Contiguous Frame Window System with Compression Seals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional window systems, such as single-hung and projected systems, face challenges in enhancing sealing and thermal resistance performance, often requiring complex installation procedures due to non-contiguous frames and less effective air and thermal performance.
Innovation Solution
A window system design featuring a contiguous frame with a fixed upper lite and a pivotable lower vent, utilizing compression seals and adaptors to create a seamless transition between the upper and lower lite assemblies, allowing for improved thermal and air performance while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional window systems use non-contiguous frames with separate upper and lower lite assemblies, then installation flexibility is maintained, but sealing performance and thermal resistance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the upper and lower lite assemblies into a single contiguous frame structure, eliminating the need for separate frame components. The meeting rail is integrated directly into the frame, creating a seamless connection between upper and lower lites that improves sealing performance and thermal resistance while simplifying the overall frame structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces compression seals as intermediary elements between the upper and lower lite assemblies. These compression seals are positioned at the meeting rail interface and compressed during assembly to create a tight seal, effectively addressing the sealing performance issue without requiring complex frame modifications.
2Reliability
If conventional window systems use separate upper and lower lite assemblies with intermediate rails, then structural flexibility is maintained, but thermal resistance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the upper and lower lite assemblies into a unified structure with continuous frame members. The meeting rail is not a separate component but is instead integrated into the frame structure, eliminating thermal bridges and improving overall thermal resistance while reducing the number of assembly steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the thermal parameters of the meeting rail interface by using compression seals and integrated frame construction. This modifies the thermal conductivity and insulation properties at the critical interface between upper and lower lites, improving thermal resistance without adding significant structural complexity.
3Reliability
If conventional window systems use non-contiguous frames, then installation adaptability is maintained, but air performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the frame structures into a single contiguous unit, eliminating gaps and interfaces between upper and lower lites. This integration prevents air leakage paths and improves air performance, while the modular nature of the integrated frame actually simplifies installation by reducing the number of separate components to be assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The compression seals serve as intermediary elements that create air-tight connections between the upper and lower lite assemblies. These seals are installed during the assembly process and effectively prevent air infiltration, improving air performance without requiring complex sealing mechanisms or additional installation steps.
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 window system achieves higher thermal and air performance compared to conventional systems, with easier installation due to a single contiguous frame, and enhanced aesthetic value, particularly in historic retrofit applications.
Implementation Method 1
a first compression seal arranged to seal an interface between the horizontal vent infill adapter and the horizontal vent infill adapter when the vent is closed
Implementation Method 2
a second compression seal arranged to seal an interface between the left vertical vent jamb adapter and the left vertical jamb when the vent is closed
Implementation Method 3
a third compression seal arranged to seal an interface between the right vertical vent jamb adapter and the right vertical jamb when the vent is closed
Implementation Method 4
a first glass stop arranged to help hold the infill in place in cooperation with the left and right vertical vent glazing adapters
Implementation Method 5
the window system achieves higher thermal and air performance compared to conventional systems
Implementation Method 6
a first compression seal arranged to seal an interface between the horizontal vent infill adapter and the horizontal vent infill adapter when the vent is closed
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A window system (100) includes a frame (102) that includes a head (106), a sill (108), and opposing left (110a) and right (110b) vertical jambs, the left and right vertical jambs extending contiguously between the head (106) and the sill (108), a fixed lite assembly fixed to the frame, a vent pivotably mounted to the frame and vertically offset from the fixed lite assembly, and a meeting rail (112) interposing the fixed lite assembly and the vent.