Compression Frame Window Systems for Non-Standard Openings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hardened window, glazing, and door systems, while providing some protection, lack the necessary ballistic, blast, and forced entry resistance, especially in non-standard building openings, and often require anchoring into the wall, which can be impractical.
Innovation Solution
The development of compression frame systems that allow for simplified installation by sandwiching exterior and interior frame assemblies around a building opening, providing secure fixation without anchoring into the wall, while enhancing sliding capabilities and alignment during fabrication, and using compressible materials for flexibility and frictional hold.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If compression frame systems are used to simplify installation, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the exterior frame assembly and interior frame assembly into a single compression frame system that functions as an integrated unit. The exterior frame assembly includes mounting blocks and compression members, while the interior frame assembly includes a header and sill, all working together to provide secure installation without requiring anchoring into the wall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame system is divided into distinct modular components: exterior frame assembly, interior frame assembly, glazing panels, and compression members. This segmentation allows for simplified installation and assembly/disassembly while maintaining overall system functionality and security performance.
2Strength
If anchoring into the wall is used to secure the system, then strength is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the anchoring function from the wall structure and relocates it to the compression frame system itself. The exterior frame assembly and interior frame assembly are compressed together to create a self-contained securing mechanism that does not require penetration or anchoring into the wall, thereby simplifying installation while maintaining strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The compression members act as intermediaries between the exterior frame assembly and interior frame assembly, transmitting compressive forces to create a secure connection. This intermediary mechanism enables strong fixation without direct anchoring into the wall structure.
3Strength
If hardened glazing is used to provide ballistic and blast protection, then strength is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite glazing panels that combine multiple materials to achieve ballistic and blast resistance. These composite structures provide the necessary strength and protection while managing the weight through optimized material composition and layering, allowing the hardened windows to be integrated into the compression frame system.
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
The solution enables the installation of secure, blast, ballistic, and forced entry-resistant window, glazing, and door systems in various building configurations, including non-standard openings, without exposing bolts on the exterior and maintaining structural integrity during events like blasts.
Implementation Method 1
an exterior frame assembly and an interior frame assembly can be compressed against the wall. Such compression can allow the window, glazing, and door systems to be securely fixed to the wall
Data Source
AI summary
Blast, ballistic, and entry resistant operable window systems include a sliding exterior glazing panel assembly, a sliding interior glazing panel assembly, an exterior frame assembly that receives the sliding exterior glazing panel assembly, an interior frame assembly that receives the sliding interior glazing panel assembly, an exterior gasket for placement between the exterior frame assembly and the wall of the building, a central gasket for placement between the exterior frame assembly and the interior frame assembly, and an interior gasket for placement between the interior frame assembly and the wall of the building. Methods of installation in a wall of a building are also provided.