Impact resistant window

Abstract

A novel impact and blast resistant window is presented. A surface of a glazing pane has a durable transparent polymer film coated or adhered thereto. The surface of the window pane having the film is sealed to the sash by double sided tape. The resulting window produces an unexpected ability for the durable transparent polymer film to retain pieces of broken glass driven toward the interior of the building by a missile striking an exterior of the window, without the durable transparent polymer film pulling loose from the window sash.

Description

[0001]This application is a continuation in part of and claims priority of application Ser. No. 12 / 694,467, filed Jan. 27, 2010, which is a continuation in part and claims priority of application Ser. No. 12 / 217,425, filed Jul. 3, 2008, which is a continuation in part and claims priority of application Ser. No. 12 / 077,113, filed Mar. 17, 2008, which is a continuation in part and claims priority of application Ser. No. 12 / 070,687, filed Feb. 20, 2008, which is a continuation in part and claims priority of application Ser. No. 11 / 705,979, filed Feb. 13, 2007.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates to windows, and more particularly to windows that are impact resistant.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]Windows and glass panes in doors, panels and the like are a major source of unwanted heat loss and gain in a structure. With increased cost of fuel and energy, the moderation of unwanted energy losses on account of these structures has become of increasing importance.[000...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention is about a new kind of window that can resist impacts and blasts. The window has multiple panes, with a durable film attached to the outside of one of the panes. This film prevents pieces of glass or missiles from entering the structure. The window also has double-sided tape to keep the film secure and in place during an impact. The window passes applicable missile tests and provides additional security for the building and its occupants.

Problems solved by technology

Windows and glass panes in doors, panels and the like are a major source of unwanted heat loss and gain in a structure.

Although double glazing successfully reduces the energy transfer through a window, the use of two panes of glass substantially increases the weight of the window.

Increased weight in windows is normally unwanted because of the need for heavier frames and sashes, heavier mounting hardware, and more rigid sash materials.

Moreover, construction of double glazed windows is more complex than normal window construction, because the double glazed pane unit is constructed separately from the sash unit and then the sealed double glazed pane unit is mounted into the sash to assemble the insulated window.

The now shattered pane of glass separates from the sashes and enters the structure in the direction of travel of the missile, creating a hazard.

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