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FIELD OF THE INVENTION  
       [0001]     THIS INVENTION relates to a clip and frame assembly, preferably a clip and frame assembly for use with a window louvre system. The invention extends to a louvre system including the clip and frame assembly and a method of directing liquid flow in a clip and frame assembly.  
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
       [0002]     A louvre window commonly comprises a louvre system with a mounting frame, clips and plates, or window panes, adapted for opening and closing overlapping rows of plates. The plates may be made of glass, wood, plastic, metal or other suitable material depending on the desired configuration. For example, translucent glass allows passage of light and transparent glass allows viewing through the plates. Metal plates may provide security when closed.  
         [0003]     The plates are each attached to paired clips that are rotatable relative to a vertical mounting frame. The mounting frame supports the clips in an opening in a structure such as a building. One problem with louvre windows is leakage of water from outside to inside of the window during rain. Leakage of water is a particular problem during combined windy and rainy conditions. The location of a leak may be between junction points of each of the above three elements, namely, between the plate and clip and between the clip and mounting frame.  
         [0004]     International patent application PCT/AU02/01588 (Breezway Australia Pty Ltd) describes a louvre system comprising a plurality of clips to which plates are attached, wherein each clip comprises a drainage chamber for draining water collected between clips. When the clips are in a closed position, the drainage chambers of adjacent clips align forming a single drainage chamber. Water collected in the drainage chamber is drained into a lower part of the louvre frame via the single drainage chamber. One potential disadvantage of this system arises because as the number of clips increases, there is a corresponding increase in water volume and pressure within the single drainage chamber towards a bottom part thereof. This may result in overflowing or pressurisation of the chamber and leakage of water into an interior side of a window.  
         [0005]     There is a need for a louvre system that is capable of reducing, and preferably preventing, leakage of water from the outside to the inside of a louvre window.  
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
       [0006]     In a first aspect, the invention resides in a clip and frame assembly for a louvre window, the clip and frame assembly comprising a frame including a frame channel adapted to direct water longitudinally within the frame and at least one first aperture into the frame channel; and a primary clip rotatably coupled to the frame, the primary clip including a first chamber located on its back surface and adapted to channel water longitudinally wherein the first chamber, the first aperture and the frame channel define a flow path for water to flow from the first chamber into and along the frame channel, when aligned in use.  
         [0007]     The first chamber may further include an opening in an upper longitudinal end thereof.  
         [0008]     Preferably the primary clip further includes a second chamber, the second chamber including an opening at a lower longitudinal end thereof remote from an opening of the first chamber.  
         [0009]     The clip and frame may further comprise a secondary clip rotationally coupled to the frame and located adjacent to the primary clip, both clips adapted for longitudinal alignment with each other end of the frame.  
         [0010]     The secondary clip may include a first chamber on its back surface including an opening at an upper longitudinal end thereof.  
         [0011]     In a second aspect, the invention provides a louvre system comprising:  
         [0012]     (1) a pair of primary clips each including a first chamber located on a back surface thereof and adapted to direct liquid longitudinally of each primary clip; and  
         [0013]     (2) a pair of frames each adapted for coupling to respective primary clips, adjacent to the back surface of each primary clip, wherein each frame comprises: 
        (a) a frame channel adapted to longitudinally direct a liquid within the frame; and     (b) a first aperture in each frame channel that is in fluid communication with the first chamber of each primary clip; and        
 
         [0016]     (3) a plate attached at opposite ends to a front surface of a respective clip;  
         [0017]     wherein the liquid when located within the first chamber of each primary clip is directed longitudinally of each clip and capable of entering a respective frame channel via a respective first aperture.  
         [0018]     Preferably, the primary clip is rotationally coupled to the frame.  
         [0019]     Preferably, the first chamber includes an opening at least one longitudinal end thereof.  
         [0020]     Preferably, the primary clip further includes a second chamber including an opening at a longtitudinal end of the clip opposite and below the opening of the first chamber.  
         [0021]     Preferably, the clip and frame assembly and/or louvre system further includes a secondary clip located adjacent to the primary clip. with both clips adapted for longitudinal alignment.  
         [0022]     In one preferred form, the second clip includes a first chamber on a back surface thereof including an opening at a longitudinal end in fluid communication with the respective opening of the second chamber of the primary clip when the clips are substantially vertically aligned.  
         [0023]     Preferably, the second chamber of each primary clip and the first chamber of each secondary clip are in liquid communication with each other when the primary and secondary clips are longitudinally aligned.  
         [0024]     In another preferred form, the opening of the second chamber of the primary clip is adapted to direct fluid away from the second chamber and external of the clip.  
         [0025]     Alternatively, the second chamber of the primary clip and first chamber of the secondary clip may not communicate.  
         [0026]     Preferably, the frame includes an aperture adapted for fluid communication with a corresponding first chamber of the secondary clip when the secondary clip is substantially vertical.  
         [0027]     Preferably, the back surface of each primary and secondary clips includes a third chamber located adjacent the first chamber, wherein the third chamber is adapted for fluid communication with the first chamber of the corresponding clip.  
         [0028]     Preferably, a gap is located between the frame and a wall separating the first and third chambers to provide fluid communication between the first and third chambers.  
         [0029]     Preferably, the gap is of suitable size to allow formation of water surface tension between the frame and the wall when liquid is located therein.  
         [0030]     Preferably, each primary and secondary clip further include a fourth chamber located adjacent the first chamber opposite and spaced from the third chamber.  
         [0031]     Preferably, a gap is located between frame and a wall separating the first and fourth chambers to provide fluid communication between the first and fourth chambers.  
         [0032]     Preferably, the gap is of suitable size to allow formation of water surface tension between the frame and wall when liquid is located therein.  
         [0033]     Preferably, the fourth chamber of the primary clip and the first chamber of the secondary clip are in fluid communication with each other when the primary and secondary clips are longitudinally aligned.  
         [0034]     Preferably, the front surface of each clip comprises a recess adapted to receive the plate.  
         [0035]     Preferably, the plate is spaced from a bottom surface of the recess thereby defining a fifth chamber adapted to direct water longitudinally thereof.  
         [0036]     Preferably, the recess of the clip includes a drainage aperture located on the bottom surface thereof adapted for alignment with a second aperture in the frame in fluid communication with the frame channel.  
         [0037]     Preferably, the drainage aperture of each clip and each second aperture of the frame are in fluid communication with corresponding chambers when the clips are aligned longitudinally with the frame.  
         [0038]     Preferably, the recess includes a seal located on the bottom surface thereof and adjacent to the drainage aperture adapted for directing water into the drainage aperture.  
         [0039]     In a preferred form, the clip further comprises a second drainage aperture located within a bottom surface of the recess providing fluid communication with the second chamber.  
         [0040]     Preferably, a seal is located on the bottom surface of the recess and adjacent to the second drainage aperture and adapted for directing water into the second drainage aperture.  
         [0041]     In one preferred form, the recess of the clip includes an opening at a longitudinal end thereof.  
         [0042]     Preferably, the recess of the clip includes an opening at each longitudinal end thereof.  
         [0043]     Preferably, the recess of the primary clip and the recess of the secondary clip are in fluid communication when the clips are aligned.  
         [0044]     In another preferred form, the recess of the primary clip and the recess of the second clip are not in fluid communication at any orientation.  
         [0045]     Preferably, the clip and frame assembly and/or louvre system comprises two or more clips.  
         [0046]     More preferably, the clip and frame assembly and/or louvre system comprises three or more clips, wherein each adjacent clip is adapted for fluid communication with an adjacent clip.  
         [0047]     In one preferred form, each adjacent clip is in fluid communication therebetween via the second chamber of one clip and a first chamber of an adjacent lower clip.  
         [0048]     Preferably, each adjacent clip is further adapted for fluid communication via the fourth chamber of one clip and the first chamber of an adjacent lower clip.  
         [0049]     Preferably, each adjacent clip adapted for fluid communication via respective fifth chambers.  
         [0050]     In another alternative form, each fifth chamber clip is not in fluid communication with a fifth chamber of an adjacent clip.  
         [0051]     Each clip may include an exit aperture for directing a liquid externally of a fifth chamber of the clip and of the clip itself.  
         [0052]     The exit aperture may be in fluid communication with the third chamber.  
         [0053]     In a third aspect, the invention provides a clip for use with a clip and frame assembly and/or louvre system, the clip comprising:  
         [0054]     (i) a first chamber located on a back surface thereof and adapted for directing a fluid longitudinally of the clip when others turn horizontal;  
         [0055]     (ii) a recess located on a front surface of the clip, opposite the back surface and adapted to receive a plate; and  
         [0056]     (iii) a drainage aperture located within a bottom surface of the recess adapted to channel a liquid therethrough.  
         [0057]     Preferably, the first chamber includes an opening at an end thereof.  
         [0058]     The clip may further include a second chamber including an opening at a longitudinal end thereof opposite the opening of the first chamber.  
         [0059]     The opening of the first chamber of the clip may be adapted for mating with the second chamber of another upper clip to provide fluid communication therebetween when the clips are longitudinally aligned.  
         [0060]     The back surface of the clip may comprise a third chamber located adjacent the first and second chambers wherein the third chamber is adapted for fluid communication with the first chamber.  
         [0061]     Preferably, each clip further includes a fourth chamber located adjacent the first chamber and second chamber, opposite and spaced from the third chamber.  
         [0062]     Preferably, the plate when located within the recess is spaced from the bottom surface of the recess thereby defining a fifth chamber adapted to direct a fluid longitudinally thereof.  
         [0063]     In a preferred form, an opening of the recess of the clip mates with an opening of a recess of another clip so that both recesses are in fluid communication when the clips are vertically aligned.  
         [0064]     Preferably, the drainage aperture is adapted for alignment with a frame aperture located on the frame.  
         [0065]     Preferably, the drainage aperture and frame aperture are aligned when the clip is longitudinally aligned with the frame.  
         [0066]     Preferably, the recess comprises a seal located on the bottom surface and adjacent to the drainage aperture, the seal adapted for directing a liquid into the drainage aperture.  
         [0067]     In another preferred form, the clip includes a drainage aperture located within a bottom surface of the recess and in fluid communication with the second chamber.  
         [0068]     Preferably, the clip includes an exit aperture capable of directing a liquid exterior of at least one chamber of the clip.  
         [0069]     Preferably, the exit aperture is in fluid communication with the second chamber.  
         [0070]     Preferably, the clip includes a collection chamber in fluid communication with the second chamber.  
         [0071]     In a fourth aspect, the invention provides a frame for use with a louvre system comprising:  
         [0072]     (I) a body;  
         [0073]     (II) a rotational member rotatably coupled to the body and adapted for coupling to a louvre clip;  
         [0074]     (III) a first arm attached to the rotational member;  
         [0075]     (IV) a second arm attached to the rotational member at a location separate from the first arm;  
         [0076]     (V) a third arm coupled at one end to the first arm;  
         [0077]     (VI) a handle coupled at one end to the third arm and coupled at a location intermediate the ends to the second arm;  
         [0078]     (VII) a bias member coupled at one end to the third arm and handle and coupled at an opposite end to the first arm;  
         [0079]     wherein, in an opened position the third arm and bias member are substantially parallel to the first arm and in a closed position the third arm is rotated in a direction towards the second arm around a point where the first arm is coupled to the third arm thereby extending the bias member.  
         [0080]     Preferably, the second arm is coupled to the rotational member at a location separate from the first arm.  
         [0081]     Preferably, the frame includes a plurality of rotational members.  
         [0082]     Preferably, the first arm and second arm are coupled to the rotational member such that rotation of the rotational member moves the first arm and second arm longitudinally in opposite directions.  
         [0083]     Preferably, the handle is coupled to the third arm at an end of the third arm opposite attachment to the first arm.  
         [0084]     Preferably, the bias member is coupled to the third arm and handle at a junction therebetween.  
         [0085]     Preferably, rotation of the rotational member is actuated by movement of the handle.  
         [0086]     Preferably, when the handle is in the closed position and the bias member is extended, a retracting force pulls the handle towards the first arm thereby retaining the frame in the closed position.  
         [0087]     Preferably, when the frame is in the opened position, the bias member is relaxed.  
         [0088]     Preferably, the frame further comprises a louvre clip attached respectively to the or each rotational member.  
         [0089]     Preferably, when the frame is in the closed position, the louvre clip(s) are longitudinally aligned with the frame.  
         [0090]     In a preferred form of the invention, a plurality of clips are attached to a plurality of respective rotational members.  
         [0091]     Preferably, a plate is coupled to the or each clip.  
         [0092]     Preferably, the plate is coupled at opposite ends to corresponding clips.  
         [0093]     Preferably, when the frame is positioned in the closed position each plate overlaps with an adjacent plate.  
         [0094]     It will be appreciated that in preferred form of the invention, the clip comprises at least one chamber on a back surface thereof capable of fluid communication with the frame channel via an aperture in the frame. In another preferred form of the invention, the clip comprises at least one chamber formed within a recess that is adapted to receive a plate, wherein the chamber is capable of fluid communication with the frame channel via an aperture in the recess that is capable of aligning with an aperture in the frame. Preferably, the clip comprises at least one channel located on a back surface and one channel on a front surface, wherein each channel is capable of fluid communication with the frame channel via respective apertures in the frame. The above features direct water from between the clip and the frame and from between the clip and the plate into the frame channel at locations adjacent each clip along the length of the louvre. This creates a similar, low water pressure on a backside of the clips along an entire length of the louvre, thereby reducing, preferably preventing, leaking of water from one side of the louvre to the other. This overcomes the problem of previous louvres that leak water from one side of the louvre to the other because of an increase in water pressure along the length of the louvre when the louvre is closed and in a vertical orientation.  
         [0095]     In yet a further aspect, the method may comprise a method of draining water from one or more louvre clips, the method comprising the steps of:  
         [0096]     channelling water along a chamber located on a back surface of each of the louvre clips; directing the water through a first aperture and into a channel in a frame supporting the louvre clip  
         [0097]     The method may further include the step of directing water from one or more other chambers into the first chamber.  
         [0098]     The method may further include the step of channelling water from an adjacent upper louvre clip into the first chamber.  
         [0099]     The method may further include the step of directing water from one or more chambers externally to an outer surface of the clip.  
         [0100]     The method may further include the step of channelling water from a chamber formed by a recess adapted to receive a plate and a plate edge, the water channelled through a second aperture and into the frame channel.  
         [0101]     Throughout this specification unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise”, and variations such as comprises” or “comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of the stated integers or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers. 
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0102]     In order that the invention may be readily understood and put into practical effect, preferred embodiments will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts and wherein:  
         [0103]      FIG. 1  is an isometric view of a clip and frame assembly in an open configuration;  
         [0104]      FIG. 2  is a side view of the clip and frame assembly shown  FIG. 1 ;  
         [0105]      FIG. 3A  is a back view of a louvre frame;  
         [0106]      FIG. 3B  is a side view of the louvre frame shown in  FIG. 3A ;  
         [0107]      FIG. 3C  is a front view of the louvre frame shown in  FIG. 3A ;  
         [0108]      FIG. 4A  is a back view of a louvre clip;  
         [0109]      FIG. 4B  is a side view of the louvre clip shown in  FIG. 4A ;  
         [0110]      FIG. 4C  is a front view of the louvre clip shown in  FIGS. 4A and 4B ;  
         [0111]      FIG. 5  is a cross section of a plan view of a louvre system;  
         [0112]      FIG. 6  is a partial exploded isometric view of two louvre clips, frame and plates;  
         [0113]      FIG. 7  shows a back surface of two adjacent clips, with a preferred water flow path indicated;  
         [0114]      FIG. 8  shows a front surface of two adjacent clips, with a preferred water flow path indicated;  
         [0115]      FIG. 9  shows a back surface of a preferred embodiment of a frame and clip assembly in an open position and including a tension spring;  
         [0116]      FIG. 10  shows arrangement of  FIG. 9  in a closed position;  
         [0117]      FIG. 11  shown a back surface of a preferred embodiment of two adjacent clips that are not in fluid communication with each other;  
         [0118]      FIG. 12  is a close up of  FIG. 11  with arrows indicating direction of water flow paths when the clips are in a vertical orientation;  
         [0119]      FIG. 13  is a close up of  FIG. 12  with arrows indicating direction of fluid flow paths when the clip is in a vertical orientation; and  
         [0120]      FIG. 14  is a close up of a front surface of the clip for an embodiment including a drainage aperture providing fluid communication with a chamber located on the back surface of the clip. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION  
       [0121]     In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a controlling portion  101  comprising a clip and frame assembly of a louvre system  100  is shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2  comprising three clips  200 , each attached to a frame  300 . The controlling portion  101  comprises a handle and actuating arms for controlling movement of the clips  200  and plates  500  between opened and closed positions as described hereinafter. It will be appreciated that the louvre system  100  also comprises a second frame and clips attached thereto (not shown) coupled to the plates  500  at an end opposite that of the clips  200  and frame  300  of the controlling portion  101 . However, the clips have a configuration that is a mirror image of the clips  200  shown herein for the controlling portion  101  and are passively moved by operation of the controlling portion. Also, the second frame and clips attached thereto of the invention include the same fluid directing chambers, channels, apertures and other features as described herein for the controlling portion  101  of the louvre system  100 . The second frame may omit first, second and third arms  301 ,  302 ,  303  and handle  400  described in  FIG. 3  for actuating movement of the clips, and accordingly may only comprise the frame  300 , with frame channel  310 , and rotational members  304 .  
         [0122]     Each clip  200  comprises an outer surface  220  an inner surface  230  and a recess  210  located therebetween. When the louvre system  100  is installed in a structure, for example a house, the outer surface  220  is oriented towards an exterior of the structure and inner surface  230  is oriented towards an interior of the structure when wholly or partially closed. A plate  500  shown in  FIG. 6 , is insertable into recess  210 . The plate  500  may be formed from glass, plastic, wood, metal or any other suitable material.  
         [0123]     Each clip  200  is rotatable relative to the frame  300 . A handle  400  is used for actuating rotation of the clips  200  from an opened position shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2  to a closed position, as shown in  FIGS. 3A-3C  and  6  and in reverse operation. A preferred mechanism for actuation is described hereinafter in relation to  FIGS. 3A-3C ,  9  and  10 . In the opened position, each clip  200  is not longitudinally aligned with the frame  300 , as shown in  FIGS. 3A-3C , but instead is oriented at a variable angle preferably above horizontal as shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 . In the closed position shown in  FIG. 6 , each clip  200  is longitudinally aligned, shown vertically aligned, so that adjacent clips  200  interconnect and adjacent plates  500 A and  500 B attached to respective clips  200 , overlap. A lower edge  510 A of plate  500 A overlaps with an upper edge of plate  500 B thereby forming a barrier from water entering between the plates  500 A,  500 B, as will be discussed in further detail hereinafter.  
         [0124]     The handle  400  is shown with an optional lock  410  that comprises a lock body  420  and a member  430  that is insertable through the lock body  420  and into a mating aperture located on either an adjacent wall or frame, (not shown), The lock  410  is locked and unlocked by inserting a key into keyhole  440 . Preferably, the lock  410  secures the louvre system  100  in a closed position.  
         [0125]      FIGS. 3A-3C  show respective back, side and front views of the frame  300  with clips  200  coupled thereto in a closed position. The clips  200  are coupled to rotational members  304 A- 304 C by mating with member  251  so that rotation of each rotational member  304 A- 304 C results in rotation of coupled clip. 200 . In this manner, controlling rotation of each clip  200  is possible via actuating rotational members  304 A- 304 C. Each rotational member  304 A- 304 C is operatively linked to both first arm  301  and second arm  302  by pegs  305 . The first arm  301  is attached at one side of the rotational member  304 A- 304 C and the second arm  302  is attached to an opposite side of the rotational member  304 A- 304 C across from a rotational point of the rotational member  304 A- 304 C as shown. The first arm  301  and second arm  302  are shown substantially parallel to each other. This arrangement allows for rotation of each rotational member  304 A- 304 C by movement of the first arm  301  and second arm  302  in opposite directions. Also, rotation of each clip  200  is simultaneously actuated by linking movement of first arm  301  and second arm  302 .  
         [0126]     Movement of the first arm  301  and second arm  302  is actuated by moving handle  400 . This movement is more clearly seen in  FIGS. 9 and 10  in a preferred embodiment of the invention. The handle  400  is coupled to both the first arm  301  and second arm  302  to allow for actuation of both arms  301 ,  302  simultaneously. The handle  400  is directly coupled to the second arm  302  at location  364 , which is intermediate the ends of the handle  400 . The handle  400  is indirectly coupled to the first arm  301  via a third arm  303 . The third arm  303  is attached at one end to the first arm  301  at location  363  and at an opposite end to an end of the handle  400  at location  361  as shown. The third arm  303  is rotatable about location  363  as shown in  FIGS. 9 and 10  so that the third arm  303  can rotate form being aligned with the first arm  301  in an opened position ( FIG. 9 ) to the closed position ( FIG. 10 ) shown in  FIGS. 3A-3C .  
         [0127]     As shown in  FIGS. 4A-4C  and  FIG. 5 , the clip  200  includes four chambers  241 ,  242 ,  243 ,  234  located on a back surface  240 . First chamber  241  is located centrally and at a top of the clip  200  in the orientation shown in  FIG. 4A . Second chamber  234  is located below first chamber  241  and between third chamber  242  and fourth chamber  234 . Third chamber  242  lies alongside first chamber  241  and second chamber  234  and is positioned towards the outer surface  220 . Fourth chamber  243  is located adjacent to first chamber  241  and second chamber  234  on a side oriented towards an inner surface  230  of the clip  200 . Water is collected within each chamber  241 ,  242 ,  243 ,  234  and is directed downward via gravity when the clip  200  is vertical as shown or at other angles above horizontal. When the clip  200  is located adjacent to a frame  300  water collected within the first chamber  241  exits along a flow path from the back surface  240  of the clip  200  through the top drainage aperture  307  located on a frame  300 , as shown in  FIG. 6 . A fifth chamber  244  is located within recess  210  and is discussed hereinafter. Also shown in  FIG. 4A  are apertures  252  that are optionally used to secure the clip  200  at a fixed angle relative to the frame  300  by passing a fastener, such as a screw, bolt or rivet, through the aperture and securing the fastener to the frame  300  for permanent/secure fixation at a selected angle.  
         [0128]      FIG. 5  shows a plan cross section of a clip  200  illustrating location of first chamber  241 , third chamber  242 , fourth chamber  243  and fifth chamber  244 . The second chamber  234  is located below the first chamber  241  and is not seen in this view. Wall  247  separates the first chamber  241  and third chamber  242  and wall  248  separates the first chamber  241  and fourth chamber  243 . A gap  249  is provided between each wall  247  and  248  and the frame  300 . The gap  249  provides a seal between the respective walls  247  and  248  with the frame  300  based on a principle of “molecular cohesion of water ” wherein water trapped within the gap  249  provides a seal. Preferably, the gap  249  is about 0.1 mm. As there is minimal physical contact with the frame  300 , there is no additional friction between the clip  200  and frame  300  when the clip  200  rotates between-open and closed configurations. A similar arrangement and walls are provided for the second chamber  234  with respect to adjacent chambers  242  and  243   
         [0129]     The outer surface  220  and inner surface  230  of the clip  200  are split at respective ends  253 ,  254  that contact frame  300 ; thereby providing an effective double seal contact to the frame  300 , in a manner similar to a wiper seal. It is preferred that friction between the clip  200  and frame  300  is minimal when the clip  200  is rotated relative to the frame  300 , for example when opening and closing the clips  200  as part of a louvre system.  
         [0130]     The plate  500  is shown inserted into recess  210 . A pair of grooves  211  are located as shown in opposite side walls of the recess  210 . The grooves  211  may assist with trapping and collecting water from between the plate  500  and recess  210 .  
         [0131]      FIG. 6  illustrates flow paths of directed water flow between two adjacent clips  200 A and  200 B. Only a bottom portion of frame  300  is shown, and it will be appreciated that frame  300  extends longitudinally adjacent to both clips  200  shown with drainage into the frame from each clip and indeed from all clips attached to the frame. It is preferred that the drainage apertures  307 ,  308  are located adjacent to each clip  200  of the louvre system  100 . Water flows along a flow path from between the clip  200  and frame  300 , shown with solid arrows  30 , and water flows along a flow path from between the plate  500 A,  500 B and each clip  200 A,  200 B within recess  210  as shown with dashed arrows  40 . It is preferred that water flows from second chamber  234  of primary clip  200 A into first chamber  241  of secondary clip  2008  through opening  247  in an upper longitudinal end of the first chamber. The second chamber has opening  248  in lower longitudinal end to communicate with the opening in a lower adjacent clip in the first chamber. Water directed from between the clip  200  and frame  300  flows along a flow path along the back surface  240  of clip  200  and exits from the first chamber  241  through top drainage aperture  307  into frame channel  310  of frame  300 .  
         [0132]      FIG. 7  shows close up detail of two adjacent clips  200  in a closed configuration wherein each clip  200 A,  200 B is longitudinally aligned with each other. When the louvre system  100  is closed, chambers align as described hereinafter to allow water to flow from an upper primary clip  200 A to a lower secondary clip  200 B. As shown by arrows  32 ,  33 , water flows along a flow path (arrow  33 ) from the second chamber  234  of the upper primary clip  200 A into the first chamber  241  of the lower secondary clip  200 B via a front second-first chamber connecting chamber  245 . The primary and secondary clips may be identical with a secondary clip forming a primary clip in relation to a further clip below it. Water flows from the fourth chamber  243  of the upper clip  200 A to the first chamber  241  along a flow path (arrow  32 ) of the lower clip  200 B via rear fourth-first connecting chamber  246 . Water flows from the third chamber  242  of the upper clip  200 A to the first chamber  241  of the second chamber  234  of the upper clip  200 A via capillary action and the gap  249  and is shown by arrow  34 . Water collected in the first chamber  241  enters into the frame channel  310  of the frame  300  via top drainage aperture  307 .  
         [0133]     It will be appreciated that a louvre system of the present invention allows for water collected in the clips  200  to exit therefrom into the frame channel  310 . The respective drainage apertures  307  direct water away from an adjacent respective clip  200  to thereby prevent continued water accumulation within the clips  200  when the louvre system  100  is vertically oriented as shown in  FIG. 1  and the chamber drainage aperture and frame channel are aligned. Water flows between adjacent clips  200  exits into the frame channel  310  with a maximum level of two adjacent clips  200 . If all of the clips of a typical louvre system were aligned, the water pressure and volume within clips at a lower end of the louvre increases and may result in water flowing towards an inner side of the louvre to the inside of a structure, such as a building. Such leakage may result in costly damage.  
         [0134]     As shown in  FIG. 5 , water directed from between plate  500  and clip  200  flows within the fifth chamber  244 , which is formed within recess  210  and adjacent to plate  500 . As shown in  FIG. 4 , stops  270 ,  271 ,  272  are located within the recess  210  to prevent the plate  500  from contacting a bottom surface of the recess to thereby define the depth of the fifth chamber  244 . The stop  272  also functions to prevent possible damage to seal  262 , a similar stop (not shown) may be located at an opposite end of the recess  210  to likewise protect seal  261 . Also, the stop  272  may dampen or reduce rising fluid within the fifth chamber  244  in the event of large volumes of water flow. A location of potential water leakage between the plate  500  and clip  200  is at a junction therebetween adjacent to seal  261  and  262 . Accordingly, the stop  272  assists with reducing a potential for leaking of a fluid at this location. When the plate  500  is inserted into the respective recess  210  of two clips  200  located on opposite ends of plate  500 , both ends of the plate  500  are sealed at six points by seats  260 ,  261 ,  262  of each clip  200 . The seals  260 ,  261 ,  262  preferably made of a resilient material also function to provide a force against a respective end of the plate  500  and clip  200  thereby forcing ends  253 ,  254  of the external and internal surfaces  220  and  230  of the clip  200  towards the frame  300 . This force improves sealing from between the clip  200  and frame  300  and also reduces or eliminates passage of light between the clip  200  and frame  300 .  
         [0135]      FIG. 8  shows two adjacent clips  200 A and  200 B longitudinally aligned so that respective fifth chambers  244  are in fluid communication, along flow path shown by arrow  35  (plate  500  not shown). Also shown in  FIG. 8  is a seal  262  shown as a flange that contacts the plate  500  when the plate  500  is inserted into the recess  210 . A seal  261  is located at an opposite end of the recess  210  as shown in  FIG. 4 . Seals  261 ,  262  reduce or prevent water from leaking from between the plate  500  and the fifth chamber  244 . Also shown in  FIG. 8  is stop  272  that prevents the plate  500  from sitting flush with a bottom surface of the recess  210  and therefore assists with forming the fifth chamber  244 .  
         [0136]     Water flows within the fifth chamber  244  from between clips  200  until the water contacts seal  260 , shown in  FIGS. 4A-4C , which is located intermediate ends of the recess  210  and adjacent to aperture  250 , which extends through the clip  200  as shown in  FIGS. 4A-4C . Aperture  250  aligns with bottom drainage aperture  308  of the frame  300  to allow water to pass from the fifth chamber  244  into the frame channel  310 . This arrangement allows for water to exit from within the fifth chamber  244  intermediate the length of the louvre system  100 . This prevents an accumulation of water flowing from a top part of the louvre system  100  to a bottom part of the louvre system  100 . Frame channel  310  is shown larger in volume than a back surface  240  or recess  210  of the clip  200 , and accordingly the frame channel  310  is capable of accommodating a larger volume of water flow therethrough. The water is discharged at a bottom drain  311  of the frame  300  as shown in  FIG. 6 .  
         [0137]     As shown in  FIGS. 7 and 8 , clip  200  includes an outer seal  280  located at an end of the clip  200 , shown as a lower end of the clip  200 A when the clips  200 A,  200 B are vertically within the louvre system  100 . The outer seal  280  only slightly contacts or is spaced from the lower clip  200 B when the clips  200 A,  200 B are longitudinally aligned so that there is little or no force created by the outer seal  280  between adjacent clips  200 A and  200 B. This allows for the plates  500  to form a tighter seal between adjacent plates  500  as a locking force of the handle mechanism transfers optimum force to the plate-to-plate contact without hindrance by contact from adjacent clips  200 . If a force is applied against the outer seal  280  in a direction towards the length of the clip  200 , the outer seal  280  will be forced against the lower clip  200 B thereby sealing a junction between upper clip  200 A and lower clip  200 B. The greater the force, such as wind pressure, against the outer seal  280 , the greater the seal formed with the adjacent clip. The outer seal  280  is preferably useful to prevent water and wind from entering between adjacent clips  200 . The outer seal  280  is preferably made of a flexible material, more preferably a resilient material.  
         [0138]     An inner seal  281  is shown located on a side opposite the outer seal  280 , which functions in a similar manner as the outer seal  280 . However, the inner seal  281  is forced against an internal surface of the lower clip  200 B in response to an internal force, such as a force created by rain and/or wind, as shown in  FIG. 7 . Known louvres sometimes include an extension that overlaps with an adjacent clipping hood. A disadvantage of this arrangement is that it is not possible in practice to provide a positive seal between adjacent clips without weakening the plate-to-plate pressure contact. This results in leaking of water and/or air between plates  500 . An extension  249  shown in  FIG. 7  is spaced from seal  281 , preferably spaced about 0.3 mm from the seal  281 , when the lourve  100  is in closed position and does not function as a seal without positive pressure, when sealing is required. The extension  249  also is aesthetically pleasing and protects the end of the clip  200 , and seal  281  when closed.  
         [0139]      FIGS. 9 and 10  show a back side of a frame  300  of a louvre system  100  similar to that shown in  FIGS. 3A-3C , however, a coiled spring  360  is attached to an end of the third arm  303  at location  361  and an intermediate location  362  of the first arm  301  as shown. The spring  360  provides a force to retain the louvre system  100  in a closed position, wherein adjacent plates  500  coupled to clips  200  are overlapping as shown in  FIG. 10 .  
         [0140]     The spring  360  is relaxed when the louvre system  100  is in an opened configuration as shown in  FIG. 9 , wherein the third arm  303  and spring  360  are substantially aligned with the first arm  301 . When the handle  400  is moved in a direction shown by an arrow  40  in  FIG. 9  towards the frame  300 , the louvre system  100  is closed as shown in  FIG. 10 . The handle  400  is moved within a guide channel  306  located in the frame  300 . As the third arm  303  rotates about location  363  in a counter-clockwise direction, location  361  is moved away from location  362  thereby expanding or stretching the spring  360 . This action stretches the spring  360  thereby creating a pulling force between point  361  of the third arm  303  and point  362  of the first arm  301 , which pulls the first arm  301  and second arm  302  to a closed configuration. A force is also applied to the second arm  302  in an opposite direction to further apply a force to retain the louvre system  100  in a closed configuration. This force is derived when the third arm  303  is moved over the centre resulting in a handle  400  locking force. As the handle  400  locks firmly in place, the stretched spring  360  pulls arm  301  in the direction of the closed configuration. It will be appreciated that the coiled spring  360  shown is a preferred device for creating a force as shown, however, other biasing members may be used, for example a leaf spring, elastic member and the like.  
         [0141]      FIGS. 11-14  illustrate another embodiment of a clip  600  that like the previous embodiments is in fluid communication with the frame channel  310  of the frame  300 . However, this embodiment is characterised by the clip  600  diverting some water away from an adjacent clip  600  rather than water flowing between adjacent clips. This embodiment also has the advantage of preventing an accumulation of fluid and pressure within an interconnected row of aligned clips.  
         [0142]     As shown in  FIG. 11 , the clip  600  comprises a first chamber  641 , second chamber  644 , third chamber  642  and fourth chamber  643  each located on a back surface  640 . Like the chambers shown for the previous embodiments, water is directed to flow longitudinally of each chamber when the clip is oriented vertically, as shown by arrows  45 , indicating flow paths in  FIGS. 12 and 13 . This orientation is preferred when the clip  600  is in a closed position. The third chamber  642  is shown as larger than the third chamber  242  to direct more fluid through exit aperture  620 . The third chamber  642  and fourth chamber  643  each extend around the frame  610  thereby forming respective chambers  642 ,  643  that extend substantially a length of the clip  600 . It will be appreciated that the clip  600  may comprise a single chamber, two chambers, three chambers, four chambers or more, but preferably comprises four chambers as shown.  
         [0143]     The clip  600  also comprises flanges  630 - 635  for directing and slowing fluid movement within each chamber  642 ,  643 ,  644  as shown in  FIGS. 12 and 13 , fluid movement is indicated by arrows.  FIG. 13  shows a collection chamber  636  that is capable of retaining a fluid. When the water fills the collection chamber  636 , the level of the fluid extends up to a top part of flange  635  such that a terminal end of flange  634  is submerged within the fluid. As the collection chamber  636  is at a lowest end of the clip  600 , the collection chamber  636  will be a first location to fill with water flowing within the respective chambers  642 ,  643 ,  644 . This collection of water forms a seal or trap that prevents reverse flow of the fluid, e.g. air and/or water, into the second chamber  644  and/or fourth chamber  643  and accordingly directs flow of the fluid into the third chamber  642  and out through exit aperture  620 . Accordingly, the collection chamber  636  seals chamber  642  from the chambers  644  and  643 . An increase in air pressure, for example from air entering via exit aperture  620 , will be equalised at chamber  642 , thereby assisting with flow of the fluid through exit aperture  620 . Water filling the collection chamber  636  flows over flange  635  and out through exit aperture  620 .  
         [0144]     As shown in  FIGS. 11 and 12 , wall  611  directs water though top drainage aperture  307  of the frame  300  in a similar manner as the previous embodiments, however, an additional overflow aperture  612  allows for excess fluid to flow over extension  613  and into fourth chamber  643 . Fluid in the fourth chamber  643  ultimately exits the clip  600  from exit aperture  620 .  
         [0145]      FIG. 14  shows a front surface of the clip  600  comprising a recess  210  capable of receiving a plate  500 . The recess  210  forms a fifth chamber  244  in a similar manner as the previously described embodiments. However, an additional seal  263  is located adjacent to aperture  651  to direct fluid flowing longitudinally within the fifth chamber  244  into the aperture  651  as shown by solid arrows. This flow of the fluid occurs preferably when the clip  600  is vertically orientated, for example when the clip  600  is in a closed position. The stop  263  and aperture  651  direct the fluid flowing through aperture  651  into the second chamber  644  (see  FIGS. 11-13 ). This prevents fluid from flowing between adjacent clips  600 , which is different from the previous embodiments. The fifth chamber  244  also preferably comprises an aperture  250  that is positioned adjacent to the aperture  308  of the frame  300  as described for the above mentioned embodiments when the clip  600  and frame  300  are longitudinally aligned. Accordingly, fluid located within the fifth chamber  244  is directed into the frame  300  via aligned aperture  250  located on the clip  600  and aperture  308  located on the frame  300 , and fluid also is directed into the second chamber  644  via aperture  651 .  
         [0146]     It will be appreciated that the frame  300  may attach to a panel  350  that encloses the frame channel  310  to thereby retain water within the channel  310 , as shown in  FIG. 5 . The frame  300  and panel  350  may be attached and sealed with a rubber or silicon type seal, an  0 -ring type seal, chemical seal or the like to prevent water from leaking out of the channel  310  at an undesired location.  
         [0147]     It will be appreciated that the preferred embodiment of a clip shown in the drawings comprises four chambers on the back surface of the clip, however, the back surface of the clip may comprise a single chamber, two chambers, four, five, six or another other suitable number of chambers. Although it is preferred that respective second chamber and first chamber of adjacent clips and the fourth chamber and first chamber of adjacent clips are capable of fluid communication, other arrangements are contemplated wherein each respective first, second, third, fourth, fifth or more chambers are each capable of fluid communication with each other. Also, in one embodiment, the third chamber may preferably be capable of fluid communication with the first chamber. Further, the clip  200  may comprise more than one chamber on the front surface, for example, two or more chambers.  
         [0148]     The frame may include a single drainage aperture capable of fluid communication with both chambers on the back surface of the clip and front surface of the clip. Further, the frame may include more than two apertures, for example, 3, 4, 5, 6 or more apertures capable of fluid communication with a single clip back surface and/or front surface.  
         [0149]     The louvre system  100  may comprise any number of clips  200  or  600 , and the number of clips  200  or  600  shown in the drawings are merely examples. The clip and frame assembly  100  preferably comprises a plurality of clips  200  or  600 , for example, more than 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 or more clips. As described herein, preferably adjacent to each clip are apertures in the frame  300  to link chamber(s) located on the back surface of the clip  200  and/or chamber(s) located on the front surface of the clip  200  with the frame channel  310 . This allows for exit of a fluid from within the chambers into the frame channel  310  to thereby reduce or prevent an increase in fluid pressure along a length of the clip and frame assembly  100 .  
         [0150]     The seals  260 ,  261 ,  262 ,  263  located within the recess  210  preferably comprise a flange as shown and made of a flexible material, preferably a resilient material. However, it will be appreciated that the seals  260 ,  261 ,  262 ,  263  may have other shapes and physical properties as long as the seals are capable of reducing or preventing water from passing thereby. The seals may be rubber, silicon, plastic, or other suitable material.  
         [0151]     Preferably, the top and bottom drainage apertures  307 ,  308  comprise elongated slots as shown in the drawings to assist with directing water flow into the channel  310 , however, the respective apertures  307 ,  308  may have other shapes, including for example, round, square, triangular and the like.  
         [0152]     Damping members  265 ,  266 ,  267  shown in  FIG. 4A  function to dampen or disrupt air and/or water flow entering from openings  292 ,  293 ,  294 ,  295  at longitudinal ends  290 ,  291  of the clip  200 . The air and/or water may enter openings  292 ,  293 ,  294 ,  295  from a gap between the clip  200  and frame  300 .  
         [0153]     The damping members  265 ,  266 ,  267  facilitate equalising pressure within connecting chambers  245 ,  246  between adjacent clips  200 . The members  265 ,  266 ,  267  function to control water and/or air movement into and out of openings  292 ,  293 ,  294 ,  295  to thereby preferably reduce or prevent water from leaking to an interior side of the louvre  100 . Members  265 ,  266 ,  267  also function as aesthetic shields that obstruct the openings  292 ,  293 ,  294 ,  295  when viewed from a longitudinal end  290 , 291  of the clip  200  when the lourve  100  is in open position, but allows water to flow through the respective openings  292 ,  293 ,  294 ,  295  when the louvre  100  is in a closed position. Accordingly, the members  265 ,  266 ,  267  prevent unsightly “through” holes openings into the longitudinal ends of the clip as in the case of previously known clips.  
         [0154]     The exterior seal  280  and interior seal  281  in combination with members  265 ,  266 ,  267  form connecting second-first chamber  245  and connecting fourth-first chamber  246 , which are useful to prevent water penetration into the interior of the louvre  100 .  
         [0155]     The invention also relates to a method for directing fluid flow from a louvre clip to a frame channel of a louvre frame, including use of the features described above, for example use of an aperture in the frame located adjacent to each clip to direct the fluid into the frame channel, use of one or more chambers on a back surface of the clip to direct water toward the aperture in the frame, one or more apertures located within a clip recess in fluid communication with the aperture on the frame to direct water from between a plate and clip and the like.  
         [0156]     Throughout the specification the aim has been to describe the preferred embodiments of the invention without limiting the invention to any one embodiment or specific collection of features. It will therefore be appreciated by those of skill in the art that, in light of the instant disclosure, various modifications and changes can be made in the particular embodiments exemplified without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Summary:
The invention is directed to a clip and frame assembly for a louvre window, including a frame with a frame channel and a clip rotatably coupled to the frame, the clip having at least one chamber on its back surface adapted to direct water along a flow path to an aperture into the frame channel. The invention extends to a pairing of adjacent clips wherein one or more chambers in an upper clip direct water into a chamber in a lower clip which is, in turn, directed into the frame channel. Preferably, the clip includes four chambers on the back surface with each chamber in fluid connection with at least one other chamber either in the same clip or in an adjacent clip. The invention extends to a chamber being formed in a recess adapted to receive an edge of a louvre plate wherein water in this chamber is also directed into the frame channel through an aligned aperture. Further embodiments of the invention may include one or more chambers which discharge water outwardly of the clip. The invention extends to a frame and louvre arrangement and a louvre window assembly. The invention further extends to a method of directing water flow in a clip and frame assembly. The assembly may include an operating handle with biassing means to increase contact between adjacent plates.