Window Mainframe Component for Egress Compliance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing window mainframe components in existing dwellings often cannot accommodate newer, higher performing replacement windows that meet both energy code and emergency escape and rescue requirements, necessitating costly modifications to the window opening.

Innovation Solution

The development of a head/jamb window mainframe component with a horizontal block, exterior and interior bosses, vertical beams with flanged ends, and balance shoe tracks that allow for attachment of window sashes without expanding the window opening, ensuring compliance with egress requirements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If newer, higher performing replacement windows are installed to meet energy code requirements, then energy performance is improved, but the window opening cannot accommodate the new mainframes without costly structural modifications

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy performanceVSAvoidinstallation cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The window mainframe is divided into separate components: a head jamb component and side jamb components. This segmentation allows each component to be independently sized and configured to fit within the existing window opening dimensions while still supporting the full-performance replacement window assembly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The new mainframe components are designed to nest within the existing window opening and mainframe structure. The head jamb component fits between the existing mainframe elements, allowing the high-performance window to be installed without removing or modifying the surrounding brick, drywall, or structural elements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the window opening is widened to accommodate new mainframes, then adaptability to new window designs is improved, but the installation cost increases due to removing brick, drywall or structural elements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with new window designsVSAvoidinstallation cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The mainframe components are designed with specific local features: the head jamb component has a first width dimensioned to fit within the existing opening, while the side jamb components have second width dimensions that accommodate the sash thickness. This localized dimensioning allows adaptation to new window designs without requiring overall opening expansion.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The head jamb component serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the window assembly, creates the necessary spacing between mainframe elements, and interfaces with both the existing window opening and the new replacement window components. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate structural modifications.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of manufacture

If existing window mainframe components are used, then installation cost is reduced, but compliance with emergency escape and rescue opening requirements cannot be ensured

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation costVSAvoidegress requirement compliance

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The mainframe component dimensions are specifically engineered with parameter changes: the head jamb component width is reduced to fit existing openings, while the side jamb components are configured with specific thickness accommodations. These parameter changes enable egress window compliance (maintaining required opening dimensions) while using cost-effective existing opening structures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS9874052B2Window mainframe component for emergency escape and rescue opening windows

Publication Date: 2018.01.23 GILKEY WINDOW CO

AI summary

Embodiments of windows mainframe components, for example, head/jamb window mainframe components which meet the egress requirements for egress windows are provided herein.