Window Condensation Gutter With Braided Drain for Frame Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing condensation removal systems for large stained glass windows in historic buildings are inadequate, as they either require extensive work, fail to handle large amounts of condensation, or allow water to reach the window frame, causing damage and corrosion.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising an elongated gutter with a sealing edge and a water conducting element that collects and directs condensation away from the window frame, using a braided wire to distribute water without splashing, and a water collector to manage collected water.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an outer window with ventilation openings is used to protect the inner ornamental window, then moisture protection is improved, but the complexity of manufacture and attachment increases extensively
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the moisture protection function from a complex outer window structure and implements it through a simple gutter device attached directly to the inner ornamental window. This removes the need for extensive outer window construction while maintaining effective moisture management.
Solution Approach 2:
The gutter acts as an intermediary element between the window surface and the interior space, intercepting condensation water before it can cause damage. This simple intermediary structure provides moisture protection without requiring complex outer window systems.
2Reliability
If a gutter is attached directly to the window surface, then condensation collection is improved, but the window appearance and visibility are disturbed
Solution Approach 1:
The gutter is designed to be attached only at specific locations (corners or edges) of the window where condensation accumulates, rather than covering the entire window surface. This localized attachment maintains window appearance while effectively collecting condensation.
Solution Approach 2:
The gutter extends into the third dimension (depth) from the window surface, collecting water in a channel that projects outward. This allows effective condensation collection while keeping the gutter profile minimal and less obtrusive to the window's visual appearance.
3Reliability
If a rigid sealing element is used at the gutter edge, then water collection is improved, but the window surface may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing element at the gutter edge is made flexible, allowing it to conform to the window surface without exerting excessive pressure that could damage the glass or lead joints. The flexibility maintains water collection effectiveness while protecting the window integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible sealing element acts as a cushioning interface between the rigid gutter structure and the fragile window surface, preventing direct contact and potential damage while maintaining the seal for effective water collection.
4Ease of operation
If water is allowed to flow freely down the window, then condensation removal is simplified, but damage to the window and attachments increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the harmful water flow from the window surface by intercepting it with the gutter and redirecting it through a controlled path to a collection point, preventing water from reaching and damaging the window and its attachments.
Solution Approach 2:
The water conducting element acts as an intermediary channel that safely transports collected condensation away from the window structure, preventing direct contact between water and vulnerable components while maintaining simple condensation removal.
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
Effectively collects and directs condensation away from the window frame, reducing damage while maintaining the window's appearance and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The sealing element could be a type of window putty that has elastic properties and that can be painted to blend in with the colours of the window. As an alternative, an elastic elongated element, for instance made of rubber, may be used as sealing element.
Implementation Method 2
the water conducting element may be a braided wire. This solution will ensure that water in the gutter is distributed downwards along the wire in controlled amounts without any splashing and trickling noise of the water.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a device (8) for collecting condensation on an inner surface of a window (18), comprising an elongated gutter (10), the gutter having a bottom (12), side walls, hereafter named inner (14) and outer (16) side walls, and end walls (40), wherein an upper edge (24) of the inner side wall (14) is arranged to be in contact with the surface of the window, for collecting water running along the window, the gutter (10) further comprising at least one passage (38), wherein the device comprises an elongated water conducting element (44) arranged in said passage (38), and wherein an end of said water conducting element (44) is positioned below said gutter and being arranged to a water collector (48).