Abstract: A demountable wall system includes a frame component. The frame component may include a front channel that receives a panel of the demountable wall system. In addition to the front channel, the frame component may include at least one of a front cover, a removable back cover, a leveling system, a supplemental channel, or a joining system. In some examples, the demountable wall system includes a door support system for movably supporting a door relative to the panel of the demountable wall system.

Abstract: The invention comprises a two-part support member for curtain walls capable of withstanding the extreme loads required for extra-large walls with minimal deformation comprising two independently extrudable components, each of which may be produced on standard extruders and attachment means that holds the extrudable components together. The sections fit together in such a way that inevitable deformations that occur during production are taken into account and corrected for. Due to the hitherto unattainable stiffness values that this combination of components may reach, extra-large curtain walls mounting and supporting is achieved that was otherwise unattainable. The cross sectional area of the sections is relatively small allowing for lightweight members to be extruded that use a minimum of material.

Abstract: A self-locking handrail system includes a female profile and a male profile. The female profile includes a first leg, a first locking extension that is approximately parallel to the first leg, having a gap formed therebetween, and a first vertical leg extending from the first locking extension approximately orthogonal to the first locking extension. The male profile includes a second vertical leg, and a second locking extension extending from a free end of the second locking extension, forming a fulcrum. A panel is positioned between the first vertical leg and the second vertical leg. A bar is positioned between the panel and the second vertical leg, the bar having first and second surfaces opposite one another that are not parallel with one another, causing the female and male profiles to engage by tilting the second vertical leg outward from the panel and about the fulcrum.

Abstract: Certain embodiments provide systems and methods for providing a window wall with flush slab edge covers. A window wall system can include a sill receptor configured to fixably attach to a top surface of a slab. The window wall system may include a head receptor configured to fixably attach to an underside surface of the slab. The window wall system can include a window wall panel including panel infill and a panel sill configured to detachably couple to the sill receptor. The window wall system may include a slab edge cover including cover infill. The slab edge cover can be configured to detachably couple to the window wall panel and the head receptor. In various embodiments, an exterior surface of the panel infill and an exterior surface of the cover infill are configured to flushly align when the slab edge cover is detachably coupled to the window wall panel.

Abstract: Disclosed are frame members and mullions for a window frame that comprise a reinforcing member that is surrounded by an outer plastic layer. The outer plastic layer is held securely to the reinforcing member as a result of a waist banding effect that comprises an inward force created by the outer plastic layer as it cools and contracts around the reinforcing member. In addition, lobes are formed in the reinforcing member that assist in holding the outer plastic layer to the reinforcing member. Window inserts can be removed and replaced using adapters and removable brackets. Frame members and mullions can be built sufficiently strong to provide structural support. The frame can also be used to hold photovoltaic cells and protective coverings for photovoltaic cells. Structural members are also disclosed that have reinforcing members with apertures, debossing, scarification and/or indentations that secure the thermoplastic layer to the reinforcing member.

Abstract: A door lite frame comprises a first frame component comprising first screw bosses and first grip sockets, and a second frame component comprising second screw bosses and second grip sockets. The first and second frame components are constructed to permit arrangement of the first and second frame components in an assembled state and a nested state with respect to one another. In the assembled state, the first screw bosses are correspondingly aligned with the second screw bosses, and the first and second frame components are secured to each other. In the nested state, at least one of the first screw bosses of the first frame component is mated with at least one of the second grip sockets of the second frame component.

Abstract: In certain example embodiments of this invention, a window unit may include a vacuum IG (VIG) unit as an inboard lite and a monolithic lite (e.g., with an optional low-E coating thereon) as an outboard lite. A dead air space may separate the inboard and outboard lites. A highly insulated frame may be used to support the inner and outer lites. The VIG unit may be partially embedded or supported in the insulative frame, so that the insulating frame separates the VIG unit inboard lite from the outboard lite thereby reducing conductivity around the edges of the window unit so that R-value can be increased (and U-value decreased). In certain example embodiments, the total R-value of the window unit is at least about R-8, and more preferably at least about R-10 (compared to the much lower R-values of conventional IG units).

Abstract: A storm trim for holding a panel over a window for protection against impact of objects carried by wind during a storm. The storm trim includes a lineal cap and a lineal base. The base may be used with a window frame, incorporated into a window frame or be used in glazing surrounds or shutters. The base carries a stacked screw boss to receive and securely hold the anchoring screws that are needed to hold the panel over the window. The anchoring screws do not extend through the lineal base but remain within it. When the storm trim is not in use, the cap covers the lineal base.

Abstract: An insulated glazing unit with a nanotechnology enhanced film for improved IGU insulating capability. The present invention makes use of a layered film or sheet system to further provide a double or triple pane window glazing unit sound, vibration, and thermal insulation with the option of allowing users to still view through the unit clearly.

Abstract: A modular fenestration system includes a collection of standardized functional units such as double hung window units, casement window units, picture window units, transom units, and the like. The functional units all share common sightlines, common glass set-back, common interfaces, common design language, and are sized according to a unique modular or incremental sizing grid. The sizing grid specifies individual window units in terms of the rough opening size in which they are designed to be installed. Individual functional units are easily combinable in a vast array of combinations to create a large number of possible composite window units. The system also includes a collection of interior and exterior trim units, grilles, and hardware in various architectural styles that can be attached to installed standardized functional units via the common interfaces to match the architecture of a particular home or building.

Abstract: A window frame system having a window frame and cavity frame formed to frictionally fit within the window frame. An opening is cut in a wall based on measurements of the cavity frame, and the ends of the cavity frame are trimmed based upon the opening cut in the wall. Jack screws are inserted through holes in the window frame to center and level the system by pushing the cavity frame away from the window frame to engage the edges of the opening.

Abstract: A refrigerated display cabinet door includes inner and outer polygonal annular frames each formed as a single substantially homogenous polymeric/copolymeric injection molded member. An insulated glass unit is bonded to the inner and outer frames which are forcefully held together by a periphery snap fastening mechanism which avoids conventional use of clamps, vises or the like during adhesive cure/set-up. Conventional pivot pins carried by the display door are uniquely guided into pivot pin openings through guiding and locating members which can be snap-secured in openings of a frame in a display case.

Abstract: A window insert system that advantageously provides a high strength mounting system for windows to be positioned within an opening is provided. The window insert system for mounting the window into a an opening formed in a door or other structural element includes a mounting channel connected to a door or other structural element, a window rail to overlie the mounting channel and support a window therein, and a window securing member to engage a portion of the window rail to secure the window. The window rail may include an outer surface portion, an inner sidewall, an exterior sidewall, and a window carrying member. The window may be positioned between the window carrying member and the window securing member.

Abstract: A door lite frame comprises a first frame component comprising first screw bosses and first grip sockets, and a second frame component comprising second screw bosses and second grip sockets. The first and second frame components are constructed to permit arrangement of the first and second frame components in an assembled state and a nested state with respect to one another. In the assembled state, the first screw bosses are correspondingly aligned with the second screw bosses, and the first and second frame components are secured to each other. In the nested state, at least one of the first screw bosses of the first frame component is mated with at least one of the second grip sockets of the second frame component.

Abstract: A vacuum insulated glass (VIG) window unit installation configuration and method for installing a VIG window unit in a window frame that was designed to accommodate at least a thicker IG (insulating glass/integrated glass) window unit(s). The VIG window unit may be supported on a first side by a first stop portion of the frame and on a second side by a second stop portion of the frame. A spacer structure is provided along at least one side of the VIG window unit between the VIG window unit and at least one of the first and second stop portions, the spacer structure including at least one hollow area surrounded by a solid portion when viewed cross sectionally.

Abstract: A self-lock glazing mechanism of two aluminum extrusion profiles, a male profile and a female profile, to self-lock glass panels using beadings. The mechanism functions when a glass panel is positioned on setting blocks over the flat surface of the upper leg of the female profile—with spacers between the vertical leg of the female profile and the glass panel and the male profile with the locking tip facing upward on its horizontal leg inserted into the gap between the upper leg and the lower leg of the female profile against the female locking tip above. The locking tips of both male and female profiles are then engaged by tilting the vertical leg of the male profile outward about its built-in fulcrum, and inserting wedges into the space created between the glass panel and the vertical leg of the male profile, for keeping the glass panel locked in position.

Abstract: There is provided a window/door system having a hidden rail structure wherein a rail structure is detachably installed at a substructure, the substructure installed where a window/door is to be installed, thereby making it very easy to replace and to maintain/repair the rail. In addition, the rail is hidden so as not to be visible to the outside when a window/door is opened/closed. That is, the present invention is to provide a window/door system having a hidden rail structure, wherein the rail structure is detachably installed at a substructure positioned where a window/door frame is to be installed, thereby making it very easy to replace and to maintain/repair the rail.

Abstract: A modular fenestration system includes a collection of standardized functional units such as double hung window units, casement window units, picture window units, transom units, and the like. The functional units all share common sightlines, common glass set-back, common interfaces, common design language, and are sized according to a unique modular or incremental sizing grid. The sizing grid specifies individual window units in terms of the rough opening size in which they are designed to be installed. Individual functional units are easily combinable in a vast array of combinations to create a large number of possible composite window units. The above attributes of the functional units ensures that the composite window units are architecturally pleasing and appear as though they were custom crafted.

Abstract: A window or door assembly and/or system having a drain method and device that is less invasive than previous implementations. The assembly can include slidable window or door panels and an upright support allowing translational movement of the panels. Distal thereto, a weeping upright is provided. The upright support and the weeping upright can form a channel therebetween where the liquid is collected, wherein the channel in one embodiment is L-shaped. To remove liquid from the channel, an accumulator that is perpendicular to the channel can receive the fluid through an opening. Liquid can also be removed through a drainage opening within the upright support or weeping upright. An aperture along with a connector along a bottom portion of the channel can also be used to remove the liquid within the channel.

Abstract: A window includes a window frame adapted to be secured to a building, a window sash, and a plurality of sash clips disposed around the sash and fixedly securing the sash to the frame. Each of the sash clips preferably includes a base secured in fixed position to the window frame and a head received in the window sash. The window frame and the sash preferably have peripheral rails of extruded aluminum, plastic or fiber-reinforced resin construction, and the base and head of the sash clips are received in corresponding channels on the window frame and the window sash. The base and/or the head of the sash of each sash clip may include opposed flexible resilient spring legs received in a channel in the corresponding rail. The sash clips may be of plastic construction.

Abstract: A window jamb channel attachment apparatus. The apparatus can include a channel clip, the channel clip including a first foot, a second foot, a first leg, a second leg, and a joining portion, the first foot and the second foot adapted to couple to a window jamb channel, the first leg having a first end coupled to the first foot and a second end coupled to the joining portion, the second leg having a first end coupled to the second foot and a second end coupled to the joining portion, the joining portion including an aperture defined therein. The apparatus can further include an object holder removably coupled to the channel clip, the object holder including a body, a fastener portion sized and shaped to be received in the aperture of the channel clip, and an object support portion.

Abstract: Disclosed are frame members and mullions for a window frame that comprise a reinforcing member that is surrounded by an outer plastic layer. The outer plastic layer is held securely to the reinforcing member as a result of a waist banding effect that comprises an inward force created by the outer plastic layer as it cools and contracts around the reinforcing member. In addition, lobes are formed in the reinforcing member that assist in holding the outer plastic layer to the reinforcing member. Window inserts can be removed and replaced using adapters and removable brackets. Frame members and mullions can be built sufficiently strong to provide structural support. The frame can also be used to hold photovoltaic cells and protective coverings for photovoltaic cells. Structural members are also disclosed that have reinforcing members with apertures, debossing, scarification and/or indentations that secure the thermoplastic layer to the reinforcing member.

Abstract: A window system for installation in a structure is provided. The window system includes a front side that faces away from the structure and a back side that faces into the structure when the window system is installed in a structure. The window system further includes at least one window pane having a front side that faces away from the structure and a back side that faces into the structure when the window system is installed in a structure; at least one sash that surrounds the at least one window pane, wherein the sash has a front side that faces away from the structure and a back side that faces into the structure when the window system is installed in a structure; at least one window frame comprising at least one head, sill, and jamb; and at least one mounting base integral to the window.

Abstract: In certain example embodiments of this invention, a window unit may include a vacuum IG (VIG) unit as an inboard lite and a monolithic lite (e.g., with an optional low-E coating thereon) as an outboard lite. A dead air space may separate the inboard and outboard lites. A highly insulated frame may be used to support the inner and outer lites. The VIG unit may be partially embedded or supported in the insulative frame, so that the insulating frame separates the VIG unit inboard lite from the outboard lite thereby reducing conductivity around the edges of the window unit so that R-value can be increased (and U-value decreased). In certain example embodiments, the total R-value of the window unit is at least about R-8, and more preferably at least about R-10 (compared to the much lower R-values of conventional IG units).

Abstract: A glazing unit is provided in which a two part bush is provided such that relative movement between a fastener, a glazing component and a wing skin is permitted, thus avoiding stress concentrations and lowering risk of damage in use.

Abstract: A window assembly according to various embodiments includes a frame, a sash, an insulating unit (e.g., one or more glass panels), a glass stop, an elongated frame insulating element slidably disposed on an inner surface of the frame, an elongated sash insulating element slidably disposed on an outer surface of the sash, and an elongated inner sash insulating element slidably disposed on an inner surface of the sash. The elongated frame insulating element, the elongated sash insulating element, and the elongated inner sash insulating element each define a plurality of chambers that extend substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of each element. These chambers reduce the size of the space between the frame and sash and the size of the space between the sash, the insulating unit, and the glass stop, which results in smaller convection currents within these spaces and a more thermally efficient window assembly.

Abstract: An IG unit includes a perimeter structure having a port, a first pane supported by the perimeter structure, a second pane supported by the perimeter structure opposite the first pane with an interior space defined between the first and second panes that is sealed and connected to the port, and a membrane valve assembly adapted to act as a self-sealing access to the port. The membrane valve assembly optionally includes a first sealant layer, a second membrane layer, and a third sealant layer, for example.

Abstract: A window includes a window frame adapted to be secured to a building, a window sash, and a plurality of sash clips disposed around the sash and fixedly securing the sash to the frame. Each of the sash clips preferably includes a base secured in fixed position to the window frame and a head received in the window sash. The window frame and the sash preferably have peripheral rails of extruded aluminum, plastic or fiber-reinforced resin construction, and the base and head of the sash clips are received in corresponding channels on the window frame and the window sash. The base and/or the head of the sash of each sash clip may include opposed flexible resilient spring legs received in a channel in the corresponding rail. The sash clips may be of plastic construction.

Abstract: A retention assembly is for retaining a panel in a window or a door. The assembly includes a surround, a frame, and a locking latch. The surround includes a first and a second pair of spaced segments which extend to define an opening. The frame includes a pair of first spaced sides and the panel is supported between the sides. The pair of first spaced sides are disposed between the first and second pair of segments. One of the first sides includes a floor and a catch which extends from the floor. The locking latch is movably supported by the surround and defines a retention recess for permitting locking engagement between the locking latch and the catch as the locking latch is moved relative to one of the first segments.

Abstract: Disclosed are frame members and mullions for a window frame that comprise a reinforcing member that is surrounded by an outer plastic layer. The outer plastic layer is held securely to the reinforcing member as a result of a waist banding effect that comprises an inward force created by the outer plastic layer as it cools and contracts around the reinforcing member. In addition, lobes are formed in the reinforcing member that assist in holding the outer plastic layer to the reinforcing member. Window inserts can be removed and replaced using adapters and removable brackets. Frame members and mullions can be built sufficiently strong to provide structural support. The frame can also be used to hold photovoltaic cells and protective coverings for photovoltaic cells. Structural members are also disclosed that have reinforcing members with apertures, debossing, scarification and/or indentations that secure the thermoplastic layer to the reinforcing member.

Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle window consisting of a transparent composite material, wherein the composite material comprises fibers and a matrix material such that the vehicle window is capable of withstanding structural loads occurring in the window region and can substantially provide the window function even in spite of damage to the vehicle window (damage-tolerant), the fibers and the matrix material being transparent and substantially having the same refractive index. The invention proposes vehicle windows which are damage-tolerant, load bearing, cost-saving, easy to handle and require less installation space than conventional vehicle windows.

Abstract: A window includes a window frame adapted to be secured to a building, a window sash, and a plurality of sash clips disposed around the sash and fixedly securing the sash to the frame. Each of the sash clips preferably includes a base secured in fixed position to the window frame and a head received in the window sash. The window frame and the sash preferably have peripheral rails of extruded aluminum, plastic or fiber-reinforced resin construction, and the base and head of the sash clips are received in corresponding channels on the window frame and the window sash. The base and/or the head of the sash of each sash clip may include opposed flexible resilient spring legs received in a channel in the corresponding rail. The sash clips may be of plastic construction.

Abstract: A blind frame for a window or door, the blind frame including a channel defined by the blind frame, the channel extending at least partially around the periphery of the blind frame and defining a space between the frame and an adjacent wall, the space being adapted and configured to receive an amount of concrete so as to affix the frame to the wall. The blind frame may include an accessory compartment including a housing defining an external surface adapted and configured to support an amount of concrete and embed said housing in said wall opening.

Abstract: A window system for installation in a structure is provided. The window system includes a front side that faces away from the structure and a back side that faces into the structure when the window system is installed in a structure. The window system further includes at least one window pane having a front side that faces away from the structure and a back side that faces into the structure when the window system is installed in a structure; at least one sash that surrounds the at least one window pane, wherein the sash has a front side that faces away from the structure and a back side that faces into the structure when the window system is installed in a structure; at least one window frame comprising at least one head, sill, and jamb; and at least one mounting base integral to the window.

Abstract: Frameless window which comprises a transparent pane, the lower edge of which is fixed in the slot of one or more holders by at least one layer of adhesive and is joined to the walls of the slot of the holders by at least two layers of a first adhesive applied close to the lateral ends of the slot, wherein at least one layer of a second adhesive is applied in the slot between the layers of the first adhesive. A process for manufacturing the window is also disclosed.

Abstract: A glass locking system of locking a glass panel within a base shoe having side walls, comprising a first tapered plate having a first end and a second end. The first plate is tapered such that the first end is thinner than the second end. A second tapered plate has a first end and a second end, the second plate being tapered such that the first end is thinner than the second end. The first and second plate are insertable between a side wall of the base shoe and a glass panel in overlapping relation. Moving the second tapered plate laterally towards the first plate serves to generate a compressive force on the glass panel, and moving the plates laterally apart serves to reduce the compressive force on the panel.

Abstract: A particular method includes installing a window assembly in a structure by coupling a window frame body of the window assembly to a first surface of an interior side of an outer skin of the structure. The method also includes coupling the window frame body to a second surface of an interior side of an inner skin of the structure. The method also includes coupling the window frame body to a portion of the structure between the outer skin and the inner skin.

Abstract: A window panel adapted for installation relative to a structure. The panel includes a single piece of generally transparent injection-molded material configured to span one or more openings in the structure. The panel has panel attachment inserts for attaching the panel relative to the structure. The inserts are embedded in the material alongside at least one edge of the panel. The panel has a curvature that essentially continues a curvature of the structure surrounding the opening(s) when the panel is installed relative to the structure. This panel can be single-pane and can provide an essentially continuous window along an aircraft fuselage.

Abstract: A glazing system for use with a barrier that has a panel with an opening is disclosed. An impact glazing, which covers the opening, includes an inner surface and an outer surface and a plurality of apertures around its periphery. A fastener having a fastener head passes through each corresponding aperture and into the panel. The glazing system also includes an elastically deformable washer positioned between each fastener head and the impact glazing. The glazing system may also include an inner bezel covering the periphery of the glazing on the inner surface and an outer bezel covering the periphery of the glazing on the outer surface, wherein the bezels are secured to the barrier and the glazing by a corresponding piece of adhesive tape.

Abstract: A corner key for joining ends of spacer sections to form a corner of a spacer frame of a multi-sheet unit includes an elongated body having a first end and an opposite second end and a cut out between the ends of the body. The body is bendable to decrease spacing of the cut out to form a corner of the spacer frame.

Abstract: A fire-rated light kit for a fire-resistant partition includes a track for holding a window pane in an aperture of the partition. The track includes a channel for capturing an edge of the window pane, and a flange. A first intumescent material is positioned under the track to seal between the track and the partition. A second intumescent layer is positioned on top of the track. A flammable molding material can be positioned over the flange of the track. In the event of heat or flame, the second intumescent layer expands and pushes the flammable trim away from the glass and/or partition.

Abstract: An expandable frame for a storm door mounted onto the header and door jamb in an entrance, a frame kit, and method of installation. The expandable frame includes an expandable header assembly, an expandable lock-side assembly and a hinge-side piece. The header assembly includes a frame mount and a header stop mounted onto the underside of the header, the hinge-side piece is mounted vertically against the door jamb on one side of the entry, and the lock-side assembly includes a lock-side stop and a frame mount mounted vertically onto the door jamb opposite the hinge section. A user can adjust the position of the header assembly and lock-side assembly to accommodate a door having smaller dimensions than the height and width of the entrance.

Abstract: A garage door window has an outside frame member which has an inside frame member connection. The inside frame member has a protrusion connecting with the inside frame member connection. There is also an outside retainer channel, an inside retainer channel and an outside retainer fitting within the outside retainer channel, with an inside retainer fitting with the inside retainer channel. The inside retainer is nondestructively removable relative the inside retainer channel by a snap fit. An outside track is formed on the outside frame member, between a central inside face of the outside frame member and the outside retainer. An inside track is formed on the outside frame member, between the outside retainer and the inside retainer. A screen is mounted on the outside track, a fixed window mounted on the outside track; and an active window is mounted on the inside track.

Abstract: A blast-resistant glazing system comprises a sheet of blast-resistant glazing material, such as laminated glass, and an elongate retaining member. The retaining member has two spaced opposed lips for receiving an edge region of the glazing sheet therebetween. Each one of the lips lies adjacent a respective one of the major surfaces of the sheet. The glazing sheet is provided with a respective outwardly extending projection on each major surface of the sheet. Each projection interlocks with a respective one of the lips so that withdrawal of the edge region of the sheet from between the lips is resisted by engagement between the projections and the lips.

Abstract: An exemplary window frame assembly includes a window frame and spring clips. The window frame includes a window frame body, and flanges extend from the window frame body. The spring clips are removably attachable to the flanges. Each flange may define at least one first locking member and each spring clip may define at least one second locking member configured to engage the first locking member. For example, the at least one first locking member may include saw tooth grooves and the at least one second locking member may include a pair of angled tabs. As another example, the at least one first locking member may include a pair of angled tabs and the at least one second locking member may include saw tooth grooves. Each spring clip may further define a release mechanism, such as a tab, that is configured to disengage the spring clip and the flange.

Abstract: In a door constructed of spaced apart skins mounted on a rectangular frame and reinforced with the core between the skins filled with a plastic foam, a window or door light frame system consists of a two part frame system with a window light permanently installed in one part of the system and the other part releasably adapted to register with the frame part with the window light installed during shipping and rotated when installed to bring the locking elements of the several parts into registry to permanently lock the frame system in an aperture formed in a door with stop means in the locking arrangements to prevent damage to the frame system or the door on which the frame system is installed from excessive compressive forces on the frame parts.

Abstract: A retention assembly is for retaining a panel in a window or a door. The assembly includes a surround, a frame, and a locking latch. The surround includes a first and a second pair of spaced segments which extend to define an opening. The frame includes a pair of first spaced sides and the panel is supported between the sides. The pair of first spaced sides are disposed between the first and second pair of segments. One of the first sides includes a floor and a catch which extends from the floor. The locking latch is movably supported by the surround and defines a retention recess for permitting locking engagement between the locking latch and the catch as the locking latch is moved relative to one of the first segments.

Abstract: The device which serves for the adjustable mounting of a panel (1) to a frame element (5) provided with a lower assembly profile (51) comprises an anchoring bolt (4) serving to hold the panel (1) which comprises anchoring pins (42) on both sides which are held in grooves which lie opposite each other within the assembly profile (51). The panel consists of two glass panels (1a, 1b) connected to each other which comprise at least two recesses (11a, 11b) corresponding to each other, in which preferably cylindrical, outer eccentric elements (2a, 2b) are held preferably in a clearance-free way, which comprise eccentrically arranged, preferably cylindrical openings (21a, 21b) which are orientated concentrically with each other after assembly and preferably hold the introduced shaft (31) of an inner eccentric element (3) in a clearance-free way, which shaft (31) comprises an eccentrically arranged, preferably cylindrical opening (311), in which the anchoring bolt (4) is held.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a glass barrier system including at least one post adapted to support at least one piece of glass above a base structure, such as a concrete slab or a masonry wall. The post is connected with a support member extending from the base structure. In one embodiment, aluminum posts are supported by steel members embedded into and extending from concrete so as to suspend the aluminum posts above the concrete. Some embodiments of the present invention also utilize a glazing bead to help hold the glass in place with respect to the posts. The glass barrier system can also include a rail connected with the glass.

Abstract: A joining structure, having a sleeve having a first end, a second end, and at least first side; at least one spacer; wherein the sleeve connects a first mullion from the first end of the sleeve and connects a second mullion from the second end of the sleeve; wherein the sleeve extends longitudinally within the first and the second mullions; wherein the at least one spacer extends longitudinally along the length of the at least first side of the sleeve and is situated between an external surface of the at least first side of the sleeve and an internal surface of at least first wall of the first mullion and an internal surface of at least first wall of the second mullion; and wherein the at least one spacer prevents direct mating between the at least first side of the sleeve and the at least first wall of the first mullion and the at least first wall of the second mullion.