Adjustable Window Insert for Out-of-Square Frames
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storm window systems are difficult and expensive to install and remove, particularly in larger commercial applications, due to their mechanical attachment and rectangular shape, which does not accommodate out-of-square window frames effectively.
Innovation Solution
A window insert system that allows components to be shipped separately and assembled upon installation, featuring adjustable cladding corners and foam corners that can deflect to absorb out-of-squareness in existing window frames, maintaining a tight air seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If storm windows are mechanically attached with mounting hardware to the inside or outside of the main window, then they provide secondary protection and energy efficiency, but they become difficult and expensive to install and remove
Solution Approach 1:
The window insert is divided into multiple separate components including a removable sash, individual corner pieces, and panel sections. These segmented components can be easily transported through building corridors and stairwells, assembled on-site, and quickly installed by snapping into place without requiring heavy mechanical attachment hardware
Solution Approach 2:
The window insert employs flexible seals and compressible gaskets that dynamically adapt to the window opening dimensions. The seals can compress and expand to accommodate variations in frame size and shape, allowing the insert to be easily removed and reinstalled while maintaining consistent sealing performance
2Ease of manufacture
If storm windows are made rectangular to simplify manufacturing, then production becomes easier, but they cannot accommodate out-of-square window frames effectively, causing air gaps
Solution Approach 1:
The window insert incorporates flexible seals and compressible gaskets at critical locations where frame irregularities occur. These localized flexible elements compensate for out-of-square conditions at corners and edges while the main panel remains rectangular for easy manufacturing, maintaining air tightness without sacrificing manufacturing simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The insert uses compressible gaskets and adjustable corner pieces that can change their physical parameters (compression, expansion, positioning) to adapt to varying frame dimensions and angles. This allows a rectangular manufactured insert to effectively accommodate non-rectangular window openings while maintaining sealing integrity
3Quantity of substance
If plastic sheets are used for storm windows to reduce cost, then material cost decreases, but installation becomes time-consuming requiring heat guns to shrink the sheets
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single large plastic sheet that requires heat shrinking, the window insert is segmented into pre-formed rigid or semi-rigid panels with integrated seals. These pre-fabricated components eliminate the need for heat guns and time-consuming shrinking processes, allowing quick assembly while maintaining cost-effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The window insert components are pre-assembled with seals and gaskets attached in the manufacturing process. This preliminary preparation eliminates on-site time-consuming installation steps such as heat shrinking plastic sheets, allowing workers to simply snap together pre-prepared components for rapid installation
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and cost-effective installation of secondary window protection in both residential and commercial settings, accommodating various window sizes and shapes while maintaining energy efficiency and acoustic performance.
Implementation Method 1
foam corners that can deflect to absorb out-of-squareness in existing window frames
Data Source
AI summary
A window insert that includes a rigid first framework having a first end, a rigid second framework having a first end, a first wedge, a second wedge, and an adjustment mechanism. The first end of the second framework extends away from the first end of the first framework. The second framework is substantially perpendicular to the first framework. The first wedge is snugly coupled to the first framework and extends from the first end of the first framework toward the first end of the second framework. The second wedge extends from the first end of the second framework toward the first end of the first framework. An inclined surface of the second wedge is in sliding engagement with an inclined surface of the first wedge. The adjustment mechanism is configured to slide the second wedge relative to the second framework and relative to the inclined surface of the first wedge.