The present invention relates to the art of construction and interior decoration, and in particular to the mounting of frames from bended sheet metal, such as frames for bearingdoors or windows in or on a wall.

Frames are usually delivered as several separate profiles, which together, after mounting, form a unit. For example, two vertical jambs and a head to be installed horizontally can be mounted in an existing wall opening such that a doorcan subsequently be installed in the frame.

Two-piece (metal) frames consisting of a front side and a counterside are known in the art. A door leaf can hereby be attached to the front side of the two-piece frame, by means of hinges installed on one side of the wall opening. The counterside of the two-piece frame is then installed on the other side of the wall opening to cover the wall further. Apart from breaking down the entire frame in, for example, one or more pieces to be mounted separately, for example, one or more pieces per jamb/head, each component in turn may consist of a separate front and counterside. The attachment system described in the present description may, for example, be particularly suitable for mounting said type of two-piece frames, but is not exclusively restricted to this, as is also described in the detailed description below.

In an ideal situation a wall opening is a rectangular opening with vertical sides and a perpendicular head joint in between. The reveals (the narrow end surfaces in the wall opening) are hereby deemed to be perpendicular to the wall surfaces. However, in practice there are many deviations. The wall opening may be slanted in one or more directions and/or the head joint may not be completely square to the vertical sides. The reveals may be slanted, show convex and/or concave deformation, and/or the distance between the two vertical sides of the opening may deviate from a regular, constant distance (width of the opening) over the entire height. Such deviations from an ideal situation the accurate and firm attachment of a frame to the wall to be difficult, and the installation of the frame to be time-consuming and requiring a lot of craftsmanship.

Thus, there is a need for goad means and techniques for attaching a frame to the wall, for example, by compensating deviations relative to the ideal wall opening in a simple and robust manner.

A conventional method for mounting door frames comprises the use of mounting foam to fill the space between frame and wall. Examples of this can be found in, among others, DE202015106530 and WO2016034429. Such approach allows a quick and robust installation, but the used mounting foam may contain unwanted harmful substances for people, animal and/or environment. An additional problem with the use of mounting foam is that the expanding foam may end up on the paint of the frame, which may be difficult to remove and may even cause permanent discolouration or damage of the paint. That is why there is a need in the art for mounting systems that do not require mounting foam, and which preferably also allow a quick, robust and precisely adjustable installation of a door frame

The frames are often provided with metal supports, for example welded hereto, whereby the space between the supports and the wall can be filled with (for example, wooden) blocks or shims. For example, a wooden plank, wooden shim blocks or a completely wooden frame can first be attached to the wall, over which subsequently the (for example metal) frame is installed, for example by attaching with nails, screws or glue. However, this is a time-consuming method, requiring a lot of additional precise bespoke work and/or sawing to size, on the site, of such shim blocks. Even if the shim wood is prepared beforehand, a large number of shim pieces with different dimensions and thicknesses is necessary on the site, if, as is often the case, a large number of doors need to be installed, resulting in a logistics burden and possible confusion .

When using shims, as described in DE102016114966, EP2333221, EP2290186, and EP3342970, for example, the assumption is often that the reveals of the wall are oriented perpendicularly relative to the wall surface and that the wall opening is perfectly perpendicular, as must be the case ideally. In case of an uneven or slanted reveal, the frame is also screwed on the wall slantedly because typically the shim has a constant thickness. When the reveal substantially differs at, for example, three different heights (across a single vertical frame jamb) , the frame profile may be warped in the wall opening, such that the (for example three) hinges are no longer perfectly collinearly positioned, resulting in friction upon swinging the door and faster wear and tear

(and in the end damage),

A variant of the use of shim blocks relates to methods with wedges to accommodate the differences between wall and frame. However, this does not provide a good solution for attaching the counterframe in case of thicker walls. In addition, the attachment remains visible, which is less desirable, and attaching the frame remains problematic when the reveals of the wall are not perfectly square to the wall surface and/or when the wall is slanted,

Alternatively, a system with adjustment screws can be used to bridge the many different distances between the wall and the frame. An example of this can be found in DE19900095. However, accurately adjusting said screws is also timeconsuming, and the screws may also loosen over time, for example due to vibrations that may be caused by slamming doors ,

Another example is described in FR2981680. However, the disadvantage of this approach is that said system with adjustment screws requires frames with a separate stop bead and is only applicable when the reveals of the wall opening are sufficiently perpendicular to the wall surface, When the reveals are irregularly shaped, the support points of the screw system will also have a deviation relative to the ideal (square) orientation, such that the frame is also screwed slantedly in the wall opening. Deviations between the adjustment plates and the wall need to be filled in turn, such that the underlying problem is only moved. In addition, this approach may require a relatively large number of screws, which thus also need to be adjusted. For thick walls in particular, this approach soon becomes too complex for practical use and efficient production.

The method described in CH707518 uses self-tapping screws in combination with an.attachment element formed out of a thin steel plate. However, a disadvantage of this is that the screw is only held in said thin plate by a single revolution of the thread. In addition, a pattern of four open holes is used, such that, every screw is not engaged all the way around. This system can be disadvantageous for heavy doors and/or in case of intensive use, as in such situations great forces may act on a small edge of the thin attachment element. A screw that is not inserted squarely to the metal sheet, but thus at an angle, may also twist and/or shift the frame somewhat. Also, when screwing, the screw head may press the attachment element further toward the wall than is desirable, such that the frame is no longer in the correct position. Furthermore, tightening said screw too tightly or repeatedly may deform or damage the openings in the steel plate, such that, the screw can no longer be tightened or unscrewed . NL 2 001 812 C2 describes a method for mounting a wooden window frame, in an opening in a wall provided to this end. AT 360 220 B also relates to a wooden frame.

US 7 086 204 B2 relates to the mounting of an explosion- resistant window in profile steel. The window is hereby attached to the wall with a normal screw, and shim wood is used to accommodate the tolerances of the wall opening, whereby such shim wood needs to be sawn to size of the specific wall opening. CH 571 145 A5 and US 2016/340890 Al also offer examples of known methods whereby a normal screw is used. However, it is a disadvantage of these exemplary methods that the use of shim wood is time-consuming and unhandy, as typically it needs to be sawn to size on site. In the case of US 2016/340890 Al, there is no space to fill (or to bridge) between wall and profile, but this is, in essence, even less easily applicable in practice. These disadvantages can be solved in embodiments according to the present invention by, among others, the use of spacing screws

TheT difference between a conventional, screw and a spacing screw needs to be emphasised hereby. An important point of difference is the presence of a head in a normal screw. More specifically, the head forms a flange-shaped, radially protruding, part of the normal screw that allows the screw to be screwed tightly against the element in which it is directly (thus to the front on the head-side) screwed. It will be clear that this creates a tension which keeps together and securely connects the respective components the screw penetrates in and/or through like a compact package. This can therefore also be considered an essential characteristic for the efficient, operation of systems as specified in the aforementioned documents according to the state of the art.

Embodiments of the present invention, on the other hand, use spacing screws, whereby the lack of a head (such flangeshaped radial protrusion) ensures that the screwed together components are not (substantially) compressed. On the contrary, the relative distance of the screwed together components is substantially retained and maintained by applying the spacing screw (hence also the name obviously). A spacing screw does not necessarily possess a screw thread over the entire length. For example, a piece of screw thread can be provided at both ends, but not in the middle. In particular this allows the spacing screw to be secured in both a lower element and an upper element (without tightening them toward each other, as would be the case with a conventional screw), but (for example) slightly or not affecting and/or moving a central element, e.g. a centrally installed block.

It is an object of embodiments of the present invention to provide a good, robust, efficient and/or simple anchoring of a frame to a bearing structure, such as, for example, a 'wall.

Whereas the present description is chiefly aimed at, and illustrated by, a device and method for installing and attaching a door frame to a wall, it will be clear for the person skilled in the art that embodiments are not necessarily restricted to this, and. for example are also applicable to other frame types, such as for bearing a window, a fence or a swinging door, and/or for attaching to a type of bearing structure other than a wall, such as a support beam.

It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that the use of mounting foam and/or glue can be avoided. Mounting foam and/or glue may contain unwanted harmful substances and/or may damage the paint of the frame. Mounting foam can also not prevent the deformation of the frame in case of exposure to heat. is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that they allow a quick and efficient installation of the frame.

It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that they allow mounting in an existing wall opening, which possibly is already completely finished.

It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that they allow mounting in many different wall types, for example, in substantially all commonly used wall types.

It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that they allow installing the frame together with the door leaf, such that the frame is inherently sufficiently square and perpendicular, is not warped and sufficient play is provided around to allow good door movement. In addition, this can prevent a lot of bespoke work, with added advantages in terms of efficiency.

It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that they allow shims, for example wooden sheets and/or blocks, don't need to be sawed to size, on site, resulting- in time savings and increased efficiency, More particularly, shims or time-consuming adjustment systems to accommodate the difference in distance between the wall (for example with surface irregularities) and the frame can be avoided. It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that screws without a head are used, such that screwing the screw too tightly does not affect the position of the frame, for example by pushing the frame too far or too tightly against the wall. Because a firm attachment is obtained without increasing tension on the frame, deformation and/or moving of the frame can be avoided, such that, for example, the alignment of the hinges in one line is not disturbed.

It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that a proper installation of a door frame can be obtained in a wall opening with irregular wall surfaces and/or in imperfectly formed door openings. For example, no direct contact is required between the mounting bracket and the (possibly slanted) wall.

It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that an installed frame can be simply disassembled again and reused and/or recycled, for example.

It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that they allow an attachment system according to embodiments o be pre-attached to the frame profiles, such that no loose pieces need to be mounted and/or adjusted on the site.

It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that they allow the attachment system according to embodiments to be directly attached, for example welded, to the frame on the level of the hinge points, such that the weight of the door leaf can be optimally transferred to the wall, tor example to obtain a strong and robust connection in case of heavy and/or Intensively used doors.

It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that they allow a metal component (for example in the form of a C-shaped profile) of an attachment device according to embodiments to be provided with several holes, such that an installer has some, degree of freedom to choose the most suitable attachment point (s) in a specific situation. It is therefore also an advantage that regular components, which can be manufactured in large numbers, are suitable for a wide range of possible frames, door openings, walls and specific application scenarios. It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that an attachment system is provided whereby screw connections can be applied at (an) angle(s) to be freely determined, such that in practice an installer can determine an optimal angle for drilling screws into the wall. For example, several screws can be applied in one and the same mounting bracket at different angles, such that a very strong connection can be obtained.

It. is an advantage that, by using a solid piece, such as a wooden block, retaining screws are firmly engaged. For example, when using only a sheet steel bracket, a screw would only be engaged over one revolution of the thread, while a relatively thick piece of wood engages and firmly holds several (to relatively many) revolutions. It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that, they allow a solid part, such as a wooden block, to be simply replaced or repaired on site, for example when predrilled holes are too big or are incorrectly positioned, or when screwing and unscrewing a screw several times weakened the material such that it is not possible to obtain sufficient strength anymore. For example, the block can be simply replaced by a spare, or a bigger hole can be drilled in the block which subsequently is filled with a (for example hardwood) peg (glued if relevant). A system that only uses a metal mounting bracket does not allow an on site repair for example.

It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that they allow an anchoring of a frame to be obtained which is particularly robust. For example it was established that the screw connections in said system do not (or only with great difficulty) come loose due to vibrations as a result of slamming doors.

It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that they allow the installation of a door frame that is suitable to bear heavy doors and/or for intensive use.

It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that they allow a cavity between the wall and the frame, after mounting with the system as described herein, to be filled with an acoustic damping material, such as for example rockwool. For example, when only a hollow metal bracket(s) is used for mounting a frame, the remaining cavity is difficult to fill with rockwool sufficiently, while using a polyurethane foam will result in poorer acoustic damping. By using a mounting bracket in which a wooden block is clamped,, a better acoustic insulation can be obtained, as no cavity remains in the bracket that needs to be separately filled, while cavities next to said shim block are more easily accessible and can be filled with (for example) a fibrous material .)

It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that unwanted deformation of the door frame can be avoided, while still obtaining a firm attachment of the frame to the wall .

A device and/or method according to embodiments of the present invention realises the abovementioned objective.

In a first aspect the present invention relates to an anchoring device for attaching a metal frame, from bended sheet metal, to a bearing structure. The anchoring device camprises a metal bracket and a block, whereby the block is clamped and/or glued in the bracket such that the bracket and the block strengthen each other. The bracket is adapted to allow drilling through the block from a front side of the block to a facing rear side of the block without hereby touching the bracket such that one or several spacing screws can be screwed through the block in the bearing structure without making contact between the block and the bearing structure. The spacing screws therefore do not push the frame, when attaching, toward the bearing structure, such that no unwanted tension and/or possible deformation is created. The block does not have to be adapted to the size of the opening between the bearing structure and the frame either, as it only serves to strengthen the anchoring device. The correct spacing is hereby, on the other hand, substantially guaranteed by the advantageous use of spacing screws.

In an anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention, the bracket may comprise a surface which forms the front side of the bracket. A plurality of holes can be provided in said surface to allow drilling through the block via said holes.

In an anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention, the plurality of holes may comprise at least a first hole and a second hole which are located on either side of the front side of the bracket such that they also come to be located on either side of a door stop when the anchoring device is used.

In an anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention, the bracket may be made of a metal or a metal alloy.

In an anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention, the block may comprise a solid wooden block, a plywood strip, and/or a block of a composite or synthetic material.

In an anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention, the rear side of the block may remain largely uncovered by the bracket, such that the bracket allows drilling through the block from the front side of the block without hitting the bracket on the rear side.

In an anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention, the bracket may have a U-shape or C-shape, such that the block is at least partially enveloped and clamped by the bracket.

In an anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention, the opening of the C-shape or U-shape may be positioned on the rear side of the block.

In an anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention, the legs of the U-shape may have unequal lengths, and the shorter leg may cover a part of the rear side of the block.

In an anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention, the bracket may be adapted to horizontally or vertically orient the C-shape or U-shape, in case the anchoring device is used, whereby the opening of the C- or U-shape is oriented toward the bearing structure.

In an anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention, grooves may be provided in the block, and the ends of the C-shaped bracket can hook into said grooves.

An anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention may comprise several brackets which clamp at least two (different) edges of the block and hereby leave the front and rear side of the block largely uncovered by the brackets (for example at least 50%, for example at least. 75%, for example at least 80%, for example at least for 90%).

In an anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention, the width of the bracket may substantially correspond with the width of the block in at least one direction.

An anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention may comprise one or several spacing screws for screwing through the block into the bearing structure, and hereby anchoring the block to the bearing structure without the bearing structure and the block hereby (necessarily) touching each other. This results in an anchoring of the frame, when the frame in turn is fastened to the bracket or when the bracket is integrally formed from the frame profile.

In a second aspect the present invention relates to a frame device. The frame device comprises at least a profile section of a frame (for example may comprise a complete frame, for example in separate profile sections). The frame device comprises at least an anchoring device according to embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention. The bracket of the anchoring device is hereby attached to the profile section or the bracket is hereby integrally formed in the profile section.

The profile section is made of metal (or a metal alloy) The frame is thus a metal frame, in particular, the frame can be made of bended sheet metal. In a frame device according to embodiments of the present invention, the profile section can be a front side of a two- piece frame, whereby the bracket is attached to the profile section, or is integrally formed herein, such that a cantilevered section of the block and/or of the bracket protrudes to the side where a counterside of the two-piece frame needs to be installed.

A frame device according to embodiments of the present invention may further comprise the counterside oi. the two- piece frame.

A frame device according to embodiments of the present invention may further comprise a door stop (stop bead), whereby the door stop is integrally formed in the profile section or, as a loose component, is adapted for mounting on the profi1e section.

In a frame device according to embodiments of the present invention, one or several holes may be provided in the frame profile in a position overlapping a hole or holes in the bracket .

In a third aspect, this invention relates to a method for attaching a frame to a bearing structure. The method comprises providing an anchoring device (and/or a frame device comprising such anchoring device) according to embodiments of the present invention, whereby the bracket of the anchoring device is attached to a profile section of the frame or is already integrally formed herein. The method also comprises the positioning and/or temporary affixing of the frame in a wall opening, and applying spacing screws through the block of the anchoring device up into the bearing structure, such that the block is immovably anchored to the bearing structure, without the block and the bearing structure (having to) touch (ing) each other.

The independent and dependent claims describe specific and preferred characteristics of the invention. Characteristics of the dependent claims can be combined with characteristics of the independent claims and with characteristics of other dependent claims as appropriate and not necessarily only as indicated in the claims.

FIG 1 shows an exemplary frame construction as known in the art .

FIG 2, FIG 3 and FIG 4 reap, show a front, side and top view of a part of a frame, wherein an anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention is applied. In addition, FIG 4 shows an exploded detail of said top view. FIG 5, FIG 6 and FIG 7 reap. show front, side and top views of the anchoring of the frame profile by means of spacing screws screwed in, and through, the anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention.

FIG 8 shows two exemplary types of spacing screws that may be applied in combination with an anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention (or which can be part of the anchoring device). Typically, such spacing screws possess a typical screw thread at both ends, but not necessarily in the middle, and do not have a head (in other words no head within the meaning of a radial protrusion and/or flange to tighten the screw firmly against the element in which it is screwed)~

FIG 9 and FIG 10 resp. show a side and top view of the completed frame construction, whereby, after anchoring the frame profile, which forms the front side of the frame, a complementary counterside of the frame was mounted using the anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention .

FIG 11 illustrates the mounting of a frame on an irregular wall (with irregular reveals) using an anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention. Please note that the bracket with the block does not (necessarily have to) touch the wall.

FIG 12 shows an anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention with an alternative orientation of a C-shaped bracket component.

FIG 13 shows an anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention with several brackets.

FIG 14 shows an anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention with a bracket that hooks into a groove of the block.

FIG 15 shows an embodiment of the present invention whereby the bracket of the anchoring device is integrally formed by a frame profile.

FIG 16 shows an application of an anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention to anchoring a one- piece frame.

FIG 17 shows an application of an anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention to anchoring a frame in a wall opening, without the wall around the wall opening being hidden and overlapped by the frame profiles. FIG 18 shows an attachment of a frame using an anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention, whereby a stop bead is applied as separately mountable element on the frame profile.

The figures are schematic and not limiting. Elements in the figures are not necessarily shown to scale. The present invention is not limited to the possible specific embodiments according to the present invention as shown in the figures.

Regardless of the exemplary embodiments described below, the present invention is only restricted by the enclosed claims. The claims attached are hereby explicitly included in this detailed description, whereby every independent claim forms a separate embodiment of the present invention.

The term "comprises", as used in the claims, is not restricted to the characteristics, elements or steps described thereinafter and does not. exclude additional characteristics, elements or steps. This therefore specifies the presence of the specified characteristics, without excluding a further presence or addition of one or more characteristics .

In this detailed description numerous specific details are set forth. Embodiments of the present invention can be realised without these specific details. In addition, well- known characteristics, elements and/or steps may not be described in detail in the interest of clarity and conciseness . In a first aspect the present invention provides an anchoring device for attaching a frame, such as a door frame, to a bearing structure, such as a wall.

The anchoring device is characterised by a (e.g. wooden} block clamped or glued in a metal bracket, such that both said parts form an undeformable and integral unit (e.g. manufactured as such in a factory prior to use on a site). This composed element can thus form an undeformable unit with a frame profile. When mounting there is no contact between on the one hand, the wall and on the other hand the composed element (block with bracket) , or at most exceptionally and coincidentally, which preferably can be avoidable .

FIG 1 shows an exemplary frame construction as known in the art, without necessarily restricting embodiments to this. The frame provides a fitting connection and (pivotable) attachment of (for example) a door leaf 5 to a wall 4 (or other bearing structure), for example in a wall opening. The frame may be composed of several parts, such as two vertical jambs and a horizontal head 1,2, for example a top rail (or crossrail) . When mounting a (single) door a distinction can be made between a vertical lock jamb 1 on the one side and a vertical hinge jamb 2 on the other side, which are adapted to provide respectively a (receiving part of a) door lock and to attach door hinges 8 thereto.

The frame may for example consist of several separate pieces, such as the vertical jambs 1.2 and the head 3, or a further breakdown thereof, or another subdivision of the frame in pieces which, once mounted together, form the frame. Such pieces may for example comprise U-shaped frame profiles, or form such U-shaped frame profiles in combination, for example through a combination of two (approximately) L-shaped pieces. "U-shaped" hereby refers to a form whereby an open cavity is formed by a convexity of the form, and "L-shaped" to, generally speaking, an angular or (for example single) curved form. This type of profiles is well known in the art. It is customary to select or adapt the cavity formed in such U-shaped profile,, or through a combination of adjoining L- shaped profiles based on the width of a wall or other bearing structure, (if relevant taking into account some required play), such that the profile can slide at least a little over said bearing structure (or can be installed with such overlap) . Part of the bearing structure may hereby thus be inserted and hidden in the cavity of the profile (or formed through a combination of the profiles) , such that the bearing structure appears to transition and to end in the profile (s), at first sight _f where the wall opening framed by the frame is formed.

A device for frame attachment according to embodiments of the present invention can be particularly suitable for application in a two-piece door frame, but is not necessarily limited to this. More specifically, the device can also be used for other frame types, for example may be advantageously applicable for many different frame types and specific situations in practice. Two-piece frames consisting of a front, side 6, to which the door leaf 5 is attached by means of hinges 8, and a counterside 7. The front side 6 is installed on one side of the wall in a wall opening, while the counterside 7 is installed along the other side, such that the wall 4 is covered on either side.

As known in the art, a frame, or at least the profiles from which it is made, may be manufactured from metal, more specifically (a) bended sheet metal.

At least one anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention (for example one, two, three or more) may be used per vertical jamb of the frame to firmly anchor the frame to the bearing structure, for example a wall. The number of anchoring devices that is used can be determined depending on the application, such as for example based on the dimensions of the frame and/or the weight that needs to be borne by the frame, for example of the door.

It must also be noted hereby that one single anchoring device can be executed relatively wide, such that said anchoring device on its own may suffice for mounting a vertical jamb. A 'relatively wide' anchoring device may for example span at least 25%, for example at least 40% of the length of the profile section of the frame to be mounted herewith (for example of a vertical jamb), for example at least 50%, or even more, such as 75% or more, may for example substantially span the entire length. It goes without saying that the anchoring device is only optionally 'relatively wide', and embodiments in which several relatively short anchoring devices are divided over a profile section are certainly not excluded. Whatever the case the figures, as aforementioned, are not necessarily drawn to scale and in the right proportions.

An anchoring device according to embodiments can be provided with several rows and/or groups of holes (provided for applying screws, as described below) _, which, in a wider embodiment, can be spaced relatively far from each other to provide sufficient support (points) over a significant part of the height of the frame.

Referring to FIG 2, the anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention for attaching a frame to a bearing structure comprises a bracket 9, and a block 12 that is clamped or glued in said bracket.

The metal bracket 9 can be attached (or be suitable to be attached when using the system) to the frame. This bracket can, for example, be welded to a (profile section of a) metal frame. It will also be clear for the person skilled in the art that said bracket could also be integrally formed as part of the frame (for example as component of a profile section of the frame), according to some embodiments of the present invention.

The bracket 9 may be attached (for example welded) to, or integrally formed in, a profile section of the frame, like on/in the front side 6 of a two-piece frame (or on/in a component which, when mounted, is part of the front side of the two-piece frame). "Two-piece" should not be interpreted here as a frame consisting exclusively of two pieces, for example considering that the front and counterside, may be further subdivided into components. It will also be clear that embodiments of the present invention may also be applicable to other frame types.

For example, referring to FIG 16, an anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention can also be applied to a one-piece frame (i.e. a frame whereby no breakdown in front and counterside, but there is possibly in separate jambs, a head and/or a further longitudinal breakdown thereof is provided).

A further example of a possible application is shown in FIG 17. The frame is hereby not installed such that the edges of the wall opening are covered, but the frame is completely installed inside a precisely executed opening without overlap. This may be executed with a one-piece frame, for example, whereby a lock jamb, a hinge jamb and a head are first connected in their tangent corners (for example by screwing or welding), to then be installed together in the wall opening. After anchoring via the anchoring device (s) according to embodiments of the present invention, the joints between the wall and the frame may then, for example, be finished with a suitable grout, for example an elastic silicone kit.

It will be clear that several of the devices for frame attachment according to embodiments may be combined with the frame or the components of the frame to form a mountable or (for example already partially) mounted construction set. Embodiments may, for example, relate to a frame, for example consisting of loose and/or premounted components, and at least one, preferably several, of the devices for frame attachment according to embodiments. Several of the brackets may be hereby attached to (or integrally formed in) a profile section to be installed vertically, for example three per vertical side of the frame. The number per vertical side, as well as other parameters, such as choice of material, thickness, dimensions, etc., of the brackets may be chosen depending on the application, such as the weight and the dimensions of the door to be installed. The brackets may for example be mounted on the level of the hinges (or the mounting points provided for the hinges on the frame) (without any limiting nature).

The block 12 may, for example, be a wooden block. It is an advantage that this, in combination with wood screws (in other words screws adapted for screwing into wood; for example a spacing screw as described), allows a firm mounting of the frame. For example, a strip of plywood or a block of solid wood (for example hardwood) can be held and/or clamped in the bracket 9. Other materials for the block 12 are not excluded. For example, apart from sheet material (for example plywood) and solid wood (for example hardwood), the block 12 may also (alternatively or supplementarily) comprise a synthetic material or composite material.

The bracket 9 may be a U-shaped or C-shaped bracket which envelops (and preferably also clamps) the block (at least partially) , for example along at least three sides of which at least two facing sides relative to each other. The block 12 may, for example, be slid into the bracket, after which the bracket is compressed, such that the block and the bracket together form a strong unit that cannot (or only slightly or difficultly) be deformed. For example, a "C- shaped bracket" is shown in (among others,) FIG 2, FIG 3 and FIG 4.

The side surfaces (upstanding surfaces) of said U-shaped bracket may or may not have the same length. For example, as shown, it may be advantageous to make the rear side (in use oriented to the reveal of the wall) shorter than the front side (in use attached to the profile; provided with holes 10,11), such that it is easier to avoid said rear side with a drill when drilling through the block 12.

The device according to embodiments may also comprise several brackets 9, for example as shown in FIG 13. In this example, without any limiting nature, two (three or four is also possible) of the (in this example facing) edges of the block are strengthened by U-shaped brackets. This not only leaves the rear side substantially uncovered over a large fraction of its surface, but also applies, in similar fashion, to the front side. In this example it is thus not necessary to explicitly provide holes in a front side of the bracket, cf. surface A, and the installer has a lot of freedom to determine a suitable drilling position through the block. Nevertheless, the bracket 9, or the combination of brackets in this example, increases the strength of the block 12, and vice versa. The device may be provided with the block 12 already clamped firmly in the bracket 9 (or brackets), in other words compressing and clamping the block can be done in advance (for example in case of industrial manufacture) . Nevertheless, embodiments whereby the bracket and the block are.provided as loose components or only slightly compressed, are not excluded. For example, it may be advantageous to offer the installer the possibility to choose on site a block 12 from different available alternatives (for example different materials), depending on the situation. The installer may, for example, be provided with adapted pliers to compress the bracket around the block with sufficient force on site. However, it needs to be noted that an approach whereby the block is pre-mounted in the bracket, for example in a factory, may also be very advantageous, for example with a view to consistency and strength.

The block 12 may thus be clamped in, for example, a C-shaped bracket 9, for example over its entire length. The length of the block 12 and the bracket 9 may thus substantially be the same, and the bracket may be aligned relative to the block and, by compressing, form a strong and (substantially) undeformable unit with the block. It is an advantage of a C-shaped bracket that small edges of the bracket on the rear side of the block (facing surface A) can clamp the block, such that the block is firmly held. However, a wide strip may remain open between said folded over edges, such that when drilling through the block there is no (or little) risk of hitting the bracket material on said rear side of the block. The orientation of the C-shaped bracket (or, similarly, of a U-shaped bracket) may differ from the orientation shown in FIG 2. The opening of the C-shape (or U-shape) is, in use, oriented toward the bearing structure 4, but the open sides (on either sides of the block in the direction perpendicular to the plane in which the C- or U-shaped profile are outlined) may be oriented horizontally, to the front and counterside of the frame (see FIG 2), and vertically (see FIG 12; however, note that: the view of FIG 12 corresponds with that of FIG 4, not with that of FIG 2).

FIG 2, FIG 3 and FIG 4 show the device according to embodiments in complementary orthogonal planes, in a configuration as intended for mounting in a frame. Referring to FIG 3, the width b of the bracket (preferably substantially also corresponding with the width of the block) may, for example, (approximately) correspond with the width B of the reveals of the wall 4 (in other words with the thickness of the wall). This, however, is not necessary.

As shown, the upstanding edges of a U- or C-shaped bracket 9, in use (thus mounted in the intended orientation), may clamp the block 12 between its vertical overlying and underlying sides. Embodiments are not limited hereto. The upstanding edges of the bracket may for example also clamp the block between horizontally facing side surfaces of the bracket (see FIG 12). in a further example, see FIG 14, the block 12 is only enclosed over a section d' of its thickness d by the bracket 9, for example by inserting a leg of the (C- or U-shaped) bracket in a corresponding groove of the block 12. FIG 14 shows an embodiment whereby this principle is combined with several brackets 9, cf. FIG 13, but this can also, subject to the necessary care, be applied to other examples (for example the single bracket in FIG 4), for example, by laterally sliding the block (via the grooves) into the bracket .

The bracket may comprise a surface A which covers a corresponding surface of the block (for example is in direct contact herewith over at least a substantial section of said surface) . In the example of a C-shaped bracket, the bracket comprises at least two further surfaces (or more accurately: at least two further surface segments which distinguish themselves from the segment A by a substantially different orientation) which are at an angle (for example a straight angle) relative to the surface A. These at least three surfaces (surface segments) together form a (for example partial; for example, open) cavity (in at least one dimension) in which the block is enclosed.

The surface A may be a flat surface (or a flat segment of a surface) , but embodiments are not necessarily restricted to this here. However, the person skilled in the art will appreciate that the use of a beam-shaped block 12 in combination with a bracket which comprises at least one flat piece A with substantially equal dimensions (or at least with some margin) to a surface of said beam shape may offer practical advantages. The connection between the bracket 9 and the block 12 may thus be obtained by (at least partly) compressing a curved and/or folded bracket (preferably metal bracket) around the block, but also, alternatively or supplementarily, by using (preferably environmentally"friendly) glue, screws, bolts and/or other connecting means.

In the surface A (regardless of whether the bracket substantially consists of this, or only forms a part thereof, like in a C~ or U-shaped bracket), a plurality of holes 10, 11 may be provided in (and through) the bracket, for example such that the opening of each hole gives access to the underlying material of the block 12.

The bracket 9 or brackets (see for example FIG 13) is/are at least securely connected to a part of the block 12, for example by gluing, mechanically connecting or squeezing, to increase its strength, while openings in the bracket (and/or an adapted positioning of the bracket relative to the block) allow drilling through the entire block. These openings may, for example, comprise the opening of the C-shape of the bracket 9 on the rear side in combination with the holes 10,11 (for example drilled holes) on the opposite front side (cf. surface A). Alternatively (however, not excluding any combinations of characteristics), several brackets may strengthen several edges of the block, such that both a central section of the rear side and of the front side (cf. surface A) of the block 12 remain exposed. For the sake of clarity, it needs to be noted that 'front side' (surface A) and 'rear side' refer to two opposite sides of the block (and corresponding parts of the bracket or brackets), which are oriented away from, respectively toward, the bearing structure when the device is used, in other words closer to the centre of the wall opening and closer to the reveal of the wall (or of a similar bearing structure) respectively. This needs to be distinguished from the ’front side' 6 and the ’counterside' 7 of a two-piece profile, as described supra and infra, and from - the characteristics discussed in this context.

Furthermore, embodiments whereby on the rear side a relatively large section of the block is also covered by the bracket, and whereby holes are also provided on this bigger rear side of the bracket, are not. excluded either. In that case, the holes on the rear side can be bigger than on the front side, to allow drilling from a hole on the front side at an angle (solid angle; within a cone) with some degree of freedom. The holes are not necessarily round either. In a further example (without any limiting nature) the holes on the rear side can have an elongated form (an aspect ratio of, for example, at least 3:2), in cases whereby freedom of (and variation of) the angle at which screws are applied is preferably greater in one direction than in the direction perpendicular thereto. By using thinner openings, freedom for placing the screws can be combined with additional robustness/strengthening . It also needs to be noted that the preference for one direction with more freedom for orienting the screws does not exclude that another opening on the rear side which corresponds with another hole on the front side (in other words another origin for inserting a screw) may be oriented differently. For example, on the rear side the holes may be provided in a cross pattern or at angles relative to each other. However, the disadvantage of this approach is that the installer needs to be well aware of the possible orientations for inserting screws in the different holes on the visible front side without hereby touching the rear side of the bracket.

Referring back to the holes which may be provided on the front side of the bracket, of. surface A, said holes may comprise at least a first hole 10 in a position corresponding with the front side of a two-piece frame and at least a second hole 11 on the counterside of the frame, in other words, on either side of the door stop 14 (stop bead). When applied for mounting a two-piece frame, the hole(s) 10 may thus be covered by the front side of the frame, while the hole(s) 11 on the other side of the door stop 14 remain (s) visible for now until the counterside 7 of the frame is also installed. Because the device in use is attached to, or already integrally formed in, a profile section intended for the front side 6 of the frame (in spite of possible applications on other frame types) for anchoring to the bearing structure, it may be advantageous to provide (at least) a hole 13 in said front side profile 6 in a position (s) corresponding with the position (s) of the first hole(s) 10. However, the second hole(s) 11 is/are uncovered at the time of anchoring to the bearing structure, considering that said holes are located in a cantilevered end 25 of the bracket 9 (protruding relative to the front side 6, to be covered afterwards with the counterside 7). Generally speaking, both groups 10,11 of holes are separated from each other along the width of the bracket (see width b of the bracket), whereby the space between both groups amounts to, for example, at least one centimetre, for example typically at least a couple of centimetres.

Preferably, several rows, for example at least two rows, of the holes 10,11 in the surface A can be provided above each other, for example at least two rows above each other on either side of the door stop 14. Furthermore, several columns of holes can be provided next to each other as well. For example, the number of columns of holes 11 on the counterside may vary depending on the thickness of the wall.

It needs to be noted that said holes 10,11 are not necessarily round (circular), as shown, but may have any form, such as oval-shaped, rectangular, square, etc. On the one hand, the purpose of said holes is to (roughly) indicate a position where the installer, when installing the frame in the uncovered block 12 may drill/screw, and on the other hand to not weaken the structural strength of the bracket too much (for example by retaining sufficient material between and around the holes). It needs to be noted that the stop bead 14 is not necessarily a fixed part of the frame profile. Referring to FIG 18, said stop bead may also be provided as a separate component, for inserting after anchoring the frame in the position provided to this end to finish the unit. In a second aspect the present invention relates to a frame device, which comprises a profile section of a frame and an anchoring device according to embodiments of the present invention. The frame device thus comprises at least a profile which is part of the frame, with the bracket 9 attached thereto (or the bracket integrally formed herein). More specifically, the bracket may be applied on the inside of the profile, whereby said inside (under normal circumstances) in the wall opening needs to be oriented toward the wall. Embodiments of the present invention may relate to a front side 6 of a two-piece frame (or the frontside profile section thereof), with the bracket 9 attached thereto (or the bracket integrally formed herein). Embodiments of the present invention are not restricted to such two-piece frames, but may be considered as exceptionally suitable for such application.

The bracket may be applied or formed on the inside, whereby said inside of the profile piece (of the front side profile 6) is adapted to be oriented to the reveal of the wall when installed (as intended) in a wall opening. Moreover, the block 12 is applied in (or to, or on) the bracket, such that the surface A of the bracket (at least a substantial part of surface A) is located between the enclosed block 12 and the front side-profile 6. Furthermore, the front side profile 6 may comprise the door stop 14, or a door stop 14 may be included as a loose component (for example in an embodiment construed as a kit of components), whereby the door stop 14 and the front side profile 6 are adapted for a mutual attachment. Obviously, embodiments may also comprise a counterside 7, whereby the front, and counterside 6,7 are adapted to form the two-piece frame together (however, a further subdivision in separate jambs and/or parts is not excluded).

FIG 15 shows an example whereby the bracket is integrally formed in the frame profile, for example in the front side 6 of a two-piece frame. The bracket can hereby be formed by the material forming the frame profile, such that no separate sheet (or other material) is needed to form the bracket. In this case, as already discussed above, the block 12 may be clamped in the bracket (formed by the frame profile) and/or attached thereto using for example glue, screws and/or another connecting means. In case a material for the block 12 is used that can be poured or formed, such as a suitable synthetic material or composite material, the cavity in the profile may also (at least partially; for example using limiting moulds temporarily installed in the profile section) be filled with said material, possibly in combination with a pre-treatment with an adhesive to stimulate the adhesion between the profile material and the poured or formed material of the block.

In a frame device according to embodiments of the present invention, the frame profile may also be provided with a hole or holes 13 which overlap with the at least one hole 10 on the front side (the hole or the group of holes along the width b). This hole or holes 13 in the frame profile may (optionally) be smaller than the underlying holes 10 in the bracket 9. For example, this may allow some degree of freedom in the direction in which a screw is inserted through the overlapping holes 13,10 in the frame profile and the bracket. Furthermore, the device may comprise at least one (preferably several) spacing screw 15 for attaching the frame profile 6 via the bracket 9 to the bearing structure 4. As shown in FIG 5, FIG 6 and FIG 7, said spacing screws 15 can be inserted via one of the holes 13 in the profile 6 and an overlapping hole 10,11 in the bracket 9, to hook into the underlying, bearing structure 4 through the block 12.

Different types of spacing screws 15 are. known in the art, and embodiments of the present invention are not necessarily limited to a specific type. FIG 8 shows two examples 15a,15b of such spacing screws which are known in the art. The spacing screw may be provided with screw thread over (substantially) its entire length, like in the example 15a, or, referring to example 15b, on the side of the tip a first section of the screw may be provided with thread and on the other side of the screw head a second section of the screw may be provided with thread, whereby both parts are separated from each other by a central section of the screw without thread. In this last example both sections are not necessarily provided with the same type (or the same specifications) of thread. For example, the thread on the side of the tip may be adapted for screwing into a wall, or a plug inserted in the wall. The screw thread on the screw head side may, for example, be shorter and/or have a greater diameter. The screw pitch of both sections may be aligned. Thus the screw may be efficiently inserted in the block 12, affixed in the wall 4, and (in the last phase of screwing) firmly hook into the block 12. When turning in the screw, said outer screw thread will thus dig into the block 12 (which was for example pre-drilled with smaller diameter than the holes 10,11 in the bracket).

Although the head of the spacing screw is referred to above, it will be clear that a spacing screw does not comprise a conventional screw head, within the meaning of a flangeshaped radial protrusion of the body at the head end. Due to the lack of such 'head’’ the spacing screw will thus not exercise any (substantial) pressure on the upper element in which it is screwed in, as would be the case when such flange of a conventional screw would be tightened against it. Obviously the spacing screw may comprise a head within the meaning of an engaging device for a screwdriver or screw drill, e.g. a crosshead, a hexagonal bolt form, or another engaging device as generally known in the art for transmitting an angular momentum when tightening the screw.

The spacing screw 15 can be provided with a suitable engaging element (such as a groove or other form of engaging cut-away portion) at the screw head end, such as a hexagonal opening or a so-called Torx opening (without any limiting nature). However, preferably the spacing screw 15 does not have a distinct head, such as for example a flat, sunken or round head, but the engaging element can practically continuously run through in the (upper) screw thread (in other words as known for spacing screws). It is an advantage that when tightening the screw no force is created which pushes the attachment device toward the bearing structure (for example the wall), which would be the case when using a screw with a read. The holes in the bracket 10,11 and in the profile 13 may be greater than the diameter of the spacing screw 15 (e.g. greater than the outer diameter of the widest screw thread of the spacing screw), for example with some margin, foxexample at least 20% wider, for example at least 50% wider, for example at least 100% wider (in other words at least double as wide), such that the installer has the freedom to determine an angle at which the screw is screwed into the wall (through said holes) when using the device. It is an advantage that the spacing screws do not have to come into contact with the bracket or with the frame during (and thus also after) tightening.

The device may also comprise at least one (preferably several) plug which is adapted for inserting in the bearing structure 4, whereby the spacing screw 15 is adapted to fit in the plug (for example according to commonly used correspondences between plug and screw thread sizes). However, this is optional. Depending on the type of bearing structure the use of plugs may or may not be required (or desirable) .

When mounting a frame using the attachment device (s) according to embodiments of the present invention, the frame may, for example, first be installed in the wall opening. It can hereby be correctly positioned and temporary affixed using screw clamps, wedges and/or the door leaf to be installed. It needs to be noted that the use of the door leaf for aligning and temporarily affixing the frame may be particularly advantageous, for example it may contribute to a high efficiency and an accurate installation. The attachment device (s) according to embodiments are hereby installed within, the frame (i.e. for example between the. reveal of the wall and a frame profile), in so far this was not already the case, for example because the attachment device was already attached during manufacture (for example welded) to a profile of the frame, or is even integrally formed as part of said profile.

Once the frame was correctly positioned, and preferably also sufficiently affixed, holes may be drilled through the block 12 and in the underlying wall. The holes 13 in the frame profile and the holes 10,11 in the bracket 9 can be used to help position the used drill.

Optionally, the block 12 may also be provided with predrilled holes, for example at positions corresponding with the positions of the holes 10,11 in the bracket 9. Typically, such pre-drilled holes may have a small diameter and/or are not necessarily made through the entire block 12. More specifically, the diameter may be less, or even significantly less, than the diameter of the thread of the spacing screws 15. This may contribute to a good orientation of the retaining screws upon mounting, for example by guiding the direction of a drill when drilling the eventual holes through the block and in the underlying wall. However, embodiments are not limited hereto. Indeed, it may also be advantageous to offer the installer more freedom to determine the desired position and orientation of the spacing screws, in other words without being hindered by such pre-drilled holes. The spacing screws 15 can be screwed into the drilled holes, through the block 12 and in the bearing structure 4. These screws secure themselves in the wall (with or without a plug) and in the block 12, such that the frame is anchored in the position in which it is installed (and/or temporarily affixed), without any tension or pressure being exercised on the frame by the screw.

The spacing screws 15 may be suitable for installation of wooden components, as is already known in the art. However, in an application of embodiments of the present invention, (for example) a metal profile may be installed, using such (standardised or at least customary) screws intended for mounting wooden components.

Preferably, several spacing screws (per anchoring device) can be screwed in somewhat different directions in the wood (and thus also in the underlying wall), for firmly attaching the frame to the wall, in other words, without any (substantial) remaining range of movement. The number of screws (per anchoring device) may correspond with the number of holes 10,11 provided in the bracket, or more holes may be provided to offer more freedom to the installer to select suitable positions for applying the screws.

The bracket 9 and the block 12 are not brought into contact with the wall, as shown in FIG 11. Consequently, irregular walls are not a problem for correctly mounting the frame. Even if the wall is sufficiently straight and even, it is not necessary to let the block 12 support on the bearing structure 4 (see FIG 10 for example). The dimensions of the block 12 may be adapted in embodiments of the present invention to only cover a limited section of the depth of the frame profile. For example, the bracket may, when attached (for example welded) to or integrally formed in the frame profile 6, reach to less than 75% of the distance D to the upstanding edge or edges of the profile (the depth D of the profile, see FIG 10 for example). The thickness d of the block 12 (possibly including the thickness of the bracket 9) may thus be, for example, less than 75%, or even less than 66%, for example between 40% and 60%, for example approximately half (50%) of the depth D of the profile. The thickness d refers to the thickness of the block (or of the block including the bracket 9) in the direction perpendicular to the surface A of the bracket.

After securing the front side 6 of the frame to the bearing structure using the spacing screws, the counterside 7 of the frame can also be installed in the wall opening, via the other side of the opening, see FIG 9, FIG 10 and FIG 11 for example) .

Referring back to FIG 4, the bracket 9 can hereby be formed in, or attached to (for example welded), to the front side 6 such that a (for example relatively small) groove-shaped space 26 is created between a cantilevered end 25 of the bracket 9 and an overlapping zone of the front side 6 of the frame. The counterside 7 of the frame can be slid into said space 26 between the cantilevered end 25 of the bracket and the overlapping zone of the front side of the frame The cantilevered end 25 refers to a part of the bracket that protrudes relative to the front side 6, more specifically in the direction of the other side of the wall (thus where the counterside 7 mounted is). The overlapping zone can, for example, be formed by the door stop 14, or at least a section thereof under which the seam separating the front side and the counterside, can be hidden.

The bracket, and thus the entire anchoring device, is hereby completely covered (in other words hidden) by the combination of the front side 6 and the counterside 7 of the frame, and the wall opening is completely overlapped by both sides of the frame.

As shown in FIG 10, the device may further comprise a clamping piece 20 to firmly secure the counterside 7 in all directions. This clamping piece may, for example, be welded to the counterside 7, or mounted hereon via a suitable connecting mechanism (for example with a screw, bolt, magnet or snap connection), such that said clamping piece 20, when attached to the counterside, clamps the block 12 (optionally including the bracket 9 attached partially around and/or to it) between the clamping piece and the counterside 7. More specifically the clamping piece may form, in combination with a surface of the profile forming the counterside 7, a U-shaped groove in which a cantilevered end of the block fits. For example, the cantilevered end 25 of the bracket in combination with the part of the block attached thereto or clamped therein, (or at least an end of said combination) may fit in said U-shaped groove.

After installing the front side 6 and counterside 7, a draught strip 19 may be mounted in the groove of the frame intended for this purpose. The groove for the draught strip 19 may, for example, be located in or on the door stop 14 on the facing side relative to the side where the groove 26, formed between the door stop 14 and the bracket 9, is located. This draught strip may be applied such that the hole or the holes 13 in the front side 6 of the frame are covered. Thus, after installation no more mounting points remain visible.

In a third aspect, the present invention relates to a method for attaching a frame 1 3 to a bearing structure 4.

The method comprises providing an anchoring device according to embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, whereby a bracket of said anchoring device is attached to a profile section of the frame or is integrally formed herein.

The method comprises positioning and/or temporary affixing the frame in a wall opening. The method comprises applying spacing screws 15 through the block 12 of the anchoring device into the bearing structure 4, such that the block is immovably anchored to the bearing structure. The block is hereby secured relative to the bracket, and the bracket is secured relative to the profile section (or is an integral component thereof), such that the profile section, by extension the frame, comes to be secured relative to the bearing structure.

Further optional characteristics of a method according to embodiments of the present invention based on the description above clearly relate to the first and second aspect of the present invention. In addition, further details of the aforementioned steps of the method are also described in more detail based on this first and second aspect.