Enhanced protection and security shutter system

Abstract

A shutter system for covering an opening, such as a window or door, in a building. In one embodiment, the shutter system includes a housing and a shutter. The shutter is coupled to a torque tube within the housing and includes a plurality of slats, at least one of which comprises a non-opaque polycarbonate material for transmitting light and allowing viewing through the shutter. In one embodiment the shutter system further includes at least one storm bar for reinforcing the shutter. The storm bar is mounted adjacent the shutter and extends from the top end of the shutter to the bottom end of the shutter.

Description

FIELD[0001]The invention relates generally to systems for covering and securing openings within buildings such as windows or doors. More particularly, embodiments of the invention include shutter systems that protect building openings during intense periods of weather and / or secure building openings at other times.BACKGROUND[0002]Businesses and homes include one or more doors, and often are designed with one or more windows for the benefit and pleasure of building occupants. During times of severe weather, however, doors, windows, and other openings in a building provide points of vulnerability within an otherwise sound structure. Damaging winds, flying debris, and falling objects present a threat to people within the structure because they often damage or break windows and doors, strewing glass about, and hurtling projectiles through windows, doors, or other openings in the structure.[0003]Several solutions for addressing these concerns have various drawbacks. In preparation for se...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0013]In accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention, the shutter system comprises a plurality of panels wherein each of the panels comprises a slat along with a top hinge member and a bottom hinge member. The top and bottom hinge members of adjacent slats connect to form hinge assemblies that reinforce the slats and strengthen the shutter against breaking. In an exemplary embodiment, the top and bottom hinge members reinforce the slats in order to provide a wider shutter with longer slats. In addition, the hinge assemblies allow the panels to roll up around the torque tube within the housing and unwind.

[0027]According to yet another embodiment of the invention, the storm bars may be coupled together with one or more support bars. The support bars provide additional strength to the shutter system, while also allowing an easier installation of multiple storm bars. For example, the support bars may extend horizontally across the tops and bottoms of the storm bars, which allows all of the storm bars to be installed simultaneously. Alternatively the storm bar may be coupled to only one support bar.

Problems solved by technology

During times of severe weather, however, doors, windows, and other openings in a building provide points of vulnerability within an otherwise sound structure.

Damaging winds, flying debris, and falling objects present a threat to people within the structure because they often damage or break windows and doors, strewing glass about, and hurtling projectiles through windows, doors, or other openings in the structure.

It can be difficult to protect upper level windows and doors in this manner, usually requiring the assistance of, for example, ladders or scaffolding.

In addition, boards and sheets block valuable daylight from entering the interiors of buildings, which can be helpful when electricity is unavailable due to the storm.

While not letting light in, these materials also prevent occupants from looking out of the building, leaving them unable to assess the safety of their immediate surroundings.

Unfortunately, unwanted entry, such as in the case of theft, burglary, and more dangerous crimes, is a real issue for people.

Glass windows and breakable closure doors do not meet this need.

This kind of security creates several undesirable circumstances.

For example, it is no longer possible for shopkeepers or other businesspeople to show their merchandise to the passing public.

Unfortunately, it is not possible to use in-store advertising systems like narrowcasting, posters or banners when security means, e.g., closed shutters, cover the displayed information.

Further, the closed shutters or gates create an unfriendly atmosphere.

However, there does not exist any shutter system that fulfills the desire of the shopkeepers to show their merchandise and display product models even when the shop is closed.

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