Integrated Roll-Up Storm Shutter for Flat-Profile Openings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storm shutters are not integrated into windows or doors as a single unit, requiring repeated installation and removal, lack durability against hurricane-force impacts, and protrude externally, affecting aesthetic appearance and necessitating complex on-site repairs.
Innovation Solution
A storm shutter system integrated into windows or doors as a single unit, using aluminum extrusion for durability, retractable design for ease of use, and internal hood configuration for aesthetic preservation, allowing on-site maintenance without removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If a storm shutter is integrated into a window or door as a single unit, then the time and effort required for preparation before hurricanes are reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The storm shutter is merged with the window or door assembly, forming an integrated unit that is installed and operated as a single system. The shutter is attached to the window frame or door, allowing it to be deployed independently of the main building structure. This integration eliminates the need for separate installation and removal operations, significantly reducing preparation time while managing complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated storm shutter system is segmented into distinct functional components: the shutter blade itself, the mounting attachment mechanism, and the control system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall system integration, making the complex integrated unit easier to manufacture, install, and operate.
2Strength
If a storm shutter is made from aluminum extrusion, then resistance to hurricane-force impacts is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter is constructed from aluminum extrusion, utilizing the material's inherent strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance. The extrusion process allows for precise control of cross-sectional dimensions and structural geometry, enabling the shutter to meet impact resistance requirements while maintaining manufacturability. The aluminum material properties are optimized for both strength and precision manufacturing.
3Shape
If the box or hood protrudes internally toward the building interior, then the exterior contour remains flat and aesthetic appearance is maintained, but the ease of repair decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of allowing the box or hood to protrude externally, the design inverts this approach by routing the housing internally toward the building interior. This inversion maintains a flat, aesthetically pleasing exterior surface while providing sufficient internal space for the shutter mechanism and control components. The internal configuration is designed to remain accessible for repair operations through the window or door opening.
4Ease of operation
If a single storm shutter rolls upward or downward without latches, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of maintaining open or closed position decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional latch-based mechanical positioning system is replaced with a rolling mechanism that utilizes the shutter's own weight and the guidance tracks to maintain position. The shutter rolls along defined paths within the housing, using gravity and mechanical guidance rather than separate latches to hold open or closed positions. This substitution simplifies operation while maintaining sufficient reliability through the inherent stability of the rolling mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A storm shutter system for integration into a window or door frame is disclosed, comprising a shutter frame including vertical and horizontal aluminum tube frames, an aluminum box recessed within the window or door opening, a rod for rolling and storing the storm shutter, one or more shutter tracks guiding the shutter between open and closed positions, and a roll-up mechanism operably connected to the rod. The aluminum box includes a hood defining an interior space with a bottom opening for shutter access, and is recessed to maintain a flat exterior surface. The storm shutter is configured to roll onto the rod and unroll downward along the shutter tracks, while the roll-up mechanism drives movement of the shutter. The system provides secure, concealed storage of the shutter, reduces visual impact on building exteriors, and enables smooth operation between open and closed positions.