Protective cover assembly for shielding windows during inclement weather conditions

Abstract

An interlocking bracket assembly for removably securing a protective covering over a window in a structure during inclement weather conditions. The assembly includes at least two Z-shaped bracket members having a first portion offset a predetermined distance from a second portion thereof, and a first fastener for mounting the first portion of each of the Z-shaped bracket members to such structure on opposite sides of such window. Also included are at least two Y-shaped bracket members having a first portion, a substantially parallel spaced second portion and a third portion. A second fastener mounts opposing sidewall portions of such covering between the first and second portions of each of the Y-shaped bracket members. The third portion of each of such Y-shaped bracket members is slidably inserted between a corresponding second portion of each of the Z-shaped bracket members and such structure for removably securing such covering over such window.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application is closely related to and claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 808,352 filed on May 25, 2006 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 816,026 filed on Jun. 23, 2006.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates, in general, to protective coverings that are mounted over windows in a structure to shield them from high winds and debris during inclement weather conditions such as a hurricane and, more particularly, the invention relates to a reinforced, transparent protective cover assembly that shields a window from high winds and debris during a hurricane and, still more particularly, the invention relates to an interlocking bracket assembly that mounts a protective covering over a window without requiring such protective covering to be directly secured to the structure around such window. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Protective coverings fastened over windows...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007] One aspect of the present invention provides an interlocking bracket assembly for removably securing a protective covering over a window in a structure that shields such window from at least one of damaging winds and flying debris during inclement weather conditions. The interlocking bracket assembly includes at least two Z-shaped bracket members made from a first predetermined material and having a first portion offset a predetermined distance from a second portion thereof. There is a first means for mounting the first portion of each of the Z-shaped bracket members to such structure on opposite sides of such window. Further included are at least two Y-shaped bracket members made from a second predetermined material and having each of a first portion, a substantially parallel spaced second portion forming a slot for placing opposing sidewall portions of such protective covering therebetween and a third portion. There is also a second means for mounting such opposing sidewall portions of such protective covering between the first and second portions of each of the Y-shaped bracket members. The third portion of each of such Y-shaped bracket members is slidably inserted between a corresponding one of the second portion of each of the Z-shaped bracket members and such structure for removably securing such protective covering over such window.

Problems solved by technology

It is a constant struggle to prepare homes and businesses in these areas for hurricane season in the months of June through November.

Therefore, for those people who remain in their homes during a hurricane, there are generally few ways to escape quickly in the event of fire or other emergency situation were to occur.

In addition, the mounted plywood and storm shutters do not allow any natural light into the home.

However, candles can be a fire hazard.

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