Cupola Or Skylight Patents (Class 52/200)
-
Patent number: 8661747Abstract: A racking system for photovoltaic solar panels greatly reduces material, weight, labor and system profile as compared to previous mounting systems. Special pedestals are secured to a roof at far larger spacings and fewer number than required in previous systems. The pedestals are configured for efficient and dependable flashing for waterproofing the roof. In assembly the extruded aluminum components are fitted together quickly with efficient and strong connections, with the photovoltaic panels retained in a compact array and fully supported along the length of each panel. The fittings provide for field adjustment of the height of the uprights, helping accommodate uneven roof surfaces, such as flat roofs.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2011Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Inventor: Kristian Eide
-
Publication number: 20140053477Abstract: Improved building-integrated photovoltaic systems according to certain example embodiments may include concentrated photovoltaic skylights or other windows having a cylindrical lens array. The skylight may include an insulated glass unit, which may improve the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). The photovoltaic skylight and lens arrays may be used in combination with strip solar cells. Arrangements that involve lateral displacement tracking systems, or static systems (e.g., that are fixed at one, two, or more predefined positions) are contemplated herein. Such techniques may advantageously help to reduce cost per watt related, in part, to the potentially reduced amount of semiconductor material to be used for such example embodiments. A photovoltaic skylight may permit diffuse daylight to pass through into an interior of a building so as to provide lighting inside the building, while the strip solar cells absorb the direct sunlight and convert it to electricity, providing for SHGC tuning.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 24, 2013Publication date: February 27, 2014Applicant: Guardian Industries Corp.Inventors: Eric Walter AKKASHIAN, Willem DEN BOER
-
Publication number: 20140047784Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2013Publication date: February 20, 2014Applicant: Entech Solar, Inc.Inventors: Mark J. O'Neill, David Gelbaum, Almus J. McDanal, III, Don H. Spears
-
Patent number: 8650833Abstract: A method for installing a roof vent includes the steps of providing a base component having an outer flange having a bottom surface and surrounding a central opening; providing a top cover; mounting the top cover on the base component over the central opening to permit the air to flow through the central opening, but to exclude water from entering the central opening; and welding a riser box on the bottom surface of the base component around the central opening, the riser box being sized and shaped to fit around the curb of the roof. The base component is then mounted onto the curb such that the base component covers the building venting aperture and the riser box fits around the curb.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2013Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Ross Manufacturing, LLCInventor: Barry Ross Polston
-
Publication number: 20140026501Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 29, 2013Publication date: January 30, 2014Applicant: Replex Mirror CompanyInventors: Mark A. Schuetz, Kara A. Shell
-
Publication number: 20140020314Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 25, 2013Publication date: January 23, 2014Inventors: Timothy Pendley, Michael J. McLain
-
Publication number: 20130340362Abstract: An improved skylight system comprises a unitary light transmitting skylight lens having a main lens body, an outwardly projecting horizontal support flange, a surrounding downwardly and outwardly extending skirt panel, and a horizontal lower attachment lip extending from the skirt panel. The attachment lip is held in a channel formed by an upper hold-down flange and a cooperating lower flange of a mounting frame. The lens is fitted over a roof curb and attached thereto by driving fasteners through a vertical attachment collar that depends from the inner edge of the lower flange of the mounting frame into the curb.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2012Publication date: December 26, 2013Inventors: James Robert Blomberg, Kenneth Joseph Mastrogiovanni
-
Publication number: 20130333312Abstract: A dome for a skylight; said dome formed of light transmitting material; at least an internal surface of said dome provided with prismatic structures arranged so as to direct incident light from without said dome to points below a lower periphery of said dome; said prismatic structures formed as adjoining facets of a plurality of curved ridges; each of said curved ridges extending from a first upper end to a second lower end.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2013Publication date: December 19, 2013Inventor: Rodric Lindsay FOOKS
-
Patent number: 8611011Abstract: A system providing consistent and intense sunlight to light-guiding structures for redirecting sunlight to the interior of a building is presented. One aspect of the inventive subject matter includes an illumination system comprising a solar redirector and at least one optical converter. The solar redirector can be configured to extend outward from a wall of a building and to redirect sunlight to exterior sections of the wall below the solar redirector. The optical converter can be configured to mount on at least one of the exterior sections of the wall and to receive the redirected sunlight and distribute the redirected sunlight to an interior of the building.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2012Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Assignee: SunCentral, Inc.Inventor: Lorne Whitehead
-
Patent number: 8601757Abstract: Some embodiments provide a fenestration apparatus including at least one glazing pane capable of being installed in an opening of a building envelope and a tessellated structure disposed adjacent to the at least one glazing pane. The tessellated structure can include at least one partition having a first face and a second face. The at least one partition can define a plurality of spatially separated cells within a substantially contiguous region of the opening. Each of the plurality of spatially separated cells can have a cell width and a cell depth. Each of the plurality of spatially separated cells can be at least partially surrounded by the first face of the at least one partition, the second face of the at least one partition, or a combination of the first face and the second face of the at least one partition.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2010Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Assignee: Solatube International, Inc.Inventors: Paul August Jaster, Keith Robert Kopitzke, David James Wilson, David Windsor Rillie
-
Publication number: 20130318892Abstract: An insulating glass unit may include at least three panes of transparent material and at least two spacers positioned between different panes of the unit. For example, a first spacer may hold a first pane of transparent material a first separation distance from a second pane of transparent material and a second spacer may hold the second pane of transparent material a second separation distance from a third pane of transparent material. In some examples, the insulating glass unit is configured so that the first separation distance is greater than the second separation distance. In such examples, the insulating glass unit may have a comparatively larger first between-pane space and a comparatively smaller second between-pane space. In some applications, the insulating glass unit may exhibit thermal and sound insulating properties approximately equal to a triple-pane insulating glass unit while having size characteristics approximately equal to a double-pane insulating glass unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2012Publication date: December 5, 2013Applicant: CARDINAL IG COMPANYInventors: Robert C. Grommesh, Benjamin James Zurn, Richard Alan Palmer
-
Patent number: 8590211Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2012Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Inventor: Mike Adams
-
Patent number: 8567136Abstract: A rail mounting system is provided for mounting and supporting skylights and/or other structures to rib elevations of a metal panel roofing system. The rail mounting system includes first and second side rails which can be mounted to the rib elevations of the metal panel roof. Each side rail includes a riser, an upper flange extending from the riser, and a bottom shoulder structure extending from the riser. The bottom shoulder structure can be mounted to a rib elevation of the roofing system. The upper flange provides a top bearing surface for supporting one side of a skylight, or run of skylights, or other structures, which are supported from the roof by the rail mounting system. The rib elevations to which the side rails are mounted provide structural support for the skylight or skylights supported thereon for substantially the entire length of the skylight or skylights or other supported structure.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2013Date of Patent: October 29, 2013Assignee: T&M Inventions, LLCInventors: Timothy Pendley, Michael J. McLain
-
Patent number: 8561364Abstract: This invention provides support structures on roofs. Such support structure can be used to support a roof load, or a closure structure which doses an aperture in the roof, thus to provide access to the interior of a building through an aperture in the roof. The support structure can support a skylight to provide natural day-lighting, or a smoke vent, or a variety of other loads optionally relating to matter or energy communication between the inside and outside of the building. The support structure includes rails adapted to be supported by adjacent rib elevations on opposite sides of a flat of a roof panel, elevated above the water line of the panel flat. Where the support structure surrounds an aperture, a diverter seals a cut away portion of the rib structure and diverts water through the rib structure and laterally away from the rail and closure structure.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2013Date of Patent: October 22, 2013Assignee: T&M Inventions, LLCInventors: Timothy Pendley, Michael J. McLain
-
Patent number: 8555571Abstract: A skylight with displacement absorber and interlocking telescoping tubes is provided. The displacement absorber may be expandable, compressible, and bendable. The displacement absorber may absorb thermal expansion and contraction displacement between the skylight assembly relative to the building in which it is installed, as well as mechanical compression displacement from forces upon the building roof. The interlocking telescoping tubes may provide for telescopic adjustment of the length of the tube assembly. Also provided is a collar for securement to the building roof, the collar optionally including a condensation collection gutter. The skylight may also include a top elbow, adjustable for angular orientation of the light tubes depending from it. A lower adaptor box is also provided, for adapting from the cross-sectional geometry of the displacement absorber to desired cross-sectional geometries of interior ceiling diffusers.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2004Date of Patent: October 15, 2013Assignee: VKR Holding A/SInventors: Samuel H. Darmer, Jeffrey J. Ronan
-
Patent number: 8555555Abstract: An automatic retractable hatch guard provides enhanced safety and security to hatch openings and comprises retractable assistive handrails and a retractable access step that retracts to fit within a hatch opening and beneath a hatch cover and automatically extends upwards and beyond the hatch opening.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2011Date of Patent: October 15, 2013Inventor: Michael Cardwell
-
Patent number: 8539734Abstract: A roof truss compatible for solar energy panels, and a method for installing the roof trusses, incorporates a non-structural top chord that may have a removable portion removed and replaced by a solar assembly. The truss is structurally designed to support the solar assembly without the presence of the non-structural top chord. A desired length of the non-structural top chord may be omitted or removed during manufacture of the truss, or may be removed at a future time for installation of solar panel assemblies. A solar assembly for inserting into the solar roof truss may include a panel enclosure which has a channel for holding a solar panel, where the panel is installed approximately flush with the roof line. The panel enclosure may have an air space underneath the solar panel, to allow for cooling air flow and water drainage.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2013Date of Patent: September 24, 2013Assignee: Eco Solar Generation LLCInventor: Robert E. Heisler
-
Publication number: 20130239489Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 14, 2013Publication date: September 19, 2013Inventors: Timothy Pendley, Michael J. McLain
-
Publication number: 20130188261Abstract: A skylight sunlight redirector is provided with ridges, grooves, and/or prisms that control light transmitted through the redirector as incident sunlight angle changes throughout the day.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 20, 2012Publication date: July 25, 2013Applicant: VKR Holdings A/SInventor: Bruce David Mosher
-
Patent number: 8479461Abstract: A system for lighting an interior of a building according to one example embodiment includes a curb positioned on an exterior of the building for receiving natural light. A light duct is positioned within the curb having a reflective inner surface for transferring the natural light. A light fixture is connected to an outlet of the light duct such that both natural light and artificial light are emitted from the light fixture to the building interior. A photo sensor is positioned in the building interior to sense an illumination level therein. A controller in communication with the photo sensor and the light fixture is programmed to adjust the amount of light emitted by a dimmable light source in the light fixture in response to fluctuation in the illumination level sensed in the building interior in order to maintain a desired illumination level.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2011Date of Patent: July 9, 2013Assignee: Nine 24, Inc.Inventors: Charles E. Lanham, John N. McCall, Kenneth R. Carver
-
Publication number: 20130167459Abstract: A rail mounting system is provided for mounting and supporting skylights and/or other structures to rib elevations of a metal panel roofing system. The rail mounting system includes first and second side rails which can be mounted to the rib elevations of the metal panel roof. Each side rail includes a riser, an upper flange extending from the riser, and a bottom shoulder structure extending from the riser. The bottom shoulder structure can be mounted to a rib elevation of the roofing system. The upper flange provides a top bearing surface for supporting one side of a skylight, or run of skylights, or other structures, which are supported from the roof by the rail mounting system. The rib elevations to which the side rails are mounted provide structural support for the skylight or skylights supported thereon for substantially the entire length of the skylight or skylights or other supported structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2013Publication date: July 4, 2013Inventors: Timothy Pendley, Michael J. McLain
-
Patent number: 8468747Abstract: An actuator for opening and closing a closure including a motor, a sprocket rotated by the motor, and a chain driven by the sprocket and having a first end connected to the closure and a second end positioned within a casing. The actuator also includes a support mounted so as to reciprocally movable relative to the sprocket and having a guide through which a portion of the chain is movable so that the movement of the support is due to the chain being driven by the sprocket.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2007Date of Patent: June 25, 2013Assignee: Somfy SASInventors: Marco Mingardi, Eric Lagarde
-
Patent number: 8453394Abstract: A solar cell module securing structure includes a solar cell module, a first securing member that supports the solar cell module, a second securing member that includes an installation connecting portion having an installing portion on which the first securing member is installed, an inclined connecting portion extending from the installation connecting portion, and an abutting portion that is bent from the inclined connecting portion so as to extend along a structural surface of a roof structural member, and spacer members which are laminated between the first securing member and the second securing member at multiple stages. Further, a long hole portion having a long hole shape, which penetrates through the installing surface, is formed on the installing portion of the installation connecting portion, thereby making fine adjustment of a securing position of the first securing member with respect to the second securing member.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2012Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: Yanegijutsukenkyujo Co., Ltd.Inventor: Shuichi Kobayashi
-
Patent number: 8448393Abstract: A large-area skylight system adapted to be located within a field of roofing sheets. A cross member stiffened at two extremities is secured perpendicularly across a curb. A base frame is configured to rest over the curb. A cap frame is disposed over the base frame. A glazing material is then adapted to be secured between the base frame and the cap frame over the cross member along an entire length of the base frame and the cap frame to form an entire length and width of the skylight as a single panel. To ease installation, a downward leg forms a fulcrum at a contact point between the base frame and the cap frame, and to help exhaust water from the system, a dam is disposed within the base frame uphill from each joint, and a weep hole is defined within the base frame uphill of the dam.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2011Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Assignee: Extech/Exterior Technologies, Inc.Inventors: William P. Voegele, Jr., Kevin P. Smith
-
Patent number: 8443555Abstract: A roofing assembly includes a panel configured to define a major surface, a first end, and a second end opposite the first end; and a frame including a first transverse profile attached to the first end of the panel, and a second transverse profile attached to the second end of the panel. A force-applicator is located between the first transverse profile and the second transverse profile. The force-applicator is configured to apply a force between the first transverse profile and the second transverse profile, thereby applying a tension force to the panel. The force-applicator defines a longitudinal axis displaced from the major surface of the panel, the force-applicator including two parts capable of being moved, one with respect to the other, connected to one another by a sliding connection controlled by a spring.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2012Date of Patent: May 21, 2013Assignee: ABRISUDInventor: Charles Chapus
-
Publication number: 20130118100Abstract: The present invention provides a window frame design that is adapted to receive at least two light-panels. The window frame comprises a stepped frame section that includes a lower step surface and an upper step surface. The lower step surface is adapted to receive a first light-panel so that a section of the first light-panel lies flush against the lower step surface. Similarly, the upper step surface is adapted to receive a second light-panel so that the second light-panel lies flush against the upper step surface. The window frame design of the invention can be either incorporated into a skylight frame that may be attached to a curb unit on a roof or it may be an integral part of a skylight frame-curb assembly that also contains a curb section. In another embodiment of the invention, a window frame design which directly incorporates one or more light-panels during molding is provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 11, 2012Publication date: May 16, 2013Applicant: V-TECH PATENTS, L.L.C.Inventor: V-TECH PATENTS, L.L.C.
-
Patent number: 8438800Abstract: This invention provides support structures on roofs. Such support structure can be used to support a roof load, or a closure structure which closes an aperture in the roof, thus to provide access to the interior of a building through an aperture in the roof. The support structure can support a skylight to provide natural day-lighting, or a smoke vent, or a variety of other loads optionally relating to matter or energy communication between the inside and outside of the building. The support structure includes rails adapted to be supported by adjacent rib elevations on opposite sides of a flat of a roof panel, elevated above the water line of the panel flat. Where the support structure surrounds an aperture, a diverter seals a cut away portion of the rib structure and diverts water through the rib structure and laterally away from the rail and closure structure.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2011Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: T&M Inventions, LLCInventors: Michael J. McLain, Timothy Pendley
-
Patent number: 8438799Abstract: This invention provides support structures on roofs. Such support structure can be used to support a roof load, or a closure structure which closes an aperture in the roof, thus to provide access to the interior of a building through an aperture in the roof. The support structure can support a skylight to provide natural day-lighting, or a smoke vent, or a variety of other loads optionally relating to matter or energy communication between the inside and outside of the building. The support structure includes rails adapted to be supported by adjacent rib elevations on opposite sides of a flat of a roof panel, elevated above the water line of the panel flat. Where the support structure surrounds an aperture, a diverter seals a cut away portion of the rib structure and diverts water through the rib structure and laterally away from the rail and closure structure.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2011Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: T&M Inventions, LLCInventors: Michael J. McLain, Timothy Pendley
-
Patent number: 8438801Abstract: Roof load supports support e.g. skylights and/or smoke vents, optionally including two or more closures in end-to-end relationship, from ribs of a metal roof. Where skylights are end-to-end over an aperture, mating strips support the skylights between upper and lower ends of the support structure. Supports of the invention are mounted above the water line whereby the number of water leaks about the mounting structure is greatly reduced. Water leakage is further reduced by re-designing the upper diverter and the lower closure, and providing for a second installation step. Condensation is further reduced by lifting the insulation inside the building to cover the sides of the closure support structure and providing a no-fastener securement of the insulation at an upper location in the closure support structure, and by providing thermally insulating materials as barriers to penetrating portions of fasteners, penetrating from outside the climate controlled building envelope.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2011Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: T&M Inventions, LLCInventors: Michael J. McLain, Timothy Pendley
-
Patent number: 8438798Abstract: The invention provides an environment-accessing structure for providing environmental access to the interior of a building through an aperture in the roof. The environment-accessing structure can provide natural day-lighting by use of a skylight lens as the closure member, or a smoke vent which can be opened and closed. Such smoke vent can be transparent or translucent to natural sunlight, or can be opaque. Such environment-accessing structure is installed in an aperture in a metal roof. The system limits opportunity for water leakage from the outside environment. The environment-accessing structure includes a rail and closure structure adapted to be supported by adjacent rib elevations of adjacent roof panels, a closure panel adapted to be supported on the rail and closure structure, and a diverter which seals a cut away portion of the rib structure and diverts water laterally away from the rail and closure structure.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2011Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: T&M Inventions, LLCInventors: Michael J. McLain, Timothy Pendley
-
Patent number: 8434276Abstract: The invention describes extruded member systems to which a photovoltaic device is secured to an architectural surface.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2012Date of Patent: May 7, 2013Assignee: Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics CorporationInventors: Katherine M. Sahlin, Marcel Dery, Michael P. Cushman
-
Publication number: 20130086853Abstract: A skylight with thermal insulation has an input part with light collector and an upper tube for roof passage. A lower tube with a diffuser is included and the roof passage contains an insulation double glazing unit which fixed directly into a collar made of foam insulation. It is especially advantageous if the insulation double glazing unit is fixed in the collar made of a foam insulation material including at least one plastic anchoring holder that embraces the double glazing unit perimeter and extends, with at least some of its parts, above and below the insulation double glazing unit and projects laterally toward the perimeter of the collar made of the foam insulation material.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 30, 2011Publication date: April 11, 2013Applicant: LIGHTWAY S.R.O.Inventors: Jakub BrandalÃk, Radek Soukup
-
Patent number: 8397468Abstract: A light-transmitting roof panel assembly, having the same shape as adjoining metal roof panels in a standing seam metal roof, includes an outer transparent panel made of a polymeric material and an inner reinforcing panel made of perforated metal. The inner and outer panels nest together and lie flush with the roof. Crimpable side corrugation pieces are attached to the reinforcing panel so that the assembly can be connected to neighboring roof panels by seaming.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2008Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: BlueScope Steel North America CorporationInventor: Richard R. McClure
-
Patent number: 8397447Abstract: A roof truss compatible for solar energy panels, and a method for installing the roof trusses, incorporates a non-structural top chord that may have a removable portion removed and replaced by a solar assembly. The truss is structurally designed to support the solar assembly without the presence of the non-structural top chord. A desired length of the non-structural top chord may be omitted or removed during manufacture of the truss, or may be removed at a future time for installation of solar panel assemblies. A solar assembly for inserting into the solar roof truss may include a panel enclosure which has a channel for holding a solar panel, where the panel is installed approximately flush with the roof line. The panel enclosure may have an air space underneath the solar panel, to allow for cooling air flow and water drainage.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2010Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Eco Solar Generation LLCInventor: Robert E. Heisler
-
Patent number: 8393120Abstract: The present invention provides a skylight frame design that is adapted to receive at least two panels of glass. The skylight frame comprises a stepped frame section that includes a lower step surface and an upper step surface. The lower step surface is adapted to receive a first glass panel so that a section of the first glass panel lies flush against the lower step surface. Similarly, the upper step surface is adapted to receive a second glass panel so that the second glass panel lies flush against the upper step surface. The skylight frame design of the invention is either incorporated into a skylight frame that may be attached to a curb unit on a roof or it may be an integral part of a skylight frame-curb assembly that also contains a curb section.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2012Date of Patent: March 12, 2013Assignee: V-Tech Patents, L.L.C.Inventors: Arthur J. Valentz, John E. Nemazi, James W. Proscia
-
Patent number: 8381459Abstract: A roof ventilator mount for mounting a roof ventilator onto a gable-type roof (21), the roof ventilator including a roof ventilator base (10) defining a cupola mounting portion (25) for mounting a cupola (12) thereto, the roof ventilator mount comprising: a first mounting component (26), the first mounting component (26) including a first mounting plate (48) mountable to the roof (21); a second mounting component (26), the second mounting component (26) including a second mounting plate (48) mountable to the roof (21); the first and second mounting components (26) being mountable to the roof ventilator base (10) with proximal edges (47) thereof located substantially adjacent to each other and distal edges (49) thereof located spaced apart from each other; the first and second mounting plates (48) being each provided with a breakable segment (66) extending from the proximal edge (47), the breakable segment (66) being breakable from the remainder of the mounting plate (48) along a predetermined break line locatType: GrantFiled: December 19, 2008Date of Patent: February 26, 2013Inventors: Serge Ramsay, Linda Ramsay
-
Patent number: 8381490Abstract: A skylight or other like panel comprising a dual glazed framing system is provided. The dual glazed framing system includes opposing glazing panels, a frame with supporting ledges, and translucent insulating particulate material is encapsulated in a insulating cavity defined by the frame and the opposing panes. A movable fill guide is provided and allows for the compression of the translucent insulating particulate material. A method of creating a dual glazed framing system filled with translucent insulating particulate material is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2010Date of Patent: February 26, 2013Inventors: Mark A. Back, J. Michael Riley, John E. Welsh
-
Patent number: 8371078Abstract: In some embodiments, a sunlight collection system has an upper portion with prismatic elements and a lower cylindrical portion extending from the periphery of the upper portion down to terminate in an open lower end through which light can pass. In certain embodiments, a prism ring is positioned within the cylindrical portion and is configured to refract sunlight entering the sunlight collection system.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2012Date of Patent: February 12, 2013Assignee: Solatube InternationalInventor: Paul Jaster
-
Publication number: 20130031855Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 9, 2012Publication date: February 7, 2013Applicant: ABL IP HOLDING, LLCInventor: ABL IP Holding, LLC
-
Publication number: 20120297699Abstract: A dwelling assembly that has a continuous sidewall and an opening for a door and a window. A roof assembly is provided with first and second roofs that are spaced apart such that the outer roof acts as a heat shield for the inner roof to ensure the interior of the dwelling is a minimum temperature. In addition, ballast boxes are utilized in order to provide additional weight to the dwelling and a planting area in association with the dwelling assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 9, 2011Publication date: November 29, 2012Applicant: SUKUP MANUFACTURING COMPANYInventors: Brett A. Nelson, Eugene G. Sukup, Steve E. Sukup, Bradley A. Poppen, Charles E. Sukup
-
Patent number: 8316611Abstract: A portable skylight replacement safety assembly that includes a first and second support frames releasably connected to each other and having a plurality of support handles and support members which extend substantially perpendicularly from the first support frame for supporting the first support frame on and/or over the skylight on a working surface at a predetermined distance.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2012Date of Patent: November 27, 2012Inventors: J. Nigel Ellis, John Witty
-
Publication number: 20120279142Abstract: Prefabricated foldable building units are described that have one or more of the following advantages. They are more easily prefabricated, more easily transported to building sites without requiring special permits, unloadable and unfoldable at the building sites without using cranes (they can be unloaded using ground-level lifting rigs and unfolded using, for example, a cable mechanism), allow precise and fast completion at the building site, and allow significant reduction in the scope of work to be completed on-site, where costs and scheduling are far less manageable. Further, methods for unloading and unfolding foldable building units are described that obviate the need for one or more cranes that can be expensive and project-complicating, thereby opening up a significant percentage of building sites for placement of prefabricated foldable building units.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2010Publication date: November 8, 2012Inventor: Dennis R. Michaud
-
Publication number: 20120279149Abstract: A solar assembly system is provided. The system includes: a building assembly having a window and a panel. The panel is configured operate in a closed or an open position at the interior of the building interior. Further, the panel may extend beyond the window such that an airtight seals forms between the panel and the window.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2012Publication date: November 8, 2012Inventor: Sebastian George Quinn
-
Publication number: 20120272593Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 29, 2011Publication date: November 1, 2012Inventors: Mark J. O'Neill, David Gelbaum, Almus J. McDanal, III, Don H. Spears
-
Patent number: 8291674Abstract: The present invention provides a window frame design that is adapted to receive at least two light-panels. The window frame comprises a stepped frame section that includes a lower step surface and an upper step surface. The lower step surface is adapted to receive a first light-panel so that a section of the first light-panel lies flush against the lower step surface. Similarly, the upper step surface is adapted to receive a second light-panel so that the second light-panel lies flush against the upper step surface. The window frame design of the invention can be either incorporated into a skylight frame that may be attached to a curb unit on a roof or it may be an integral part of a skylight frame-curb assembly that also contains a curb section. In another embodiment of the invention, a window frame design which directly incorporates one or more light-panels during molding is provided.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2010Date of Patent: October 23, 2012Assignee: V-Tech Patents, L.L.C.Inventors: Arthur J. Valentz, John E. Nemazi, James W. Proscia
-
Patent number: 8292706Abstract: The roof light system is composed by a roof unit (10), a light conduit (70) and a diffuser unit (80). A ventilation device has a ventilation tube (60) is separate and detached from the light conduit (70). The first end (60a) of the ventilation tube is connected with the roof unit (10) and the second end (60b) is positioned at a distance from the diffuser unit (80). The ventilation device may additionally have a branch tube (160).Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2005Date of Patent: October 23, 2012Assignee: VKR Holding A/SInventors: Brent Møller, Per Jacobsen, Niels A. Larsen, James Eric Brinton, Leonard Kenneth Moody, Jr.
-
Publication number: 20120255245Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2012Publication date: October 11, 2012Inventor: Christopher J. STONE
-
Publication number: 20120255246Abstract: In some embodiments, a sunlight collection system has an upper portion with prismatic elements and a lower cylindrical portion extending from the periphery of the upper portion down to terminate in an open lower end through which light can pass. In certain embodiments, a prism ring is positioned within the cylindrical portion and is configured to refract sunlight entering the sunlight collection system.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2012Publication date: October 11, 2012Inventor: Paul Jaster
-
Publication number: 20120240491Abstract: A large-area skylight system adapted to be located within a field of roofing sheets. A cross member stiffened at two extremities is secured perpendicularly across a curb. A base frame is configured to rest over the curb. A cap frame is disposed over the base frame. A glazing material is then adapted to be secured between the base frame and the cap frame over the cross member along an entire length of the base frame and the cap frame to form an entire length and width of the skylight as a single panel. To ease installation, a downward leg forms a fulcrum at a contact point between the base frame and the cap frame, and to help exhaust water from the system, a dam is disposed within the base frame uphill from each joint, and a weep hole is defined within the base frame uphill of the dam.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 2, 2011Publication date: September 27, 2012Inventors: William P. Voegele, JR., Kevin P. Smith
-
Patent number: 8272175Abstract: The secure modular shelter apparatus can be used to shelter those at bus stops, on campuses, using ATM's, waiting for trains, making calls, smoking, and for a host of other uses. Importantly, the apparatus is self-contained and can be placed as chosen, by a forklift for example, and either connected to existing power as an alternative energy source or used as is while providing its own power. Security may be guaranteed by entry only allowed by card or other secure personal identification means known in the art. Radiant assisted heating and cooling are provided. Information readout is provided by a lighted panel that may also feature scrolling schedule lights. A panic button and receiver/transmitter are also provided so that emergency communication with professionals is possible when needed. Audio and auxiliary lighting are provided for those with sight and hearing hardships. Automatic interior climate controls provide for thermostatically controlled comfort.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2010Date of Patent: September 25, 2012Inventors: Darlene Williams-Prades, Michael A. Martin