Integrated Storm Shutter Assembly for Interior Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storm shutters are not integrated into windows or doors as a single unit, requiring constant installation and uninstallation, lack protection against projectiles, and cannot be maintained without removal from the building.
Innovation Solution
A storm shutter system integrated into windows or doors, made of aluminum extrusion, that can be installed as a single unit, is adaptable to various sizes, and allows maintenance without removal, meeting hurricane impact resistance standards and enabling access for repair from inside the building.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a storm shutter is installed separately from the window or door, then the shutter can be added to existing buildings, but it requires constant installation and uninstallation preparation time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the storm shutter with the window or door assembly into a single integrated unit. The shutter is built into the window frame or door structure, allowing it to be installed once and remain permanently in place. This eliminates the need for repeated installation and removal operations while maintaining compatibility with existing building structures.
2Strength
If a storm shutter is made of traditional materials, then it can be manufactured, but it lacks protection against projectiles and hurricane impact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite construction combining aluminum extrusions with polycarbonate or acrylic panels. The aluminum provides structural strength and hurricane impact resistance, while the polycarbonate or acrylic layers provide projectile protection and weather resistance. This composite approach achieves military-grade protection while maintaining manufacturability through standardized extrusion and panel fabrication processes.
3Loss of time
If the storm shutter is integrated into the window or door, then preparation time is reduced, but maintenance and repair require removal from the building
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the integrated shutter system into modular components that can be accessed and serviced independently. The shutter assembly includes removable panels and accessible mechanical components that can be reached from the interior of the building through existing windows or doors. This segmentation allows maintenance personnel to perform repairs and maintenance without removing the entire shutter system from the building.
4Reliability
If a latch mechanism is used to keep the shutter closed, then the shutter can be secured, but it adds complexity and requires constant operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates automatic latching mechanisms that engage and disengage automatically based on the shutter's position and environmental conditions. The system includes sensors and actuators that detect when the shutter is in the closed position and automatically engage the latching mechanism, eliminating the need for manual operation. This self-service approach maintains reliable security while reducing operational complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The system includes a storm shutter integrated into a window or door that is installed as a single unit. The storm shutter is made of an aluminum extrusion material that is resistant to hurricane impact, including impact from projectiles. The storm shutter can receive service or maintenance on location, wherein the storm shutter can be repaired or serviced, from inside the building it is installed, without the need to uninstall the system. The system provides for multiple configurations of doors and fixed or operable windows.