Abstract: A method of installing a combination door unit into a threshold of a house, comprising placing a combination door unit within a threshold opening of a house surrounded by a plurality of house frame studs. The combination door unit comprises a door frame, a threshold door hingedly coupled to the door frame, and a secondary door. The secondary door is hingedly coupled to a mounting frame and the mounting frame, the door frame, and the plurality of house frame studs are aligned when the combination door unit is placed within the threshold opening. The method of installing the combination door unit may also comprise the steps of leveling the combination door unit, removing the secondary door from the combination door unit, driving a plurality of fasteners through the mounting frame, through the door frame, and into the house frame studs, and replacing the secondary door on the combination door unit.

Abstract: The disclosed invention includes a dwelling fixture. The dwelling fixture includes a compartment configured to contain packages delivered to the dwelling, an interior door to access the compartment from the interior of the dwelling, and an exterior door to access the compartment from the exterior of the dwelling. The interior door and/or exterior door includes a locking mechanism to secure the compartment. The dwelling fixture is easily and securely installable through the walls of the dwelling. The exterior door is flush with the exterior of the dwelling and aesthetically integrated with trim that adapts to any exterior finish.

Abstract: A method of installing a combination door unit into a threshold of a house, comprising placing a combination door unit within a threshold opening of a house surrounded by a plurality of house frame studs. The combination door unit comprises a door frame, a threshold door hingedly coupled to the door frame, and a secondary door. The secondary door is hingedly coupled to a mounting frame and the mounting frame, the door frame, and the plurality of house frame studs are aligned when the combination door unit is placed within the threshold opening. The method of installing the combination door unit may also comprise the steps of leveling the combination door unit, removing the secondary door from the combination door unit, driving a plurality of fasteners through the mounting frame, through the door frame, and into the house frame studs, and replacing the secondary door on the combination door unit.

Abstract: A door assembly for a vehicle with two door leaves is stated. In each case the door leaves can be opened in such a manner that the maximum angle of opening between them can be limited. After a door leaf has been opened, the door leaves can thus only be pivoted together so that opening the first door leaf results in closing the second door leaf. As a result of this, access to a space in a vehicle may be controlled.

Abstract: A main support frame is formed from sections of a plastic extrusion and has opposite side portions with peripheral recesses receiving an inner sash unit and outer sash unit each having a frame formed from sections of a plastic extrusion and supporting an insulated glass unit. Hinges support the dual sash units for pivotal movement between open and closed positions, and gear connected telescopic link members connect the main frame to the sash frames for simultaneous movement. A lock system includes a handle on the inner sash unit for moving straps with studs on the sash frames through a connector mechanism mounted on the main frame for simultaneously locking and releasing both sash units and for releasing only the inner sash unit. A screen and/or mini-blind can be supported between the sash units, and the window system with dual sash units may be constructed in various forms.

Abstract: A woodwork includes: a window frame, an outer frame bearing a stained glass window pivotable in relation to the window frame between closed and open positions, and an inner frame bearing an insulating glazing and pivotable in relation to the window frame. An air gap is arranged between the stained glass window and the insulating glazing. The outer frame is mounted mobile with pivoting in relation to the inner frame, with a peripheral seal constituting a sealing perimeter between the outer frame and the window frame. At least two air passages are arranged in the outer frame, one in a lower portion and the other in an upper portion of the outer frame, with each passage exiting in the air gap inside the sealing perimeter so as to place the air gap in communication with the outside free air.

Abstract: A main support frame is formed from sections of a plastic extrusion and has opposite side portions with peripheral recesses receiving an inner sash unit and outer sash unit each having a frame formed from sections of a plastic extrusion and supporting an insulated glass window unit. Hinges support the dual sash units for pivotal movement between open and closed positions, and gear connected telescopic link members connect the main frame to the sash frames for simultaneous movement. A lock system includes a handle on the inner sash unit for moving straps with studs on the sash frames through a connector mechanism mounted on the main frame for simultaneously locking and releasing both sash units and for releasing only the inner sash unit. A screen and/or mini-blind may be supported between the sash units, and the window system with dual sash units may be constructed in various forms.

Abstract: A clothes treatment apparatus including a cabinet having an opening, a drum placed within the cabinet to accommodate laundry therein, and a door assembly configured to open or close the opening. The door assembly includes a second module having a hollowed region and configured to be selectively open or closed in different directions, and a first module, at least a portion of which hermetically seals the hollowed region, the first module being configured not to interfere with opening/closing of the second module. Such an improved configuration of the door assembly ensures easy change in the opening/closing direction of a door.

Abstract: A hole in a door is fitted with an insert The insert includes a frame assembly and a mounting plate which are affixed together and sandwiching portions of the door adjacent the hole therebetween. The frame assembly further includes a lattice spanning the hole. An inner door is pivotably mounted to the mounting plate for selectively opening and closing the insert. The frame assembly is configured to support a screen adjacent thereto and inboard of the inner door.

Abstract: A window assembly comprising a window frame and a window sash is disclosed. The sash is supported on the window frame for pivotal movement between an open position and a closed position. The sash supports an insulated glass unit with an internal blind and includes a primary operator connected to the blind so that linear movement of the primary operator causes movement of said blind. When the sash is closed, a secondary operator supported in the window frame engages the primary operator so that linear movement of the secondary operator causes a corresponding linear movement of the primary operator.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a loading station comprising a loading region which is accessible from a loading side and from a machine side and comprising two door elements movable along a guide from a machine position in which they release the machine side and close the loading side into a loading position in which they release the loading side and close the machine side, wherein the door elements overlap at least partially in the loading position and/or in the machine position so that, on an opening procedure of the machine side and/or of the loading side, the machine side and/or the loading side only starts to open when the respective other side has closed at least partially.

Abstract: A closure includes a panel closing against a frame. A set of abutment surfaces for supporting the panel against applied forces is completed by a displaceable abutment block which selectively assumes an engaged state disposed between an abutment surface of the panel and an abutment surface of a strike jamb. The geometry of engagement is such that forces acting on the abutment block opposing opening of the panel are primarily compressive forces. Certain implementations additionally, or alternatively, employ abutment blocks for locking along the lintel or the threshold of the opening.

Abstract: An automatic vending machine includes a front door, a thermal insulation door, and a latching member. The thermal insulation door is rotatably secured to the front door. The latching member is secured to the thermal insulation door and engages with the front door to prevent the thermal insulation door from rotating relative to the front door, so that the thermal insulation door is secured to the front door without screws.

Abstract: A louver blind structure comprises a frame with a plurality of louver members pivotally mounted at each longitudinal end thereof to the frame so as to pivot between open and closed positions. An elongated member is movable relative to the frame and is so positioned as to engage the louver members. An actuator is mounted to the frame for selectively imparting a movement to the elongated member. When imparting a movement to the elongated member the louver members engaged thereby are caused to pivot between the open and closed positions. A kit comprising this actuator and the elongate member for a louver blind structure is also provided.

Abstract: A half-sized adventure door suitable for entry ways to rooms occupied by children is described. The half-door provides a substitute to the costly modification of existing doors in childcare centers and pre-schools while being in compliance with laws and regulations. The half-door decreases costs and risk of damage to existing structure as compared to other ways of implementing a half-door, and doing so while nurturing the imagination of children with a theme. The half-door is constructed to be attached to any standard interior house doorjamb using self-adhesive tape such that no tools are required and damage to existing structure can be mitigated. When the half-door is opened, lights will flash and music will sound. The music and light colors can be coordinated to match the various themes available.

Abstract: A main support frame is formed from sections of a plastic extrusion and has opposite side portions with peripheral recesses receiving an inner sash unit and outer sash unit each having a frame formed from sections of a plastic extrusion and supporting an insulated glass window unit. Hinges support the dual sash units for pivotal movement between open and closed positions, and gear connected telescopic link members connect the main frame to the sash frames for simultaneous movement. A lock system includes a handle on the inner sash unit for moving straps with studs on the sash frames through a connector mechanism mounted on the main frame for simultaneously locking and releasing both sash units and for releasing only the inner sash unit. A screen and/or mini-blind may be supported between the sash units, and the window system with dual sash units may be constructed in various forms.

Abstract: A door assembly for a vehicle with two door leaves is stated. In each case the door leaves can be opened in such a manner that the maximum angle of opening between them can be limited. After a door leaf has been opened, the door leaves can thus only be pivoted together so that opening the first door leaf results in closing the second door leaf. As a result of this, access to a space in a vehicle may be controlled.

Abstract: A cover assembly includes a base including an opening, a first hole and a second hole, an elastic cover including a first pivot and a second pivot coaxially aligned with the first pivot. The first pivot is rotatably received in the first hole and the second pivot is rotatably received in the second hole, thereby rotatably connecting the cover to the base. The cover is rotatable between a closed position where the cover covers the opening, and an open position where the opening is exposed. The operator only needs to bend the cover slightly, and assembles the first pivot and the second pivot into the pair of holes from the opening respectively.

Abstract: A Bahama awning-type shutter with functional louvers that is strong enough to withstand all tropical weather and test standards relating to and including hurricane force winds, while incorporating the user-friendly, easy opening mechanism of a jalousie. The opening mechanism is an L-angle structure which is capable of moving all of the louvers in unison, opening them by pulling out on the L-angle and closing them by pushing inward on the L-angle. When the shutter is locked against the structure to which it is attached a portion of the L-angle is positioned between the inner face of the shutter and the structure and cannot move outward, thus locking the louvers in a closed position. In this closed position the louvers have the strength to resist hurricane force winds.

Abstract: A gate assembly is provided including frame means for positioning in an opening through which selective entry is required. Barrier means are mountable on the frame means via hinge means and the barrier means are movable relative to the frame means between a closed position, wherein the opening is closed, to an open position, wherein the opening is open. An automatic closure mechanism is provided for moving the barrier means from the open position to the closed position without user intervention. The automatic closure mechanism is associated with the hinge means and includes at least one ramp or inclined surface on which at least part of the gate travels when moving between the open and closed positions.

Abstract: The folding storm shutter provides a shutter for protecting a window during inclement weather, and shade similar to that provided by an awning when window protection is not required. The folding storm shutter has an upper shutter panel and a lower shutter panel pivotally attached to the lower edge of the upper shutter panel so that the lower shutter panel can be extended to cover the entire window, and, alternatively, the lower shutter panel can be placed in a folded configuration against the upper shutter panel when not needed for window protection. A latching mechanism is provided for selectively retaining the lower shutter panel in the folded configuration. Hinges pivotally attach the upper shutter panel to the window frame. A rod removably supported by brackets on opposite sides of the window may be used to support the shutter in the folded configuration.

Abstract: A door positioning system is provided. The system includes a first member and a second member. The first member is attached to an exterior door at a first end of the first member and to an anchor location at a second end of the first member opposite the first end. The first member includes a locking region. The second member is configured to engage the locking region of the first member if the exterior door is opened a first threshold amount. The second member and locking region are configured to hold the exterior door in an open position if the second member is engaged with the locking region. The second member and locking region are configured to disengage if the exterior door is opened a second threshold amount beyond the first threshold amount. The exterior door is able to close with the force of the door closer if the second member is disengaged from the locking region.

Abstract: An external grille assembly for a door. The external grille assembly can include a door insert. The insert can have a translucent panel, an exterior frame with screw bosses, an interior frame with screw bosses attached to the exterior frame, a connector hole formed in one of the screw bosses, and a connector engaged within the connector hole. The connector can provide attachment between the insert and an external grille. The external grille can be removably and pivotably mounted to the insert and connector with a pin. The connector can include a first plate connected to a second plate, a first tubular disposed within the connector hole, a fastener engaging the first tubular within the connector hole and attaching the connector to the insert, and a second tubular for receiving the pin. Also disclosed is a method a making the external grille assembly.

Abstract: A Bahama awning-type shutter with functional louvers that is strong enough to withstand all tropical weather and test standards relating to and including hurricane force winds, while incorporating the user-friendly, easy opening mechanism of a jalousie. The opening mechanism is an L-angle structure which is capable of moving all of the louvers in unison, opening them by pulling out on the L-angle and closing them by pushing inward on the L-angle. When the shutter is locked against the structure to which it is attached a portion of the L-angle is positioned between the inner face of the shutter and the structure and cannot move outward, thus locking the louvers in a closed position. In this closed position the louvers have the strength to resist hurricane force winds.

Abstract: A method of controlling an operation of an induction actuated container cover includes the steps of (a) normally retaining a cover panel of the container cover in a closed position; (b) detecting a target movement of a user by a sensor; (c) generating a first actuating signal to an actuation unit when the sensor detects the target movement of the user; (d) generating an actuation output from the actuation unit to the cover panel of the container cover, wherein the actuation output contains a decelerating and torque enhancing force which moves the cover panel of the container cover at an opened position; (e) pivotally actuating the cover panel of the container cover at the opened position via the actuation output to expose a storage cavity, and (f) generating a second actuating signal to pivotally actuate the cover panel of the container cover back to the closed position.

Abstract: A construction product such as a window or door includes a multi-functional thermal break. The thermal break serves to contact and support elements of the sash of the construction product. The thermal break also provides one or more additional structural functions for the construction product.

Abstract: A colonial storm shutter assembly with improved impact resistance includes shutter blade elements having a corrugated configuration that exhibits superior structural strength and bending resistance while providing an attractive face. Triple, double and single shutter blade elements overlap to provide enhanced structural strength and simplify assembly. Side frame structures include a reinforcing portion on the outside wall which provides increased strength particularly in the miter joint with top and bottom frame structures. A storm bar includes a center storm bar clip which bolts to the side frames of two shutter panels when in the closed configuration to provide enhanced structural rigidity. Center fastening angles are bolted to the side and top/bottom frames at both the top and bottom where the two shutter panels meet in the closed configuration to provide further structural strength and resistance to opening.

Abstract: An improved method and system of temporarily attaching a frame to a masonry building structure. A circular base mount is inserted into a circular sleeve, that has been pre-drilled into masonry by a coring bit. The masonry core is left in place. The circular base has contact with the inner surface of the core, the outer surface of the core, and the top of the core. Adhesive is used to permanently cement the base mount to the masonry core, providing abundant surface area for extra holding power. The base mount has a hooked top web for permanent or temporary connection to a female mount that is held in place to the base mount by rotation and locking. The female mount can be attached to a shutter, providing protection against hurricane winds.

Abstract: The folding storm shutter provides a shutter for protecting a window during inclement weather, and shade similar to that provided by an awning when window protection is not required. The folding storm shutter has an upper shutter panel and a lower shutter panel pivotally attached to the lower edge of the upper shutter panel so that the lower shutter panel can be extended to cover the entire window, and, alternatively, the lower shutter panel can be placed in a folded configuration against the upper shutter panel when not needed for window protection. A latching mechanism is provided for selectively retaining the lower shutter panel in the folded configuration. Hinges pivotally attach the upper shutter panel to the window frame. A rod removably supported by brackets on opposite sides of the window may be used to support the shutter in the folded configuration.

Abstract: A shutter assembly includes left and right shutter doors hingedly mounted between upper and lower horizontal frame members secured over an opening to be shuttered. Vertical stiles serve as the left and right frame members of each of the shutter doors. The vertical stile on the unhinged side of one of the shutter doors includes a vertical flange that engages and secures the vertical stile on the unhinged side of the other shutter door when both doors are closed and locked. The two vertical stiles framing each door retain left and right pivot strips to which a plurality of louvers are mounted for rotation. A louver tilt rod mechanism is attached to and hidden from view behind one of the vertical styles of each of the doors and operates to mechanically link the louvers for movement in concert. A wire rope is positioned longitudinally within each of the louvers to prevent a breach of the shutter assembly through attempted bending of the louvers.

Abstract: A window or door assembly having a secondary sash hinged to a prime sash and movable between a closed position and an open position toward an interior region. The prime sash is coupled to a frame. A compressible member biases the secondary sash toward the open position. A latch assembly is provided including a plurality of retractable latching elements each biased to an extended position to retain the secondary sash in the closed position. The latch assembly includes a sliding operator accessible from the interior region and slidable along an edge of the secondary sash to sequentially displace the retractable latching elements to a retracted position sufficient for the compressible member to move the secondary sash toward the open position.

Abstract: A shutter assembly includes a first and second shutter panel, where each panel includes a missile-repelling membrane panel, a frame having an elongated hollow body with inwardly disposed wall elements forming an inwardly facing U-shaped channel adapted to retain the membrane panel on at least two sides, and a membrane-retaining element separably attachable to the frame, allowing the membrane panel to be removed from the frame or secured within the frame.

Abstract: A sash window includes a support device disposed on a lower end portion of each sash and including a pivot shaft for pivotally supporting the sash relative to a window frame, and a latch device disposed on an upper end portion of the sash for interlocking engagement with each jamb member to lock the sash in position against pivotal movement relative to the window frame. The window frame has a holder member for holding the pivot shaft in position against movement in inward and outward directions of the sash window when the sash is in a fully closed position. A first reinforcement member is mounted in at least one sash rail, and a second reinforcement member is mounted in a portion of each jamb member adapted for engagement with the latch device in the fully closed state of the sash, so as to indirectly reinforce the jamb member portion from inside the jamb member.

Abstract: A flood barrier system for sealing an opening in a wall structure against the inflow of flood waters. The system comprises a plurality of elongated, horizontally disposed barrier elements of a length somewhat greater than the width of the opening. The barrier elements are stacked vertically, one upon the other against the outer face of the wall structure. End clamps engage opposite ends of the individual barrier elements to press them snugly against the outer surface of the wall, providing seals along the opposite vertical side edges of the opening. A simplified clamping mechanism is provided above the uppermost barrier element, with provisions to apply vertically downward clamping pressure on the uppermost barrier element, and thus upon the entire series of vertically stacked barrier elements.

Abstract: A golf ball deflecting window cover includes a window frame and a window that is mounted therein. A panel of transparent plastic material has a first side, a second side, a top edge, a bottom edge, a first side edge and a second side edge. At least one hinge member hingedly couples the first side of the panel to the window frame. The panel is positionable in a closed position positioned in front of the window or in an open position extending away from the window. At least one latching assembly is adapted for selectively locking the panel in the closed position.

Abstract: A switching device for an integrated product, such as a display, installed on a front surface of a door of a refrigerator is provided. The switching device includes a hinge assembly which rotatably couples the door to the refrigerator. The hinge assembly includes a power switch that applies power to the display, and a connector that connects the display to an external signaling/communication source. The switch may be provided on a lateral surface of a hinge plate portion of the assembly, and the connector may be provided on a rear surface of the hinge plate. The power switch and the connector may be connected to the display by lead wires.

Abstract: A switching device for controlling at least two motors has a single converter, wherein the at least two motors are connected to the converter by a power line and a feedback line, respectively. At least one logic module is connected to the converter and evaluates signals received from the converter to generate a control signal for controlling the motors. The converter has an interface for selecting one of the motors to be controlled, wherein the interface is connected by a signal line to the at least one logic module. The power lines and the feedback lines each have a switch. The at least one logic module is adapted to switch with the control signal at least two of the switches for switching the respective power line and the respective feedback line of the motor to be controlled.

Abstract: A pressure-vent hurricane shutter having predetermined requisite strength of shutter framework (1) encompassing slatted-louver apertures (31) with slat-support guides (6) and (7) for protection against storm-borne objects, wind and rain and venting harmful buildups and bursts of pressure from vacuums created on building from hurricane forces. The shutter framework includes structural beams to which ends of slanted slats (5) are attached rigidly. Ends of slat-support guides (6) and (7) are affixed intermediate the ends of both the inward edges of the slanted slats (20) and the outward edges of the slanted slats (25). The shutter framework (1) have hold down tabs (12) to keep the shutter framework (1) from being blown open during a storm. The shutter framework (1) has ribbed hinges (17) to at least one side of a building aperture in accordance with desired shutter style and structure which include top-hinged Bahama Shutters (29) and sides-hinged Colonial Shutters (30).

Abstract: A mine door of the present invention is adapted for installation in a mine passageway and includes a leaf adapted for swinging between a closed position and an open position. The leaf may be mounted in a frame, and a stopping wall may surround the frame. When closed, the leaf is subject to a differential in air pressure involving higher pressure on one of the faces of the leaf than on the other of the faces of the leaf. The leaf, the frame, or the stopping has an opening therein for passage of air therethrough from adjacent the one of the faces of the leaf to adjacent the other of the faces to more nearly equalize the pressure on the faces and thereby facilitate opening the leaf.

Abstract: A door frame with a substantially continuous sealing surface supports a door with a substantially continuous sealing member mounted thereon. A stepped U-shaped frame member has an opening at one end that is closed with a square-cut member, such as a threshold. The frame, threshold and hinges mounted on the frame provide a substantially continuous sealing surface. The bores of the hinge knuckles may be matched with bushings in the bores, so that the bushings must be properly oriented. The heads of the bushings may have at least two steps or raised contact surfaces and at least two indentations or depressed contact surfaces. When the doors are opened, the steps on their bushings in the pivoting hinge leaves drop into the indentations in the adjacent fixed hinge leaf and hold the door in position.

Abstract: A door hold open and controlled release mechanism is designed for usage in a doorway system having an inner door, an outer door and a door closer. It includes a catch mechanism and a catch release mechanism. The catch mechanism holds the outer door, typically a screen door or storm door, in an open position against the closing tendency of the door closer. Movement of the inner door to an open position then toward a closed position triggers the catch release mechanism which allows the outer door to close under the urging of the door closer.

Abstract: A wooden shutter. The wood shutter is installed on the wall around a window and includes an outer frame having a receiving open space and top and mounting portions at top and bottom ends of one side thereof. Louvers are arranged in parallel in the receiving open space within the outer frame. A first coupling unit and a second coupling unit are fixedly fastened to the wall around the window respectively. The first coupling unit has a fixed pivot pivoted to the bottom mounting portion of the outer frame. The second coupling unit has a movable pivot member detachably inserted through a through hole thereof for detachably pivoting to the top mounting portion of the outer frame for enabling the outer frame to be turned about the fixed pivot member and the movable pivot member in and out of the window.

Abstract: A quick release security grating is coupled to a retention frame by a hinge assembly which permits swinging movement from a closed position preventing intrusion through the window opening to an open position allowing emergency exit of an occupant through the window opening. The security grating is held in the closed position by a quick release latch assembly which is locked by an actuator arm urged by the force of gravity into locking engagement with a latch receiver. The actuator arm includes a handle which is concealed behind the retention frame when the security grating is in the closed position, making the handle immediately accessible to an occupant inside the building structure and hiding it from an intruder. A utility hook is attached to the handle and overlaps the window opening at an easy-to-find location relative to the window opening when the security grating is closed and the actuator arm is in the locked position.

Abstract: An access hatch having a frame containing an access opening, a grate, and a pull member pivotally coupled to the grate. The pull member has a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end is pivotally coupled to the grate near the far side of the grate, such that the proximal end is moveable away from the grate from a rest position. The proximal end is normally in the rest position when the grate is in the closed position. A worker, intending to open the grate, is prompted to stand at the near side of the grate and grasp the proximal end of the pull member, to pull the grate to the open position.

Abstract: A wooden shutter installed on the wall around a window is disclosed to include an outer frame having a receiving open space and top and mounting portions at top and bottom ends of one side thereof, louvers arranged in parallel in the receiving open space within the outer frame, a first coupling unit and a second coupling unit fixedly fastened to the wall around the window respectively. The first coupling unit has a fixed pivot pivoted to the bottom mounting portion of said outer frame. The second coupling unit has a movable pivot member detachably inserted through a through hole thereof for detachably pivoting to the top mounting portion of the outer frame for enabling the outer frame to be turned about the fixed pivot member and the movable pivot member in and out of the window.

Abstract: A pressure-vent hurricane shutter having predetermined requisite strength of shutter framework (1) encompassing slatted-louver apertures (31) with slat-support guides (6) and (7) for protection against storm-borne objects, wind and rain and venting harmful buildups and bursts of pressure from vacuums created on building from hurricane forces. The shutter framework includes structural beams to which ends of slanted slats (5) are attached rigidly. Ends of slat-support guides (6) and (7) are affixed intermediate the ends of both the inward edges of the slanted slats (20) and the outward edges of the slanted slats (25). The shutter framework (1) have hold down tabs (12) to keep the shutter framework (1) from being blown open during a storm. The shutter framework (1) has ribbed hinges (17) to at least one side of a building aperture in accordance with desired shutter style and structure which include top-hinged Bahama Shutters (29) and sides-hinged Colonial Shutters (30).

Abstract: A visor and transparent window assembly for a utility vehicle cab roof includes a latch mechanism which is selectively operable to retain the transparent panel closed to the roof or to tilt the transparent panel upwardly. The visor overlying the transparent panel is engageable by the latch mechanism to hold the visor to the transparent paneling in close overlying relationship. Plural gas struts are connected between the visor and the utility vehicle roof to assist in the tilting open of the visor. The visor and the transparent panel are hingedly connected to the roof along a common axis so that the transparent panel and the visor can be opened together as a unit without binding. The latch mechanism includes a hook end which can selectively engage the visor to the transparent panel such that the visor and the transparent panel are latched closed to the roof together or can be pivoted together to an open position.

Abstract: The subject invention is directed toward a blind assembly having a pair of vertical elements. The vertical elements each have a top and bottom and a plurality of slots formed therein. An upper transverse element engages the tops of the vertical elements and a lower transverse element similarly engages the bottoms of the vertical elements. A plurality of slabs engage the slots of the vertical elements and extend substantially parallel with the upper and lower transverse elements. A mounting arrangement interlocks the upper transverse element to the tops of the vertical elements, the lower transverse element to the bottoms of the vertical elements, and the slabs to the vertical elements for eliminating the need to weld the blind assembly.

Abstract: An access hatch comprises a frame, a grate, and a pull member pivotally coupled to the grate. The frame contains an access opening. The grate has a near side and a far side. The near side is coupled to the frame for pivotal movement of the grate between a closed and an open position. In the closed position, the grate lies substantially in the access opening of the frame and blocks at least a portion of the opening. In the open position, the grate is oriented away from the opening of the frame to allow access through the opening. The pull member has a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end is pivotally coupled to the grate near the far side of the grate, such that the proximal end is moveable away from the grate from a rest position. The proximal end extends substantially to the near side of the grate when the proximal end is in the rest position. The proximal end is normally in the rest position when the grate is in the closed position.

Abstract: The present invention provides, in one embodiment, an awning that permits light and air to enter the structure to which the awning is attached, that can be utilized to protect against major storms, and that can pass strict building code standards testing. The awning includes a perimeter framework that is adapted to receive a removable rigid support plate. In an alternate embodiment, the invention provides a shutter that is inexpensive, easy and quick to manufacture, that can provide protection against major storms, and that can pass strict building code standards testing. The shutter includes modular louver sections that have an integral rigid backing plate.