Abstract: An optical article for directing and distributing light including an optically transmissive light diffusing sheet and a reflective grid disposed in energy exchange relationship with the diffusing sheet. The reflective grid includes one or more parallel arrays of reflective surfaces configured to partially transmit and partially redirect a parallel beam of light into one or more directions that are not coincident with the original propagation direction of the incident light beam.

Abstract: A securement system for a roof or window panel includes a first side structure which can secure and seal a first side of the roof or window panel and can include a first side structure panel having an outer side flange for integrating or interfacing with roofing or siding which can include insertion thereunder. A raised cricket can extend laterally inwardly from the outer side flange for directing water away from the first side of the roof or window panel. An engagement ridge can extend along or from an inner edge of the cricket for engaging a retention structure extending along the first side of the roof or window panel. An open polygonal channel cap can have an outer edge for engaging at least one of the engagement ridge of the first side panel cricket and the retention structure, and an inner edge for engaging the roof or window panel. The cap can be capable of being resiliently snapped in place and provide water proofing and rigidity to the first side structure.

Abstract: A roof window (1) comprising a frame (2) with a top member (5), a bottom member (6) and two side members (7, 8) defining a frame plane, and a sash (3) having a top member (9), a bottom member (10) and two side members (11, 12) defining a sash plane, the sash (3) carrying a pane (4), the window (1) further comprising in connection with said bottom sash member (10) a bottom sash covering (319), wherein the roof window (1) furthermore comprises an insulating element (303) and preferably also a bottom sash gasket 310 adapted for insulating of the transition between the bottom sash member (10) and the bottom sash covering (319).

Abstract: In the method of installing a window arrangement comprising a number of neighboring windows, a support structure including an upstand is first provided. Each window is provided with a plurality of predefined connection points, and windows are placed next to each other. One window is connected with the other and neighboring window at said predefined connection points.

Abstract: A solar panel mounting system has a plurality of mounting bases which have upper and lower mounting surfaces. In the minimum configuration, four mounting bases are used. A solar panel module is connected to the top portion of two bases and to the bottom portion so that the solar panel module is mounted at a selected angle. Each of the bases has attachment points which hold insert nuts and allows mounting brackets to be secured along the mounting surfaces. The mounting brackets allow the solar panel modules to be clamped utilizing their frames without additional hardware and to be attached from the top without access to the bottom of the panels. The brackets can be industry standard or specific to the system. The bases stack and nest for easy transport. The mounting bases may be secured to a selected surface using ballasts, mechanical attachments or a combination thereof.

Abstract: A skylight system including a support frame and an apex patch fitting that together support a plurality of glass pieces joined together in a selectable shape. The support frame includes a sill and a setting chair that are arranged to support the base portions of the glass pieces. The apex patch fitting may be of selectable shape and includes an upper and lower member to retain the peaks or corners of the glass therebetween. The apex patch fitting includes one or more positioning keys to align and secure the glass pieces. A method of making the skylights includes the use of an apex retainer tool to maintain the apex patch fitting in a fixed position while placing glass pieces on it. Multiple apex patch fittings can be used for a skylight, including a skylight that is ridge shaped or hipped ridge shape.

Abstract: A roof load support structure supports a load on a roof such that substantially all of the load is conveyed through rails, which are mounted on roof panel ribs, thence through roof panel ribs, and to underlying building support structure. The panel flat between the rails can be unobstructed such that water can flow freely down the panel flat between the rails; or end closures can close off access to the respective panel flat between the end closures and the rails. One such end closure can be an upper diverter at an up-slope end of the support structure. A lower edge of such upper diverter, e.g. at the panel flat, can slope downwardly across a width of the respective roof panel thereby to direct water laterally across the respective roof panel.

Abstract: A passive collimating skylight system includes an energy-receiving aperture defining a first plane and an energy-delivering aperture defining a second plane that is spaced apart from and non-parallel to the first plane. An energy-directing passageway extends between the energy-receiving aperture and the energy-delivering aperture to redirect radiant energy incident on the energy-collecting aperture over a range of incidence angles to the energy-delivering aperture so that the redirected radiant energy emerges from the energy-delivering aperture over a range of emergence angles that is smaller than the range of incidence angles. The passageway is defined by a wall having a first end that defines the energy-delivering aperture and a second end that defines the energy-collecting aperture, the wall tapering inwardly and having a reflective inner surface along substantially the entire length from the first end to the second end.

Abstract: A light harvesting lens module for collecting an ambient light includes a plurality of annular lenses. The annular lenses are arranged in order from center to outside to form a disc-structure. Each annular lens has a light-input curved surface and a light-output curved surface. The light-input curved surface is in opposition to the center. The light-output curved surface is in opposition to the light-input curved surface, and faces the center. The light is incident on the light-input curved surface, and is refracted and tend to concentrate by the light-input curved surface. Then, the light is emitted from the annular lens, and is refracted to the direction of the center by the light-output curved surface. The ambient light is able to be compressed into a point light by the lens module, so as to increase the concentration ratio and the compression ratio to further get the effective advantage.

Abstract: The disclosed subject matter is a reflector assembly for a skylight curb and the method of installing same through a safety grid from the roof. The purpose of the disclosed subject matter is to improve the optical performance of skylight curbs. The reflector assembly is manufacture from metallized polymer film, trimmed to match the desired interior curb surface where it will be mounted, and equipped with attachment devices to facilitate installation. The reflector assembly is configured by folding or rolling into a compact shape, passing it through an opening in the safety grid, unfolding it, and securing it in its proper position using the integrated attachment devices.

Abstract: A skylight shaft is coated with a highly reflective film to maximize the amount of light transmitted from the top of the skylight to a room below the skylight. Surface irregularities are formed in the shaft or adhesive that holds the film onto the shaft to diffuse the light and thereby prevent the formation of focal “hot spots” in the room below.

Abstract: A cover device kit includes: a plurality of heat insulation components comprising a lightweight construction material such as synthetic resin foam capable of being transported in a disassembled state and then quickly assembled into a box-shaped heat barrier structure having six sides including an opening on an open side for covering an opening in a floor or wall of a building. Four of the plurality of heat insulation components 14, 16, 18, 20 each includes two complimentary connections for uniting with two corresponding adjacent heat insulation components of the plurality of heat insulation components when assembled into four side walls of the box-shaped heat barrier structure 10. The cover 12 serves as a fifth heat insulation component and unites with the four components 14, 16, 18, 20 that constitute side walls of the box-shaped structure and is situated opposite the opening on the open side.

Abstract: Disclosed is a heat exchange conduit formed between pre-fabricated building panels and a daylighting section integral within pre-fabricated, structural panels. The daylighting section has the capability to take ceiling air (or air below free-standing arrays) and either return it to the building during heating months, reject the heat, or shunt it for other uses after being warmed through a dual pane glazing assembly with infrared rejection. During summer days, this allows for dramatic reduction in building cooling demand. Heat exchange surfaces within the conduit are thermally tied to the exterior components of the panels to allow heating by solar insolation or cooling to night sky or air. An advanced insulation system adds to thermal performance and sealed insulation cavities prevent moisture degradation of R-Values. Passage through the heat exchange conduit allows for active whole roof solar collection in spring/fall and night cooling capability during summer night operation.

Abstract: A load support structure supports a load on a metal panel roof. Such load support structure includes multiple closure members including opposing side rails, and optionally end closures. The rails are mounted on roof panel ribs. Cavities can be disposed inwardly of the outer perimeter of the support structure as defined by the closure members, in upper portions of the closure members. Rods may be inserted through slot-shaped openings, into the cavities. Cross-section dimensions of the rods are less than the widths of the cavity openings. Either the rods are compressed, or the cavity openings are expanded, or both, so as to enable manually inserting the rods into the cavities. Elongate thermal breaks may be installed at and adjacent the cavities, to assist in controlling thermal conduction through the closure members, between the outside environment and the enclosed space above the roof opening.

Abstract: A load support structure supports a load on a metal panel roof, such that substantially all of the load is conveyed through rails, which are mounted on roof panel ribs. Lateral closure members extend about, and define, the load support structure. Cavities are provided in the lateral closure members. Thermal breaks extend upwardly from the roof opening, through the tops of the closure members. Such thermal breaks are provided by a combination of thermal product in the closure member cavities and by strategic placement of edge portions of underlying roof insulation.

Abstract: A portable modular building structure that includes a plurality of sections assembled adjacent one another. The sections include molded fiberboard panels, that optionally include interior plenums. In an embodiment, each panel has an upwardly curving profile, and mirror-image sections are attached to one another via a fastener, that may include tape or other mechanical fastener. The sections are positioned end to end, with the number of sections determining the overall length of the structure. An optional end section of the structure may include wedge shaped sections positioned end to end, forming a curved end.

Abstract: The invention provides a system for installing a roof penetrating structure to a metal roof, the system comprising: a) a rail and closure structure adapted to be supported by adjacent rib elevations of said roof; b) a skylight adapted to be supported on the rail and closure structure; and c) a support member for sealing a cut away portion of the rib structure to divert water away from the rail and closure structure.

Abstract: The window system has a substantially rectangular frame structure having four corner sections (1b) and being adapted to be installed in a roof structure and a bracket arrangement comprising a set of bracket units (6b), each bracket unit including a base element (10b) mounted at each corner section of the frame structure. Each bracket unit furthermore comprises at least one supplemental element (20b,40b) adapted to be detachably connected to said base element. One supplemental element comprises a leg element (20b) adapted to be detachably connected to the base element, preferably rotatably and detachably connected with the base element.

Abstract: The invention provides a system for installing a roof penetrating structure to a metal roof, the system comprising: a) a rail and closure structure adapted to be supported by adjacent rib elevations of said roof; b) a skylight adapted to be supported on the rail and closure structure; and c) a support member for sealing a cut away portion of the rib structure to divert water away from the rail and closure structure.

Abstract: An improved tubular daylighting system comprises a plurality of tubular shaft sections connected to a skylight lens for transmitting light through the shaft sections to the interior of a building. Adjoining top and bottom shaft sections have different diameters to enable one to be inserted into the other, the top shaft section having a plurality of tabs, the bottom section having a plurality of slots which register with the tabs of the top shaft section, such that selectively bending the tabs outwardly or inwardly from the shaft wall of the top shaft section through the slots of the bottom shaft section interconnects the top and bottom shaft sections in coaxial alignment. In one embodiment an inverted dome diffuser is mounted below the skylight lens atop the shaft sections to diffuse light entering the shaft sections.

Abstract: A rail mounting system for mounting skylights and the like directly to rib elevations of a raised rib panel roofing system has a side rail for each side of a skylight or run of skylights that mount to the metal panel roof's rib elevations. Each side rail includes a vertical riser wall, an upper flange structure extending from the riser wall to provide a top bearing surface for one side of a skylight or run of skylights, and bottom shoulder structure extending from the raiser portion, which is adapted for attachment to a rib elevation of a raised rib panel roofing system. The rib elevations on which the side rails of the rail mounting system are attached provide structural support for the skylight or run of skylights supported on the side rails for substantially the entire length of the skylights or run of skylights.

Abstract: Disclosed is a housing and mounting assembly for a skylight module, and particularly for a skylight module that incorporates an energy management system. The housing and mounting assembly is configured to efficiently capture both direct solar and diffuse ambient light, and deliver light that is diffuse to the space below the skylight that provides even illumination and no unpleasant glare spots. The walls of the skylight module may be formed of multi-wall polycarbonate panels configured to redirect both the upward- and downward-shining light through the aperture into the space below. Moreover, the curb of the assembly may include a flexible flashing strip provided with a reflective coating configured to reflect sunlight upward through the walls of the assembly and into the skylight module, such that the advantages of collecting and using such reflected light can be achieved even in a retrofit installation on a non-reflective roofing surface.

Abstract: A surround for a rectangular skylight assembly is provided. Each side of the rectangular surround is characterized as having an obtuse-angled profile having an angle of between greater than 90 degrees and about 100 degrees, the profile including a curb-abutting surface and a roof abutting surface. The curb-abutting surfaces abut curb members attached to the skylight assembly and include apertures therethrough for receipt of joining elements. The roof abutting surfaces abut a building rooftop and further include apertures therethrough for receipt of joining elements. The roof abutting side of the roof abutting surfaces includes a barrier material attached thereto. The barrier material may be comprised of any suitable impermeable material, such as a polyurethane foam or a thermoplastic elastomer.

Abstract: This invention provides upper diverters which are used on support structures on roofs. Such upper diverter has a lower flange which interfaces with the respective roof panel, and an upstanding wall which extends up from the lower flange. The upper diverter diverts water, flowing down the roof, laterally away from the respective roof panel.

Abstract: A skylight window dormer for installation on a pitched roof or sloped surface. The skylight window dormer is constructed form a plurality of triangular shaped or elliptically curved panels joined to form a dormer type structure that provides panoramic viewing and additional headroom in tightly enclosed interior spaces. The skylight window dormer is installed using a similar method as conventional skylights and is, thus, combining the efficiency of installing a conventional skylight with the benefits of additional space provided by a conventional dormer.

Abstract: An multi-layered roof skylight is provided that allows for natural light to enter through the peak of a gabled roof, while blocking ultraviolet light and offering an optional means to vent hot air and gases from inside the structure. The skylight comprises a first and second polycarbonate base layer attached to a structure's roof, wherein a polycarbonate roof cap is disposed thereabove and over the peak of the roof. The layers are sandwiched together by a line of fasteners on each side of the roof, while a first and second venting layer may further be provided between the base layers and the cap to allow air to vent therethrough. The cap is an angled member or one that has a defined shape incorporating vents in its design. Further provided is a method of installing the vented skylight on a gabled roof.

Abstract: The invention provides an improved skylight assembly having a condensate management mechanism effective to minimize condensation-related damage to adjacent structures and provide an anchor for a snap-fit extension frame that can support an optional glazing layer.

Abstract: A skylight system including a support frame and an apex patch fitting that together support a plurality of glass pieces joined together in a selectable shape. The support frame includes a sill and a setting chair that are arranged to support the base portions of the glass pieces. The apex patch fitting may be of selectable shape and includes an upper and lower member to retain the peaks or corners of the glass therebetween. The apex patch fitting includes one or more positioning keys to align and secure the glass pieces. A method of making the skylights includes the use of an apex retainer tool to maintain the apex patch fitting in a fixed position while placing glass pieces on it. Multiple apex patch fittings can be used for a skylight, including a skylight that is ridge shaped or hipped ridge shape.

Abstract: The invention provides a rail mounting system for attachment to elevated rib structure of a metal panel roof whereby the rib structure underlies and supports the rail mounting system at side rails and correspondingly the rib structure underlies and supports any load being supported by the side rails. First and second side rails can be attached to first and second rib structures, thereby supporting the load from the first and second rib structures. End closures can extend across the space between such first and second side rails at opposing ends of the side rails, thereby closing off the openings between the ends of the side rails and providing a closed support structure extending about the encompassed space and closing off laterally-directed access to the enclosed space.

Abstract: The window system has a substantially rectangular frame structure having four corner sections (1b) and being adapted to be installed in a roof structure and a bracket arrangement comprising a set of bracket units (6b), each bracket unit including a base element (10b) mounted at each corner section of the frame structure. Each bracket unit furthermore comprises at least one supplemental element (20b,40b) adapted to be detachably connected to said base element. One supplemental element comprises a leg element (20b) adapted to be detachably connected to the base element, preferably rotatably and detachably connected with the base element.

Abstract: The invention provides an improved skylight assembly having a condensate management mechanism effective to minimize condensation-related damage to adjacent structures and provide an anchor for a snap-fit extension frame that can support an optional glazing layer.

Abstract: A daylighting system for use in a building including a louver array having a first longitudinal element, and a second longitudinal element spaced therefrom. At least one of the first and second elements has an asymmetrical profile, each of the first and second longitudinal elements has a bottom profile including a parabolic surface, portions of opposing surfaces of the first and second longitudinal elements define a compound parabolic concentrator profile having a non-horizontal centerline that is tilted upwards, and the array prevents line of sight therethrough. A louver for a daylighting system includes (i) a leading edge defined by a leading connecting surface disposal between a parabolic concentrator surface and a flat surface; and (ii) a trailing edge defined by a trailing connecting surface disposed between a lower compound parabolic concentrator profile, and an upper compound parabolic concentrator profile. A method for designing a louver profile is provided.

Abstract: A roof window (1) comprising a frame (2) with a top member (5), a bottom member (6) and two side members (7, 8) defining a frame plane, and a sash (3) having a top member (9), a bottom member (10) and two side members (11, 12) defining a sash plane, the sash (3) carrying a pane (4), the window (1) further comprising in connection with said bottom sash member (10) a bottom sash covering (319), wherein the roof window (1) furthermore comprises an insulating element (303) and preferably also a bottom sash gasket 310 adapted for insulating of the transition between the bottom sash member (10) and the bottom sash covering (319).

Abstract: A rail mounting system is provided for mounting skylights and other structures directly to rib elevations of a metal panel roofing system. The rail mounting system has a side rail for each side of a skylight or run of skylights that mount to the metal panel roof's rib elevations. Each side rail includes a vertical riser wall, an upper flange extending from the riser wall to provide a top bearing surface for one side of a skylight or run of skylights, and a bottom shoulder structure extending from the riser portion which is adapted for attachment to a rib elevation of the roofing system. The rib elevations on which the side rails of the rail mounting system are attached provide structural support for the skylight or run of skylights supported thereon for substantially the entire length of the skylights or run of skylights.

Abstract: A skylight guard for preventing people or objects from falling through a skylight of a roof panel on a roof provides a wire mesh screen and a plurality of hooks securable to the roof. Each hook includes a hook base, a hook wall and a hook flange. Each hook is securable to the roof using one or more roof fasteners. Each roof fastener can be disposed through a fastener hole predefined in the hook base, and each fastener may also extend through the roof panel into a supporting purlin positioned underneath the roof panel.

Abstract: A skylight to be integrated in a covering structure made of insulated sheets comprises at least one top fretted panel (20) extruded in plastic material and at least one bottom alveolar panel (30) extruded in plastic material, firmly integrally joined by interposing a continuous or discontinuous layer, of adhesive material (40), wherein the layer of adhesive material (40) is prearranged on at least one of the top (20) and bottom (30) panels on a surface facing the opposite panel. A method for producing the skylight to be integrated in a covering structure with insulated panels is also part of the invention.

Abstract: This invention provides upper diverters which are used on support structures on roofs. Such upper diverter has a lower flange which interfaces with the respective roof panel, and an upstanding wall which extends up from the lower flange. The upper diverter diverts water, flowing down the roof, laterally away from the respective roof panel.

Abstract: A controller for an energy management system that controls the amount of light allowed into an area is provided. The system comprises a louver assembly and a light sensor contained within a light well. The light sensor is in communication with a controller that manages the position of the louvers in the system and controls the amount of light allowed through the system. The system further comprises thermal sensors in communication with the controller, which allow for management of the louvers' position to maximize energy efficiency.

Abstract: Disclosed is a housing and mounting assembly for a skylight module, and particularly for a skylight module that incorporates an energy management system. The housing and mounting assembly is configured to efficiently capture both direct solar and diffuse ambient light, and deliver light that is diffuse to the space below the skylight that provides even illumination and no unpleasant glare spots. The walls of the skylight module may be formed of multi-wall polycarbonate panels configured to redirect both the upward- and downward-shining light through the aperture into the space below. Moreover, the curb of the assembly may include a flexible flashing strip provided with a reflective coating configured to reflect sunlight upward through the walls of the assembly and into the skylight module, such that the advantages of collecting and using such reflected light can be achieved even in a retrofit installation on a non-reflective roofing surface.

Abstract: A tubular skylight, comprising a tubular body (2) provided with an inner reflecting surface (3), a light collector (4) mounted to a first end of the tubular body (2) and a light diffuser (6) mounted to a second end of said tubular body (2). The skylight further comprises a source of artificial light (9) external to the tubular body (2) to enable it not to interfere with the natural light, and mounted in the vicinity of the diffuser (6). This artificial-light source (9) is preferably defined by a plurality of LEDs positioned around the diffuser (6) itself.

Abstract: A skylight with a light transmission passage bounded by reflective surface. Centrally facing, curved mirror reflective surfaces are positioned on opposite sides of the passage. The curved reflective surfaces have a curvature slope that becomes progressively greater, with respect to a plane that is perpendicular to the axis, as the surfaces progress from the upper end to the lower end of the passage. The curved mirror surfaces are also curved inward at their upper end. Preferably, the curved mirror surfaces are parabolic and most preferably are formed as a compound parabolic concentrator that is mounted in an inverted orientation. The skylight of the invention also has reflective surfaces that are orthogonal to these reflective surfaces. The orthogonal reflective surfaces can alternatively be either formed with the same curvature and orientation or can be planar.

Abstract: A skylight with improved thermal insulation includes a light tube which passes through a roof to bring daylight inside a building. The skylight conserves heat energy by providing a transparent, double paned insulation double glazing unit, which is positioned to divide the light tube into an upper tube and a lower tube. Insulation efficiency is maximized by providing the insulation double glazing unit, as well as an insulating foam collar the insulation unit is surrounded by and anchored to, in the same plane as the insulation in the ceiling of the building. The collar has a shape and thickness to match the span of ceiling or roof thermal insulation.

Abstract: The present application generally relates to techniques and equipment for color correction of natural daylight. More particularly, the present application relates to color correction of daylight entering the interior of a structure to maintain a substantially constant color temperature over a period of time through deployment of an opto-luminescent material in a daylighting device. The color correction through deployment of an opto-luminescent material and/or color filter in a daylighting device preferably maintains high lumen intensity.

Abstract: In the method of installing a window arrangement comprising a number of neighboring windows, a support structure including an upstand is first provided. Each window is provided with a plurality of predefined connection points, and windows are placed next to each other. One window is connected with the other and neighboring window at said predefined connection points.

Abstract: A covering employing a fascia gutter is disclosed. The fascia gutter includes a front member, bottom member, a rear member, a ledge, a guiding groove, a protrusion and a receiving space. The bottom member connects the front member to the rear member. The receiving space is defined by the front member, the bottom member, and the rear member. The ledge is connected to the rear member, and the guiding groove is defined in the ledge. An opening is defined by the ledge and the protrusion.

Abstract: Skylights and roofs having skylights are provided for. The skylights may comprise a pair of elongated struts adapted for mounting vertically on opposing sides of an opening in the roof cover and a translucent panel mounted horizontally across the struts. The translucent panel has upwardly extending sides adapted to be joined to form horizontal seams, and the struts are adapted to support the translucent panel above the roof cover.

Abstract: This invention provides upper diverters which are used on support structures on roofs. Such upper diverter has a lower flange which interfaces with the respective roof panel, and an upstanding wall which extends up from the lower flange. The upper diverter diverts water, flowing down the roof, laterally away from the respective roof panel.

Abstract: A skylight includes at least one glass section supported by an intermediate member. The intermediate member includes a beam supporting the glass section, a cap disposed above the glass section and an insulator disposed between and attaching the beam to the cap. The insulator forms a thermal break to impede heat transfer through the skylight in either direction.

Abstract: A skylight system uses multiple stationary tilted reflectors aimed in different compass directions, including inverted pyramidal or wedge geometry to enhance the light output of a skylight using a conventional horizontal penetration into the building. The reflectors are made of very low cost metallized polymer film, and configured to maximize the useful lumen output of the skylight over the whole day and over the whole year. The skylight system furthermore improves the light distribution under the horizontal penetration by directing more light vertically into the working space beneath the roof penetration rather than horizontally onto walls and into the building occupants' eyes, creating glare and discomfort.

Abstract: A sliding power lift and locking assembly for lifting and locking an object includes a motor, a first drive shaft, a first drive block assembly, a first drive housing, and a link arm. The first drive shaft has a body and a cylindrical axis and is rotationally driven by the motor. The first drive block assembly includes an aperture configured to engage the body of the first drive shaft, a latch dog with a first slot configured to engage a dog catch pin associated with the object, and a slider. A portion of the first drive housing and a portion of the first drive block assembly are provided in a track of the first drive housing, and the track of the first drive housing is configured such that the first drive block assembly is configured to move in a path relative to the first drive housing. The link arm includes a first end and second end.