Abstract: A curtain wall structure has a series of panels mounted in a framework with loop-form sealing gaskets around the peripheries of the panels. The gaskets are clamped into sealing contact with the panels by frame members that overlap the edges of the panels. The gasket section includes forward and rear portions between which the edges of panel is sandwiched. These portions are connected by a thin web that forms an enclosed space around the periphery of the panel. An external connection leads to that enclosed space for pressure testing the gasket seal. Upper and lower connections can be provided to said space to facilitate venting--in particular of the gap between the layers of a double-glazed panel. The gasket section may include an intermediate portion serving as a spacer between the layers of a double-glazed panel.

Abstract: An infill of multiple-layer panels, each with an air space between inner and outer leaves, is provided in a curtain wall frame structure. The panels have peripheral gaskets that provide channels surrounding the internal air spaces of the panels. The channels are connected in at least one group to gas pumping means. In one mode the channels communicate with the panel internal spaces and the pumped gas forms a venting flow through said spaces. In another mode the gas can be held under pressure: this can be to keep the internal spaces filled with a particular gas or for pressure testing, e.g. at the peripheries of the panels.

Abstract: A curtain wall comprises a framework of elongate main frame members defining cells in which infill panels are clamped by auxiliary frame members secured to the front of the framework. The panels are sealed in the cells by gaskets on the frame members. To prevent the weight of unclamped panels from distorting the auxiliary members and their securing screws, they rest on support elements projecting forwardly from slots in the transverse main frame members at the bottoms of the cells. The elements may relieve the auxiliary members entirely, or may rest on them when they are secured. Alternatively the panels may rest on the auxiliary members which transmit their weight to the support elements. The support elements and/or further locating elements can act to align the main and auxiliary members and guide the screws during construction.

Abstract: A curtain wall structure has a framework comprising mullions that are each built up from a plurality of elongate members disposed end to end with expansion gaps between the members, and interconnecting means bridging said gaps transmitting bending loads between successive mullion members. Transoms of the framework at the expansion gaps comprise interengaging upper and lower elongate elements relatively displaceable to each other both vertically and horizontally in the plane of the framework. Resilient sealing members extend externally between the upper and lower transom elements at the expansion gaps. The framework is secured to a load-bearing structure by attachment members engaging both the mullion members and their interconnecting means at positions spaced from the expansion gaps.

Abstract: A structural assembly, e.g. a curtain-walled building, comprises load-bearing floor slabs at successive levels and a framework of the curtain wall has vertical mullion members through which it is secured to the floor slabs at a spacing from the floor slabs. Fire-resistant panels are interposed in the gaps to check the passage of smoke and flames between floors. The panels overlie the rear faces of the mullions over a depth substantially greater than that of the floor slabs and bear against said rear faces to reinforce the mullions against wind loads. Any residual spacing between the panels and the floor slabs can be closed by fire-resistant elements that also form service ducts.

Abstract: A planar structural assembly has a series of cells formed by elongate structural members, the cells each receiving a pane or panel. To provide a weather-seal, closed loops of resilient sealing strips extend around the exterior edge of each pane or panel and are mounted on auxiliary members secured to the structural members. The auxiliary members clamp the sealing strips in compression against their panes or panels to ensure the seal there. The contiguous edges of the sealing strips of adjacent cells are locked in place and a seal formed between them by locking or zipper strips.