Shutter protection assembly and system

Abstract

A shutter system includes a guide rail having a plurality of openings extending along the guide rail, and a shutter assembly. The shutter assembly includes a lever and sprockets disposed on first and second ends of the lever. Each sprocket includes a plurality of teeth configured to engage the plurality of openings of the at least one rail. A sleeve is disposed over the rod and a shutter is disposed on the sleeve. Rotation of the at least one shutter assembly in a first direction causes the shutter to be placed in an open configuration and displacement of the at least one guide rail in a first linear direction, and rotation of the at least one shutter assembly in the second direction causes the shutter to be placed in the closed configuration and displacement of the at least one guide rail in the second linear direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to shutter assemblies and systems, and more particularly to a shutter protection assembly and system having integrated safety features. Background Art

[0002] Conventional shutter assemblies include a plurality of angled slats oriented horizontally on a frame. The shutter slats are rotatable about an axis so that the shutter slats can be opened or closed to allow or restrict light or airflow through an opening of a structure and / or to provide privacy to an interior space of the structure. The frame can be mounted on an interior or exterior surface of the structure and adjacent to the opening (such as a window, etc.), and the rotation of the shutter slats can be manually operated or motorized so that the shutter slats open and close together. Manually operated shutter assemblies can be mounted on the interior so that the shutter slats are accessible to a user, and motorized or otherwise automatically operated shutter assemblies can be mounted on an exterior surface adjacent to the opening.

[0003] When the shutter slats are rotated between the open position and the closed position, the front or rear end of the shutter slats may protrude beyond the frame and interfere with the window, thereby limiting the operation of the shutter assembly. To overcome this problem, additional clearance is required between the frame and the window. To prevent the shutter slats from protruding, the frame can be enlarged in depth, however space limitations may prevent the use of a deeper frame.

[0004] While the shutter assembly provides limited additional security and can prevent a person from entering through the opening, the mechanism by which the slats and shutter slats operate is relatively fragile and lightweight, at least in part due to the mechanism by which the shutter assembly rotates. In applications where security is a concern, a security bar may also be installed over the opening, thereby providing substantially greater protection. Conventional security bars include a fixed bar mounted to a frame, and the frame may be mounted to the opening. Mounting the shutter assembly over a security bar presents additional challenges and limitations due to the additional depth required to stack the shutter assembly over the security bar and due to potential interference between the shutter slats and the fixed bar. Therefore, a user may choose to install only one of the two, depending on the application.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for an improved shutter assembly having an integrated safety bar. Summary of the invention

[0006] The object of the present invention is to solve one or more of the above-mentioned technical problems outlined with respect to the prior art.

[0007] Another object of the present invention is to provide a shutter system with an integrated safety bar in a single frame, which shutter system allows manipulability of the shutter without interference between the shutter and the bar.

[0008] As demonstrated by the various exemplary embodiments discussed herein, the unique and unconventional combination of elements set forth herein overcomes technical challenges posed in shutter assemblies that otherwise lack robust safety features.

[0009] In an embodiment, a shutter system includes at least one slender body, the at least one slender body including a plurality of openings extending along the length of the slender body; and at least one shutter assembly, the at least one shutter assembly including: a rod having a first end and a second end; at least one sprocket, the at least one sprocket being arranged at the first end or the second end of the rod, the at least one sprocket including a plurality of teeth, the plurality of teeth being configured to engage with the plurality of openings of the at least one slender body; a sleeve, the sleeve being at least partially arranged on the rod; and a shutter, the shutter being arranged on the sleeve; rotation of the at least one shutter assembly in a first direction causes the shutter to be placed in an open configuration and displacement of the at least one slender body in a first linear direction; and rotation of the at least one shutter assembly in a second direction causes the shutter to be placed in a closed configuration and displacement of the at least one slender body in a second linear direction.

[0010] In an embodiment, at least one shutter assembly includes a plurality of shutter assemblies, and one of the rotation of at least one shutter assembly in a first direction or the displacement of at least one slender body in a first linear direction causes each corresponding shutter in the plurality of shutter assemblies to be placed in a corresponding open configuration, and one of the rotation of at least one shutter assembly in a second direction or the displacement of at least one slender body in a second linear direction causes each shutter plate in the plurality of shutters to be placed in a corresponding closed configuration.

[0011] In an embodiment, the at least one elongated body includes a first elongated body and a second elongated body, each of the first elongated body and the second elongated body including a plurality of openings extending along the length of each respective elongated body.

[0012] In an embodiment, at least one sprocket includes a first sprocket arranged at a first end of the rod and a second sprocket arranged at a second end of the rod, the first sprocket including a plurality of teeth configured to engage with a plurality of openings of the first slender body and the second sprocket including a plurality of teeth configured to engage with a plurality of openings of the second slender body.

[0013] In an embodiment, the rod has a first opening at the first end and a second opening at the second end.

[0014] In an embodiment, each of the first sprocket and the second sprocket includes a central opening, a first counterbore opening disposed at one side of the central opening, and a second counterbore opening disposed on an opposite side of the central opening.

[0015] In an embodiment, the central openings of the first sprocket and the second sprocket include corresponding at least one radially extending key extending from an inner surface between the first counterbore opening and the second counterbore opening.

[0016] In an embodiment, a diameter of the rod is larger than a diameter of a central opening of the first sprocket and the second sprocket and smaller than a diameter of the second counterbore of the first sprocket and the second sprocket.

[0017] In an embodiment, the first end of the rod is configured for insertion into the second counterbore of the first sprocket and the second end of the rod is configured for insertion into the second counterbore of the second sprocket.

[0018] In an embodiment, the shutter system further includes a first end cap disposed above the first sprocket.

[0019] In an embodiment, the shutter system further includes a second end cap disposed above the second sprocket.

[0020] In an embodiment, each of the first end cap and the second end cap includes a shaft having a first end, a middle portion, and a second end, the first end having a diameter greater than a diameter of the middle portion, and the middle portion having a diameter greater than a diameter of the second end.

[0021] In an embodiment, the diameter of the first end of the shaft of the first and second end caps is smaller than the diameter of the first counterbore opening of the first and second sprockets and larger than the diameter of the central opening of the first and second sprockets.

[0022] In an embodiment, the shaft of the first end cap is configured to be inserted through the first sprocket and the first opening of the rod member, so that the first end of the shaft is inserted into the first counterbore opening of the first sprocket and the second end and at least a portion of the middle portion of the shaft are inserted into the first opening of the rod member.

[0023] In an embodiment, the shaft of the second end cap is configured to be inserted through the second sprocket and the second opening of the rod member, so that the first end of the shaft is inserted into the first counterbore opening of the second sprocket and the second end and at least a portion of the middle portion of the shaft are inserted into the second opening of the rod member.

[0024] In an embodiment, each shaft of the first end cap and the second end cap includes at least one keyway, and at least one radially extending key is configured to be inserted into the at least one keyway.

[0025] In an embodiment, each of the first sprocket and the second sprocket includes at least one radially extending key extending from an inner peripheral surface of the second counterbore opening.

[0026] In an embodiment, the rod comprises at least one keyway extending along the length of the rod.

[0027] In an embodiment, at least one radially extending key extending from an inner peripheral surface of the respective first and second sprockets is configured for insertion into at least one keyway of the rod.

[0028] In an embodiment, the sleeve includes at least one keyway extending from an inner surface of the sleeve and along a length of the sleeve, the at least one keyway being configured for insertion into the at least one keyway of the rod.

[0029] In an embodiment, at least one of the elongated bodies comprises a chain, a guide rail, a belt or a worm drive.

[0030] In an embodiment, a shutter system includes at least one slender body, the at least one slender body including a plurality of openings extending along the length of the slender body; and a plurality of shutter assemblies, each of the plurality of shutter assemblies including: a corresponding rod member having a first end and a second end; a corresponding at least one sprocket, the corresponding at least one sprocket being arranged at the first end or the second end of the rod member, the at least one sprocket including a plurality of teeth, the plurality of teeth being configured to engage with the plurality of openings of the at least one slender body; a corresponding sleeve, the corresponding sleeve being at least partially arranged on the rod member; and a corresponding shutter, the corresponding shutter being arranged on the sleeve; rotation of one of the plurality of shutter assemblies in a first direction causes the corresponding shutter to be placed in an open configuration and displacement of at least one slender body in a first linear direction; and rotation of one of the plurality of shutter assemblies in a second direction causes the corresponding shutter to be placed in a closed configuration and displacement of at least one slender body in a second linear direction.

[0031] In an embodiment, a shutter system includes an inner frame, the inner frame including: at least one side wall, each side wall having at least one aperture positioned along the length of the at least one side wall; and at least one channel, the at least one channel extending along the length of the at least one side wall; at least one elongated body, the at least one elongated body disposed in the at least one channel of the inner frame, the at least one elongated body including a plurality of openings extending along the length of the elongated body; at least one shutter assembly, the at least one shutter assembly including: a rod having a first end and a second end; at least one sprocket, the at least one sprocket disposed at the first end or the second end of the rod, and at least one The sprocket includes a plurality of teeth configured to engage with a plurality of openings of at least one elongated body; a sleeve at least partially disposed on the rod; a shutter disposed on the sleeve; and at least one end cap extending through at least one opening of at least one side wall and disposed on each of at least one sprocket; rotation of at least one shutter assembly in a first direction causes the shutter to be placed in an open configuration and displacement of at least one elongated body in a first linear direction, and rotation of at least one shutter assembly in a second direction causes the shutter to be placed in a closed configuration and displacement of at least one elongated body in a second linear direction.

[0032] In an embodiment, at least one shutter assembly includes a plurality of shutter assemblies, wherein one of a rotation of at least one shutter assembly in a first direction and a displacement of at least one slender body in a first linear direction causes each corresponding shutter in the plurality of shutter assemblies to be placed in a corresponding open configuration, and one of a rotation of at least one shutter assembly in a second direction and a displacement of at least one slender body in a second linear direction causes each shutter plate in the plurality of shutters to be placed in a corresponding closed configuration.

[0033] In an embodiment, the at least one elongated body includes a first elongated body and a second elongated body, each of the first elongated body and the second elongated body including a plurality of openings extending along the length of each respective elongated body.

[0034] In an embodiment, at least one sprocket includes a first sprocket arranged at a first end of the rod and a second sprocket arranged at a second end of the rod, the first sprocket including a plurality of teeth configured to engage with a plurality of openings of the first slender body and the second sprocket including a plurality of teeth configured to engage with a plurality of openings of the second slender body.

[0035] In an embodiment, the rod has a first opening at the first end and a second opening at the second end.

[0036] In an embodiment, each of the first sprocket and the second sprocket includes a central opening, a first counterbore opening disposed at one side of the central opening, and a second counterbore opening disposed at an opposite side of the central opening.

[0037] In an embodiment, the central openings of the first and second sprockets include corresponding at least one radially extending key extending from an inner surface between the first counterbore opening and the second counterbore opening.

[0038] In an embodiment, the rod has a diameter greater than a diameter of a central opening of the first sprocket and the second sprocket and smaller than a diameter of the second counterbore of the first sprocket and the second sprocket.

[0039] In an embodiment, the first end of the rod is configured for insertion into the second counterbore of the first sprocket, and the second end of the rod is configured for insertion into the second counterbore of the second sprocket.

[0040] In an embodiment, the at least one end cap includes a first end cap disposed over the first sprocket and a second end cap disposed over the second sprocket.

[0041] In an embodiment, each of the first end cap and the second end cap includes a shaft having a first end, a middle portion, and a second end, the first end having a diameter greater than a diameter of the middle portion and the middle portion having a diameter greater than a diameter of the second end.

[0042] In an embodiment, the diameter of the first end of the shaft of the first and second end caps is smaller than the diameter of the first counterbore opening of the first and second sprockets and larger than the diameter of the central opening of the first and second sprockets.

[0043] In an embodiment, the shaft of the first end cap is configured to be inserted through the first opening of the first sprocket and the rod, so that the first end of the shaft is inserted into the first counterbore opening of the first sprocket and the second end and at least a portion of the middle portion of the shaft are inserted into the first opening of the rod.

[0044] In an embodiment, the shaft of the second end cap is configured to be inserted through the second opening of the second sprocket and the rod, so that the first end of the shaft is inserted into the first counterbore opening of the second sprocket and the second end of the shaft and at least a portion of the middle portion are inserted into the second opening of the rod.

[0045] In an embodiment, each shaft of the first end cap and the second end cap includes at least one keyway, and at least one radially extending key is configured to be inserted into the at least one keyway.

[0046] In an embodiment, each of the first sprocket and the second sprocket includes at least one radially extending key extending from an inner peripheral surface of the second counterbore opening.

[0047] In an embodiment, the rod comprises at least one keyway extending along the length of the rod.

[0048] In an embodiment, at least one radially extending key extending from the inner peripheral surface of the respective first and second sprockets is configured for insertion into the at least one keyway of the rod.

[0049] In an embodiment, the sleeve includes at least one keyway extending from an inner surface of the sleeve and along a length of the sleeve, the at least one keyway being configured for insertion into the at least one keyway of the rod.

[0050] In an embodiment, at least one of the elongated bodies comprises a chain, a guide rail, a belt or a worm drive.

[0051] In an embodiment, at least one of the elongated bodies comprises a T-shaped rail.

[0052] In an embodiment, the shutter assembly is configured for placement within an inner frame such that the at least one elongated body is displaced relative to the inner frame.

[0053] In an embodiment, at least one of the elongated bodies comprises a T-shaped rail.

[0054] In an embodiment, the shutter assembly is configured for placement within an inner frame such that the at least one elongated body is displaced relative to the inner frame.

[0055] In an embodiment, the inner frame includes a channel extending along a length of at least one side wall of the inner frame, wherein the elongated body is translatable within the channel in at least one of a first direction and a second direction.

[0056] In an embodiment, the inner frame comprises a first inner rail and a second inner rail, wherein the channel extends along the first inner rail.

[0057] In an embodiment, the at least one sprocket is disposed between the first inner crosspiece and the second inner crosspiece such that the first inner crosspiece and the second inner crosspiece prevent the at least one sprocket from disengaging from the elongated body.

[0058] In an embodiment, the at least one aperture of the at least one side wall comprises at least one inner aperture extending through an inner wall of the at least one side wall and at least one outer aperture extending through an outer wall of the at least one side wall, wherein a shaft of the at least one end cap extends through the at least one inner aperture.

[0059] In an embodiment, the diameter of at least one inner aperture is larger than the diameter of the shaft of at least one end cap, and the diameter of at least one inner aperture is smaller than the diameter of the end cap, and the diameter of at least one outer aperture is larger than the diameter of the end cap.

[0060] In an embodiment, wherein the inner frame is configured for placement within an outer frame attached to an opening of a structure, the outer frame includes a plurality of inwardly directed tabs.

[0061] In an embodiment, wherein at least one side wall of the inner frame comprises at least one slot extending from a first surface of the at least one side wall, the at least one slot being configured for engagement with the plurality of inwardly directed tabs.

[0062] In an embodiment, wherein at least one of the grooves has one of a T-shaped profile and an L-shaped profile.

[0063] In an embodiment, an uppermost slot of at least one slot has a vertical portion having an extended length relative to the length of at least one adjacent slot such that the inner frame engages at least one inner-directed tab of the outer frame, thereby enabling the inner frame to pivot about the uppermost slot.

[0064] In an embodiment, a middle groove of the at least one groove enables each of the at least one inwardly directed tab to be aligned with each of the at least one groove.

[0065] In an embodiment, a bottom-most slot of the at least one slot enables the inner frame to fully travel relative to the outer frame such that the inner frame 130 is removably locked with the outer frame.

[0066] In an embodiment, the inner frame comprises at least one cross beam having an aperture and the outer frame comprises at least one cross beam, wherein the aperture of the inner frame and the aperture of the outer frame are coaxially aligned.

[0067] In an embodiment, the inner frame further comprises a locking pin assembly having a pin configured to travel through the aperture of the inner frame and the aperture of the outer frame, thereby preventing movement of the inner frame relative to the other frame.

[0068] Other and further objects are explained hereinafter and more particularly described in the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0069] Figure 1A is a perspective view of a shutter system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0070] Figure 1B According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention Figure 1A Exploded view of the shutter system;

[0071] Figure 1C According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Figure 1A A cross-sectional view of the shutter system taken along the section line AA';

[0072] Figure 1D to Figure 1G is a side view of the shutter system;

[0073] Figure 1H and Fig. 1I is a cross-sectional view of a locking pin assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0074] Figure 2A is a perspective view of a side wall of an inner frame according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0075] Figure 2B According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of the side wall taken along the cross-sectional line BB';

[0076] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a shutter assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0077] Figure 4A is an exploded view of a shutter assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0078] Figure 4B is a detailed exploded view of a shutter assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0079] Figure 5A is a perspective view of a sprocket of a shutter assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0080] Figure 5B According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Figure 5A A cross-sectional view of the sprocket taken along the cross-sectional line CC';

[0081] Fig. 6A According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the shutter assembly taken along line D-D';

[0082] Figure 6B According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Figure 4A A cross-sectional view of the shutter assembly 200 taken along line EE'.

[0083] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a sidewall and shutter assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0084] Figure 8 According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Figure 7 The section line F-F' is taken Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of a shutter assembly;

[0085] Fig. 9is a perspective view of a shutter assembly in a partially open configuration according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0086] Fig.10 is a perspective view of a shutter assembly in a closed configuration according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0087] Fig.11 is a perspective view of a shutter assembly in an open configuration according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and

[0088] FIG. 12A to FIG. 12E A schematic diagram of a shutter assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is illustrated.

[0089] In the drawings, exemplary embodiments of the present invention are illustrated by way of example, and it should be expressly understood that the description and drawings are only for the purpose of illustrating exemplary embodiments and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0090] The following description is to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the present invention, and is provided in the context of specific applications and their requirements. Various modifications to the embodiments will be clear to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. In the following description, many details are described for the purpose of explanation. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the present invention may be practiced without using these specific details. In other cases, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form so as not to obscure the description of the present invention with unnecessary details. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but to conform to the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

[0091] The present invention generally relates to various technical improvements on shutter assemblies. Specifically, the present invention relates to a shutter protection assembly and system with integrated safety features. The shutter system disclosed herein includes an inner frame having at least one side wall, each side wall having at least one aperture positioned along the length of at least one side wall; at least one slot, the at least one slot extending along the length of at least one side wall; at least one elongated body, the at least one elongated body being arranged in the at least one slot of the inner frame, the at least one elongated body including a plurality of openings extending along the length of the elongated body; at least one shutter assembly, the shutter assembly including: a rod having a first end and a second end; at least one sprocket, the at least one sprocket being arranged at the first end or the second end of the rod, the at least one sprocket including a plurality of teeth, a plurality of teeth configured to engage with a plurality of openings of at least one elongated body; a sleeve, the sleeve being at least partially disposed over the rod; a shutter, the shutter being disposed on the sleeve; and at least one end cap, the at least one end cap extending through at least one aperture of at least one side wall and disposed over each of at least one sprocket; rotation of at least one shutter assembly in a first direction causing the shutter to be placed in an open configuration and displacement of at least one elongated body in a first linear direction, and rotation of at least one shutter assembly in a second direction causing the shutter to be placed in a closed configuration and displacement of at least one elongated body in a second linear direction.

[0092] Figure 1A is a perspective view of a shutter system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 1B is an exploded view of the shutter system 100 . Figure 2B is a cross-sectional view of the shutter system 100 taken along the cross-sectional line AA'. Figures 1A to 1C In an embodiment, the shutter system 100 includes an outer frame 110 and an inner frame 130. In an embodiment, the shutter system 100 is installed in an opening of a structure (such as a window). The inner frame 130 is configured to be placed within the outer frame 110, and the installed outer frame 110 and inner frame 130 are coplanar with the surface of the structure, thereby defining an xy plane. The depth of the outer frame 110 and the inner frame 130 extends in the yz plane defined by the thickness of the outer frame 110 or the inner frame 130.

[0093] As used herein, the term "vertical" refers to an orientation in the x-direction (in the xy plane), and the term "horizontal" refers to an orientation in the y-direction (in the xy plane). As used herein, the terms "inside", "outside", "distal", "proximal", "inside", and "outside" are relative position terms in the xy plane. As used herein, the terms "top" and "bottom" are relative position terms in the z-direction (in the xz or yz plane). It should be understood that the shutter system 100 can be in any orientation in the xyz plane, and the orientations shown in the accompanying drawings are exemplary only. By way of example and not limitation, the shutter system 100 can be installed above a window of a structure, or on a sloping or horizontal roof of a structure (such as a skylight, etc.).

[0094] The outer frame 110 includes opposing side walls 112 connected by at least one cross beam 114. In an embodiment, the opposing side walls 112 and the at least one cross beam 114 define a unitary body. In an embodiment, the opposing side walls 112 have an L-shaped profile defining an inner crosspiece 116 and a wall portion 118, and the at least one cross beam 114 is attached to the inner crosspiece 116. The wall portion 118 includes at least one inwardly directed tab 120.

[0095] The inner frame 130 includes a plurality of opposing side walls 132 connected by at least one cross beam 152, and the at least one cross beam 152 is disposed on the corresponding first surfaces 138 of the opposing side walls 132. In an embodiment, the opposing side walls 132 and the at least one cross beam 152 define a unitary body. In an embodiment, each of the at least one side wall 132 of the inner frame 130 includes at least one groove 154 extending from the first surface 138 of the at least one side wall 132, and the at least one groove 154 is configured to engage with at least one inner-directed tab 120 (e.g., Figure 1C In an embodiment, at least one slot 154 has one of a T-shaped profile or an L-shaped profile or any other suitable shape configured for engagement with at least one inwardly directed tab 120.

[0096] Figure 1D to Figure 1G 1 shows a side view of the shutter system 100. In operation, the inner frame 130 is oriented so that the uppermost inwardly oriented tab 120a of the outer frame 110 is oriented with the uppermost slot 154a of the inner frame 130, and the inner frame 130 is in Direction (such as by Figure 1D ), so that the uppermost groove 154a of the inner frame 130 engages with the innermost oriented tongue 120a of the uppermost portion of the outer frame 110. The inner frame 130 is then Direction (such as by Figure 1E ), so that the inner side-oriented tongue 120a of the uppermost portion of the outer frame 110 at least partially travels within the uppermost groove 154a of the inner frame 130. The inner frame 130 can be moved around the uppermost groove 154a of the inner frame 130 (as shown in FIG. Figure 1E and Figure 1F The pivot axis C' (as shown) is defined by Figure 1E and Figure 1F The inner frame 130 is pivoted about the pivot axis C' so that the inner frame 130 is located within the outer frame 110 and each of the at least one inwardly directed tongue 120 is at least partially engaged with each of the at least one groove 154, as shown in FIG. Figure 1F The inner frame 130 is advanced in the y-direction so that each of the at least one inwardly directed tongue 120 is fully engaged with each of the at least one groove 154, as shown. Figure 1G shown.

[0097] like Figure 1G As best shown in FIG. 1 , the uppermost slot 154a has a vertical portion 164 having a length that extends relative to the length of the adjacent at least one slot 154, so that the inner frame 130 engages at least one inwardly directed tab 120 of the outer frame 110. The uppermost slot 154a enables the inner frame 130 to pivot outwardly. The middle slots 154b enable each of the at least one inwardly directed tab 120 to align with each of the at least one slot 154. The bottommost slot 154c enables the inner frame 130 to fully travel in the y-direction so that the inner frame 130 is removably locked with the outer frame 110.

[0098] like Figure 1H and Fig. 1I As shown, in an embodiment, the inner frame 130 further includes a locking pin assembly 170 arranged above the aperture 153 of at least one beam 152. The aperture 153 of at least one beam 152 of the inner frame 130 is coaxial with the hole 115 of at least one beam 114 of the outer frame 110. In an embodiment, the locking pin assembly 170 includes a housing 172 and a pin 174 arranged in the housing 172. In an embodiment, the pin 174 is spring loaded. The pin 174 can travel in the z direction so that the alignment of these apertures (115, 153) causes the pin 174 to fall into the aperture 115 of at least one beam 114 of the outer frame 110 and thereby prevent the movement of the inner frame 130 in the y direction.

[0099] In an embodiment, the inner frame 130 is inserted into the outer frame 110 (in the z-direction) such that the inner frame 130 abuts the inner crosspiece 116 and the at least one inwardly directed tab 120 is at least partially inserted into the at least one slot 154. The inner frame 130 is removably locked with the outer frame by advancing the inner frame 130 in the y-direction such that the at least one inwardly directed tab 120 is fully inserted into the at least one slot 154.

[0100] Figure 2A is a perspective view of the side wall 132 of the inner frame 130, Figure 2B is a cross-sectional view of the side wall 132 taken along the cross-sectional line BB'. Figure 2A and Figure 2B In an embodiment, the side wall 132 is defined by an inner wall 134 and an outer wall 136 that are parallel to and integral with each other. In an embodiment, the inner wall 134 and the outer wall 136 form opposing wall portions of a square or rectangular structural tube. In an embodiment, a first inner rail 142 extends from a first surface 138, and a second inner rail 144 extends from a second surface 140 that is opposite to the first surface 138 and the first inner rail 142. In an embodiment, the first inner rail 142 includes a channel 146 that extends along the length of the side wall 132. In an embodiment, the channel 146 is a t-shaped channel. In an embodiment, an inner aperture 148 extends through the inner wall 134, and an outer aperture 150 extends through the outer wall 136. The inner aperture 148 is coaxial with the outer aperture 150, and the apertures (148, 150) define an axis of rotation XX' about which the shutter assembly 200 of FIG. 1 rotates. In an embodiment, the inner aperture 148 has a diameter D 1 , and the outer orifice 150 has a diameter D 2 In an embodiment, the diameter D 2 Larger than diameter D 1 In an embodiment, the diameter D 2 Basically equal to the diameter D 1 .

[0101] Figure 4A This is an exploded view of the shutter assembly. Figure 4B is a detailed exploded view of the shutter assembly. Figure 4A and Figure 4B , the shutter assembly 200 includes a latch rod 210 and a keyway 214, the rod 210 having a first end 212 and a second end (not shown), and the keyway 214 extends between the first end 212 and the second end (not shown). In an embodiment, the rod 210 further includes an opening 216 at the first end 212 and an opening (not shown) at the second end (not shown). Figure 4B As shown, in the embodiment shown, the opening 216 has a diameter D OThe shutter assembly 200 further includes at least one sprocket 220, one of each sprocket being disposed on the first end 212 and the second end, respectively.

[0102] Figure 5A is a perspective view of at least one sprocket 220, Figure 5B It is along Figure 5A A cross-sectional view of at least one sprocket 220 taken along the cross-sectional line CC'. FIG. 4A to FIG. 5B , at least one sprocket 220 includes a first end surface 222 and a second end surface 224 opposite to the first end surface 222. In an embodiment, a central opening 226 extends between the first end surface 224 and the second end surface 224. A plurality of teeth 240 are arranged on an outer circumferential surface 242 of at least one sprocket 220. Figure 5B As best shown in FIG. 2 , the first counterbore opening 228 is disposed on the first end surface 222 and the second counterbore opening 230 is disposed on the second end surface 224. The first counterbore opening 228 has a diameter D 1C , the second counterbore opening 230 has a diameter D 2C , and the central opening 226 has a diameter D CO In an embodiment, the central opening 226 , the first counterbore opening 228 , and the second counterbore opening 230 are coaxial with respect to the rotation axis XX′.

[0103] As in Figure 4B and Figure 5B As best shown in FIG. 1 , in an embodiment, at least one radially extending key 232 is disposed at an inner surface 234 between the first counterbore opening 228 and the second counterbore opening 230. In an embodiment, at least one radially extending key 236 extends from an inner peripheral surface 238 of the second counterbore opening 230. In an embodiment, the diameter D of the first counterbore opening 228 is 1C Greater than the diameter D of the central opening 226 CO , so that the rod interface surface 244 is formed. In an embodiment, the diameter D of the second counterbore opening 230 is 2C Greater than the diameter D of the central opening 226 CO , so that an end cap interface surface 246 is formed.

[0104] Return to reference Figure 4A and Figure 4B, the shutter assembly 200 further includes a sleeve 280 at least partially disposed over the rod 210. In an embodiment, the sleeve 280 has at least one key 282 extending from an inner surface 284 of the sleeve 280 and along a length of the sleeve 280, the at least one key 282 being configured to be inserted into at least one keyway 214 of the rod 210. Alternatively, the rod may have a key configured to be inserted into a keyway of the sleeve. In an embodiment, the sleeve 280 is cylindrical. In an embodiment, the sleeve 280 is semi-cylindrical and partially surrounds the rod 210. In an embodiment, the sleeve 280 further includes a slat mounting portion 286 extending tangentially from an outer surface 288 of the sleeve 280. As Figure 1A As best shown in FIG. 2 , the shutter slats 290 are arranged above the slat mounting portions 286 .

[0105] The shutter assembly 200 further includes at least one end cap 250 disposed above the at least one sprocket 220 and the rod 210. Figure 4A and Figure 4B As best shown in FIG. 1 , in an embodiment, each of the at least one end cap 250 includes a shaft 252 having a first end 254, a middle portion 256, and a second end 258. In an embodiment, the middle portion 256 of the shaft 252 includes at least one keyway 260.

[0106] Fig. 6A The diagram shows the Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the shutter assembly 200 taken along line D-D', Figure 6B Shown along Figure 4A The sectional view of the shutter assembly 200 is taken along the line EE'. Figure 4A , the first end 212 of the rod 210 is inserted into the second counterbore opening 228 of the at least one sprocket 220 so that the first end 212 abuts against the rod interface surface 244 of the at least one sprocket 220. In an embodiment, the diameter D of the rod 210 is B smaller than the diameter D of the second counterbore opening 228 2C In an embodiment, the diameter D of the rod 210 is B The rod 210 is sized and configured to form an interference fit with the second counterbore opening 228. In an embodiment, the rod 210 is screwed into the second counterbore opening 228 of the at least one sprocket 220. In an embodiment, at least one radially extending key 236 ( Figure 4B ) is configured to be inserted into at least one keyway 214 of the rod 210, so that the rod 210 and the at least one sprocket 220 rotate together around the rotation axis XX'.

[0107] In an embodiment, the first end 254 of the shaft 252 has a diameter D 1P , the middle portion 256 has a diameter D MP The second end 258 has a diameter D 2P In an embodiment, the diameter D of the first end portion 254 is 1P Greater than the diameter D of the middle portion 256 MP , and the diameter D of the middle portion 256 MP Greater than the diameter D of the second portion 258 2P In an embodiment, the diameter D of the first end portion 254 of the shaft 252 of the end cap 250 is 1P smaller than the diameter D of the first counterbore opening 230 of at least one sprocket 220 1C , and is larger than the diameter D of the central opening 226 of at least one sprocket 220 CO In an embodiment, the shaft 252 of the first end cap 250 is configured to be inserted through the at least one sprocket 220 and the opening 230 of the rod 210, such that the first end 254 of the shaft 252 is inserted into the first counterbore opening 230 of the first sprocket 220, and the second end 258 and at least a portion of the middle portion 256 of the shaft 252 are inserted into the first opening of the rod 210. In an embodiment, the shaft 252 of the end cap 250 is screwed into at least one of the rod 210 and the at least one sprocket 220. In an embodiment, the shaft 252 of the end cap 250 is configured to form an interference fit with at least one of the rod 210 and the at least one sprocket 220.

[0108] Figure 7 A perspective view of the side wall 132 of the inner frame 130 , at least one sprocket 220 , and the rod 210 of the shutter assembly 200 is illustrated. Figure 8 The diagram shows the Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the inner frame 130, at least one sprocket 220 and the rod 210 of the shutter assembly 200 taken along the cross-sectional line FF'. Figure 7 and Figure 8, at least one sprocket 220 of the shutter assembly 200 is disposed between the first inner crosspiece 142 and the second inner crosspiece 144, and the at least one sprocket 220 is positioned adjacent to and coaxial with the rotation axis XX' defined by the inner aperture 148 of the side wall 132. The elongated body 160 is disposed within the channel 146 of the side wall 132 such that the elongated body 160 is translatable within the channel 146 in the y-direction relative to the inner frame 130 in at least one of the first direction and the second direction. The elongated body 160 has a plurality of openings 162 extending along the length of the elongated body 160, which are configured to engage with the plurality of teeth 240 of the at least one sprocket 220. The first inner crosspiece 142 and the second inner crosspiece 144 prevent the at least one sprocket 220 from moving in the z-direction and disengaging from the elongated body 160.

[0109] Rotation of the at least one sprocket 220 about the rotation axis XX' causes the elongated body 160 to shift in a first direction and a second direction along the y-direction along the channel 146 due to engagement of the plurality of teeth 240 of the at least one sprocket 220 with the plurality of openings 162 of the elongated body. In an embodiment, the elongated body 160 includes a chain, a guide rail, a belt, or a worm drive, to name a few components. In an embodiment, the elongated body 160 includes a T-shaped guide rail that is configured to engage with the t-shaped channel, thereby preventing the elongated body 160 from moving in the z-direction.

[0110] like Figure 8 As best shown, the insertion of the shaft 252 of the end cap 250 through the inner aperture 148, the sprocket 220, and the rod 210 secures the shutter assembly 200 to the side wall 132. In operation, the rod 210 is inserted into the sprocket 220, and the sprocket 220 is positioned at the inner aperture 148. The end cap 250 is inserted through the outer aperture 150 and the inner aperture 158, so that the end cap 250 secures the shutter assembly 200 to the side wall 132. The diameter D of the inner aperture 148 of the side wall 132 is 1 is larger than the diameter D of the second end portion 258 of the shaft 252 of the end cap 250 2P , and the diameter D of the end cap is greater than the diameter D of the inner opening 148 of the side wall 132 1 .

[0111] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of the shutter assembly 200 in a partially open configuration, Fig.10 is a perspective view of the shutter assembly 200 in a closed configuration, Fig.11is a perspective view of the shutter assembly 200 in an open configuration. Engagement of the plurality of teeth of a sprocket (not shown) with the plurality of openings 162 of the elongated body 160 causes the sprocket (not shown) to rotate about the rotation axis XX' and the elongated body 160 to travel in the channel 146 of the side wall 132 in the y-direction. Rotation of the at least one shutter assembly 200 about the rotation axis XX' in a first direction causes the shutter slats 290 to be placed in the open configuration and displacement of the at least one elongated body 160 in a first linear direction. Rotation of the at least one shutter assembly 200 about the rotation axis XX' in a second direction causes the shutter slats 290 to be placed in the closed configuration and displacement of the at least one elongated body 160 in a second linear direction opposite to the first linear direction.

[0112] FIG. 12A to FIG. 12E FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of a rod and a shutter slat of a shutter assembly according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig. 12A As shown, the rod 310 includes a channel 312 configured to receive the shutter slats 390 within the channel 312. Fig. 12B As shown, the rod 410 includes a protrusion 412 extending tangentially from the outer surface of the rod 410. The protrusion 412 includes a channel 414 for receiving a shutter slat 416 in the channel 414. Fig. 12C As shown, the rod 510 includes a strip 512 extending tangentially from and integral with the outer surface of the rod 510. Fig.12D As shown, the rod 610 includes a key 612 extending from the outer surface of the rod 610. The snap sleeve 620 includes a shutter slat 622 that is integral with and extends from the outer surface of the snap sleeve 620. In an embodiment, the snap sleeve 620 further includes a keyway 624 configured to be inserted into the key 612 of the rod 610. Fig.12E As shown, the rod 710 includes a key 712 extending from an outer surface of the rod 710. The tube 720 includes a louver slat 722 integral with and extending from the outer surface of the tube 720. In an embodiment, the tube 720 further includes a keyway 724 configured to be inserted into the key 712 of the rod 710.

[0113] Although the present invention has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments summarized above, it is clear that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments of the present invention as set forth above are intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive. Various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0114] Now that the embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described in detail, various modifications and improvements thereto may become clear to those skilled in the art. Therefore, as described above, the exemplary embodiments of the present invention are intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive. The spirit and scope of the present invention will be broadly interpreted.

Claims

1. A shutter system, comprising: at least one elongated body, the at least one elongated body comprising a plurality of openings extending along a length of the elongated body; as well as, At least one shutter assembly, the at least one shutter assembly comprising: a rod having a first end and a second end; at least one sprocket disposed at the first end or the second end of the rod, the at least one sprocket comprising a plurality of teeth configured to engage the plurality of openings of the at least one elongated body; a sleeve disposed at least partially over the rod; and a shutter, the shutter being arranged on the sleeve; rotation of the at least one shutter assembly in a first direction causes the shutter to be placed in an open configuration and displacement of the at least one elongated body in a first linear direction, and Rotation of the at least one shutter assembly in a second direction causes the shutter to be placed in a closed configuration and displacement of the at least one elongated body in a second linear direction.

2. The shutter system according to claim 1, wherein: the at least one shutter assembly comprises a plurality of shutter assemblies, one of rotation of the at least one shutter assembly in the first direction or displacement of the at least one elongated body in the first linear direction causing each respective shutter of the plurality of shutter assemblies to be placed in a corresponding open configuration, and, One of rotation of the at least one shutter assembly in the second direction or displacement of the at least one elongated body in the second linear direction causes each shutter of the plurality of shutters to be placed in a corresponding closed configuration.

3. The shutter system according to claim 1, wherein: The at least one elongated body includes a first elongated body and a second elongated body, each of the first elongated body and the second elongated body including a plurality of openings extending along the length of each respective elongated body.

4. The shutter system according to claim 3, wherein: The at least one sprocket includes a first sprocket disposed at the first end of the rod and a second sprocket disposed at the second end of the rod, the first sprocket including a plurality of teeth, the plurality of teeth of the first sprocket being configured to engage with the plurality of openings of the first slender body, and the second sprocket including a plurality of teeth, the plurality of teeth of the second sprocket being configured to engage with the plurality of openings of the second slender body.

5. The shutter system according to claim 4, wherein: The rod has a first opening at the first end and a second opening at the second end.

6. The shutter system according to claim 5, wherein: Each of the first sprocket and the second sprocket includes a central opening, a first counterbore opening disposed at one side of the central opening, and a second counterbore opening disposed at an opposite side of the central opening.

7. The shutter system according to claim 6, wherein: The central openings of the first and second sprockets include corresponding at least one radially extending key extending from an inner surface between the first counterbore opening and the second counterbore opening.

8. The shutter system according to claim 7, wherein: The rod has a diameter greater than a diameter of the central openings of the first sprocket and the second sprocket and smaller than a diameter of the second counterbore of the first sprocket and the second sprocket.

9. The shutter system according to claim 8, wherein: The first end of the rod is configured for insertion into the second counterbore of the first sprocket, and the second end of the rod is configured for insertion into the second counterbore of the second sprocket.

10. The shutter system according to claim 9, wherein: The shutter system further includes a first end cap disposed on the first sprocket.

11. The shutter system according to claim 10, wherein: The shutter system further includes a second end cap disposed on the second sprocket.

12. The shutter system according to claim 11, wherein: Each of the first end cap and the second end cap includes a shaft having a first end portion, a middle portion, and a second end portion, the first end portion having a diameter greater than a diameter of the middle portion, and the middle portion having a diameter greater than a diameter of the second end portion.

13. The shutter system according to claim 12, wherein: The diameter of the first end of the shaft of the first and second end caps is smaller than the diameter of the first counterbore opening of the first and second sprockets and larger than the diameter of the center opening of the first and second sprockets.

14. The shutter system according to claim 13, wherein: The shaft of the first end cap is configured to be inserted through the first sprocket and the first opening of the rod member such that the first end of the shaft is inserted into the first counterbore opening of the first sprocket and such that the second end of the shaft and at least a portion of the intermediate portion are inserted into the first opening of the rod member.

15. The shutter system according to claim 14, wherein: The shaft of the second end cap is configured to be inserted through the second sprocket and the second opening of the rod member such that the first end of the shaft is inserted into the first counterbore opening of the second sprocket and such that the second end and at least a portion of the intermediate portion of the shaft are inserted into the second opening of the rod member.

16. The shutter system according to claim 14, wherein: Each shaft of the first end cap and the second end cap includes at least one keyway, and the at least one radially extending key is configured to be inserted into the at least one keyway.

17. The shutter system according to claim 6, wherein: Each of the first sprocket and the second sprocket includes at least one radially extending key extending from an inner peripheral surface of the second counterbore opening.

18. The shutter system according to claim 17, wherein: The rod includes at least one keyway extending along the length of the rod.

19. The shutter system according to claim 18, wherein: The at least one radially extending key extending from the inner peripheral surface of the respective first and second sprockets is configured for insertion into the at least one keyway of the rod.

20. The shutter system of claim 18, wherein: The sleeve includes at least one keyway extending from an inner surface of the sleeve and along a length of the sleeve, the at least one keyway of the sleeve being configured to be inserted into the at least one keyway of the rod.

21. The shutter system of claim 1, wherein: The at least one elongate body comprises a chain, rail, belt or worm drive.

22. The shutter system of claim 1, wherein: The at least one elongated body includes a T-shaped rail.

23. The shutter system of claim 1, wherein: The shutter assembly is configured for placement within a frame such that the at least one elongated body is displaced relative to the frame.

24. A shutter system, comprising: at least one elongated body, the at least one elongated body comprising a plurality of openings extending along a length of the elongated body; as well as, A plurality of shutter assemblies, each of the plurality of shutter assemblies comprising: a corresponding rod, the corresponding rod having a first end and a second end; a corresponding at least one sprocket, the corresponding at least one sprocket being disposed at the first end or the second end of the rod, the at least one sprocket comprising a plurality of teeth configured to engage with the plurality of openings of the at least one elongated body; a corresponding sleeve, the corresponding sleeve being at least partially disposed on the rod; and corresponding shutters, the corresponding shutter panels being arranged on the sleeve; rotation of one of the plurality of shutter assemblies in a first direction causes the corresponding shutter to be placed in an open configuration and displacement of the at least one elongated body in a first linear direction, and Rotation of one of the plurality of shutter assemblies in a second direction causes the corresponding shutter to be placed in a closed configuration and displacement of the at least one elongated body in a second linear direction.

25. A shutter system, comprising: An inner frame, the inner frame comprising: at least one side wall, each of the at least one side wall having at least one aperture positioned along a length of the at least one side wall; and, at least one channel extending along a length of the at least one side wall; at least one elongated body disposed in the at least one channel of the inner frame, the at least one elongated body comprising a plurality of openings extending along a length of the elongated body; At least one shutter assembly, the at least one shutter assembly comprising: a rod having a first end and a second end; at least one sprocket disposed at the first end or the second end of the rod, the at least one sprocket comprising a plurality of teeth configured to engage the plurality of openings of the at least one elongated body; a sleeve disposed at least partially over the rod; a shutter, the shutter plate being arranged on the sleeve; and at least one end cap extending through the at least one aperture of the at least one sidewall and disposed over each of the at least one sprocket; rotation of the at least one shutter assembly in a first direction causes the shutter to be placed in an open configuration and displacement of the at least one elongated body in a first linear direction, and Rotation of the at least one shutter assembly in a second direction causes the shutter to be placed in a closed configuration and displacement of the at least one elongated body in a second linear direction.

26. The shutter system of claim 25, wherein: The at least one shutter assembly comprises a plurality of shutter assemblies, wherein one of rotation of the at least one shutter assembly in the first direction and displacement of the at least one elongated body in the first linear direction causes each respective shutter of the plurality of shutter assemblies to be placed in a corresponding open configuration, and, One of rotation of the at least one shutter assembly in the second direction and displacement of the at least one elongated body in the second linear direction causes each shutter of the plurality of shutters to be placed in a corresponding closed configuration.

27. The shutter system of claim 25, wherein: The at least one elongated body includes a first elongated body and a second elongated body, each of the first elongated body and the second elongated body including a plurality of openings extending along the length of each respective elongated body.

28. The shutter system of claim 27, wherein: The at least one sprocket includes a first sprocket disposed at the first end of the rod and a second sprocket disposed at the second end of the rod, the first sprocket including a plurality of teeth, the plurality of teeth of the first sprocket being configured to engage with the plurality of openings of the first slender body, and the second sprocket including a plurality of teeth, the plurality of teeth of the second sprocket being configured to engage with the plurality of openings of the second slender body.

29. The shutter system of claim 28, wherein: The rod has a first opening at the first end and a second opening at the second end.

30. The shutter system of claim 29, wherein: Each of the first sprocket and the second sprocket includes a central opening, a first counterbore opening disposed at one side of the central opening, and a second counterbore opening disposed at an opposite side of the central opening.

31. The shutter system of claim 30, wherein: The central openings of the first and second sprockets include corresponding at least one radially extending key extending from an inner surface between the first counterbore opening and the second counterbore opening.

32. The shutter system of claim 31, wherein: The rod has a diameter greater than a diameter of the central openings of the first sprocket and the second sprocket and smaller than a diameter of the second counterbore of the first sprocket and the second sprocket.

33. The shutter system of claim 32, wherein: The first end of the rod is configured for insertion into the second counterbore of the first sprocket, and the second end of the rod is configured for insertion into the second counterbore of the second sprocket.

34. The shutter system of claim 33, wherein: The at least one end cap includes a first end cap disposed over the first sprocket and a second end cap disposed over the second sprocket.

35. The shutter system of claim 34, wherein: Each of the first end cap and the second end cap includes a shaft having a first end portion, a middle portion, and a second end portion, the first end portion having a diameter greater than a diameter of the middle portion, and the middle portion having a diameter greater than a diameter of the second end portion.

36. The shutter system of claim 35, wherein: The diameter of the first end of the shaft of the first and second end caps is smaller than the diameter of the first counterbore opening of the first and second sprockets and larger than the diameter of the center opening of the first and second sprockets.

37. The shutter system of claim 36, wherein: The shaft of the first end cap is configured to be inserted through the first sprocket and the first opening of the rod member such that the first end of the shaft is inserted into the first counterbore opening of the first sprocket and such that the second end of the shaft and at least a portion of the intermediate portion are inserted into the first opening of the rod member.

38. The shutter system of claim 37, wherein: The shaft of the second end cap is configured to be inserted through the second sprocket and the second opening of the rod member such that the first end of the shaft is inserted into the first counterbore opening of the second sprocket and such that the second end and at least a portion of the intermediate portion of the shaft are inserted into the second opening of the rod member.

39. The shutter system of claim 37, wherein: Each shaft of the first end cap and the second end cap includes at least one keyway, and the at least one radially extending key is configured to be inserted into the at least one keyway.

40. The shutter system of claim 30, wherein: Each of the first sprocket and the second sprocket includes at least one radially extending key extending from an inner peripheral surface of the second counterbore opening.

41. The shutter system of claim 40, wherein: The rod includes at least one keyway extending along the length of the rod.

42. The shutter system of claim 41, wherein: The at least one radially extending key extending from the inner peripheral surface of the respective first and second sprockets is configured for insertion into the at least one keyway of the rod.

43. The shutter system of claim 42, wherein: The sleeve includes at least one keyway extending from an inner surface of the sleeve and along a length of the sleeve, the at least one keyway of the sleeve being configured to be inserted into the at least one keyway of the rod.

44. The shutter system of claim 25, wherein: The at least one elongate body comprises a chain, rail, belt or worm drive.

45. The shutter system of claim 25, wherein: The at least one elongated body includes a T-shaped rail.

46. ​​The shutter system of claim 25, wherein: The shutter assembly is configured for placement within an inner frame such that the at least one elongated body is displaced relative to the inner frame.

47. The shutter system of claim 46, wherein: The inner frame includes a channel extending along a length of the at least one side wall of the inner frame, wherein the elongated body is translatable within the channel in at least one of the first direction and the second direction.

48. The shutter system of claim 47, wherein: The inner frame includes a first inner rail and a second inner rail, wherein the channel extends along the first inner rail.

49. The shutter system of claim 48, wherein: The at least one sprocket is disposed between the first inner crosspiece and the second inner crosspiece such that the first inner crosspiece and the second inner crosspiece prevent the at least one sprocket from disengaging from the elongated body.

50. The shutter system of claim 25, wherein: The at least one aperture of the at least one side wall comprises at least one inner aperture extending through an inner wall of the at least one side wall and at least one outer aperture extending through an outer wall of the at least one side wall, wherein a shaft of the at least one end cap extends through the at least one inner aperture.

51. The shutter system of claim 50, wherein: The at least one inner aperture has a diameter greater than a diameter of the shaft of the at least one end cap, and the at least one inner aperture has a diameter less than a diameter of the end cap, and the at least one outer aperture has a diameter greater than a diameter of the end cap.

52. The shutter system of claim 25, wherein: The inner frame is configured for placement within an outer frame that is attached to an opening in a structure, the outer frame including a plurality of inwardly directed tabs.

53. The shutter system of claim 52, wherein: The at least one side wall of the inner frame includes at least one slot extending from a first surface of the at least one side wall, the at least one slot being configured for engagement with the plurality of inwardly directed tabs.

54. The shutter system of claim 53, wherein: The at least one groove has one of a T-shaped profile and an L-shaped profile.

55. The shutter system of claim 54, wherein: The uppermost slot of the at least one slot has a vertical portion having an extending length relative to the length of an adjacent slot of the at least one slot so that the inner frame engages the at least one inner-directed tab of the outer frame so that the inner frame can pivot about the uppermost slot.

56. The shutter system of claim 55, wherein: A middle one of the at least one groove enables each of the at least one inwardly directed tab to be aligned with each of the at least one groove.

57. The shutter system of claim 55, wherein: A bottommost slot of the at least one slot enables full travel of the inner frame relative to the outer frame such that the inner frame is removably locked with the outer frame.

58. The shutter system of claim 25, wherein: The inner frame includes at least one beam having a hole, and the outer frame includes at least one beam, wherein the aperture of the inner frame and the aperture of the outer frame are coaxially aligned.

59. The shutter system of claim 58, wherein: The inner frame further includes a locking pin assembly having a pin configured to travel through the aperture of the inner frame and the aperture of the outer frame to prevent movement of the inner frame relative to the other frames.

Images