Pivoting Secondary Sash Window Assembly for Thermal Insulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing window assemblies face challenges with exterior storm windows, which are difficult to install, costly, and not suitable for all building elevations, while interior storm windows require professional installation and interfere with window hardware, limiting accessibility and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A window assembly with a primary sash and a pivotally attached secondary sash that forms an air chamber, allowing the secondary sash to be rotatably movable between closed and open positions, incorporating an accessory channel and drive mechanism for window accessories, and a glazing flange for secure panel attachment, enabling easy installation and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If exterior storm windows are used to improve insulation, then energy efficiency is improved, but installation difficulty and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of placing the storm window on the exterior side of the primary glazing, the patent inverts the arrangement by positioning the storm window on the interior side. This reversal allows the storm window to be installed without exterior access, eliminating the need for professional installation while maintaining the insulating air gap between the primary and storm window panes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by using a storm window that can be installed inside the building without interfering with existing window hardware. The storm window is positioned between the interior space and the primary glazing, creating a mediating insulating layer that does not require exterior modification or professional installation.
2Loss of energy
If interior storm windows are installed to improve insulation, then energy efficiency is improved, but window hardware accessibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the window assembly into distinct functional components: the primary window with its hardware, and the storm window as a separate, independently operable unit. The storm window is positioned and configured so that it does not physically interfere with the primary window's handles, cranks, or other hardware, allowing both to be accessed and operated independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The storm window is designed with movable and adjustable components that allow it to be opened, closed, and positioned dynamically without restricting the movement or operation of the primary window hardware. This dynamic design ensures that both the storm window and primary window can be accessed and operated as needed.
3Loss of energy
If interior storm windows are fixedly mounted to improve insulation, then energy efficiency is improved, but cleaning accessibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The storm window is designed with movable sashes and opening mechanisms that allow the glazing panels to be accessed for cleaning. Unlike fixed storm windows, this design enables the storm window panes to be opened or removed, providing access to both the interior and exterior surfaces of the glazing for maintenance and cleaning purposes.
4Loss of energy
If custom interior storm windows are installed to improve insulation, then energy efficiency is improved, but installation cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The storm window is designed with universal mounting features and standardized components that allow it to be installed on various window types without requiring custom fabrication. The mounting system can accommodate different window configurations, eliminating the need for professional measurement and custom construction, thereby reducing installation cost and complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a cost-effective, easily installable, and functional window assembly that maintains energy efficiency without interfering with window hardware, allowing for easy cleaning and access to both glazing panels while accommodating various window types and elevations.
Implementation Method 1
An air chamber is located between the primary sash and the secondary sash
Data Source
AI summary
A window assembly having a window frame and at least one primary sash mounted in the window frame. The primary sash has a plurality of sash members forming a primary sash perimeter and a first glazing panel mounted in the primary sash perimeter. At least one secondary sash is pivotally attached directly to the primary sash perimeter along an interior surface thereof so that the secondary sash is rotatably movable between a closed position and an open position relative to the primary sash. The secondary sash has a plurality of secondary sash members forming a secondary sash structure and a second glazing panel mounted in the secondary sash perimeter. An air chamber is located between the primary sash and the secondary sash that is substantially closed to the interior of the building structure. At least one accessory channel is locating along at least one side of the secondary sash members.