Abstract: Telescoping hurricane shutters protect a window during a storm but eliminate the need for pre-sized storm shutters. The interchangeable storm shutters are made up of individual panels slidably connected to one another. The panels may be extended to cover an exposed area of window. The storm shutters may be interlocked together in order to fit a particular window and may be held in place by brackets, quick tapping screws, or threaded rods and nuts that allow for quick installation and removal.

Abstract: A plastic shutter level is formed by a cap assembly which fits into the bottom of a vertical stile of the shutter. The cap assembly includes a cap body and an adjustable member which threads into the cap body. The adjustable member has a cam shaped bottom face which cams over the shutter frame to provide an automatic leveling adjustment of the shutter when in its closed position.

Abstract: The present invention relates to solid panel window shutters having both high strength and structural stability. More particularly, an exterior window shutter made of a solid panel of polyvinyl chloride with at least one support member affixed in the panel. The shutter includes a solid panel having front and back surfaces and side edges, support member, impact resistant member and slats having a channel to receive the support member; wherein the support member is embedded between the panel and the slats. Also contemplated by this invention are: a method to manufacture high strength and structurally stable exterior window shutters and a method to protect windows from extreme weather.

Abstract: A blast resistant window system includes a reinforced window pane defining an in-side and an out-side and being supported by a window framework for mounting at an opening in a wall. The window system further includes at least one pane-engaging member transversally extending adjacent an in-side surface of the window pane and secured at respective ends thereof to opposite framework elements or to opposite wall portions. Each of the pane-engaging member is fitted with at least one energy dispensing device for converting axial force within the pane-engaging member into mechanical work.

Abstract: A blast resistant window system comprising a reinforced window pane defining an in-side and an out-side and being supported by a window framework for mounting at an opening in a wall. The window system further comprises at least one pane-engaging member transversally extending adjacent an in-side surface of the window pane and secured at respective ends thereof to opposite construction elements. Each of the pane-engaging member is fitted with at least one energy dispensing device for converting axial force within the pane-engaging member into mechanical work.

Abstract: A process of retrofitting an existing window that uses a gasket to secure a sacrificial member and a glazing. The sacrificial member forms a replaceable protective barrier between the glazing and occupants of a vehicle such as a bus. The gasket is traditionally used to secure the sacrificial member and the glazing to the window. Over time, after several removal and re-installations during replacement of the sacrificial member or the glazing, the gasket typically becomes unfit for subsequent use. The gasket is replaced with a rigid retainer member that fits into an existing recess that receives the gasket. The retainer member secures the sacrificial member and the glazing to the window so as to permit repeated changes of the sacrificial member without removal of the retainer member.

Abstract: A compressible structure for temporarily protecting a glass pane of a window structure includes a shaping member for removable securement on the window structure and defining a cavity over the glass pane and a layer of solidified compressible material in said cavity providing protection for the glass pane. A window protection system includes a shaping member and a supply system for supplying a compressible material in fluidic form to a cavity of the shaping member, wherein the fluidic compressible material sets to form a layer of solidified compressible material. A protected window structure comprises a window structure and a panel of solidified compressible foam material disposed over at least a portion of one or more glass panes of the window structure.

Abstract: A reinforced window system for mounting within an opening in a wall, the window system comprising a frame fixable to the opening; said frame comprising an outside support panel and a plurality of fixable fixing members distributed on an inside of the frame; a reinforced window pane fixedly supported within a removable frame; said removable frame comprising a plurality of support members articulated to the support frame and adapted for engagement by the corresponding fixing members; and locking members for positioning and fixing the removable frame within the frame.

Abstract: Counter pressure methods and apparatus for protecting roofs are described, which ensure that indoor air pressure remains negative, that is lower than ambient outdoor pressure during severe windstorms, thus counteracting and thereby reducing the uplift force on the roof surface of a building. In accordance with different embodiments of the invention, one-way valves are provided in openings in the building envelope, such as window openings, or installed over the vents into the roof space so that indoor air flows freely out of the building to a lee zone through the one-way valves while the high air pressure on the windward sides can cause little inward flow because the one-way valves quickly blow closed under wind pressure. According to a further embodiment a Venturi-tube is mounted vertically through or alongside the roof so that its open top forms its own low pressure suction area to draw air from either or both the indoors or the roof space to the same effect.

Abstract: Retrofit connectors that secure together the outside sheathing and underlying structural members of wood-frame or masonry houses, preventing damage when subjected to lateral stresses from a hurricane, or transverse loads from an earthquake. The connectors have special bushings and bearing surfaces that tie the outside sheathing and underlying structural members together, but allow deflection, and transfer of energy to other structural members. Different embodiments of the connectors allow them to adapt to most wood-frame and masonry homes, and to most roof pitches.

Abstract: A containment apparatus for removal of a window/window frame from within the wall of a building. The containment apparatus has a rigid member with a peripheral gasket. An adjustable supporting member, which is connected to the rigid member, extends angularly to the ceiling above the rigid member. The bottom end of the rigid member is braced to secure the rigid member in place.

Abstract: A removable window safety barrier includes two vertical frame members, two horizontal frame members, and additional horizontal and vertical members attached to the horizontal and vertical frame members. The barrier includes at each end of the vertical frame members flanges having holes of suitable size and shape to engage and be supported by pins affixed to the sides of a window with two such pins pointing upwardly from the bottom of the window, and two such pins facing downwardly from the top of the window.

Abstract: A cover construction (10) for windows, including a generally rectangular housing member (20) which is affixed to, and projects outwardly from, a window frame (101) via a mounting flange (26) and further includes an angled roof panel (21), a floor panel (25), a pair of opposed side panels (22), (23) and a generally open front panel (24). The cover construction (10) also includes a pair of lower assemblies (30), (30′) operatively associated with the front panel (24) as well as a vertical screen member (40) rearwardly offset from the lower assemblies (30), (30′) and a horizontal screen member (41) associated with the floor panel (25) for allowing fresh air to enter through the window (100) even when the lower assemblies (30), (30′) are in their closed position.

Abstract: A self-adhesive laminate for sealing window frames includes an aluminum layer having a first side and a second side, a polyester layer adhered to the first side of the aluminum layer, an adhesive layer adhered to the second side of the aluminum layer, and a release paper overlying the adhesive remote from the aluminum layer. This laminate reduces or eliminates the overheating problems common in prior art tapes.

Abstract: A system for covering fasteners that are provided at an exterior building wall for mounting storm panels. The system includes cover plates that are located adjacent to the fasteners. The cover plates are mounted so as to be pivotable about one side of a mounting track. This permits the cover plates to pivot between a closed (use) position for covering the track and fasteners, and an open (non-use) position for permitting installation of storm panels. The cover plates can be painted in a variety of colors to match the building wall or the shutters, which permits the covers to blend into the exterior finish of the building. Thus, when the storm panels are removed, the present system conveniently covers the unattractive and conspicuous fasteners in an attractive manner.

Abstract: A building closure for temporarily closing a bare opening in a wall in a building under construction or renovation. The building closure includes a closure frame made up of a number of bars and defining an opening mainly congruent with the wall opening, a plastic sheeting fastened on the closure frame and spanning its opening, and fastening members for fastening the closure frame to one side of the wall in an area around the wall opening. Each of the bars of the closure frame is V-shaped, has a first part mainly at right angles to the plane of the window and defining the closure frame opening, and a second part mainly at right angles to the first part and defining the periphery of the closure frame. The closure according to the invention can cover a bare wall opening in a building under construction or renovation in a less expensive, easier and tighter manner than known so far, with the two parts of the closure frame closing tightly maintained around the edge of the wall opening.

Abstract: A containment apparatus for removal of a window/window frame from within the wall of a building. The containment apparatus has a rigid member with a peripheral gasket. An adjustable supporting member, which is connected to the rigid member, extends angularly to the ceiling above the rigid member. The bottom end of the rigid member is braced to secure the rigid member in place.

Abstract: The present invention relates to solid panel window shutters having both high strength and structural stability. More particularly, an exterior window shutter made of a solid panel of polyvinyl chloride with at least one support member affixed in the panel. The shutter includes a solid panel having front and back surfaces and side edges, support member, impact resistant member and slats having a channel to receive the support member; wherein the support member is embedded between the panel and the slats. Also contemplated by this invention are: a method to manufacture high strength and structurally stable exterior window shutters and a method to protect windows from extreme weather.

Abstract: A cover construction (10) for windows, including a generally rectangular housing member (20) which is affixed to, and projects outwardly from, a window frame (101) via a mounting flange (26) and further includes an angled roof panel (21), a floor panel (25), a pair of opposed side panels (22), (23) and a generally open front panel (24).

Abstract: A method and apparatus for insulating apertures is disclosed. An insulating dome is placed over these apertures and can be locked into place, thereby providing insulation for the aperture. The apertures that are typically uninsulated are hidden stair openings and whole-house fans, plywood attic access passageways or other openings. The insulating dome can be lifted automatically once the hidden folding stair is opened or the whole-house fan is used.

Abstract: A frame (2) expandable in a structural opening has a stretchable substantially fluid impermeable cover membrane (25) disposed across the frame and arranged to stretch with expansion of the frame. The frame (2) is preferably expandable in mutually perpendicular directions, and provided with peripheral seals (27) for sealing in the structural arrangement. The barrier is conveniently fitted in openings such as doors and the like to provide a temporary barrier to rising floodwaters and the like.

Abstract: A frame expandable in a structural opening has a stretchable substantially fluid impermeable cover membrane disposed across the frame and arranged to stretch with expansion of the frame. The frame is preferably expandable in mutually perpendicular directions, and provided with peripheral seals for sealing in the structural arrangement. The barrier is conveniently fitted in openings such as doors and the like to provide a temporary barrier to rising floodwaters and the like.

Abstract: The inflatable heat and sun reflecting screen 10 takes advantage of heat reflecting metallic foil in reducing the overall temperature in conservatories 18 during the summer months.

Abstract: A window assembly for a mass transit vehicle adapted to receive a transparent protective member to be positioned adjacent an inner surface of a piece of window glazing by a set of retaining brackets that provide rapid removal of the member without having to remove the retaining brackets. The retaining brackets enclose all four edges of the vehicle window glazing and incorporate a defined space between the window glazing an the inner surface of the retaining brackets. The protective member is positioned within the defined space and can be moved between a secured position and a release position.

Abstract: This invention relates to the field of extruded polyvinyl foam shutters. More particularly this invention relates to a frame for mounting shutters on doors with glass panels. The present invention addresses the problem in the industry by providing a shutter mounting frame which has an extension normal to the mounting surface which conceals the glass mounting bead, and positions the framing piece so that the mounting nails or screws are inserted through the shutter frame into the glass mounting bead.

Abstract: A force resistant door and window framing system has blast, forced entry, and ballistic resistant frame sections each formed of a single basic monolithic, homogenous steel component. Each section is extruded or drawn through a die to provide the desired cross sectional shape, incorporating features for precluding forced entry, whether by hand, ballistic firearm, or blast, at least to the limits of strength of the structure. The sections (jamb and header for doors, or stile, header, and sill for windows) are then welded at their mating ends to form a single, rigid structure, with an additional interior stop provided for the window within a window frame. The present invention is far superior to such structures of the prior art which are formed of a relatively large number of stock components, thus requiring extensive linear welds and resulting in a considerably heavier and yet weaker structure.

Abstract: An apparatus, a windscreen, and method for securing a structure against damage from high winds, wherein the windscreen is engagable with a track with slidable, adjustable connectors such as eyebolt connectors or fixed pin connectors that is secured to the eaves or sides of a house, and, with a coarse fabric such as the sheet attached to the track with strap like elements and connectors and anchoring device for securing the windscreen to the ground preventing damage to the structure.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for preserving a subglass of a driving room of a heavy equipment which is installed in an inner side surface of an entrance door of a driving room for safely preserving a subglass when the subglass which is detachably installed in a lower portion of a front surface of a driving room of a heavy equipment is separated based on a working environment.

Abstract: A brace for protecting windows and buildings during a high wind storm is disclosed. The brace includes a rigid member sized so as to fit within a window frame containing the window to be protected, and double-sided tape affixed to one side of the rigid member for affixing the rigid member to the window to be protected. Various method for imparting a force to the brace to cause it to become firmly wedged within the window frame of the window and building to be protected are also disclosed, and include the use of the installer's hands, the use of a hinged member rotatably connected to the brace which is capable of being wedged against the window frame, the use of a swing arm connected to the brace which can be firmly wedged against the window frame, and the use of a ratchet to advance a dampening member from within the brace to firmly engage the window frame. Methods of using the disclosed brace are also disclosed.

Abstract: A gate for sliding windows or doors in a frame is provided. The gate provides two gate elements. The first element is attached to the window frame. The second element is attached to the sliding window. The two elements are coupled together to allow each element to slide across the other. The elements are positioned in the frame to create a barrier in a space created when a window is slid to an open position.

Abstract: The window scoop is an item that when properly installed on an exterior window will eliminate rain from coming in the house, eliminate pollen and air contaminants, will detour burglar's from breaking in your property, will save on electric bill. Will protect house in severe weather conditions. Will deaden sound from outside sources. Once installed needs no maintenance.

Abstract: A vent cover plate system for the register of a ventilation system that securely and snugly fits over the register thereby blocking the flow of air from that register. The vent cover plate is releasably attached to the register by hook and loop fastening material, magnetic material and mixtures thereof, and can include a rectangular strip of rubber tubing insulation to provide an air tight seal. The vent cover plate system allows for the localized and selective control of airflow in a room or building. Therefore, the specific ventilation requirements of a room or building can be readily achieved.

Abstract: Relatively thin collectibles such as movie posters and sports jerseys, as well as relatively thin works of art and the like are displayed through transparent bottom wall regions of relatively thin protective enclosures that are sized the same as and substituted for selected ceiling tile in a suspended ceiling. Each of the protective enclosures has a top wall that overlies at least a transparent region of the enclosure's bottom wall. Preferably the protective enclosures are generally square or rectangular to correspond with the size and shape of the ceiling tile they replace, and have top and bottom walls that extend substantially the full widths and lengths of the enclosures for being connected near their perimeters to cooperate directly or with short upstanding side walls to define thin display compartments that are closed to minimize the circulation of ambient air therethrough for protectively housing collectibles that are to be displayed through transparent central regions of the bottom walls.

Abstract: A window guard assembly having a multiple set of permanent window brackets installed on the exterior sides of a window framing of a building or residential home at the top and bottom thereof. A top set of window brackets is arranged with mechanical fasteners as first and second inverted J-shaped mounting brackets. A bottom set of window brackets is disposed on the bottom window framing as first and second mounting brackets, and the bottom brackets are aligned with the top set of window brackets. The brackets facilitate the installation of a protective planar covering to prevent damage from flying debris during violent weather. The brackets can also facilitate substitution of a pair of decorative shutters during non-hazardous weather conditions. Each bracket may have rounded corners and include an opening in the back portion.

Abstract: An apparatus for permanently securing a grating sheet having parallel and transverse bars that form a pattern of openings to a structural member. The apparatus includes an elongated generally L-shaped connector having an upper plate section generally rectangular in shape for mounting on an upper surface of the grating sheet and a downwardly extending sidewall formed integrally with the plate section and adapted to extend along a longitudinal edge of the grating sheet. The L-shaped connector also can include a plurality of downwardly extending teeth formed integrally with the plate section and spaced apart from each other for insertion in between the grating bars. At least one generally right-angled brace is attached to the outer surface of the sidewall for permanently securing the L-shaped connector to the structural member.

Abstract: The present invention provides an exterior window shutter that is made of PVC, has functional louvers, but is still hurricane resistant. The shutter includes a perimeter framework that is adapted to receive a transparent impact resistant member. This impact resistant member is permanently affixed to the perimeter framework to increase structural stability. Additionally, this invention provides a method to make a high strength and structurally stable hurricane resistant louvered shutter.

Abstract: A window screen installation system for releasably mounting a screen fabric or other pliable sheet material in such a manner as to self-tighten the fabric or material during installation. Moreover, the screen frame and trim mold are designed to allow for the mounting of the fabric or material without damaging the same such that it may be removed and reused as required. A screen is disposed and held securely in place between a screen frame extrusion member and a trim mold. The screen frame extrusion defines a mounting surface disposed below and parallel to an exterior face. A mounting rib extends along the mounting surface and terminates below the exterior face in the preferred embodiment. A bead is defined at the terminal edge of the mounting rib to serve as a locking mechanism. The trim mold defines a channel opening on the bottom surface thereof to closely receive the mounting rib of the screen frame extrusion.

Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses a louvered window insert comprising two louvered frame sections 39, 50 each having one vertical member 44, 60 with an upper and lower horizontal member 40, 42, 56, 58 extending from each end thereof and a plurality of louver blades 46, 52 extending horizontally therebetween. The distal ends of the horizontal members and louver blades of the first section have recesses 48, 54 to receive and slidably secure the horizontal members 56, 58 and louver blades 52 of the second section as they travel therethrough allowing a user to size the insert to a window 12 simply by placing the fully overlapped assembly inside an open window 12 and separating the two frame sections 39, 50 thereby reducing the overlap of the horizontal members and the louvers and effectively elongating the insert until the two vertical members 44, 60 are flush to their respective side jambs and then lowering the window 12 until it sits atop the present invention.

Abstract: A decorative shutter assembly includes a plurality of slats arranged in a row presenting a decorative surface with side flanges projecting rearwardly. At least one cross member overlays each of the slats and presents a decorative cross surface with side cross flanges projecting rearwardly. Each cross slat includes at least one mating member affixed behind the cross slat decorative surface having a mating wall affixed to each of the decorative surfaces for affixing the plurality batten slats to the cross slat. Alternatively, a plurality of primary slats are arranged to present a decorative surface having side flanges projecting rearwardly and at least one end piece is attached to the primary slats the ends of the primary slats are received in the end piece for adjoining and aligning said primary slats, said end piece including a cross member traversing said the primary and having slats and slat ends integrated into the end piece, each of said slats and slat ends aligning with one of the primary slats.

Abstract: A method of protecting glass panes in window structures installed in buildings includes applying a polymeric foam layer to the glass pane before the storm has arrived and peeling the polymeric foam layer from the glass pane after the storm has passed. The polymeric foam layer can be a polyurethane foam, provided as a one-component system or a two-component system, and the polyurethane foam can be sprayed onto the exterior surface of the glass pane to prevent damage thereto including shattering while absorbing energy from wind-borne debris. A window structure installed in a building includes a glass pane mounted to a frame with a polyurethane foam layer disposed thereon for protection of the glass pane during storms.

Abstract: A rupture panel for relieving an excess pressure differential between the interior and exterior of a vessel having a wall and an opening through the wall includes a first frame section connected to the vessel wall at the opening and a pair of pressure relief panels mounted to the frame, each panel having a stitched portion, the stitched portions providing opening capability on both vacuum and burst pressure control (or on either vacuum or burst pressure control). A pair of sealing members that sandwich the pair of pressure relief panels there between are provided, one of the sealing members engaging one of the pressure relief panels, the other sealing member engaging the other pressure relief panel. Each of the sealing members has a sealing surface that covers a stitched portion of an adjacent relief panel.

Abstract: A framed storm window construction having a relatively thick, impact and penetration resistant panel surrounded by a frame for mounting either over or within an opening formed in a wall. The peripheral edges of the panel fit within interior channels formed in the frame members. The frame members each have exterior channels on its exterior peripheral edges which define outwardly opening channels. Connector members having tongue portions fitted and held within said channels extend outwardly of the channels and terminate in connector strip flanges which are adapted to be secured, by mechanical fasteners, to the edge portions defining a window opening in a building wall. The framed window resists penetration by forcefully applied objects, such as wind hurled debris.

Abstract: A hurricane protection system comprises a rigid sheet in a rectangular configuration positioned within a window opening with an upper edge, a lower edge, and parallel side edges. A plurality of fixed retention mechanisms are secured to the sheet adjacent to the lower edge. Each fixed retention mechanism has a plate secured to the sheet and a downwardly extending finger with a lower end positioned in an associated hole and an upper end secured to the plate. A plurality of supplemental retention mechanisms are secured to the sheet adjacent to the upper and side edges. Each of the supplemental retention mechanisms include a J-shaped finger with a short leg and a long leg terminating in a free end reciprocal between a locked orientation within an associated hole and unlocked orientation out of, but aligned with, an associated hole. Each of the supplemental retention mechanisms include a bracket with a central face attached to the sheet.

Abstract: An adjustable length bracing device can be installed in a window frame or door frame to secure a sheet of covering material that is positioned to protect the window or door from flying debris resulting from a hurricane, tornado, or other storm. The brace device consists of two independent and moveable bars, which can be adjusted to fit the inside of a window or door opening. The adjustment is made by the use of a metal clip attached to one bar and inserted into a notch on the other bar. The ends of each bar have rubber pads to help prevent marring the window or door opening or frame and to prevent any slipping of the bracing device assembly. Once the assembly is in position, a locking metal ring holds both independent bars together to prevent movement.

Abstract: A pleated panel shutter system for an opening in a dwelling in which the pleated panel portions can be drawn to the side rendering the bulk of the opening available for ventilation, light, and the normal function of a window or a door. The pleated panel can be closed shut, and optionally locked, with securement against vandalism as well as high winds and flying debris damage, such as occurring in a hurricane. The strength of the pleated panels in the vertical orientation permits perforation over more than 50% of the surface of each of the panels, while still providing ample impact against winds up to 125 mph., and survive the impact test of a two by four (2×4) six (6) feet long fired at 34 mph. without deflecting more than 2½ inches.

Abstract: The installation of a garden window which encloses an opening in the wall of a building is effected by installing a support structure above the wall opening from which the garden window can be hung, then hanging the garden window from this structure in opening closing position and then permanently securing same to the wall. Also included in the invention are the garden window itself and its hanger support to facilitate such installation.

Abstract: A protective cover assembly used to cover and protect windows, doors or other wall openings for homes, office buildings, hotels, and other walled structures from the destructive forces of a high windstorm, such as a hurricane. The current form of the preferred embodiment consists of a high strength fabric covering an opening, such as a window and being supported by brackets, a rod and a bar. Once installed, the high strength fabric is stretched over the opening, through the use of a gears and ratchet assembly. The high strength fabric once stretched will provide protection from high winds and wind borne debris common in storms such as hurricanes. The protective cover assembly also prevents unlawful entries or break-ins of buildings. The high strength fabric is securely supported to the rod and steel bar that are firmly attached to the wall structure near the wall opening.

Abstract: An aperture covering including track-guided interconnectable panels that are compactly stored in a storage area containing weight counterbalancing mechanisms, such as a compressed spring, is described. When the panels are stacked in the storage area and removed one at a time, the first panel is removed from the storage area and enters the track. As the first panel moves through the track, it interlocks with the second panel and forces the second panel out of the storage area and into the track. Interlocking and removal of the panels continues until all of the panels are removed or the first panel reaches the end of the track. Weight counterbalancing can be assisted by track-contained toothed belts, cable and ball drive mechanisms, or other counterbalancing methods. The resulting aperture covering requires minimal storage space for the open aperture position, minimizes exposure to potentially hazardous counterbalancing mechanisms, and allows for heavy-weight panel construction.

Abstract: A device is provided for protecting a window or door during severe storms. A panel, cut to fit in a window frame, is held in place by the action of the locking assemblies described herein. A rubber gasket can be used along on e side of the panel in place of some of the locking assemblies. Different embodiments of the assembly are described for mounting along the sides of the panel. A “clip-on” assembly is also described.

Abstract: A window is protected from storms by applying a rigid protective panel, such as a plywood sheet cut to size, to the window frame. The panel is held securely in place by one or more innovative elongate braces or bars that extend from one wall of the window opening to an opposed wall. The brace has a long body provided with a planar friction pad at each end. Each pad is angularly adjustable relative to the long axis of the body to conform to the angle of the wall for maximum contact. One of the friction pads is connected to the body by a spring-loaded connection that allows for a short reciprocating motion with the spring urging the pad away from the body. This enables the user to temporarily hold the panel in place with one hand, while pushing the brace in place with both pads engaging opposed walls in a panel holding position with the other hand. The brace is then more tightly and securely extended by advancing a threaded nut that forces the pad farther away from the body.