Unitary RV Window Assembly With Integrated Drainage and Sliding Pane
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional window assemblies for recreational vehicles and trailers are heavy, complex, and prone to water penetration due to the use of separate window panes and gaskets, which increases fabrication and installation costs.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, unitary window assembly with a fixed window pane integrally molded into the frame, incorporating weep holes for water drainage and a sliding pane with contact pads and a latch mechanism to prevent chatter, reducing the need for additional seals and components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate fixed and sliding window panes are used, then the window assembly can be functional with sliding capability, but the weight of the window assembly increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the fixed window pane and frame into a single integrally molded unit, eliminating the need for separate components. This merging reduces the number of parts and overall weight while maintaining the sliding functionality through a separate sliding pane that operates within the integrated structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrally molded frame incorporates multiple functions including structural support, sealing surfaces, and mounting features for the sliding mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components and reduces overall assembly weight.
2Reliability
If separate window panes with gaskets and seals are used, then water penetration can be prevented, but the device complexity and fabrication costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing surfaces and water prevention features are integrally molded into the frame structure, eliminating the need for separate gaskets and seals. This reduces component complexity while maintaining effective water penetration prevention through continuous molded sealing surfaces.
3Reliability
If separate window panes with multiple seals are used, then water penetration can be prevented, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frame and fixed window pane are molded as a single integral unit, eliminating the need for separate seal interfaces between these components. This reduces manufacturing precision requirements by eliminating multiple mating surfaces and potential leak paths, while water penetration prevention is maintained through the integral construction.
4Ease of operation
If conventional separate pane assemblies are used, then the window can be functional, but the fabrication and installation costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frame and fixed window pane are manufactured as a single integrally molded component, reducing fabrication steps, material waste, and assembly operations. This significantly reduces fabrication costs while maintaining full window functionality including sliding operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The window assembly is segmented into the integrally molded frame unit and a separate sliding pane, allowing for simplified manufacturing of each component and easier installation. The sliding pane can be produced separately and installed into the pre-formed frame structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A light-weight unitary window assembly for recreational vehicles and trailers. The window assembly uses a two piece design that seats within the wall or door opening and incorporates a fixed window pane integrally molded into one of the polymer frame halves. The window assembly also uses a plurality of weep holes that extend through the frame halves to vacate water from the window assembly to the exterior of the vehicle or trailer wall. In an exemplary embodiment, the window assembly also includes a sliding window pane that slides along a peripheral track and securely seats in a closed position using a plurality of contact pads to prevent window “chatter.” The window assembly also includes an integrated latch mechanism to secure the sliding pane.