Windowed section with internal installation mechanism and related systems and methods

Abstract

A system and method for installing a windowed section is provided, configured to be positioned in a rough opening (RO) from the inside of a building structure or wall. The windowed section may be coupled to a frame and include a retaining system that, when the windowed section is inserted into the rough opening from the inside of the rough opening, is operable to maintain a secure engagement between the windowed section and the rough opening frame and to apply a retaining force to the windowed section to resist removal from the rough opening.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - reference to Related Applications This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 478,189, filed on September 29, 2023, entitled "Window with Internal Installation Mechanism and Related Systems and Methods"; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 581,834, filed on September 11, 2023, entitled "Window with Internal Installation Mechanism and Related Systems and Methods"; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 520,276, filed on August 17, 2023, entitled "Window with Internal Installation Mechanism and Related Systems and Methods"; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 463,103, filed on May 1, 2023, entitled "Window with Internal Installation Mechanism and Related Systems and Methods"; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 453,344, filed on March 20, 2023, entitled "Internal Installation Mechanism, System and Method". The content of each application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety into this specification.

Background Art

[0002] The window structure typically has an external nailing flange and is installed from the outside of the building's exterior. Two installers work together, one inside and the other outside. Some installers find it easier to unpack the window inside the relatively clean and flat interior of the building. The installer then passes the window to the person on the outside through a rough opening (RO). In some cases, the person on the outside is on a ladder, which can substantially complicate the installation. While the installer on the outside holds the window, the installer on the inside aligns the window in the RO, inserting shims to ensure it is all horizontal, vertical, and perpendicular. After the window is precisely positioned, the installer on the inside holds the window in place while the installer on the outside drives nails or screws through the external nailing flange to secure it. For ventilated windows, the sash is then opened to verify functional operation. The installer on the inside then injects expansion foam around the window in the gap between the frame and the RO to form an internal air seal. At the same time, the external installer applies a 3-inch (76 mm) to 4-inch (102 mm) wide rainproof tape across the window head and along the vertical frame. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 8621795 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent No. 8109052 [Patent Document 3] U.S. Patent No. 7162841 [Patent Document 4] German Utility Model Registration No. 202016101375 [Patent Document 5] International Publication No. 2015 / 142201 [Patent Document 6] U.S. Patent No. 6,293,061 [Patent Document 7] U.S. Patent No. 5,692,350 [Patent Document 8] U.S. Patent No. 11332946 [Patent Document 9] U.S. Patent No. 8006445 [Patent Document 10] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2008 / 0127564 [Patent Document 11] U.S. Patent No. 10895099 [Patent Document 12] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005 / 0262782 [Patent Document 13] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0318418 [Patent Document 14] U.S. Patent No. 4488391 [Patent Document 15] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2011 / 0258947 [Non-patent literature]

[0004] [Non-Patent Document 1] Innotech Windows & Doors, Strap Anchorshttps: / / www.innotech-windows.com / blog / in-depth-benefits-of-anchoring-method-window-installation [Non-Patent Document 2] FrontLine Tru-LocTM Bracketshttps: / / frontlinebldg.com / all-products / accessories / tru-loc-window-door-installation-anchor / [Non-Patent Document 3] Amesbury Hinged Finhttps: / / www.amesburytruth.com / products / extrusions / nailing-fin / hinged / hinged-pp1219 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] Various advantages can be achieved by the exemplary systems and methods described herein. These may include being more efficient (e.g., cycle time reduced by 50% or more), easier to learn, easier to remember, easier to train, requiring less physical effort (e.g., windows are not located on uneven ground or on the outside where a ladder may be required), making it impossible for windows to fall outward during installation, being installable by a single person from inside the building structure, eliminating the need for simultaneous installation of interior and exterior work, improving the quality of installation of the windowed section and its performance after installation, providing industry-specific installation methods and offering many benefits to installers, making cycle time faster, improving performance (water and air intrusion), adapting to variations in wall depth, simplifying the installation of frames for finishing carpenters, separating interior and exterior work so that it is performed "independently," and one or more of these. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] Holding mechanism system

[0007] According to one embodiment ("Embodiment 1"), the windowed portion has an inner and an outer side, and is configured to be installed in a rough opening in a structure defined by a rough opening frame, the rough opening has an inner side and an outer side, and the rough opening frame has an inner surface and an outer surface opposite the inner surface. The windowed portion comprises a frame having a perimeter, and a retaining system coupled to the frame and operable to act to exert a retaining force on the rough opening frame to maintain a secure engagement between the windowed portion and the rough opening frame and to resist removal of the windowed portion from the rough opening, so that the windowed portion stays in the rough opening without the use of fasteners. In the embodiment, the retaining system is adjustable to accommodate the space between the rough opening frame and the frame.

[0008] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 2"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the frame has an upper part, a lower part, a first side part, and a second side part, both of which define the perimeter of the frame.

[0009] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 3"), in addition to Embodiment 2, the retaining system is coupled to at least one of the upper portion of the frame and the lower portion of the frame.

[0010] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 4"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the frame is a main frame or a sub-frame.

[0011] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 5"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the windowed portion further includes a glass portion coupled to the frame.

[0012] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 6"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the retaining system is configured to be preferentially inserted into the rough opening from the inner side of the rough opening.

[0013] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 7"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the retaining force is about 1 pound (4.4 N) or more.

[0014] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 8"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the retaining force is at least 10 pounds (44 N).

[0015] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 9"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the retaining system includes a sill spacer configured to apply a tilting bias to the windowed portion toward the outer side of the rough opening.

[0016] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 10"), in addition to Embodiment 9, the windowed portion defines a center of gravity, and further, when the contact surface is stationary on the sill portion of the rough opening frame assembly, the sill spacer is fixed to the lower portion of the frame to define a contact surface that is offset inward of the windowed portion with respect to the center of gravity of the windowed portion so that the sill spacer applies a tilting bias to the windowed portion toward the outer side of the rough opening.

[0017] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 11"), in addition to Embodiment 10, the sill spacer has a round cross-sectional profile.

[0018] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 12"), in addition to Embodiment 11, the contact surface defines a top, and furthermore, the top is substantially flat.

[0019] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 13"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the retaining system includes a retainer configured to allow the fennel portion to be inserted into the rough opening in a first direction with a first insertion force, and to resist the removal of the fennel portion from the opening in a second direction with a second withdrawal force.

[0020] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 14"), in addition to Embodiment 13, the extraction force is substantially greater than the insertion force.

[0021] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 15"), in addition to Embodiment 13, the retainer is coupled to the top of the frame so that the retainer mechanically engages with the header portion of the rough opening frame.

[0022] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 16"), in addition to Embodiment 13, the retainer includes a plurality of flex arms, each having a first flex arm with a first engaging end and a second flex arm with a second engaging end, wherein the first flex arm is positioned adjacent to the second flex arm in the short direction, and the first flex arm is longer than the second flex arm.

[0023] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 17"), in addition to Embodiment 16, the first and second engaging ends are configured to mechanically engage with the framework of the rough opening.

[0024] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 18"), in addition to Embodiment 13, the retainer includes a base fixed to the frame, a flexible arm extending from the base, a stopper extending from the flexible arm, and an engaging mechanism extending from the flexible arm, wherein the retainer is operable such that the flexible arm bends in a first bending direction while the frame is inserted in a first direction, and the flexible arm bends in a second bending direction as the frame moves in a second direction.

[0025] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 19"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the windowed portion further comprises an engagement system coupled to a frame, the engagement system being configured to securely engage with the inner surface of the rough opening frame when the windowed portion is inserted into the rough opening from the inside of the rough opening, and the retaining system being operable to maintain a secure engagement between the retaining system and the rough opening frame without using fasteners to fix the windowed portion to the rough opening frame when the windowed portion is inserted into the rough opening from the inside of the rough opening.

[0026] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 20"), in addition to Embodiment 19, the engagement system includes a coupling bracket having a first leg and a second leg that is angularly offset from the first leg.

[0027] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 21"), in addition to Embodiment 20, the second leg includes one or more openings configured to receive fasteners for connecting the second leg to a rough opening frame.

[0028] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 22"), in addition to Embodiment 19, the engagement system further includes a carrier bracket that engages with at least a portion of the coupling bracket, and at least one of the coupling bracket or the carrier bracket includes a plurality of return stops at different offset distances.

[0029] Retention mechanism - installation method

[0030] According to one embodiment ("Embodiment 1"), a method is provided for installing a windowed section in a rough opening in a wall. The rough opening has an inward-facing side and an outward-facing side. The method includes the step of attaching the frame of the windowed section to the rough opening in an outward direction such that a retaining system coupled to the frame of the windowed section applies a retaining force to the framework of the rough opening in order to hold the frame in the rough opening and prevent the frame from tilting inward, wherein the frame is held in the rough opening without fasteners that fix the frame to the rough opening framework, and after inserting the frame into the rough opening, the frame of the windowed section is coupled to the rough opening using one or more fasteners.

[0031] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 2"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the holding system is coupled to the upper part of the frame of the windowed section, and the step of attaching the frame to the rough opening includes first moving the lower part of the frame parallel to the rough opening in an outward direction, and then inclining the upper part of the frame toward the outward side of the rough opening so that the holding system engages with the header of the rough opening to hold the frame in the rough opening.

[0032] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 3"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the holding system exhibits resistance to the attachment of the windowed section in the outward direction such that a first insertion force is required to fix the windowed section in the outward direction, and once the frame of the windowed section is attached to the rough opening, the holding system holds the frame in the rough opening against inclination in the inward direction such that a second holding force different from the first insertion force is required in the inward direction to tilt the upper part of the frame out of the rough opening.

[0033] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 4"), in addition to the case of Embodiment 3, the extraction force is substantially greater than the insertion force.

[0034] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 5"), in addition to Embodiment 3, the holding force can be determined by using a force gauge positioned perpendicular to the vertical plane of the window on the outside of the window, approximately 8 inches (203 millimeters) from the top of the window along the vertical centerline of the window, and pushing the force gauge inward until the window is pushed out of the opening and the maximum force measured by the force gauge is obtained.

[0035] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 6"), in addition to Embodiment 3, the holding force is at least 1 pound (4.4 N).

[0036] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 7"), in addition to Embodiment 3, the holding force is at least 10 pounds (44 N).

[0037] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 8"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the holding system includes a retainer fixed to the top of the frame, and further, the step of attaching the frame to the rough opening includes the step of mechanically engaging the header of the rough opening with the retainer.

[0038] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 9"), in addition to Embodiment 8, the retainer includes a first flex arm having a first engaging end, and the step of mechanically engaging the retainer with the header of the rough opening includes sliding the first engaging end against the header of the rough opening and bending the first flex arm in a first direction as the frame moves parallel to the rough opening.

[0039] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 10"), in addition to Embodiment 9, the retainer includes a second flex arm having a second engaging end, the second flex arm being positioned adjacent to the first flex arm in the short direction, the first flex arm being longer than the second flex arm, and further, the steps of mechanically engaging the retainer with the header of the rough opening include first sliding the first engaging end against the header of the rough opening, bending the first flex arm in a first direction as the frame moves parallel to the rough opening, then sliding the second engaging end against the header of the rough opening, and bending the second flex arm in a first direction as the frame moves parallel to the rough opening.

[0040] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 11"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the retaining system includes a retainer having a base fixed to a frame, a flexible arm extending from the base, a stopper extending from the flexible arm, and an engaging mechanism extending from the flexible arm, wherein the flexible arm bends in a first bending direction during mounting to the frame in a first direction.

[0041] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 12"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the windowed portion further comprises an engagement system coupled to a frame, and the step of inserting the windowed portion into the rough opening includes a step of securely engaging the engagement system with the inner surface of the rough opening frame from the inside side of the rough opening, and the retaining system operates to maintain a secure engagement between the engagement system and the rough opening frame.

[0042] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 13"), in addition to Embodiment 12, the engagement system includes a coupling bracket having a first leg and a second leg that is angularly offset from the first leg.

[0043] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 14"), in addition to Embodiment 13, the second leg includes one or more openings, and the step of joining the windowed portion to the rough opening using one or more fasteners further includes the step of fixing one or more fasteners through one or more openings into the rough opening frame.

[0044] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 15"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the holding system includes a threshold spacer, and further, the step of attaching the frame to the rough opening includes the step of placing the windowed portion on the threshold spacer such that the threshold spacer applies an inclined bias to the windowed portion in the outward direction.

[0045] Mounting bracket

[0046] According to one embodiment ("Embodiment 1"), the windowed section has an interior side and an exterior side and is configured for installation in an opening in a structure. The windowed section comprises a frame having a perimeter, a front part, and a rear part opposite the front part, and a plurality of fixing clips fixed to the outer circumference of the frame, the plurality of fixing clips including a first fixing clip coupled to the perimeter of the frame. The first fixing clip includes a coupling bracket which includes a first leg slidably coupled to the perimeter of the frame so that the coupling bracket can be releasedly locked at a preset depth, and a second leg configured to be fixed to a framework surrounding an opening in the structure.

[0047] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 2"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the coupling bracket may transition between a first stowed position and a second operating position, and the coupling bracket is coupled to the frame by a second leg extending outward from the perimeter of the frame in the second operating position and a second leg extending inward from the perimeter of the frame in the first stowed position.

[0048] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 3"), in addition to Embodiment 2, when the coupling bracket is in the first retracted position, the second leg extends substantially coplanar with the front of the frame.

[0049] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 4"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the first and second legs of the coupling bracket are offset by approximately 90 degrees in the angular direction.

[0050] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 5"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the first fixing clip further includes a carrier bracket that connects a coupling bracket around the frame, the first leg of the coupling bracket being slidably received by the carrier bracket.

[0051] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 6"), in addition to Embodiment 5, the carrier bracket is a separate, independent component that is coupled to the frame of the windowed section.

[0052] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 7"), in addition to Embodiment 5, the carrier bracket is formed as an integral component with the frame of the windowed section.

[0053] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 8"), in addition to Embodiment 5, the carrier bracket includes a retaining member, the first leg of the coupling bracket having a first stopper, and the retaining member is releasably locked at the first stopper so as to be releasably locked by the second leg at a first offset distance relative to the front of the frame in a second operating position.

[0054] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 9"), in addition to Embodiment 8, the first leg of the coupling bracket has a second stopper, and the retaining member is releasably locked at the second stopper so as to releasably lock the coupling bracket in a second operating position by the second leg at a second offset distance greater than the first offset distance relative to the front of the frame.

[0055] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 10"), in addition to Embodiment 9, the second offset distance is approximately 0.125 inches (3.2 millimeters) greater than the first offset distance.

[0056] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 11"), in addition to Embodiment 8, the first leg of the coupling bracket includes a plurality of stoppers at different offset distances along the length of the first leg.

[0057] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 12"), in addition to Embodiment 8, the first leg of the coupling bracket includes at least two rows of retaining clips.

[0058] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 13"), in addition to Embodiment 12, the first retainer includes at least one groove formed through the thickness of the first leg.

[0059] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 14"), in addition to Embodiment 8, the retaining member includes at least one tooth configured to engage releasably with the first retainer.

[0060] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 15"), in addition to Embodiment 8, the retaining member includes a release handle projecting toward the front of the frame, the release handle being operable to be lifted away from the frame to release the retaining member from the first stopper.

[0061] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 16"), in addition to Embodiment 15, the second leg of the coupling bracket includes an opening through the thickness of the second leg, and the release handle is accessible from the inside of the windowed portion through the release opening.

[0062] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 17"), in addition to Embodiment 8, the carrier bracket defines a retaining pocket configured to slidably receive the first leg of the coupling bracket.

[0063] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 18"), in addition to Embodiment 17, the first leg of the coupling bracket has a first edge and a second edge located opposite the first edge, the carrier bracket has a first retaining lip for slidably receiving the first edge and a second retaining lip for slidably receiving the second edge, and a retaining pocket is defined between the first and second retaining lips.

[0064] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 19"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the second leg has at least one fastener opening that is operable to receive a fastener.

[0065] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 20"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the frame has a first side portion extending between the top and bottom of the frame and a second side portion extending between the top and bottom of the frame on the opposite side of the first side portion of the frame, and further, the plurality of fastening clips further include a first pair of fastening clips including a first fastening clip and a second pair of fastening clips, each of the plurality of fastening clips of the first and second pairs of fastening clips being substantially similar, and further, the first pair of fastening clips are fastened around the frame at the first side portion of the frame and the second pair of fastening clips are fastened around the frame at the second side portion of the frame.

[0066] Installation bracket - Installation method

[0067] According to one embodiment ("Embodiment 1"), a method is provided for installing a windowed section in a rough opening in a structure, the structure having an interior and an exterior. The method comprises the steps of: slidably coupling a first leg of a fixing clip coupling bracket around the frame of the windowed section such that the coupling bracket is releasably locked to the front of the frame at a predetermined depth; attaching the windowed section to the rough opening by translating the windowed section outward within the rough opening until a second leg of the coupling bracket contacts a surface facing the interior of the structure; and fixing the second leg of the coupling bracket to the framework of the rough opening.

[0068] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 2"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the method further comprises the step of transitioning the coupling bracket from a first stowed position to a second operating position, wherein the coupling bracket is separated from the frame and re-coupled to the frame in order to transition the second leg from a second stowed position in which the second leg extends inward from the periphery of the frame to a second operating position in which the second leg extends outward from the periphery of the frame.

[0069] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 3"), in addition to Embodiment 2, when the coupling bracket is in the first retracted position, the second leg extends substantially coplanar with the front of the frame.

[0070] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 4"), in addition to Embodiment 2, the method further comprises the step of slidably receiving the first leg of the coupling bracket in the carrier bracket such that the retaining member of the carrier bracket is releasably locked in the first return stop of the coupling bracket, in order to releasably lock the coupling bracket in a second operating position by the second leg at a first offset distance from the front of the frame of the windowed portion.

[0071] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 5"), in addition to Embodiment 4, the first leg of the coupling bracket has a second retaining leg, and the method further comprises the step of slidably receiving the first leg of the coupling bracket in the carrier bracket such that the retaining member slides over the first retaining leg and locks releasably to the second retaining leg, so that the second leg can releasably lock the first fixing clip in a second operating position at a second offset distance greater than a first offset distance from the front of the frame.

[0072] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 6"), in addition to Embodiment 5, the second offset distance is at least 0.125 inches (3.2 millimeters) greater than the first offset distance.

[0073] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 7"), in addition to Embodiment 4, the first retainer includes at least one groove formed through the thickness of the first leg, and the retaining member includes at least one tooth, and the method further comprises the step of releasably engaging the tooth with the groove to releasably lock the coupling bracket in a second operating position.

[0074] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 8"), in addition to Embodiment 4, the retaining member includes a release handle projecting toward the front of the frame, and the method further comprises the step of lifting the release handle away from the frame to release the retaining member from the first stopper.

[0075] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 9"), in addition to Embodiment 8, the second leg of the coupling bracket includes an opening through the thickness of the second leg, and the method further comprises the step of accessing a release handle from the inside of the windowed portion through the opening.

[0076] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 10"), in addition to Embodiment 4, the carrier bracket defines a retaining pocket, and the method further comprises the step of slidably receiving the first leg of the coupling bracket in the retaining pocket in order to slidably receive the first leg of the coupling bracket in the carrier bracket.

[0077] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 11"), in addition to Embodiment 10, the step of slidably receiving the first leg of the coupling bracket in the carrier bracket includes the steps of slidably receiving the first edge of the first leg by a first retaining lip of the carrier bracket and slidably receiving the second edge of the first leg by a second retaining lip of the coupling bracket, wherein the retaining pocket is defined between the first and second retaining lips.

[0078] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 12"), in addition to Embodiment 4, the method further comprises the step of adjusting the installation depth of the fixing clip by adjusting the depth to which the fixing clip slides against the carrier clip.

[0079] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 13"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the step of fixing the second leg of the coupling bracket to the frame of the rough opening includes the step of fixing a fastener through at least one fastener opening in the second leg.

[0080] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 14"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the windowed section includes a first pair of fixing clips and a second pair of fixing clips, each of the fixing clips of the first and second pairs being substantially similar, and includes a coupling bracket, further comprising the first pair of fixing clips being fixed around the frame at a first side of the frame and the second pair of fixing clips being fixed around the frame at a second side of the frame, and the method further comprising the step of fixing the second legs of the coupling brackets of the first and second pairs of fixing clips to the framework of the rough opening.

[0081] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 15"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the method further comprises the step of fixing the drywall via fixing clips so that the inner surface of the drywall is coplanar with the front part of the windowed section frame.

[0082] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 16"), in addition to Embodiment 15, the drywall is 1 / 2 inch (13 millimeters) or 5 / 8 inch (16 millimeters) thick.

[0083] Installation fins

[0084] According to one embodiment ("Embodiment 1"), the windowed section has an interior side and an exterior side and is configured to be installed in an opening in a structure. The windowed section comprises a frame having a perimeter, a front part, and a rear part opposite to the front part of the frame, and a weather seal system fixed around the frame, the weather seal system including a fin assembly configured to transition from a first folding configuration in which the fin assembly protrudes toward the front part of the frame and a second protruding configuration in which the fin assembly protrudes outward relative to the frame, and a retaining assembly that fixes the fin assembly in a releaseable manner in the constrained state by the fin assembly in the first folding configuration.

[0085] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 2"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the retaining assembly includes a retaining clip having a channel insertion portion and a retaining lip.

[0086] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 3"), in addition to Embodiment 2, the front portion of the frame has an accessory channel, and furthermore, the channel insertion portion of the retaining clip is releasably secured within the accessory channel by a retaining lip that is received by the fin assembly to releasably secure the fin assembly in a constrained state.

[0087] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 4"), in addition to Embodiment 3, the retaining lip extends substantially parallel to the channel insertion portion, and the retaining lip and the channel insertion portion define a receptive channel between them.

[0088] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 5"), in addition to Embodiment 2, the retaining clip further includes an insertion stop portion extending substantially perpendicular to the retaining lip channel insertion portion, the insertion stop portion abutting against the outer surface of the frame.

[0089] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 6"), in addition to Embodiment 2, the retaining lip extends along the side of the frame together with a fin assembly that is received between the retaining lip and the side of the frame.

[0090] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 7"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the fin assembly includes a first fin having a coupling portion and a projection portion, with a hinge portion between the coupling portion and the projection portion, the coupling portion being coupled around the frame, and the projection portion being biased to transition from a first folded configuration to a second protruding configuration.

[0091] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 8"), in addition to Embodiment 7, the hinge portion is formed from a first material, and the protruding portion is formed from a second material different from the first material.

[0092] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 9"), in addition to Embodiment 8, the first material of the hinge portion is a first polymer material, and the second material is a second polymer material different from the first polymer material.

[0093] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 10"), in addition to Embodiment 9, the first polymer material is an elastomer material.

[0094] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 11"), in addition to Embodiment 7, the joint, protruding, and hinge parts are co-extruded components.

[0095] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 12"), in addition to Embodiment 7, the first fin is folded into a restrained state at the hinge.

[0096] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 13"), in addition to Embodiment 7, the hinge portion is at least 0.25 inches (6.4 millimeters) wide.

[0097] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 14"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the fin assembly includes a first side fin coupled to a first side of the frame, a second side fin coupled to a second side of the frame, and an upper fin coupled to the top of the frame.

[0098] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 15"), in addition to Embodiment 14, the frame defines a first corner at the intersection of the top of the frame and a first side, and a second corner at the intersection of the top of the frame and a second side, and the fin assembly includes a first corner bridge seal at the first corner and a second corner bridge seal at the second corner, the first corner bridge seal overlapping with the first side fin and the top fin to define a continuous water barrier extending around the frame along the first side, top, and second side, the second corner bridge seal overlapping with the second side fin and the top fin.

[0099] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 16"), in addition to Embodiment 15, the fin assembly includes an upper fin having a coupling portion and a projection portion, with a hinge portion between the coupling portion and the projection portion, wherein the coupling portion is coupled around the frame, and the projection portion is biased by the hinge portion to project radially outward from the frame, and furthermore, the first corner bridge seal overlaps with the hinge portion, coupling portion and projection portion of the upper fin.

[0100] Installation method for mounting fins

[0101] According to one embodiment ("Embodiment 1"), a method is provided for installing a windowed section in an opening in a structure. The method comprises the steps of: inserting the outer side of the windowed section into the rough opening from the inner side of the rough opening; releasing a retaining assembly fixed around the frame of the windowed section from a restrained state so that the weather seal system of the windowed section can transition from a restrained state in which the fin assembly of the weather seal system is compressed toward the frame to an expanded state in which the fin assembly protrudes radially outward from around the frame; and fixing the windowed section in the opening in the structure with a fin assembly that abuts against the outer surface of the structure.

[0102] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 2"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the retaining assembly includes a retaining clip having a channel insertion portion and a retaining lip that holds the fin assembly in a restrained state, and the method further comprises the step of removing the retaining lip from the fin assembly.

[0103] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 3"), in addition to Embodiment 2, the front portion of the frame has an attachment channel, and further, the channel insertion portion of the retaining clip is releasably secured within the attachment channel by a retaining lip received by the fin assembly to releasably secure the fin assembly in a restrained state, and further, the step of releasing the retaining assembly includes the steps of removing the channel insertion portion from the attachment channel and removing the retaining lip from the fin assembly.

[0104] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 4"), in addition to Embodiment 3, the retaining lip extends substantially parallel to the channel insertion portion, the retaining lip and the channel insertion portion define a receptive channel between them, and further, the step of releasing the retaining assembly includes removing a portion of the frame from the receptive channel.

[0105] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 5"), in addition to Embodiment 4, the retaining clip further includes an insertion stop portion extending substantially perpendicular to the retaining lip channel insertion portion, the insertion stop portion abutting against the outer surface of the frame, and the step of releasing the retaining assembly includes the step of separating the insertion stop portion from the outer surface of the frame.

[0106] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 6"), in addition to Embodiment 2, the retaining lip extends along the side of the frame together with a fin assembly that is received between the retaining lip and the side of the frame, and further, the step of releasing the retaining assembly includes the step of releasing the fin assembly from between the retaining lip and the side of the frame.

[0107] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 7"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the fin assembly includes an upper fin having a coupling portion and a projection portion, with a hinge portion between the coupling portion and the projection portion, the coupling portion being coupled around the frame, the projection portion being biased by the hinge portion to project radially outward from the frame, the upper fin being folded in a constrained state at the hinge portion, and further, the step of releasing the retaining assembly includes the step of moving the upper fin to an unfolded state by unfolding at the hinge portion.

[0108] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 8"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the fin assembly includes a first side fin coupled to a first side of the frame, a second side fin coupled to a second side of the frame, and an upper fin coupled to the top of the frame, and further, the step of releasing the retaining assembly includes the steps of unfolding the first and second side fins and unfolding the upper fin.

[0109] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 9"), in addition to Embodiment 8, the frame defines a first corner at the intersection of the top and first side of the frame and a second corner at the intersection of the top and second side of the frame, and the fin assembly includes a first corner bridge seal at the first corner and a second corner bridge seal at the second corner, and further, the step of releasing the retaining assembly includes deploying the first corner bridge seal so that the first corner bridge seal overlaps with the first side fin and the top fin, and deploying the second corner bridge seal so that the second corner bridge seal overlaps with the second side fin and the top fin, in order to define a continuous water barrier extending around the frame along the first side, top and second side of the frame.

[0110] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 10"), in addition to Embodiment 9, the fin assembly includes an upper fin having a coupling portion and a projection portion, with a hinge portion between the coupling portion and the projection portion, wherein the coupling portion is coupled around the frame, and the projection portion is biased by the hinge portion to project radially outward from the frame, and further, after the fin assembly is released, the first corner bridge seal overlaps with the coupling portion, hinge portion and projection portion of the upper fin.

[0111] Edge adjuster

[0112] According to one embodiment ("Embodiment 1"), the windowed section has an interior side and an exterior side and is configured to be installed in an opening in a structure. The windowed section comprises a frame having a first side and a second side, and a perimeter defined by the first and second sides of the frame, the frame further having a front, a rear opposite to the front of the frame, and a first edge adjuster fixed to the first side of the frame, the first edge adjuster including a guide and a first inclined portion, the first edge adjuster defining a longitudinal axis extending between the guide and the first inclined portion, the longitudinal axis extending along the length of the first side of the frame.

[0113] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 2"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the second inclined portion is located on the opposite side of the first inclined portion, and the guide portion is positioned between the first and second inclined portions.

[0114] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 3"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the guide portion includes a sliding surface, a first guide edge on the first side of the sliding surface, and a second guide edge on the second side of the sliding surface.

[0115] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 4"), in addition to Embodiment 3, the sliding surface is recessed relative to the first inclined portion to define the first and second guide edges.

[0116] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 5"), in addition to Embodiment 4, the first and second guide edges are spaced apart by a distance corresponding to a standard shim width.

[0117] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 6"), in addition to Embodiment 4, the first and second guide edges are spaced about 1.5 inches (38 millimeters) apart.

[0118] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 7"), in addition to the features of Embodiment 1, the guide portion includes a fastener opening.

[0119] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 8"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the first inclined portion has a taper in thickness, changing from a first larger thickness to a second smaller thickness in the direction away from the guide portion.

[0120] Edge adjuster installation method

[0121] According to one embodiment ("Embodiment 1"), a method is provided for installing a windowed section in an opening in a structure. The method comprises the steps of: inserting the outer side of the windowed section into the rough opening from the inner side of the rough opening; sliding the shim vertically on the first inclined portion of the first edge adjuster fixed to the first side of the windowed section until the shim is received by the guide portion of the first edge adjuster; inserting the shim to a desired depth; and fixing the windowed section to the opening in the structure.

[0122] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 2"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the first edge adjuster is pre-assembled to the first vertical frame of the windowed section, along with the longitudinal axis of the first edge adjuster that extends along the first vertical frame.

[0123] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 3"), in addition to Embodiment 1, when the shim is received in the guide, the user of the first edge adjuster is provided with a tactile response to the shim sliding within the guide.

[0124] Edge adjuster

[0125] According to one embodiment ("Embodiment 1"), the windowed section has an internal side and an external side and is configured to be installed in an opening in a structure. The windowed section comprises a frame having an upper part, a lower part, a first side having a first adjustment opening, and a second side, the lower part, the first side, and the second side together define the perimeter of the frame, the frame further having a front part, a rear part opposite to the front part of the frame, and a first edge adjuster fixed to the first side of the frame, the first edge adjuster comprising a contact head having a plurality of engagement mechanisms and / or circumferential grooves, and an adjustment body extending from the contact head and received in the first adjustment opening at the first side of the frame, the adjustment body being rotatably operable to adjust the depth of the adjustment body in the adjustment opening, and the contact head defining a projection distance from the first side of the frame based on the depth of the adjustment body in the first adjustment opening.

[0126] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 2"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the adjusting body of the first edge adjuster has a male screw.

[0127] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 3"), in addition to the features of Embodiment 1, the first adjustment opening has a female thread.

[0128] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 4"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the multiple engagement mechanisms of the contact head include multiple radial projections.

[0129] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 5"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the multiple engagement mechanism includes multiple recesses sized to receive the end of a standard flathead screwdriver having a 1 / 4 inch (6.4 mm) head and a shaft length of at least 4 inches (102 mm).

[0130] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 6"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the contact head has a tip that defines a leading contour, and the leading contour is dome-shaped.

[0131] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 7"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the windowed section further comprises a plurality of edge adjusters substantially similar to the first edge adjuster.

[0132] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 8"), in addition to Embodiment 7, the plurality of edge adjusters include a second edge adjuster fixed to the second side of the frame.

[0133] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 9"), in addition to Embodiment 8, the second side of the frame includes a second adjustment opening that receives a second edge adjuster within the second adjustment opening.

[0134] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 10"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the first edge adjuster is located closer to the rear of the windowed section than to the front of the windowed section.

[0135] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 11"), in addition to Embodiment 10, the rear of the windowed section corresponds to the side facing the outside of the windowed section.

[0136] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 12"), in addition to Embodiment 1, a filament is further wound around a circumferential groove, the filament being accessible to the installer for adjusting the depth of the adjustment body within the adjustment opening.

[0137] Edge adjuster installation method

[0138] According to one embodiment ("Embodiment 1"), a method is provided for installing a windowed section in an opening in a structure, wherein the windowed section has an internal side and an external side. The method comprises the steps of inserting the external side of the windowed section into the rough opening from the internal side of the rough opening, and activating a first edge adjuster fixed to a first side of a frame, wherein the first edge adjuster includes a contact head having a plurality of engagement mechanisms and / or circumferential grooves formed in the contact head, and an adjusting body extending from the contact head and receiving in a first adjustment opening on the first side of the frame of the windowed section, wherein the step of activating the first edge adjuster includes rotating the adjusting body so as to decrease the depth of the adjusting body in the first adjustment opening in order to increase the protrusion distance of the contact head from the first side of the frame so that the contact head engages with the edge of the opening in the structure, and fixing the windowed section in the opening in the structure by a weather seal system that abuts the outer surface of the structure.

[0139] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 2"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the adjusting body of the first edge adjuster has a male screw, and the step of operating the first edge adjuster includes the step of screwing the first edge adjuster into the adjustment opening.

[0140] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 3"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the first adjustment opening has a female thread, and the step of operating the first edge adjuster includes the step of screwing the first edge adjuster into the adjustment opening.

[0141] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 4"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the plurality of engagement mechanisms of the contact head include a plurality of radial projections, and the step of acting the first edge adjuster includes the step of engaging with at least one of the plurality of radial projections in order to rotate the adjuster.

[0142] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 5"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the plurality of engagement mechanisms include a plurality of recesses, and the step of acting the first edge adjuster includes the step of engaging the end of a hand tool in one of the plurality of resources to rotate the adjuster.

[0143] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 6"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the contact head has a tip that defines a guide contour, the guide contour being dome-shaped, and furthermore, the dome-shaped head engages with the edge of the opening of the structure when the first edge adjuster is actuated.

[0144] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 7"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the windowed section further comprises a plurality of edge adjusters substantially similar to the first edge adjuster, and the method further includes the step of operating each of the plurality of edge adjusters so that the plurality of edge adjusters contact the edge of an opening in the structure.

[0145] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 8"), in addition to Embodiment 7, the plurality of edge adjusters include a second edge adjuster fixed to a second side of the frame, and the method further includes the step of acting the second edge adjuster so that it contacts a second edge of an opening in the structure.

[0146] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 9"), in addition to Embodiment 8, the second side of the frame includes a second adjustment opening that receives a second edge adjuster within the second adjustment opening.

[0147] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 10"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the first edge adjuster is located closer to the outside of the windowed portion than to the inside of the windowed portion, and furthermore, the contact head engages with the edge of the opening in the structure at a position closer to the outside of the structure than to the inside of the structure.

[0148] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 11"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the method further comprises the step of applying tension to a filament wound around a circumferential groove of a contact head, the filament being tensioned by the installer to adjust the depth of the adjustment body in the adjustment opening.

[0149] Threshold spacer

[0150] According to one embodiment ("Embodiment 1"), the windowed section has an inner and an outer side and is configured to be installed in a rough opening in a structure defined by a rough opening framework, the rough opening having an inner side and an outer side. The windowed section comprises a frame having a front part corresponding to the inner side of the windowed section and a rear part and perimeter corresponding to the outer side of the windowed section, and a sill spacer attached to the bottom of the frame, the sill spacer being positioned overall between the front and rear parts of the frame.

[0151] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 2"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the windowed portion is configured to define a center of gravity between the front and rear of the frame and to contact the sill of the rough opening, and the sill spacer is fixed to the bottom of the frame to define a contact surface located offset inward from the center of gravity of the windowed portion, such that the sill spacer applies an inclination bias to the windowed portion toward the outward side of the rough opening.

[0152] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 3"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the threshold spacer defines a smooth transverse contour.

[0153] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 4"), in addition to the features of Embodiment 1, the threshold spacer has a rounded edge.

[0154] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 5"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the threshold spacer includes a first threshold spacer, and the windowed portion further comprises a second threshold spacer positioned at a distance from the first threshold spacer.

[0155] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 6"), in addition to the features of Embodiment 1, the threshold spacer has a flat top.

[0156] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 7"), in addition to the features of Embodiment 1, the threshold spacer is offset toward the front of the frame relative to the rear of the frame.

[0157] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 8"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the threshold spacer defines a maximum thickness of approximately 1 / 4 inch (6.4 millimeters).

[0158] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 9"), in addition to Embodiment 1, a second threshold spacer is attached to the bottom of the frame.

[0159] Retainer

[0160] According to one embodiment ("Embodiment 1"), the windowed section has an interior side and an exterior side and is configured to be installed in an opening in a structure. The windowed section comprises a frame having a front part, a rear part, an upper part, a lower part, a first side part, and a second side part, the lower part, the first side part, and the second side part together defining the perimeter of the frame, and a retainer is attached to the top of the frame to contact the structure and allow the frame to be inserted into the opening in the structure in a first direction and to resist the frame being removed from the opening in a second direction. The retainer comprises a plurality of parts of different lengths to accommodate the space between the frame and the opening in the structure.

[0161] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 2"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the plurality of parts of different lengths include a plurality of flex arms, each having a first flex arm with a first engaging end and a second flex arm with a second engaging end, wherein the first flex arm is positioned adjacent to the second flex arm in the short direction, and the first flex arm is longer than the second flex arm.

[0162] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 3"), in addition to Embodiment 2, the first and second engaging ends are configured to mechanically engage with the framework of the rough opening.

[0163] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 4"), in addition to Embodiment 2, the retainer is formed from a sheet material.

[0164] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 5"), in addition to Embodiment 2, the retainer is formed as a single, integrated part.

[0165] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 6"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the retainer includes a base fixed to the frame, a flexible arm extending from the base, a stopper extending from the flexible arm, and an engaging mechanism extending from the flexible arm, wherein the retainer is operable such that the flexible arm bends in a first bending direction while the frame is inserted in a first direction, and the flexible arm bends in a second bending direction as the frame moves in a second direction.

[0166] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 7"), in addition to Embodiment 1, the method further comprises a strap member coupled to the top of the frame, the strap member having an elongated body including a plurality of fastener openings operable to receive one or more fasteners.

[0167] According to another embodiment ("Embodiment 8"), in addition to Embodiment 7, the strap member can be bent between a retracted configuration in which the strap member extends downward toward the center of the windowed portion and an extended configuration in which the strap member extends upward away from the center of the windowed portion.

[0168] The embodiments described herein and any additional embodiments described herein should not be read to limit or narrow the scope of any concept of the invention provided by immediate disclosure. While numerous examples are disclosed, further embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this specification and the drawings, which are described by illustrating various examples. Therefore, the drawings and detailed description should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0169] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of this disclosure and, together with explanations that help illustrate the principles of this disclosure, constitute part of and describe embodiments of this specification. [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view from above of the windowed section from the inside, according to several embodiments. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view from below, looking from the inside of the windowed section of Figure 1, according to several embodiments. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is an external perspective view of the windowed section of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is an internal perspective view showing the windowed section of Figure 1 in the first pre-storage or pre-installation configuration according to several embodiments. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows, in isometric view, the fixing clips for the windowed section of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is an isometric view of the carrier bracket of the fixing clip shown in Figure 5 according to several embodiments. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is an isometric view of the carrier bracket of the fixing clip shown in Figure 5 according to several embodiments. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows the backplate of the carrier bracket in Figures 6 and 7 according to several embodiments. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is an isometric view of the receiver of the carrier bracket shown in Figures 6 and 7 according to several embodiments. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows, in isometric view, the coupling bracket of the fixing clip shown in Figure 5 according to several embodiments. [Figure 11A] Figure 11A is an isometric view of the structure of another fixing clip for the windowed section of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. [Figure 11B] Figure 11B is an isometric view of the structure of another fixing clip in the windowed section of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. [Figure 11C] Figure 11C is an isometric view of the structure of another fixing clip in the windowed section of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. Figure 11C is an isometric view of the fixing clip in Figure 11B with the backplate removed according to several embodiments. [Figure 11D] Figure 11D is an isometric view of the structure of another fixing clip for the windowed section of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. Figure 11D shows a bottom view of the coupling bracket of the fixing clip of Figure 11B according to several embodiments. [Figure 11E] Figure 11E is an isometric view of the structure of another fixing clip for the windowed section of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. Figure 11E shows an isometric view of the carrier bracket of the fixing clip of Figure 11B according to several embodiments. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a bottom view of the windowed section of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a bottom perspective view of the windowed section of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is an enlarged view of the lower corner of the windowed section in Figure 1 according to several embodiments. [Figure 15A] Figure 15A shows the sill spacer of the windowed section of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. [Figure 15B] Figure 15B is an isometric view of another structure of the sill spacer for the windowed section of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. [Figure 15C]Figure 15C is a diagram of another structure of the sill spacer for the windowed section of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. [Figure 16A] Figure 16A shows the sill spacer of the windowed section of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. Figure 16A is an end view of the sill spacer of Figure 15A according to several embodiments. [Figure 16B] Figure 16B is an end view of the threshold spacer of Figure 15B according to several embodiments. [Figure 16C] Figure 16C is a diagram of another structure of the sill spacer for the windowed section of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. Figure 16C is an end view of the sill spacer of Figure 15C according to several embodiments. [Figure 17A] Figure 17A shows the sill spacer of the windowed section of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. Figure 17A is a bottom view of the sill spacer of Figure 15A according to several embodiments. [Figure 17C] Figure 17C is a diagram of another structure of the windowed section sill spacer in Figure 1 according to several embodiments. Figure 17C shows the sill spacer in Figure 15C assembled into different sill structures according to several embodiments. [Figure 18A] Figure 18A is an isometric view of the retainer of the windowed portion of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. [Figure 18B] Figure 18B is a diagram of another structure of the windowed retainer of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. [Figure 19A] Figure 19A is a diagram of the windowed retainer of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. Figure 19A is a side view of the retainer of Figure 18A according to several embodiments. [Figure 19B] Figure 19B is a diagram of another structure of the windowed retainer of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. Figure 19B is a side view of the retainer of Figure 18B according to several embodiments. [Figure 20A]Figure 20A is a diagram of the retainer of the windowed section of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. Figure 20A is a schematic diagram illustrating the engagement between the retainer and the head of the rough opening frame when the windowed section of Figure 1 is inserted in the first outward direction according to several embodiments. [Figure 20B] Figure 20B is a diagram of another structure of the retainer for the windowed section of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. Figure 20B is a schematic diagram illustrating the engagement between the retainer and the head of the rough opening frame when the windowed section of Figure 1 is inserted in the first outward direction according to several embodiments. [Figure 21A] Figure 21A shows the retainer of the windowed portion of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. Figure 21A shows the engagement when the windowed portion of Figure 1 is pulled out in the second inward direction according to several embodiments. [Figure 21B] Figure 21B is a diagram of another structure of the retainer of the windowed section of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. Figure 21B shows the engagement when the windowed section of Figure 1 is pulled out in a second inward direction according to several embodiments. [Figure 22] Figure 22 is an end view of the fins of the windowed portion of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. [Figure 23A] Figure 23A is an isometric view of the fin in Figure 22 according to several embodiments. [Figure 23B] Figure 23B is an isometric view of the structure of another fin similar to the fin in Figure 23A according to several embodiments. [Figure 24] Figure 24 is an enlarged view of the corner of the windowed section in Figure 1 according to several embodiments. [Figure 25] Figure 25 is an isometric view of the first corner bridge seal of the windowed section of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. [Figure 26] Figure 26 is an isometric view of the windowed head fin, first and second corner bridge seals of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. [Figure 27] Figure 27 is an enlarged end view of the first corner of the windowed section of Figure 1 with the fin assembly removed, according to several embodiments. [Figure 28]Figure 28 is an enlarged isometric view of the first corner of the windowed section of Figure 1 with the first bridge corner seal removed, according to several embodiments. [Figure 29A] Figure 29A is an enlarged isometric view of the third corner of the windowed section in Figure 1, showing the overlap between the first vertical frame fin and the sill fin in the windowed section according to several embodiments. [Figure 29B] Figure 29B is an enlarged isometric view of the third corner of the windowed section in Figure 1, showing another structure near the intersection of the first vertical frame fin and the sill fin in the windowed section according to several embodiments. [Figure 30] Figure 30 is an isometric view of the windowed section of Figure 1 in storage configurations according to several embodiments. [Figure 31] Figure 31 is an isometric view of the windowed section of Figure 1 in a deployed or installed configuration according to several embodiments. [Figure 32] Figure 32 is an enlarged isometric view of the windowed section of Figure 1 in a storage configuration with multiple retaining clips removed according to several embodiments, showing the first bridge corner seal in the folded configuration. [Figure 33A] Figure 33A illustrates the structure of the retaining clip for the windowed portion of Figure 30 according to several embodiments. Figure 33A is an isometric view of the retaining clip for the windowed portion of Figure 30 according to several embodiments. [Figure 33B] Figure 33B illustrates the structure of another retaining clip for the windowed section of Figure 30 according to several embodiments. Figure 33B is an isometric view of the retaining clip for the windowed section of Figure 30 according to several embodiments. [Figure 34A] Figure 34A illustrates the structure of the retaining clip for the windowed portion of Figure 30 according to several embodiments. Figure 34A is an end view of the retaining clip of Figure 33A according to several embodiments. [Figure 34B] Figure 34B illustrates the structure of another retaining clip in the windowed section of Figure 30 according to several embodiments. Figure 34B is an end view of the retaining clip in Figure 33B according to several embodiments. [Figure 35A]Figure 35A illustrates the structure of the retaining clip for the windowed portion of Figure 30 according to several embodiments. Figure 35A is a cross-sectional view of the head of the windowed portion of Figure 30 according to several embodiments. [Figure 35B] Figure 35B illustrates the structure of another retaining clip for the windowed portion of Figure 30 according to several embodiments. Figure 35B is a cross-sectional view of the head of the windowed portion of Figure 30 according to several embodiments. [Figure 36A] Figure 36A shows the structure of the windowed section adjustment system of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. Figure 36A is an enlarged side view of the windowed section of Figure 1 showing the windowed section adjustment system including an edge adjuster according to several embodiments. [Figure 36B] Figure 36B shows a design of another adjustment system for the windowed section of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. Figure 36B is an enlarged side view of the windowed section of Figure 1 showing an adjustment system for the windowed section including an edge adjuster according to several embodiments. [Figure 37A] Figure 37A shows the structure of the windowed section adjustment system of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. Figure 37A is an isometric view of the edge adjuster of Figure 36A according to several embodiments. [Figure 37B] Figure 37B shows the structure of another adjustment system for the windowed section of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. Figure 37B is an enlarged side view of the windowed section of Figure 36B with the edge adjuster removed to reveal the adjustment opening of the frame of the windowed section according to several embodiments. [Figure 38A] Figure 38A shows the structure of the windowed section adjustment system of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. Figure 38A is a side view of the edge adjuster of Figure 36A according to several embodiments. [Figure 38B] Figure 38B shows the structure of another adjustment system for the windowed section of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. Figure 38B is an isometric view of the edge adjuster of Figure 36B according to several embodiments. [Figure 39A] Figure 39A shows the structure of the windowed section adjustment system of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. Figure 39A is a front view of the edge adjuster of Figure 36A according to several embodiments. [Figure 39B] Figure 39B shows the structure of another adjustment system for the windowed section of Figure 1 according to several embodiments. Figure 39B is an isometric view of the edge adjuster of Figure 36B according to several embodiments. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0170] This disclosure is not intended to be read in a restrictive manner. For example, terms used in this application are intended to be read broadly in the sense that terms in the art belong to such terms.

[0171] With regard to the terminology of inaccuracy, the terms “about” and “approximately” may be used interchangeably to refer to measurements that include a given measurement and also include any measurement that is reasonably close to the given measurement. A measurement that is reasonably close to the given measurement deviates by a moderately small amount from the given measurement, as can be understood and readily confirmed by a person skilled in the art. Such deviations may result from, for example, measurement errors, differences in the scale of measuring and / or manufacturing equipment, human error in reading and / or setting of measurements, fine-tuning made to optimize performance and / or structural parameters in terms of differences in measurements related to other components, particularly implementation scenarios, and inaccurate adjustments and / or manipulation of objects by person or machine. Where it is determined that a person skilled in the art cannot readily confirm the value of such a moderately small difference, the terms “about” and “approximately” may be understood to mean plus or minus 10% of the given value.

[0172] Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that various aspects of this disclosure can be realized by any number of methods and apparatus configured to perform the intended functions. It should also be noted that the accompanying drawings referenced herein are not necessarily drawn to scale and may be enlarged to illustrate various aspects of this disclosure, and in this respect, the drawings should not be construed as limiting.

[0173] The various concepts of this patent specification deal with installation systems and methods for windowed sections such as windows and doors. Some features of such systems and methods include: configured to be positioned in a rough opening (RO) from the inside side of the building structure or wall; eliminating or reducing the need for vertical frames and / or sill spacers; pre-applying sill spacers (e.g., in the factory); pre-applying head stabilizers and / or vertical frame stabilizers for self-stabilization in the rough opening while positioning the windowed section horizontally, vertically, perpendicularly, and / or fixing it; pre-applying for installation of internal units, measured on the inner surface of the rough opening for more precise finish (e.g., drywall and / or trim) offsets. This includes one or more of the following: being attached by fixed clips (e.g., applied in the factory), having no or reduced fasteners used on the exterior side of the windowed section, having an external water barrier (e.g., pop-up fins) pre-installed (e.g., applied in the factory), having retractable and deployable external water barriers (e.g., secured by removable packing clips for shipping / installation), facilitating standard rainproofing tape methods, being configured to be installed by a single person / installer, and allowing internal and external installation work to be performed at different times (e.g., significantly reducing the time between the two types of work).

[0174] In various examples, the windowed section (e.g., windowed section 10) includes a mechanism to facilitate the installation of the windowed section from the inside of the rough opening using a method that can be easily achieved by a single installer. In particular, the windowed section in various examples includes a retaining system coupled to the frame of the windowed section, which is operable to act on the windowed section to maintain a secure engagement between the windowed section and the rough opening frame and to resist removal of the windowed section from the rough opening when the windowed section is inserted into the rough opening from the inside of the rough opening, and to act on a retaining force to resist removal of the windowed section from the rough opening. The retaining system can operate so that the windowed section remains stationary in the rough opening without the use of fasteners to fix the windowed section to the rough opening frame. The windowed section may also include an engagement system coupled to the frame, which is configured to securely engage with the inner surface of the rough opening frame when the windowed section is inserted into the rough opening from the inside of the rough opening. The aforementioned retaining system can then operate to maintain a secure engagement between the retaining system and the rough opening frame without the use of fasteners to fix the windowed section to the rough opening frame when the windowed section is inserted into the rough opening from the inside of the rough opening.

[0175] In this way, a single individual can insert the windowed section into the rough opening (RO) from the inside, without requiring a second person to hold the windowed section against the rough opening frame or to assist in maintaining the position of the windowed section in the rough opening (RO). This holding mechanism also eliminates the need for the installer to use one hand to hold the windowed section against the rough opening frame, freeing up both hands of the installer to secure the windowed section to the rough opening using fasteners such as nails or screws, and / or to perform the installation process of positioning the windowed section horizontally, vertically, and perpendicularly within the rough opening (RO).

[0176] Windowed section Figures 1 to 4 show the windowed section 10 according to several embodiments, where Figure 1 is a perspective view of the windowed section 10 seen from above on the inside side 12, Figure 2 is a perspective view of the windowed section 10 seen from below on the inside side 12, and Figure 3 is a perspective view of the windowed section 10 seen from the outside side 14. Figures 1 to 3 show the windowed section 10 in its final, installed configuration or installation configuration, and Figure 4 shows the windowed section 10 in its initial, retracted or pre-installation configuration (for example, as the installer first receives it).

[0177] As shown in Figure 1, the windowed section 10 has an upper section 20, a lower section 22, a first side section 24, and a second side section 26. The windowed section 10 includes a frame 30 which includes a head 32, a first vertical frame 34, a second vertical frame 36, and a sill 38. The windowed section 10 also includes a panel section or glass section 40 supported by the frame 30. The glass section 40 may be of any of several configurations, but in some embodiments it is an insulated glass (IG) section. As shown in the figure, the windowed section 10 is configured as an opening window, but any of several configurations (fixed, single-hung, double-hung, sunshade, or others) are also possible.

[0178] As shown in the figure, the frame 30 may be a wooden frame (e.g., aluminum-clad wood) structure. However, vinyl, fiberglass, or other materials may be used for the frame 30. The frame 30 also includes an outer perimeter P and has a front surface 42, i.e., an inner surface 42, and a rear surface 44, i.e., an outer surface 44 (Figure 3).

[0179] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the windowed section 10 includes one or more installation mechanisms to facilitate the installation of the windowed section 10. For example, as shown, the windowed section 10 may include one or more of the following installation mechanisms: a fixing clip system 100 (also described as an engagement system), a holding system including a threshold spacer system 200 (Figure 2) and an installation stabilizer system 300 (Figure 1), a weather seal system 400 (Figure 3), and an adjustment system 500 (Figure 1).

[0180] Fixing clip system As shown in Figure 1, the fixing clip system 100 (also described as the engagement system) includes a number of fixing clips 102 that are fixed to the outer circumference P of the frame 30. In particular, the fixing clips 102 are coupled to the first vertical frame 34 and the second vertical frame 36 (for example, three each). As shown in the figure, the fixing clip system 100 includes six fixing clips 102, but more (e.g., six, eight, ten, twelve, etc.) or fewer (e.g., four or two) fixing clips 102 are possible. Generally, embodiments include at least four fixing clips 102, i.e., two upper fixing clips 102 toward the head 32 and two lower fixing clips 102 toward the sill 38. As the dimensions of the windowed section 10 increase, more fixing clips 102 may be provided to help ensure proper fastening of the windowed section 10, where their functionality is described in more detail below.

[0181] When in use, each of the fixing clips 102 may be positioned or measured to an intended depth for installation (e.g., to accommodate the extension of the vertical frame and / or the return of the drywall). The fixing clips 102 can be useful for measuring the windowed section 10 from the inner surface of the rough opening (RO) of the building. This measuring capability can help ensure proper offset for the thickness of the drywall or other wall mechanisms and can help eliminate or reduce problems such as the extension of the vertical frame of the windowed section 10 that "projects" or "recesses" from the inner surface of the finished wall surface (e.g., the interior drywall). The installation resulting from using the fixing clips 102 helps ensure that the extension of the vertical frame is coplanar with the inner surface of the wall (e.g., the interior drywall), thereby making the installation of the trim (e.g., frame) of the windowed section 10 much more efficient for subsequent detailed work (e.g., finishing carpentry).

[0182] In some implementations, the fixing clips 102 are initially provided to the installer (e.g., shipped or delivered to the installer) in a storage configuration, as shown in Figure 4, for example. The installer (not shown) removes, inverts, or rotates a portion of the fixing clip 102 and reinserts a portion of the fixing clip 102 to the desired overall depth by pushing it to engage with the retaining mechanism (e.g., groove) of the fixing clip 102. In various examples, a portion of the fixing clip 102 may be removed by the installer and reinserted without the use of tools. As described above, a typical or average-sized windowed section 10 has four to six fixing clips 102, but fewer or more fixing clips 102 are possible. As part of the installation process, the installer (not shown) inverts (rotates axially) the fixing clips 102 from the position shown in Figure 4 to the positions shown in Figures 1 to 3 as part of the installation preparation work. In some structures, the fixing clip 102 may be adjustable to accommodate different installation depths (e.g., to accommodate internal drywall thicknesses of 1 / 2 inch (13 mm) or 5 / 8 inch (16 mm)).

[0183] The fixing clip 102 may also have different adjustment settings or mechanisms on different parts of the fixing clip 102 so that the fixing clip 102 can be reversed to accommodate different (e.g., larger) adjustment functions. For example, one part of the fixing clip 102 (e.g., one leg) may have a first set of adjustment mechanisms (e.g., to accommodate an offset of 1 / 2 inch (13 mm) or 5 / 8 inch (16 mm) of internal drywall thickness), and another part of the fixing clip 102 (e.g., another leg) may have a second set of adjustment mechanisms (e.g., a number of grooves for adjusting 1 / 8 increments over a desired distance).

[0184] Considering the foregoing, as shown in Figures 1 to 4, the fixing clips 102 may be substantially similar to each other, and may be described cumulatively in relation to the first fixing clip among the fixing clips 102, and one example structure (first fixing clip 102a) is shown in a perspective view in Figure 5.

[0185] As shown in Figure 5, the first fixing clip 102a includes a carrier bracket 110 and a coupling bracket 112, configured to be coupled to the perimeter P (Figure 1) of the frame 30. In some embodiments, the carrier bracket 110 may be bonded to the frame 30 by adhesive, or the carrier bracket 110 may be bonded to the frame 30 via fasteners. However, other mounting methods are possible, including adhesive, heat bonding, integral molding, or other methods. The coupling bracket 112 is fixable to the carrier bracket 110 so that the coupling bracket 112 can be moved between a first storage configuration and a second installation configuration. The first fixing clip 102a is optionally formed from a die-cut metal sheet (e.g., galvanized steel) or other suitable material / manufacturing method. Although the carrier bracket 110 is shown as a component separate from the frame 30 (e.g., pre-installed at a factory or other location away from the installation site), the carrier bracket 110 or its mechanism may be integrally formed with the frame 30 as part of a manufacturing process (e.g., molding, machining, routing, etc.).

[0186] Figures 6 and 7 are separated isometric views of a carrier bracket 110 according to several embodiments. As shown, the carrier bracket 110 includes a back plate 120 and a receiver 122.

[0187] Figure 8 shows isometric views of the backplate 120 according to several embodiments. The backplate 120 is optionally fixed to the receiver 122 using rivets, welding, adhesive, co-casting / molding, or other methods. As shown, in some embodiments, the backplate 120 may be omitted from the carrier bracket 110. Figure 9 shows isometric views of the receiver 122 according to several embodiments.

[0188] As shown in the figure, the carrier bracket 110 defines a retaining pocket 130 for receiving the coupling bracket 112. The carrier bracket 110, more specifically the receiver 122, has a retaining lip 132 and a retaining member 134.

[0189] The retaining lip 132 acts as a guide and retainer beneath which the coupling bracket 112 can slide. The retaining lip 132 and an optional backplate 120 define the retaining pocket 130. If a backplate 120 or similar structure is not included, the retaining pocket 130 may be defined by the receiver 122 and the portion of the windowed section 10 beneath the first fixing clip 102a. The retaining lip 132 may define a first side 132a and a second side 132b toward the edge of the retaining pocket 130 to secure the corresponding portion of the coupling bracket 112.

[0190] The retaining member 134 may be formed by a portion of the retaining lip 132. As shown in Figure 9, the retaining lip 132 includes a pair of notches 140 that form a flexible tab 142 of the elastically flexible retaining member 134. The retaining member 134 further includes a release handle 144 protruding from the flexible tab 142. As shown in Figure 7, the retaining member 134 further includes one or more catches 150, also described as teeth 150 or claws 150, for engaging with the coupling bracket 112. For example, the release handle 144 may be oriented to protrude toward the front, i.e., the inward side, of the frame 30, and the release handle 144 may be operable to be lifted away from the frame 30 to actuate or release the retaining member 134 from the first retaining tab 174 (as shown, for example, in Figure 10).

[0191] During use, the flex tab 142 may bend outward to release or translate one or more catches 150 outward, and once released, the flex tab 142 elastically bends back to its original position. As shown in Figure 8, the back plate 120 may include receiving grooves 152 for receiving the ends of one or more catches 150. These receiving grooves 152 can increase the overall resistance to the pull-out force that the retaining member 134 may exert without being released.

[0192] Figure 10 shows the coupling bracket 112 in isometric view. As shown, the coupling bracket 112 includes a first leg 114 and a second leg 116 extending from the first leg 114 and offset angularly (e.g., approximately at a right angle). The first leg 114 is configured to be slidably received by the carrier bracket 110. The second leg 116 is configured to be fixed to a framework surrounding a rough opening (RO) of the building structure using one or more fasteners (e.g., nails or screws). If necessary, the two legs 114,116 may be reversible in function (both the first and second legs 114,116 are configured to be slidably received by the carrier bracket 110 and both are configured to be fixed to a framework surrounding a rough opening (RO)) (see, for example, the structure shown in Figure 13). As shown in the figure, the first and second legs 114, 116 may have one or more buttresses 160 or other reinforcing mechanisms to help reinforce them against relative bending.

[0193] The second leg 116 of the coupling bracket 112 optionally includes a release opening 162 that passes through the thickness of the second leg 116. As visualized with reference to Figure 5, the release handle 144 is accessible from inside the windowed section 10, i.e., from the front side, through the release opening 162 (e.g., using a screwdriver or other tool). The release opening 162 may also extend into the first leg 114, as shown. The release opening 162 is generally located at the intersection, i.e., the corner, between the first and second legs 114, 116.

[0194] As shown in the figure, the first leg 114 has first and second edges 166, 168 opposite each other, a length, and a tip 170 at one end of the length, which includes an insertion guide portion 172 in the form of a round projection. The insertion guide portion 172 may assist in positioning and inserting the first leg 114 into the carrier bracket 110 when the tip 170 is inserted into the carrier bracket 110. In some embodiments, including embodiments in which the two legs 114, 116 are functionally reversible, the first leg 114 and the second leg 116 may include the insertion guide portion 172. The first leg 114 also has one or more stoppers 174 (a pair of first stoppers 174a as shown) at one or more longitudinal positions along the length of the first leg 114. One or more stoppers 174 may take the form of grooves through the thickness of the first leg 114 as shown, but other configurations (e.g., stoppers of partial depth) may be used. The longitudinal positions of one or more return stops 174 are selected according to the desired offset of the second leg 116 from the front 42 of the frame 30 when the coupling bracket 112 is in the installation configuration. For reference, the possible positions for a pair of second return stops 174b are generally indicated by dashed lines in Figure 10.

[0195] The second leg 116 has one or more fastening openings 180 that are operable to receive one or more fasteners (not shown), such as screws or nails. The second leg 116 also has a length that can be selected to ensure sufficient overlap with the framework surrounding the rough opening (RO) (not shown) so that the fasteners can securely bite into the frame. The fastening openings 180 may be concave or countersunk to allow the screw heads to be mounted flat. In this way, the fasteners will not interfere with the processing of the drywall or other wall installed on the second leg 116. The coupling bracket 112 may be fixed to and removed from the rough opening (RO) without damaging the components of the coupling bracket 112. The coupling bracket 112 may be removed from the rough opening (RO) using standard tools (e.g., a screwdriver). The one or more fastening openings 180 may be positioned at different lengths along the second leg 116 to accommodate differences in the thickness and length of the drywall in the different spaces between the frame 30 and the rough opening (RO).

[0196] In Figure 5, the first fixing clip 102a is in the mounting configuration, and the second leg 116 of the coupling bracket 112 protrudes outward relative to the carrier bracket 110. As shown, the first leg 114 is fully inserted into the retaining pocket 130 such that the retaining lip 132 extends into the first leg 114. As shown, the first side 132a (Figure 9) and the second side 132b (Figure 9) of the retaining lip 132 are positioned toward the edge of the retaining pocket 130 and secured to the edge of the coupling bracket 112. One or more catches 150 (Figure 7), also referred to as teeth 150, engage within one or more retainers 174 (first pair of retainers 174a) of the first leg 114. One or more catches 150 also optionally extend into the receiving grooves 152 (Figure 8) of the backplate 120 to help lock the coupling bracket 112 in place. To release the catch 150 from the retaining arm 174, the user may push or lift the release handle 144 (Figure 7) and bend the flex tab 142, thereby lifting the catch 150 from the retaining arm 174.

[0197] As shown in Figures 1, 2, and 4, the multiple fixing clips 102 are fixed to the frame 30 from the front surface 42 of the frame 30 to a desired depth (for example, the carrier bracket 110 may be mounted coplanar or approximately coplanar with the front surface 42 of the frame 30). The multiple fixing clips 102 are optionally fixed close to the top and bottom of the first and second vertical frames 34, 36, respectively, by two additional fixing clips 102 positioned at intermediate positions on each of the vertical frames 34, 36. In some embodiments, the multiple fixing clips 102 may be arranged along the first and second vertical frames 34, 36 at substantially similar intervals.

[0198] In the installation configurations shown in Figures 1 to 3, each second leg of the coupling bracket 112, including the second leg 116 (Figure 5), protrudes outward from the periphery P (Figure 1) of the frame 30, away from the center of the frame 30. As shown in Figure 4, when in the retracted configuration, each second leg of the fixing clip 102, including the second leg 116 (Figure 5) of the coupling bracket 112, protrudes inward toward the center of the frame 30, away from the periphery P (Figure 1). In some embodiments, when the coupling bracket 112 is in the retracted configuration, the second leg 122 extends substantially coplanar with the front surface 42, i.e., the inner surface 42, of the frame 30.

[0199] Figure 11A shows another structure of the fixing clip 102 in the form of fixing clip 102'. Fixing clip 102' may include a mechanism similar to that of the first fixing clip 102a. As shown, fixing clip 102' has a plurality of pairs of return stoppers 174' along the length of the first leg 114' and a plurality of pairs of return stoppers 175' along the length of the second leg 116'. This allows the first and second legs 114',116' to be reversibly positioned on the carrier bracket 110' of fixing clip 102'. In some examples, the plurality of pairs of return stoppers 174' allow the retaining member 134' to be releasably locked at first and second offset distances from the front of the frame 30 as needed. For example, the second offset distance may be approximately 0.125 inches (3.2 millimeters) greater than the first offset distance, thereby configuring the fixing clip 102' to accommodate different installation depths, for example, wall covers of different thicknesses (e.g., drywall) or windowed section mechanisms (e.g., windowed section or vertical frame extending to a handle). In some embodiments, the fixing clip 102' includes an internal groove along the length of either the first or second leg 114', 116' which acts as a measuring instrument for determining the correct installation depth. Any of several types of stopper configurations may be present. For example, multiple pairs of stoppers 175' are further adjustable over multiple depths in any desired increment (e.g., 0.0625 inches (1.6 millimeters), 0.125 inches (3.2 millimeters), or other). In other embodiments, the number of multiple pairs of stoppers 175' may be minimized to reduce errors in installation.

[0200] In some embodiments, the fixing clip 102' may include one or more coin lines or indent lines 179' that cross the width of the fixing clip 102'. The intended lines may extend between a plurality of pairs of stoppers 175'. The indent lines 179' may be positioned on either the first or second leg 114', 116', which may allow the installer to shorten the length of the fixing clip 102'. For example, after the installer reinserts the coupling bracket 112' into the carrier bracket 110', the coupling bracket 112' may extend very far from the frame 30, which may affect the installation of mechanisms around the windowed section 10, such as additional drywall or paint. To shorten the coupling bracket 112', the installer may bend either the first or second leg 114', 116' back and forth along the indent line 179' so that a portion of the first or second leg 114', 116' is cut and removed. Shortening the coupling bracket 112' may allow for further adjustment of the fixing clip 102'. In some examples, the windowed section 10 has a kit of differently configured fixing clips (not shown) having different lengths and / or stopper positions to correspond to different installation depths. To allow the user to easily select a bracket of the appropriate size for a particular installation depth of the windowed section 10 in a rough opening (RO), the differently configured fixing clips are color-coded, indicated by numbers, letters or symbols, or otherwise identified.

[0201] Figures 11B to 11E show yet another structure of the fixing clip 102 in the form of fixing clip 102”. Fixing clip 102” may include a mechanism similar to that of the first fixing clip 102a or fixing clip 102'. Fixing clip 102” illustrates that various engagement / adjustment mechanisms of fixing clip 102” can be interchanged between the components of the carrier bracket and the coupling bracket. For example, as shown together with fixing clip 102” in other embodiments, instead of the first leg 114” or second leg 116” of fixing clip 102” as shown, multiple retainers 178” are positioned on the carrier bracket 110” of fixing clip 102”.

[0202] As shown in Figure 11B, the fixing clip 102" may include a coupling bracket 112" positioned between the backplate 120" and the carrier bracket 110". The backplate 120" and the carrier bracket 110" may define a retaining pocket between them to receive the coupling bracket 112". In some embodiments, the backplate 120" may be omitted. In some embodiments, the frame 30 may act instead as the backplate 120". Figure 11C shows the fixing clip 102" with the backplate 120" removed.

[0203] As shown in Figure 11E, the carrier bracket 110" may include multiple stoppers 178" or a row of stoppers 178" along the length of the carrier bracket 110". In addition, the stoppers 178" may be formed as recesses (rather than through holes, for example) and may include serrated or sawtoothed contours for better engagement. The serrated or sawtoothed contours may accommodate the locking of the coupling bracket 112" along the row of stoppers 178" to allow the coupling bracket 112" to advance to a desired position.

[0204] As shown in Figures 11C and 11D, the carrier bracket 112" may include a retaining member 134" on the first leg 114" of the fixing clip 102". The retaining member 134" may include one or more catches 150" which are also described as teeth 150" or claws 150" for engaging with the carrier bracket 110" in particular with the retaining latch 178". The teeth 150" or claws 150" may be sized to "catch" in a recess defined by the retaining latch 178" to hold the coupling bracket 112" in a desired position. In the described embodiment, as shown in Figure 11D, the retaining member 134" may include a guide 144" similar to a release handle 144" which may be configured to help guide a tool (e.g., a screwdriver) under the retaining member 134" to release the catches 150" from the retaining latch 178" for adjustment purposes. In addition, or alternatively, the guide section 144" may be configured as a handle similar to the handle 144", and the guide section 144" may be pushed down to achieve a rocker effect that lifts the catch 150" from the stopper 178" for adjustment purposes.

[0205] Although not shown, as in other embodiments, the second leg 116" of the fixing clip 102" may also include a second retaining system (similar to, for example, retaining system 134") so that the first and second legs 114" and 116" are reversibly positioned on the carrier bracket 110" and can engage with a plurality of return stoppers 178"." In some examples, the plurality of return stoppers 178" allow the retaining member 134" to be releasably locked at a plurality of offset distances from the front of the frame 30 as needed. This may accommodate wall covers (e.g., drywall) of different thicknesses in increments including, for example, 0.0625 inches (1.6 mm), 0.125 inches (3.2 mm), or other increments, but not limited to these. Any of the various return stopper configurations may exist to achieve any desired increment.

[0206] Threshold Spacer System Figures 12 to 14 illustrate a mechanism for pre-spacing a windowed section 10 (e.g., "pre-spaced windows") in the form of a sill spacer system 200 on a sill 38. Figures 12 to 14 show the windowed section 10 in a bottom view, a bottom perspective view, and an enlarged side view, respectively. In some embodiments, the sill spacer system 200 provides a convenient mechanism for positioning and horizontally aligning the windowed section 10 inside a rough opening (RO). In some embodiments, the sill spacer system 200 facilitates centering the windowed section 10 within a rough opening (RO) by reducing friction between the frame 30 of the windowed section 10 and the rough opening (RO) when moving relative to each other. The sill spacer system 200 establishes a gap between the rough opening (RO) and the sill 38 to make it easier for the installer to adjust the positioning of the windowed section 10 (e.g., by inserting a pry bar or other tool under the sill 38 of the windowed section 10 to lift and horizontally align it). Standard wooden shims, or other shims, can slide under the sill spacer system 200 to horizontally position the windowed section 10 within the rough opening (RO). As described below, the sill spacer system 200 may be adapted to prevent damage to the sill rainproof tape or other mechanisms at the bottom of the rough opening (RO) frame (for example, the sill spacer system 200 may have "line contact" and / or be round to avoid damage). The pre-installed nature of the sill spacer system 200 also reduces the number of times additional, isolated installation shims (e.g., conventional wooden shims, polymer shims, or others) are required.

[0207] The threshold spacer system 200 includes one or more threshold spacers 202, such as a pair of threshold spacers 202 attached to the bottom of the frame 30 at the threshold 38. Figures 15A, 16A, and 17A illustrate one of the threshold spacers 202 according to several embodiments. Figure 15A is an isometric view, Figure 16A is a side view, or end view, and Figure 17A is a bottom view. As shown, the threshold spacer 202 includes a rounded lower contact surface 210. If necessary, the lower contact surface 210 may have a flattened top 212. Nevertheless, as shown, the threshold spacer 202 defines a smooth contour when viewed from the end, and the threshold spacer 202 has a rounded contour.

[0208] In some embodiments, one or more of the threshold spacers 202 may include a material or coating having a bright color, fluorescence or fluorescent properties, and / or reflective properties. These features of one or more threshold spacers 202 may provide contrast to the frame 30 so that the installer can quickly locate one or more threshold spacers 202 during the installation of the windowed section 10.

[0209] The sill spacer 202 also optionally includes an upper mounting surface 216 having one or more projections 218 and / or grooves 220 configured to fit into a lower mechanism of the sill 38 for easier installation. In some embodiments, the lower part of the sill 38 includes one or more longitudinal projections and / or grooves (Figures 12 and 17C) that accommodate and form a complementary fit with the upper mounting surface 216. In addition, or alternatively, the sill spacer 202 may include one or more openings for receiving fasteners (e.g., screws) passing through them to connect the sill spacer 202 to the sill 38. The one or more openings may be modified to accommodate other types and shapes of fasteners, including but not limited to staples, for connecting the sill spacer 202 to the sill 38. In other embodiments, the sill spacer 202 may be bonded to the sill 38. The sill spacer 202 optionally defines a pre-selected gap width from the rough opening (RO). For example, each threshold spacer 202 may define a maximum thickness of, for example, about 1 / 4 inch (6.4 millimeters). In some embodiments, the threshold spacer 202 defines a maximum thickness of at least 1 / 4 inch (6.4 millimeters), but a variety of dimensions including thinner dimensions are possible.

[0210] As shown in Figures 12 to 14, one or more sill spacers 202 may be pre-installed in the windowed section 10 (e.g., at the manufacturing site) before commencing any on-site installation process. As shown, the sill spacers 202 are positioned overall between the front 42 and rear 44 of the frame 30. At least in this manner, the sill spacer system 200 leaves a continuous gap (e.g., about 1 / 4 inch (6.4 mm)) between the bottom of the frame at the sill 38 and the rough opening (RO). In this way, continuous isolation and / or sealing can be better formed at the sill 38 (e.g., using spray foam or other materials as needed). In some embodiments, a pair of sill spacers 202 are spaced apart from each other and spaced apart from the first side 24 and second side 26 of the windowed section 10.

[0211] As shown in Figures 12 and 13, each of the threshold spacers 202 may extend longitudinally between the first and second sides 24, 26 of the windowed section 10. To ensure proper positioning, the threshold spacers 202 are offset toward the front, i.e., inner surface 42 of the frame 30 with respect to the rear, i.e., outer surface 44 of the frame 30. As shown in Figures 12 and 14, the glass section 40 defines a center of gravity W that roughly corresponds to the plane on which the glass section 40 is installed on the frame 30. The threshold spacers 202 are offset from the center of gravity W toward the inner surface 42 along the inclination axis T, thereby causing the windowed section 10 to tilt or fall outward on the threshold spacers 202. At least in this manner, when the windowed section 10 is at rest on the threshold spacers 202, the windowed section 10, under its own weight, pushes the fixing clip system 100 against the framework surrounding the rough opening (RO). This results in a scenario in which, during installation according to some embodiments, it is not required for the installer (not shown) to push or hold the windowed section 10 in place. Or, in different terms, the windowed section 10 balances itself in the rough opening (RO) so that it remains in the rough opening without falling inward or outward.

[0212] Figures 15B and 16B show another structure of the threshold spacer 202 in the form of threshold spacer 202', where Figure 15B is an isometric view and Figure 16B is an end view. Similar to the structure in Figure 15A, the threshold spacer 202' in Figures 15B and 16B includes a rounded lower contact surface 210'. If necessary, the lower contact surface 210' may have a flattened top 212'. Nevertheless, as shown, the threshold spacer 202' defines a smooth contour when viewed from the end, and the threshold spacer 202' has a rounded contour. The threshold spacer 202' in Figures 15B and 16B also optionally include an upper mounting surface 216' having one or more projections 218' and / or grooves 220' configured to abut against the lower mechanism of the threshold 38 for easier installation. Similar to the structure described above, the threshold spacer 202' optionally defines a pre-selected gap width from the rough opening (RO) (for example, approximately 1 / 4 inch (6.4 mm) and a maximum thickness of at least 1 / 4 inch (6.4 mm)).

[0213] Figures 15C, 16C, and 17C show another structure of the threshold spacer 202 in the form of threshold spacer 202”, where Figure 15C is an isometric view, Figure 16C is an end view, and Figure 17C shows the threshold spacer 202” of Figure 15C coupled to the threshold 38 of the windowed section 10. Similar to the structures in Figures 15A and 15B, the threshold spacer 202” of Figures 15C and 16C includes a rounded lower contact surface 210”. If necessary, the lower contact surface 210” may have a flattened top 212”. Nevertheless, as shown, the threshold spacer 202” defines a smooth contour when viewed from the end, and the threshold spacer 202” has a rounded contour. The sill spacer 202” in Figures 15B and 16B also optionally includes an upper mounting surface 216” having one or more projections 218” and / or grooves 220” configured to abut against the lower mechanism of the sill 38 in order to facilitate installation. As shown, the upper mounting surface 216” defines a layered, or staggered, upper surface. Similar to the previously described structure, the spacer 202” optionally defines a pre-selected gap width from the rough opening (RO) (e.g., about 1 / 4 inch (6.4 mm), defining a maximum thickness of at least 1 / 4 inch (6.4 mm)). As shown in Figure 17C, the layered, or staggered, contour of the upper mounting surface 216” helps to facilitate engagement of the sill spacer 202” with the contour of the sill, which may be stepped, angled, or inclined for fixing.

[0214] Installation stabilizer system As shown in Figure 1, the installation stabilizer system 300 includes at least one retainer 302, also referred to as a stabilizer clip 302. The retainer 302 is optionally applied at a location away from the installation site (e.g., a manufacturing facility) before any installation process being commenced. As shown, the retainer 302 is located above the head 32 of the fenestrated section 10. The retainer 302 is optionally formed as a die-cut and / or cut piece of metal that is bent for shaping.

[0215] Figure 18A is an isometric or perspective view, and Figure 19A is a side view of one structure of the retainer 302 according to several embodiments. Figures 18A and 19A show the retainer 302 in a natural, unbiased state. Generally, the retainer 302 is configured to allow the frame 30 to be inserted into a rough opening (RO) of a structure (not shown) in a first insertion direction D1 (Figure 20A), and to resist the removal of the frame 30 from the opening in a second removal direction D2 (Figure 21A).

[0216] As shown in Figure 19A, the retainer 302 includes a base 310 configured to be fixed to the frame 30 (Figure 1), and a plurality of flex arms 312 extending from the base 310 each include an engagement mechanism 316 at the end of the flex arm 312. In some embodiments, the base 310 may be bonded or fixed to the frame 30 by adhesive, or it may be bonded to the frame 30 via fasteners. However, other mounting methods are possible. As shown in Figure 18A, the plurality of flex arms 312 include first to fourth flex arms, but any number of flex arms (one, two, three, five, etc.) is possible. As shown, the plurality of flex arms 312 may be of different lengths to accommodate different spaces or ranges of space sizes between the frame 30 and the header of the rough opening (RO).

[0217] The retainer 302 optionally includes a strap member (similar to, for example, the strap member 302a in Figure 18B) extending rearward from the base 310. The strap member optionally includes a plurality of fastener openings for receiving one or more fasteners (e.g., screws or nails). The strap member may generally be bendable between a retraction configuration extending toward the center of the windowed portion 10 and an extension configuration extending upward away from the center of the windowed portion 10.

[0218] As shown in Figure 18A, the engagement mechanism 316 of the multiple flex arms 312 each includes an engagement edge 316a (Figure 18A) which includes one or more sharp edges or teeth for biting into (e.g., two protruding teeth), i.e., for friction engagement with the header H (Figure 20A) of the rough opening (RO) framework. In different terms, the engagement mechanism 316 includes one or more teeth configured to bite into the material defining the rough opening (RO) as the frame moves inward (e.g., D2). In some embodiments, the sharp edges or teeth are cuts in the material (e.g., a metallic material) that can be sharp with or without additional mechanical sharpening.

[0219] As shown in Figures 20A and 21A, in various embodiments, during the insertion of the frame 30 in the first insertion direction D1, one or more flex arms 312 of the retainer 302 (e.g., the first flex arm 312a if a large gap exists, or all four flex arms 312 if a very small gap exists between the header H and the frame 30) bend or flex in the first bending direction as the frame 30 moves in the second removal direction D2, so that the flex arms 312 bend in the second bending direction to resist the movement of the frame 30 in the second direction D2 (e.g., toward the interior).

[0220] In some embodiments, the retainer 302 is configured to be fixed in a constrained state (compressed downward) so that the retainer 302 is compressed flat against the frame 30. The retainer 302 may be held in the constrained state using a fastening member (e.g., tape). The fastening member may be removed to release the retainer 302 into an unfolded state so that the retainer 302 protrudes outward from the frame 30 (for example, in a manner similar to that shown in Figure 1).

[0221] Figure 20A is a schematic diagram of a retainer 302 engaged with the header H of the rough opening (RO) frame. As shown in Figure 20A, the fenestrated section 10 is configured to slide outward, i.e., in a first insertion direction D1, and to be inserted from the inside of the rough opening RO, and the retainer 302, specifically the flex arm 312, functions as a spring that bends to compress in the height direction when the engaging edge 316a of the engaging mechanism 316 bites into the header H. The retainer 302 may self-deploy against the header H of the rough opening (RO) frame during installation without operation or intervention by the installer. As shown in Figure 20A, during compression, the engaging mechanism 316 slides against the header H. This compression and sliding motion allows the retainer 302, and thereby the fenestrated section 10, to be inserted outward, i.e., in the first insertion direction D1, with relatively low resistance to the first insertion. In various embodiments, the engaging edge 316a does not bite into the header H, or when it slides across the header H, it prevents the engaging edge 316a from sliding. This may be due to the angle of the engaging edge 316a. For example, the insertion force, i.e., the force required to move in the first direction D1, may be less than or equal to 1 pound (4.4 N), greater than 1 pound (4.4 N), greater than 10 pounds (44 N), or greater than 15 pounds (67 N). Generally, the windowed section 10 is tilted or inclined outward to a position for final installation during insertion in the first direction D1.

[0222] Figure 21A shows the retainer 302 deforming and resisting movement as the windowed section 12 and the retainer 302 move inward, i.e., in the second extraction direction D2. As shown, when the engaging edge 316a of the engaging mechanism 316 bites into the head H and restricts the sliding of the engaging mechanism 316 against the header H, the flex arm 312 rotates backward or bends upward (or downward, not shown). In some examples, the flex arm 312 bends or flexes as a result of the movement. For example, the extraction or tilting force, i.e., the force required to move in the second direction D2 after installation, may be less than 1 pound (4.4 N), greater than 1 pound (4.4 N), more than 10 pounds (44 N), at least 15 pounds (67 N), or more than 15 pounds (67 N). In some examples, the extraction force is more than 80 pounds (356 N), or approximately 88 pounds (391 N). Generally, the higher withdrawal or tilting force required (compared to, for example, the insertion force) helps ensure that the fenestrated section 10 remains in place after being inserted into the rough opening (RO) to allow for subsequent horizontal positioning and / or fixing procedures. The ability of the retainer 302 to resist movement in the second withdrawal direction D2 may help prevent the fenestrated section 10 from falling out of the rough opening (RO) inward.

[0223] In the embodiment, the insertion force, withdrawal force, or holding force can be determined using a force gauge positioned perpendicular to the vertical plane of the window section 10, approximately 8 inches (203 mm) from the top of the window section 10, along the vertical centerline of the window section 10, on the outside of the window section 10. For the holding force, the force gauge may be pushed inward until the window section 10 is pushed out of the rough opening (RO) so that the force gauge obtains the maximum force for holding.

[0224] When the fennel section 10 is inserted into the rough opening (RO), the retainer 302 compresses and engages (e.g., bites into) the header H of the rough opening (RO), optionally applying a certain degree of downward force to the fennel section 10. The function of the retainer 302 may help stabilize the fennel section 10 in the rough opening (RO) so as to help ensure that the fennel section 10 does not fall inward (i.e., resists removal in the second removal direction D2). This self-holding or stabilizing mechanism helps enable a single installer (not shown) to complete the task of positioning the fennel section 10 horizontally and centrally without having to hold it in the rough opening (RO). If present, the threshold spacer system 200 may also contribute to this self-holding / stabilizing function. As shown, the retainer 302 is compressible, thereby adjusting and fitting to a range of typical gap sizes between the head 32 and the header H of the rough opening (RO). In addition, the retainer 302 is flexible in the short direction and is formed from a spring-like material, allowing for lateral adjustment of the fenestrated section 10 and horizontal positioning of the fenestrated section 10 within the rough opening (RO) without substantially hindering the process.

[0225] In some embodiments, the fennel section 10 may be removed from the rough opening (RO) without damaging the retainer 302. The fennel section 10 may be lifted upward by the threshold 38 (e.g., manually or with a tool) so that the retainer 302 is further compressed toward the header H of the rough opening (RO) frame. The fennel section 10 may then be rotated inward from the rough opening (RO). This movement allows for the controlled release of the fennel section 10 from the rough opening (RO) without requiring special tools and without damaging the retainer 302. The retainer 302 may be reused when the fennel section 10 is reinstalled in the rough opening (RO).

[0226] Figure 18B is an isometric or perspective view, and Figure 19B is a side view of another structure of retainer 302 in a form of retainer 302', which is also described as stabilizer clip 302' in some other embodiments. Figures 18B and 19B show retainer 302' in a natural, unbiased state. Generally, retainer 302' is configured to allow frame 30 to be inserted into a rough opening (RO) of a structure (not shown) in a first insertion direction D1, and to resist the removal of frame 30 from the opening in a second removal direction D2.

[0227] As shown in Figure 19B, the retainer 302' includes a base 310' fixed to the frame 30, a plurality of flex arms 312' extending from the base 310', a stop arm 314' extending from the flex arms 312', and an engagement mechanism 316' extending from the flex arms 312' and / or the stop arm 314'. As shown in Figures 20B and 21B, in various embodiments, the retainer 302' is operable such that when the frame 30 is inserted in a first insertion direction D1, the flex arms 312' bend in a first bending direction, and when the frame 30 is moved in a second removal direction D2, the flex arms 312' bend in a second bending direction. As shown in Figure 18B, the retainer 302' optionally includes a strap member 302a' extending rearward from the base 310'.

[0228] As shown in Figure 18B, the strap member 302a' optionally includes a plurality of fastening openings for receiving one or more fasteners (e.g., screws or nails). The strap member 302a' may generally be bendable between a retractable configuration extending toward the center of the windowed section 10 and an extended configuration extending upward away from the center of the windowed section 10.

[0229] As shown in Figure 19B, the base 310' includes a lower segment 310a' and a return segment 310b'. The flex arm 312' includes a sliding segment 312a', an extension segment 312b', a lever segment 312c', and a rear segment 312d'. The stop arm 314' also terminates with a bent end 314a'. The engagement mechanism 316' also includes an engagement edge 316a' (Figure 18B) which includes one or more sharp edges or teeth for biting into or frictionally engaging with the header H (Figure 20B) of the rough opening (RO) framework. In different terms, the engagement mechanism 316' includes one or more teeth configured to bite into the material defining the rough opening (RO) as the frame moves inward (e.g., D2).

[0230] As shown in the figure, the return segment 310b' extends into a portion of the lower segment 310a'. The lever segment 312c' extends from the return segment 310b' (at an intermediate position on the base 310' as shown in the figure). The rear segment 312d' extends downward from the lever segment 312c', and the sliding segment 312a' extends from the rear segment 312d' beyond the rear segment 312d' to the engagement mechanism 316'. The stop arm 314' extends from the engagement mechanism 316' and / or the extension segment 312b' toward the lower segment 310a' (outward, i.e., toward the rear). In some embodiments, the retainer 302' is configured to be fixed in a constrained state (compressed downward) such that the retainer 302' is compressed flat against the frame 30. The retainer 302' may be held in the constrained state using a fixing member (e.g., tape). The fixing member may be removed to release the retainer 302' into an unfolded state, so that the retainer 302' protrudes outward from the frame 30, as shown in Figure 1.

[0231] Figure 20B is a schematic diagram of a retainer 302' that engages with the header H of the rough opening (RO) framework. As shown in Figure 20B, the windowed portion 10 is configured to slide outward, i.e., in a first insertion direction D1, and to be inserted from the inside of the rough opening RO. The retainer 302', specifically the flex arm 312' and the stop arm 314', functions as a spring that compresses in the height direction when the engaging edge 316a' of the engaging mechanism 316' bites into the header H. As shown in Figure 20B, during compression, the highest point at the intersection of the extension segment 312b' and the stop arm moves downward, as does the highest point at the intersection of the lever segment 312c' and the sliding segment 312a'. The lever segment 312c' rotates forward and downward, and the sliding segment 312a' and the stop arm 314' slide outward (for example, relative to the base 310'). This compression and sliding mechanism allows the retainer 302', and thereby the windowed portion 10, to be inserted outward, i.e., in the first insertion direction D1, resulting in relatively low resistance to the first insertion. In various embodiments, the engaging edge 316a does not bite into the header H, or prevents the engaging edge 316a from sliding when it is slid across the header H. This may be due to the angle of the engaging edge 316a.

[0232] Figure 21B shows the retainer 302' deforming and resisting movement as the windowed portion 10 and the retainer 302' move inward, i.e., in the second extraction direction D2. As shown, the lever segment 312c' rotates backward or bends upward when the engaging edge 316a' of the engaging mechanism 316' bites into the head H, suppressing the sliding of the engaging mechanism 316' against the header H. In some examples, the stop arm 314' bends (e.g., curves) as a result of the movement of the lever segment 312c', further increasing resistance to further movement inward, i.e., in the second extraction direction D2. In other words, the stop arm 314' is operable to engage with the base 310' after the flex arm 312' has bent in the second bending direction in order to suppress further bending of the flex arm 312'.

[0233] When the fennel section 10 is inserted into the rough opening (RO), the retainer 302' compresses and engages (e.g., bites into) the header H of the rough opening (RO), applying a downward force to the fennel section 10. The function of the retainer 302' may help stabilize the fennel section 10 in the rough opening (RO) so that it does not fall inward (i.e., resists removal in the second removal direction D2). This self-holding or stabilizing mechanism helps enable a single installer (not shown) to complete the task of positioning the fennel section 10 horizontally and centered in the rough opening (RO) without having to hold it in place. If present, a threshold spacer system 200 (Figures 12-17C) may also contribute to this self-holding / stabilizing function. As shown, the retainer 302' is compressible, thereby adjusting and fitting to a range of typical gap sizes between the head 32 and the header H of the rough opening (RO). In addition, the retainer 302' is flexible in the short direction and is formed from a spring-like material, allowing for lateral adjustment of the fenestrated section 10 and horizontal positioning of the fenestrated section 10 within the rough opening (RO) without substantially hindering the process.

[0234] In various examples, one or more retainers 302, 302' are fixed to one or more parts of the windowed section 10 (e.g., the frame 30), while in other examples, similarly designed retainers 302, 302' are optionally fixed to a framework surrounding a rough opening (RO) and engage with the windowed section 10 when the windowed section 10 is positioned in the rough opening (RO).

[0235] Weather seal system As shown in Figure 1, another aspect of the present invention is a weather seal system 400 that may be applied remotely (e.g., at the manufacturing site) and acts as an external water barrier. The weather seal system 400 may be biased to a deployed state or may be described as a “pop-up” fin. In various examples, the weather seal system 400 is initially supplied (e.g., shipped or transported to the installation site) in a retracted or flattened configuration relative to the frame 30 of the fennel section 10. This flattened or retracted position may be described as the “180° position”. The weather seal system 400 may be held in the retracted position by a retaining assembly, as described below. After the fennel section 10 has been installed and secured (e.g., using one or more fasteners such as screws or nails), the original installer (not shown) or another installer may separately proceed to the outside of the rough opening (RO) to remove the retaining assembly and move the weather seal system 400 into the deployed state. In some examples, when the retaining assembly is removed, the weather seal system 400 automatically pops out or protrudes from the frame 30 (for example, at approximately 90°) so that it comes to rest against the outer surface of the wall where the rough opening (RO) is formed. As described below, the weather seal system 400 may include three-dimensional corner seals (for example, applied and welded, bonded, or otherwise attached at the factory) on the head pop-up fins to provide protection against water ingress.

[0236] In various examples, no fasteners (e.g., screws or nails) are used on the exterior side of the windowed section 10 (for example, the windowed section 10 is secured entirely from the interior side of the rough opening (RO)). To seal the windowed section 10 to the outer surface of the wall in which the rough opening (RO) is formed, the weather seal system 400 may be covered and rainproof tape or other treatment may be applied around the windowed section 10. In various examples, the outer surface of the wall may include a weather barrier (e.g., Tyvek® HomeWrap, available from DuPont de Nemours).

[0237] FIG. 1 shows a weather seal system 400 from an internal view. As shown, the weather seal system 400 includes a fin assembly 410 that is biased outwardly to project radially outward from around the frame 30 when unrestrained and is fixed. FIG. 4 shows a windowed portion 10 having various installation mechanisms in a storage configuration. As shown in FIG. 4, the weather seal system 400 also includes a retaining assembly 412 that releasably secures the fin assembly 410 in a constrained state such that the fin assembly 410 is compressed toward the frame 30 in the storage configuration.

[0238] As shown in FIG. 3, the fin assembly 410 includes a plurality of fins 420 including a head fin 420a (also described as an upper fin 420a), a first longitudinal frame fin 420b, a second longitudinal frame fin 420c, and a sill fin 420d. As shown in FIG. 3, the fin assembly 410 also optionally includes a first corner bridge seal 430 and a second corner bridge seal 432. Optionally, a third corner bridge seal may be positioned between the first longitudinal frame fin 420b and the sill fin 420d, and a fourth corner bridge seal may be positioned between the second longitudinal frame fin 420c and the sill fin 420d.

[0239] FIG. 22 is an end view, FIG. 23A is an isometric view of one of a plurality of fins 420 (each may have a substantially similar structure with different lengths to correspond to portions of the frame 30 to which it is attached). As shown, each of the plurality of fins 420 has a coupling portion 440 and a protrusion 442, and has a hinge portion 446 between the coupling portion 440 and the protrusion 442. The coupling portion 440 is coupled to the outer periphery P (FIG. 1) of the frame 30, and the protrusion 442 may be biased by the hinge portion 446 to protrude radially outward from the outer periphery P of the frame 30 by the hinge portion 446. In some embodiments, the coupling portion 440 may be coupled to the frame 30 by adhesion to the frame 30. However, other attachment methods including any of the foregoing methods are contemplated. In some embodiments, the hinge portion 446 is formed from a first material, and the protrusion 442 is formed from a second material different from the first material. The first material of the hinge portion 446 may be a first polymer material, and the second material may be a second polymer material different from the first polymer material. Generally, the first material may be more flexible than the second polymer material (e.g., the first material is essentially elastic and the second material is generally less elastic or inelastic). In terms of manufacturing, the coupling portion 440, the protrusion 442, and the hinge portion 446 may be co-extruded or co-molded parts.

[0240] In some embodiments, the first material may be a variety of materials, for example, a nitrile thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) such as sold under the trade name Auroraflex® by Aurora Plastics. In some embodiments, the second material may be a variety of materials, for example, a glass or mineral filled polypropylene, or a thermoplastic polyolefin such as sold under the trade name RAVATUF® 400X by Ravago Manufacturing Americas.

[0241] As shown in the figure, the joint 440 includes an elongated, relatively flat, thin rectangular base 450 and a mounting mechanism 452 extending (for example, vertically) from the base 450. The mounting mechanism 452 is configured to be inserted into a complementary mechanism (e.g., an accessory channel or groove) of the frame 30 to secure the fin 420 to the frame 30. The mounting mechanism 452 may have barbed projections that are flexible and allow the mounting mechanism 452 to be inserted into the complementary mechanism of the frame 30 but resist being removed. The mounting mechanism 452 may also be described as a “Christmas tree” configuration and may be formed from first and second materials, the second material forming the base or trunk of the mounting mechanism 452 and the first material forming the flexible branches of the mounting mechanism 452.

[0242] The projection 442 also includes a slender, relatively flat, and thin body 458. As shown in the figure, the projection 442 may substantially lack any suitable openings or openings for receiving fasteners such as nails or screws for attaching the projection 442 to the framework of the rough opening (RO) or to the wall of the building in which the windowed section 10 is installed. In various examples, the projection 442 does not need to include such a mechanism so that the multiple fins 420 do not provide substantial structural support, but an alternative mechanism is primarily designed to provide an external water barrier function.

[0243] The hinge portion 446 is located between the coupling portion 440 and the projection portion 442, and is coupled to each of them. The hinge portion 446 is configured to bend between a folded state, having the projection portion 442 folded relative to the coupling portion 440, and an extended state, having the projection portion 442 extending away from the coupling portion 440 at an angle between the coupling portion 440 and the projection portion 442, such as 90 degrees or greater than 90 degrees (e.g., 90 degrees, or 100 degrees), as shown in Figures 22 and 23A. The hinge portion 446 has a width selected to allow the projection portion 442 and the coupling portion to move not only angularly relative to each other, but also in the short direction for smaller and larger short-direction offsets.

[0244] For example, by having a small portion of the hinge portion 446 that protrudes vertically at a 90-degree position, the edges of the joint portion 440 and the protrusion portion 442 define a relatively small short-side offset from each other (in the inward-outward direction when installed). Alternatively, by having a wider portion of the hinge portion 446 that extends in the short-side direction (inward-outward direction when installed), the edges of the joint portion 440 and the protrusion portion 442 have a larger short-side offset from each other. In this way, the hinge portion 446 provides the function of a fin 420 to accommodate variations in wall thickness when the windowed portion 10 is installed in a rough opening (RO). In some embodiments, the hinge portion 446 is at least 1 / 8 inch (3.2 mm), 1 / 4 inch (6.4 mm), 3 / 8 inch (9.5 mm), or 1 / 2 inch (13 mm) wide to facilitate a sufficient depth fit for the fin 420.

[0245] Figure 23B shows another variation in the structure applicable to one, some, or all of the fins 420', as shown as fin 420'. As shown, the base 440' is slightly narrower in the structure shown in Figure 23B compared to the structure in Figure 23A. Furthermore, the projection 442' includes a plurality of dimples 442a' formed on the outer surface of the projection 442' (i.e., the surface that projects away from the building surface to which the projection 442' ultimately abuts). These dimples 442a' have thickness and project from the rear side of the projection 442' to serve to form a gap or space, also described as a standoff, between a particular fin 420' and the surface to which the fin 420' ultimately abuts. The structure in Figure 23B is typically applied to a fin 420 corresponding to a sill 38 of a windowed section 10, and helps ensure that external air, or more specifically external air pressure, can pass under the sill 38 and through the air / water barrier between the sill 38 and the rough opening (RO). However, the standoff does not impede the water-repellent ability of the fin 420' and helps ensure a watertight installation. As shown in the figure, the dimples 442a' are arranged in a staggered pattern along the length of the fin 420'. Each of the dimples 442a' is shown to have a rounded dome-shaped contour, but any of a variety of shapes (e.g., cruciform, square, rhombus, or other patterns and shapes and combinations thereof) are possible. The dimples 442a' may be incorporated into the fin 420' by cold forming, molding, or other methods.

[0246] In addition, as shown in Figure 23B, the fin 420' optionally includes an edge seal 450a' in the form of a more flexible or soft (e.g., elastomer) material configured to help ensure that water does not penetrate between the fin 420' and the frame 30 of the windowed section 10. The edge seal 450a' generally extends along the length of the base 450'.

[0247] Figure 24 shows an enlarged view of the first corner of the frame 30 in Figure 1, defined at the intersection of the head 32 and the first longitudinal frame 34 of the frame 30 (the frame 30 also defines a second corner at the intersection of the head 32 and the second longitudinal frame 36 of the frame 30). As shown, the first corner bridge seal 430 is located at the first corner and provides a transition between the head fin 420a and the first longitudinal frame fin 420b (the second corner bridge seal 432 is similarly located at the second corner and similarly provides a transition between the head fin 420a and the second longitudinal frame fin 420c).

[0248] Figure 25 is an isometric view of the first corner bridge seal 430, and in various embodiments, the second corner bridge seal 432 is substantially similar to the first corner bridge seal 430. As shown, the first corner bridge seal 430 includes a trough 460 in the form of an L-shaped flange formed by two flat webs of material, and a hood 462 in the form of a flat web of material extending from the trough 460 in a plane perpendicular to it. The first corner bridge seal 430 may be formed of a substantially flexible material (e.g., an elastomer) so that it can be folded like a fin 420. For example, the hood 462 and / or the trough 460 may be substantially flexible (e.g., an elastomer) and elastically deformable.

[0249] Figure 26 shows the first and second corner bridge seals 430, 432 assembled on the head fin 420a. As shown, the trough portion 460 of the first corner bridge seal 430 is coupled to the joint portion 440 and the hinge portion 446 of the head fin 420a. In some examples, the hood portion 462 is also fixed to the projection 442 of the head fin 420a. The second corner bridge seal 432 is optionally fixed to the head fin 420a at the opposite end from the first corner bridge seal 430. At least in this way, the water flow to the head fin 420a is directed to the first and second corner bridge seals 430, 432 along the first and second vertical frame fins 420b, 420c, respectively. Along these lines, the first corner bridge seal 430 is optionally fixed to the first vertical frame fin 420b. For example, the hood portion 462 may be optionally fixed to the protruding portion of the first vertical frame fin 420b. The gutter portion 460 may also be optionally fixed to the joint portion of the first vertical frame fin 420b. The second corner bridge seal 432 may similarly be fixed to the second vertical frame fin 420c.

[0250] Figure 27 shows an enlarged view of the first corner of the frame 30 in Figure 1, and shows a complementary edge mechanism 470 (e.g., an attached channel or groove) extending around the outer circumference P of the frame 30 formed on the outer edge of the frame 30. As previously mentioned, the joints of the multiple fins 420 are coupled (inserted) into the complementary edge mechanism 470 to secure the multiple fins 420 around the outer circumference P of the frame 30.

[0251] Figure 28 is an enlarged view of the first corner, showing the head fin 420a and the first vertical frame fin 420b fixed to the complementary edge mechanism 470 (Figure 27), and the first corner bridge seal 430 is not shown. Figure 29A is an enlarged view of the third corner of the frame 30, defined at the intersection of the sill 38 of the frame 30 and the first vertical frame 30 (for example, shown in Figure 1). Similarly, the fourth corner of the frame 30 is defined at the intersection of the sill 38 of the frame 30 and the second vertical frame 30. As shown, in some structures, the first vertical frame fin 420b and the sill fin 420d overlap but are not fixed to each other, and there are no corner bridge seals to which they are fixed. The second vertical frame fin 420c and the sill fin 420d may be similarly positioned and configured relative to each other at the fourth corner described above. However, Figure 29B shows another embodiment in which the first vertical frame fin 420b and the sill fin 420d are both secured using a corner bridge seal 430a similar to that of the corner bridge seal 430. The second vertical frame fin 420c is optionally secured to the sill fin 420d in the same way using another corner bridge seal as needed.

[0252] In short, as shown in Figure 3, the fin assembly 410 includes a head fin 420a fixed to or coupled to the head 32 of the frame 30, a first vertical frame fin 420b coupled to or fixed to the first vertical frame 34 of the frame, a second vertical frame fin 420c coupled to the second vertical frame 36 of the frame, and a sill fin 420d coupled to the sill 38 of the frame 30. Also, as shown in Figure 3, to define a continuous water barrier extending around the outer periphery P of the frame 30 along the first vertical frame 34, the head 32, and the second vertical frame 36, the first corner bridge seal 430 overlaps the first side fin 420b and the upper fin 420a, and the second corner bridge seal 432 overlaps the second side fin 420c and the upper fin 420a. Next, the first vertical frame fin 420b and the second vertical frame fin 420c overlap the sill fin 420d.

[0253] Figure 30 shows the windowed section 10 in a storage configuration, where a plurality of fins 420 (Figure 3) are folded outward and a retaining assembly 412 holds the plurality of fins in a storage configuration. According to some embodiments, the retaining assembly 412 includes a plurality of retaining clips 480, such as a head clip 480a, a first vertical frame clip 480b, a second vertical frame clip 480c, and a threshold clip 480d. Figure 31 shows the windowed section 10 after the retaining assembly 412 has been removed, allowing the plurality of fins 420 to be deployed and moved into an operational or installation configuration. The retaining clips 480 are used optionally, but in other embodiments, an adhesive (e.g., tape or paint) may be used in addition to, or alternatively to, temporarily securing the plurality of fins 420 in the folded configuration. For example, a pressure-sensitive adhesive set may be applied. In such an example, the adhesive may be removed from the plurality of fins 420 without damaging the plurality of fins 420. Alternatively, cardboard, paperboard, or other material in the shape of "C" or "F" may be used to replace one or more of the retaining clips 480.

[0254] Figure 32 is an enlarged view of the first corner having a head fin 420a, a first vertical frame fin 420b, and a first corner bridge seal 432 folded into a storage configuration. As shown, the first corner bridge seal 432 may be folded over itself so as not to protrude or extend substantially from the outer circumference P of the frame 30.

[0255] Figure 33A is a partial view of one length of a retaining clip 480 according to the first structure, and each of the retaining clips 480 (e.g., head clip 480a, first vertical frame clip 480b, second vertical frame clip 480c, and sill clip 480d) may be substantially similar in design (except that they have a length appropriate for holding each of the multiple fins 420 in the storage configuration). Figure 34A is a cross section of the retaining clip 480 shown in Figure 33A. As shown in Figure 34A, the retaining clip 480 includes a first channel insertion portion 482, a first retaining lip 486, and a second retaining lip 488. As shown, the first channel insertion portion 482 is substantially parallel to the first retaining lip 486 and is connected to each other (e.g., defining a "C" shape in cross section). The retaining clip 480 may extend to a length close to the portion of the frame 30 on which it is installed (e.g., head 32, first vertical frame 34, second vertical frame 36, and sill 38). Alternatively, the length of each retaining clip 480 may be divided into one or more smaller individual clips rather than a single long clip.

[0256] The retaining clip 480 is elastically deformable so that it can be attached to the frame 30, for example, by friction fitting. In some embodiments, the retaining clip 480 is formed from a polymer material such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The channel insertion portion 482 may include a return, projection, or protrusion to help assist in mechanical engagement with a complementary surface mechanism (e.g., an attached channel or groove) formed on the frame 30. The retaining lip 486 may include a rounded or hooked end to help provide a positive bias to a portion of the frame 30. The second retaining lip 488 may extend or project substantially perpendicular to the channel insertion portion 482 and the first retaining lip 486. The retaining lip 486 extends substantially parallel to the channel insertion portion 482, and the first retaining lip 486 and the channel insertion portion 482 define a receiving channel 489 between them. The second retaining lip 488 may optionally act as an insertion stop portion extending substantially perpendicular to the first retaining lip 486 and the first channel insertion portion 482, and may optionally be configured to abut against the rear surface (i.e., outer surface) of the frame 30 when the retaining clip 480 is assembled to the frame 30.

[0257] For example, Figure 35A is a cross-sectional view at the head 32 of the frame 30 showing one of the retaining clips 480 according to the structure of Figure 33A, the head retaining clip 480a is releasably engaged with a complementary surface mechanism 490 (e.g., an attached channel or groove) formed on the rear surface 44, i.e., the outer surface 44, of the frame 30 toward the outer circumference P, particularly at the head 32. For reference, the complementary surface mechanism 490 is optionally formed on each of the head 32, the first vertical frame 34, the second vertical frame 36, and the sill 38 of the frame 30. As shown, the first channel insertion portion 482 is releasably engaged with the complementary surface mechanism 490, and the second channel insertion portion 484 is positioned along the outer surface 44 and engages therewith. Next, the first retaining lip 486 extends to the head fin 420a, particularly to the projection 442, to hold the projection 442 folded relative to the joint 440. The second retaining lip 488 extends along the rear surface 44. Generally, the first retaining lip 486 extends along the side of the frame 30, and the fins 420 of the fin assembly 412 are received between the retaining lip 486 and the side or outer circumference P of the frame 30.

[0258] Each of the retaining clips 480 may be similarly fixed around the frame 30 to hold a plurality of fins 420 in a retracted position. In different terms, the channel insertion portions of the retaining clips 484, 484 are releasably fixed to complementary mechanisms 490 (e.g., auxiliary channels) of the frame 30, and the retaining lips 486, 488 are received by the fin assembly 410 to releasably fix the fins 420 in a constrained or retracted configuration.

[0259] Each retaining clip 480 may be reusable so that it can be removed and reinstalled around the frame 30 without damaging the retaining clip 480. The retaining clips 480 may also be installed and removed without damaging the multiple fins 420 or corner bridge seals 430, 432. The retaining clips 480 may be removed and reinstalled manually without the use of special tools.

[0260] Figure 33B is a partial view of one length of a retaining clip 480 in a different structure shown as a retaining clip 480' according to several embodiments, where each of the retaining clips 480' (e.g., a head clip 480a', a first vertical frame clip 480b', a second vertical frame clip 480c', and a threshold clip 480d') may be substantially similar to one another (except having a length appropriate for holding each of the multiple fins 420 in the storage configuration). Figure 34B is a cross section of the retaining clip 480' shown in Figure 33B. As shown in Figure 34B, the retaining clip 480' includes a first channel insertion portion 482' and a second channel insertion portion 484' and a first retaining lip 486' and a second retaining lip 488'. As shown, the first and second channel insertion portions 482', 484' are substantially orthogonal, and the first and second retaining lips 486', 488' are similarly orthogonal and offset. The retaining clips 480' may extend to a length close to the portion of the frame 30 on which they are installed (head 32, first vertical frame 34, second vertical frame 36, and sill 38). Alternatively, the length of each retaining clip 480' may be divided into one or more smaller individual clips rather than a single long clip.

[0261] The retaining clip 480’ is elastically deformable so that it can be attached to the frame 30, for example, by friction fitting. In some embodiments, the retaining clip 480’ is formed from a polymeric material such as, for example, polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The channel insertion portions 482’, 484’ may include returns, protrusions, or projections to assist in mechanical engagement with complementary surface features (such as attached channels or grooves) formed in the frame 30. The retaining lips 486’, 488’ may include rounded, curved, or hooked ends to serve to provide a positive bias against a portion of the frame 30. The first retaining lip 486’ extends substantially parallel to the first channel insertion portion 482’, and the first retaining lip 486’ and the first channel insertion portion 482’ define a receiving channel 489’ therebetween. The second retaining lip 488’ optionally acts as an insertion stop extending substantially perpendicular to the first retaining lip 486’ and the first channel insertion portion 482’ and may be optionally configured to abut against the rear face of the frame 30 when the retaining clip 480’ is assembled to the frame 30.

[0262] For example, Figure 35B is a cross-sectional view of the frame 30 at the head 32 showing one of the retaining clips 480', the head retaining clip 480a' is releasably engaged with a complementary surface mechanism 490' (e.g., an attached channel or groove) formed on the rear surface 44, i.e., the outer surface 44, of the frame 30 toward the outer circumference P, particularly at the head 32. For reference, the complementary surface mechanism 490' is optionally formed on each of the head 32, the first vertical frame 34, the second vertical frame 36, and the sill 38 of the frame 30. As shown, the first channel insertion portion 482' is releasably engaged with the complementary surface mechanism 490, and the second channel insertion portion 484' is positioned along the outer surface 44 and engages therewith. Next, the first retaining lip 486' extends to the head fin 420a, particularly to the projection 442, to hold the projection 442 folded relative to the joint 440. The second retaining lip 488' extends along the rear surface 44. Generally, the first retaining lip 486' extends along the side of the frame 30, and the fins 420 of the fin assembly 412 are received between the retaining lip 486' and the side or outer circumference P of the frame 30.

[0263] Each of the retaining clips 480' may be similarly fixed around the frame 30 to hold a plurality of fins 420 in a retracted position. In different terms, the channel insertion portions 482', 484' of the retaining clips are releasably fixed to complementary mechanisms 490' (e.g., auxiliary channels) of the frame 30, and the retaining lips 486', 488' are received by the fin assembly 410 to releasably fix the fins 420 in a constrained or retracted configuration.

[0264] Adjustment system Figure 36A shows an enlarged view of the first vertical frame 34 (Figure 1), and a part of the adjustment system 500 fixed to the first vertical frame 34, in particular the edge adjuster 502a of a plurality of edge adjusters according to the first structure. The adjustment system 500 may function to help straighten the vertical frames 34, 35 in order to help form a more uniform appearance between the sash and the frame 30. In various examples, by performing this function, the adjustment system 500 helps to improve the weather sealing ability of the windowed section 10, for example, by further forming a sash that has weatherstrip contact with the frame 30.

[0265] Multiple edge adjusters may be substantially similar to the first edge adjuster 502a (Figure 36A) fixed to the first vertical frame 34. For example, the second edge adjuster 502b may be fixed to the second vertical frame 36 of the frame 30 (for example, at the position shown in Figure 2 for edge adjuster 502b). Any number of edge adjusters 502 can be considered at any number of positions on the frame 30. Figure 37A shows an enlarged isometric view of the first edge adjuster 502a removed from the frame 30 to show additional details. Figures 38A and 39A are front and side views of the edge adjuster 502a of Figure 36A.

[0266] As shown in the figure, the first edge adjuster 502a includes a guide portion 504 and a first inclined portion 506 and a second inclined portion 508. The first edge adjuster 502a defines a longitudinal axis extending between the first and second inclined portions 506 and 508. The guide portion 504 is positioned between the first and second inclined portions 506 and 508 and includes a sliding surface 504a and a first guide edge 504b and a second guide edge 504c. The sliding surface 504a is recessed (for example, relative to the first and second inclined portions 506 and 508) to define the first and second guide edges 504b and 504c. The first and second guide edges 504b and 504c are optionally spaced apart at a distance corresponding to the width of a standard wood, composite, or polymer shim (e.g., 1.5 inches (38 millimeters)). As shown in the figure, the guide section 504 optionally includes a fastener opening 505 (for example, for screws or bolts). The fastener opening 505 may be used to attach the frame 30 to the rough opening (RO) using fasteners and / or to secure the first edge adjuster 502a to the frame 30 (for example, one of the vertical frames 34, 36). In addition, or alternatively, one or more edge adjusters 502 may be bonded or secured to the frame 30 by adhesive to the frame 30.

[0267] The first and second inclined sections 506 and 508 each have a taper in thickness, from the first being thicker to the second being thinner, in the direction away from the guide section 504. When in use, the first edge adjuster 502a is assembled to the first vertical frame 34 along with a longitudinal axis extending along the first vertical frame 34. Once the windowed section 10 is received in the rough opening (RO), the shim (not shown) slides in either an upward or downward direction along the first or second inclined section 506 and 508, respectively, until the shim passes into the guide section 504. In some examples, a user (not shown) feels a tactile response to the shim sliding in a predetermined position within the guide section 504. In this regard, the shim can be driven into the gap between the first edge adjuster 502a and the first vertical frame of the rough opening (RO). This shimming action may help reinforce the first vertical frame 34 of the windowed section 10. Any number of edge adjusters (for example, having a structure similar to the first edge adjuster 502a) may be coupled to the periphery P of the frame 30, such as the first and second vertical frames 34, 36, (for example, at a location away from the installation site).

[0268] Figure 36B shows another enlarged view of the first vertical frame 34 and a plurality of edge adjusters 502 by a different structure, in particular shown as edge adjusters 502', which are part of the adjustment system 500' fixed to the first vertical frame 34. The plurality of edge adjusters 502' include a first edge adjuster 502a' (Figure 36B) fixed to the first vertical frame 34 and a second edge adjuster 502b' (similar to 502b in Figure 2) fixed to the second vertical frame 36 of the frame 30. The plurality of edge adjusters 502' are optionally substantially similar. Figure 37B shows an enlarged view of Figure 36B with the first edge adjuster 502a' removed to show the first adjustment opening 510a' among a plurality of adjustment openings included in the frame 30. As shown, the first adjustment opening 510a' is formed in the first vertical frame 34. Although not shown, the second vertical frame 36 includes a similar adjustment opening (not shown) to which the second edge adjuster 502b' can be fixed. Any number of edge adjusters 502' may be included along with their corresponding adjustment openings 510'.

[0269] Figure 38B is a first isometric view of one of the edge adjusters 502', and Figure 39B is a second isometric view of the edge adjuster 502'. As shown, the edge adjuster 502' includes a contact head 511' having a plurality of engagement mechanisms 512', and an adjuster 520' extending from the contact head 511' and configured to be received in an adjustment opening 510' (e.g., a first adjustment opening 510') in the frame 30. The adjuster 520' is rotatably operable to adjust the depth of the adjuster 520' within the adjustment opening 510'. The contact head defines the projection distance from the frame 30 based on the depth of the adjuster 520' within the adjustment opening 510'.

[0270] In some embodiments, the adjusting body 520' of the edge adjuster 502' may have a male thread, and the adjusting opening 510' may have a complementary female thread. Thus, the adjusting body 520' may be rotatably adjusted (e.g., screwed in or out) to adjust the distance the contact head 511' protrudes from the frame 30. For example, the multiple engagement mechanisms 512' of the contact head 511' may include multiple radial projections 530' having multiple recesses 532' between the multiple projections. In some examples, the recesses may be sized to engage with the end (e.g., tip) of a standard flathead screwdriver (e.g., having a 1 / 4 inch (6.4 mm) head and a shaft length of at least 4 inches (102 mm)). The contact head 511' may have a terminal or free end defining a guide contour, which is dome-shaped.

[0271] As shown in the figure, the contact head 511' may include a circumferential groove 534' (Figure 39B). An elongated filament (e.g., twisted thread or braid) may be wrapped around the contact head 511' and around the circumferential groove 534'. To extend the contact head 511', the contact head 511' can be rotated by pulling an elongated filament (not shown), and the contact head 511' can be extended by unscrewing the adjuster 520'.

[0272] In various examples, the first edge adjuster 502a' is located closer to the rear, i.e., the outer surface 44, of the windowed section 10 than to the front 42 of the windowed section 10. In this way, the installer (not shown) can insert a screwdriver or other tool into the gap between the windowed section 10 and the frame of the rough opening (RO), engage the tool with the edge adjusters 502, 502', rotate the edge adjuster 502' with the tool, and engage the edge adjuster 502' (particularly the contact head 511') with the frame of the rough opening (RO). In other examples, the installer may pull an elongated filament (not shown) that is wrapped around the contact head 511' and wrapped around the circumferential groove 534' to adjust the depth of the first edge adjuster 502', i.e., the amount the contact head 511' extends from the frame 30.

[0273] Installation method The installation of the windowed section 10 may proceed taking into consideration the various concepts described in the preceding section. In particular, the installation of the windowed section 10 in the rough opening (RO) may proceed from the inside of the rough opening (RO), and may be carried out by a single installer from the inside of the rough opening.

[0274] As part of the installation process, a rough opening (RO) in the building structure is prepared for the installation of the windowed section 10. Generally, the rough opening (RO) is 1 / 2 inch (13 mm) to 3 / 4 inch (19 mm) larger than the windowed section 10 in both width and height, although other configurations may be appropriate. Some methods also include the step of forming the rough opening (RO) by cutting out the rough opening (e.g., plywood cladding to cover the rough opening framework). The sill portion (lower framework) of the rough opening (RO) framework may be protected from rain (e.g., using appropriate rainproof tape).

[0275] Next, the windowed section 10 is partially unfolded from the retracted configuration to the operating configuration. In particular, the fixing clip 102 (or fixing clip 102') is transitioned to the installation configuration by removing the coupling bracket 112 from the carrier bracket 110, rotating it 180 degrees so that it does not extend inward toward the center of the windowed section 10, and then reinserting the coupling bracket 112 into the carrier bracket 110 so that the coupling bracket protrudes radially outward from the outer circumference P of the frame 30. When the coupling bracket 112 is fully inserted into the carrier bracket 110, the catch 150 engages with the retaining clip 174. In various examples, this engagement produces an audible "click" or noise that provides a clear audible signal to the installer that the coupling bracket 112 is properly secured at the desired insertion depth. This audible signal may be amplified by adjusting the spring bias and material selection for the fixing clip 102. The "click" or vibration may also be present as tactile feedback to inform the user that the coupling bracket 112 is properly installed. Various details regarding the insertion depth and assembly of the coupling bracket 112 are provided in the preceding section.

[0276] Preferably, in various implementations, no tools are required for the aforementioned steps. In other words, the removal, reversal, reinsertion, and coupling / assembly of the retaining clip 102 can be achieved manually. If it is desirable to remove the coupling bracket 112 from the carrier bracket 110 after the catch 150 has engaged with the retaining clip 174, the user may lift the catch 150 from the retaining clip 174 (for example, manually and / or by using a tool such as a screwdriver as described above), and then the coupling bracket 112 may be pulled out.

[0277] The windowed section 10 is inserted into the rough opening (RO) from the inside, for example, by a single installer. The windowed section 10 may be passed through the rough opening (RO) from the outside and then repositioned, pushed, or pulled outward to place the windowed section, but this is generally less desirable. Conventional installation of windowed sections requires at least one installer on the outside of the rough opening (RO) and / or at least one installer on the inside of the rough opening (RO), so the ability and function of installing the windowed section from the inside can be an important feature of the windowed section 10.

[0278] In some embodiments, the fennel section 10 is inserted into the rough opening (RO) by first inserting the lower part of the fennel section 10 into the rough opening (RO), and then tilting the fennel section 10 toward the outside of the rough opening (RO) so that the retaining system acts a retaining force on the fennel section 10 to maintain a secure engagement between the fennel section 10 and the framework of the rough opening (RO). The installation stabilizer system 300 enables the insertion of the fennel section 10 into the rough opening (RO) in a first inward-to-outward direction with a first insertion force, and resists the removal of the fennel section from the opening in a second outward-to-inward direction with a second removal force, the second removal force being substantially greater than the first insertion force. The method includes the step of inserting the fennel section 10 into the rough opening (RO) in a first direction with a force that satisfies or exceeds the insertion force. The retainer 302 of the installation stabilizer system 300 may engage with the header H of the rough opening (RO) frame so as to generate noise that provides the installer with a clear audible signal that the retainer 302 is properly engaged. In some embodiments, the retainer 302 and the fixing clip 102 together provide the installer with an audible signal that the windowed section 10 is engaged within the rough opening (RO) frame and properly positioned within the rough opening (RO).

[0279] The windowed section 10 is pushed into the rough opening (RO) until the fixing clip 102 engages with the edge of the rough opening (RO), particularly the vertical frame portion of the rough opening frame. Once the windowed section 10 is inserted into the rough opening (RO), the retaining system applies a retaining force to the windowed section 10 to maintain a secure engagement between the windowed section 10 and the rough opening (RO) frame. The retaining system applies this retaining force without using fasteners to fix the windowed section 10 to the rough opening frame. The fixing clip 102 acts as an engagement system that securely engages with the inner surface of the rough opening frame from the inside of the rough opening (RO), and once inserted, the retaining system operates to maintain a secure engagement between the engagement system and the rough opening frame (RO).

[0280] For example, as described above, when the windowed section 10 is stationary at the threshold of the rough opening frame and the installation stabilizer system 300 engages with the header H of the rough opening frame, the threshold spacer system 200 provides an offset inclination bias toward the outside of the rough opening (RO), as described above. When the stabilizer system 300 automatically engages with the head H, there is resistance to inserting the windowed section 10 into the rough opening (RO), but this resistance can be easily overcome by a single installer, and the resistance to pulling the windowed section 10 out of the rough opening (RO) becomes substantially greater, preventing accidental removal or preventing the windowed section 10 from falling out of the rough opening (RO).

[0281] If necessary, the strap member 302a' of the retainer 302' (or a similar mechanism of the retainer 302) may be reoriented (e.g., bent) to project upward away from the windowed portion 10 relative to the head H of the rough opening frame. The strap member 302a' may then be fixed (e.g., screwed or nailed) to the rough opening frame to further ensure that the windowed portion 10 is held securely in place.

[0282] Next, the windowed section 10 is centered in the rough opening (RO). In some embodiments, the windowed section 10 is positioned at a desired distance from the sill portion of the rough opening frame by the thickness of the sill spacer 202. In some embodiments, this distance is approximately 1 / 4 inch (6.4 mm). The windowed section 10 may also be centered laterally by inserting a screwdriver having a standard head (e.g., a head with a thickness of 1 / 4 inch (6.4 mm)) and rotating the screwdriver to ensure that the minimum desired gap is achieved in the first and second vertical frames 34, 36. To initiate the shimming / horizontal positioning process, a spirit level is used to check the horizontal level of the windowed section 10, and a single shim is slid under the lower sill spacer 202 to initiate the horizontal positioning of the windowed section 10. Additional shims may be applied as needed to periodically measure the horizontal level at the sill 38 as needed to achieve the desired level and sill spacing.

[0283] Once the desired horizontal alignment and spacing are achieved at the threshold of the windowed section 10, fasteners (e.g., screws or nails) are driven into the rough opening frame through the first fixing clip 102a and the second fixing clip 102b, which correspond to the two lowest clips of the windowed section 10.

[0284] Next, the windowed section 10 may remain vertically positioned, perpendicular to the frame of the rough opening (RO). For example, the user may position one of the first vertical frame 34 and the second vertical frame 36 at a vertical level. This operation of adjusting the vertical level of the first vertical frame 34 and / or the second vertical frame 36 may be performed using a tool (e.g., a crowbar or pry bar) to adjust the vertical position of the vertical frames 34,36. In addition, or alternatively, the installer may use an airbag designed for the purpose of filling the gap between the vertical frames 34,36 and the rough opening frame, and thereby being inflatable to adjust its vertical level, or other suitable method may be implemented as needed. Once positioned at a vertical level, the remaining fixing clips 102 are secured to the rough opening frame until all fixing clips 102 are attached to the rough opening frame using one or more fasteners so that the windowed section 10 is structurally secured to the rough opening (RO).

[0285] In some embodiments, the installer adjusts the adjustment system 500 to engage with the framework (vertical frame portion) of the rough opening (RO). The deployment or adjustment of the adjustment system 500 may be performed to help ensure that any torsional forces on the frame 30 (e.g., during high winds such as those encountered in a hurricane) do not twist or deform the frame 30 so as not to break during such events. In various examples, the adjustment of the adjustment system 500 using edge adjusters 502, 502' (e.g., shimming or engagement with the rough opening (RO)) proceeds from the outside of the windowed section 10. Since the edge adjusters 502, 502' are positioned and biased toward the outside of the windowed section 10, external access and adjustment can be facilitated. External installation of the shims and / or access to the contact heads 511' can be facilitated by an external approach depending on the structure, but according to various embodiments, the installer may access them from either side (inside and / or outside) of the windowed section 10.

[0286] The installer may apply an air sealing material (e.g., spray foam or other air sealing material) around the outer circumference P of the fennel section 10 in the gap between the rough opening (RO) frame and the fennel section 10 to form an internal air seal. This internal air seal may be continuous and not substantially or completely interrupted. Typically, an internal air seal is required for proper water management. As previously stated, the positioning of the threshold spacer system 200 helps to provide a gap large enough for the air sealing material to be positioned in the gap, and also provides a continuous gap around the fennel section 10 to ensure that a continuous seal is formed. This sealing work is typically performed from the inside of the rough opening (RO). In particular, the sealing material may be applied before or after the external water barrier process described below in relation to the weather seal system 400.

[0287] In contrast to other methods and systems, in this respect, the windowed section 10 is positioned perpendicularly and vertically throughout and is firmly fixed to the rough opening (RO) from the inside of the rough opening (RO). This may be achieved by a single installer rather than requiring two installers. At that time, or later as needed, the same installer or another installer may proceed to the outside of the rough opening (RO) to complete the installation of the external water barrier for the windowed section 10 of the rough opening (RO). This is in contrast to conventional nail-fin installations, which require the presence of a second installer on the outside of the rough opening (RO) during the installation of the windowed section 10.

[0288] The step of forming an external water barrier for the installation section 10 includes removing the retaining clips 480 so that the plurality of fins 420 transition from a retracted state to an installation or deployment configuration in which they protrude radially outward. In various operations, in order to ensure that the plurality of fins 420 (or fins 420') are properly deployed, the threshold retaining clip 480d is removed first, followed by the first and second vertical frame retaining clips 480b, 480c, and finally the head retaining clip 480a. This ordering helps to ensure proper overlap between the plurality of fins and the first and second corner bridge seals 430, 432, with the threshold fin 420d overlapping outward with the first and second vertical frame fins 420b, 420c.

[0289] Generally, no fasteners are used on the multiple fins 420, which may be in contrast to conventional nailed fins. Such fasteners (e.g., screws or nails) are not present in various examples, but such fasteners may be implemented in other embodiments (e.g., the embodiment in Figure 23B). Nevertheless, installation proceeds by using rainproof tape or other suitable rainproof material to protect the first and second vertical frame fins 420b, 420c and the head fin 420a from rain. Generally, a weatherproof barrier (e.g., Tyvek® HomeWrap, available from DuPont de Nemours) is present on the exterior wall of the building, cut at two 45-degree cuts at the head corner of the rough opening, and folded perpendicular to itself. Once the first and second vertical frame fins 420b, 420c and the head fin 420a are rainproof, the weather barrier may fold back over the head fin 420a, and rainproofing (e.g., rainproofing tape) may be applied across the 45-degree cut at the corner. In various examples, rainproofing (e.g., rainproofing tape) is not applied to the sill fin 420d. The absence of a seal at the sill 38 of this frame 30 helps to ensure that the sill fin 420d acts as a water barrier at the sill 38 but not an air seal. This water barrier configuration, which is not an air barrier, promotes equalization of air pressure between the position below the sill 38 and the outside of the sealing material of the rough opening relative to the outside air pressure. This equalization relative to the outside air pressure can help prevent water from being forced through the water seal at the sill 38 during storms or other events that bring high outside air pressure.

[0290] According to the exemplary systems and methods described above, various advantages can be achieved. Various examples include being more efficient (e.g., cycle time is reduced by more than 50%), easier to learn, easier to remember, easier to train, requiring less physical effort (e.g., the windowed section 10 is not located on uneven ground or on an external side requiring a ladder), it is impossible for the windowed section 10 to fall outside during installation, it can be installed by a single person from inside the building structure, it is not necessary for the interior and exterior installation work to be carried out simultaneously, the quality of the installation of the windowed section 10 and the performance of the windowed section 10 after installation are improved, it provides industry-specific installation methods and offers many benefits to installers, it speeds up the cycle time, it improves performance (water and air penetration), it adapts to variations in wall depth, it simplifies the installation of frames for finishing carpenters, and it separates the interior and exterior work so that it is carried out "independently," and may be one or more of these.

[0291] The invention of this application has been described above in general and with respect to specific embodiments. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in embodiments without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, embodiments are intended to cover modifications and variations of the invention, within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A windowed section having an inner and an outer side, wherein the windowed section is configured to be installed in a rough opening in a structure defined by a rough opening framework, the rough opening having an inner side and an outer side, the rough opening framework having an inner surface and an outer surface opposite to the inner surface, and the windowed section, A frame with a surrounding area, A retaining system coupled to the frame, which, when the windowed portion is inserted into the rough opening so that the windowed portion remains stationary in the rough opening without the use of fasteners, is operable to apply a retaining force to the rough opening frame to maintain a secure engagement between the windowed portion and the rough opening frame and to resist the removal of the windowed portion from the rough opening frame, wherein the retaining system is adjustable to accommodate the space between the rough opening frame and the frame, A windowed section equipped with a window.

2. The windowed portion according to claim 1, wherein the frame has an upper part, a lower part, a first side part, and a second side part that together define the periphery of the frame.

3. The windowed portion according to claim 2, wherein the holding system is coupled to at least one of the upper part and the lower part of the frame.

4. The windowed section according to claim 1, wherein the frame is a main frame or a subframe.

5. The windowed section according to claim 1, further comprising a glass section coupled to the frame.

6. The windowed portion according to claim 1, wherein the holding system is configured to be preferentially inserted into the rough opening from the inside side of the rough opening.

7. The windowed portion according to claim 1, wherein the holding force is approximately 1 pound (4.4 N) or more.

8. The windowed portion according to claim 1, wherein the holding force is at least 10 pounds (44 N).

9. The windowed portion according to claim 1, wherein the holding system includes a threshold spacer configured to apply an inclined bias to the windowed portion toward the outside of the rough opening.

10. The windowed portion defines a center of gravity, and the sill spacer is fixed to the lower part of the frame to define a contact surface located at an offset position toward the inside of the windowed portion with respect to the center of gravity of the windowed portion, thereby, when the contact surface is stationary at the sill portion of the rough opening frame, the sill spacer applies the inclination bias to the windowed portion toward the outside of the rough opening, as described in claim 9.

11. The windowed portion according to claim 10, wherein the threshold spacer has a circular cross-sectional contour.

12. The windowed portion according to claim 11, wherein the contact surface defines a top, and the top is substantially flat.

13. The windowed portion according to claim 1, wherein the retaining system includes a retainer configured to allow the windowed portion to be inserted into the rough opening in a first direction with a first insertion force, and to resist the removal of the windowed portion from the opening in a second direction with a second removal force.

14. The windowed portion according to claim 13, wherein the extraction force is substantially greater than the insertion force.

15. The windowed portion according to claim 13, wherein the retainer is coupled to the upper part of the frame such that the retainer mechanically engages with the header portion of the rough opening frame.

16. The windowed portion according to claim 13, wherein the retainer includes a plurality of flexible arms, each having a first engaging end and a second engaging end, the first flexible arm being positioned adjacent to the second flexible arm in the short direction, and the first flexible arm being longer than the second flexible arm.

17. The windowed portion according to claim 16, wherein the first engaging end and the second engaging end are configured to mechanically engage with the frame of the rough opening.

18. The windowed portion according to claim 13, wherein the retainer includes a base fixed to the frame, a flexible arm extending from the base, a stopper extending from the flexible arm, and an engagement mechanism extending from the flexible arm, and the retainer is operable such that the flexible arm bends in a first bending direction when the frame is inserted in the first direction, and the flexible arm bends in a second bending direction when the frame moves in the second direction.

19. The windowed portion according to claim 1, further comprising an engagement system coupled to the frame, wherein the engagement system is configured to reliably engage with the inner surface of the rough opening frame when the windowed portion is inserted into the rough opening from the inside of the rough opening, and the retaining system is operable to maintain a secure engagement between the retaining system and the rough opening frame without using fasteners to fix the windowed portion to the rough opening frame when the windowed portion is inserted into the rough opening from the inside of the rough opening.

20. The windowed portion according to claim 19, wherein the engagement system includes a coupling bracket having a first leg and a second leg angularly offset from the first leg.

21. The windowed portion according to claim 20, wherein the second leg includes one or more openings configured to receive fasteners for connecting the second leg to the front rough opening frame.

22. The windowed portion according to claim 19, wherein the engagement system includes a carrier bracket that engages with at least a portion of the coupling bracket, and at least one of the coupling bracket or the carrier bracket includes a plurality of stoppers at different offset distances.

Images