Offset Window System with Recessed Connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional window systems obstruct the view between adjacent panels due to hardware components that are typically disposed in the same plane as the window surfaces, causing unsightliness.
Innovation Solution
The window system design includes offset parallel planes for adjacent window panels with supporting frames that extend in orthogonal directions, reducing the visible hardware between windows by positioning it between the panels in a direction orthogonal to their surfaces, thereby enhancing the sightline.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If hardware components are disposed between adjacent window panels in the same plane, then structural support is provided, but the view is obstructed causing unsightliness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves hardware components from the plane of the window surfaces into a recessed dimension behind the window panels. The adjacent window panels are disposed in offset parallel planes, with hardware components positioned in the space between these planes, thereby removing visual obstructions from the forward view while maintaining structural support functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The hardware components are nested within the recessed space between adjacent window panels. The connection components are received within recesses formed in the window panels, allowing structural elements to be contained within the overall window assembly without protruding into the viewing space.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If window panels are disposed in offset parallel planes to improve sightline, then view obstruction is reduced, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The window system is segmented into multiple functional layers: outer window panels, recessed hardware components, and inner window panels. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while working together as an integrated assembly, managing complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The offset parallel plane structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support for the window panels, positions hardware components to minimize view obstruction, and creates a integrated assembly that maintains overall structural integrity. The recessed configuration accomplishes both aesthetic and structural goals in a single design approach.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a window system including a first window that extends in a first direction, and that partially overlaps a second window in the first direction. The second window extends in the first direction, and is offset from the first window in a second direction that is orthogonal to the first direction. The window system includes a connector that is configured to connect the first window and the second window, and that is disposed in an area between the first window and the second window in the second direction and where the first window partially overlaps the second window in the first direction.