Snap-on fire-resistant window frame device

Abstract

An apparatus, system, and method for providing an easily assembled window frame apparatus that may be fire resistant and capable of holding window panels of various designs and constructions for use in buildings. The apparatus utilizes a plurality of connecting members, which may be constructed of lightweight materials such as aluminum, and snap connectors that allow the inner frame to be connected and installed to the building structure by "snapping" the outer frame into place to hold various types of window panels.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 450,775, filed March 8, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] Buildings of modern architectural style are often required to include doors and windows that are deemed fire resistant for a specified period of time. Fire resistant glass and framing combinations must be adapted so that the complete assembly of glazing and framing meets specific code requirements.

[0003] Historically, the most common frames used in fire-resistant assemblies have been hollow metal frames. Further developments in this field have included the use of fire-resistant frameworks that have the ability to block the spread of radiant heat. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 9,234,345 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] U.S. Patent No. 9,234,345 (incorporated by reference) discloses a snap-on frame that improves on the state of the art. Nevertheless, it has been found that many improvements and enhancements to that frame are desirable, and these are disclosed by this application. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] Several exemplary embodiments are provided, including, but not limited to, a snap-on frame made primarily of aluminum configured to support one or more fire-rated glass panels for installation in a building or other structure. Aluminum offers strength advantages over prior art steel designs in a lightweight structure that is easier to handle and install. Improvements include snap connectors that have no sharp edges, are made lightweight, are easier to assemble, and more securely connect the frame components together.

[0007] There is also provided a window frame system comprising a plurality of frame members, each frame member having a connector slot, a first connector member configured to be inserted into and held in place by the connector slot on a first one of the frame members, and a second connector member configured to be inserted into and held in place by the connector slot on a second one of the frame members, the first connector member configured to mate with the second connector member to connect the first one of the frame members to the second one of the frame members and to hold a portion of a glass panel between the first one of the frame members and the second one of the frame members.

[0008] There is further provided a system as described above, further comprising a third connector member configured to be inserted into a connector slot provided on a third one of the frame members and held in a predetermined position, and a fourth connector member configured to be inserted into a connector slot provided on a fourth one of the frame members and held in a predetermined position, the third connector member configured to connect with the fourth connector member to connect the third one of the frame members to the fourth one of the frame members, and configured to hold another portion of the glass panel between the third one of the frame members and the fourth one of the frame members, the first one of the frame members and the second one of the frame members configured to hold one end of the glass panel when connected together, and the third one of the frame members and the fourth one of the frame members configured to hold another end of the glass panel when connected together.

[0009] Further provided is a window frame system comprising a plurality of frame members, each frame member having a plurality of sides defining a hollow interior, each frame member having a connecting side configured with a connector slot; a filler material disposed within the hollow interiors of the plurality of frame members; a male connector member configured to be inserted into and held in place by a connector slot on a first frame member of the frame members; and a male connector member configured to be inserted into and held in place by a connector slot on a second frame member of the frame members. and a female connector member configured to be held in place by a male connector member having a male portion that is removably inserted into and snap-fit ​​with a corresponding female portion of the female connector member to securely connect the male connector member to the female connector member, whereby a first of the frame members is configured with a second frame member such that action of the first frame member connecting with the second frame member is configured to hold a first edge of a glass panel between the first and second frame members.

[0010] Also provided is any of the above window systems, comprising a third male connector member configured to be inserted into a connector slot on a fifth one of the frame members and held in place, and a third female connector member configured to be inserted into a connector slot on a sixth one of the frame members and held in place, the third male connector member configured to mate with the third female connector member to hold the fifth one of the frame members to the sixth one of the frame members, such that action of the fifth frame member connecting with the sixth frame member holds a third edge of the glass panel between the fifth and sixth frame members. a female connector member, a fourth male connector member configured to be inserted into a connector slot on a seventh one of the frame members and held in place by the connector slot, and a fourth female connector member configured to be inserted into a connector slot on an eighth one of the frame members and held in place by the connector slot, the fourth male connector member configured to couple with the fourth female connector member to hold the seventh one of the frame members to the eighth one of the frame members, such that the action of the seventh frame member connecting with the eighth frame member holds a fourth edge of the glass panel between the seventh and eighth frame members.

[0011] Further provided is a window frame system comprising a plurality of frame members, each frame member having a plurality of sides defining a hollow interior, each frame member having a connecting side configured with a connector slot; a filler material disposed within the hollow interior of each frame member of the plurality of frame members; a plurality of male connector members configured to be inserted into and held in place by a respective connector slot on each frame member of a first set of the frame members; and a plurality of male connector members configured to be inserted into a respective connector slot on a second set of the frame members; and a plurality of female connector members configured to be held in place by respective connector slots, wherein each frame member of the first set of frame members having at least one of the male connecting members mounted thereon is paired and connected to a respective frame member of the second set of frame members having a respective at least one female connector member mounted thereon and connected to said respective at least one male connecting member, whereby each connected pair of frame members is configured to hold a different respective edge of a glass panel therebetween.

[0012] Also provided is a method of installing any of the above systems in a building such that the interior window frame is installed, the window panel is placed and held in place, and the exterior window frame is connected to the interior window frame.

[0013] Further provided is a method for installing a window panel, the method comprising: providing at least four connection members each having a first connection portion for releasably connecting to a respective second connection portion; providing at least four inner frame members, each frame member of the inner frame members having a connector slot disposed therein; installing at least one of the first connection portions on each of the four inner frame members using a connector slot of each inner frame member to receive the respective first connection portion; providing at least four outer frame members, each frame member of the outer frame members having a connector slot disposed therein; installing at least one of the second connection portions on each of the four outer frame members using a connector slot of each outer frame member to receive the respective second connection portion; installing the four inner frame members within the building by fastening each frame member of the inner frame members to a structure of the building to form an inner window frame; placing the window panel against the inner window frame and holding the window panel in place; connecting each frame member of the outer frame member to a respective frame member of the inner frame member by connecting a second connecting member installed on each frame member of the outer frame member to a respective frame member of the inner frame member to form an outer window frame connected to the inner window frame, thereby fixing the window panel between the inner window frame and the outer window frame.

[0014] Still further, there is provided a method for installing a window panel, the method comprising: providing at least four connection members each having a first connection portion for releasably connecting to a respective second connection portion; providing at least four inner frame members, each frame member of the inner frame members having a connector slot disposed therein; installing at least one of the first connection portions on each of the four inner frame members using a connector slot of each inner frame member to receive the respective first connection portion; providing at least four outer frame members, each frame member of the outer frame members having a connector slot disposed therein; installing at least one of the second connection portions on each of the four outer frame members using a connector slot of each outer frame member to receive the respective second connection portion; installing the four inner frame members within the building by fastening each frame member of the inner frame members to a structure of the building to form an inner window frame; forming an outer window frame from the four outer frame members by connecting the four outer frame members together using dowels inserted into holes in adjacent ones of the outer frame members to form the outer window frame having four corners; placing the window panel against the inner window frame and holding the window panel in place; and connecting the outer window frame to the inner window frame already installed in the building by connecting second connecting members installed on each frame member of the outer frame member to first connecting members installed on each frame member of the inner frame member, thereby securing the window panel between the inner window frame and the outer window frame.

[0015] Further provided are any of the above systems or methods wherein the connectors are configured to connect at varying depths to accommodate window panels of varying thicknesses. Also provided are embodiments wherein the various components, including the framing members, are made from aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

[0016] Additional exemplary embodiments are also provided, some, but not all, of which are described in more detail below. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0017] Features and advantages of the exemplary embodiments described herein will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which this disclosure relates from reading the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a window frame of the present invention holding a window panel in place. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a three-dimensional exploded perspective view of the main components of an exemplary embodiment of the invention for holding a window panel. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a partial assembly view of the drawing of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exploded perspective partial view of an exemplary window system according to the present invention; [Figure 4A] 5 shows an assembled version of the embodiment of FIG. 4. [Figure 5] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary jamb detail according to the present invention; [Figure 6] 1 is a schematic diagram of a detailed structure of an exemplary horizontal mullion according to the present invention. FIG. [Figure 7] 1 is a schematic diagram of a detailed structure of an exemplary vertical mullion according to the present invention. [Figure 8] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary head detail according to the present invention; [Figure 9] 2 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary underframe detail according to the present invention; [Figure 10] 1 is a schematic diagram of a detailed structure of exemplary horizontal and vertical mullion interfaces in accordance with the present invention; [Figure 11] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary exploded view of an external horizontal and vertical structure according to the present invention. [Figure 12A] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary male connector element that may be used in various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 12B] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary female connector element that may be used in various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 13] 10 is a schematic diagram of an alternative example of the head structure of the present invention. [Figure 14] 10 is a schematic diagram of an alternative lower frame structure of the present invention; [Figure 15] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a pair of frame members "snapped" together to form an alternative central frame structure of the present invention; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] U.S. Patent No. 9,234,345 (incorporated by reference) discloses a snap-on frame that exhibits fire resistance. The disclosure herein, as discussed below, provides substantial improvements to that system, including, in certain embodiments, one or more of: eliminating the "sub-frame" to reduce weight and installation complexity; replacing steel with an all-aluminum frame system; substantially reducing weight; reducing bulk; reducing the use of heavy steel hollow metal framing; improving ease of installation; eliminating the use of some fasteners to secure the cap; and improving aesthetics to provide a similar appearance to current point-of-sale systems.

[0019] Various embodiments of the framing system disclosed herein are formed using framing members formed into a rectangular frame for holding windows in a building. The framing members are designed to be installed in a building by attaching some of the framing members to the building's structure with fixtures to form an inner window frame. Window panels (consisting of various types of window structures that may have one or more panes of glass, insulating gaps, etc.) can then be placed on the inner frame (using, if desired, buffers such as gaskets, tape, etc. installed on the framing members to hold the glass securely without damage), and the outer frame is "snapped" onto the inner frame using a pair of "snap" connector pieces installed on the framing members. The connector pieces are designed to accommodate window panels of various thicknesses and further hold the selected window panel in place.

[0020] In some cases, the outer window frame may be pre-formed using a set of framing members that are pre-connected together (such as by using dowels inserted into slots on the framing members), allowing the entire outer window frame to be installed in one step on the inner window frame by snapping the connectors together. Alternatively, only a subset of the framing members (e.g., two at a time) may be connected together to form "corners" that are individually installed separately.

[0021] "Snap" connectors allow for the other framing members to be removed in the reverse of the installation steps under the above scenario, so that the outer window frame can be secured by the inner window frame using fasteners such as screws and brackets to make the installation more permanent. Alternatively, snaps may be used that self-secure after installation, or means may be utilized to make the snap connection more secure (e.g., using adhesive, welding, etc.).

[0022] These new components and their new assembly techniques allow windows to be more easily installed in buildings with less labor and fewer steps. This avoids the need for drilling and complicated fastening steps to install the exterior window frame, avoiding excessive labor and facilitating the installation process. Furthermore, much of the structure can be made of aluminum or aluminum alloys or other lightweight yet strong alloys, avoiding the use of steel workers to install windows in buildings.

[0023] As mentioned above, framing members can be connected together using connectors such as dowels (steel roll pin / rod structures) inserted into pin slots and / or drilled holes in the framing members, which are used to structurally secure the various framing members together and help facilitate the installation process. Framing members are typically constructed with hollow interiors that are filled with a filler material, such as drywall (sheetrock), which improves the fire resistance of the assembly. While the framing members shown as examples in this application tend to have square cross sections, such members can have rectangular cross sections or cross sections that include curved or other types of angled surfaces, such as for aesthetic or functional reasons.

[0024] These "snap" window frame units can be paired with improved clear fire-resistant glass, such as that disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,479,504, issued October 25, 2022, and incorporated herein by reference. Using a frame with this glass provides a superior solution for a fire-resistant glazing system capable of passing tests under the National Fire Protection Association's fire heating test, including, among others, NFPA 257—Standard for Flame Testing of Window and Glass Block Assemblies, NFPA 252: Standard Methods for Flame Testing of Door Assemblies, UL 9—Standard for Flame Testing of Window Assemblies, CAN / ULC-S106—Standard Methods for Flame Testing of Window and Glass Block Assemblies, UL 263—Flamme Testing of Construction and Materials for Buildings, ASTM E119—Standard Test Methods for Flame Testing of Construction and Materials for Buildings, NFPA 251—Standard Methods for Fire Resistance Testing of Structural Materials for Buildings, and CAN / ULC-S101—Standard Methods for Fire Resistance Testing of Structural Materials for Buildings.

[0025] At least some of the disclosed embodiments have been fire tested with satisfactory results. For example, a 60-minute fire test showed positive results for an exemplary frame assembly using an aluminum formed frame structure tested with installed ceramic fire-resistant glass. The assembly passed a hose flow test. Preferred assemblies are designed to meet various commercial standards, including fire-resistance standards such as UL 9, NFPA 257, UL 263, ASTM E119, and NFPA 80, among others. Security standards (detention / ballistic) such as ASTM F1915, ASTM F1450, and UL 752 are also achieved.

[0026] Figure 1 shows window panels installed in a window frame using the disclosed approach. Specifically, Figure 1 shows the exterior portion of a window 99 installed in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention. A pair of window panels 1, 2 are installed in a window frame with a plurality of connector members 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9, which provide an outer frame for the window, and connector member 9 separates the window panels 1, 2 as part of the outer frame, with member 9 connected at one end to the junction of the ends of connector members 3 and 4 and at the other end to the junction of the ends of connector members 5 and 6. Note that this outer frame is "snap" connected to an inner frame (not shown) that is structurally installed in a building (not shown).

[0027] 2 shows a 3D perspective view of a preferred exemplary embodiment 100 of a snap connector frame that exhibits fire resistance when used with a fire resistant glass panel. The frame is comprised of a plurality of frame structures 301, 302, 303, and 304, described in more detail below, and is configured to hold a glass panel 130 in a window opening in a building.

[0028] Exemplary frame structures 301, 302, and 303 each consist of a frame member 110 having two or more gasket slots 145 configured to receive gaskets 140. Frame member 110 also has connector slots 125 configured to receive male connectors 121 or female connectors 122 (or both). Frame member 110 has a hollow interior that can receive filler material 115, such as drywall, concrete, plaster, fire-resistant plastic or foam, or any other material that provides reliable structural function while substantially withstanding heat to help make the resulting frame structure fire-resistant.

[0029] The exemplary frame structure 304 consists of a frame member 210 having four or more pin slots 155 configured to receive fixation pins (dowels) 150, which are also configured to receive a gasket 140. Note that these may alternatively be provided as separate slots for the pins and gasket. The frame member 210 also has a connector slot 126 configured to receive either the male connector 121 or the female connector 122 (or both). The frame member 210 has a hollow interior that may receive the same filler material (or a different filler material) as described for the frame member 110.

[0030] The frame members 110, 210 may be constructed of a rigid, fire-resistant material such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy. Steel or fire-resistant composites are alternative materials, as are other metal alloys or other materials.

[0031] The frame structures 301, 302, 303, and 304 are configured to hold one or more glass panels 130 using rubber (or other soft material) gaskets 140, either assembled together as shown in FIG. 3 or provided between the edges of the glass panels 130 and the frame structures to hold the glass panels in place.

[0032] The frame structure is assembled in place to hold the glass panel 130 by inserting ("snapping") the male member 121 into the female member 122 (or vice versa) using snap connectors 121, 122, holding the frame members together to form the frame structure and securing the glass panel 130 within the assembled frame. The male and female members 121, 122 of the connectors, described in more detail below, have structure that holds the frame members together securely for glass panels of various thicknesses and are therefore adjustable based on the thickness of the glass panel; the male member 121 can be inserted into the female member 122 to various depths based on the thickness of the glass panel 130 and still hold the members securely together, thereby holding the glass panel in place.

[0033] The gasket or tape 140 may be made of a resilient or other padding material or tape that is preferably fire and heat resistant, such as ceramic or rubber or a composite material configured to hold the glass panel 130 firmly in place between opposing frame structures. The male and female members 121, 122 of the snap connectors are installed within their respective frame members by sliding each connector member into and along corresponding connector slots 125, 135 provided in the respective frame members 110, 210 to the desired position.

[0034] Note that frame structure 304 is connected to frame structure 301 using two pins (dowels) 150, which have one end that is inserted into pin slots 155 in frame member 210, and the pins 150 have their opposite ends that are inserted into drilled holes 156 in frame member 110 of frame structure 301. This secures frame structure 301 to frame structure 304 and facilitates assembly of the entire window frame. Typically, this approach is used for the outer frame of a window, but it can also be used for the inner frame by replacing one of structures 302, 303 with a structure similar to that of structure 304.

[0035] The pins 150 may be provided already fully seated within the slots 155, but if desired, they can be moved into position by sliding them outward (such as by using a screwdriver through the slots 155) to expose them and mate with corresponding drilled holes.

[0036] The frame members 110, 210 may be provided in any desired length, variable lengths, or equal lengths, as desired, and the use of a common reference number does not imply that all such members are the same length. Similarly, the glass panels 140 may be provided in different sizes, including different thicknesses, compositions, and constructions, and the use of a common reference number does not imply that all such members are the same size or composition.

[0037] It is further noted that while FIG. 3 shows gaps at the corners of the frame structures 302, 303, these structures can be arranged to touch and / or overlap to eliminate the gaps, particularly by sliding the connector components further down the connector slots.

[0038] It should be further noted that the male connector member 121 and the female connector member 122 are shown as being oppositely positioned in the following exemplary figures, emphasizing that the connector arrangement may be interchanged or otherwise selected as desired according to the needs of a particular application.

[0039] Figure 4 shows an exploded perspective partial view of a window system 400 consisting of frame structures 305, 306, 307, and 308 that form a frame for holding glass panels 430, 431, with frame structure 306 secured to a building structure 420 using mounting brackets 155. Figure 4A shows these components in window system 400 in an assembled state.

[0040] 5 shows a detailed view of an exemplary three-sided frame showing a pair of frame members 110, each having a gasket 140 for contacting and holding a glass panel 130, with one frame member (inner) having a male connector 121 disposed in its connector slot and the other frame member (outer) having a female connector 122 disposed in its connector slot. EPDM tape 144 is disposed on the (inner) frame member 110 over the slot 145 in a mounting bracket 160 configured with screws 162 to mount the assembly on the building structure 420. The screws 161 are used to secure the bracket 160 to the (outer) frame member 110. Filler material 115 is provided in the hollow interior of the frame member 110. Insulation 142 is provided between the frame member 110 and the building structure 420.

[0041] 6 shows a detailed view of an exemplary horizontal mullion, showing an (inner) frame member 110 having a pair of gaskets 140 and a male connector 121 provided in a connector slot connected to an (outer) frame member 210 also having a pair of gaskets 140, a female connector 122, and a pair of pin slots 155 with respective pins 150 inserted therein. A pair of glass panels 130 are held in place with a setting block 143 against the upper glass panel using the connected frame members and gaskets. Filler material 115 is provided within the hollow interior of the frame member 110.

[0042] 7 shows a detailed view of an exemplary vertical mullion, showing an (inner) frame member 110 having a pair of gaskets 140 and a male connector 121 provided in its connector slot connected to an (outer) frame member 110 also having a pair of gaskets 140 and a female connector 122 inserted in its connector slot. A pair of glass panels 130 are held in place using the connected frame members and gaskets. A filler material 115 is provided within the hollow interior of the frame member 110.

[0043] FIG. 8 shows a detailed view of an exemplary head, showing an (inner) frame member 110 having a gasket 140 and a male connector 121 in a connector slot connected to an (outer) frame member 210 also having a gasket 140, a female connector 122, and a pair of pin slots 155. EPDM tape 144 is applied to the (inner) frame member 110 in a mounting bracket 160 configured with a screw 162 to install the assembly on a building structure 420. The screw 161 is used to secure the bracket 160 to the (outer) frame member 210. The glass panel 130 is held in place using the connected frame members and gasket. Filler material 115 is provided in the hollow interior of the frame member 110. Insulation 142 is provided between the frame members 110, 210 and the building structure 420. This assembly is used in the head (top) of a window frame.

[0044] FIG. 9 shows a detailed view of an exemplary sill, showing an (inner) frame member 110, having a gasket 140 and a male connector 121 in a connector slot, connected to an (outer) frame member 210, also having a gasket 140, a female connector 122, and a pair of pin slots 155. EPDM tape 144 is applied to the (inner) frame member 110 in a mounting bracket 160 configured with screws 162 to mount the assembly on a building structure 420. Screws 161 are used to secure the bracket 160 to the (outer) frame member 210. The glass panel 130 is held in place using the connected frame members and gasket. Filler material 115 is provided within the hollow interior of the frame member 110. Insulation 142 is provided between the frame members 110, 210 and the building structure 420. This assembly is used in the sill (bottom) of a window frame.

[0045] 10 shows details of an exemplary horizontal and vertical mullion interface, having an inner horizontal mullion frame structure 171 connected to an inner vertical mullion frame structure 172, with an outer horizontal mullion frame structure 173 connected to an outer vertical mullion frame structure 174, all assembled to hold a pair of glass panels 130 using a plurality of gaskets 140. The horizontal structures are connected using male and female connectors as shown elsewhere above, while the vertical structures are connected by at least the male and female connectors 121 and 122 shown. The outer horizontal frame structure 173 is connected to the outer vertical frame structure 174 using pins 150, also as described above.

[0046] FIG. 11 shows an exploded view of the external structure of the horizontal and vertical structures described above, with numbered arrows indicating the preferred assembly order.

[0047] 12A shows an exemplary male connector element having ridge 123 and base 128. This connector can be cut at 90° at the cut marks to separate the scored portion for use with ceramic glass panels, for example, if the complete connector is to be used on a thicker clear glass panel.

[0048] 12B shows an exemplary female connector element having ridge 124 and base 129. This connector can be cut at a 45° angle at the cut mark to separate the scored portion for use with ceramic glass panels, for example, if the complete connector is to be used on a thicker clear glass panel. Ridge 124 mates with ridge 123 on male connector 121 to removably and securely connect the two parts together. The use of multiple ridges allows the connector to reliably connect at various insertion depths to accommodate glass panels of various thicknesses.

[0049] Male connector portion 121 and female connector portion 122 may be made of aluminum, aluminum alloy, composite material, or any other lightweight material that provides reliable structural function while substantially withstanding heat.

[0050] An alternative embodiment is shown in Figures 13-15 and described below.

[0051] FIG. 13 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a pair of frame members 10 "snap-fit" together to hold a glass panel 30 along its top edge using a gasket 40. A connector 20 has male and female portions that securely but removably connect together. The frame members 10 have slots 12 that can receive pins, and the pins inserted into the slots 12 connect to portions that also insert into corresponding holes drilled in adjacent members, thereby helping to hold the members together. The frame members 10 are made hollow to allow for filling of voids with a filler material such as plaster or drywall (sheetrock).

[0052] This provides a "head" structure that covers the top edge of the glass panel and provides structural support to the glass panel by connecting the snap-fit ​​frame to the window frame or other building structure.

[0053] FIG. 14 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a pair of frame members 10 "snapped" together to hold a glass panel 30 along its bottom edge using a gasket 40. A support bracket 50 is provided that is secured to one of the frame members 10 using a screw 51 or other fastening component to support the glass panel 30. A support block 52, such as a calcium silicate setting block, is provided between the support bracket 50 and the bottom edge of the glass panel 30 to hold the glass panel 30 securely in place without damaging it. This assembly provides a "sill" structure that holds the bottom edge of the glass panel and may provide structural support to the glass panel by connecting the snapped-together frame to a window frame or other building structure.

[0054] 15 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a pair of frame members 10 that "snap" together to form a central frame portion for holding a pair of glass panels 30 along the bottom edge of one glass panel 31 and the top edge of an adjacent glass panel 32, effectively stacking the glass panels 31, 32 on top of each other along their edges. Support blocks (not shown) can be provided between support brackets (not shown) and the bottom edges of the glass panels 30 to hold the glass panels 30 securely in place without damaging them. In this manner, multiple glass panels can be stacked together to form larger vertical or more decorative structures.

[0055] It should be noted that the frame members of this embodiment may be connected to the building structure in a manner similar to that shown for the other embodiments, as shown using the brackets and screws described above.

[0056] The various frame designs of the present invention can be used with window panels of various types and configurations. Fire-resistant panels can be used, including ceramic and clear glass panels, wire glass panels, and other types of panels. The system can accommodate insulating glass panels made from one or more glass panes, laminated glass, bulletproof glass, simple annealed glass, safety glass, tempered glass, and glass substitutes such as acrylic and polycarbonate panels (e.g., Plexiglas), as well as other types of panels. Even panels that are not transparent but offer other benefits, such as thermal insulation, fire resistance, and ballistic resistance, can be used. These frames are configured with adjustable depths to accommodate various thicknesses and types of panels as desired, and can be further tailored by selecting the desired connector size and type for the desired configuration.

[0057] Generally, any of the above embodiments can be installed in a building by assembling / installing an inner window frame using four or more framing members, at least some of which are physically attached to the building's structure. A glass panel (or multiple panels) is then placed and held in place relative to the inner frame (such as by using temporarily placed retaining clips or other hardware), and the outer window frame is "snapped" into place by inserting the connecting members together. The outer window frame may be pre-assembled in advance using the assembly tools described herein (e.g., slots, drilled holes, and pins / dowels) to facilitate the assembly process. The connecting members are designed to accommodate the variable spacing of the framing members (exterior to interior), so the system can accommodate window panels of various thicknesses and types. If desired, the outer window frame can be more securely fastened to the inner window frame using brackets and / or fasteners such as screws or bolts.

[0058] A more detailed exemplary installation process is as follows. "Mounting brackets" are loosely pre-installed with fasteners around the perimeter of the horizontal and vertical exterior framing members.

[0059] Measure the rough opening in the wall for the frame, locate the approximate center of the depth of the opening, and attach the vertical exterior framing members to the rough opening in the wall using mounting brackets attached with appropriate wall anchors.

[0060] Adjust both vertical exterior framing members until they are both aligned horizontally at the same height (at a 90 degree angle to the floor) and the pin holes are aligned horizontally, within the rough openings, equal and opposite to the other verticals in the assembly.

[0061] Install the horizontal exterior framing members by inserting "dowels" with a screwdriver or similar tool into each location where there is a drilled hole in the vertical exterior framing members. Check the horizontal alignment (alignment and leveling). See Figure 3 for an example.

[0062] After the horizontal exterior members are secured with dowels, adjust the frame assembly as needed (plumb and square) within the rough opening in the wall and tighten all fasteners and anchors on each "mounting bracket" around the perimeter of the exterior frame members.

[0063] At each setting block location marked, place the appropriate setting block on the two brackets at the bottom of each glazed opening. See item 143 in Figure 6 for an example.

[0064] Install temporary glass retaining clips in the center of each horizontal exterior framing member.

[0065] Note: Ensure that the orientation of the glass clip does not interfere with the setting of the glass unit.

[0066] With this help, each glass unit is placed on the setting blocks (as mentioned in the step in paragraph 0096) placed in each opening.

[0067] Using the installed glass temporary fastening clips, temporarily fasten each glass unit in the center along its horizontal edge.

[0068] The vertical inner frame members are then installed onto the vertical outer frame members by aligning the male and female clips and "snapping" the connectors together by hand or (if necessary) with a rubber mallet.

[0069] NOTE: Ensure that the snap-fit ​​framing members are pressed snugly against the glass unit.

[0070] After all of the vertical interior frame members are installed, the glass temporary hold-down clips are removed from the horizontal exterior frame members.

[0071] Install the horizontal inner framework members by aligning the male and female clips and "snap" the connectors together by hand or (if necessary) with a rubber mallet.

[0072] Ensure all framing members are securely fastened around the perimeter of the frame assembly.

[0073] Install insulation as needed in the gap between the frame assembly and the rough opening in the wall, along the perimeter.

[0074] If necessary, caulk or silicone seal the perimeter to cover and seal the insulation within the cavity on the outside and inside of the frame assembly.

[0075] It should be noted that some of these steps may be performed in advance at a remote location, such as a factory or other assembly site. For example, the exterior (or interior) frame may be pre-assembled at a remote location, and various components such as mounting brackets and connectors may be pre-installed.

[0076] Many other exemplary embodiments may be provided through various combinations of the features described above. While the embodiments described above use specific examples and alternatives, those skilled in the art will recognize that various additional alternatives may be used, and equivalents may be substituted for the elements and / or steps described herein, without necessarily departing from the intended scope of the present application. Modifications may be necessary to adapt an embodiment to a particular situation or to particular needs, without departing from the intended scope of the present application. The present application is not limited to the specific exemplary implementations and exemplary embodiments described herein, and it is intended that the claims be accorded their broadest reasonable interpretation to cover all novel and non-obvious embodiments, whether disclosed or not, literally or equivalently, covered thereby.

Claims

1. 1. A window frame system comprising: a plurality of frame members, each frame member having a connector slot; a first connector member configured to be inserted into and held in place by the connector slot on a first one of the frame members; a second connector member configured to be inserted into and held in place by the connector slot on a second one of the frame members; the first connector member is configured to mate with the second connector member to connect the first one of the frame members to the second one of the frame members and to hold a portion of a glass panel between the first one of the frame members and the second one of the frame members.

2. 10. The window frame system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of framing members are made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy.

3. The window frame system of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of framing members have hollow interiors substantially filled with a filler material.

4. 2. The window frame system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of frame members have a substantially rectangular cross section, each of the frame members having a frame slot disposed at an end corner of the frame member.

5. 5. The window frame system of claim 4, wherein the framing slot is configured to receive a dowel configured to connect the end of the first one of the framing members to a side of another one of the framing members to form a corner of the framing system.

6. 6. The window frame system of claim 5, wherein the framework slots are also configured to receive one or more shock absorbers configured to contact and cushion the glass panel.

7. 5. The window frame system of claim 4, wherein the framework slots are configured to receive one or more shock absorbers configured to contact and cushion the glass panel.

8. The window frame system of claim 4 , wherein the framing slot is configured to extend along a substantial length of the framing member.

9. 5. The window frame system of claim 4, wherein some of the frame slots are configured to receive one or more shock absorbers configured to contact and cushion the glass panel, and other of the frame slots are configured to receive one or more dowels configured to connect an end of one of the frame members to a side of another of the frame members to form a corner of the framing system.

10. 2. The window frame system of claim 1, wherein the first connector member is configured as a male portion for insertion into a corresponding female portion of the second connector member.

11. 11. The window frame system of claim 10, wherein the male connector member has a series of ridges on its outer surface that correspond to a series of ridges on the inner surface of the female connector member, whereby the male connector member is configured to connect securely and releasably with the female connector member upon insertion.

12. 12. The window frame system of claim 11, wherein the male connector member is configured to connect with the female connector member in a secure and removable manner at different insertion depths that allow variable spacing between the first and second frame members to accommodate different thicknesses of window glass.

13. 10. The window frame system of claim 1, further comprising a fixture configured to attach the first framing member to a building structure to retain the window pane in the window frame system.

14. 14. The window frame system of claim 13, wherein the window pane is attached to the building using the window frame system to hold the window pane in place without attaching the second framing member to the structure of the building.

15. 15. The window frame system of claim 14, further comprising a frame connector configured to securely connect the second frame member to the first frame member to prevent the first frame member from becoming detached from the second frame member after the window pane is installed in the building.

16. a third connector member configured to be inserted into and held in place by the connector slot on a third one of the frame members; and a fourth connector member configured to be inserted into and held in place by the connector slot on a fourth one of the frame members; the third connector member is configured to connect with the fourth connector member to connect the third one of the frame members to the fourth one of the frame members and to hold another portion of the glass panel between the third one of the frame members and the fourth one of the frame members; the first one of the frame members and the second one of the frame members are configured to hold one edge of the glass panel when connected together; 2. The window frame system of claim 1, wherein the third one of the frame members and the fourth one of the frame members are configured to hold another end of the glass panel when connected together.

17. 17. The window frame system of claim 16, wherein the first one of the frame members and the second one of the frame members are connected and arranged together to form a corner with the third one of the frame members connected to the fourth one of the frame members.

18. 18. The window frame system of claim 17, wherein the first one of the frame members includes a frame slot for receiving a dowel connected to the third one of the frame members through a hole drilled in the third one of the frame members to form the corner.

19. 2. The window frame system of claim 1, wherein the first connector member is provided near one end of the first frame member and the second connector member is provided near one end of the second frame member.

20. 20. The window frame system of claim 19, wherein a fourth connector member is provided near another end of the first frame member and a fifth connector member is provided near another end of the second frame member, whereby the fourth connector member interfaces with the fifth connector member to further connect the first frame member to the second frame member.

21. The window frame system of claim 1 , wherein the glass panel is comprised of multiple glass panes.

22. 1. A window frame system comprising: a plurality of frame members, each frame member having a plurality of sides defining a hollow interior, each frame member having a connecting side configured with a connector slot; a filler material disposed within the hollow interiors of the plurality of framing members; a male connector member configured to be inserted into and held in place by the connector slot on a first one of the frame members; a female connector member configured to be inserted into and held in place by the connector slot on a second one of the frame members; the male connector member is configured with a male portion that is removably inserted and snap-fit ​​into a corresponding female portion of the female connector member to securely connect the male connector member to the female connector member, whereby: a first one of the frame members configured with a second one of the frame members such that action of connecting the first frame member with the second frame member is configured to hold a first end of a glass panel between the first and second frame members.

23. 23. The window frame system of claim 22, wherein the male connector member is configured to be inserted into the female connector member in a secure manner and to variable depths to accommodate glass panels of different thicknesses.

24. a second male connector member configured to be inserted into and held in place by the connector slot on a third one of the frame members; a second female connector member configured to be inserted into and held in place by the connector slot on a fourth one of the frame members; 23. The window frame system of claim 22, wherein the second male connector member is configured to interlock with the second female connector member to hold the third one of the frame members to the fourth one of the frame members, such that the action of the third frame member connecting with the fourth frame member holds the second end of the glass panel between the third frame member and the fourth frame member.

25. 25. The window frame system of claim 24, wherein the first frame member is connected to the third frame member using connecting dowels to form a corner.

26. a third male connector member configured to be inserted into and held in place by the connector slot on a fifth one of the frame members; a third female connector member configured to be inserted into and held in place by the connector slot on a sixth one of the frame members, a third female connector member configured to interlock with the third female connector member to hold the fifth one of the frame members to the sixth one of the frame members, such that the action of the fifth frame member connecting with the sixth frame member holds a third end of a glass panel between the fifth frame member and the sixth frame member; a fourth male connector member configured to be inserted into and held in place by the connector slot on a seventh one of the frame members; a fourth female connector member configured to be inserted into and held in place by the connector slot on an eighth one of the frame members, 26. The window frame system of claim 25, further comprising: a fourth female connector member configured to interlock with the fourth female connector member to hold the seventh one of the frame members to the eighth one of the frame members, such that the action of the seventh frame member connecting with the eighth frame member holds a fourth end of a glass panel between the seventh frame member and the eighth frame member.

27. 27. The window frame system of claim 26, further comprising additional male connector members that connect to additional female connecting members to further connect various of the frame members to respective others of the frame members.

28. 27. The window frame system of claim 26, wherein the fifth frame member is connected to the sixth frame member using another connecting dowel to form another corner.

29. 1. A window frame system comprising: a plurality of frame members, each frame member having a plurality of sides defining a hollow interior, each frame member having a connecting side configured with a connector slot; a filler material disposed within the hollow interior of each of the plurality of frame members; a plurality of male connector members configured to be inserted into, and held in place by, respective connector slots on each frame member of the first set of frame members; a plurality of female connector members configured to be inserted into and held in place by respective connector slots on a second set of the frame members; a window frame system wherein each frame member of the first set of frame members having at least one of the male connection members attached thereto is paired and connected to a respective frame member of the second set of frame members having a respective at least one female connector member attached thereto and connected to said respective at least one male connection member, whereby each connected pair of frame members is configured to hold a different respective edge of a glass panel therebetween.

30. 30. The window frame system of claim 29, wherein each connected pair of frame members is connected using two male connector members respectively connected to two female connector members.

31. 30. The window frame system of claim 29, wherein at least one connected pair of the frame members is attached to another connected pair of the frame members using dowels inserted into respective slots of the frame members of each connected pair, whereby the attached connected pairs of the frame members form a corner.

32. 1. A method for installing a window panel, comprising: providing at least four connection members each having a first connection portion for releasably connecting to a respective second connection portion; providing at least four inner frame members, each of the inner frame members having a connector slot disposed therein; installing at least one of the first connections on each of the four inner frame members using the connector slot of each inner frame member to receive the respective first connection; providing at least four outer frame members, each of said outer frame members having a connector slot disposed therein; installing at least one of the second connectors on each of the four outer frame members using the connector slot of each outer frame member to receive the respective second connector; installing the four inner frame members within the building by fastening each of the inner frame members to a structure of the building to form an inner window frame; placing a window panel against the inner window frame and holding the window panel in place; and connecting each of the outer frame members to a respective one of the inner frame members by connecting the second connecting members located on each of the outer frame members to the first connecting members located on a respective one of the inner frame members to form an outer window frame connected to the inner window frame, thereby securing the window panel between the inner window frame and the outer window frame.

33. 33. The method of claim 32, wherein the step of installing the four inner frame members inside the building includes connecting the outer frame members together using one or more dowels installed in respective slots on the outer frame members.

34. 33. The method of claim 32, wherein the connection is configured to accommodate window panels of various thicknesses.

35. 33. The method of claim 32, wherein each frame member of the inner frame members is connected to a respective frame member of the outer frame members using a pair of connecting members located at opposite ends of the inner and outer frame members.

36. 1. A method for installing a window panel, comprising: providing at least four connection members each having a first connection portion for releasably connecting to a respective second connection portion; providing at least four inner frame members, each of the inner frame members having a connector slot disposed therein; installing at least one of the first connections on each of the four inner frame members using the connector slot of each inner frame member to receive the respective first connection; providing at least four outer frame members, each of said outer frame members having a connector slot disposed therein; installing at least one of the second connectors on each of the four outer frame members using the connector slot of each outer frame member to receive the respective second connector; installing the four inner frame members within the building by fastening each of the inner frame members to a structure of the building to form an inner window frame; forming an outer window frame from the four outer frame members by connecting the four outer frame members together using dowels inserted into holes in adjacent ones of the outer frame members to form the outer window frame having four corners; placing a window panel against the inner window frame and holding the window panel in place; connecting the outer window frame to the inner window frames already installed in the building by connecting the second connecting members installed on each frame member of the outer frame members to the first connecting members installed on each frame member of the inner frame members, thereby securing the window panel between the inner window frame and the outer window frame.

37. 37. The method of claim 36, wherein the first connecting portion is received by the second connecting portion by inserting one of the connecting portions into the other of the connecting portions, the connecting portions being configured to connect at different insertion depths to accommodate window panels of different thicknesses.

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