Fiber-Reinforced Thermoplastic Modular Step for Window Well Egress
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing window wells, particularly those made of metal or traditional plastics, are heavy, prone to damage, costly to replace, and lack aesthetic appeal, while plastic alternatives sacrifice durability and strength.
Innovation Solution
A modular step made of fiber-reinforced thermoplastic with omnidirectional fibers, designed to be detachably affixed to a window well, providing improved durability, ease of installation, and customizable aesthetics through features like flanges and slots for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If metal window wells are used, then strength and durability are improved, but weight increases and ease of installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The window well is constructed using fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composite materials that combine the strength of metal with the lightweight properties of plastic. The composite structure provides adequate strength while significantly reducing weight compared to traditional metal window wells.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameters by using thermoplastic materials with specific fiber reinforcement ratios and thickness configurations to achieve the optimal balance between strength and weight. The wall thickness and material composition are carefully controlled to provide sufficient structural integrity while minimizing weight.
2Weight of moving object
If traditional plastic window wells are used, then weight is reduced, but strength and durability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The window well employs fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composite materials where fibers (such as glass or carbon) are embedded in a thermoplastic matrix. This composite construction provides the necessary strength and durability while maintaining the lightweight advantage of plastic over metal.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different wall thicknesses and material densities to different sections of the window well based on local structural requirements. Areas subject to higher stress receive thicker or more densely reinforced sections, optimizing strength where needed while keeping other areas lightweight.
3Strength
If metal window wells are used, then strength is improved, but ease of repair and replacement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The window well is designed as a modular assembly with detachable components including the well body, steps, and handrails. This segmentation allows individual components to be easily replaced or repaired without affecting the entire structure, significantly improving maintenance ease compared to monolithic metal window wells.
Solution Approach 2:
The window well incorporates dynamic attachment mechanisms that allow components to be easily assembled and disassembled. The modular design with interlocking features enables straightforward installation and removal of parts, facilitating simple repairs and updates.
4Stability of the object's composition
If traditional window well designs are used, then structural integrity is maintained, but adaptability and customization deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The window well is divided into modular components (well body, steps, handrails, covers) that can be independently selected, configured, and assembled. This modular approach maintains structural integrity through standardized connection mechanisms while providing extensive customization options for different architectural styles and functional requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The window well system is designed with universal attachment mechanisms and standardized interfaces that allow the same basic structure to serve multiple functions and adapt to various applications. The modular components can be configured for different window types, orientations, and aesthetic preferences while maintaining consistent structural performance.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular step that may be composed of a fiber reinforced thermoplastic, metal, or other material. An embodiment of the modular step has a body and two flanges and is configured in size and shape to be detachably affixed to a window well. The modular step mates to the window using a friction fit, mechanical fasteners or tabs/slots. Multiple modular steps can be attached to a single window well. The modular step can be used to facilitate egress through a window well and improves the visual aesthetics of a window well. Another embodiment of the modular step includes a body and a plurality of flanges and is configured in size and shape to be detachably affixed to a window well, wherein the modular step includes one and only one rung, with the plurality of flanges including two and only two flanges on either side of the rung.