WO2015196260A1

WO2015196260A1 - Shutter systems and components thereof

Info

Publication number: WO2015196260A1
Application number: PCT/AU2015/050363
Authority: WO
Inventors: Melvyn BRICE; Do Ngoc THANH
Original assignee: Riverslea Holdings Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2014-06-28
Filing date: 2015-06-29
Publication date: 2015-12-30
Also published as: AU2020220220B2; AU2020220220A1; AU2015281801B2; AU2015281801A1

Abstract

A shutter system comprises a frame and one or more shutter panels supported by the frame. The frame comprises a wall-side plate arranged to be fastened to the inside surface of an opening in the wall by use of one or more fasteners extending through a 5 respective hole in the wall-side plate. The frame comprises a retainer for retaining a click-in facia so as to conceal the at least one fastener.

Description

Shutter Systems and Components Thereof Field of the Invention The present invention relates to shutters, particularly for shuttering windows and doors. Background

A known shutter system 10, schematically shown in Figures 1 to 3, comprises a frame 12 in which there is one or more shutter panels 24, 26. The frame 12 has side portions 14, a top portion 16 and a bottom portion 18. Each panel 24, 26 is pivotally attached to the frame 12 by hinges 20 so that the panel 24 or 26 pivots about a vertical axis of the hinges 20. The panel 24, 26 comprises a pair of spaced apart vertically extending stiles 22 the end regions of which have a top rail 28 and bottom rail 30, respectively, extending therebetween. The stiles 22 support a plurality of axially rotatable louver blades 32, which are configured to open the panel 24, 26 when in a generally horizontal configuration and close the panel 24 or 26 when in a generally vertical orientation. A tilt rod 34 connects the blades 32 such that they rotate in unison. Figure 1 shows panels 24 and 26 positioned to cover an opening, such as a window, with the blades in a closed configuration. In this configuration the blades 32 are generally vertically oriented and overlapping. Figure 2 shows the panel 24' with the blades 32' rotated about their longitudinal axes so as to open the panel 24', such that gaps 36 between the blades 32' allow light to pass through the panel 24. Panel 26 is closed. Figure 3 shows the panel 26' has been swung about its hinges 20 so as to allow free access to the opening 38.

These shutter systems are generally manufactured from wood, and screws are used to connect the wooden parts together, along with attaching the frame to the opening in a wall into which the shutter system is installed.

It is undesirable for the screws to be seen, although they can be recessed in a hole so as to be less obvious. Wood can be damaged or deteriorate when exposed to an outdoor environment.

It is desirable to provide a shutter system with an alternative construction. Summary of the Invention

According to an aspect of the present invention there is a shutter system comprising a frame and one or more shutter panels supported by the frame, wherein the frame comprises a wall-side plate arranged to be fastened to the inside surface of an opening in the wall by use of one or more fasteners extending through a respective hole in the wall-side plate, wherein the frame comprises a retainer for retaining a click-in facia so as to conceal the at least one fastener.

In an embodiment the frame comprises side portions, a top portion and a bottom portion.

In an embodiment the or each panel comprises a pair of spaced apart vertically extending stiles, a top rail and bottom rail extending therebetween at the respective end regions of the stiles, and a plurality of axially rotatable louver blades extending between the stiles.

In an embodiment the frame comprises an attachment rail for coupling a support thereto for supporting one of the stiles.

In an embodiment the attachment rail comprises spaced apart projections in cross sections that are facing each other. In an embodiment the retainer is in the form of spaced apart projections in cross section.

In an embodiment the retainer is in the form of an eccentric attachment rail comprising spaced apart projections in cross section generally facing each other, but offset from each other.

In an embodiment the frame is a DB frame and further comprises a side wall-plate projecting from the wall-side plate, wherein the side wall-plate is able to be provided with one or more holes along its length for receiving respective fasteners to attach the frame to the side of the wall. In an embodiment the side wall-plate comprises a retainer receiving a click-in facia so as to cover the fasteners through the holes in the side wall-plate.

In an embodiment the retainer of the side wall-plate is in the form of pair of projections in cross-section facing each other.

In an embodiment one or more of the stiles comprise a louver blade side and a fixing side, wherein the fixing side comprises a retainer for retaining the support. In an embodiment the retainer is in the form of an attachment rail. In an embodiment the retainer is in the form of a channel having a restricted opening.

In an embodiment the fixing side of the stile comprises a channel extends along the length of the stile. In an embodiment the channel is a central channel. In an embodiment the central channel is under the attachment rail.

In an embodiment the attachment rail comprises at least one U-shaped channel for receiving and retaining a support, hinge or seal. In an embodiment there are U shaped channels on either side of the central channel.

In an embodiment the U shaped channels are formed of respective outer projections and respective inner opposite facing projections on the ends of flanges that form a neck in cross section so as to restrict the opening of the central channel. In an embodiment the support is in the form a generally T shaped elongate member comprising a hat portion and a leg portion for engaging the retainer of the stile.

In an embodiment the support is in the form of a hinge. In an embodiment the hinge comprises a bearing from which extends a first arm and a second arm in a pivotal arrangement, wherein the first arm is configured to be coupled to the attachment rail of the frame and the second arm is configured to be coupled to the attachment rail of the stile. In an embodiment the first arm comprises a Z shape so as to provide a flange portion generally parallel with and offset from a radial line from the axis of rotation of the arms so that the flange is able to be inserted so as to sit under one of the projections of retainer of the stile. In an embodiment the first arm comprises a releasable tongue able to be positioned so as to sit under the other of the projections of the retainer of the stile and tightened to clamp the arm to the stile.

In an embodiment the second arm comprises a Z shape so as to provide a flange portion generally parallel with and offset from a radial line from the axis of rotation of the arms so that the flange is able to be inserted so as to sit under one of the projections of the attachment rail of the frame. In an embodiment the second arm comprises a releasable tongue able to be positioned so as to sit under the other of the projections of the attachment rail of the frame and tightened to clamp the arm to the frame.

In an embodiment the frame comprises a post comprising opposite facing attachment rails that act as connections to which respective stiles may be attached. In an embodiment the frame comprises a post comprising attachment rails at an angle with respect to each other that is less than 180 degrees so as to act as connections to which respective stiles may be attached so as to be arranged to be at the angle with respect to each other. In an embodiment each hinge arm is arranged to be coupled to a respective stile.

In an embodiment each hinge arm is arranged to be coupled to a respective U shaped channel of a respective stile. In an embodiment each arm of the hinge comprises a mandrel arranged to be captively received in the U shaped channel such that when it is loose the hinge may move longitudinally in the channel, but when tightened, clamps on the channel so as to be immovable. In an embodiment the U shaped channels are provided with a seal.

In an embodiment one or more of the stiles comprises a track running system.

In an embodiment the track running system permits pivoting of the stile with respect to the track. In an alternative embodiment the track running system does not permit pivoting of the stile with respect to the track. In an embodiment the track running system is comprises in a hinge coupled to the stile. In an embodiment the hinge comprises a wheel for running in a track. In an embodiment the hinge comprises a third arm extending longitudinally

substantially in line with or parallel to the axis of rotation of the first and second arms, and the wheel is rotatable with respect to the third arm.

In an embodiment one or more of the stiles comprises a locking system. In an embodiment the locking system prevents pivoting of the stile when the locking system is activated, but allows pivoting of the stile when the locking system is deactivated.

In an embodiment the locking system comprises a longitudinally extendible bolt that when activated extends from an end of the stile and when deactivated is retracted into the end of the stile.

In an embodiment the bolt is positioned in the central channel of the stile.

According to an aspect of the present invention there is a shutter system comprising a frame and one or more shutter panels supported by the frame, wherein the frame comprises an attachment rail for coupling a support thereto for supporting one of the stiles.

According to an aspect of the present invention there is a shutter system comprising a frame and one or more shutter panels supported by the frame, wherein each panel comprises a pair of stiles and each stile comprises an attachment rail for coupling to a support for supporting the panel in the frame.

According to an aspect of the present invention there is a shutter system comprising a frame and one or more shutter panels pivotally supported by the frame by a hinge, wherein the hinge comprises a bearing from which extend in a pivotal arrangement a first arm and a second arm, wherein the first arm is configured to be coupled to an attachment rail of the frame and the second arm is configured to be coupled to an attachment rail of the panel. According to an aspect of the present invention there is a shutter system comprising a frame and one or more shutter panels supported by the frame, wherein the frame comprises a post comprising opposite facing or angled attachment rails for coupling panels to either side of the post.

According to an aspect of the present invention there is a shutter system comprising a frame and one or more shutter panels supported by the frame by a hinge comprising a wheel for running in a track of the frame. According to an aspect of the present invention there is a shutter system comprising a frame and one or more shutter panels supported by the frame, wherein one or more of the panels comprises a locking system that prevents moving of the panel when the locking system is activated, but allows moving of the panel when the locking system is deactivated.

According to an aspect of the present invention there is a stile for a shutter system panel comprises an attachment rail on an edge of stile for coupling to a support for supporting the panel and a central channel extends along the length of the edge of the stile under the attachment rail.

According to an aspect of the present invention there is a shutter system comprising the above defined stile.

According to an aspect of the present invention there is a stile for a shutter system panel comprises two spaced apart attachment rails, each attachment rail comprises a U-shaped channel for receiving and retaining a support for supporting the panel. In an embodiment there are U shaped channels on either side of, and outward of, a central channel extending along the length of the edge of the stile. According to an aspect of the present invention there is a shutter system comprising the above defined stile.

According to an aspect of the present invention there is a hinge comprising a bearing from which extend in a pivotal arrangement a first arm and a second arm, wherein the first arm is configured to be coupled to an attachment rail of a frame and the second arm is configured to be coupled to an attachment rail of a panel. According to an aspect of the present invention there is a shutter system comprising the above defined hinge. According to an aspect of the present invention there is a post for a frame of a shutter system, said post comprising opposite facing attachment rails that act as connections to which respective shutter panel stiles may be attached.

According to an aspect of the present invention there is a hinge comprising a wheel for running in a track. In an embodiment there are at least two in line wheels. In an embodiment at least one arm of the hinge is pivotable relative to the wheel. In an embodiment the hinge is configured to be hung by the wheel.

According to an aspect of the present invention there is a shutter system comprising the above defined hinge.

According to an aspect of the present invention there is a frame for a shutter system comprising : a fastener plate through which at least one fastener can be used to fasten the frame to an inside of a wall opening ; a retainer for retaining a click-in facia for hiding the at least one fastener; an attachment rail for supporting a support of a shutter panel. In an embodiment the frame comprises a block portion extending from the fastener plate so as to space the track retainer from the plate.

According to an aspect of the present invention there is a frame for a shutter system comprising : a fastener plate L shaped in cross section comprising a first plate portion through which at least one fastener can be used to fasten the frame to an inside of a wall opening and a second plate portion through which at least one fastener can be used to fasten the frame to an peripheral area of the wall opening ; a retainer for retaining a click-in facia for hiding at least one of the fasteners; an attachment rail for supporting a support of a shutter panel. In an embodiment the retainer is for retaining a click-in facia for hiding at least one of the fasteners through the first plate portion and there is a second retainer is for retaining a click-in facia for hiding at least one of the fasteners through the second plate portion. According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of installing a shutter system, said method comprising : providing a frame and one or more shutter panels, wherein the frame comprises a wall-side plate of the frame through which at least one hole may be provided, and wherein the frame comprises a retainer for retaining a click-in facia so as to conceal the at least one hole and any fastener extending through said at least one hole; inserting at least one fastener into a respective hole through the wall-side plate so as to install the frame in an opening in a wall; and installing a click-in facia to the retainer so as to conceal the at least one fastener; supporting the shutter panels in the frame.

According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of installing a shutter system, said method comprising: providing a frame and one or more shutter panels, wherein each panel comprises a pair of stiles, wherein the frame and each stile comprises an attachment rail for coupling to a support for supporting each panel in the frame; installing the frame in an opening in a wall; and installing the panels by coupling a support to the stiles and coupling the support to the frame, wherein the position of the support with respect to the stile and or the frame is adjustable prior to it be secured in place.

According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of installing a shutter system, said method comprising: providing a frame and one or more shutter panels; installing the frame in an opening in a wall; and coupling the panels to the frame by at least one hinge for each panel, wherein the position of the hinge with respect to the panel and or the frame is adjustable prior to it be secured in place;

According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of installing a shutter system, said method comprising: providing a frame and a plurality of shutter panels; installing the frame in an opening in a wall; coupling adjacent panels together by at least one hinge; and supporting the hinge from a rail of the frame.

Summary of Drawings

In order to provide a better understanding of the present invention embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is an elevation of a known wooden shutter system, with panels closed; Figure 2 is an elevation of the shutter system of Figure 1 , with blades of one of the panels opened;

Figure 3 is an elevation of the shutter system of Figure 1 , with one of the panels swung open;

Figure 4A is an elevation of a shutter system according to an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention;

Figure 4B is a vertical cross-sectional elevation of the shutter system of Figure 4A;

Figure 4C is a horizontal cross-section of the shutter system of Figure 4A;

Figure 5 is an enlarged portion of the cross section of Figure 4C;

Figure 6A is an enlarged portion of the cross section of Figure 5;

Figure 6B is an alternative enlarged portion of the cross section of Figure 5;

Figure 7 is an enlarged portion of the cross section of Figures 6A and 6B;

Figure 8 is an enlarged portion of the cross section of Figure 6B;

Figure 9 is an enlarged portion of the cross section of Figure 6A;

Figure 10 is enlarged portions of the cross section of Figure 5;

Figure 10A is a cross sectional view of a frame section of Figure 10 shown attached to a wall;

Figure 1 1 is an enlarged portion of the cross section of Figure 4B;

Figure 12A is an enlarged portion of the cross section of Figure 4B, with an alternative shaped frame bottom rail;

Figure 12B is an enlarged portion of the cross section of Figure 4B;

Figure 13 is enlarged portion of the cross section of Figure 5;

Figure 14A is an enlarged portion of the frame of Figure 4A;

Figure 14B is an enlarged portion of Figure 14A, as seen from behind;

Figure 15A is an elevation of a shutter system according to an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention;

Figure 15B is a vertical cross-sectional elevation of the shutter system of Figure 15A; Figure 15C is a horizontal cross-section of the shutter system of Figure 15A;

Figure 16 is an enlarged is a horizontal cross-section of the shutter system of Figure 15C, with an alternative stile;

Figure 17 is a horizontal cross-section of the shutter system of Figure 15A with an alternative frame section;

Figure 18 is a horizontal cross section of a stile of the system of Figure 17;

Figure 19 is a first perspective view of a hinge of the system of Figure 16;

Figure 20 is a second perspective view of the hinge of Figure 19;

Figure 21 is a schematic exploded elevation of the hinge of Figure 19; Figure 22 is a horizontal cross section of adjacent stiles of the system of Figure 15C; Figure 23 is an elevation of a shutter system according to an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention;

Figure 24 is a horizontal cross-section of a post of the shutter system of Figure 23; Figure 25 is a horizontal cross-section of an alternative post;

Figure 26 is a horizontal cross-section of an alternative post;

Figure 27 is an elevation and horizontal cross section of a shutter system according to an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention;

Figure 28 is a horizontal cross-section of adjacent stiles of the shutter system of Figure 27 coupled together by a hinge;

Figure 29 is a horizontal cross-section of the stiles of Figure 28 having been pivoted with respect to each other;

Figure 31 is an enlarged vertical cross-sectional of the shutter system of Figure 27; Figure 32 is a horizontal cross-section of adjacent stiles of the shutter system of Figure 27 with an alternative hinge to that in Figure 28;

Figure 33 is a perspective view of hinges of the system of Figure 32;

Figure 34 is a schematic plan view of the upper hinge of Figure 33;

Figure 35A is a side elevation of a locking system of an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 35B is an end elevation of the locking system of Figure 35A;

Figure 35C is a cross sectional view of the locking system of Figure 35A;

Figure 36 is a plan view of a shutter system according to an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention;

Figure 37 is an elevation of the shutter system of Figure 36;

Figure 38 is a vertical cross sectional view of the shutter system of Figure 37;

Figure 39 is a horizontal cross section of a stile of the system of Figure 37;

Figure 40 is a perspective view of rollers of the system of Figure 37;

Figure 41 is an elevation of a shutter system according to an embodiment of an aspect of the present invention;

Figure 42 is a horizontal cross section of the system of Figure 41 in an open configuration;

Figure 43 is a vertical cross sectional view of the shutter system of Figure 41 ;

Figure 44; is a schematic horizontal cross section of the system of Figure 41 in a closed configuration; and

Figure 45 schematic perspective view of the system in Figure 44, with panels shown in phantom; Figure 46 is an alternative frame;

Figure 47 is an alternative stile and frame of Figure 46;

Figure 48 is an alternative DB frame to the DB frame in Figure 6B and the alternative stile of Figure 47;

Figure 49 is an alternative frame;

Figure 50 is an alternative frame;

Figure 51 is an alternative post;

Figure 52 is an alternative post;

Figure 53 is an alternative post;

Figure 54 is an exploded view of parts of a panel;

Figure 55 is a part exploded view of parts of the panel of Figure 54;

Figure 56 is an assembled view of the part of the panel of Figure 55.

Detailed Description of Embodiments of the Invention

Referring to Figures 4A, 4B and 4C, there is shown a shutter system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention comprising a frame 1 12 in which is supported a panel 124. The frame 1 12 has side portions 1 14, a top portion 1 16 and a bottom portion 1 18. The panel 124 is supported by the frame 1 12 by a suitable support arrangement according to whether the panel is to be fixed, hinged or otherwise. The panel 124 comprises a pair of spaced apart vertically extending stiles 122, the end regions of which are respectively connected by a top rail 128 and bottom rail 130. The stiles 122 support a plurality of axially rotatable louver blades 132, which are configured to open the panel 124 to allow light to pass through when in a generally horizontal configuration and close the panel 124 so as to overlap and prevent light from passing through when in a generally vertical orientation. In this embodiment the system 100 is largely formed of extruded material, such as for example extruded aluminium as will be apparent from the cross sectional views. As shown in Figures 5 to 10, the frame 1 12 allows the shutter system 100 to be fastened to an opening in a wall 200 in a manner that hides the fasteners, e.g. screws, rivets, bolts etc. The frame 1 12 comprises a frame section 202. The frame section 202 comprises a wall-side plate 306 arranged to contact and be fastened to the inside surface of an opening in the wall 200. The wall-side plate 306 has a plate portion 318 through which one or more holes may be provided for receiving respective fasteners for attaching the frame section 202 to the wall opening. The frame section 202 further comprises a block portion 316 extending from the plate portion 318, opposite to the wall side, for spacing a connection 300 from the plate 306. In this embodiment connection 300 is in the form of an attachment rail comprising spaced apart projections 302 in cross section that are facing each other and extend longitudinally along the length of the section 202. The connection 300 is coupling a support 220 thereto for supporting one of the stiles 122. The frame section 202 further comprises a retainer 318, in this embodiment in the form of an eccentric attachment rail comprising spaced apart projections 322 and 324 in cross section generally facing each other, but offset from each other with respect to the plate 306. The projections 322 and 324 extend longitudinally along the length of the section 202 opposite the plate portion 306 for retaining a click-in facia 204 so as to conceal the at least one fastener.

In this embodiment the frame section 202 is a DB frame and further comprises a side wall plate 308 projecting rearwardly from the wall-side plate 306 so as to form a corner with the wall-side plate 306 to receive a corner of the wall 200. The plates 306 and 308 form an L shape in cross section. The side-wall plate 308 is able to be provided with one or more holes along its length for receiving respective fasteners to attach the frame section 202 to the side of the wall 200. The side wall plate 308 also has a retainer 310, in this embodiment in the form of an attachment rail comprising projections 312 and 314 in cross-section facing each other for receiving a click-in facia 206 so as to cover the fasteners through the holes in the side wall plate 308.

The facia 206 may also cover the corner of the opening in the wall 200, which is particularly useful when the opening is uneven or not square.

Figure 48 shows an alternative DB frame 1300, with the difference being in the space between projections 302, so as to accommodate a support, such as hinge 770 of Figures 28 and 29. Also instead of facia 204 there is a stile back stop 1304. As an alternative to a DB frame, the frame may be a singer frame comprising frame section 500 so as to be recessed in the wall opening, in which case it may be in the form shown in Figure 12A and will not have the side wall plate 308. Plate portion 506 is equivalent to plate portion 306. Plate portion 502 is flat so as to abut the opening in the wall 200. The frame section 202 may be used for the top frame portion 1 16 or bottom frame portion 1 18. In this case the connection 300 may be coupled to the top rail 128 or bottom rail 130 instead of the stile 122, although the preferred form is for the stiles 122 to be supported by the frame 1 12, rather than the rails 128 and 130.

In an embodiment the connection 300 is in the form of an attachment rail for attachment to a hinge as will be described in more detail below.

Figure 46 shows an alternative singer frame 1308, with a difference being the stile back stop 1304.

Referring to Figure 7 there is shown a click-in facia 204 comprising a longitudinally extending opening 350 on either side of which are projections, which in this

embodiment are a hook 354 and barb 352 in cross section, each of which extend along the length of the facia 204 for engagement with the projections 322 and 344 to hold the facia 204 in place on the frame section 202 when it has been fastened to the opening in of the wall 200. Extending between the projections 352 and 354 of facia 204 is a bridge portion 338. In this embodiment extending from the bridge portion 338 is a hollow return 332 comprising faces 330, 334 and 336. The return 332 may not be included in some embodiments, but when included it has the advantage of blocking a direct line between the back of the shutter system 100 and the front through a gap between the frame 1 12 and the stile 122 or the top rail 128 or the bottom rail 130, which might otherwise exist to allow for a support means, such as hinges. The bridge portion 338 comprises inner leg 340 and outer leg 342, along with span 344 between faces 336 and 330. In an embodiment span 344 may be omitted, with the bridge portion 338 comprising leg 342, faces 336, 334 and 330 and leg 340.

Referring to Figure 8 there is shown an alternative click in facia 207 to facia 206. Facia 207 is plain and narrower than facia 206. Facia 207 comprises a closure 364, which in this embodiment comprise projections 368 and 370 for interfacing with and coupling the facia 207 to the retainer 310. Specifically projection 368 interacts with projection 314 and projection 370 interacts with projection 312. In this embodiment the projections 368 and 370 are in the form of barbs in cross section and they extend the length of the facia 207. Extending between the projections 368 and 370 is a span 380 which forms an externally presented surface that covers the fastener extending through the side plate 308. The span 380 is arranged to appear generally continuous with the surface of block portion 316.

Referring to Figure 9 the facia 206 is shown. Facia 206 is profiled in cross section so as to present a pattern on the exposed surface. Facia 206 comprises a closure 364, which in this embodiment comprise projections 368 and 370 for interfacing with and coupling the facia 206 to the retainer 310. Specifically projection 368 interacts with projection 314 and projection 310 interacts with projection 312. In this embodiment the projections 368 and 370 are in the form of barbs in cross section and they extend the length of the facia 206. Extending between the projections 368 and 370 is a span 360 which forms the externally presented surface 362 that covers the fastener extending through the side plate 308. The span 360 is arranged to appear generally continuous with the surface of block portion 316. Continuing from the span 360 is an extension 372 that terminates in a flange 374 for abutting the wall 200 in line with, but spaced from, the side plate 380. The extension 372 expands the width of the facia 206 in comparison to facia 207 and also in comparison to the spacing between projections 312 and 314. The span 380 and extension 372 are profiled in cross section to provide the pattern shown in Figure 14A. Figure 10 shows the frame section 202 without the click in facias 204 and 206/207. Figure 10 also shows the stile 122. In this embodiment the stile 122 comprises an elongate body 400 having a hollow inside 406, a louver blade side 402 and a fixing side 404. A centre channel 416 extends along the length of the fixing side 404 of the body 400. The fixing side 404 also comprises a retaining means for retaining the support. The side 402 is provided with holes along its length for receiving a spindle 452 of each blade 132, where each spindle 452 comprises a retainer 454 for retaining the spindle 452 in the stile 122. Each blade 132 has a spindle 452 axially aligned with and projecting from each end of the blade body 450. The blade side 402 is provided with holes adjacent the ends of the stile 122 for attachment to the top rail 128 and bottom rail 130. The centre channel 416 is able to have holes provided therein in alignment with the holes for attachment of the rails 128 and 130 so as to allow access inside the stile 122, such as for use of a screwdriver for assembly of stiles 122 and rails 128 and 130 to form the panel 124. The fixing side 404 also comprises at least one, and in this embodiment a pair of spaced apart U-shaped channels 414 on either side of the central channel 416. The channels 414 are formed of respective outer projections 412 and respective inner opposite facing projections 420 on the ends of flanges 424 that form a neck 422 in cross section so as to restrict the opening of the central channel 416. The channels 414 are for receiving and retaining a support, hinge or seal as will be described in more detail below.

Figure 10A shows the position of the frame section 202 on the wall 200 corner and the fasteners 252 penetrating the holes in the wall-side plate 306 and the side-wall plate 308.

Figures 47 and 48 show an alternative stile 1400 with only one channel 414. Instead of side 402 being integrally formed with body 400, it is an insert 1302 with interference (slide in or click in). The spindle 432 will pass through the insert 1302 and can be attached to the stile via the insert 1302. Use of this stile 1400 is described further below in relation to Figure 54 to 56.

Referring to Figure 13, the support 220 in this embodiment is in the form of a generally T shaped elongate member 552 comprising a hat portion 550 and a leg portion 562. The hat portion 550 is generally concave curved with respect to the leg portion 562 and terminates in tips 558 and 560. The leg portion 562 comprises spaced apart projections 554 and 556 for cooperating with the projections 412 of the stile 122 to fix the support 220 to the stile 122. In this embodiment the projection 556 is in the form of a barb and projection 554 is in the form of a hook. Tip 558 contacts the stile 122 and tip 560 contacts the frame section 202. T member 522 also serves to block a direct line between the back of the shutter system 100 and the front through a gap between the frame 1 12 and the stile 122, which might otherwise exist.

Figure 47 shows an alternative support 1220, with there being a difference in the spacing between projections 554 and 556 such that they cooperate with connection type having channel 414, such as is the case with stiles 400 and 1400.

Referring to Figure 1 1 , there is the frame top portion 1 16 which comprises another frame section 202. The frame section 202 is arranged to have its wall-side plate 306 in contact with and fastened to the upper inside surface of an opening in the wall 200. Again one or more holes may be provided in plate portion 318 for receiving respective fasteners for attaching the frame section 202 to the wall opening and the click-in facia 204 hides the fasteners. The wall plate 308 may also have one or more holes for receiving respective fasteners and the click-in facia 206 hides those fasteners.

The top rail 128 comprises a hollow body with a blade stop 460 projecting downwardly for stopping over-rotation of the top most blade 132. The inside of the body is provided with fastener receiving channels for fixing of the stiles 122 to the rail by use of fasteners, such as screws etc.

Referring to Figure 12A, there is the frame bottom portion 1 18 which comprises a singer frame section 500. The frame section 500 is arranged to have a wall-side plate 506 in contact with and fastened to the lower inside surface of an opening in the wall 200. Again the click-in facia 204 hides the fasteners.

The bottom rail 128 comprises a hollow body with a blade stop 460 projecting upwardly for stopping over-rotation of the bottom most blade 132. The bottom rail 128 may be formed of telescopic parts 480 and 480 that are adjustable according to the size of the opening. Part 482 is partly inside part 480. The inside of the body is provided with fastener receiving channels for fixing of the stiles 122 to the rail 130 by use of fasteners. When fixed to the stiles 122 the spacing of the parts 480 and 482 relative to each other will be fixed.

Figures 49 and 50 show alternative frames 1310 and 1320 to which frame 1300 can be fixed. Referring to Figure 12B, there is the frame bottom portion 1 18 which comprises a DB frame section 202. The frame section 202 is arranged to have a wall-side plate 306 in contact with and fastened to the lower inside surface of an opening in the wall 200. Again the click-in facia 204 hides the fasteners. The wall plate 308 may also have one or more holes for receiving respective fasteners and the click-in facia 206 hides those fasteners.

Figure 14B shows the rear of the frame 1 12, including a right angle joint 373 and 375 to set the side and top/bottom portions of the facias 206 so as the be square. Joint comprises locking parts 373 and 375, which interlock with each other and the inside of flange 374 of the facias 206 and the outside end of the wall plate 308 of the frame section 202. These also align the profile of the pattern of each facia 206 as seen in Figure 14A.

Referring to Figures 15A, 15B and 15C, there is shown a shutter system 600 according to an embodiment of the present invention comprising a frame 612 in which are supported panels 624. The frame 612 has side portions 614, a top portion 616 and a bottom portion 618. Each panel 624 is supported by the frame 612 by hinges attached to the frame side portion 614 as will be described below. Each panel 624 comprises a pair of spaced apart vertically extending stiles 622, 640, the end regions of which are respectively connected by a top rail 628 and bottom rail 630. Each pair of stiles 622 support a plurality of axially rotatable louver blades 632, which are configured to open the respective panel 624 to allow light to pass through when in a generally horizontal configuration and close the respective panel 624 so as to overlap and prevent light from passing through when in a generally vertical orientation.

As shown in Figure 16, the frame 612 allows the shutter system 600 to be fastened to an opening in a wall 200 in a manner that hides the fasteners, eg screws. The frame 612 comprises a frame section 202, with facias 204 and 206 as has been previously described. The frame section 202 is fastened to the wall 200 by fasteners 252 penetrating the holes in the wall-side plate 306 and the side-wall plate 308.

Stile 622 is closest to the frame side portion 614 and is connected to the side portion 614 by at least one hinge 670. Stile 640 is adjacent the other shutter 624 and will be described further below. The stile 622' in Figure 16 is a variant to style 622 and will be described further below. Stile 622 is described in relation to Figure 18. It is similar to style 122, although it does not have the channels 414 or flanges 424 on fixing side 404, instead it has a channel 644 extending between projections 412 so as to form an attachment rail to which the hinge 670 may be coupled at a desired position along its length. It still has centre channel 416 and a neck 422 formed between projections 646 extending into the channel from the bed of the channel 644.

Stile 622' is similar to stile 622, except that it does not have the centre channel 416, instead the bed 623 of the channel 644 is continuous. The hinge 670 is shown in Figures 16 and 19A, 20 and 21 . The hinge 670 comprises a pin 672 surrounded by a barrel 674 so as to form a bearing. The pin 672 extends from another barrel 673. Each of the barrels 673 and 674 have a respective arm 676 and 678 extending therefrom so that the arms 676 and 678 can pivot about the pin 672 relative to each other, in the normal manner that a hinge operates. However the arm 676 is adapted for coupling to the attachment rail formed by the channel 644 and arm 678 is adapted for coupling to the attachment rail formed by connection 300. In particular arm 676 has a Z shape 684 so as to provide a flange portion 690 generally parallel with and offset from a radial line from the axis of rotation of the barrels 673 and 647. The offset is sufficient for the flange 690 to be inserted so as to sit under one of the projections 412 of connection 404. Further, arm 676 has a releasable tongue 680 attached to the rest of the arm by one or more screws (which are inserted in holes 688) as to be loose with respect to the flange 690 when the screw(s) are loose. When the screw(s) are tightened the tongue 680 is rigid with respect to the flange 690. The tongue 680 is able to be positioned so as to sit under the other of the projections 412 when the tongue 680 is loose with respect to the flange 690. Additionally the hinge 670 can be slid along the length of the stile 622 to a desired position. Further, when the tongue 680 is tightened it clamps the other projection 412 and captures the flange 690 and tongue 680 within the projections 442 thereby rigidly coupling the hinge 670 to the stile 622.

Additionally arm 678 has a Z shape 686 so as to provide a flange portion 692 generally parallel with and offset from a radial line from the axis of rotation of the barrels 673 and 674. The offset is sufficient for the flange 692 to sit under one of the projections 302 of connection 300 forming the attachment rail of the frame section 202. Further, arm 678 has a releasable tongue 682 attached to the rest of the arm by one or more screws (which are inserted in holes 694) so as to be loose with respect to the flange 692 when the screw(s) are loose. When the screw(s) are tightened the tongue 682 is rigid with respect to the flange 692. The tongue 682 is able to be positioned so as to sit under the other of the projections 302 when the tongue 682 is loose with respect to the flange 692. Additionally the hinge 670 can be slid along the length of the frame section 202 to a desired position. Further, when the tongue 682 is tightened it clamps the other projection 302 and rigidly couples the hinge 670 to the frame portion 202.

The position of the hinge 670 along the length of the stile/frame can be adjusted according to the desired placement for the installation by sliding it up or down before tightening the screws to secure it in place. This can be done on-site during installation, rather than needing to be done in a factory as is the case for conventional hinge placement.

Figure 17 shows a variant frame portion 614' that is similar to the singer frame in Figure 12A, however instead of the removable facia 204, there is a return 656 integrally formed with the frame portion 614'. The face 652 abuts the inside of a wall opening. Connection 654 is equivalent to connection 300 in frame portion 202. Face 650 is the back side of the frame portion 614'. Figure 22 shows adjacent stiles 640 of the respective panels 624. The panels 624 are pivotable so as the part from a centre line 698 and are able to come together so as to be substantially inline on either line of the centre line 698. Each stile 640 is of the type described above in relation to stile 122. Each stile 640 has a T section end piece in the form of the T shaped elongate member 552 described above. Tip 558 of the hat portion 550 of the respective member 552 contracts the stile 640 to which it is connected. Tip 560 contacts the stile 640 to which it is not coupled. The T members 522 serve to blocking a direct line between the back of the shutter system 600 and the front through a gap between the stiles 640, which might otherwise exist.

Due to the overlapping of the T sections 698 and 552, as shown, the left stile must be moved to pivot down the page first before the stile on the right can pivot down the page.

It is noted that the T piece could be of the type shown in Figure 47.

In some cases it may be desirable to have multiple pairs of panels side by side as shown in Figure 23. One way of implementing this is to provide a post 660 in the frame 612 so that the post 660 provides a rigid support midway along the horizontal length of the frame 612. In a typical example of this embodiment of the shutter system 602, there are two side by side shutters comprising panels 624 hinged on either side so as to be able to be opened. In this example the panels can be duplicated (as panels 624') next to the first two panels 624, with the post 660 in between. Such an arrangement may be typical for a "bay window". The post 660 extends between and is fixed to the top frame section 616 and the bottom frame section 618. The post 660 acts as the respective side frame member, and in particular acts in place of frame section 202, for the stiles 641 on either side. An example of a post 660 is shown in Figure 24. The post 660 comprises a block part 662 that spaces apart opposite facing attachment rails that act as connections 300, which in this embodiment are also in the form of spaced apart projections 302 extending longitudinally along the length of the post 660 for coupling to one of the stiles 641 . The post 660 further comprises opposite facing returns 656 which extend from the block portion 662 and arrange the post 660 to be generally T shaped. The returns 656 extend past the means for coupling of the post 660 to the stile 641 (which is typically a hinge) so as to block out a direct line that would otherwise allow light to pass through.

An alternative for of T post 1660 is shown in Figure 53.

In some embodiments it may be desirable to extend the panels of the shutter system across a non-straight wall. As shown in Figures 25 and 26, variant posts 668 and 669 can be provided such as 90 degree post 668 and 135 degree post 669. These posts are similar to post 660, except that there is a half of the post 660 at the respective angle to the other half of the post and a back wall 664/666 connects the halves together. Specifically block part 662 is on each side of the longitudinal symmetrical axis of the post and block parts 662, the connections 300, and returns 656 are at the respective angle (90 or 135 degrees to each other). The angled back wall 664/666 is at half the respective angle with respect to the returns 656. This allows the stiles 641 and in turn the panels 624 that comprise the stiles 641 to be at the respective angle to each other.

Alternative posts 1666 and 1668 to posts 666 and 668 are shown in Figures 52 and 51 , respectively. These connect to frames 1308 so as to provide connections 300 to stiles 400 or 1400. In other cases it is desirable to have a shutter system with multiple panels next to each other, in a concertina like configuration. Referring to Figures 27 to 31 , there is shown a shutter system 700 according to an embodiment of the present invention comprising a frame 712 in which are supported four panels 724. The frame 712 has side portions 714, a top portion 716 and a bottom portion 718. Each outer panel 724' is supported by the frame 712 by hinges attached to the frame side portion 714 as described above. Each inner panel 724" and 724"' is supported by the respective adjacent outer panel 724' and by a track system above and or below in the frame 712 as will be described in more detail below. Again each panel 724 comprises a pair of spaced apart vertically extending stiles 722, the end regions of which are respectively connected by a top rail 728 and bottom rail 730. Each pair of stiles 722 support a plurality of axially rotatable louver blades 732, which are configured to open the respective panel 724 to allow light to pass through when in a generally horizontal configuration and close the respective panel 724 so as to overlap and prevent light from passing through when in a generally vertical orientation. The frame 712 allows the shutter system 700 to be fastened to an opening in a wall 200 in a manner that hides the fasteners in a manner that has been previously described.

Stiles 722 are closest to the frame side portions 714 and are connected to the side portion 714 by at least one hinge 670 in a similar manner to the system 600. Stiles 740 are adjacent each other and are connected to each other by at least one hinge 770 as will be described further below. Stiles 742 are adjacent each other and can separate with a similar arrangement to that shown in Figure 22. However the shutter 724"' on the right must be opened first. The panel 724"' has a locking mechanism, as will be described in more detail, that allows the shutter system 700 to be used as a lockable entry or lockable covering of an open window.

Referring to Figure 28, adjacent stiles 740 are shown in more detail. A hinge 770 is coupled to the connection means 404 of each stile 740. The hinge 770 is similar to hinge 670 described above, however it is able to be fastened to adjacent channels

414. In particular the arms 776 and 778 extending from the pin 674 and barrel 674 are shorter, extending over the respective channel 414 only. A mandrel 780 is provided in the channel 414 in a manner is loose so that it can be moved longitudinally in the slot 414 to a desired position, but retained within the channel 414 by the projections 412 and 420, when screws connecting the arm 776/778 to the mandrel 780 are loose, and clamps the projections 412 and 420 so as to be immovable when the screws are tightened.

Figure 29 shows the stiles 740 having been pivoted about the pin 672 of the hinge 770. This in turn will position the panels 724' and 740" (or 724' and 724"') that comprise the pivoted stiles 740 so as to be substantially parallel to each other. Further the channels 414 may receive a seal 735 either side of the hinge 770 and in the opposite channel 414 so as to block out light and prevent wind draft when the panels 726 and 724" are aligned.

Referring to Figure 30, there is the frame top portion 716 which comprises another frame section 202. The frame section 202 is arranged to have its wall-side plate 306 in contact with and fastened to the upper inside surface of an opening in the wall 200 or a door frame 201 . Again one or more holes may be provided in plate portion 318 for receiving respective fasteners for attaching the frame section 202 to the wall opening. In this case a pelmet cover 756 is used in place of the click-in facia 204. The wall plate 308 may also have one or more holes for receiving respective fasteners and the click- in facia 206 hides those fasteners. Coupled to the connection 300 of the frame section 202 is a track box 750, which is also supported by the pelmet cover 756. Track box 750 is provided with grooves into which may slide the projections 302 of the connection 300 so as to couple it to the section 202. The track box 750 comprises a channel 752 in which a wheel set 796 is able to travel on rails 754 of the track box 750.

The top rail 728 is suspended via the stiles 722/740/742. A wheel set 796 is connected to a hinge 790 and in turn the stiles 740, as will be described below. The position of the hinge 790 on the length of the stile 740 is adjusted so that the top rail 728 is positioned a desired distance from the track box 750.

Referring to Figure 31 , there is the frame bottom portion 718 which comprises a singer frame section 500. The frame section 500 is arranged to have a wall-side plate 506 in contact with and fastened to the lower inside surface of an opening in the wall 200. Again the click-in facia 204 hides the fasteners.

Coupled to the connection 300 of the frame section 500 is a bottom track 760. Bottom track 760 is provided with grooves into which may slide the projections 302 of the connection 300 so as to couple it to the frame 718. The bottom track 760 comprises a channel 762 in which a wheel set 798 is able to travel and be retailed by projections 764. The bottom rail 128 is suspended via the stiles 722/740/742 and hinge 791 . A wheel set 798 is connected to a hinge 791 and in turn to the stile 740, as will be described below. The position of the hinge 790' on the length of the stile 740 is adjusted so that the bottom rail 730 is positioned a desired distance from the bottom track box 760.

Referring to Figure 32, adjacent stiles 742 are shown in more detail. A hinge 790 is coupled to the connection means 404 of each stile 742. The hinge 790 is similar to hinge 770 described above, however it has a third arm 792 rotatable with respect to the pin 672 and or fixed in relation to one of the barrels, or fixed in relation to the pin 672 and rotatable relative to the barrels. Extending vertically from the arm 792 is a wheel set 796 or 798. The alternative wheel sets are shown in more detail in Figure 33. Wheel set 796 comprises in this embodiment four wheels, each comprising a circumferential groove 797, in a two by two arrangement. Wheel set 796 is arranged to extend upwardly so as to be suitable for hanging from a track 754 so as to support the stiles 742 and thus the panels 724 that comprise stiles 742. Wheel set 798 is used on alternate hinge 791 . In this case wheel set 798 comprises in this embodiment two in line wheels. Wheel set 798 extends downwardly so as to be suitable for running in a rail 760 so as to guide the stiles 742 and thus the panels 724 that comprise stiles 742 to keep them in line with the rail 760.

Figure 34 schematically shows the pivoting of the arm 778 and thus the wheel set 796. The wheels are able to run along the track 752 (and wheel set 798 are also able run along rail 760) so as to prevent the panels escaping the opening in which the frame 712 is mounted, but allow pivotal movement of the stiles 740 and thus opening of the panels 724 of the shutter system 700.

Referring to Figures 35A, 35B and 35C, there is shown a bolt locking system 800 that may be used in the system 700. The system 800 comprises a handle 802 that drives a longitudinally extendible bolt 804, such as by a cam action to lengthen or retract the length of the bolt 804 as indicated by 810. The handle 802 is attached to the side of the stile 742' and the bolt 804 moves along the length of the channel 416 of the stile 742'. As the handle 802 is turned the bolt 804 extends in length so as to project past the edge of the stile 742'. At full extension the bolt 804 has extended far enough to interact with a cavity 814 in a strike/keeper part 812 of the frame 712. This will prevent the stile 742' from moving, thus locking it in place. The handle 802 may be turned so as to retract the bolt 804 from the cavity 814 thus freeing the stile 742' and thus the panel 724"' to be able to move. Typically the part 812 will be provided in the top frame section 716 and bottom frame section 718 so that the bolt action occurs at the top and bottom of the panel 742"'. In other cases it is desirable to have panels next to each other in a system where the panels can slide in line with the frame.

Referring to Figures 36 to 40, there is a shutter system 900 according to an

embodiment of the present invention comprising a frame 912 in which are supported panels 924, 925. The frame 912 has side portions 914, a top portion 916 and a bottom portion 918. Each panel 924 comprises a pair of spaced apart vertically extending stiles 922, the end regions of which are respectively connected by a top rail 928 and bottom rail 930. Each panel 924 is supported by the frame 912 by rollers 950/960 attached to stiles 922 of the panels 924. Each pair of stiles 922 support a plurality of axially rotatable louver blades 932, which are configured to open the respective panel 924 to allow light to pass through when in a generally horizontal configuration and close the respective panel 924 so as to overlap and prevent light from passing through when in a generally vertical orientation. The frame 912 is formed of parallel top tracks 750 and 940 and parallel bottom tracks 918 and 919. In this embodiment there are two panels 924 in the frame portion formed by tracks 750 and 918 and there is one panel 925 in the frame portion formed by tracks 940 and 919. The panels 924 and 925 can longitudinally slide along the respective tracks so as to position the panels as desired.

Referring to Figure 38, there is the frame top portion 916 which comprises the parallel top tracks 750 and 940. These tracks 750 and 940 are in the form of the track box 750 described above. The tracks 750 and 940 may be fixed to a door frame 201 or an intermediate member 942 which in turn is fixed to the door frame or the inside of an opening on a wall. The top rail 928 is suspended via the stile 922 and roller set 950.

The frame bottom portion 918 which comprises a singer frame section coupled to the bottom track 918. Another singer frame section is coupled to the other bottom track 919. Bottom tracks 918 and 919 each comprises a channel 762 in which a wheel set 968 is able to travel and be retailed. The bottom rail 928 is suspended via the stile 922 and roller set 960. The roller sets 950/960 comprise a T shaped mount 954/964 for insertion into the channel 416 of the stile 922, an offset 952/962 that passes through the neck 422 of the stile 922 and a post 956/968 that off sets the roller wheel sets 958 and 968 from the respective end of the stile 922. Wheel set 958 comprises two parallel wheels and wheel set 968 comprises two in line wheels. Screws may extend through and engage the offset 952/962 so as to but against the valley of the channel 416 causing the mount 954/96 to clamp against the flanges 424 so as to secure the roller sets 950/960 to the stile 422. Wheel sets 958 and 968 may not be pivotable through a line extending through the channel 416 with respect to the stile 922. Thus the stiles 922 and the panels to which they are comprised can only travel along the tracks 950 and 940 / 918 and 919 of the frame 912.

Referring to Figures 41 to 45, a further embodiment of a shutter system 1000 of the present invention is described. The shutter system 1000 comprises a frame 1012 in which are supported panels 1024. The frame 1012 has side portions 1014, a top portion 1016 and a bottom portion 1018. Each panel 1024 comprises a pair of spaced apart vertically extending stiles 1022, the end regions of which are respectively connected by a top rail 1028 and bottom rail 1030. Each panel 1024 is supported by the frame 1012 by hinges 770, rollers 950/960 or hinged rollers 790/791 attached to stiles 1022 of the panels 1024. Each pair of stiles 1022 support a plurality of axially rotatable louver blades 1032, which are configured to open the respective panel 1024 to allow light to pass through when in a generally horizontal configuration and close the respective panel 1024 so as to overlap and prevent light from passing through when in a generally vertical orientation.

The frame top portion 1016 comprises top track 750 and frame bottom portion 1018 comprises bottom track 918. In this embodiment there are five panels 1024 in system 1000. The outermost panels are designated 1002 and 1010. These are coupled to the side frame sections 202 by hinges as described above in relation to Figure 15A to 17. Panel 1004 is coupled to panel 1002 and panel 1008 is coupled to panel 1010 by hinges 770 in a similar manner that described in relation to Figure 27 to 29. Panels 1002 and 1008 are provided with bolt locks 900 in a similar manner to that described in relation to Figures 35A to 35C. Additionally a hinge 1070 similar to hinge 770 couples panel 1004 to panel 1002, as well as panel 1008 to panel 1010 approximately midway along the length of the styles 1022, so as to be at hand height. Hinge 1070 has a third arm similar to arm 778 of hinge 780, but the third arm is in the form of a handle to assist in returning the panels 1002 and 1004 or 1008 and 1010 so as to be in-line.

Panel 1006 is coupled to panel 1004 by hinges 790 so as to support the panels 1004 and 1006 by rollers 796 and 798 guides by the tracks 750 and 918, in a similar manner to that described above in relation to Figures 32 to 34. Panel 1008 at its end spaced from panel 1010 is supported by rollers 950 and 960, in a similar manner to that described above in relation to Figures 39 to 40. Although in this case the wheel sets 458 and 968 are pivotable with respect to the stiles 1022 by way of a swivel joint in line with the channel 416 of the stile 1022 most distant from the frame 1012. Panel 1006 is provided with a door lock 1 100 and panel 1008 is provided with a strike plate for the latch of the lock 1 100

Referring to Figure 43, there is the frame top portion 1016 which comprises frame section 500. The frame section 500 is arranged to have its wall-side plate 506 in contact with and fastened to the upper inside surface of an opening in the wall 200 or a door frame 201 . Coupled to the connection 300 of the frame section 500 is a track box 750, which is also supported by the pelmet cover 756. The track box 750 comprises a channel 752 in which a wheel set 796 is able to travel on rails 754 of the track box 750. Wheel set 796 is connected to a hinge 790 and in turn the stile 1022. The position of the hinge 790 on the length of the stile 1022 is adjusted so that the top rail 1028 is positioned a desired distance from the track box 750.

Figure 43 also shows frame bottom portion 1018 which comprises a singer frame section 500. The frame section 500 is arranged to have a wall-side plate 506 in contact with and fastened to the lower inside surface of an opening in the wall 200. Click-in facia 204 hides the fasteners.

Coupled to the connection 300 of the frame section 500 is a bottom track 760. The bottom track 760 comprises a channel 762 in which a wheel set 798 is able to travel and be retailed by projections 764. Wheel set 798 is connected to a hinge 791 and in turn to the stile 1022. The position of the hinge 791 on the length of the stile 1022 is adjusted so that the bottom rail 730 is positioned a desired distance from the bottom track box 760. Midway along the length of the stile 1022 is hinge 770. On the opposite side of the panel 1004 is hinge 1070. Hinge 1070 has a handle that allows it to the pulled so as to assist in concertinaing the panels 1002 and 1004. Hinge 1070 can also be provided between panels 1008 and 1010. In use the lock 1 100 may be opened, and pulled so as to swing panel 1006. Locking mechanisms 800 can be released. The handle on hinges 1070 can be pushed thereby pivoting panels 1002 and 1004, as well as 1008 and 1010. Panel 1004 will be guided by the wheel set on hinges 790 and 791 . Panel 1008 will be guided by the wheel sets on roller sets 950 and 960.

To close the system 1000, panels 1006 and 1008 can be pulled together and guided by their respective wheels. The handle on hinges 1070 can be pulled thereby pivoting panels 1002 and 1004, as well as 1008 and 1010, to move so as to be aligned. Once the panels 1002, 1004, 1006, 1008 and 1010 are in line, the locks 800 can be activated and then the lock 1 100 can be activated.

Referring to Figures 54 to 56, a method of constructing a shutter panel is shown. For ease of illustration the shutter blades are not shown. They would be connected to inserts 1302. As seen in Figure 54, the inserts 1302 are attached by fasteners to top rail 128 and bottom rail 130. As seen in Figure 55, the inserts are inserted in to channels in stiles 1400 and are fixed in place by fasteners. As seen in Figure 56 the panel is 124 is then ready to be connected by supports to a frame.

The shutter system of the present invention is highly versatile, can be make of strong longer lasting extruded materials, such as aluminium, rather than wood and fasteners can be concealed. The system also enables easier installation on site by use of the adjustability of the position of the hinges.

Modifications and variations as would be apparent to the skilled addressee are intended to fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1 . A shutter system comprising a frame and one or more shutter panels supported by the frame, wherein the frame comprises a wall-side plate arranged to be fastened to the inside surface of an opening in the wall by use of one or more fasteners extending through a respective hole in the wall-side plate, wherein the frame comprises a retainer for retaining a click-in facia so as to conceal the at least one fastener.

2. A shutter system comprising a frame and one or more shutter panels supported by the frame, wherein the frame comprises an attachment rail for coupling a support thereto for supporting one of the stiles.

3. A shutter system comprising a frame and one or more shutter panels supported by the frame, wherein each panel comprises a pair of stiles and each stile comprises an attachment rail for coupling to a support for supporting the panel in the frame.

4. A shutter system comprising a frame and one or more shutter panels pivotally supported by the frame by a hinge, wherein the hinge comprises a bearing from which extend in a pivotal arrangement a first arm and a second arm, wherein the first arm is configured to be coupled to an attachment rail of the frame and the second arm is configured to be coupled to an attachment rail of the panel.

5. A shutter system comprising a frame and one or more shutter panels supported by the frame, wherein the frame comprises a post comprising opposite facing or angled attachment rails for coupling panels to either side of the post.

6. A shutter system comprising a frame and one or more shutter panels supported by the frame by a hinge comprising a wheel for running in a track of the frame.

7. A shutter system comprising a frame and one or more shutter panels supported by the frame, wherein one or more of the panels comprises a locking system that prevents moving of the panel when the locking system is activated, but allows moving of the panel when the locking system is deactivated.

8. A stile for a shutter system panel comprises an attachment rail on an edge of stile for coupling to a support for supporting the panel and a central channel extends along the length of the edge of the stile under the attachment rail.

9. A stile for a shutter system panel comprises two spaced apart attachment rails, each attachment rail comprises a U-shaped channel for receiving and retaining a support for supporting the panel. In an embodiment there are U shaped channels on either side of and outward of a central channel extending along the length of the edge of the stile.

10. A hinge comprising a bearing from which extend in a pivotal arrangement a first arm and a second arm, wherein the first arm is configured to be coupled to an attachment rail of a frame and the second arm is configured to be coupled to an attachment rail of a panel.

1 1 . A post for a frame of a shutter system, said post comprising opposite facing attachment rails that act as connections to which respective shutter panel stiles may be attached.

12. A hinge comprising a wheel for running in a track.

13. A frame for a shutter system comprising: a fastener plate through which at least one fastener can be used to fasten the frame to an inside of a wall opening; a retainer for retaining a click-in facia for hiding the at least one fastener; an attachment rail for supporting a support of a shutter panel. In an embodiment the frame comprises a block portion extending from the fastener plate so as to space the track retainer from the plate.

14. A frame for a shutter system comprising: a fastener plate L shaped in cross section comprising a first plate portion through which at least one fastener can be used to fasten the frame to an inside of a wall opening and a second plate portion through which at least one fastener can be used to fasten the frame to an peripheral area of the wall opening; a retainer for retaining a click-in facia for hiding at least one of the fasteners; an attachment rail for supporting a support of a shutter panel. In an embodiment the retainer is for retaining a click-in facia for hiding at least one of the fasteners through the first plate portion and there is a second retainer is for retaining a click-in facia for hiding at least one of the fasteners through the second plate portion.

15. A method of installing a shutter system, said method comprising: providing a frame and one or more shutter panels, wherein the frame comprises a wall-side plate of the frame through which at least one hole may be provided, and wherein the frame comprises a retainer for retaining a click-in facia so as to conceal the at least one hole and any fastener extending through said at least one hole; inserting at least one fastener into a respective hole through the wall-side plate so as to install the frame in an opening in a wall; and installing a click-in facia to the retainer so as to conceal the at least one fastener; supporting the shutter panels in the frame.

16. A method of installing a shutter system, said method comprising: providing a frame and one or more shutter panels, wherein each panel comprises a pair of stiles, wherein the frame and each stile comprises an attachment rail for coupling to a support for supporting each panel in the frame; installing the frame in an opening in a wall; and installing the panels by coupling a support to the stiles and coupling the support to the frame, wherein the position of the support with respect to the stile and or the frame is adjustable prior to it be secured in place.

17. A method of installing a shutter system, said method comprising: providing a frame and one or more shutter panels; installing the frame in an opening in a wall; and coupling the panels to the frame by at least one hinge for each panel, wherein the position of the hinge with respect to the panel and or the frame is adjustable prior to it be secured in place;

18. A method of installing a shutter system, said method comprising: providing a frame and a plurality of shutter panels; installing the frame in an opening in a wall; coupling adjacent panels together by at least one hinge; and supporting the hinge from a rail of the frame.