Abstract: An energy efficient skylight construction. A skylight cover is secured by a frame to a curbing comprised of an insulating core, the interior and exterior surfaces of which are covered by non-combustible shields separated along the upper and lower surfaces of the curbing by a gap which serves as a "thermal break" between the highly conductive inner and outer shields. The frame is pierced by drain openings the exterior of which are covered by a filter type material such as foam or glass fibers that is both absorbtive of moisture and resistant to the passage of air. The frame is secured to the outward portion of the curbing and includes a flange extending inward across the gap between the shields, which serves as a gutter to collect condensation which drips off the glazing.

Abstract: A wall vent preferably for use in a high-rise building is releasably opened for venting a fire in the building. The vent comprises a frame, a window or venting panel that is pivotally for biasing the venting panel to an open position and latch means for maintaining the panel in a closed position. The latch means may be either manually or electrically released or released upon detection of heat or smoke, and may be released either at the panel or remotely. Each wall vent is also preferably releasable to an open position from a story of the building therebelow.

Abstract: A system for venting smoke and fumes from selected floors of a multi-story building comprising a vertical smoke pipe or shaft which extends from the basement to the roof of the building and a plurality of vent units disposed along the smoke shaft, one being associated with each floor of the building. Each unit includes a hinged door that opens by gravity force and is normally maintained closed by a latch mechanism that may be operated remotely by electrical or pneumatic means or may be operated manually. A thin metallic gasket seals the door to its frame and further functions as a spring means for urging the door open when the latch mechanism is released.