BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Modern commercial and residential construction heavily relies on air-conditioned interior spaces to the extent that contractors no longer install windows that open. Instead, the focus is on the installation of oversized windows that do not open but provide panoramic views and admit plenty of sunlight. Windows that lack the ability to open are favored in high rise construction as a safety measure to prevent falls of people and pets and to protect pedestrians below from objects falling from above.
However, there are some downsides to not being able to open a window. Windows that cannot be opened may limit your ability to control the indoor temperature naturally. Opening windows allows for natural airflow, helping regulate temperature and reduce reliance on heating or cooling systems. Additionally, the inability to open windows can diminish the connection to the outdoors. Fresh air sounds of nature, and the ability to feel a breeze can enhance the overall living experience. Without the option to open windows, odors within a space may be more difficult to eliminate. Proper ventilation helps in dissipating smells and maintaining a fresher indoor environment. Lack of ventilation can contribute to moisture buildup, leading to issues such as mold growth and dampness. Adequate ventilation is essential for preventing these problems.
For the foregoing reasons, an alternative solution is needed to ensure that inhabitants of modern structures are not deprived of access to fresh air and air circulation. Additionally, the present state of high rise and building construction does not have any standard means of mounting windows within prepared window apertures. Every window manufacturer, architect or building contractor retrofits windows on a case by case basis, which may or may not result in a proper and durable fit every time. Therefore, a frame component that enables ventilation without sacrificing insulation, and at the same time providing a standard means for affixing windows to facades would be a much-needed improvement to the present state of the art.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present disclosure presents a device that facilitates exchange of air and wicking of moisture between an interior space and an external environment through a structural frame element of a fall. The disclosed structural frame element is made of a top wall, a bottom wall, side walls, a front wall and a back wall. The bottom wall, side walls, front wall and the back form an interior cavity. The structural frame element is configured to have a plurality of exterior openings, preferably in the front or bottom walls, and interior openings, preferably in the back wall or in the rear portions of the top and bottom walls. The external openings and internal openings are in air communication with each other, meaning they are connected through the same cavity. The external openings opening into the cavity from the outside environment, and the internal openings opening into the cavity from the interior space of the structure.
In one embodiment is preferably that the structural frame member is made with at least two rib structures that are positioned internally. The rib structures may extend from the inner surface of the bottom wall or top wall and are spaced apart and adjacent to each other. There is a gap between each two adjacent rib structure. The rib structures have openings that lets air or water to freely circulate within the cavity. The rib structures may additionally be coated or covered with sound absorbing coatings, corrugations or other structural features.
There is preferably a removable covering that is configured to intermittently block or permit the flow of air or moisture through the cavity. The covering may be deployed adjacent to the internal openings or external openings and actuated using a manual lever or at least one dc motor.
In another embodiment, the internal cavity may be filled with coils which serve as means of slowing down air passing through the cavity. The purpose of slowing the airflow down is so that the air may warm up or cool down to a temperature that is closer to the interior temperature of the space being serviced by the structural frame member.
In another embodiment, the internal coils may be connected to a power source to be heated or cooled as required.
Another embodiment of the disclosed device may feature at least one fan that is configured to direct the flow of air or water to or from the exterior openings. The fan may be controlled by an actuator or through a thermostat that is installed on the back wall or on the rear portions of the top and bottom walls. The thermostat may be mounted on any other structure within the interior space and be able to wirelessly or through a wired connection control the operation of a fan or the removable covering.
The fan, the dc motor and/or coils may be controlled by solar panels deployed along the top wall.
The aforementioned structural frame member may be mounted as a frame for windows doors or as part of a wall.
The structural frame member may be in the form of a holding wall, which may be machined or stamped. The first side of the holding wall is configured to be mounted onto an existing wall and the second side of the holding wall is configured to secure a structural component. The holding wall may contain a projecting member and a removable holding member, which secure a structural component between them. The holding wall may be fastened to an existing wall with a holding pin, and additionally, or alternatively with a fastener. The inner end of the holding wall that faces the interior space may contain a barb member which is configured to secure a decorative frame member, such as a molding, or which may secure an additional structural component, such as a beam or jamb.
The disclosed combination of structural frame elements, complemented by securing means such as holding elements, projecting elements and lateral lips are configured to serve as means for securing a structural component, such as windows, doors, or openings covers, within an existing aperture. Presently these structural components do not have a uniform securement adaptor and are installed using shims that ensure proper centering of the component within the aperture, but which also serve to create gaps that must then be caulked and which then demand continuous maintenance and upkeep to remain property weather proof. The structural system described in this application permits a universal installation of structural components within existing apertures without shims, resulting in better gap management and neater finish.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a sideview cutaway diagram of the disclosed frame element.
FIG. 2 is sideview cutaway diagram of another embodiment of the frame element having a dc motor.
FIG. 3. Is sideview cutaway diagram of a frame element having fan and coils.
FIG. 4 is a top view of another embodiment of the present invention demonstrating the operation of the disclosed frame component as a window mounting member.
FIG. 5 is a top view of another embodiment of the structural frame component serving as a window mounting member.
FIG. 6 is a demonstration of coils that may be inserted into the cavity of the structural frame component.
FIG. 7 is a demonstration of a full system of structural frame members as used to mount structural components and ventilate interior spaces.
FIG. 8 is a demonstration of a full system of structural frame members, but without ventilation.
FIG. 9 is a demonstration of utilizing holding bars to secure a structural component.
FIG. 10 is a diagram of the method enabled by the structural elements disclosed in the present invention.
FIG. 11 demonstrating another embodiment of the disclosed structural frame element.
FIG. 12 is a scale diagram of the structural frame element deployed within a window aperture.
FIG. 12B is a general diagram of the structural frame that may be deployed within a structural aperture.
FIG. 13A is a diagram of the basic wall.
FIGS. 13-25 demonstrate various embodiments of the holding wall.
FIG. 25A is an embodiment of a holding wall producing by stamping.
FIGS. 26-30 are diagrams of alternative embodiments of structural frame member featuring unitary projecting member and/or extendable lateral lip slidingly retained within the front wall of the structural frame member.
FIG. 27A is a diagram of structural frame members installed side by side with a structural component secured between them.
FIGS. 31-33 are diagrams demonstrating various embodiments of structural frame members with and without various accessories.
FIGS. 33A and 33B demonstrate the various embodiment of the holding elements for securing structural member within the disclosed frame members.
FIG. 34 is a method diagram of the method enabled by the disclosed system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. Identical elements in the various figures are identified with the same reference numerals.
Reference will now be made in detail to embodiment of the present invention. Such embodiments are provided by way of explanation of the present invention, which is not intended to be limited thereto. In fact, those of ordinary skill in the art may appreciate upon reading the present specification and viewing the present drawings that various modifications and variations can be made thereto.
Shown in FIG. 1 is a structural frame element 10, which may be comprised of a single element of the frame such a sill, head or jamb of a window or door frame or may be more than one element of a frame. As shown in FIG. 1, are right and left jambs 10a and 10b respectively, or may form a head and sill components, or a component of an existing wall or a building or a partition or barrier of a berth or cabin of a ship or panels of water vehicles. Boats, and other watercraft that are stored over prolonged periods of time tend to suffer from buildup of humidity and staleness within internal compartments, which sometimes results in buildup of mold and mildew, and generally requires regular and routine ventilation to avoid long term damage. Paneling or framework that may be open for ventilation can substantially alleviate this concern. With respect to vehicles, ventilating panels may be used to reduce the risk of leaving children within locked vehicles. A separate system may be used to detect the presence of an occupant and may enable ventilation through paneling. Unlike ventilation through windows, ventilation through paneling will maintain security of internal compartments and prevent moisture penetration.
It should be noted that the disclosed frame element 10 may be used as horizonal members of a frame, such as sill or head members, or a horizontal or vertical member of a wall structure. Each structural frame element is made of the top wall 20, a bottom wall 30, side walls 40, a front wall 50 and a back wall 60. The bottom wall 30, the sidewalls 70 (shown is the location where the sidewalls 70 would enclose the cavity 80), the front wall 50 and the back wall 60 structured together enclosing a cavity 80. Also shown is one to plurality of exterior openings 90 opening into the cavity 80 from the outside environment 95, and one to plurality of interior openings 100 opening into the cavity 80. Both exterior openings 90 and interior openings 100 may be a single opening or a plurality of slots in any shape or size, such as elongated slots. Cavity 80 is structured to provide an air or water/moisture flow in between the exterior openings 90 and the interior openings 100, thus establishing an air communication 110 that is configured to channel air or water through the cavity 80 in the direction toward the outside environment 95 or in the direction towards the interior space 105.
Air communication 110 can be interrupted or resumed with the assistance of removable covering shown in FIG. 1 as levers 120 which are configured to move in the direction 125 to either open or close the interior openings 100. The removable covering can alternatively be mounted to cover the exterior openings 90 or along the length of the cavity 80. It must be noted that while the frame elements 10a and 10b are placed vertically in FIG. 1 and represent left and right jamb frame components of a window 15, the frame elements 10 may be placed horizontally or diagonally and serve as frame components for a door or as part of a wall system where a wall may contain a block of panels or cinder blocks, with intersection of frame components 10 to provide ventilation between the outside environment 95 and the interior spaces 105.
Another embodiment of structural frame elements 10 is shown in FIG. 2. It is preferred that the exterior openings 90 are disposed within said front 50 wall or a forward section 34 of said bottom wall 30. Additionally, the forward section 24 of the top wall 20 may be sloping such that water drainage is achieved in the bottom frame 10b and additional light is enabled into to the window 15. Similarly, it is preferrable that the interior openings 100 are disposed within the back wall 60 or a rear section 36 of the bottom wall 30 or the rear section 26 of the top wall 20.
Additionally shown in FIG. 2, within the cavity 80 there are at least two rib structures 130. Each of the rib structures 130 extending from the inner surface 28 of the top wall 20 or the inner surface 38 of the bottom wall 30. There is generally a plurality of the rib structures 130, and these are arranged with at least two rib structures 130 being in an adjacent and spaced apart orientation from each other, with the space in between two adjacent rib structures forming a gap 136. Additionally, each of the rib structures 130 have an opening 132. The rib structures 130 are generally disposed across the height and width of the cavity 80 and extend at an angle, preferably a right angle, or an angle that is greater or lesser than perpendicular, from the inner surface 28 of the top wall 20 to the inner surface 38 of the bottom wall 30. The opening 132 may be created by terminating a rib structure 130 before it reaches the opposite wall (20 or 30) as shown in FIG. 2. Or by making an opening anywhere along the length of each rib structure 130. While only one opening 132 is shown, it is understood that each rib structure 130 may contain a plurality of the openings through the rib structure 130 and these openings 132 may be coaxial, meaning on the same level or plane with a similar opening on an adjacent rib structure 130, or not coaxial with openings 132 of adjacent rib structures 130.
The purpose of the openings 132 is to provide uninterrupted air communication 110, which is represented by the flow of air or moisture through the cavity 80 between the interior openings 100 and exterior openings 90. The flow of air originates from the interior openings 90 or exterior openings 100 and flows through the openings 132 within each rib structure 130, and through the gaps 138 between adjacent rib structures 130 until the opposite openings, either interior or exterior (100 or 90) whatever the case may be.
Still referring to FIG. 2, shown are two embodiments of removable covering. In the top frame element 10a the removable covering is a manually operated lever or rod 120 having a hand activated actuator 122 for moving the lever in the direction (125). In the bottom frame element 10b, the removable covering is configured using a motor, shown is a dc motor 72, that is connected to a drive gear 74 with a belt drive 75. A moving belt 77 is the removable automated covering. The dc motor 72 causes the drive gear 74 to displace the open section 76 to move aware from the interior openings 100 to close the cavity 80 to air communication 110 or to open the air communication 110 by placing the open section 76 of the moving belt 77 opposite the interior openings 100. While the removable covering in 10a and 10b is shown to be covering the interior openings 100, it can alternatively be placed against the exterior openings 90 or anywhere along the length of the cavity 80. The removable cover 120 or 76 is therefore configured to close or open air or moisture flow between the plurality of exterior openings 90 and the plurality of interior openings 100.
The front and back surfaces of the rib structures 130 may be coated in a sound absorbing layer, material, or structural surface 134, such as soft materials or materials having noise deadening qualities and/or shapes, such as corrugations or egg-crate shape as shown in FIG. 2. Thus, the rib structures 130 may serve to interfere with noise leakage into the interior space 105 from the outside 95 and vice versa. Some or all of the rib structures 130 within the cavity 80 may contain noise absorbing surface 134.
Also shown in the embodiment in FIG. 2. Is a removable back wall 60, which is mounted using snap lips 62 over the top and bottom walls 20 and 30. Additionally, in the case of a motor driven removable covering 77, the motor may be operated using the actuator 64 or in a more automated setting with a thermostat activated switch 66. The removable back wall 60 may be completely removable or partially removable, for example, by having one edge attached to the body of the frame element through a hinge. The thermostat switch 66 may be deployed on the structural frame element 10 or in any other location and control the operation of electrical components within the structural frame element wirelessly or through a wired connection.
In another embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the cavity 80 further comprises a plurality of interior coils 140. The coils may be real electrical conducting coils and connected to a power source or be a plurality of geometrically shaped objects which fill the entirety of the empty space of the cavity 80 that is not filled by another object. The purpose of the ‘filler’ coils 140 is to slow the air current traveling through the cavity 80. During the slowdown, the filler coils 140 function as air temperature exchange mechanism during which the air from the exterior openings 90 that is trapped inside the cavity 80 will be warmed or cooled to some extent by the air entering from the interior openings 100. Alternatively, coils 140 may be connected to a power source and may warm or cool the interior space based on the setting of a thermostat 66. The interior coils may be connected to the power grid of the structure where the frame elements 10a and 10b are installed. Alternatively, a battery may be installed within the cavity 80. In another alternative, the top wall 20 may support solar panels.
Also shown in FIG. 3 is at least one fan 150 and a removable filter 160. The fan or fans 150 may be a drum fan or a blade fan. There may be one or several fans connected inline along the width of cavity 80 or there may be several fans 150 deployed throughout cavity 80. Fan 150 may be directed to channel air flow towards or away from the exterior openings 90 or the interior openings 100. A removable filter 160 as well as the components of the cavity may be accessed through the removable panel that serves as the back wall 60.
FIG. 4 demonstrates another alternative embodiment of the support frame element 10. Shown are the back front wall 50, the back wall 60, the top wall 20 and the bottom wall 30. The cavity 80 in enclosed by sidewalls (70). Shown is the first attachment fastener 200, having a holding part 202 and an insert part 204. The holding part 202 held within a groove or socket 206 of the bottom wall 30. The insert part 204 secured within an existing wall 210. Preferably the insert part 204 is attached in between an sheeting surface 211, such as sheetrock, plywood, insulation or a masonry layer. While one first attachment fastener 200 is shown, there are preferably a plurality of first attachment fasteners 200. Additionally, the groove or socket 206 may be provided a plurality of additional points to accommodate the various widths and wall compositions of the wall 210.
Shown in FIG. 4 is an embodiment having additional overlapping lips 220 that serve to block the exterior openings 90. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the overlapping lips are comprised of a lower lip 222 and an upper lip 226 that overlap each other, forming a channel 226. The channel 226 permits for air circulation, while the overlap of the lips 222 and 224 prevents excess moisture from reaching the exterior openings 90.
In the embodiment in FIG. 4 shown is the at least one locking slot 236. The locking slot 236 is utilized to removably secure, or couple with the holding element 230. The holding element 230 is comprised of the holding part 232, which is locked within the locking slot 236, and an insert part 234 which secures the rear edge 17 of the structural element 15, which is preferably a window, but may also be a door different block types or other structural elements.
Additionally shown in FIG. 4 is an alternative embodiment of the back wall 60, which is removably mounted onto the back of the bottom wall 30 and top wall 20. The removable mounting is accomplished via snap coupling 62, but may be done with a latch, fastener or hinged attachment. The backwall 60 is in the form of a decorative molding 260, such that the structural frame element 10 shown in FIG. 4 not only services a structural system for securing a window 15 within a wall 210, but also as a holding element for the decorative molding 260, which may still be movable, or which may be opened to gain access to the removable filter 160. Additionally, the structural frame component 10 may be secured to the wall 210 using at least one, and preferably a plurality of, the second fastener 232, which is preferably inserted through both top and bottom walls 20 and 30 into an existing stud or cinder block 214. A groove or slot 236 may exist within the top wall 20 to conceal the head 234 of the second fastener 232.
It should be noted that FIG. 5 is cutaway diagram locking from top down to a cross section of a wall 210. Thus the structural frame element 10 is deployed lengthwise from the back of the wall 210a to the front of the wall 210b. It should be noted that the disclosed structural frame element 10 and a second structural frame element (11) that is in a parallel and spaced apart orientation with the structural frame element, may form a head and sill of an aperture (18) or side frame elements. The width of the structural frame element 10 would then be equal to the height of the window 15 or the window aperture of the wall 210. FIG. 5 demonstrates the at least one fastener element 200 secured between the wall layers 211 and 213a. Layer 211 may be insulation, while layer 213a is tape on top of insulation, with layer 213b being the cross section of an exterior cladding panel of a building façade. Additional fastener element 200 may be deployed adjacent to, as well as below and above the fastener element shown. The fastener element is shown inserted above the waterproof membrane 216 of the existing stud or cinder block layer 214.
The locking slot 236 is shown in a dovetail shape such that the holding element 230 should be security held and not give way when the window 15 is installed, or after installation, as the result of wind pressures and age. Alternatively, the locking slot 236, and the holding slot 206, may be substantially parallelogrammical, triangular, circular or made in a plurality of other shapes.
FIG. 6 shows one embodiment of the coils 140. The coils 140 are utilized in the present invention as filler for the cavity 80. While a plurality of embodiments and shapes may be utilized, one example of the coils 140 is shown in FIG. 6 substantially in shape of a spur gear having a body 142, top lands 144 and bottom lands 146. The center 148 of the body 142 is preferably empty. The coils 140 may be placed within the cavity with back face 152 against the front face 154. As such, a plurality of face protrusions 150 having spaces 152 between the protrusions are required to ensure that coils 140 are not clumped too closely together. As shown a plurality of coils 140 filling the cavity 80 is used to impede air flow (110) flowing in from the internal space and from the exterior through the interior openings 100 and exterior openings 90, respectively. While the air flow navigates between the openings 148, 146 and 152 of the coils, the two air flows mix causing the outer temperature to warm while cooling the air flow from within, or on the contrary, to cool down if the interior air is cooler than air outside the wall of a structure. This air circulation causes air flow out of the internal openings 100 into the interior space 105 has been warmed or cooled several degrees to be close to the temperature in the interior space. The coils are preferably between 3 mm and 4 cm in diameter, but may be made even larger based on application. Additionally, shown are filler coils, and it should be noted that conventional electrical coils may be provided and connected to a power source to head the environment within the cavity 80 using electric current.
FIG. 7 demonstrates how the structural system that can be used to install structural components, namely windows 15 within existing apertures 18 of the wall 210. The system requires a structural frame element 10 to be utilized with another or second structural frame element 11, with the structural frame element 10 and the second structural frame element 11 being in a parallel and spaced apart configuration with each other along either side of the aperture 18.
Each structural frame element is mounted against the wall 210 using at least one first fastening element 200 and at least one second fastener 242. There are a plurality of locking slots 236. It is preferred that the locking slots on the structural frame element 10 and the second structural frame element 11 function as a pair of locking slots as 236a and 236b. There is a plurality of pairs of locking slots 236a and 236b to accommodate windows 15 of various widths and sizes.
Shown in FIG. 7 is a holding bar 250, which is an alternative embodiment of the holding element (230). The distal ends 254 of the holding bar 250 are locked into openings 237a and 237b of the locking slots 236 which face each other and form a locking pair. The holding bar 250 preferably comprises at least one cushioning element 252 facing the structural element 15 being deployed within aperture 18. The holding bar 250 may further comprise a mounting lug 258 to accepting a decorative finish cladding panel. The structural element 15 is then locked in within the structural system incorporating structural frame elements 10 and 11 using one ore more holding bars 250 and one or more second holding bars 250a.
One or both of the structural frame elements are comprised of the top wall 20, bottom wall 30, the front wall 50 and the back wall 60. The back wall may be in the shape of a finishing molding, which may be snaped into place and be removable. The exterior openings 90 may additionally be comprised of overlapping lips 250, with the cavity 80 featuring an additional set of rib projections 228 in addition to the rib projections 130 having sound insulating coating 134 and having an opening 132.
FIG. 7 demonstrates an alternative embodiment of the removable covering 120, where the distal end 125 functions as a plunger that is secured between the back wall 60 and a protruding inner wall 124, when the removable covering 120 is forced into the slot between the back wall 60 and the protruding wall 124, it is locked into place and the air flow 110 within the cavity 80 is interrupted.
FIG. 8 demonstrates an alternative embodiment of the structural system that serves as an adapter for securing attaching windows 15 within and existing aperture 18. Shown in FIG. 8 are two structural frame elements 300 and 310 in a parallel and spaced apart orientation with respect to each other. Both structural frame elements 300 and 310 have a top wall 20, a bottom wall 30, side walls 70, a front wall 50 and a back wall 60. The bottom wall 30 is adjacent to an existing wall 210. The plurality of locking slots 236 within each of said two structural frame elements 300 and 310 forming a coaxial pair 236a and 236b. Each coaxial pair of locking slots 236a and 236b is configured to have a holding element (230) such as the holding bar 250. One or more holding elements 250 and 250a can be used to secure a structural component 15, which is further secured between the structural frame elements 300 and 310.
FIG. 8 also shows at least one first attachment fastener 200 having a holding part 202 and an insert part 204. The insert part 204 is inserted into an existing wall, while the holding part 204 is held within the socket 206 of the bottom wall 30. One or more second fastener 242 secures the support frame element 300 and 310 to the existing wall 210. Also shown in this embodiment is that the back wall 60 may form a decorative molding 260.
FIG. 9 demonstrates the method of deploying the holding bar 250 within the locking pair of locking slots 236a and 236b. The installer may hold on via 258 and move the holding bar 250 between the locking slots 236a and 236b. The holding bar 250 is wider than the aperture 18. To permit installation of the holding bar 250, one end of the bar is moved up in the direction 257 within the longer slot 236a such that the opposite end enters the shorter slot 236b. The holding bar 250 is then moved down in the direction 259 along the slot 236b.
Disclosed in FIG. 10 is a method that utilizes the structural support frames 10 and 11 that are installed in a parallel and spaced apart orientation with respect to each other within a prepared wall aperture. The first coaxial pair between the structural support members is then used to hold a holding bar. A structural component, such as a window is then installed between the two structural support members and against the holding bar. The structural component is then secured by another support bar 250 within a second coaxial pair of locking slots 236a and 236b.
The same structural system may be utilized to ventilate the interior structure utilizing the steps of opening exterior openings and interior openings within the structural frame elements to establish air communication between each set of openings within the interior openings. The air communication can then be interrupted or reenabled by openings and closing the removable covering 120.
FIG. 11 describes an alternative embodiment of a structural frame element 10. Shown is the top wall 20, the bottom wall 30, the front wall 50 and the back wall 60, which form an interior cavity 80. A plurality of rib structures 130 are in adjacent and spaced apart configuration within the cavity 80, each of the rib structures 130 are oriented across the width of the cavity 80 and may contain an opening 132 or may not reach the opposing wall, creating a space 132. The rear portion of the structural frame element 12b is shown to contain a motor 72, which may activated by a manual switch 66 or a thermostat activated switch 67. The drive belt 75 induces rotation of the belt 77 which serves as the removable covering that interferes or permits the air communication 110 by opening or closing the interior openings 100.
FIG. 11 further demonstrates an alternative embodiments of the structural frame element 10. Shown is the top wall 20, the bottom wall 30 the front wall 50 and the back wall 60. The front portion 12a of the structural frame element 10 contains the sloped section 12c of the top wall 20, as well as the exterior openings 90. An overlapping lip 220 is shown being ahead of the exterior openings 90. The embodiment shown in FIG. 11 is preferably a sill or a head unit of the structural frame element, with the depth of a window or door being mounted on the level section 12d of the top wall 20. The alternative rear section 12b of the structural frame element 10 demonstrates an elevated section having a motor displaced removable covering 77. The dc motor 72 engages the removable covering 77 via a belt drive 72. The removable covering 77, which is shown in form of a ribbon wrapping around the rollers 77a is comprised of the section without an opening 77a and section with an opening 77b. The section of the removable covering 77 with openings 77b moves into place opposite the interior openings 100 to enable the air communication 110 and the section without an opening 77c moves into place to interrupt the air communication 110. The raised portion 20a serves to prevent moisture from getting behind a window or door frame that is mounted against the raised portion 20a, and the sloped section 12c causes moisture to roll off towards the exterior of a façade. Also shown is the actuator 67, a thermostat 66, rib structures 130, openings within the rib structures 130 and the noise cancelling coating 134.
FIG. 12 is perspective contextual diagram showing window 15, the structural frame element 10a the second structural frame element 10b, the holding element 230 inserted through the locking slots 236. Another holding element (230) is utilizing the pair of locking slots (230) located behind the window 15. The the structural frame element 10a and the second structural frame element 10b are mounted along the sides of the aperture 18, but may be mounted on the head, sill or all around the aperture. The height of the structural frame element 10a and the second structural frame element 10b permits the top section 330 to expel warm air 332 from the interior of the structure through the exterior openings 90, while the bottom section 320 draws in cooler air 322 through the exterior openings 90.
FIG. 12B the hot and cold air circulation shown in FIG. 12 involving an embodiment having the structural frame element 10a and the second structural frame element 10b and the upper structural frame element 11a and a lower structural frame element 11c. The top section 330 of the structural frame element 10a and the second structural frame element 10b, and the upper structural frame element 11a serve to expel warmer air 332 through exterior openings 90, while the bottom section 320 utilizes the lower section of the structural frame element 10a and the second structural frame element 10b, and the lower structural frame element 11b in draw in cooler air through openings 90. In another alternative, hot and cool air in a unit may be exchanged using just one or several of the structural elements of a single embodiment.
FIG. 13A demonstrates another embodiment of the structural frame member that is configured to serve as an attachment point for structural components, such as doors and windows. Shown is the holding wall 400. The holding wall 400 has a first side 402 and a second side 404, an outer end 406 and an inner end 408. FIG. 13A further demonstrates the at least one holding pin 410 coupling or extending at an angle, preferably a right angle, along the width of the first side 402 between the outer end 406 and the inner end 408. The holding pin 410 is utilized to fasten the holding wall 400 to an existing wall (210), usually between component layers, such as wood or masonry layer, and an insulation or cladding layer. The holding pin 410 is shown being held within a mounting socket 411 but may also be unitary with the holding wall 400. The holding 400 and its components are preferably made of thermally isolating materials, such as polymers, resins, fibers, rubber, wood or masonry.
At least one projecting member 412 extends laterally at an angle, preferably a right angle, from said second side 404 of the holding wall 400. The projecting member 412 has the first side 414, the second side 416, and a free end 418. The projecting member 412 preferably comprises at least one cushioning member 420 along the first side 414 or its second side 416. The cushioning member is configured to protect structural component (15) from damage during installation. The cushioning member 420 is secured to the projecting member 412 with adhesive or may be held in a socket using at least one setting element 422.
FIG. 14 demonstrates the holding wall 400 with the projecting member 412 being closer to the outer end 406, with the cushioning member 420 being attached to the second side 416. The embodiment shown in FIG. 13 may be used to install the structural component 15 from the outside of the structure, while the embodiment shown in FIG. 14 may be used to install the structural component (15) from the interior space of the structure. Additionally, the inner end 408 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 14 is in the shape of a barb 424 which is configured to fit into an appropriately shaped socket of a decorative frame member or another structural member. The barb 424 is in the shape of a triangle, but may also be a square, circle, ellipse, an elongated ellipse, a rod, a pin, a dovetail, or any other geometric shape, including a rod with snap pins or rings along its length.
FIG. 15 demonstrates how a structural component 15 can be secured using the structural frame element comprised of the holding wall 400, the projecting member 412 and the holding pin 410. The leading edge 13 of the structural component is pushed against the cushioning member 420 during installation. The tailing or rear edge 17 is then secured using at least one removable securing member 430. The removable securing member 430 is comprised of a socket 423 which is fastened to the wall holding wall 400 with fastener 438. A decorative or finishing lid or cover 434 is then placed over the mouth of the socket 423 to conceal the fastener head 436. Preferably, and as is described in figures below, a holding wall that is parallel and spaced apart from the holding wall shown in FIG. 15 will secure the other side of the structural component 15 and such holding member will have its own projecting member and a removable securing member.
In FIG. 16 as well as in FIGS. 13-15, the holding wall 400 is shown to have a span 438, which is a length of the holding wall 400 between the holding pin 410 and the outer end 406. The span 438 is shown curving in the direction of the second side 404. The FIGS. 13-15 the span 438 curved in the direction of the first side 402. The curvature of span 438 is intended to promote water drainage away from interior spaces. Therefore, the holding wall 400 in FIG. 16 may be showing a holding wall 400 installed at the top of an aperture (18) whereas the holding wall 400 shown in FIGS. 13-15 is installed as a sill of an aperture (18) or visa versa.
Alternatively, the outer end 406 does not have a span 438 as illustrated in FIG. 17, where the holding pin 410 issues laterally close the outer end 406. The embodiment shown in FIG. 17 accommodates a structural component (15), such as a window frame, having a lip or flange that covers the outer end 406.
FIG. 18 demonstrates another embodiment of the structural frame member showing a holding wall 400 having a holding pin 410 issuing laterally from the first side 402. The holding pin 410 is shown at a right angle but may be more of an obtuse or an acute angle with respect to the first side. Projecting member 412 is shown having the cushioning member 420 along the first side 414. The span 438 is shown curving towards the first side 402. At the free end 407 a lateral lip 440 extends at an angle, that preferably puts the lateral lip 440 flush with a wall surface. The lateral lip 440 may also issue at a sharper or more obtuse angle than shown to accommodate the angle of the exterior surface of the wall, or the aperture into which the lateral lip 440 may be inserted.
FIG. 19 demonstrates a holding wall 400, having a span 438, an outer end 406 and a lateral lip 440. The projecting member 412 is shown closer to the inner end 408 but may be closer to the outer end 406. The barb 424 on the inner end 424 is shown in a triangular shape that snaps into the socket 442 of the decorative wall member 444. The decorative wall member 444 may be a molding or an interior frame component forming a border around an aperture (18). The barb 424 is in shape of triangle with the socket 444 and barb fitting together like lock and key. The barb 424 may for a lug in any chape and may be used to couple together with additional structural members.
The holding wall 400 is displayed in context in FIG. 20, showing the first wall being adjacent to a waterproof membrane 415 which surrounds the wall 210. The existing wall is comprised of a exterior paneling or masonry layer 211, an insulation layer 213a and the cladding layer 213b. The outer end 406 is designed to extend just beyond the outer cladding layer to enhance water drainage of the holding wall 400. Notably, the configuration of the holding wall 400 enables secure attachment of the holding wall 400 to an existing wall 210 without perforating the waterproof membrane 415 in areas that face the exterior of the wall. Instead, the holding wall 400 is installed once waterproof membrane 415 that surrounds the existing wall 200 has been installed. The holding pin 410 is then mounted above the waterproof membrane 415, and below the insulation layer 213a. At least one fastener 413 is then driven through the holding pin 410 to secure the holding pin to the existing wall 410 and then the holding pin and the fastener is wrapped in a layer of waterproof membrane 415, with a strip of waterproof membrane extending over the strip representing the span section 438. It should be appreciated that the view of the holding wall 400 is a cross sectional view that exposes the width of the holding wall 400 between the inner end 408 and outer end 406. Therefore, there may be a plurality of holding pins 410 below and above the holding pin shown. Alternatively, the holding pin 410 may be a ribbon or rib extending over all or some of the length of the holding wall 400.
Also shown in FIG. 20 is a structural component 15 that is installed from the interior space, with the leading edge 13 secured by the cushioning member 420 mounted on the second side 416 of the projecting member 412. The removable securing member 430 is mounted on the interior side of the structural component 15. The inner end 408 preferably extends past the existing wall 210 and is configured to secure a decorative wall member 444 onto the lug or barb 424.
In another alternative shown in FIG. 21, a layer of insulating material 446 is placed between the first side 402 and the existing wall 210. Additional insulation 448 may be placed along the projecting member between the cushioning member 420 and the second wall 404.
FIG. 22 demonstrates a second holding wall 450 that is in parallel and spaced apart configuration with the holding wall 400. Both the holding wall 400 and the second holding wall 450 are comprised of the inner end 408, the outer end 406, at least one holding pin 410, and at least one projecting member 412, and at least one removable securing member 430. All components of the holding wall 400 and the second holding member 450 are in a coaxial and parallel association with each other, with coaxial meaning on the same axis. In diagram shown in FIG. 22, the projecting members 412 are arranged to receive the structural component 15 being installed from the exterior of the wall 210, with the cushioning member 420 mounted on the first wall 414. Alternatively, the projecting members 412 may support installation from the interior of the structure, with the cushioning member 420 on the second wall 416. It should also be notable that the projecting member 412 may be removable or unitary with the holding wall 400 or the second holding wall 450. With a removable projecting member 412 being mounted within a slot. The projecting members 412 extend toward each other. The span section 438 is shown curving in opposite directions between the holding wall 400 and the second holding wall 450. The spans can curve away from each other, toward each other, in the same direction or not curved, all depending on aesthetics and direction of water drainage. The holding wall 400 and the second holding wall 450 may represent the head and sill or the jamb components of an aperture 18. The inner end 408 preferably comprises a barb 424 which extends into the interior space beyond the wall 210 and is configured to mount a removable securing member 430.
FIG. 23 demonstrates that the holding wall 400 and the second holding wall 450 may be slightly different depending on the construction requirements. The holding wall 400 is shown having a lateral lip 440 that is oriented in a parallel to the exterior surface of the cladding layer 213b. Notably the exterior surface 213b may be any type of wall surface. Additionally, the span 238 of the holding wall 400 is curved in the direction of the wall 210. The span 238 of the second holding wall 450 is shown having a plan outer end 406 with a curvature of the span 238 in the direction of the holding wall 400. As shown the holding wall 400 may serve as the sill and the second holding wall 450 may serve as the head. Also shown in FIG. 23 is a structural component 15 that is held in place within an existing aperture 18 between the holding wall 400 and the second holding wall 450. The leading edge 13, or the side of the structural component 15 that was leading when the structural component 15 was deployed is being held between projecting members 412 and the temporary holding members 430.
FIG. 24 is a detailed diagram of the lateral lip 440, which is part of the span 438. The lateral lip 440 issues laterally, at an angle, preferably a right angle, to the first wall 450. The first wall 450 is shown having multiple sockets 411 for mounting a holding pin 410, or multiple holding pins 410. Alternatively, the holding pin can be inserted through an opening in the first wall 450.
Another alternative embodiment of the holding wall 400 is shown in FIG. 25 demonstrating the holding wall 400, the outer end 406, the inner end 408, the projecting member 412, and the holding pin 410. The holding pin 410 is shown having a holding portion 417 that is coupled within the socket 411. The holding wall may contain additional sockets 452 opening on its second side 404, for additional projecting members 412 or projecting members situated at a different location. Alternatively, all projecting members 412 may be held within sockets 452. The embodiment of the holding wall 400 is especially suitable for stamping, which is cheaper and simpler than chiseling or machining curvatures and grooves. For this reason, a socket 411 or 452 opening the first side 402 or 404, respectively, have a compensating protrusion on the other side of the holding wall 400.
FIG. 25A is an additional embodiment of a stamped holding wall 400 having an outer end 406 and inner end 408 in a form of a barb, a projecting member 412, socket 411, a fastener 516, installed through a socket 518. The structural component 15 is secured between the projecting member 412 and the removable holding member 25.
FIG. 26 demonstrates another alternative embodiment of the support system that can be utilized to secure a structural component or element 15 within existing apertures. Shown is a structural frame element 500 having a top wall 504, a bottom wall 502, side walls 505, a front wall 506 and a back wall 508. The bottom wall 502 is configured to be mounted onto an existing wall 210. The front wall 506 may preferably contain a slot 510. The distance between the front wall 506 and the back wall 508 represents the width of the structural frame element 500 with sidewalls 505 representing the length of the structural frame element 500. Slot 510 may be for the entire length of the structural frame element 500 or part of the length. Slot 510 slidingly retains the first wall 450. The free end 407 of the first wall 450 preferably comprises a lateral lip 440 that is shown secured to the weather membrane 415 using the fastener 413. Slot 510 is shown to be on a diagonal and opening in the direction of the existing wall 210. Alternatively, the slot may be vertical or slanted in the opposite direction. The flange 19 issuing laterally from the structural member 15 can then be secured with a fastener 413 together with the lateral lip 440.
FIG. 27 demonstrates another embodiment of the structural frame member 500 having a bottom wall 502, a top wall 504 a front wall 506 and a back wall 508. The slot 510 is configured to hold the first wall 440, which can be extended to cover additional wall thickness, such as additional insulation layer 213a and cladding layer 213b. The holding pin 410 issues laterally from the first wall 440 being mounted within 411. The holding portion 417 may be round formed as a ball joint to be capable of adjusting to the parallel plane of the surface of the outer layer 213b. The lateral lip 440 is shown issuing laterally in a spaced apart association with the holding pin 410. The holding pin 410 and the lateral lip 440 are shown pointing in the same direction, alternatively, the lateral lip 440 or the holding 410 may point in opposite directions.
The structural frame member 500 is preferably installed within an existing aperture 18 along with at least one other structural frame member, which is shown in FIG. 27A as another or second structural frame member 550. The second structural frame element 550 is preferably a mirror image of the structural frame member 500 and is situated in a parallel and spaced apart association with the structural frame element. The projecting member 412 of the structural frame member 500 and the other structural frame member 550 are preferably coaxial and extending towards one another. The removable holding member 230 is similarly coaxial. The seam between the structural component 15 and the structural frame members 500 and 550 are hermetically sealed by the removable holding member 230 and the cushioning members 420 of the projecting members 412. At least one mounting barb 512 is configured to secure a decorative frame member 444, which functions as a decorative trimming finish once the structural component 15 has been installed.
The front wall 506 contains the slot 510, which preferably pitched on an angle to facilitate drainage of liquid that may penetrate the slot 510. The slot is configured to secure a first wall 450 which is capable of extending or retracting in direction 509, with the lateral lip 440 providing the finish over the cladding layer 213b. The extending first wall 440 enables flexibility on variable thicknesses of the insulation layer 213a and the cladding 213b. Additionally, the insulation layer may overlap with the front wall 506, as shown in FIG. 27B, with the fastening pin 410 and lateral lip 440 sealing the gap. The holding pin 410 is further fastened to the wall 210 with at least one fastener 409. FIG. 27A shows that at least one additional fastener 516 is concealed within the rececess 518, with the bottom wall 502 maintaining a uniform seam with the structural element 15.
The structural frame member 500 is shown having a sloping section 439 towards the forward portion of the frame member 500. The projecting member 412 secures a structural component 15 between the removable holding member 430 and cushioning member 420. The back wall 508 preferably contains a mounting barb 512 that is configured to couple to a socket 514 or a decorative frame member 444.
Also shown is an additional one of a possible plurality of fasteners 516 attaching the structural frame member 500 to a wall 210. Preferably the fasteners 516 utilizes a recess 518 to conceal the fastener head 520 so that the presence of the fastener 516 does not interfere with flush installation of the structural component 15 being secured adjacent to the structural frame member 500.
FIGS. 28-30 demonstrate various alternative embodiments of the structural frame members. The projecting member 412 may be integral with the second wall 504. The sloping portion 439 may be toward the front wall 508 or near the back wall 508.
FIG. 29 demonstrates a structural frame element 500 having a sloping section 439 for the entire width of the structural frame element 500 between the front wall 506 and the back wall 508. An integral holding pin 410 secures the structural frame element 500 to the wall 210. The multiple holding slots 452 are intended for a variable placement of the projecting member 412 or the temporary holding member 430.
FIG. 30 demonstrates the structural frame element 500 having the front wall 506, the back wall 508, the bottom wall 502 and the top wall 504. The top wall 504 may be sloping from the front wall 506 until the back wall 508, with the back wall 508 being wider than the front wall 506. The holding pin 410 is comprised of a geometrically shaped holding portion 417, in the shape of a dovetail, within a fitting socket 411. The back wall 508 is comprised of multiple barb members 512a and 512b shown mounting an additional structural members, such as a member of a jamb or a beam.FIG. 31 demonstrates an alternative embodiment of the barb members 512a and 512b, where the barb member 512b adjacent to the structural component 15 contains the concave recess 512c that faces the structural component thus creating a recessed portion to coceal the head of the fastener 516b. While both fasteners 516a and 516b are shown, either one or additional faceners may be removed or added. It is preferred that the barb members 512a and b are made of thermally isolating materials, which would impede the transfer of exterior temperature from the outer facing structural frame component 500 to the inner structural component 515. The fig further demonstrates the span 438 between the holding pin 410 and the front wall 506, with the pitch of the top wall 504 creating a back wall 508 that is wider than the front wall 506. The lower points 504a and 504b along the top wall 504 are shown as having a pitch, but may preferably be even as they face the structural member 15.
FIG. 32 demonstrates another embodiment of the structural frame component 500 having the front wall 506, the back wall 508, the bottom wall 502 and the top wall 504. The top wall 504 is sloping away from the structural component 15. Alternatively only the front portion 439 may contain a pitch, with the section of the top wall 504 adjacent to the structural component 15 being level and parallel to the side of the structural component 15. Additionally, the span section 438 of the bottom wall 502 contains a pitched section 441, which is preferably between the existing wall 210 and the top wall 506 in the direction away from the wall 210 and toward the pitched top wall 506. Thus both the bottom wall 504 and top wall 506 contain angled sections to assist with water drainage.
Additionally shown in FIG. 32 is the alternative embodiment of the protroduing member 412 and the removable holding member 430. Both the protruding member 412 and the removable holding member 430 are shown to be interchangeable or virtually identical members that are configured to secure a structural component 15 between them. The protruding member 412 and the removable holding member 430 are inserted into the holding slot 452. The holding slot 452 may additionally contain a barb 453 to lock into a groove (412b) on the protruding member 412 and the removable holding member 430. Notably, both the protruding member 412 and the removable holding member 430 both contain a cushioning element 420 that abuts the structural component 15. Thus during installation, if the structural component 15 is being installed from the outside, the protruding member 412 is inserted first. Then the structural component 15 is then deployed into place, and then secured with the temporary securing element 430. The reverse order occurs if the structural component 15 is installed from the inside of the structure. Notably, the protruding member 412 and the removable holding member 430 appear identical and are preferably interchangeable for ease of deployment. The decorative frame element 444 mounting on the at least one mounting barb 512 may contain an angled section 446 to completely conceal the structural frame member 500 or 550 beneath the final finish.
Additionally shown in FIG. 32 the holding pin 410, or at least several holding pins 410 may be held within one of a plurality of sockets 411 along section 441 depending on the number of holding pins needed or based on the thickness of the wall 210.
FIG. 33 demonstrates a more detailed diagram of the protruding member 412 or the removable holding member 430 having a holding portion 412a and the securing portion 412b. A setting 412c along the securing portion 412b is designed to hold the cushioning 420. The cushioning 420 may be made of hard or stiff materials as well. The cushioning 420 may be of variable thicknesses that can be interchangeable depending on the thickness of the structural component, or stated in another way, the distance between the edge (17 or 13) of the structural 15 and the holding portion 412a. The groove 412d is behind a mounting lip 412e. The holding portion 412a is locked into place when the barb 453 of the holding slot 452 enters the groove 412d.
FIG. 34 details another method of practicing the disclosed structural system. Shown are the steps of deploying at least one structural component 400 or 500 within an existing aperture 18. This is followed by the step of deploying at least another of said at least one structural component 450 or 550 within an existing aperture 18. This is then followed with the step of securing the deployed structural elements with fasteners attached to the wall of the aperture. The fasteners may be the at least one holding pin 410 or fastener 516. Once the structural frame components are installed the installed would be deploying at least one projecting member 412 to serve as a stopper for a leading edge 13 of the structural component 15. Notably the projecting member 412 may be unitary with the structural frame member and already be in place, saving the step of actually deploying a projecting member. At this point the structural component 15 is inserted into the aperture 18 between the structural frame members (400, 450, 500, 550, 10a or 10b), followed by the step of securing the structural component 15 by deploying a at least one removable securing member 430 against the trailing edge 17 of the structural component 15. At this point in the installation of the structural component 15, the installer could focus on deploying the finishing trim. The installer would do so by attaching a decorative structural component 444, such as a molding using the at least one mounting barb 512 onto the back wall 508 of the structural component, or the inner end 408. Similarly the exterior of the installation receives the lateral lip 440, which may integral with the structural frame member (400, 450, 500, 550, 10a or 10b). The lateral lip may also be attached to the structural frame member using the first wall that is sliding attached within the slot 510 within one of the embodiment or the structural frame element, or integral in other embodiments.
FIG. 33A perspective contextual diagram showing the structural member 15, which is demonstrated in FIG. 33A as a window. The at least one structural frame element 10a and another structural frame element 10b. Securing the front edge 17 of the window is the holding element 230. Shown in FIG. 33A is another embodiment of the holding elements, namely the projecting member 412. The projecting member 412 is shown as a a lower corner member 412g and an upper corner member 412f. Each corner member 412a and 412f is installed in the corner between a structural frame member (400, 450, 500, 550, 10a or 10b) and another structural frame member (400, 450, 500, 550, 10a or 10b) that is on a perpendicular plane 600, which can also be an existing wall 210. Preferably, there is one corner member 412g or 412f serving as corner member at each of the 4 corners of the window 15, with an additional holding element 230 fitting in between the lower corner members 412g of the structural frame members 10a and 10b, and an additional holding element 230 spanning the distance between each of the upper corner members 412f of the structural frame members 10 and 10b. Similar corner members 412g and 412f would secure the window 15 along the front edge 13, serving as removable support members (230). Each corner member 412g or 412f is comprised of a horizontal portion 412h linked perpendicularly to a vertical portion 412i. A cushioning member 420, serving as a weather and water proofing gasket is installed along both the horizontal portion 412h and the vertical portion 412i. An additional gasket 420 is preferably deployed along the holding member 230 on the side facing the structural element 15.
FIG. 33B demonstrates a more detailed diagram of the protruding member 412 or the removable holding member 430 having a holding portion 412a and the securing portion 412b. Both the the securing portion 412b is shown extending toward the structural element 15, which appears some distance away from the holding slot 452. The holding portion 412 may be secured using two or more barbs 453 within the holding slot 452.
Although this invention has been described with a certain degree of particularity, it is to be understood that the present disclosure has been made only by way of illustration and that numerous changes in the details of construction and arrangement of parts may be resorted to without departing from the spirit and the scope of the invention. While various inventive aspects, concepts and features of the inventions may be described and illustrated herein as embodied in combination in the exemplary embodiments, these various aspects, concepts and features may be used in many alternative embodiments, either individually or in various combinations and sub-combinations thereof. Unless expressly excluded herein all such combinations and sub-combinations are intended to be within the scope of the present inventions. Still further, while various alternative embodiments as to the various aspects, concepts and features of the inventions—such as alternative materials, structures, configurations, methods, devices and components, alternatives as to form, fit and function, and so on—may be described herein, such descriptions are not intended to be a complete or exhaustive list of available alternative embodiments, whether presently known or later developed. Those skilled in the art may readily adopt one or more of the inventive aspects, concepts or features into additional embodiments and uses within the scope of the present inventions even if such embodiments are not expressly disclosed herein. Additionally, even though some features, concepts or aspects of the inventions may be described herein as being a preferred arrangement or method, such description is not intended to suggest that such feature is required or necessary unless expressly so stated. Still further, exemplary or representative values and ranges may be included to assist in understanding the present disclosure, however, such values and ranges are not to be construed in a limiting sense and are intended to be critical values or ranges only if so expressly stated. Parameters identified as “approximate” or “about” a specified value are intended to include both the specified value and values within 10% of the specified value, unless expressly stated otherwise. Further, it is to be understood that the drawings accompanying the present disclosure may, but need not, be to scale, and therefore may be understood as teaching various ratios and proportions evident in the drawings. Moreover, while various aspects, features and concepts may be expressly identified herein as being inventive or forming part of an invention, such identification is not intended to be exclusive, but rather there may be inventive aspects, concepts and features that are fully described herein without being expressly identified as such or as part of a specific invention, the inventions instead being set forth in the appended claims, as currently written or as amended or added in the future. Descriptions of exemplary methods or processes are not limited to inclusion of all steps as being required in all cases, nor is the order that the steps are presented to be construed as required or necessary unless expressly so stated.
Patent Application
20240183217
