Rainwater deflector device and system

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a rainwater deflector device designed to minimize the ingress of water into a sliding glass door track or similar structure. The deflector has an innovative geometry, securely attaches to the door track, creating a sealing pressure against the floor and door. A substantially flat sheet body comprises a bottom sealing portion and a top sealing surface, ensuring effective water transfer. The deflector may be a kit for custom assembly or part of a configurable system. Objects include reduction of water ingress in severe weather, ease of installation and removal, rigidity to retain shape, flexibility to provide sealing force, and ease of access for conventional door use. The rainwater deflector system provides a practical solution for various structures, and enhances protection and user convenience.

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application is a partial continuation of co - pending U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 994,231, filed on November 25, 2022, which is a partial continuation of co - pending U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 428,113, filed on August 3, 2021, which is a U.S. national stage entry under 35 U.S.C. 371 of pending PCT / US21 / 12414, filed on January 7, 2021, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention generally relates to storm mitigation devices, and more particularly, to an improved apparatus and related system that includes modular, compact, reusable devices and related systems that help reduce the intrusion of small debris and water through sliding glass door tracks under adverse weather conditions. Background Art

[0004] In high - rise apartments, townhouses, apartment buildings, and private residences, there is currently no practical and / or effective way to reduce the amount of water that intrudes through sliding glass doors and their tracks during adverse weather. Whether hurricane - rated or not, most sliding glass doors slide on tracks that are constructed with weep holes that allow accumulated water to drain out, but this is not the case during wind and rain. Under these adverse conditions, the weep holes do not function properly because the storm actually pushes rain water through the gap between the sliding glass door and the track. Currently, there is no practical way to reduce water intrusion under these conditions. Current offerings are difficult to install and / or difficult to store. Current methods are difficult to implement and deploy.

[0005] A known problem with sliding glass doors is that, due to their design to slide within tracks, water can accumulate in the tracks. Although sliding door tracks are typically designed with weep holes to allow water to drain to the exterior of the structure, the weep holes can become clogged with debris under adverse conditions, causing the tracks to fill with water and seep into the structure under the sliding door. In other cases, such as during a storm, rain water may be blown under the sliding glass door panel by strong winds.

[0006] It is not always possible to design a structure that allows a sliding glass door to be in a sufficient overhang position to avoid the influence of wind and rain. In other cases, using known water diversion means such as sandbags is neither convenient nor desirable because even small holes or cracks in the sandbags may fill the track with sand, resulting in an undesirable mess inside the track. Another disadvantage of using sandbags is that the sliding glass door cannot now be opened from the inside without breaking the protection provided by the sandbags. In addition, in high-rise situations where the sliding glass door leads to an enclosed balcony, it is impossible or at best impractical to seal the sliding glass door with sandbags and then return to the dwelling.

[0007] In the art, it is also known to use a wedge device to prevent water from entering under a sliding patio door by plugging the space between the bottom of the sliding door panel and the top of the sliding door track, as disclosed in the co-owned U.S. Patent No. 10,428,578, "Device for preventing flooding in sliding patio doors". However, this solution requires the use of a heavy, moldable material so that the weight of the device itself forms a sealing surface against the track and prevents the device from being blown away by strong winds.

[0008] Other solutions proposed in the prior art suffer from a "one-size-fits-most" design that has proven ineffective in actual use. Additionally, no comprehensive modular solution has been provided to achieve water intrusion mitigation from both the exterior and the interior of a sliding glass door system. The large number of installation scenarios has multiplied the variety and quantity of sliding glass doors. These types of doors typically have at least two doors (sliding and fixed), but an increasing number of multi-door and multi-panel installations are being used, with any number of active and stationary door panels, thicknesses, and tracks. In different installation scenarios, and indeed in different door models, there are multiple installation types. For example, in some cases, the track is located at or above the adjacent floor level, so the track structure is exposed above the floor surface. In other scenarios, the track is located below the floor surface, creating an aesthetically pleasing "thresholdless" installation. This presents other problems because now the track is located below the surface of the interior floor and there is no protruding structure available for attaching a water intrusion mitigation device. These "thresholdless" installations may also recess the track, leaving a large opening, or in other cases be covered by a track cover, which presents its own challenges because the track cover is not waterproof but now has a reduced-size gap that still requires attention to mitigate water intrusion. The solutions currently proposed in the prior art do not provide an adjustable or modular system that a user can adapt and configure as needed to create a tailored fit for their specific door system or installation scenario.

[0009] Accordingly, it is advantageous to have a device that provides the benefit of diverting water so that it does not accumulate in the track of a sliding glass door, while also being lightweight and easy to use. It is also advantageous to have a device that allows the sliding glass door to be opened and closed without having to go outside or remove the device. Additionally, it would be advantageous to have a device of this type that does not use sandbags or similar heavy but flexible devices that can disrupt the smooth functioning of the track. Finally, it is advantageous to have modular and easily configurable storm and debris mitigation devices, apparatuses, and systems in order to perform optimally in any specific installation scenario, providing a range of solutions for both the exterior and the interior.

[0010] Accordingly, there is a need for a lightweight and compact device that provides a physical barrier to divert water and wind away from the track of a sliding glass door during inclement weather and further provides a modular solution for customized installations for both the exterior and the interior. Summary of the Invention

[0011] Disclosed is a lightweight, compact, modular, and reusable device and associated system that provides a physical barrier that deflects water and wind-driven debris from the tracks of sliding glass doors or equivalent structures under adverse weather conditions. The disclosed device and associated system include a compact, reusable device and a modular system that reduce water intrusion under adverse weather conditions and include improvements to the devices and systems disclosed in co-owned and co-pending U.S. Patent Applications Nos. 17 / 428,113 and 17 / 994,231.

[0012] In an embodiment, a rain deflector apparatus is disclosed that provides a waterproof body surface adapted to reduce water intrusion into the space between the tracks of sliding glass doors (or similar structures). The rain deflector is preferably but not exclusively mounted by being firmly attached to the sliding glass door tracks, and the innovative geometry and features of the rain deflector maintain a sealing pressure against the floor or track and the sliding door itself, thereby reducing water intrusion into the tracks of the sliding glass doors (or similar structures) by deflecting water and debris downward and away from the door and track.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment, the rain deflector apparatus has a body that is a substantially flat sheet having a front face, a back face, and a thickness that defines a top edge, a bottom edge, a right edge, and a left edge. In an embodiment, the thickness can vary from the top edge to the bottom edge. A bottom seal portion extends from the bottom edge, substantially spanning from the right edge to the left edge, and preferably spanning the entire length of the body. A top seal surface portion is disposed adjacent to the top edge, substantially spanning from the right edge to the left edge, and preferably spanning the entire length of the body. Finally, one or more attachment mechanisms are disposed on the back face between the top seal surface portion and the bottom seal portion in a spaced-apart relationship.

[0014] Some other embodiments of the present invention include one or more rain deflector devices that are incorporated as part of a system for deflecting rainwater and storm-borne debris away from intrusion into the tracks of sliding glass doors or similar structures.

[0015] Some further embodiments of the present invention present the same main structures as the preferred embodiment, namely a body portion, a top seal portion, a bottom seal portion, and an attachment portion, assembled together as one or more configurable structures into a combined system of a modular system. In these embodiments, the present invention provides a modular and configurable solution to the existing problems.

[0016] Other embodiments of the rain diverter system also include structures configured to provide additional rain intrusion mitigation when installed inside a glass door or similar structure.

[0017] Other embodiments of the present invention include one or more of the structures, features, and components disclosed herein, assembled by an end user (such as but not limited to a homeowner) into a kit for customized and modular components.

[0018] One object of the present invention is to provide a practical and effective method for reducing the amount of water intruding through sliding glass doors in high-rise apartments, townhouses, apartment buildings, and private residences during severe weather events by reducing the Bernoulli effect, in which a large concentrated positive pressure pushes water through the outlet holes and the linear cavity formed by the operable space between the door leaf and the doorframe threshold.

[0019] Another object of the present invention is to provide a rain diverter device that is easy to install and remove on a sliding glass door assembly or similar structure.

[0020] Another object of the present invention is to provide a rain diverter device that has sufficient rigidity to maintain its shape and rain diversion characteristics, but also has sufficient flexibility to enable it to press against an adjacent mounting surface and, when fixed in place, provides a sealing force to press the rain diverter against the adjacent mounting surface.

[0021] Another object of the present invention is to provide a rain diverter device that is at least partially bendable, that is, flexible, such that the adjacent sliding glass door panel on which the rain diverter device is installed can be opened and closed without removing the rain diverter device.

[0022] Another object of the present invention is easy access, which means that even after the external device is installed in place, individuals can enter and exit through their sliding glass door as usual.

[0023] Another object of the present invention is to provide one or more rain diverter devices as part of a system for diverting rainwater from a sliding glass door or similar structure.

[0024] Other features that are considered to be characteristics of the present invention are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the preferred embodiments.

[0025] Tests and Results :

[0026] Tests performed and verified by independent engineers confirm that the present invention is "a unique solution designed to address the need for rain mitigation during storms. When installed according to the manufacturer's specifications, the system provides robust protection against water infiltration through the tracks of sliding glass doors. By enhancing the resilience of these structures, […] the system plays a crucial role in mitigating potential damage and economic losses caused by severe weather events."

[0027] These tests included various severe weather scenarios, with particular attention paid to evaluating the effectiveness of the installed system of the present invention in mitigating water intrusion compared to controlled tests without the system. The aim was to determine whether the use of the devices and systems of the present invention would significantly reduce water entry under the influence of sustained wind pressure. The scope of this study focused mainly on assessing the impact of positive wind pressure, aiming to provide valuable insights into the performance and potential advantages of such protective measures in enhancing the resilience of sliding doors in the face of extreme weather conditions.

[0028] The tests were performed in a facility equipped with 12 motors, an 8400 - horsepower fan bank, a flow management and a water - spraying system, forming a flow field 14 feet high by 20 feet wide, capable of conducting repeatable tests at wind speeds up to 157 miles per hour. The controlled environmental conditions for these tests required an applied precipitation rate of 4 inches per hour while the wind speed reached 100 - 157 miles per hour for a duration of 5 minutes. During the tests, it has been determined that the system of the present invention disclosed herein prevents 95% to 99% of all water from entering through the tracks of sliding glass doors.

[0029] The test results show that the devices and related systems of the present invention can very effectively reduce water intrusion and provide protection even under the most severe weather conditions.

[0030] Although the present invention is illustrated and described herein as implemented in devices and related systems for preventing wind - driven water and debris from intruding through sliding glass doors, the present invention should not be limited to the details shown in those embodiments, as various modifications and structural changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Additionally, although the present invention is described in the context of a sliding glass door system, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the size and configuration of the present invention can be tailored to suit other applications, such as but not limited to windows, sliding doors without glass, and other similar structures.

[0031] When read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, the structure and method of operation and installation of the present invention, as well as additional objects and advantages of the present invention, will be best understood from the following description of specific embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to the same or functionally similar elements throughout the views. The drawings are incorporated in and form a part of the specification, together with the following detailed description, to further illustrate various embodiments and to explain all of the principles and advantages in accordance with the present invention, wherein:

[0033] Figure 1 Shows an isometric rear view according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 The side view contour of the present invention as shown;

[0035] Figure 3 Shows Figure 1 The front view of the present invention as shown;

[0036] Figure 4 Shows Figure 1 The rear view of the present invention as shown;

[0037] Figure 5 Shows the present invention installed in a simplified representative environment Figure 1 The side view contour as shown;

[0038] Figure 6 Shows a side view contour according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 7 Shows a side view contour according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 8 Shows a side view contour of a deflector device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 9 Shows Figure 8 The rear isometric view of the deflector device;

[0042] Figure 10 Shows a side view contour of a sealing device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 11 Shows Figure 10 The rear isometric view of the sealing device;

[0044] Figure 12 Shows a side view contour of a sealing device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 13 Shows Figure 12 The rear isometric view of the sealing device;

[0046] Figure 14Shows a side view contour diagram of a sealing device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 15 Shows Figure 14 a rear view isometric diagram of the sealing device;

[0048] Figure 16 Shows a side view contour diagram of an attachment device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 17 Shows Figure 16 a top view isometric diagram of the attachment device;

[0050] Figure 18 Shows a side view contour diagram of an attachment device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 19 Shows Figure 18 a top view isometric diagram of the attachment device;

[0052] Figure 20 Shows a side view contour diagram of an adapter according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 21 Shows Figure 20 a top view isometric diagram of the attachment device;

[0054] Figure 22 Shows a side view isometric diagram of an end cap according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 23 Shows a side view of a system according to an embodiment of the present invention installed in a simplified representative environment;

[0056] Figure 24 Shows a side view contour diagram of a fixture according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0057] Figure 25 Shows Figure 24 a bottom view isometric diagram of the fixture;

[0058] Figure 26 Shows a side view contour diagram of a fixture according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0059] Figure 27 Shows Figure 26 a bottom view isometric diagram of the fixture;

[0060] Figure 28 Shows a top view isometric diagram of internal components installed in a representative environment according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0061] Figure 29 Is Figure 28 a detailed view;

[0062] Figure 30 is Figure 28 a detailed view of;

[0063] Figure 31 is an axonometric top view of a fixture according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0064] Figure 32 is Figure 31 a top view of;

[0065] Figure 33 is an axonometric top view of a fixture according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0066] Figure 34 is Figure 33 a top view of;

[0067] Figure 35 is an exploded axonometric view of a kit according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0068] Figure 36 is a table showing a parts list of the kit corresponding to Figure 35 ;

[0069] Figure 37 is a side profile view of a rainwater diverter that connects two diverter devices together using an adapter according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0070] Figure 38 is Figure 37 an axonometric view of;

[0071] Figure 39 is a contour view of an adapter according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0072] Figure 40 is Figure 39 an axonometric view of;

[0073] Figure 41 is an axonometric top view of system 4100 depicted as installed in a representative structure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0074] Figure 42 is Figure 41 a front view of;

[0075] Figure 43 is Figure 42 a detailed view of;

[0076] Figure 44 is Figure 43 a partial cross-sectional view of;

[0077] Figure 45 is an axonometric top view of a fixture according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0078] Figure 46 is a top isometric view of a system depicted as installed in a representative structure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0079] Figure 47 is Figure 46 a detailed view of;

[0080] Figure 48 is a top isometric view of a clamp according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0081] Figure 49 is Figure 48 a side profile view of;

[0082] Figure 50 is Figure 48 a front view of;

[0083] Figure 51 is a partial view showing the installation of a system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0084] Figure 52 is a top isometric view of a clamp according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0085] Figure 53 is Figure 52 a side profile view of;

[0086] Figure 54 is Figure 52 a front view of; and

[0087] Figure 55 is a partial view showing the installation of a system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] While the claimed invention may be modified to alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the drawings and their detailed description are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present invention. Detailed Description

[0089] Before describing in detail embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that in the drawings, the embodiments have been appropriately labeled with conventional reference numerals, and only those specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments of the present invention are shown, so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that are obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art who benefit from the description herein. Accordingly, it should be understood that common and well-known elements that are useful or necessary in commercially viable embodiments may not be described in order to cause less hindrance to these different embodiments.

[0090] Although embodiments may be disclosed as including several features, other embodiments of the invention may include fewer than all of these features. Thus, for example, the claims may relate to less than the entire group of features in the disclosed embodiments, and such claims will not include features other than those expressly set forth in the claims.

[0091] This disclosure is not a literal description of all embodiments of the invention. Moreover, this disclosure is not a list of features of the invention that must be present in all embodiments. Further, the various figures depict structures such as doors, glass, tracks, panels, thresholds, frames, and floors in order to illustrate the invention in a representative installation environment and context. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the description of these structures is for reference only, is not part of the invention, and is not intended to limit the scope of the claims in any way.

[0092] Non - restrictive Definitions

[0093] The title of this application and the titles of the sections provided in this application are for convenience only and should not be regarded as limiting this disclosure in any way.

[0094] In this specification and the appended claims and drawings, unless otherwise indicated, words and phrases have the meanings commonly ascribed to them in the relevant art. The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and are not intended to limit this disclosure.

[0095] The following non-limiting definitions are provided as a guide to interpreting the invention:

[0096] Unless otherwise expressly stated, the terms "a," "an," and "the" mean "one or more." As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to also include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0097] Unless otherwise expressly stated, the term "plural" means "two or more."

[0098] Unless otherwise expressly stated, the term "herein" means "in this application, including any content that may be incorporated by reference."

[0099] Unless otherwise expressly stated, when the phrase "at least one" modifies a plurality of things (e.g., a recited list of things), the phrase means any combination of one or more of those things. For example, the phrase "at least one of an appliance, a car, and a wheel" means (i) an appliance, (ii) a car, (iii) a wheel, (iv) an appliance and a car, (v) an appliance and a wheel, (vi) a car and a wheel, or (vii) an appliance, a car, and a wheel. When the phrase "at least one" modifies a plurality of things, the phrase does not mean "one of each" of the plurality of things.

[0100] Numerical terms such as "one", "two", etc. ... when used as cardinal numbers to indicate the quantity of something (e.g., one gadget, two gadgets), refer to the quantity represented by the numerical term, but do not mean at least that quantity represented by the numerical term. For example, "one gadget" does not mean "at least one gadget", and thus the phrase "one gadget" does not cover, for example, two gadgets.

[0101] Unless otherwise expressly stated, the phrase "based on" does not mean "based solely on". In other words, the phrase "based on" describes both "based solely on" and "based at least on". The phrase "based at least on" is equivalent to the phrase "based at least in part on".

[0102] Terms such as "such as" mean "for example", and thus do not limit the term or phrase it explains. For example, in the sentence "The computer sends data (such as instructions, data structures) over the Internet", the term "such as" explains that "instructions" are examples of "data" that the computer can send over the Internet, and also explains that "data structures" are also examples of "data" that the computer can send over the Internet. However, both "instructions" and "data structures" are only examples of "data", and other things besides "instructions" and "data structures" can also be "data".

[0103] Terms such as "respective" mean "viewed separately". Thus, if two or more things have "respective" characteristics, then each such thing has its own characteristic, and these characteristics can be different from each other, but do not have to be. For example, the phrase "each of the two machines has its respective function" means that the first such machine has one function and the second such machine also has one function. The function of the first machine may be the same as or different from the function of the second machine.

[0104] Terms such as "i.e." mean "that is", and thus limit the term or phrase it explains. For example, in the sentence "The computer sends data (i.e., instructions) over the Internet", the term "i.e." explains that "instructions" are the "data" that the computer sends over the Internet.

[0105] Any given numerical range shall include the integers and fractions within that range. For example, the range "1 to 10" should be interpreted as specifically including the integers (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4... 9) and non-integers (e.g., 1.1, 1.2... 1.9) between 1 and 10.

[0106] In cases where two or more terms or phrases are synonymous (e.g., due to an express statement that the terms or phrases are synonymous), an instance of one such term / phrase does not imply that an instance of another such term / phrase must have a different meaning. For example, when a claim equates the meaning of "including" with "including but not limited to", the mere use of the phrase "including but not limited to" does not imply that the term "including" means something other than "including but not limited to".

[0107] Unless otherwise expressly stated, the terms "including", "comprising" and their variants mean "including but not limited to". It will also be understood that when the term "comprises and / or"comprising" is used in this specification, it specifies the presence of the stated feature, integer, step, operation, element and / or component, but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and / or combinations thereof.

[0108] Unless otherwise expressly stated, the term "product" means any machine, manufacture and / or composition of matter.

[0109] Unless otherwise expressly stated, terms such as "invention" mean "one or more inventions disclosed in this application".

[0110] Unless otherwise expressly stated, the terms "an embodiment", "embodiment", "multiple embodiments", "the embodiment", "the multiple embodiments", "one or more embodiments", "some embodiments", "certain embodiments", "one embodiment", "another embodiment", etc. mean "one or more (but not all) embodiments of the disclosed invention".

[0111] Unless otherwise expressly stated, the term "variant of an invention" means an embodiment of that invention.

[0112] Unless otherwise expressly stated, when referring to "another embodiment" in the description of an embodiment, it does not mean that the embodiment so referred to is mutually exclusive with another embodiment (e.g., an embodiment described before the embodiment so referred to).

[0113] The term "seal" refers to a part of a device configured to prevent liquid (e.g., rainwater) or debris from penetrating from one side of the seal to the other. The effectiveness of a seal depends on compressibility (e.g., in the case of a spherical seal or a blade seal) and adhesiveness (in the case of a viscous seal). It is not meant herein to require a perfect seal or an airtight seal or even a perfect waterproof seal.

[0114] The term "severe weather conditions" (including grammatical equivalents) is used herein to describe natural or man-made environmental events in which water (or other liquid) and possibly debris (as defined below) accumulate and are driven by wind forces through a specific barrier of a structure (such as a sliding glass door on a track) into the interior of the structure, and such intrusion causes damage to the interior of the structure. The term "severe weather conditions" does not mean, in this document, the severity of any specific meteorological category (tropical storm, hurricane, etc.), but rather describes generally events that are sufficient to cause an undesired water intrusion. While the invention described may indeed have some effect on rising or stagnant water (such as in the case of flooding or pooling), this is not within the scope of the term "severe weather conditions" or equivalents used in this document.

[0115] The terms "rain" and "water" mean, in this document, to include any liquid driven by wind forces. This may include, but is not limited to, water, sea water, pool water, and rain water. While the invention described may indeed have some effect on rising or stagnant water (such as in the case of flooding or pooling), this is not within the scope of the terms "rain", "water" or equivalents used in this document. The use of the terms "rain", "water" or equivalents in the claims is for description and context and does not mean to limit the claims in any way.

[0116] The term "debris" refers to any solid (i.e., non-liquid) material that can clog a track, a drain hole, or an equivalent structure. The term "debris" as used in this document does not mean to include large windborne materials that pose a risk of adverse effects to the protected structure. For example, the invention disclosed herein is not intended to provide impact resistance against large flying debris that may break or otherwise damage a sliding glass door. Instead, it generally relates to dust, sand, leaves, or other similar materials that may accumulate in or around a track and clog a drain hole, thereby preventing normal drainage. Thus, one of ordinary skill in the art would not consider a shutter, an impact panel, or other similar structures as equivalent alternatives, or even within the same category or field as the present invention.

[0117] The term "extruded profile" or "profiled" is used herein to describe a part, component, or feature that is described substantially by a two-dimensional geometry projected onto a third dimension along a given locus. For example, a cylinder can be described herein as an extruded circle. The use of the terms "profiled", "extruded profile", or grammatical equivalents does not in any way limit the present invention to a particular manufacturing method. The "profile" or "profiled contour" herein can be, for example, machined, molded, cast, or forced through a die and cut to length as in conventional profile manufacturing methods. In cases where a particular figure or drawing shows only a two-dimensional contour or cross-section, this is merely for the sake of compactness of disclosure, since the "profiled" view is readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. It is not intended that such economical disclosure limit, disclaim, or waive the scope of the claims.

[0118] The term "adhesive" and its grammatical equivalents refer to any attachment or fastening structure by which attachment or fastening is achieved by applying an initial pressure to "activate" the adhesive. The holding strength of the adhesive will be selected according to the desired installation application and can range from repositionable to permanent. In the meaning of this term, "adhesive" includes hook-and-loop fasteners known in the art and equivalents. The adhesive can be a simple application of "glue" or can include a carrier, rigid or compressible foam, gasket, or other similar backing material.

[0119] The present invention can solve one or more of the problems and deficiencies of the above prior art. However, it is contemplated that the present invention may prove useful in solving other problems and deficiencies in many technical fields. Accordingly, the claimed invention should not be construed as limited to solving any particular problem or deficiency discussed herein. Although certain aspects of conventional techniques and methods in the relevant fields have been discussed to facilitate the disclosure of the present invention, the applicant in no way disclaims these technical aspects or methods, and it is contemplated that the claimed invention may incorporate one or more of the conventional technical aspects or methods discussed herein.

[0120] Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques have been omitted so as not to unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are merely for the purpose of facilitating an understanding of the manner in which the embodiments herein can be practiced and further enabling one of ordinary skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, these examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein. Specifically, the names, types, and values of the components shown in the exemplary schematic diagrams are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, but are presented merely as possible embodiments.

[0121] Rainwater Diverter Device 100

[0122] A creative rainwater diverter is disclosed. This rainwater diverter is an improvement over the prior art and adds new features to the inventions disclosed in commonly owned and co-pending U.S. Patent Applications 17 / 428,113 and 17 / 994,231. The rainwater diverter of the present invention can be used alone or in combination with multiple diverters as needed, corresponding to the number of panels in a sliding glass door, window, or other similar structure. Throughout the disclosure, the rainwater diverter of the present invention may also be referred to as a stationary diverter or a movable diverter. This nomenclature corresponds to a multi-panel sliding glass door, for example, one door slides (moves), while the other door is fixed (stationary). In other sliding glass door systems, there may be multiple "movable" doors, and the present disclosure contemplates all these different combinations and installation conditions.

[0123] The main objective of the present invention is to divert or prevent water and debris from accumulating in the track of a sliding glass door as much as possible, especially in stormy weather, and to reduce the entry of water into the structure through any gaps between the sliding door and its track. This is achieved through a combination of a physical barrier and one or more seals. In an embodiment, such a seal can be achieved using compression features (such as a spherical seal, a wiper seal (pressure seal, scraping seal), or a compressible gasket material), or by using a bonding surface (such as, but not limited to, an adhesive). In other embodiments, the seal is fully achieved by virtue of the geometric and structural relationships between the various components of the present invention, which press the structure together in a combined manner to form a seal.

[0124] Now generally referring to the drawings, especially Figures 1 - 5 , a preferred embodiment of a rainwater diverter device 100 according to the present invention is disclosed. The rainwater diverter 100 includes: a main body 110; a first portion 120 that provides a seal along the bottom of the device; a second portion 130 that provides a seal along the top of the device; and a third portion 140 that provides an attachment mechanism through which the device 100 is fixed relative to a sliding door track or a similar structure.

[0125] The main body 110 has a front face 111, a back face 112, and a thickness 113 that defines a top edge 114, a bottom edge 115 remote from the top edge 114, a right edge 116 substantially orthogonal to the top edge 114, a left edge 117 remote from the right edge 116, a front side 118 close to the front face 111, and a back side 119 close to the back face 112. The main body 110 provides a main surface through which the device 100 diverts and changes the direction of rain, wind, and debris.

[0126] The first part 120 of the body 110 is near the bottom edge 115 and is configured to form a first seal 121 against the first adjacent structure 1. In a typical installation, the first adjacent structure 1 is the floor outside the sliding glass door track.

[0127] The second part 130 of the body 110 is near the top edge 114 and is configured to form a second seal 131 against the second adjacent structure 2. In a typical installation, the second adjacent structure 2 is the sliding glass door panel.

[0128] The third part 140 of the body 110 is near the back 112 and is configured to removably attach the device 100 to the third adjacent structure 3 such that when the device 100 is attached to the third adjacent structure 3, the first seal 121 and the second seal 131 engage to prevent rainwater R and debris D from traveling from the front side 118 to the back side 119 (see Figure 5 ). In a typical installation, the third adjacent structure 3 is the track in which the sliding glass door panel is located.

[0129] The rainwater diverter 100 is preferably made of a waterproof and weather-resistant material that can withstand the outdoor environment in which the present invention is disclosed to operate. By way of example and not limitation, the rainwater diverter 100 can be made of ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), santoprene, neoprene, silicone, TPE, PE, PP, or other suitable materials.

[0130] In an additional embodiment, the rainwater diverter 100 can be made of biodegradable, recyclable, reusable, or disposable materials.

[0131] In an embodiment, the material for the rainwater diverter 100 can have sufficient rigidity in height so as not to bend under its own weight and also provide a degree of flexibility along its length. In other embodiments, the relative rigidity or flexibility of the device is achieved through the geometry of the parts or added component parts.

[0132] In an embodiment, the rainwater diverter 100 is a one-piece structure with the same material.

[0133] In some other embodiments, the rainwater diverter 100 can be manufactured as a composite structure of different materials. Preferably, this will be achieved along the division of one or more of the various functional structures described above: the body, the top part and seal, the bottom part and seal, and the attachment part.

[0134] In other embodiments, one or more of the various functional structures of the rainwater diverter 100 can be manufactured as separate parts or sub-assemblies and assembled together to form the rainwater diverter 100.

[0135] Reference Figure 5 Figure 5 , a preferred embodiment of the rainwater diverter 100 is configured such that the third portion 140 protrudes from the back relative to the body at an angle A so that, once installed, the body is oriented at an angle A' relative to the vertical direction, such that any rainwater R or debris D falling on the front face will slide downward along the front face away from the top edge.

[0136] Embodiments of the present invention include a sealing feature or component integral with the first portion, and the sealing feature or component is selected from the group consisting of a blade seal, a wiper seal, a flat compression seal (such as but not limited to a gasket), and an adhesive seal.

[0137] Embodiments of the present invention include a sealing feature or component integral with the second portion, and the sealing feature or component is selected from the group consisting of a blade seal, a wiper seal, a flat compression seal (such as but not limited to a gasket), and an adhesive seal.

[0138] Embodiments of the present invention include an attachment structure feature or component integral with the third portion, and the attachment structure feature or component is selected from the group consisting of a clip, a clamp, and an adhesive.

[0139] In other embodiments, at least one of the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion is adapted to pivot relative to the body. This can be achieved by a pivotable fixed attachment between separable components (such as in the case where the rainwater diverter consists of multiple separable components), or by a geometric or material construction that allows one portion to pivot relative to another portion (such as in the case of an integral structure).

[0140] Modular Rainwater Diverter System 200

[0141] As described above, in some embodiments, it is advantageous to manufacture one or more of the various functional features of the rainwater diverter as separate parts while still remaining within the scope of the present invention.

[0142] Now refer to Figures 6 - 22 , an exemplary embodiment of such a modular rainwater diverter system 200 and exemplary component parts and accessories are disclosed. As Figure 6 and Figure 7 shown, the exemplary system includes a diverter device 210, a top seal device 220, a bottom seal device 230, and one or more attachment devices 240.

[0143] The system components are configured to have features that facilitate the secure assembly and connection of one component to another. Preferably, as shown, these components are securely attached during use and can be easily separated from each other after use. For example, as Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown in the embodiments depicted, the rainwater diverter 210 is configured with a plurality of protrusions 211 or "attachment tracks" having an offset cylindrical profile (substantially circular). Each of these protrusions 211 is configured to mate in an insertion relationship with mating features on one or more other components, such as the top seal 220, the bottom seal 230, and one or more attachment devices 240. In other embodiments, the protrusions 211 may also be configured to receive the attachment of one or more adapters or other accessories, as described herein.

[0144] In an embodiment, the system 200 will always include at least one diverter device 210 as the main component for attachment to other components. In a non-limiting embodiment, the diverter device includes one or more attachment tracks to which one or more components (or "accessories") may be attached.

[0145] As discussed, compared to the embodiments of the rainwater diverter 100, each of the top seal 220 and the bottom seal 230 may include different types of sealing components, which may be related to the specific requirements of the installation. By way of example and not limitation, these seal types may be spherical seals (as shown for the top seal 220 of Figure 6 and the bottom seal 230 of Figure 7 ), blade seals (as shown for the bottom seal 230 of Figure 6 ), compression (e.g., gasket) seals, or adhesive seals (as shown for the top seal 220 of Figure 7 ).

[0146] Furthermore, according to an embodiment, the length of the attachment mechanism 240 may be shorter than that of the rainwater diverter 210 (e.g., see Figure 17 and Figure 19 ). In this way, a plurality of attachment mechanisms 240 may be assembled in an insertion relationship with one or more protrusions 211 along the length such that they can slide and be positioned along the protrusions 211, which may be most desirable for ease and security of installation.

[0147] Diverter device:

[0148] As shown in the figures, the diverter device is primarily a flat sheet structure and is structurally related to the body of the rainwater diverter 100. In an embodiment, as shown in Figures 8 - 9 , the diverter device 800 according to the present invention has a body 210 having a front face, a back face, and a thickness between the top face and the back face, the thickness defining a top edge, a bottom edge remote from the top edge, a right edge substantially orthogonal to the top edge, a left edge remote from the right edge, a front side adjacent to the front face, and a back side adjacent to the back face (as shown and described with respect to the rainwater diverter 100).

[0149] In Figure 8 and Figure 9 exemplary embodiments, a plurality of attachment tracks 211 are shown. In the illustrated non - limiting embodiments, the cross - sectional profile of the attachment track is substantially cylindrical and is configured to mate in an insertion relationship with a mating member that includes a partial or substantially annular feature having an inner diameter that is substantially similar to the outer diameter of the cylindrical cross - sectional profile. Although the cylindrical profile provides certain mechanical advantages (such as allowing the attached component to pivot coaxially thereabout), any shape of the cross - sectional profile of these attachment tracks that allows a component to be attached thereto is considered to fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0150] Herein, a top protrusion extends distally from the top edge and extends from the right edge to the left edge along the length of the deflector device. The top protrusion has a cross - sectional profile configured to be assembled with a separating component.

[0151] Similarly, a bottom protrusion extends distally from the bottom edge and extends from the right edge to the left edge along the length of the deflector device. The bottom protrusion has a cross - sectional profile configured to be assembled with a separating component.

[0152] Finally, one or more back protrusions extend distally from the back. The back protrusions extend from the right edge to the left edge along the length of the deflector device and have a spaced relationship between the top edge and the bottom edge. The one or more back protrusions also have a cross - sectional profile configured to mate with a separating component.

[0153] Although the specific embodiments shown and described herein depict a deflector device with all various protrusions having the same protrusion profile, this is for the compactness of the disclosure, and it should be understood that any combination of one or more different protrusion profiles is considered to fall within the scope and meaning of the present invention.

[0154] Thus, the deflector device is the backbone of a modular rainwater deflector system because the top protrusion, bottom protrusion, and back protrusions form attachment tracks onto which various combinations of attachments can be fitted. Particularly in the case of the back protrusions, since the tracks extend along the length of the deflector device, as will be discussed below, components shorter in length than the back protrusions can slide along the length of the tracks to optimize the position and number of attachment mechanisms or other components used herein. In this way, the system is not only modular but also adaptable to different installation conditions.

[0155] Sealing device:

[0156] Generally, a sealing device is disclosed that can selectively function as a top sealing device or a bottom sealing device depending on which side of the deflector device the sealing device is attached to. In this section, the "sealing device" and its various features and components are interchangeably used as a "top" sealing device or a "bottom" sealing device.

[0157] The sealing device includes a portion configured to attach the sealing device to the deflector device and another portion providing a "sealing" structure. Figures 10 - 15 Non-limiting examples of the sealing device are shown. While it is conceivable that the sealing device could be manufactured as a single part, for modularity purposes, it is also advantageous to manufacture the sealing device as an assembly of multiple parts and still fall within the scope of the present invention. The length of the sealing device is preferably configured to coextend with the length of the deflector device. In this way, a continuous sealing surface can be employed over the entire length of the deflector device. However, to be consistent with the modular and configurable aspects of the present invention, the sealing device can have a length different (either longer or shorter) from that of the deflector device and still fall within the scope of the present invention. For example, in a particular installation, it may be desirable to use multiple shorter sealing device components that are continuously assembled to attachment tracks.

[0158] The sealing device includes an attachment portion AP and a sealing portion SP.

[0159] Figures 10 - 11 A sealing device 1100 with an attachment portion AP and an adhesive seal SP is depicted. In an embodiment, these figures also represent a sealing device having an attachment portion and a compression seal or a gasket seal.

[0160] Figures 12 - 13 A sealing device 1200 with an attachment portion AP and a wiper seal or a blade seal SP is depicted. In an embodiment, the seal can include multiple "blades" having the same or different lengths.

[0161] Figures 14 - 15 A sealing device 1400 with an attachment portion AP and a spherical seal SP is depicted. Although the spherical seal described herein has a circular cross-section, other cross-sectional profiles are also considered to fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0162] Attachment means:

[0163] As described with respect to the rain deflector device 100, Figure 6 and Figure 7The illustrated embodiment includes an attachment portion depicted as attachment device 240. Attachment device 240 includes portion AP configured to attach to one of the protrusions 211 of deflector device 210. Contrary to the sealing device, the attachment device is preferably attached to the protrusion 211 located on the back side of deflector device 210. Another portion of the attachment device is portion SA which is configured to be firmly attached to a track, door, frame, or other similar structure.

[0164] As previously mentioned, the attachment device can be a clamp, clip, adhesive, or a combination thereof.

[0165] Figures 16 - 19 An example of the attachment device is shown, which has a first portion AP and an attachment portion SA remote from the first portion. The first portion AP is configured to receive the protrusion 211 in an insertion relationship, and the attachment portion SA is configured to be firmly attached to a track, door, glass, frame, or similar structure.

[0166] Figures 16 - 17 The example shown in [ID] describes the use of a thumb screw, but other equivalent mechanisms known in the art as well as clips and clamping mechanisms can also be employed.

[0167] Figures 18 - 19 The example shown in [ID] depicts the use of adhesive SA, but other equivalent bonding mechanisms (as described in the definition section above) can also be employed.

[0168] Although it is advantageous for the (top and / or bottom) sealing device to have the same length as the deflector device so as to provide a continuous sealing surface along the length of the rain deflector system, the length of the attachment device is preferably shorter than that of the deflector device (as Figures 16 - 19 shown). In this way, multiple attachment devices can be assembled onto the deflector device and positioned along its length as needed to facilitate easy and firm attachment to a mounting structure (such as a sliding door track section).

[0169] Adapter:

[0170] Figures 20 - 21 An exemplary adapter 250 is shown. The adapter has two ends spaced apart from each other and separated by a certain length. One end 251 is configured to match the attachment track profile of the deflector device, and the other end 252 is configured to match the attachment portion of various components.

[0171] As Figure 7As shown, embodiments of the present invention also include one or more such adapters 250 configured to be attached between, for example, a deflector device 210 and a component (such as a top seal device 220) to extend the length of the deflector device and / or the attachment angle of the attached component. By using different geometries and profiles for these adapters, different lengths and / or attachment angles can be achieved.

[0172] Figures 37 - 40 Another type of adapter 3900 for creating multiple deflector systems 3700 is depicted. The adapter 3900 also has two ends that are spaced apart from each other and separated by a certain length. However, the adapter is configured to connect one deflector device 210 to another deflector device 210. The core features of the adapter 3900 are a central body 3910 and two concave receivers 3920. The concave receivers 3920 are configured to receive the deflector device protrusion 211 in an insertion relationship.

[0173] In an embodiment, for example Figure 39 In the embodiment shown, the adapter 3900 may also have, for example, one or more additional optional concave receivers 3921 to increase the rigidity between components. Additionally, the adapter 3900 may further include one or more optional additional convex protrusions 3930 that may be adapted to receive another attachment.

[0174] By using this type of adapter to connect one deflector device to another, the overall height of the entire system can be increased. Additionally, the additional height provided by connecting one, two, or more deflector devices allows for mounting with a wide track, thereby allowing a greater horizontal distance between the top and bottom of the system.

[0175] End cap:

[0176] Figure 22 An exemplary end cap 2200 is depicted that is attached to the deflector device by fastening to the end or within the end of one or more attachment tracks. The end cap has an attachment portion 2210 and a cap portion 2220 configured such that when assembled to the deflector device, it provides a cover for the side of the device between the device and a door or similar structure.

[0177] Multi-panel system 1000 and internal water mitigation components:

[0178] As disclosed in this document and in the parent case cited above, embodiments of the present invention include a system 1000 having a plurality of rain diverters. For example, in a facility having double-panel sliding glass doors, one glass panel is stationary while the other is movable (in a sliding relationship with the stationary panel). The system 1000 according to the present invention includes one or more rain diverter devices 1010 (which can be any of the embodiments disclosed herein, including but not limited to the rain diverter device 100, the modular rain diverter system 200, or any combination of the embodiments disclosed herein or incorporated by reference), each rain diverter device 1010 being mounted externally relative to each at least one stationary glass panel and each at least one movable glass panel, whereby the system is capable of effectively diverting rainwater and debris so as not to pass from the exterior to the interior of the sliding glass door panels.

[0179] Embodiments of the present invention include internal water mitigation components. As disclosed and discussed herein, these various internal water mitigation components serve to mitigate the intrusion of water through the sliding glass door panels and tracks, similar to the rain diverters already discussed. However, while the rain diverters are mounted externally, these internal water mitigation components are configured to be preferably mounted internally and primarily serve to mitigate the further intrusion of any water that may have passed through the rain diverters. According to embodiments of the present invention, although capable of being used alone, a system including one or more rain diverters mounted externally in combination with one or more internal rain mitigation components mounted internally provides the most complete solution for mitigating water intrusion.

[0180] Now referring Figure 23 , a simplified representation of the system 1000 is shown, where the rain diverters 1010 are mounted externally to the sliding glass door and one or more internal water mitigation components are mounted internally to the sliding glass door. The one or more internal water mitigation components can be selected from the group consisting essentially of sheets, tapes, foams, adhesives, padded adhesives, and clamps.

[0181] In an exemplary embodiment, the system 1000 includes one rain diverter device 1010 for each sliding glass door panel. The rain diverter 1010 is attached by firmly attaching it to a suitable structure external to the corresponding sliding glass door panel. For example, if there is an exposed track, the attachment mechanism can be a clamp having clips, wing screws, adhesive, or other securing mechanism such that the attachment mechanism is firmly attached to the track. If there is no track, or the track does not allow the use of clips or clamps, the attachment mechanism can be an adhesive, as described in the above embodiments.

[0182] Once secured, the rain diverter 1010 is pressed against the sliding glass door and the floor (or other surface) adjacent to the door. The "sealing" interfaces at the top and bottom can be achieved by any of the sealing mechanisms disclosed above.

[0183] Internally, additional water mitigation components can be used alone or in combination. It is understood that in a system utilizing one or more rain diverters, the following additional water mitigation components can be employed. Although any one or combination of the additional water mitigation components can be used, in the most complete embodiments (as Figure 23 shown), the internal water mitigation components will include a plastic (or similar) sheet that will be adhered to the glass and draped over the internal portion of the track. A length of compliant foam is pressed into the track to capture the sheet between the track and the foam, thereby sealing the sheet down into the track groove. One or more clamps 1020 are used to hold the foam and / or the sheet in the track.

[0184] By way of example and not limitation, exemplary clamps are shown in Figures 24 - 34 and Figures 45 - 55 .

[0185] Figures 24 - 27 The clamps 2400 and 2600 of include wing screws to attach the clamp to the track or similar structure while also pressing down on the foam and / or the sheet.

[0186] Figure 45 The clamp 4500 of is a low-profile version of the clamp 2400, Figure 46 shown with the clamp 4500 mounted on the thresholdless riser 4110 and holding the foam track filler in place.

[0187] Figures 28 - 34 The clamps 3100 and 3300 shown in are mounted against the door stile (vertical frame member) 2801 and include compliant foam on multiple surfaces to provide a compliant sealing surface. These types of clamps are beneficial for shallow track or "thresholdless" track installations, as well as situations where foam cannot be inserted as described above. In these cases, as Figure 29 shown, the small gap between the door and the track can be additionally covered with a filler adhesive 2910.

[0188] In addition, Figures 31 - 32The fixture 3100 shown includes offset "legs" 3101 and 3102 to accommodate a tight fit between doors located in two different planes. Additionally, the legs are angled towards each other (interior angle 3103) to provide a built-in clamping force for a tight fit on the door stiles.

[0189] In other cases where there is a small gap between the door and the floor, track, track cover, or other similar structures, or in cases where the finished floor is flush with the door track, embodiments of the present invention include a small gap fixture 4800 ( Figures 48 - 51 ) or a gap filling fixture 5200 ( Figures 52 - 55 ). The gap filling fixture 5200 includes a compliant or semi-compliant body 5210 and a pull tab 5210. The compliant or semi-compliant body 5210 allows the fixture 5200 to be inserted into the small gap under pressure, and the pull tab 5210 is used to pull the fixture 5200 out for removal.

[0190] In another exemplary embodiment, system 4100 shows additional water mitigation components installed in a sliding glass door installation that has no threshold, track cover, or in other words no means for inserting foam into the track or any structure to attach a fixture thereto. Now referring to Figures 41 - 44 , and specifically Figure 44 , this type of installation scenario will be discussed. Figure 44 A cross-section of a sliding glass door is shown where the track is located below the surface of the adjacent interior floor and has a track cover. It can be seen from this installation that there is no track structure into which foam can be pressed. Additionally, there is no track or other structure to which the fixture 2400 can be attached. The thresholdless mullion 4110 component is used to provide an attachment structure for the fixture 2400 and is preferably fixed in place using an adhesive 4120 to secure it to the floor. With the thresholdless mullion 4110 firmly in place, foam can be placed to cover any remaining gaps between the sliding glass door, track, and track cover, and then the fixture 2400 can be pressed into place by firmly attaching it to the thresholdless mullion 4110.

[0191] Rainwater intrusion mitigation kit:

[0192] In an embodiment, the various components disclosed herein are combined into a kit for user assembly and installation. Figure 35 A non-limiting exemplary kit 2000 is depicted in Figure 36 A bill of materials (parts list) for the exemplary kit 2000 is shown.

[0193] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the kit 2000 provides the user with various modular component parts to assemble and install a complete rainwater intrusion mitigation system on multi-panel sliding glass doors (stationary and movable doors).

[0194] As described above, the kit 2000 includes two rain diverters and a plurality of clamps, seals, and adapters that can be assembled to the rain diverters, which may be most advantageous for specific installation conditions.

[0195] In addition, the kit 2000 includes the various components described above for further reducing water intrusion inside the sliding glass door. These components include clamps, foam, adhesives, and sheets. In the kit 2000, as shown, "MFSA - Tape roll with dispenser - M1", item 16 (see Figure 36 ) includes a sheet pre - attached with an adhesive for ease of installation.

[0196] It should be understood that the kit 2000 can optionally include any of the parts, components, and elements disclosed herein in any quantity or configuration and still fall within the scope of the present invention. The kit 2000 depicted in the drawings is merely exemplary and is not intended to limit the parts or quantity of the kit embodiments.

[0197] The description of the present disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Specifically, the features of one embodiment can be used in another embodiment. These embodiments are chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the present disclosure and its practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the present invention in various embodiments with various modifications suitable for the particular purposes contemplated.

Claims

1. A rainwater diverter device, comprising: a body having a front face, a back face, and a thickness that defines a top edge, a bottom edge remote from the top edge, a right edge extending from the top edge to the bottom edge, and a left edge remote from the right edge; a first portion of the body, adjacent to the bottom edge, configured to form a first seal against a first adjacent structure; a second portion of the body, adjacent to the top edge, configured to form a second seal against a second adjacent structure; and a third portion of the body, adjacent to the back face, configured to removably attach the device to a third adjacent structure such that when the device is attached to the third adjacent structure, the first seal and the second seal engage to prevent rainwater from passing through.

2. The rainwater diverter device according to claim 1, wherein the third portion of the body is further configured to orient the body at an angle relative to the vertical direction such that any rainwater falling on the front face will flow downward along the front face away from the top edge.

3. The rainwater diverter device according to claim 1, wherein the device is of an integral structure.

4. The rainwater diverter device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion is a separate component configured to be attached to the body.

5. The rainwater diverter device according to claim 1, wherein the first portion includes a seal selected from the group consisting of a blade seal, a wiper seal, a spherical seal, a compression seal, and an adhesive seal.

6. The rainwater diverter device according to claim 1, wherein the second portion includes a seal selected from the group consisting of a blade seal, a wiper seal, a spherical seal, a compression seal, and an adhesive seal.

7. The rainwater diverter device according to claim 1, wherein the third portion includes an attachment structure selected from the group consisting of a clip, a clamp, and an adhesive.

8. The rainwater diverter device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion is adapted to pivot relative to the body.

9. The rainwater diverter device according to claim 1, wherein the body is further configured with one or more protrusions adapted to receive one or more accessories.

10. A modular rainwater diverter system, the system comprising: a diverter device having a body and a plurality of attachment protrusions provided thereon; a top seal device configured to be attached to one of the plurality of attachment protrusions; a bottom seal device configured to be attached to one of the plurality of attachment protrusions; and one or more attachment devices configured to be attached to one or more of the plurality of attachment protrusions, whereby the modular rainwater diverter system is capable of being sealingly attached to a structure to reduce water intrusion therein.

11. The modular rainwater diverter system according to claim 10 further includes one or more adapters configured to be attached between the diverter device and one of the top seal device, the bottom seal device, one of the one or more attachment devices, another adapter, or another diverter device.

12. The modular rainwater diverter system according to claim 10 further includes one or more end caps attached to one end of the diverter device.

13. The modular rainwater diverter system according to claim 10, wherein the top seal device further includes a top attachment portion and a top seal portion.

14. The modular rainwater diverter system according to claim 13, wherein the top seal portion is selected from the group consisting essentially of a spherical seal, a wiper seal, a vane seal, and an adhesive seal.

15. The modular rainwater diverter system according to claim 10, wherein the bottom seal device further includes a bottom attachment portion and a bottom seal portion.

16. The modular rainwater diverter system according to claim 15, wherein the bottom seal portion is selected from the group consisting essentially of a spherical seal, a wiper seal, a vane seal, and an adhesive seal.

17. The modular rainwater diverter system according to claim 10, wherein each of the one or more attachment devices further includes a diverter attachment portion and a track attachment portion.

18. The modular rainwater diverter system according to claim 17, wherein the track attachment portion is selected from the group consisting essentially of a clip, a clamp, and an adhesive.

19. The modular rainwater diverter system according to claim 10, wherein each of the one or more attachment devices is slidably attached to the rainwater diverter device.

20. A system for diverting rainwater from a sliding glass panel having at least one stationary glass panel and at least one movable glass panel and defining an interior and an exterior, the movable glass panel traveling within a track, the system comprising: one or more rainwater diverter devices, each rainwater diverter device being mounted externally relative to each at least one stationary glass panel and each at least one movable glass panel, each of the rainwater diverter devices including: a body having a front face, a back face, and a thickness, the thickness defining a top edge, a bottom edge remote from the top edge, a right edge extending from the top edge to the bottom edge, and a left edge remote from the right edge; a first portion of the body, adjacent to the bottom edge, configured to form a first seal against a first adjacent structure; a second portion of the body, adjacent to the top edge, configured to form a second seal against a second adjacent structure; and a third portion of the body, adjacent to the back face, configured to removably attach the device to a third adjacent structure such that when the device is attached to the third adjacent structure, the first seal and the second seal engage to prevent rainwater from passing through. Thus, the system effectively and substantially transfers rainwater so as not to pass from the exterior to the interior of the sliding glass door panel.

21. The system according to claim 20, further comprising a compliant foam barrier configured to be disposed within a track on an interior of the sliding glass panel.

22. The system according to claim 20, further comprising a sheet disposed on an interior of the sliding glass panel, the sheet being constrained between the compliant foam barrier and the track.

23. The system according to claim 20, further comprising one or more clamps configured to substantially constrain the compliant foam barrier within the track.

24. The system according to claim 20, further comprising one or more clamps configured to be attached to a door stile adjacent to the track so as to provide a seal around the door stile.

25. The system according to claim 20, further comprising a fill adhesive configured to span a small gap on an interior portion of the sliding glass door.

26. The system according to claim 20, further comprising a thresholdless mullion.

27. A kit for transferring rainwater from a sliding glass panel having at least one stationary glass panel and at least one movable glass panel and defining an interior and an exterior, the movable glass panel traveling within a track, the kit being installable and configurable by a user, the kit comprising: one or more rain diverter devices; a plurality of attachment devices; and a plurality of sealing devices.

28. The kit according to claim 27, further comprising at least one or more of the following: an adapter, an end cap, foam, a clamp, tape, a thresholdless mullion, a flat adhesive, a fill adhesive, and a sheet.

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