Abstract: A system and method using a skylight panel within a skylight frame attached to a flexible actuator. In an embodiment, the system provides for automated opening and closing of a remotely located skylight or window. The system may also include a solar panel coupled to a rechargeable battery pack that provides power to an electric motor that controls the actuation of the actuator. Such control may be realized through a gear train with a sprocket wheel that drives a flexible chain-like actuator that is coupled to the skylight panel. The system may further include a control circuit for controlling the above-described operation wherein the control circuit is also operable to communicate with a remote control device having two-way communication between them.

Abstract: An enhancement panel for a skylight or window that may be part of an assembly having one or more glazing panels suitable for being retrofitted to existing skylights, windows and doors. A panel, also referred to as a glazing, may typically be a transparent part of a door, window, or skylight usually made of a transparent or translucent material, e.g., glass, plastic, acrylic, polycarbonate structured sheet, etc. Alternatively, a pre-assembled skylight, window or door, may include an exterior panel and an enhancement panel in a pre-existing manufactured package to be installed as a single new package. The enhancement panel may create a thermal cavity between the exterior panel and the enhancement panel. Such a thermal barrier may greatly improve the thermal properties of the overall door, window or skylight.

Abstract: A construction for removably retaining a first sheet of glazing adjacent to a second sheet of glazing is disclosed including a fixed frame member adapted to be attached to a glazing cap, and a removable retaining flange connectable to the fixed frame member. The flange-holding side wall of the fixed frame member has a shoulder containing a longitudinal groove adjacent to the flange, and a longitudinal recess having an upper edge and a lower edge including a catch. The retaining flange connects to the fixed frame member by nesting the upper end edge of a vertical leg of the flange into the flange-holding groove of the frame member and locking a lip of the flange member to the catch along the lower edge of the fixed frame recess. When the fixed frame member and the removable retaining flange are connected, the flange of the fixed frame member and the horizontal leg of the removable retaining flange removably brace a first sheet of glazing therebetween.