit through the transit opening occurs; characterised in that at least each jamb (2) comprises at least three components, from the inner surface (7) towards the outer surface, a covering panel (17), a layer of insulation (18) and a supporting board (19); said components being connected to each other so that as a whole they form a single part. 15. The counter-frame (1) for door or window frames according to claim 14, characterised in that each jamb (2) comprises at least one spacer element (25) connected at the first end (3) so as to form between it and at least one out of the covering panel (17), the layer of insulation (18) and the supporting board (19), an insertion area (26) for installing a doorsill (27) or a windowsill (28). 16. The counter-frame (1) for door or window frames according to claim 15, characterised in that the spacer element (25) comprises at least two portions positioned in such a way that they form an "L" shape; the first portion (29) being fixed to the outer surface (6) of each jamb (2) and the second portion (30) being perpendicular to the first portion (29) and towards the other jamb (2). 17. The counter-frame (1) for door or window frames according to any of the claims from 14 to 16, characterised in that it comprises a rabbet (33) at least along each jamb (2) for installing a door or window frame (34) . 18. The counter-frame (1) for door or window frames according to claim 17, characterised in that the side of the rabbet (33) is formed by the supporting board (19) and the front is formed by the covering panel (17) and the layer of insulation (18). 19. The counter-frame (1) for door or window frames: according to any of the claims from 14 to 18, characterised in that a plurality of tabs (36) for fixing the jambs (2) to the wall (8) is connected to the outer surface (6) of each jamb (2). . 20. The counter-frame (1) for door or window frames according to any of the claims from 14 to 19, characterised in that the crosspiece (5) is an arch (100). 21. The counter-frame (1) for door or window frames according to any of the claims from 14 to 19, characterised in that the crosspiece (5) is a box (13) having an inner housing (14) for a roller shutter; each jamb (2) comprising an unwinding track (21), on the covering panel (17), for unwinding the shutter in practice. 22. The counter-frame (1) for door or window frames according to claim 21 , characterised in that the box (13) comprises a plurality of individual elements (101) which can be connected to each other to form the box |
* * * DESCRIPTION
This invention relates to a method for installing a counter-frame for door or window frames, in particular, but not only for outdoor window or door frames.
A counter-frame is usually formed by two jambs each extending vertically from a first end, in practice closest to the ground, to a second end which is opposite the first end, and a crosspiece which can be connected to the jambs at the second ends; each jamb and the crosspiece having an outer surface and an inner surface with reference to a counter-frame transit opening (hole or gap). The doors or windows are usually installed on the inner surface of the counter-frame, in such a way that they are supported by the counter-frame. According to the prior art, counter-frames are installed during the operations for construction of a building. In particular, they are installed after construction of the floor slabs and walls of the building. Based on the construction plans, the walls are built leaving holes or gaps where the doors and windows must be located.
Usually, each counter-frame is installed in the respective hole or gap (according to the plans) in such a way that the outer surfaces of the counter-frame are in contact with the wall. For this to occur, adjustments are made so that the wall adheres to the outer surfaces of the counter- frame. For example, if the dimensions of the hole or gap created in the wall are greater than the dimensions of the counter-frame, then building materials must be added to fill the space between the counter-frame and the wall. If the opposite is true and by mistake the dimensions of the hole or gap are less than the dimensions of the counter-frame, operations for breaking the wall just built and adapting it to the dimensions of the counter-frame are carried out. The wall surrounding the counter-frame must be adjacent to the outer surfaces of the counter-frame.
The counter-frame must also be fixed to the wall which surrounds it. Therefore, the adjusting operations also comprise the insertion, in the spaces between the counter-frame and the wall, of retaining tabs which are fixed to the counter-frame and, after the adjustment operations, embedded in the wall with cement mortar.
Once the wall has been dealt with, the windowsills and doorsills must be fitted. The windowsills or doorsills, made of finished marble, must be protected until the doors or windows are installed, usually after a minimum of 3 - 4 months.
However, this prior art technology has several disadvantages. First, the adjusting operations are time-consuming. Second, position and/or size errors are common when making holes or gaps, therefore, these errors affect the position of the counter-frames. Moreover, there are often errors for square installation, both front and side, of the counter-frame relative to the ground.
In this situation the technical purpose which forms the basis of this invention is to provide a method for installing a counter-frame for door or window frames which overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages. In particular, the technical purpose of this invention is to provide a method which allows a reduction in the time necessary for installing a counter- frame for door or window frames, avoiding superfluous adjusting operations.
Another technical purpose of this invention is to provide a method which allows a reduction in the margins of error when installing counter-frames relative to what is around the counter-frames.
The technical purpose specified and the aims indicated are substantially achieved by a method as described in the appended claims.
Further features and the advantages of this invention are more apparent in the detailed description, with reference to the accompanying drawings which illustrate several preferred, non-limiting embodiments of a method for installing a counter-frame for door or window frames, in which:
- Figure 1 is an axonometric view of a first embodiment of a counter- frame mounted on a supporting structure;
- Figure 2 is an axonometric view of a first step of the method according to this invention;
- Figure 3 is an axonometric view of an alternative embodiment of the first embodiment of a counter-frame mounted on a supporting structure;
- Figure 4 is an axonometric view of a detail of the counter-frame of Figure 3.
- Figure 5 is an axonometric view of an alternative embodiment of the detail of Figure 4;
- Figure 6 is an exploded axonometric view of the detail of Figure 5 with some parts cut away to better illustrate others;
- Figure 7 is an axonometric view of a second step of the method according to this invention; - Figure 8 is an axonometric view of a third step of the method according to this invention;
- Figure 9 is an axonometric view of a fourth step of the method according to this invention;
- Figure 10 is an axonometric view of a fifth step of the method according to this invention;
- Figure 11 is an axonometric view of a second embodiment of a counter-frame mounted on a supporting structure;
r Figure 12 is an exploded axonometric view of the second embodiment of a counter-frame of Figure 11;
÷. Figure 13 is a front view of part of the second embodiment of a counter-frame of Figure 11 ;
- Figure 14 is an axonometric view of a third embodiment of a counter- frame mounted on a supporting structure;
- Figure 15 is an exploded axonometric view of the third embodiment of a counter-frame of Figure 14;
- Figure 16 is an axonometric view of a fourth embodiment of a counter-frame mounted on a supporting structure;
- Figure 17 is an exploded, axonometric view of part of the fourth embodiment of a counter-frame;
- Figure 18 is a front view of the first embodiment of a counter-frame fixed to the wall;
- Figure 19 is a front view of the third embodiment of a counter-frame fixed to the wall;
- Figure 20 is a cross-section according to the line XX - XX of Figure 18, of the first embodiment of a counter-frame; - Figure 21 shows the first embodiment of a counter-frame of Figure 20 with a door or window mounted in a first configuration;
- Figure 22 is a cross-section according to the line XXII — XXII of Figure 18, of the first embodiment of a counter-frame;
- Figure .23 is a cross-section according to the line XXIII— XXIII of Figure 19, of the third embodiment of a counter-frame.
With reference to the accompanying drawings the numeral 1 denotes as a whole a counter-frame for door or window frames in accordance with this invention.
The counter-frame 1 for door or window frame comprises two jambs 2 each extending vertically from a first end 3, in practice closest to the ground, to a second end 4 which is opposite the first end 3. The counter- frame 1 also comprises a crosspiece 5 which can be connected to the jambs 2 at the second end 4. Thus a counter-frame 1 framework is formed by the jambs 2 and the crosspiece 5. Each jamb 2 and the crosspiece 5 has an outer surface 6 and an inner surface 7 with reference to a counter- frame 1 transit opening (hole or gap). Therefore, as shown in the first embodiment in Figure 1 , the inner surfaces face towards the transit opening zone, whilst the outer surfaces face the outer wall 8. It is also possible to identify in the counter-frame 1 , relative to the transit opening, an outer side 9 and an inner side 10 relative to which door or window 12 transit occurs.
In a second embodiment of the counter-frame 1 illustrated in Figure 11 , the crosspiece 5 is an arch 100 which connects the two second ends 4 of the jambs 2. The arch 100 is preferably orientated in such a way that it forms a semi-circle with the centre between the arch 100 and the ground. In a third alternative embodiment of the counter-frame 1 for door or window frame illustrated in Figure 14, the crosspiece 5 is a box 13 mounted on the jambs 2 and comprises an inner housing 14 for a roller shutter. In the embodiment in Figure 15 the box 13 substantially has the shape of a parallelepiped with a mobile base called a mask 15 (in practice, this is the part of the box 13 facing the ground), and a covering structure 16 mounted on the mask 15.
Inside the box 13 there is the housing 14 for a shutter element such as a roller shutter or the like. The mask 15 is advantageously mobile, allowing it to be moved if necessary for maintenance work in the box 13 once the building has been finished.
In a fourth embodiment of the counter-frame the box 13 comprises a plurality of individual elements 101 which can be connected to each other to form the box 13. Preferably (as shown in Figures 16 and 17) in this fourth embodiment of the counter-frame 1 the box 13 is formed by six separate elements 101 : one upper element, one lower element, two lateral elements, one front element and one rear element. Therefore, it is possible to assemble the elements 101 in such a way as to form a hollow parallelepiped (the box 13) in which, in practice, a shutter element can be positioned (as already indicated). In this way, the elements 101 can advantageously be transported individually and assembled on site.
In accordance with this invention, each jamb 2 of the counter-frame comprises at least three components, from the inner surface 7 towards the outer surface: a covering panel 17, a layer of insulation 18 and a supporting board 19. Therefore, the inner surface 7 of each jamb 2 is formed by the covering panel 17, whilst the outer surface 6 of each jamb 2 is formed by the supporting board 19.
The covering panel 17 is preferably made of fibre cement or materials with similar technical characteristics (such as aluminium or sheet steel) and is preferably between 5 mm and 15 mm thick (measured transversally to the jambs 2). The layer of insulation 18 is preferably made of high density polystyrene and advantageously is between 20 mm and 80 mm thick (measured transversally to the jambs 2). The supporting board 19 is preferably made of phenolic multi-layer material and is between .10 mm and 30 mm thick (measured transversally to the jambs 2): These three components are connected to each other so that together they form a single part. They are glued to each other and pressed- in such a way that they remain fixed to each other.
In the first embodiment in Figure 1 the crosspiece 5 is preferably formed by the same three components which form each, jamb 2. In the second embodiment in Figure 11 the arch 100 is formed by the same components as the crosspiece 5 in the first embodiment, with , the exception of the supporting board 19 which is substituted with an outer covering 102. Moreover, as Figure 13 shows, the layer of insulation 18 consists of two sub-layers 103, 104 which are superposed one on top of the other along at least part of the arch 100. The presence of two insulating sub-layers 103, 104 facilitates creation of the arch 100 at the construction stage. Preferably, the first sub-layer 103 (closest to the inner surface 7) is a continuation of the layer of insulation 18 of each jamb 4, whilst the second sub-layer 104 is a continuation of the supporting board 19 of each jamb 4. Preferably, the two insulating sub-layers 103, 104 are made of polystyrene. Preferably, the first sub-layer 103 is between 22 mm and 37 mm thick, whilst the second sub-layer 104 is between 13 mm and 22 mm thick. In the preferred embodiment the covering panel 17 is made of fibre cement and is between 2 mm and 8 mm thick. The outer covering 102 is preferably made of sheet metal and is between 5 mm and 15 mm thick. As shown in the embodiment in Figure 11 , the outer covering 102 extends towards the ground and is connected to the outer surface 6 of each jamb ■ 2. The outer covering 102, the insulating sub-layers 103, 104 and the covering panel 17 are glued and pressed to each other.
In a -third embodiment of the counter-frame 1 , illustrated in Figure 23 (where the crosspiece 5 is the box 13 above the frame) the crosspiece 5 comprises the covering mask 15, but it does not comprise the layer of insulation 18 which in this ease is mounted inside the covering structure 13 and in contact with it. In this embodiment (Figure 23) the crosspiece does not need the supporting board 19, since the box 13 supports the crosspiece 5.
The embodiment in Figure 23 also, shows how each jamb 2 comprises an unwinding track 21 , connected to the covering panel 17 close to the outer side 9 of the counter-frame 1 , for guiding shutter unwinding. In particular, each unwinding tack 21 is fixed on the inner surface 7 of a jamb 2 and extends vertically from the box 13 as far as the first end 3 of the jamb 2. In Figure 23 the circle drawn with a dashed line 22 represents the dimensions of a shutter wound over itself about a winding axis 23 and which can be unwound (using control means not illustrated in the accompanying drawings) along the unwinding tracks 21. Close to the box 13, each track 21 comprises an inlet 24 for promoting shutter passage from the housing 14 to the unwinding tracks 21.
Advantageously, each jamb 2 also comprises at least one spacer element 25 connected at the first end 3 so as to form between it and at least one out of the covering panel 17, the layer of insulation 18 and the supporting board 19, an insertion area 26 for installing a doorsill 27 or a windowsill 28. In the preferred embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 , 14, 16, the spacer element 25 comprises two portions arranged in an "L" shape. The first . portion 29 is fixed to the outer surface 6 of each jamb 2 and the second portion 30 is perpendicular to the first portion 29 and towards the other jamb 2. Advantageously, the two second portions 30 are each positioned the same distance from the respective components (covering panel 17, layer of insulation 18 and supporting board 19) so that together, in practice, they form a horizontal supporting surface for the counter-frame 1 and for the doorsill 27 or the windowsill 28 to be installed. Therefore, the insertion area 26 is between the second portion 30 and at least one out of the covering panel 17, the layer of insulation 18 and the supporting board
Advantageously, first connecting means 31: allow each first portion 29 to be connected to the respective jamb 2. In the preferred embodiment the first connecting means 31 comprise a plurality of first holes 32 transversal to the jambs 2, which are made in the first portion 29, and a plurality of first screws which are inserted in the first holes 32 and screwed into the outer surface 6 of the respective jamb 2. In an embodiment not illustrated, each spacer element 25 may comprise two or more "L"-shaped elements, where each first portion 29 is always connected to the outer surface 6 of a jamb 2, whilst each second portion 30 always belongs to the supporting surface formed.
The counter-frame 1 for door or window frame also comprises a rabbet 33 at least along each jamb 2 for installation of a door or window 12. In the preferred embodiment illustrated in Figure 1 , the side of each rabbet 33 is formed by the supporting board 19 and the front by the covering panel 17 and the layer of insulation 18. Each rabbet 33 is preferably located close to the inner side 10 of the counter-frame 1 and allows the installation of seals (against water, air, wind, for heat and sound insulation) between the counter-frame 1 and the door or window 12. The door or window 12 comprises a supporting frame 34 and one or more sashes 35. The supporting frame 34 is fixed directly to the counter-frame 1 , whilst the sash 35 is rotatably mounted on the supporting frame 34 using hinges 105. In this way, the sash 35 can move from a closed position in which it closes the counter-frame 1 transit opening, and an open position in which the transit opening is open.
In the preferred embodiment in Figure 21 , the door or window 12 comprises two sashes 35, whilst the supporting frame 34 comprises one frame (fixed directly to the counter-frame 1) and one central support. The frame in turn comprises two stiles 106, each fixed to a jamb 2 at the rabbet 33. The central support is formed by an additional stile 107 extending between two opposite ends and fixed to the frame. The additional stile 107 is fixed in a central position relative to the transit opening. In Figure 21 the sashes 35 are in the closed position and resting on the central support. Advantageously, each stile 106 comprises an inner face 108, in practice facing towards the inner side 10, and an outer face 109, in practice facing towards the outer side 9. As shown in Figure 21 , the inner face 108 is advantageously formed by a first surface 110 substantially parallel with the inner face 108, by a second surface 111 transversal to the first surface 110, and by a third surface 112 substantially parallel with the first surface 110.
When the frame is installed on the counter-frame 1 , each stile 106 has the first surface 110 and the second surface 111 mounted on the rabbet 33 (fixed in place with screws or glue) and the third surface 112 resting on the wall 8. Each hinge 105 is fixed between the inner face 108 and the sash 35, having a first portion connected to the inner face 108 and a second portion connected to the sash 35. Moreover, the inner face 108 projects from the wall 8 (Figure 21).
In that way, by projecting from the wall 8, the inner face 108 allows the hinges 105 complete movement; bringing a sash 35 into a fully open position forming a straight angle relative to the sash 35 closed position. Connected on the outer surface 6 of each jamb 2 there is a plurality of tabs 36 for fixing the jambs 2 (and therefore the counter-frame 1) to the wall 8. Each tab 36 preferably extends between two opposite ends: a first, fixing end 37:, connected to the outer surface 6 of each jamb 2, and a second end 38 which can bend (advantageously by means of deformation). In the accompanying drawings, the first, fixing end 37 is closest to the first end 3 of a jamb 2 and is fixed to the jamb by second fixing means 39. The second fixing means 39 preferably comprise second holes 40 which are made in the tabs 36 and second screws (normal for wood) mounted in the second holes 40 and screwed directly into the respective jamb 2. Advantageously, in each first, fixing end 37 there are at least two consecutive holes 40 which are vertically spaced in such a way as to make the tab 36 stable and steady relative to the counter-frame 1.
The second end 38 which can bend is not fixed to the jamb 2, but is free and can advantageously be bent, in practice, towards the outer wall 8 and can be embedded in the wall 8 (during construction). In the preferred . embodiment illustrated in Figure 1 , each second end 38 which can bend comprises two retaining holes 41 so that, once the second end 38 which , can bend is embedded in the wall 8, the building materials used for the wall 8 (such as mortar, etc.) are also present in the retaining holes 41 , thus guaranteeing a greater grip to retain the counter-frame 1 connected to the wall 8 in this way.
The method, according to this invention, for installing the counter-frame 1 , as defined by what is described above, comprises first a first step (illustrated in Figure 2) of taking a supporting structure 42 comprising a supporting base 43 and supporting means 44 which can rest on the ground and are connected to the supporting base 43 for supporting the supporting base 43 at an adjustable distance from the ground.
In the preferred embodiment, the supporting base 43 comprises two sections 45 and a connecting element 46 between the two sections 45. In turn, each section 45 preferably comprises a first part 47 and a second part 48 which are connected to each other in an "L" shape, where in practice each second part is positioned substantially parallel with the ground, whilst each first part 47 is transversal to the second part 48 and towards the ground. Each section 45 extends between two end portions where the second part 48 advantageously comprises a supporting hole 49 associated with the supporting means 44.
In the preferred embodiment the supporting means 44 comprise four threaded rods 50 each extending vertically, in practice, between an upper end 51 and a lower end 52. The supporting means 44 also comprise a foot 53 connected to the lower end 52 of each rod 50 and, in practice, in contact with the ground.
There are preferably first adjusting means 54 associated with each rod 50, for adjusting the position relative to the supporting base 43.
The first adjusting means 54 comprise the thread of each rod 50, and at least one threaded element 55 screwed onto the rod 50 (two in the accompanying drawings). Each rod 50 is also inserted in a supporting hole 49. Therefore, by screwing the threaded elements 55 more or less onto the rod 50 it is possible to vary the distance between each section 45 and the ground. Advantageously, since each supporting hole 49 is located at an end part 56 of the section 45 it is possible, by adjusting each rod 50 independently relative to the respective hole 49, to set a predetermined angle between the section 45 and the ground. The threaded elements 55 may preferably be a nut 57 welded to the section 45 at the supporting holes 49 in such a way that each supporting hole 49 is a continuation of the threaded hole of the respective nut 57, and a nut 58 mounted on the rod 50 to lock it in position.
At the upper end 51 , each rod 50 may preferably comprise (as in the accompanying drawings) handgrip means 59 for rod 50 screwing. Moreover, each foot 53 preferably comprises a rectangular plate 60 connected to the lower end 52 of the rod 50 at the central part 61 of the plate. The central part 61 of the plate 60 advantageously comprises a hole 62 in which the lower end 52 of a rod 50 is rotatably inserted. In that way, when the rod 50 is turned about itself for screwing, the rotary movement is not transmitted to the plate 60 which, in practice, remains fixed in position. The plate 60 also, comprises third fixing holes 63 at the corners, for the insertion of fixing screws which can be screwed directly into the floor slabs 64 or for the insertion of nails. The fixing screws (or the nails) and the fixing holes 63 are part of the first fixing means 96.
Moreover, the connecting element 46 between the two sections 45 comprises a , first bar 65 and a second bar 66 whose cross-section is slightly greater than that of the first bar 65 so that the first bar 65 is slidably inserted in the second bar 66 in such a way as to form a telescopic guide. The first bar 65 extends mainly between a first fixing end 67 and a first sliding end, whilst the second bar 66 extends mainly between a second fixing end 68 and a second sliding end 69. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2 the first bar 65 is connected to one section 45 at its first fixing end 67, whilst the second bar 66 is connected to the other section 45 at its second fixing end 68. Each connection to the sections 45 may preferably be made by means of welded joints 70 (as shown in Figure 2).
The- first bar 65 and the second bar 66 together , form part of second adjusting means 71 which therefore allow adjustment of the distance between the two sections 45. The second adjusting means 71 also comprise a locking element 72 for fixing the relative position between the first bar 65 and the second bar 66 once the distance between the two sections 45 has been adjusted. In a first embodiment the second adjusting means 71 may comprise a plurality of holes in the first bar and the second bar 66 and a pin which can be inserted in a hole which is in the second bar 66 and is a continuation of a hole in the first bar 65, in such a way as to prevent the two bars 65, 66 from moving relative to each other. Advantageously, the holes may be positioned at a predetermined distance from each other according to the standard dimensions of counter-frames on the market. In a second embodiment the second adjusting means 71 may comprise a threaded pin screwed into the second bar 66. In this way, by tightening the pin it comes into contact with the first bar 65, preventing the two bars 65, 66 from sliding relative to each other.
The supporting structure 42 also comprises third fixing means 73 for connecting the supporting structure 42 to the counter-frame 1. In the preferred embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, at each section 45 the third fixing means 73 comprise a first angle bar 74 formed by two portions 75, 76 which are perpendicular to each other, where a first portion 75 is connected to the fixing end 67, 68 of a bar 65, 66 and is parallel with the first part 47 of the sections 45 of the supporting base 43, and the other portion 76 is perpendicular to the first 75. In particular, the second portion 76 of the first angle bar 74 defines ; a vertical plane intersecting the section 45. Advantageously, each bar 65; 66 does not cross said plane 5; The third fixing means 73 also comprise fourth holes 77 made in the second portion 76 and transversal to it for the insertion of screws which can be screwed into the inner surface 7 of the counter-frame 1.
Therefore, on each section 45 there is a supporting area 78 between the points of intersection of the vertical plane formed by the second portion 76 of the first angle bar 74 with the section 45 and extending as far as the second part 48 of the section 45. Returning to the method according to this invention, it continues with a second step of resting the supporting structure 42 on a portion of a building such as a floor slab 64 or a wall 8. The supporting structure 42 is rested at a portion of a building where, based on the construction plans, a window or door must be located, before the surrounding wall 8 is built. At the points where the plans show a door is located, the supporting structure 42 is rested on or fixed to a floor slab 64. In contrast, at the points where the plans show a window is located, the supporting structure 42 can be rested on or fixed to the floor slab 64 (in this case the rods 50 of the ■ supporting structure 42 will be long enough for the height of the window from the ground) or on a wall 8 rising vertically from the floor slab 64 to a predetermined height (just below the height for installation of the windowsill 28) as described above.
In an alternative embodiment,, illustrated in Figures 3 and 4, the step of resting the supporting structure 42 on a portion of a building comprises a sub-step of fixing each plate 60, using the first fixing means 96, to a board 1 13 and resting the board 113 (before or after board 1 13 fixing) on the · ' - .: ' floor slab 64 or on the wall 8. Alternatively, after resting the board 1 13, the board 1 13 itself may, in practice, be fixed (preferably nailed) to the floor . slab 64 (in the case of a door) or to a wall 8 rising vertically from the floor slab 64 to a predetermined height (in the case of a window): In the latter case of fixing the board 1 18 to a wall 8 for a window, the wall 8 usually has a horizontal surface consisting of a number of bricks 1 14 forming the wall. However, often the bricks which form the wall 8 are of the structural type (with vertical holes in them), and therefore it is difficult to fix the board 1 13 to the bricks 1 14. In this case, in place of the board 1 13, a block 1 15 is fixed in one of the holes 116, for example by slotting it in or forcing it in with blows from a mallet until it is flush with the horizontal surface. The plate 60 is then screwed onto the block 115 as illustrated in Figures 5 and 6.
At this point the method according to this invention comprises a third step of adjusting the distance between the supporting base 4.3 and the portion of building on which it rests, using the supporting means 44 based on the thickness of the wall structure to be created between the supporting base : . 43 and the ground. Therefore, once the supporting structure 42 has been rested in place, the first adjusting means 54 are acted on, screwing each: rod 50, increasing or reducing the distance between each section . 45 and the portion of building below. It is also possible to independently adjust each rod 50 in such a way as to adjust not just the height of the sections 45, but also the angle between each section 45 and the floor slab 64. Therefore, it is also possible to level the supporting structure 42 irrespective of the irregularities of the portion of building on which it rests. At this point, the fourth step of the method (illustrated in Figure 3) comprises mounting the counter-frame 1 on the supporting structure 42 in such a way that the first ends 3 are associated with the supporting base 43. Therefore, it is necessary to act (even earlier if necessary) on the second adjusting means 71 of the supporting structure 42 for adjusting the distance between the two sections 45 based on the dimensions of the counter-frame 1. Figure 3 shows how the second portion 30 of each spacer element 25 rests on the first part 47 of a section 45 at the supporting area 78. At the same time, each inner surface 7 of the jambs 2 is in contact with the second portion 76 of the first angle bar 74 in such a way that the vertical plane previously defined is substantially parallel and in contact with the inner surface 7 of the jamb 2.
At this point, screws are inserted in the fourth holes 77 of each first angle bar 74 and are screwed directly into the respective adjacent jamb 2, thereby fixing the counter-frame 1 to the supporting structure 42.
The method also comprises a fifth step of holding in position the jambs 2. of the counter-frame 1 (Figure 3) using at least one spacing structure 79, which, is part of the supporting structure 42, connected between the inner surfaces 7 of the jambs 2 in such a way as to hold the jambs 2 horizontally spaced by the same distance from the first end 3 to the second end 4. The spacing structure 79 preferably comprises two connecting elements 80 which are connected to each other by an adjustable connecting structure 81. The spacing structure 79 can be fixed between the inner surfaces of the jambs 2 of the counter-frame 1 in such a way that the connecting elements 80 are each fixed to the inner surface 7 of one jamb 2.
In the preferred embodiment, the connecting structure 81 comprises a third bar 82 and a fourth bar 83, one- inserted in the other and- operating · like the first bar 65 and the second bar 66 of the supporting structure 42. Each connecting element 80 comprises a second angle bar 84 (like the first 74) connected to the respective end (of the third bar 82 or of the fourth bar 83) which in practice is closest to a jamb 2.
Once the distance between the jambs 2 has been set, it is also preferable to stabilise the counter-frame 1 in such a way that the jambs 2 are vertical and transversal to the ground and the crosspiece 5 is transversal to each jamb 2. Therefore, each jamb 2 is preferably connected to the crosspiece 5 using constraining means 85. The constraining means 85 comprise two connecting parts 86, 87 which are perpendicular to each other, and a rigid connecting portion 88 between the two connecting parts 86, 87. Each connecting part 86, 87 is fixed respectively either to the second end 4 of a jamb 2 or to the crosspiece 5.
A sixth step of the method according to this invention comprises stabilising the \ coiinter-frame 1 to the ceiling 90 of the building by means of adjustable supporting rods 89, which are also part of the supporting structure 42, connected between each outer surface 6 of the jambs 2 and the ceiling 90.
■ Each supporting rod 89 extends, in practice, vertically between a retaining : end 93 and a sliding end 94 which is opposite the retaining end and close to a jamb 2 of the counter-frame 1. Each supporting rod 89 is advantageously slidably mounted on the outer surface 6 of a jamb 2 using sliding means 91. The sliding means 91 are connected to the jamb 2 and comprise a sliding channel 92 in which the sliding end of the supporting rod 89 is inserted. In this way, it is possible to make the sliding rod 89 slide in the sliding channel until the retaining end 93 reaches the desired height.
At this point, the supporting rod 89 is fixed in position in the sliding channel ^ 92 using fourth fixing means 95 (for example, elements screwed in).
The method then comprises a seventh step of building a wall 8 around the , counter-frame 1 in contact with each outer surface 6, as shown in Figure 4. When the wall 8 being built in contact with a jamb 2 arrives close to the counter-frame 1 tabs 36, the second end 38 of each tab 36 is bent towards the wall 8 and embedded in it, thus creating counter-frame 1 supporting points on the wall 8 (Figure 5). Once the counter-frame 1 jambs 2 have been fixed to the wall 8 being built by means of the tabs 36, the supporting rods 89 can be removed by disconnecting them from the counter-frame 1. Then, construction of the wall 8 around the supporting frame (even above the crosspiece 5) can be completed. Finally, when the wall 8 has solidified and is compact around the counter-frame 1, the supporting structure 42, the spacing structure 79 and the constraining means 85 ean . be removed. The counter-frame 1 is preferably installed at the exterior walls of a building, therefore it is preferably suitable for installing exterior doors, windows or French windows 12.
Alternatively, the counter-frame 1 may be installed at the interior walls of a ; building, for example in a wall (e.g.: in an block of flats) separating a flat : from the stairwell; or even inside a flat, at a wall separating two rooms.
This invention brings important advantages.
First, installing counter-frames before the wall is built optimises the operations for construction of a building. It avoids wasting time on operations to adapt walls to counter-frames and for fixing the counter- : frames to the walls. Therefore, counter-frame installation operations are speeded up, at the same time increasing productivity. Moreover, errors positioning counter-frames relative to the plans are avoided.
Second, the supporting structure guarantees that the counter-frame is square with the floor slab and with, the wall. In addition, the method described above facilitates the installation of doorsills or windowsills in the lower part of the counter-frame.
Moreover, a door or window can be mounted on the rabbets of the counter-frame, guaranteeing sash 180° opening. Finally, the box can be made of a number of separate elements which can be assembled on site, thus optimising transportation space occupied by the counter-frame.
It should also be noticed that this invention is relatively easy to produce and that even the cost linked to implementing the invention is not very high.
The invention described above may be modified and adapted in several ways without thereby departing from the scope of the inventive concept. Moreover, all details of the invention may be substituted with other -technically equivalent elements and in practice all of. the materials used, as well as the shapes and dimensions of the various components, may vary according to requirements.
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