Articulated point fittings

Flexible and articulated devices are the best solution for structural glass constructions. Contrary to rigid point fittings, the articulated point fittings are incorporated into the different movements of the structure. The all-round mobility of the articulated fitting prevents bending moments and thus stress peaks in the glass. This positive stress distribution around the glass joint under life loads, like wind, etc. can allow a reduction of the glass thickness.

Hardly ever an exact installation of the structure succeeds; therefore articulated fittings have the crucial advantage that the angles and inaccuracies can be adjusted by the fitting itself. With regard of construction tolerances it is of crucial importance for the general impression of a glazed point fixed surface, that the silicon joints, the flush exterior surface of the glass panes and the mounting friendliness are given.

gebo has developed glass point fittings, enabling to introduce all forces affecting the glass, in a controlled and stress-free manner. Among other developments, gebo is well-known as developer and manufacturer of the SGG Multipoint® fitting system.

Articulated point fittings have a lot of advantages:
  
• Forces caused by the self weight of the glazing are absorbed by the articulated bolts. Therefore bending moments in the glass holes and stress on the glass do not occur.
• Because of the articulated bolt, the fittings must be seen as jointed bearings, with positive stress distribution around the glass joint under statical life loads.
• Twisting or torsion of the structure during installation and under loads has less consequence for the stress onto the glass, than it would if using rigid fittings.
• Installation tolerances are easier to handle, due to its adjustability with a +/- 5 mm standard depth (or more if needed).

gebo articulated point fittings are proven systems with a long life cycle, many years of experience and  numerous references world-wide. Many technical investigations and tests over the years were held to prove the long functional durability and especially, in the case of double glazing units, the optimum hermetic seal function of the point-fixings.

Permissions of usability of the AK- and ZK- gebo fitting systems are testified by statements and expertises of the FH Munich. Based on specific researches regarding load-carrying capacity, durability and controls on 10 year old projects have certified that the articulated point fittings of gebo are maintenance-free.

Definitions for the various ball bearing fittings of gebo:

- ZK:  articulated bolt in centre of the glass pane
- AK: articulated bolt out of the glass pane
- V:   shortened version of the AK fitting
- A:   Fitting with an additional cover
- C:   Fitting with countersunk bolt
- CA: Fitting with combined countersunk bolt and cover   
- I:     Fittings for double glazing units

In the following an excerpt of the production program is featured. Alternative designs and functionalities in accordance with special requests by architects or projects are available.

Due to the variety of implementations, gebo offers multiple types of point fittings. The selection depends on the specific conditions and requirements of the project. In order to make the correct choice we conciliate to contact gebo at an early stage of the project. Beside the wide range of standard fixings, special designs with other geometries and functions are available on request. The following standard finishes are available: fine turned surface, bead-blasted surface or polished surface.

The gebo glass fittings systems are in successful use since 1992. More than 1000 installations and references of all types worldwide and in Europe mainly in Germany guarantee and underline the customers’ confidence in gebo systems. Most of the building councils fundamentally recommend the usage of articulated fittings for exterior glass structures because of their technical and static advantages.  gebo fittings are commonly protected by patent. Copy or imitation is only permitted with gebo’s explicit approval.