PAUL, Lawrence (Block 1090, Lower Delta Road#04-01/02, Singapore 1, 16920, SG)
| CLAIMS 1. A space saving sliding door system for one or more pair of toilet cubicles or shower cubicles, the sliding door system comprising:- a top hung longitudinal rail (7), said top hung longitudinal rail (7) having an inner track (23) and an outer track (24); one or more slider junction (20); spaced along the top hung longitudinal rail (7) said slider junction (20) supporting the top hung longitudinal rail (7); and a pair of sliders (4,5), an outer slider (5) suspended on a roller assembly (21 ) which runs along the outer track (24) and an inner slider (4) suspended on a roller assembly (21 ) which runs along the inner track (23) characterized in that a cubicle is in an opened position when a slider (4,5) is parked at the slider junction (20), and the cubicle is in a closed position when a slider (4,5) is substantially slided out of the slider junction (20) where it is parked. 2. A space saving sliding door system as claimed in Claim 1 , further comprising one or more divider panels (2); which separates the cubicles; each of the divider panels (2) connected to the top hung longitudinal rail (7) at right angles to the top hung longitudinal rail (7). 3. A top hung longitudinal rail (7) as claimed in Claim 1 , having a brake pad (11 ) spaced along the top hung longitudinal rail (7), the space between two brake pads (1 ) defining the opening for a cubicle. 4. A slider (4,5) as claimed in Claim 1 having a top stopper (10) on each top end of the slider (4,5). 5. A slider (4,5) as claimed in Claim 1 wherein a cubicle is closed when one slider (4,5) is slided out of the slider junction (20), moved along the top hung longitudinal rail (7) until the top stopper (10) meets a brake pad (11 ). 6. A double slider space saving sliding door system as claimed in Claim 1 , wherein a cubicle is closed when a slider (4,5) is slided out of one slider junction (20) and an opposite slider (4,5) is slided out of an adjoining slider junction (20), both sliders (4,5) meeting each other. 7. A slider (4,5) as claimed in Claim 1 having a door handle (14) so that the door handle (14) can be used to move the slider (4,5) on the roller assembly (21 ). 8. A slider junction (20) as claimed in Claim 1 , said slider junction (20) comprising a front vertical panel (6) and a back vertical panel (3), forming a space inside for parking the inner slider (4) and outer slider (5). 9. A slider junction (20) as claimed in Claim 1 , wherein the top of the front vertical panel (6) and the back vertical panel (3) is covered by the top hung longitudinal rail (7). 10. A slider junction (20) as claimed in Claim 1 , wherein the bottom of the front vertical panel (6) and the back vertical panel (3) is covered by a bottom rail (12) and said bottom rail (12) is supported by an adjustable leg (13A). 11. A slider junction (20) as claimed in Claim 1 , said slider junction (20) comprising a single vertical panel (2) wherein the inner slider (4) and outer slider (5) are parked, with the single vertical panel (2) in between. 12. A back vertical panel (4) for a slider junction (20) as claimed in Claim 8 wherein said back vertical panel (4) is joined at right angles to the divider panel (2) by an U channel (1 ) for the divider panel (2). 13. A single vertical panel for a slider junction (20) as claimed in Claim 8 wherein said single vertical panel joined at right angles to the divider panel (2) by brush strip seal (17). 14. A slider junction (20) as claimed in Claim 1 wherein the width of said slider junction (20) is slightly less than the width of each slider (4,5) so that when each slider (4,5) is individually slided into the slider junction (20), a portion of the slider (4,5) and the door handle (14) is seen, thereby allowing a user to close the cubicle by gripping the door handle (14) and moving the slider (4,5) across the opening of the cubicle 15. A slider junction (20) as claimed in Claim 1 , wherein the brake pads (11) spaced along the top hung longitudinal rail (7) stops the outer slider (5) and inner slider (4) once it is comes inside the slider junction (20). 16. A slider junction (20) as claimed in Claim 1 , wherein the front vertical panel (6) and back vertical panel (3) each has an angled metal piece to stop the slider (4,5). 17. A roller assembly (21 ) for a sliding door system as claimed in Claim 1 , wherein said roller assembly (21 ) is attached to an upper side of the slider (4,5) so that it slides along a track in the top hung longitudinal rail (7). 18. A roller assembly (21 ) for a sliding door system as claimed in Claim 1 , when said roller assembly (21 ) moves along the track of the top hung longitudinal rail (7), the slider (4,5) to which the roller assembly (21 ) is attached, slides along in the same direction. 19. A roller assembly (21) for a sliding door system as claimed in Claim 1 , wherein said roller assembly (21 ) has rolling means (22) for movement along the track of the top hung longitudinal rail (7). 20. A rolling means (22) for a roller assembly (21 ) for a sliding door system as claimed in Claim 19, wherein said rolling means (22) is a roller. 21. A rolling means (22) for a roller assembly (21 ) for a sliding door system as claimed in Claim 19, wherein said rolling means (21 ) is a spherical ball. 22. A double slider space saving sliding door system as claimed in Claim 6, wherein one slider (4,5) has a latch for a door lock (14A) and the opposite slider (4,5) has a door lock (14A). 23. A divider panel (2) for a sliding door system as claimed in Claim 1 wherein said divider panel (2) is joined to a back vertical panel (3) of the slider junction (20), said front end of divider panel (2) is anchored to an U channel (1) fixed onto the back vertical panel (3) of the slider junction (20). 24. A divider panel (2) for a sliding door system as claimed in Claim 1 wherein said divider panel (2) is anchored to the back of the toilet or shower by an U channel (1 ) fixed onto the back . 25. A divider panel (2) for a single slider system as claimed in Claim 1 , wherein for each divider panel (2) is not joined to a slider junction (20), said divider panel (2) has at its front end an aluminum frame (15) which side receives the end of a slider (4,5), to close the cubicle. 26. A divider panel (2) for a sliding door system as claimed in Claim 1 wherein said divider panel (2) rests on an adjustable leg (13A) for the divider panel (2). 27. A single slider as claimed in Claim 5, wherein one slider has a lock (14A) and in the closed position, the slider (4,5) is locked when it meets the a latch in the aluminum frame (15) which side receives the end of the slider (4,5), to close and lock the cubicle. . |
The present invention relates to a space saving sliding door system for interior use such as in toilets and bath rooms in public areas. DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART
The toilet is one of the most neglected areas in buildings. While some attention has been paid to make the toilet a clean and comfortable place, architects and planners try to minimize space allocated to toilets as land costs and building costs demand that areas such as toilets be given little attention. As a result, most toilets are small in area. Furthermore movements in the toilet are often restricted as most toilet systems have doors which swing inwards. Thus movement in and out of toilet cubicles is hampered. In places like airports where a user of a toilet needs to keep his luggage close to him, it would not be possible to place a trolley and luggage in the toilet. Thus, security of personal belongings in the airport is compromised if the user cannot bring the luggage and trolley into the toilet cubicles. As for toilets for females, since more cubicles are required, use of swing doors in toilet cubicles would mean additional space has to be allocated for movement of swing doors, thus, more space is required or fewer female toilets can be accommodated. An example of a patent for toilets is US Patent Publication No,. 2005/01255891 which is an invention relating to a toilet construction comprising at least two adjacent toilets having an access opening which can be closed by means of a door, said toilet cubicle being separated by means of a partition. The partition can be displaced so that the floor space of one toilet cubicle can be enlarged and the floor space of the other toilet cubicle reduced accordingly.
One drawback of such sliding door panels to be used in toilets and showers is the use of many parts and consequently more time is taken for the installation. Another drawback is the requirement for a space saving solution to the toilet doors due to specific dimensions laid down for toilets.
A typical toilet cubicle measures 950 mm wide by 1000 mm long. In order to allow the swing door of the toilet cubicle to swing inwards, an aisle space of at least 900 mm has to be provided. If a sliding door is used, instead of a swing door, the passage into the cubicle will be wider even though the cubicle's entrance is of the same dimension. The length of the toilet cubicle can be shorter since there is no need to provide for a gap between the toilet seat and the arc formed from the path of the swing door. It is possible to build more toilet cubicles due to the change to sliding doors. Alternatively, it is possible to build toilets with a shorter length, resulting in a smaller area occupied by each cubicle. The change of swing door to sliding door results could either result lowering costs of toilets (for male toilets) or provide one or more additional cubicles (in the case of female toilets). Since male and female toilets are located next to each other, the combined advantages arising from use of sliding door toilet systems of the invention would offer more female toilet cubicles with the same allocated area for toilets or smaller area utilisation for toilets, thereby resulting in lower land costs and maintenance costs savings.
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION
What is desirable is a sliding door system for a cubicle which allow users who are physically bigger in size to enter the said cubicle with ease .
Such a slider system will also be convenient for handicapped persons and it is possible to install cubicles for handicap persons in the main toilet without the need for separate toilet cubicle for handicap persons, thus integrating such people with other users.
Such a slider system for cubicles would be advantageous for use in airports, where users of toilets have to push their trolley with luggage into the toilets, for security reasons.
A slider system for cubicles according to this invention would also enhance security in toilets as security personnel can easily slide open the sliding door to check if anyone is hiding inside the toilet or whether there is any suspicious object inside the toilet.
Such a slider system for cubicles according to this invention must accommodate the sliding doors so as to offer wider passageway into the toilet cubicle as compared to swing doors but not be bulky. At the same time, the sliding door must be easy to use and easy to build. Finally, the invention will give a saving of at least 0.4 m 2 when compared to normal toilet or shower cubicles with a swing door. The saving comes from the reduction in space required for the swing door of the toilet to open inwards and not be blocked by the toilet seat. The constraint caused by the arc of the inward closing swing door hinders movement into the toilet cubicle. Doing away with swing doors using the space saving toilet or shower cubicle of this invention could result in space savings which translate into more toilet cubicles for the same floor area. It could also translate into lower costs of installation for toilet and shower facilities or more cubicles per toilet/shower facility.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
A first object of the invention for a space saving sliding door system for one or more pair of toilet cubicles or shower cubicles is a sliding door system having:- a top hung longitudinal rail, said longitudinal rail having an inner track and an outer track;
one or more slider junction; spaced along the top hung longitudinal rail, said slider junction supporting the top hung longitudinal rail; and
a pair of slider, an outer slider suspended on a roller assembly
which runs along the outer track and an inner slider suspended on a roller assembly which runs along the inner track wherein the cubicle is in an opened position when a slider is parked at the slider junction, and the cubicle is in a closed position when a slider is substantially slided out of the slider junction where it is parked. Preferably, the space saving sliding door system has one or more divider panels; which separates the cubicles; each of the divider panels connected to the top hung longitudinal rail at right angles to the top hung longitudinal rail. Preferably, the top hung longitudinal rail has a brake pad spaced along the top hung longitudinal rail, the space between two brake pads defining the opening for a cubicle.
Preferably, the slider has a top stopper on each top end of the slider.
Preferably, when one slider is closed when it is slided out of the slider junction, moved along the top hung longitudinal rail until the top stopper meets a brake pad. Advantageously the cubicle of the double slider space saving sliding door system is closed when a slider is slided out of one slider junction and an opposite slider is slided out of an adjoining slider junction, both sliders meeting each other.
Preferably, the slider has a door handle so that the door handle can be used to move the slider on the roller assembly.
Preferably, the slider junction comprises a front vertical panel and a back vertical panel, forming a space inside for parking the inner slider and outer slider. Preferably, the top of the front vertical panel and the back vertical panel of the slider junction is covered by the top hung longitudinal rail. Preferably, the bottom of the front vertical panel and the back vertical panel of the slider junction is covered by a bottom rail and said bottom rail is supported by an adjustable leg. Alternatively, the slider junction comprises a single vertical panel wherein the inner slider and outer slider are parked, with the single vertical panel in between.
Preferably, the back vertical panel is joined at right angles to the divider panel by an U channel for the divider panel.
Alternatively, the single vertical panel is joined at right angles to the divider panel by brush strip seal.
Preferably, the width of said slider junction is slightly less than the width of each slider so that when each slider is individually slided into the slider junction, a portion of the slider and the door handle is seen, thereby allowing a user to close the cubicle by gripping the door handle and moving the slider across the opening of the cubicle Preferably, the brake pads spaced along the top hung longitudinal rail stops the outer slider and inner slider once the outer slider or inner slider comes inside the slider junction.
Preferably, the front vertical panel and back vertical panel each has an angled metal piece to stop the slider. Preferably the roller assembly is attached to an upper side of the slider so that it slides along a track in the top hung longitudinal rail.
Preferably when the roller assembly moves along the track of the top hung longitudinal rail, the slider to which the roller assembly is attached, slides along in the same direction.
Preferably the roller assembly has rolling means for movement along the track of the top hung longitudinal rail.
More advantageously the rolling means is a roller.
Alternatively, the rolling means is a spherical ball. Alternatively, for the double slider space saving sliding door system, one slider has a latch for a door lock and the opposite slider has a door lock.
Preferably the divider panel is joined to a back vertical panel of the slider junction, said front end of divider panel is anchored to an U channel fixed onto the back vertical panel of the slider junction.
Preferably the divider panel is anchored to the back of the toilet or shower by an U channel fixed onto the back . Preferably the divider panel for a single slider where each divider panel is not joined to a slider junction, said divider panel has at its front end an aluminum frame which side receives the end of a slider, to close the cubicle. Preferably, the divider panel rests on an adjustable leg for the divider panel.
Alternatively, for a single slider space saving sliding door system, one slider has a lock and in the closed position, the slider is locked when it meets the latch in the aluminum frame which side receives the end of the slider, to close and lock the cubicle. .
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
For a better understanding of the invention, its advantages, and the objects attained by its use, reference should now be made to the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings illustrate one or more embodiments of the invention and together with the description herein, serve to explain the workings and principles of the invention. However, the drawings refers to a toilet cubicle, the sliding door system applies to both toilet and shower cubicles. Hence, for this invention as described in this specification, the word " cubicle " refers to either toilet or shower cubicle. The sliding door system can be used wherever there is more than two cubicles adjacent to each other. A single slider refers to a single slider of a sliding door for each cubicle. A double slider refers to two sliders of sliding doors for each cubicle. For this invention as described in the specification, the term " single slider " refers to the use of one sliding door to close the cubicle and the term " double slider " refers to the use of two sliding doors to close the cubicle, a slider from one side of the cubicle. The term " slider " used hereinafter would refer to either a single slider or a double slider. The term " slider junction " refers to the inventive feature of this invention in which the sliders are temporarily parked when the cubicle is in an opened position. This term " slider junction " is given not only because the sliders are temporarily parked there but also because a T junction is formed when the back aluminum panel of the slider junction is joined to a divider panel by means of a bracket and screws, forming a T-junction.
Fig 1 to 16 shows an embodiment of a single slider system for a pair of toilet cubicles. In the drawings illustrating this embodiment, a pair of toilet cubicles are shown and the inventive features illustrated using the pair. A plurality of pairs of toilet cubicles can also be constructed using the same single slider system.
Fig.1 is a perspective view from the top of a system for a single slider for each cubicle.
Fig. 2 is a view from the top of a system for a single slider for each cubicle. Fig. 3 is a front view of the two cubicles with a system for a single slider for each cubicle.
Fig. 4 is a sectional view of a cubicle as seen from the side. Fig. 5 is a cross section view of the system for a single slider for each cubicle, at the top of the cubicle. Fig. 6 is a cross section view of the slider junction for a single slider for each cubicle, showing the slider junction at the bottom of the cubicle.
Fig. 7 is a cross section view of the side of the system for a single slider for each cubicle, showing details of the slider junction at the bottom of the cubicle.
Fig. 8 is a top view of the divider between two cubicles.
Fig. 9 is a top view of the two cubicles taken along 1 - 1 of the top of the two cubicles with each single slider fully slided out of the single slider system.
Fig. 10 is a cross section view of the two cubicles taken along 2 - 2 near the top of the two cubicles with each single slider fully slided out of the slider junction. Fig. 11 is a cross section taken along A-A in Fig 9, with the single slider fully slided out of the slider junction for one cubicle
Fig. 12 is a cross section taken along B-B in Fig 9, with the single slider fully slided out of the slider junction for the other cubicle.
Fig. 13 is a top view of the two cubicles with each slider slided out of the slider junction and across each cubicle, thereby closing both cubicles.
Fig. 14 is a top view of the two cubicles with each slider slided into the slider junction, thereby opening both cubicles. Fig. 15 is a cross section detailed view of the aluminum vertical frame (detail E in Fig 14) which acts as a door stop for a single slider .
Fig. 16 is a cross section enlarged view of the slider junction, with each slider slided into the slider junction, wherein both cubicles would be in an opened position.
Fig 17 to 32 shows an embodiment of a double slider system for two cubicles.
Fig.17 is a perspective view from the top of a system for a double slider for each cubicle.
Fig.18 is a view from the top of a system for a double slider for each cubicle.
Fig. 19 is a front view of the two cubicles with a system for a double slider for each cubicle.
Fig. 20 is a sectional view of a cubicle as seen from the side.
Fig. 21 is a cross section view of the system for a double slider for each cubicle, at the top of the cubicle.
Fig. 22 is a cross section view of the system for a double slider for each cubicle, showing the slider junction at the bottom of the cubicle. Fig. 23 is a cross section view of the side of the system for a double slider for each cubicle, showing details of the slider junction at the bottom of the cubicle. Fig. 24 is a top view of the divider panel between two cubicles.
Fig. 25 is a top view of the two cubicles taken along 1 - 1 of the top of the two cubicles with each slider fully slided out of its slider junction.
Fig. 26 is a cross section view of the two cubicles taken along 2 - 2 near the top of the two cubicles with each slider fully slided out of its slider junction
Fig. 27 is a cross section taken along A-A in Fig 26, with the double slider fully slided out of the double slider system for one cubicle
Fig. 28 is a cross section taken along B-B in Fig 26, with both slider fully slided out of their slider junctions, for the other cubicle. Fig. 29 is a top view of the two cubicles with two sliders slided out of the slider junction, across each cubicle, thereby closing both cubicles.
Fig. 30 is a top view of the two cubicles with two sliders slided into the slider junction, thereby opening both cubicles.
Fig. 31 is a cross section detailed view of the slider junction (D of Fig 30) for a double slider system.
Fig. 32 shows how a single slider system can be fitted for toilet cubicles of different configuration. Fig. 33 shows another embodiment of the slider junction using only one vertical panel.
Fig 34 to 45 shows an embodiment of a single slider system for two shower cubicles. A plurality of shower cubicles based on the inventive sliding door system can also be constructed using the same single slider system.
Fig. 34 is a perspective view from the top of a system for a single slider for each shower cubicle.
Fig. 35 is a view from the top of a system for a single slider for each shower cubicle.
Fig. 36 is a front view of the two cubicles with a system for a single slider for each shower cubicle.
Fig. 37 is a sectional view of a shower cubicle as seen from the side.
Fig. 38 is a cross section view of the system for a single slider for each shower cubicle, at the top of the shower cubicle.
Fig. 39 is a side view of the divider for the system for a single slider for each cubicle, showing details of the slider system at the bottom of the shower cubicle.
Fig 40 is a top view of the divider between two shower cubicles. Fig. 41 is a top view of the two cubicles taken along 1 - 1 of the top of the two cubicles with each single slider fully slided out of the slider junction.
Fig. 42 is a cross section view of the two cubicles taken along 2 - 2 near the top of the two cubicles with each single slider fully slided out of the slider junction.
Fig. 43 is a cross section taken along A-A in Fig 42, with the single slider fully slided out of the slider junction for one cubicle Fig. 44 is a cross section taken along B-B in Fig 42, with the single slider fully slided out of the slider junction for the other cubicle.
Fig. 45 is a cross section detailed view of the stopper (detail E of Fig 34) for a single slider system.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
A first embodiment of the present invention being a single slider system will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
Fig.1 is a perspective view from the top of a system for a single slider for each cubicle (without the toilet seats). The term " single slider " refers to the use of one sliding door to close the cubicle and the term " double slider " refers to the use of two sliding doors (or "sliders") to close a cubicle, a slider from each side of the cubicle, both sliders meeting in the centre of the cubicle. In the case of toilet cubicles, the divider panel (2) and sliders (4,5) can be 12 mm HPL Boards. The inventive feature is the use of a front vertical panel (6) and back vertical panel (3) to act as a slider junction (20) for temporary parking of the single slider for each of a pair of cubicle and a top hung longitudinal rail (7) which runs along the entire length of the front of each pair of toilets cubicle (30). The front vertical panel (6) and top hung longitudinal rail (7) can be aluminum. The front vertical panel (6) can also be stainless steel.
Fig. 2 is a view from the top of a system for a single slider for each cubicle. The toilet seats are now shown. In Fig 2 and subsequent drawings illustrating this embodiment, only a pair of two toilets cubicles (30) are shown. The single slider system has an outer slider (5) slidable across a cubicle. The cubicle on the left is in a closed position with outer slider (5) across the opening of the cubicle. An inner slider (4) remains within the slider junction (20) of the single slider system, therefore the adjoining cubicle on the right is in an opened position. The inner slider (4) can only be slided outwards across the opening but not through the slider junction (20) because it is effectively stopped by an angle metal panel (6A), situated at the end of the slider junction (20). Likewise the sliders (4,5) cannot be slided through into the next slider junction (20) as each slider (4,5) has a top stopper (10) and bottom stopper (1 OA) to prevent it from going beyond.
Fig. 3 is a front view of the same pair of toilets cubicles (30) as shown in Fig. 2. The outer slider (5) on the left cubicle is closed while the cubicle on the right is shown opened. The outer slider (5) when slided into the opened position, is stopped from sliding past the slider junction (20) by a brake pad (11 ). A top stopper (10) and bottom stopper (1 OA) are installed on the sliders (4,5) to prevent the
IS sliders (4,5) from going through the slider junction (20) and into the adjacent pair of toilet cubicles (30).
Fig. 4 is a sectional view of a cubicle, as seen from the side. A divider panel (2) separates one cubicle from another. In the single slider system, when the sliders (4,5) are within the slider junction (20), these are neatly aligned and adjacent to each other in a vertical plane.
Fig. 5 is a cross section view of the arrangement in the slider junction (20) for a single slider for each cubicle, at the top of the cubicle, as shown in detail " A " in Fig 4. Each of the two sliders (4,5) has a roller assembly (21 ) which is slidable along the top hung longitudinal rail (7) which has two tracks, an inner track (23) and an outer track (24). The roller assembly (21 ) of the outer slider (5) is slidable along the outer track (24). The roller assembly (21 ) of the inner slider (4) is slidable along the inner track (23). When both sliders (4,5) are inside the slider junction (20) as shown, the pair of toilet cubicles (30) would be in an opened position.
Fig. 6 is a cross section view of the side of the bottom of the cubicle, showing the slider junction (20) and a divider panel (2) which divides the pair of toilet cubicles (30), affording privacy of use. The divider panel (2) rests on a leg (13), which supports the divider panel (2). The slider junction (20) rests on adjustable legs (13A) so that the height of the cubicle could be adjusted upwards or downwards, according to building and other regulatory requirements. The cross section of the slider junction (20) shows the two sliders (4,5) aligned next to each other, and parked in the slider junction (20), between the front vertical panel (6) and back vertical panel (3) of the slider junction (20). Fig. 7 is a cross section view of the arrangement in the slider junction (20) for a single slider for the pair of toilet cubicle (30), at the bottom of the slider junction (20). , being a detailed view of detail " F " in Fig. 6. The slider junction (20) consists of the following :-
A front vertical panel (6);
An outer slider (5);
An inner slider (4); and
A back vertical panel (3) wherein both outer slider (5) and inner slider (4) are aligned next to each other, and parked within the slider junction (20).
The bottom rail (12) is fixed at one side to the divider panel (2) and at the other side, screwed to a bottom rail (12) which sits on the adjustable legs (13A) of the cubicle, which supports the entire system. The bottom rail (12) has grooves to allow the sliding of the outer slider (5) (which may be the slider for the first cubicle) and inner slider (4) (which would then be the slider for the second cubicle), Fig. 8 is a top view of the divider panel (2) between two cubicles and is the detailed view of " C " of Fig. 2. One end of the divider panel (2) is fitted and connected to an U bracket (1 ), which is anchored to the wall of the toilet, for support. The other end of the divider panel (2) is fitted and connected to another U bracket (1), which is screwed into the back vertical panel (3) of the slider junction (20). Fig. 9 is a top view of the two cubicles taken along 1 - 1 of the top of the two cubicles with each single slider fully slided out of the slider junction (20). The cross section of the slider system is not shown in detail. When the slider (4,5) is fully slided out from the slider junction (20), a top stopper (10) prevents the slider from crashing into the end of the cubicle. Likewise, a brake pad (11 ) is fitted in the single slider system to prevent the slider [either inner slider (4) or outer slider (5)] from going through the single slider system. Therefore, if the slider (4,5) is fully slided out, it will not crash into the adjacent slider junction (20) (assuming there are more than two cubicles) or into the wall (if there are only two cubicles). Likewise, if the slider (4,5) is forcefully slided into an opened position, the slider (4,5) would not damage the slider junction (20) because the brake pad (11 ) would stop the slider (4,5) from damaging the next slider junction (20).
Fig. 10 is a cross section view of the two cubicles taken along 2 - 2 near the top of the two cubicles with each single slider (4,5) fully slided out of the slider junction (20).
Fig. 11 is a cross section taken along A-A in Fig 9, with the single slider fully slided out of the slider junction (20). The cross section of the top of the top hung longitudinal rail (7) (at the opening of the cubicle) is shown in detail. A top cover plate (9) and a steel enforcement plate (9A) encase the top hung longitudinal rail (7). A bottom cover (8) runs the length of the opening of the cubicle merely for asthetic purpose. A steel reinforcement plate (9A) lends additional support to the top hung longitudinal rail (7). In this closed position, the inner slider (4) is fully slided out. Fig. 12 is a cross section taken along B-B in Fig 9, with the single slider (4,5) fully slided out of the slider junction (20). The cross section of the top of the top hung longitudinal rail (7) (at the opening of the other cubicle) is shown in detail. A top cover plate (9) and a steel enforcement plate (9A) encases the top hung longitudinal rail (7). A bottom cover (8) runs the entire length of the opening of the other cubicle merely for aesthetic purpose. A steel reinforcement plate (9A) lends additional support to the top hung longitudinal rail (7). In this closed position, the outer slider (5) is fully slided out. It can be seen that Fig 11 and Fig 12 mirrors each other except for the position of the inner slider (4) and outer slider (5).
Fig. 13 is a top view of the two cubicles with each slider (4,5) slided out of the slider junction (20), across each cubicle, thereby closing both cubicles. It can be seen that both sliders (4, 5) are stopped by the stopper at the end. When the slider (4,5) is fully slided out, the back end of the slider (4,5) will still remain inside the single slider system, stopped by a brake pad (11 ), so that it would not fall or slide out of the slider junction (20). In the case where one of the pair of cubicles is next to a wall, a U channel (1 A) for the slider (4,5) is used to receive the slider (4,5), when it is slided across that cubicle, to close the cubicle.
Fig. 14 is a top view of the two cubicles with each slider (4,5) pushed into the slider junction (20), thereby opening both cubicles. In the opened position for both cubicles, the slider (4,5) for one cubicle [outer slider (5)] and the slider for the other cubicle [inner slider (4)] and front vertical panel (6) and back vertical panel (3) are all inside the slider junction (20). A top stopper (10) and bottom stopper (10A) installed on each slider (4,5) will ensure the slider (4,5) does not go beyond into the adjoining slider junction (20). A little portion of one slider (4,5) will stick out. Attached to this little portion of the slider (4,5) is the handle (14) which allows the user to slide it close, for use.
Fig. 15 is a cross section detailed view of the aluminum vertical frame (15) (detail E in Fig 14) which acts as a door stop for a single slider (4,5). The recess in the aluminum vertical frame (15) allows the end of the slider (4,5) to fit snuggly into it, as shown in Fig. 13.
Fig. 16 is a cross section enlarged view of the slider junction (20), with each slider (4,5) slided into the slider junction (20), wherein both cubicles would be in an opened position. In the opened position for both cubicles, the slider (4,5) for one cubicle [outer slider (5)] and the slider for the other cubicle [inner slider (4)] and front vertical panel (6) and back vertical panel (3) are all inside the slider junction (20). A little portion of one slider (4,5) will stick out. This little portion will have the door handle (14) so as to enable an user to hold onto the door handle (14) and slide it close, for use. The entire single slider system is enclosed by aluminum front vertical panel (6) and aluminum back vertical panel (3), for aesthetic as well as actual support. It can be seen the back vertical panel (3) is joined to the divider panel (2) by means of a U channel (1 ) screwed into the back vertical panel (4). By forming a T-junction, (hence the term " slider junction (20)"), rigidity and strength is given to the divider and single slider system, enabling the slider system to house the inner slider (4) and outer slider (5). A second embodiment of the invention, being a double slider for each cubicle, will now be described. The term " double slider " refers to the use of two sliding doors to close a cubicle, a slider (4,5) from each side of a cubicle, both sliders meeting in the centre of the cubicle. In this second embodiment, the slider junctions (20) are spaced along the top hung longitudinal rail (7), with a left slider junction (20) for the first cubicle and a right slider junction (20) for the second cubicle of the pair of toilet cubicles (30).
Fig.17 is a perspective view of the top of a system for a double slider for a pair of toilet cubicles (30). In this embodiment, the first and second of the pair of toilet cubicles (30) are shown (without the toilet seats). The double slider system has an outer slider (5) slided out across the first cubicle in the pair to meet a corresponding outer slider (5) from the adjoining second cubicle in the pair of toilet cubicles (30). The cubicle on the leftmost is therefore in a closed position. In the adjoining second cubicle of the pair of toilet cubicles (30), an inner slider (4) remains in the slider junction (20) and is in an opened position . Likewise the outer slider (5) in the first cubicle of the adjoining second pair of toilet cubicles (30) is slightly out of its slider junction (20), thereby the adjoining cubicle (in the next pair of cubicles) is in an semi-opened position.
Fig. 18 is a view from the top of a system for a double slider as shown in Fig 17. The toilet seats are now shown. The left cubicle is in a closed position, with both outer sliders (5, 5) meeting in the center of the opening (one from each slider junction 20). The right cubicle (of this pair of cubicles) is in an opened position, with the inner slider (4) inside the slider junction (20) and the inner slider (4) inside the adjoining slider junction (20). Fig. 19 is a front view of the same pair of toilet cubicles (30) as shown in Fig. 17. The slider (4,5) on the left cubicle is closed while the cubicle on the right is shown opened. For a double slider system, a slider junction (20) must be installed at each divider panel (2). Each slider junction (20) consists of a front vertical panel (6), a back vertical panel (3) forming a space in which two sliders (4,4 or 5,5) are parked. In such a configuration, movement of the outer slider (5) in a slider junction (20) must correspond with movement of the outer slider (5) in the adjoining slider junction (20) for the pair of toilet cubicles (30). For example, for the left cubicle, an outer slider (5) in a first slider junction (20), would meet an outer slider (5) in the second and adjoining slider junction (20). The inner slider (4) of the right slider junction (20) would have to meet the inner slider (4) of the slider junction (20) of the adjoining cubicle. The sliders (4,4, or 5,5) cannot be slided past backwards, as it is effectively stopped by a angle metal panel (6A), situated at the end of each vertical front panel (6) and each back panel (3). Likewise the slider (4,5) cannot be slided past into the next slider junction (20) as the slider (4,5) has a top stopper (10) and a bottom stopper (10A) to prevent it from going beyond.
Fig. 20 is a sectional view of a cubicle, as seen from the side. A divider panel (2) separates one cubicle from another.
Fig. 21 is a cross section view of the system for a double slider for each pair of toilet cubicle (30), at the top of a cubicle. This is a detailed cross section view of detail " A " in Fig 20. Each of the two sliders (4,5) has a roller assembly (21) which is slidable along the top hung longitudinal rail (7) which has two tracks, an inner track (23) and an outer track (24). The roller assembly (21 ) of the outer slider (5) is slidable along the outer track (24). The roller assembly (21 ) of the inner slider (4) is slidable along an inner roller track (23). When both sliders (4,5) are inside the slider junction (20) as shown, the pair of toilet cubicles (30) would be in an opened position.
Fig. 22 is a cross section of the system for a double slider for each cubicle, showing the divider panel (2) between cubicles, and also showing the slider junction (20) at the bottom of the cubicle. Since the weight of the slidable panels are substantial, the divider panel (2) has an additional support to hold the divider panel (2) and system for double slider. The divider panel (2) as well as the front vertical panel (6) rests on adjustable legs (13A) so that the height of the cubicle could be adjusted upwards or downwards, according to building and other regulatory requirements. Fig. 23 is a cross section view of the system for a double slider for each cubicle, showing details of the slider junction (20) at the bottom of the cubicle. This figure is a detailed view of detail " F " in Fig. 22. The bottom shows a bottom rail holding four panels, consisting of:- A front vertical panel (6);
An outer slider (5);
An inner slider (4); and
A back vertical panel (3) The bottom rail (12) is fixed at one side to the divider panel (2) and at the other side, screwed to a metal panel and sits on the adjustable legs (13A) of the cubicle, which supports the entire system. The bottom rail (12) has grooves to allow the sliding of the outer slider (5) (which may be the slider (4,5) for the first cubicle) and inner slider (4) which would then be the slider (4,5) for the adjoining cubicle. Fig 24 shows a top view of a divider panel (2) seen from the top which is a panel partitioning one cubicle from the other, affording privacy of use. One end of the divider panel (2) is fitted and connected to an U channel (1 ), which is anchored to the wall of the toilet, for support. The other end of the divider panel (2) is fitted and connected to an U channel (1 ), which is screwed into the back vertical panel (4) of the slider junction (20). The end of the divider panel (2) is fixed onto the wall of the toilet, to help distribute the weight of the entire system.
Fig. 25 is a top view of the two cubicles taken along 1 - 1 of the top of the two cubicles with each slider (4,5) fully slided out of its slider junction (20). The cross section of the slider junction (20) is not shown in detail. When the slider (4,5) is fully slided out from the slider junction (20), a top stopper (10) prevents the slider (4,5) from crashing into the end of the cubicle. Likewise, a brake pad (11 ) is fitted in the slider junction (20) to prevent the slider (4,5) [either inner slider (4) or outer slider (5)] from going through the slider junction (20). Therefore, if the slider (4,5) is fully slided out, it will not crash into the adjacent slider junction (20) (since there are more than two is forcefully slided into an open position, the slider (4,5) would not damage the slider junction (20) because the brake pad (11) would stop the slider (4,5) from damaging the slider junction (20). Fig. 26 is a cross section view of the pair of toilet cubicles (30) taken along 2 - 2 near the top of the pair of toilet cubicles (30) with each slider (4,5) fully slided out of its slider junction (20). The cross section of the slider system is not shown in detail. Fig. 27 is a cross section taken along A-A in Fig 26, with the double slider fully slided out of the single slider system for one cubicle. In this view, there is a gap because one of the slider (4,5) [inner slider (4)] is at the other cubicle. A bottom cover (8) covers the entire gap caused by the absence of the inner slider (4). In this closed position, in this case, the outer slider (5) is fully slided out. A steel reinforcement plate (9A) lends additional support to the top hung longitudinal rail (7)ยท
Fig. 28 is a cross section taken along B-B in Fig 26, with both sliders (4,5) fully slided out of the slider junction (20) to the other cubicle. In this view, there is a gap because one of the slider (4,5) [outer slider (5)] is at the first cubicle. A bottom cover (8) covers the entire gap caused by the absence of the outer slider (5). In this closed position, the inner slider (4) is fully slided out. A steel reinforcement plate (9A) further supports the top hung longitudinal rail (7).
It can be seen that Fig 27 and Fig 28 mirrors each other except for the position of the inner slider (4) and outer slider (5). In Fig 27, the inner slider (4) is not shown as the inner slider (4) is slided out to close the other cubicle. In Fig. 28, the outer slider (5) is not shown as it is slided out to close the other cubicle. Fig. 29 is a top view of the pair of toilet cubicles (30) with two sliders slided out of their slider junction (20), across each cubicle, thereby closing both cubicles. It can be seen that both sliders (4,5) are stopped by the stopper at each end. The sliders (4,5) can then be locked as one slider (4,5) has a latch for a door lock (14A) and the opposite slider (4,5) has a door lock (14A). When the slider (4,5) is fully slided out, one end of the slider (4,5) will still remain inside the slider junction (20) so that it would not fall or slide out of the slider junction (20).
Fig. 30 is a top view of the pair of toilet cubicles (30) with each slider (4,5) slided into the slider junction (20), thereby opening both cubicles. In the opened position for both cubicles, the slider (4,5) for one cubicle [outer slider (5)] and the slider (4,5) for the other cubicle [inner slider (4)] and front vertical panel (6) and back vertical panel (3) are all inside their respective slider junction (20). A top stopper (10) and bottom stopper (1 OA) installed on the slider (4,5) will ensure the slider does not go beyond the opening into the other slider junction (20). A little portion of one slider (4,5) will stick out so as to allow the user to grip the door handle (14) of the slider (4,5) and slide it close, for use.
Fig. 31 is a cross section view of the slider junction (20) for a double slider system. This figure is a detailed view of detail " D " shown in Fig. 30. In the opened position for both cubicles, the slider (4,5) for one cubicle [outer slider (5)] and the slider (4,5) for the other cubicle [inner slider (4)] and front vertical panel (6) and back vertical panel (3) are all inside the slider junction (20). A little portion of one slider (4,5) will stick out. This little portion will have the door grip (14) so as to enable an user to hold onto the door grip ( 4) and slide it close, for use. The entire single slider system is enclosed by front vertical panel (6) and back vertical panel (3), for aesthetic as well as actual support. It can be seen the back vertical panel (3) is joined to the divider panel (2) by means of an U channel (1 ) and screws. By forming a T-junction, (hence the term " slider junction (20)"), rigidity and strength is given to the divider and double slider system, enabling the slider junction (20) to house the inner slider (4) and outer slider (5). Fig. 32 shows how a single slider system can be fitted for toilet cubicles of a different configuration. Arrangement of toilet cubicles would not affect the working of the invention. For example, each pair of toilet cubicles (30) may be back to back. Still the inventive feature of sliding door can be implemented for such an arrangement, as seen in Fig. 32.
The slider junction (20) described in Fig 1 to 31 consists of a front vertical panel (6) and back vertical panel (3) forming a space in which two sliders (4,5) are parked.
Fig. 33 shows how another embodiment of slider junction (20) using only one front vertical panel (6). In this embodiment of a slider junction (20) using one front vertical panel (6), the front vertical panel (6) is in between the outer slider (4) and inner slide (5), when both sliders (4,5) are parked. Since the inner slider (4) will be between the divider panel (2) and the front vertical panel (6), a brush strip seal (17) continues form the end of the divider panel (2) until front vertical panel (6). The brush strip seal (17) is made of resilient material so that when the inner slider (4) is slided out of the slider junction (20), the brush strip seal (17) effectively seals the gap between the divider panel (2) and the front vertical panel (6), so as to afford privacy between the two pairs of toilet cubicles (30). Since the brush strip seal (17) is made of resilient material, it will bend to accommodate the inner slider (4) when the inner slider (4) is moved back into the slider junction (20), as when the cubicle is opening. The resilient brush strip seal (17) will remain in that flexed position until the inner slider (4) is moved outwards, as when the cubicle is in use.
The front vertical panel (6), back vertical panel (3) and divider panel (2) can be HPL Board. The front vertical panel (6) can be covered with an aluminum protective layer. Alternatively, the front vertical panel (6) can be covered with glass to function as a full length mirror enabling the user to check his or her dress before leaving the toilet or shower, as the case may be. Application of Invention to shower cubicles
As mentioned earlier, the inventive slider junction (20) and slider system can also be implemented for shower cubicles. A brief illustration of how the slider system works for shower cubicles is given herein, since the basic principles of the working of the slider system is the same. Since the single slider concept for a pair of shower cubicles is exactly the same, the same features are given the same reference numerals. In the case of shower cubicles, the material used for the divider panel (2) and inner slider (4) and outer slider (5) are frosted glass. The front vertical panel (6) and back vertical panel (3) can also be either aluminum or stainless steel. It is possible a mirror be installed on the face of the front vertical panel (6). Where differences exist between the structure of a slider system for a shower cubicle and a toilet cubicle, these are highlighted.
Fig 34 to Fig 46 shows a single slider for each cubicle. Like the case of a double slider, the one or more pair of shower cubicles have a double slider, one for each side of the cubicle, parked within the slider junction. Fig. 34 is a perspective view from the top of a system for a single slider for each shower cubicle. A shower head is shown in each shower cubicle. If each slider (4,5) is slided into the slider junction (20), both cubicles would be in an opened position. In the opened position for both cubicles, the slider (4,5) for one cubicle [outer slider (5)] and the slider (4,5) for the other cubicle [inner slider (4)] and front vertical panel (6) and back vertical panel (3) are all inside the slider junction (20). A little portion of one slider (4,5) will stick out so as to allow the user to grip the slider (4,5) and slide it close, for use. The entire slider junction (20) is enclosed with aluminum vertical front vertical panel (6) and aluminum back vertical panel (3), for aesthetic as well as actual support. It can be seen the back vertical panel (4) is joined to the divider panel (2) by means of a U channel (1 ). By forming a T- junction, rigidity and strength is given to the divider panel (2) and single slider system, enabling the slider junction (20) to house the inner slider (4) and outer slider (5).
Fig. 35 is a front view from the top of a system for a single slider for each cubicle. (The shower heads are not shown).
Fig. 36 is a front view of the two cubicles with a system for a single slider for each shower cubicle.
Fig. 37 is a sectional view of a cubicle as seen from the side. The shower head is shown.
Fig. 38 is a cross section view of the system for a single slider for each cubicle, at the top of the cubicle. Fig. 39 is a side view of the divider for the system for a single slider for each cubicle, showing the slider system at the bottom of the shower cubicle. The joints at each end of the panel divider (2) is shown with sealant, to keep out water. Fig. 40 is a top view of the divider panel (2) between two shower cubicles. Unlike the toilet cubicles, the bottom of the slider system is joined to a bottom rail (12) and frame, to prevent water from flowing out of the shower cubicle.
Fig. 41 is a top view of the pair of shower cubicles (30) taken along 1 - 1 of the top of the two cubicles with each single slider (4,5) fully slided out of the slider junction (20).
Fig. 42 is a cross section view of the pair of shower cubicles (30) taken along 2 - 2 near the top of the two cubicles with each single slider (4,5) fully slided out of the slider junction (20).
Fig. 43 is a cross section taken along A-A in Fig 41 , with the single slider (4,5) fully slided out of the single slider system for one cubicle Fig. 44 is a cross section taken along B-B in Fig 42, with the single slider (4,5) fully slided out of the single slider system for the other cubicle.
Fig. 45 is a cross section view of the stopper for a single slider system. This figure is a detailed view of " E " in Fig. 34. Variations in slider system
The key inventive feature of the sliding door system is the configuration of sliders (4,5) in the slider junction (20). While the preferred embodiment describes a slider junction (20) comprising a front vertical panel (6) and back vertical panel (3) in which an inner slider (4) and outer slider (5) runs along an inner track (23) and an outer track (24) of a top hung longitudinal rail (7), it is possible to have a slider junction (20) with one vertical panel, in between an outer slider (5) and an inner slider (4), as shown in Fig. 33.
Various embodiments of the roller assembly (21 ) are also envisaged. The roller assembly (21 ) has rolling means (22) for movement along the track of the top hung longitudinal rail (7). The roller means (22) can be a roller or a circular wheel or a round bearing. If the rail is square or rectangular in cross section, the roller means (22) can be a circular wheel or a round bearing of appropriate dimension, the circular wheel or round bearing moving slidingly along the upper side of the rail.
Different types of shapes of the rail are also envisaged in this invention. The rail can be circular in cross section or square or rectangular in cross section.
While an embodiment of the invention have been described in detail, and various other embodiments discussed briefly, it should be apparent, however, that other modifications, rearrangements, substitutions alterations and adaptations in addition to these embodiments may occur to persons skilled in the art with the attainment of some or all of the advantages of the present invention. Accordingly, it should be clearly understood that the present invention is not intended to be limited by the particular features and structures hereinbefore described and depicted in the accompanying drawings. It is therefore intended to cover all such modifications, alterations and adaptations without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.
ADVANTAGEOUS EFFECTS OF THE INVENTION
A slider door system for a cubicle will allow users who are bigger in size to enter the toilet or shower cubicle with ease .
A slider door system will also be convenient for handicapped persons and it is possible to install cubicles for handicap persons in the main toilet without the need for separate toilet cubicle for handicap persons, thus integrating such people with other users.
A slider door system for cubicles would be advantageous for use in airports, where users of toilets have to push their trolley with luggage into the toilets, for security reasons.
A slider door system for cubicles would also enhance security in toilets as security personnel can easily slide open the sliding door to check if anyone is hiding inside the toilet. Finally, the saving of at least 0.4 m 2 for each cubicle could result in lower costs of installation for toilet and shower facilities or more cubicles per toilet/shower facility.
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