Storm panel apparatus

Abstract

The present invention relates to a storm panel apparatus for double-hung style windows and a method for installing the same. In particular, the invention is a reusable, unbreakable, temporary replacement window panel apparatus that installs into the existing window frame from the inside of the dwelling. The present invention is resistant to shock and wind load, such as during hurricanes and tropical storms. Furthermore, the invention provides an economical replacement panel that completely removes the hazards of broken glass and provides superior protection from windborne debris and unauthorized entry from outside the window.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE To RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims priority from provisional application Ser. No. 60 / 556,547 filed Mar. 26, 2004, which is hereby incorporated entirely herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates to a storm panel apparatus for double-hung style windows and a method for installing the same. In particular, the invention is a reusable, unbreakable, temporary replacement window panel apparatus that installs into the existing window frame from the inside of the dwelling. BACKGROUND [0003] Violent storms cause significant personal injury and property damage each year. One of the main hazards during such storms is the danger presented by broken glass. High winds can propel glass shards through the air and cause serious personal injury. [0004] Furthermore, riots may also present the risk of personal injury and property damage. A broken window will allow intrusion of the elements or thieves. [0005] Many approaches to pre...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0016] It is further an object of the present invention to provide a temporary replacement window panel apparatus that is convenient to install and remove from inside the building, thus avoiding any natural or man-made hazards outside.

[0018] It is further an object of the present invention to provide a temporary replacement window panel apparatus that requires no tools to install or remove and is easily stored when not in use.

[0019] It is further an object of the present invention to provide a temporary replacement window panel apparatus that protects the window frame.

[0020] It is further an object of the present invention to provide a temporary replacement window panel apparatus that is unbreakable (i.e., break-resistant) and energy efficient.

[0021] It is further an object of the present invention to provide a system for easily replacing, within the existing window frame, conventional glass pane windows with storm window panels.

[0022] It is further an object of the present invention to provide a method for quickly interchanging conventional glass pane windows with temporary storm window panels from within a building structure.

Problems solved by technology

Violent storms cause significant personal injury and property damage each year.

One of the main hazards during such storms is the danger presented by broken glass.

High winds can propel glass shards through the air and cause serious personal injury.

Furthermore, riots may also present the risk of personal injury and property damage.

Plywood or other building material nailed over the windows offers limited protection.

First, tools are necessary to cut the material and nail it to the outside of the structure.

Such materials are often in short supply before a storm.

Second, nailing the material over the outside of a window located high above the ground the ground presents a personal safety risk, especially if the threatening event is already in progress.

Third, the large, flat, sheets of plywood have the potential to become life-threatening windborne projectiles in hurricane force winds.

One drawback to the Pena '605 patent, however, is that it requires the primary window to function.

In the event of a violent impact on the Pena device, there is a chance that the primary window will be broken, necessitating window replacement.

The mounting bars require a time consuming assembly of fasteners, including bolts and nuts, on the exterior of the window frame.

The Gottschalk '579 patent is designed to allow light penetration and ventilation, and thus is not likely to withstand the violent forces of hurricanes, tornadoes, or riots.

Furthermore, the Gottschalk '579 patent requires external mounting hardware and installation.

The Ahrens '164 patent, however, fails to prevent the breakage of the primary window, thus leaving the hazards presented by broken glass intact.

These enclosures will rust over time and become unsightly, especially if located near a saltwater environment.

The corrosion of the internal parts of the conventional storm window coverings will further render their use difficult, if not impossible.

Similarly, enclosures made of plastic will deteriorate under the ultraviolet rays of the sun and may break under the stress of high winds or vandalism.

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