This invention was not developed in conjunction with any Federally sponsored contract.
Not applicable.
U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60,541,106, is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, including figures.
1. Field of The Invention
This invention relates to window opening assistance devices for anyone needing assistance opening a window, especially in emergency situations.
2. Background of the Invention
Windows in dwellings can become difficult to open. This is due to post construction changes in a structure. Changes that frequently occur are shrinking and swelling of the window unit due to exposure of extreme elements of weather such as heat, cold, dry or moist atmospheres. Over time many structures may experience shifting due to ground movement and gravity. Dirt deposits collect due to poor maintenance. These post construction changes can cause the window to become difficult to open.
Many windows integrate a dedicated lift area. However, many times this areas is not sufficient regarding the size and strength regarding the occupant desiring to open the window.
This clearly puts occupants at great disadvantage when needing to make emergency exit. This is evident by the fact that there are 2 ways out of a home in the event of fires. Yet 800 kids under the age of 9 die each year in home fires. The problem of window egress is clear and can be addressed properly by the use of my invention. Proper education and encouragement by professional and volunteer firefighters are only available after engineering process is complete. Our invention must be first available.
It is estimated by the firefighting profession that 60-90% of home dwellers do not practice fire drills. To highlight the importance of our invention which could save many lives. After Sep. 11, 2001, the Department of Homeland Security cited that terrorists could threaten soft targets. This included family dwellings. As firefighters, we have a response obligation of duty to protect America from harm at every level concerning safety. Most important problem our invention will solve is allowing us as firefighters to give kids a solid answer to their most common question, which is “What do I do if the window won't open during a fire and that is my only way out?” . Today, firefighters across the country answer “Do whatever it takes.” This is not a good plan.
Window lift areas are usually integrated into the framework of the window by manufacturers. Historically, these are small and present a challenge to the fingertip strengths of many uses, especially the young and others who have dexterity deficits. Additionally handles may be obtained when minimal or no integrated lift design exists. These additional handles require skill to ensure proper mounting. These handles are usually screwed into the framework and the margin for error by the untrained installer can range from crooked handles to unrepairable holes in the framework of the window. Placement errors can cause the handle to become less effective. Placement issues are of great importance to the end user. Other handles do not allow movement or adjustment to meet the optimum position for the user whose needs may change. Once again, without leaving unsightly holes when adjusting optimum leverage is required during the lifting, pushing, or pulling action during sliding operation due to the physical changes of the user. If people of different sizes change living quarters, it requires possible different position placement in order to optimize leverage. Additionally, when one moves from one dwelling to another, to remove this device again leaves unsightly holes in the window framework.
My invention is a rigid handle which attaches to an existing window lift. The handle provides greater surface area for grasping, therefore allowing the user to leverage any additional available strength for the purpose of assistance in opening and closing operation of the window.
The present embodiment should be more fully understood when the written description is considered in conjunction with the drawings contained herein, wherein:
As shown in
To use our window egress assistance handle invention, locate the subject window upper or lower sash lift for vertical windows. The device is mounted by placing the base midline grooved channel receiver (5) into position as to envelope the sash lift 98) which is then held securely in place temporarily by use of set screws (7) which are place in the multiple offset orifice fixation ports (6). The handles when used in the vertical operations should be mounted equidistant from the ends of the window and inline with the user's shoulders.
To use our window egress assistance handle (1) invention, locate the sash lift (8) on either the left or right side for horizontal windows. The device is mounted by placing the base midline grooved channel receiver (5) into the position as to envelope the sash lift (8) which is then held securely in place temporarily by use of set screws which are placed in the multiple offset orifice fixation ports (6). The handle (1) when used in the horizontal operation should be mounted four inches above the interior sill or even with the user's shoulder while standing.
The handle (1) assists the user in opening the window after the window is unlocked. The user grasps the handle (1) and lifts, pushes or pulls. The handle (1) provides greater surface area for grasping, allowing the user to leverage any additional available strength for the purpose of assistance in opening and closing operation of the window, especially in emergent situations.
Priority is claimed for this patent application to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60,541,106, filed Feb. 2, 2004, by Gregory Lawler.
Number | Date | Country | |
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60541106 | Feb 2004 | US |