Abstract: An air vent insert for mounting to the perimeter of a vent opening in a building structure to provide threaded mounting holes for an air vent cover. The insert includes an open frame having front and back faces, generally rectangular inner and outer perimeter edges, a spaced apart pair of elongate end members and a spaced apart pair of elongate side members extending between the end members. The inner perimeter edge of the frame defines a central opening. The frame is designed for mounting to a building structure around the periphery of an air vent opening in the building structure such that the center opening of the frame extends around the outer periphery of the air vent opening in the building structure. The frame is also designed for mounting an air vent cover thereto such that the air vent cover substantially covers the central opening.

Abstract: A glass block construction kit comprises a peripheral frame with inwardly directed lips on its opposite sides and an interior frame having an outer wall held by the lips on the peripheral frame. The peripheral frame is made from a plastic material such as vinyl and the like while the interior frame is made of a more rigid material. The interior frame also includes a plurality of frame members which form glass block pockets. Glass block retainers are mounted on both sides of each frame member. These retainers are again made of plastic, preferably the same material used in forming the peripheral frame.

Abstract: An apparatus for mounting security window film to a window frame, includes an elongate tensile loading transfer member having first and second adjacent elongate load bearing flanges and corresponding first and second respective elongate bearing surfaces thereon, first and second elongate double sided foam adhesive tape strips mountable, on first sides of the adhesive tape strips, along respective the first and second bearing surfaces, the first adhesive tape strip mountable on its second side, opposite to the first side, to an edge of a sheet of security window film having a thickness of at least 10 mil adhered to a glass window pane, the second adhesive tape strip mountable on its second side, opposite to the first side, to an edge of a window frame adjacent the edge of sheet of security window film, wherein, the first and second adhesive tape strips are adapted to bear approximately 225 lbs per square inch in tension applied to the first and second adhesive tape strips and to the security window film when a

Abstract: Fire-resistant structures are provided having at least a 20 minute ASTM E-152 fire test rating. The structures include glass partition walls having framing members formed from a gypsum-containing composition having a density of at least about 60 lbs/ft.sup.3, a flexural strength of at least 30 lbs (1/2 inch thick material), and a screw-holding capacity of at least about 400 lbs. The gypsum-containing composition further contains a substantially uniform distribution of solids including about 65 wt. % to about 90 wt. % set gypsum dihydrate, about 7 wt. % to about 30 wt. % paper fiber, and about 1.5 wt. % to about 35 wt. % of one or more performance boosters selected from inorganic fiber, clay, vermiculite, and binder polymer.

Abstract: A window insulating air bag includes a bag body presenting a perimetrical seam therearound and an adhesive strip extending continuously around the seam to secure and seal the air bag to the interior frame of the window. The bag body is formed of first and second layers of elastic thin plastic film, with the first layer being thinner than the second layer. This relationship presents a ballooning layer upon bag inflation adapted to engage the window's casing but spaced apart from the interior surface of the window. Preferably, the second layer has an air valve formed therein for inflation of the bag. Alternatively, the air bag is used with a conventional storm window having a rigid self supporting sheet of glass adapted to be secured to a window's exterior frame with the flexible air bag as discussed above secured to the window's interior frame.

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

Abstract: Glazing panels, such as window panes, are protected by sheets of masking material which cover central regions of the panel surfaces and which leave marginal regions uncovered. The masked panels are installed in frames which can thereafter be sanded or painted or otherwise chemically treated. Prior to and during such treatments, the surfaces of the panels are protected by the masking material. After all installation and treatment procedures are complete, the masking material is removed to expose the clean central regions of the panel surfaces.

Abstract: A surprisingly durable, strong, outdoor window shutter without functional louvers or slats, which is substantially comprised of polyvinyl chloride, is described. The shutter preferably has a center panel onto which is laminated two back vertical members. This is preferably in the shape of a rectangle with two opposite edges into which stepped projections have been cut. The shutter preferably also has two vertical side members, each having a channel containing a strengthening rod. The vertical side members have stepped arms which fit closely over the stepped projections. Mortise and tenon joints are formed at the point of connection between the stepped projections and the stepped arms. The strengthening rods and the mortise and tenon joints serve to strengthen the shutter. Additional strength is provided by horizontal members affixed to the top, middle and bottom of both the front and the back of the shutter. These shutters have excellent structural rigidity and can last for many years.

Abstract: A ventilation opening closure to close off a standard opening in a support structure such as a roof or wall includes a base and a cover plate. The base comprises a base ring, a seal ring between the base ring and the support structure, and a bevel-shaped seal ring to align and seal the cover plate with the base ring. The closure may include a pair of complementary hinges that the closure can be opened to the right or to the left. Alternatively, rather that the second hinge, the closure may include a latch means to more quickly shut the closure.

Abstract: A graffiti protected glass window for a vehicle can be quickly refurbished by changing a thin plastic guard window overlying the glass pane. The plastic guard window is retained within a resilient elastomeric mount which also retains the glass pane within the rigid window frame. A window guard seating space is defined along one side in a upper portion of the seating space defined in the mount for accommodating the glass pane. The side of the mount into which the window guard seating space is defined is molded so as to be slightly inwardly inclined to assist in weather sealing the window guard. The mount is selectively locked and unlocked by the use of a conventional locking channel and locking strip. The window guard is easily removed and reinserted using conventional hand tools.

Abstract: A rain deflector for a vehicle roof vent consists of a pair of like panels one of which is fastened to the cap of the roof vent and moves therewith, and is hinged to the second panel which has the end remote from the hinge connected to slide along tracks on the vehicle roof. Each panel is substantially larger than the vent cap, to extend beyond the edges of the vent and prevents rain from entering the vent while permitting ventilation of air through the vent.

Abstract: A storm shutter retainer assembly featuring a header structure incorporating an elongated retaining channel defined by front, rear, and top flanges integrally attached to one another in at least partially surrounding relation to the retaining channel and defining the boundaries thereof wherein the upper peripheral edge of a conventional metallic or like storm shutter is retained within the channel. A connecting assembly includes a connector element mounted on and extending the rear flange at a particular upwardly angled configuration so as to resist upwardly directed cantilever forces exerted on the header structure by the storm shutter during severely adverse weather conditions.

Abstract: A new Window Board system for offering a quick and easy way to insulate and fill a window opening. The inventive device includes an upper window insert end, a lower window insert end, and a compressive spring area. In use, the Window Board System (10) is compressed and fitted into a window frame (16) with the desired message (40) showing in the desired direction. The Window Board System (10) is placed into the window frame (16) when ever one desires to muffle noise, increase insulation value, or block out light. This can be done as often as one chooses, for example, put it in at night and take it out in the morning to make it darker, save on winter heat, and cut down on electrical bills.

Abstract: A penetration resistant door light adapted to withstand impact from flying debris as might occur in a hurricane or other high-wind condition. The door light includes inner and outer frame halves that support a panel assembly within an opening formed in a door. The panel assembly includes a sheet or layer of transparent impact resistant material such as a polycarbonate or laminated glass. The impact resistant sheet is structurally secured to at least screws extend through all of the inner frame half, the impact resistant sheet, and the outer frame half. In an alternative embodiment, a structural adhesive intersecures the impact resistant sheet and the outer frame half.

Abstract: A laminated glass pane having at least one rigid glass sheet and one flexible plastic material sheet is described, which has a peripheral strip disposed over at least a part of the edge of the pane over at least one edge of a flexible plastic sheet. The peripheral strip has two layers of respectively different materials, a first layer designated the "internal layer", is comprised of a material having a softening temperature which is less than or equal to the temperature employed in autoclaving the sheets which are components of the pane, and a second layer designated the "external layer", is comprised of a material having a softening temperature which is greater than the temperature employed in autoclaving the sheets.

Abstract: A material used to fabricate sashes used by window assemblies. The material comprises a foam core covered by a cladding material. The foam core acts as a filler and provides insulation, while the cladding material protects the foam core from the environment and physical abuse. Often, a structural assembly or member is provided to stiffen the sash material. The cladding and structural assembly are placed into a mold and resin is injected into the mold between the cladding and the structural assembly. The resin cures to form the foam core. The foam core bonds the cladding and structural assembly together to form the sash material. The sash material is cut with woodworking tools to form a sash for a window assembly. The cladding is configured such that, when the window assembly is installed in a wall, interior vapor barrier material and exterior air barrier material applied to the wall overlap with the cladding material to reduce air flow through the wall around the window assembly.

Abstract: An attic hatchway cover wherein a tent-like structure having side walls, a front wall, and a rear wall each having a flange structure are arranged to engage and for securement to a hatchway opening framework employing mounting strips, such that fastening structure secures each mounting strip to each associated flange and simultaneously to the framework. The top wall of the cover employs a flap member selectively securable to the top wall and displaceable therefrom by use of a generally U-shaped zipper to disengage the flap relative to the top wall.

Abstract: A channel clip which is configured to hold glass or plastic decorative panels in front of single or dual pane windows without affecting the existing window glass and while permitting a spaced and secure relationship between the decorative panel and the inner-most window pane in the proximity of which the decorative panel is installed. In a preferred embodiment herein, the channel clip of the present invention is a transparent, injection-molded polycarbonate device having three integrated structural members including a base member and a pair of panel retaining members. The retaining members are positioned preferably in perpendicular relationship to the base member and in spaced apart parallel relation to one another. A gap formed therebetween is adapted to receive the designer panel. The base member preferably is provided with a countersunk or tapered aperture which is designed to accommodate a wood screw to secure the channel clip into the underlying surface adjacent the window pane.

Abstract: An improved hurricane shutter is disclosed. The shutter is of the type in which a plurality of interlocking corrugated panels are attached between a header above the opening and a sill below the opening. The corrugated panels extend beyond lateral edges of the opening, so that they cover the entire opening. The hurricane shutter is improved with a reinforcement bar extending substantially parallel to and midway in between the header and the sill of the opening. The bar is additionally attached to the wall structure next to the opening. A concomitant method for improving the strength of a hurricane shutter assembly is also disclosed.

Abstract: A louvered window assembly comprises a fixed window unit B fixedly fitted on a rear side within a window opening A, a louver unit C being slightly less in height and width than the window opening A and to be fitted on a front side within the window opening A, and means for releasably fitting the louver unit C within the window opening A.

Abstract: Anti-vandalism sheets for the interior of public transportation vehicle windows are provided and comprise flexible yet sturdy protective sheets of acrylic and selected brackets for securing the sheet to the interior of a motor vehicle window. A plurality of fixed brackets are positioned about three of the four edges of the window, having one portion connected to a window frame housing the motor vehicle window and a second portion sufficiently distanced from the surface of the window to accommodate the thickness of the sheet for securing the sheet adjacent the windows. A selectively removable retaining bracket is positioned on the edge of the window unoccupied by the fixed brackets.

Abstract: An impact-resisting anti-lacerative window glass unit or laminate of a sandwich structure is disclosed, which comprises two exterior plate-like member made of a transparent organic polymer (A) and a transparent organic polymer (B) or a transparent inorganic material, respectively, and multilayer structure intermediate films made of at least two kinds of polymers (C). The multilayer structure intermediate films are interposed between two exterior plate-like members.

Abstract: A closure is provided for temporarily sealing a roof vent. The closure has a resilient core receivable within the opening of the vent, the core pressing against the sides of the vent to hold the closure in place. A mounting plate carries the core, and the mounting plate limits the entry of the core into the vent. The mounting plate also includes a handle for manipulation of the closure. The mounting plate is formed of somewhat stiff material. A center section receives the core, and opposed end sections have cutouts shaped to match the core, the end sections being folded over to hold the core in place. Staples or other fastening devices hold the end sections against the center section.

Abstract: Devices for covering the interior of windows include venetian blinds, shades, drapes, curtains and shutters. A simple decorative alternative to such devices is a system including a rectangular frame for mounting in or on a window frame, the rectangular frame containing partitions extending between the top and bottom or sides of the frame, both sides of the partitions and the inner sides of the top and bottom or sides of the frame containing recesses defining longitudinally and transversely extending tracks, in which are mounted a plurality of discrete panels. The panels can be slid longitudinally and transversely of the frame independently of each other for blocking selected portions of the window opening.

Abstract: A touch fastener component for flush-mounting a structure to a support comprising a resilient member having one portion of a touch fastener material attached to a surface thereof adjacent a center portion thereof, a restraining device defining the length of a chord of the curvature of the member to form a curved resilient spring able to move from a first of two stable positions to a second of the two stable positions, and an adjusting device for adjusting the chord length of the member. The elements of one portion of the touch fastener, when engaged with the elements of the other touch fastener, resiliently fasten the structure and the support together by a force provided by the engagement of the elements of the touch fasteners and the resilience of the resilient member.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a window assembly including a transparent sheet having a layer of retention material adhered thereto, and a method and apparatus for producing such a window assembly. The apparatus includes at least two cooperating mold sections having facing surfaces defining a chamber for receiving the transparent sheet which can be shaped for use as a vehicle backlight. A seal is positioned about a periphery of a predetermined area on a surface of the transparent sheet on which the film is to be formed. The seal, the predetermined surface area of the transparent sheet and the mold define a forming cavity into which is injected a thermosetting polyurethane material. The material is at least partially cured in the cavity. Thereafter, the window assembly is removed from the mold chamber with a polyurethane retention shield adhered to the predetermined surface area.

Abstract: A system for mounting a relatively thick multiple glazed sealed unit to a wooden sash assembly of a standard thickness. The system comprises a peripheral base member inserted between the glazed unit and the sash of the window and a retaining moulding engaged to the peripheral base member and pressing the glazed unit in the sash to hold it in place. A suitable weather strip is applied between the glazed unit and the retaining moulding to prevent air infiltration.

Abstract: A protective panel for attachment to a window or door pane. The panel is a molded one-piece body of suitable transparent plastic material with a peripheral rim having a flat adhesive-covered face for attachment to the window pane. Inside this rim the panel has adjoining inclined flat segments extending laterally inward from the rim at a substanial angle to the plane of the adhesive-covered face of the rim. Additional segments of the panel close the space inside the inclined flat segments.

Abstract: A system for mounting a relatively thick multiple glazed sealed unit to a wooden sash assembly of a standard thickness. The system comprises a peripheral base member inserted between the glazed unit and the sash of the window and a retaining moulding engaged to the peripheral base member and pressing the glazed unit in the sash to hold it in place. A suitable weather strip is applied between the glazed unit and the retaining moulding to prevent air infiltration.

Abstract: A magnet support and retainer for post-construction installed interior storm windows formed as a unitary plastic extrusion having a U-shaped pane-receiving portion, a rigid magnet mounting portion and a connecting portion, preferably flexible, formed therebetween. The magnet mounting portion includes an elongate rigid planar strip having a pair of depending edge flanges defining a cavity for tightly receiving a strip magnet of generally rectangular cross-section and an intermediate depending flange including barb portions adapted to be received tightly within a facing groove formed in the magnet. The opposite magnet face is engaged upon a ferromagnetic strip or sash surface for installation of the storm window. Resilience is afforded sufficient to compensate for irregularities in the pane or in the cooperating ferromagnetic surface when the storm window is installed. The magnet is force fitted in the cavity enabling easy assembly.

Abstract: A window assembly which includes a light transmissive heat insulator. The insulator is comprised of a high loft body of bonded together synthetic staple fibers and a plastic film adhered thereto. The window assembly with its insulator has a heat resistance R value of at least about 3 while also being substantially transmissive to incident light.

Abstract: A window insulating system including horizontally and vertically arranged channel members positioned in a window wall opening and spaced inwardly of the window surface. Insulating panels are positioned in the channels and can either be opaque fiberglass panels or translucent or transparent panels of glass or plastic. Horizontal channels are secured adjacent the upper edge of the window wall opening and can be secured adjacent the lower edge of the window wall opening or can be above that surface. The vertical channels are frictionally attached to the panel member and the panels plus vertical channels are slipped into the horizontal channels and are thus easily removable for access to the window for maintenance or cleaning purposes. The outer edges of the outermost vertical channels adjacent the vertical window wall opening edges are formed from a resilient material and include an integral, outwardly extending sealing strip which is in sealing engagement with the adjacent window opening edge.

Abstract: The method of retro-fitting a window from a single windowpane into a double windowpane wherein an existing windowpane in a sash is measured for the purpose of cutting a glass pane to the precise dimensions or slightly less than that of the exposed glass in the existing windowpane. Such glass pane has a sealant strip applied to the entire perimeter thereof. The strip can also be initially applied existing window pane. The glass and strip are then placed onto the existing windowpane to secure such glass pane to the windowpane and sash. Thereafter a stop is placed around the entire perimeter of the glass pane and is secured to the sash.

Abstract: This invention is a method, and apparatus for performing the method, wherein ordinary single-pane windows, door, and the like, can be converted to double-pane or triple-pane insulated items. The method involves trimming of caulking material, disassembling the frame of the item, partially or fully, and placing suitable spacing material around the existing pane of glass, and placing another pane of glass adjacent the spacing material, inserting a pre-formed holding member into the frame encompassing the new pane, and reassembling the frame. The same procedure is followed for triple-pane, except that additional spacing material and glass are added.

Abstract: A border molding strip is placed about the perimeter of an existing window pane. A second pane is then placed upon this border material. A retaining border is then placed to retain the window pane firmly against the border material, thus creating an airtight seal between the existing window pane, the border material and the second window pane. Appropriate adhesive and sealing compounds are applied to insure an airtight seal. Thereafter, the space between the existing window pane and the supplemental pane is purged with dry gas and may be evacuated through an opening exposed under a portion of the retaining means. After the window pane is purged and evacuated, a plug is inserted and the opening in the molding material is closed.

Abstract: A sectionalized panel of metal for guarding exposed windows on vehicle cabs and passenger compartments to protect from vandalism such as stone throwing. It serves on the outside as a stone-shield or night guard particularly for tractor cab windshields and is comprised of overlapping, interlockable, metal cladding plate sections which resemble a closed louver when installed and which are readily detachable and are hung below the windshield on the outside of the tractor cab when stored.

Abstract: A retroglazed glass pane of a window, wherein a spacing element, which is attached and sealed to the peripheral portion of a face of a new or second pane slightly smaller than the original light of the first or existing pane, is bonded to the confronting face of the first pane in a position such that a space remains between the sash elements and the edge of the second pane and the radially outward side of the spacing element, wherein such space is partially filled with a sealant material, which seals between the spacer and the first pane, and which such space is further filled with a resiliently compressible rod, typically of a rubberlike foam material, the rod being preferably characterized by low thermal conductivity; and a method of retroglazing wherein a desiccant is contained in such spacing element, protected against exposure prior to installation of the second pane, and wherein such rod is forced into the space between the edge of the second pane and the sash to force sealant material pre-deposited in

Abstract: A thermal insulation structure for windows including a plastic multi-cell layer, a flat transparent plastic sheet supporting the cell layer, ribbing support for each cell on the flat sheet and a transparent adhesive coated on the flat sheet. The insulation structure is transparent to outside light and provides a simple means for significantly reducing heat loss through the window.

Abstract: A lightweight removable combination air and insect control panel for mounting on the internal or external sides of window frames in situ for the tight sealing thereof, said panel having two portions, a full frame portion having a sheet of rigid transparent material in its upper second and a sheet of screen material in its lower section, both being tightly secured in a lightweight frame structure. A second half-frame portion has a sheet of rigid transparent material secured in a similar half-size perimeter frame sized to fit over the screened section of the full frame portion. The frame structure also includes grooves for the insertion and securing of flexible weather stripping to ensure a tight retention of the screen material and a tight seal against the window frame. Two circular loops at the top of the panel engage corresponding hooks on the window frame. A minimal number of side and base spring loaded fastening means are used to secure the combination control panel in its sealed position.

Abstract: A system for double glazing existing panes in windows or the like in which a pane of translucent or lightaltering material is cut to the shape of the exposed surface of an existing windowpane within its sash. The additional pane is secured to the existing pane through the use of magnetically intermateable spacer strips which are secured to the added and existing panes around their outer periphery by means of an adhesive. The intermateable spacer strips are of a thickness which allows for separation of the two panes by a sufficient distance to create an air space therebetween to enhance the insulating properties of the structure. A thin flexible strip of decorative material is secured to the surface of the attachable pane opposite the existing pane along its periphery so as to overlap the adhesive on the opposite face of the attached pane while extending outward to overlap the inside edges of the sash and thereby additionally seal and insulate the area around the outer periphery of the attached pane.

Abstract: A pane having a flowable, moisture-resistant adhesive on its inner marginal edge portions is positioned on an existing glazed unit mounted in a fenestration. An elongated member having a grooved form therein is mounted to the fenestration walls or framing with the groove facing the outer marginal edge portions of the pane. Thereafter, a resilient glazing strip is urged in the groove to bias the pane toward the existing glazing, to flow the adhesive, to effect a hermetic seal between the pane and the glazed unit and to provide an acceptable closure between the applied elongated member and the installed pane.

Abstract: A tool for installing a pane to an existing glazing to provide an insulating, sealed airspace therebetween includes a plate having a pin on one surface to secure the tool to a frame of the existing glazing. A shaft slidably mounted on the other side of the plate urges a blade against the marginal edges of the pane to flow adhesive between the pane and existing glazing to form a hermetic seal.

Abstract: A window or similar pane of glass that is rendered burglar-proof by being faced with a relatively thinner film of strong transparent plastic material adhesively secured to said glass pane, the cohesion of the latter being such that while the glass pane may break under the force of blows applied to it or to the outer surface of the film adhesive, the broken pieces of the pane will be retained in their co-planar position adhesively held in place by said film. A reinforcing frame may be provided to firmly hold the four or more circumscribing edges of the film of adhesive secured to the window frame.

Abstract: Transmittance of solar radiation (heat and/or light) through a glazing installation is reduced by adhering an additional pane of glass directly onto an installed pane with no airspace therebetween.

Abstract: There is provided an insulating unit, such as a double-glazed sealed window unit, comprising at least two spaced-apart transparent plates. The plates are sealingly joined together around their peripheral edges by sealing means, thereby to form a sealed chamber in which there is enclosed a medium such as gas, air or liquid. Means are provided to permit a pivoting movement of at least one of the transparent plates towards and away from an opposing plate, thereby to increase or decrease the volume of the enclosed medium in response to changes in the temperature of the transparent plates.

Abstract: An additional pane is added to an existing glazing installation to provide an insulating, sealed airspace therebetween.