Replacement Window Cladding System for Egress Compliance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for replacing windows often result in a double frame, reducing vision glass area and egress size, failing to allow insulation between the window frame and stud opening, and altering the original window's appearance.
Innovation Solution
A window replacement system where a new exterior window unit is installed as a single unit over the old frame, using a clad frame with built-in sashes and counterbalances, secured directly to the old frame, with cladding that matches the original frame's dimensions and materials, allowing for precise fitting without increasing frame size or reducing vision glass.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a window unit with its own frame is inserted inside the original frame, then the window can be replaced with a new unit, but it creates a double frame that reduces vision glass area and egress size
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the frame function from the replacement window unit, eliminating the need for a separate frame. The replacement sash is installed directly within the existing frame opening, removing the double-frame structure that was reducing vision glass area while maintaining the window replacement functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention separates the frame component from the sash component in the replacement window system. The existing frame is retained and reused, while only the sash (the movable part holding the glass) is replaced. This segmentation allows the new sash to fit within the original frame without adding extra frame material that would reduce glass area.
2Reliability
If a window unit with its own frame is inserted inside the original frame, then the window can be replaced, but it reduces the egress size below minimum size requirements
Solution Approach 1:
By extracting the frame from the replacement unit and retaining only the sash, the invention maximizes the egress opening size. The new sash is designed to fit within the original frame's opening dimensions, ensuring that the egress size meets or exceeds minimum requirements while still providing a complete window replacement.
3Reliability
If the entire old window unit including the original frame is removed, then a new window can be installed, but it increases disruption and complexity of installation
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the window into frame and sash components, allowing the frame to remain in place while only the sash is removed and replaced. This reduces installation complexity by eliminating the need to remove and reinstall the entire window unit, including the frame, while still achieving a complete replacement of the old window with a new one.
4Reliability
If a new window unit with its own frame is installed in the old frame, then the window is replaced, but it changes the overall appearance and ratio of frame to glass
Solution Approach 1:
By taking out the frame from the replacement unit and using only the existing frame, the invention preserves the original frame-to-glass ratio and overall appearance. The new sash is customized to match the dimensions of the original opening, ensuring that the aesthetic proportions are maintained while still providing a complete window replacement.
Data Source
AI summary
A window unit and replacement window cladding method and system which is provided as a single unit to be installed as a complete new window that fits over the head, side jamb and sill of an existing window frame and the old window frame that is cladded with head jamb, side jamb, and sill cover assemblies defining an opening in which one or more sash units is pivotally secured forming a replacement window unit, without any loss of glass size and egress, and without disturbing the building interior.