Pivoting Rain Shield for Single and Double Hung Windows
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for preventing water intrusion through exterior architectural windows during rainstorms, such as window screens and exterior awnings, are either ineffective or aesthetically unpleasing, leaving a gap for homeowners who want to keep windows open while excluding rainwater from the interior.
Innovation Solution
A rain shield device comprising a shield member with hingedly joined side panel members and adjustable channels, which can be deployed to fit various window widths and angles, allowing air to flow while redirecting rainwater back outside, using a combination of pivots and sliding supports to secure the device within the window frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If window screen is used to exclude rainwater, then some rain droplets are blocked, but significant amount of spray passes through the screen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible vinyl shield member that can be deployed to cover the window opening. This flexible film barrier is effective at blocking both rain droplets and spray, overcoming the limitation of traditional screens that allow spray passage. The vinyl material provides a continuous barrier that reliably prevents water intrusion while maintaining flexibility for easy deployment and retrieval.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If exterior awning mounting is used to exclude rainwater, then rainwater intrusion is prevented, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic deployment mechanism where the shield member can be extended outward from the window frame only when needed during rainstorms. When not in use, the shield retracts to a compact position within the window frame, leaving the window appearance unchanged. This dynamic capability allows the system to provide rain protection only when required, maintaining aesthetic appearance during normal conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The shield member is divided into multiple segments including side panel members that can be independently positioned and secured. This segmentation allows the shield to be configured to match the specific window opening dimensions and can be adjusted to provide optimal rain protection while minimizing visual impact when deployed.
3Ease of operation
If window is kept open during rainstorm to allow airflow, then ventilation is improved, but water intrusion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a shield member as an intermediary barrier positioned between the exterior environment and the interior space. This intermediary shield allows airflow to pass through while blocking water, enabling simultaneous achievement of ventilation and rain protection. The shield member acts as a selective barrier that permits air molecules to pass while intercepting water droplets and spray.
Data Source
AI summary
A rain shield is provided for exterior architectural windows which prevents rain water from intruding into a dwelling. The rain shield may include a generally rectangular-planar shield member. The device may also include first and second lower fixed pivots disposed on a lower portion of opposing sides of the shield member. The first and second fixed pivots may be oppositely directed from each other and cooperate to pivot the device between stowed and deployed configurations. The rain shield may also include first and second lateral supports disposed on either side of the shield member.