WO2016007794A1 - Systèmes et procédés associés à des ensembles de fenêtrage à bon rendement en énergie - Google Patents

Systèmes et procédés associés à des ensembles de fenêtrage à bon rendement en énergie Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2016007794A1
WO2016007794A1 PCT/US2015/039820 US2015039820W WO2016007794A1 WO 2016007794 A1 WO2016007794 A1 WO 2016007794A1 US 2015039820 W US2015039820 W US 2015039820W WO 2016007794 A1 WO2016007794 A1 WO 2016007794A1
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WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
frame
edge
segment
channel cavity
corner
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Application number
PCT/US2015/039820
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English (en)
Inventor
Normand Marchand
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Clear Wall Corporation
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Publication date
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Publication of WO2016007794A1 publication Critical patent/WO2016007794A1/fr

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Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
    • E06B—FIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES OR LIKE ENCLOSURES IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES
    • E06B3/00—Window sashes, door leaves, or like elements for closing wall or like openings; Layout of fixed or moving closures, e.g. windows in wall or like openings; Features of rigidly-mounted outer frames relating to the mounting of wing frames
    • E06B3/96—Corner joints or edge joints for windows, doors, or the like frames or wings
    • E06B3/964—Corner joints or edge joints for windows, doors, or the like frames or wings using separate connection pieces, e.g. T-connection pieces
    • E06B3/9644—L-shaped corner pieces having two articulated or flexible joined legs; Corner joints with variable angle
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
    • E06B—FIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES OR LIKE ENCLOSURES IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES
    • E06B3/00—Window sashes, door leaves, or like elements for closing wall or like openings; Layout of fixed or moving closures, e.g. windows in wall or like openings; Features of rigidly-mounted outer frames relating to the mounting of wing frames
    • E06B3/04—Wing frames not characterised by the manner of movement
    • E06B3/28—Wing frames not characterised by the manner of movement with additional removable glass panes or the like, framed or unframed
    • E06B3/285—Wing frames not characterised by the manner of movement with additional removable glass panes or the like, framed or unframed flexible transparent foils without a proper frame fixed and sealed at a distance from the existing glass pane

Definitions

  • the present teachings relate generally to fenestration assemblies. More particularly, the present teachings relate to systems and methods for assembling fenestration assemblies that effectively secure substrates, such as energy-efficient window films.
  • Fenestration refers to products that fill openings in a building envelope, such as windows, doors, skylights, curtain walls, etc., and are designed to permit the passage of air, light, vehicles or people through the building envelope.
  • a building envelope in turn, generally refers to the separation between the interior and the exterior environments of a building. It serves as the outer shell that protects the indoor environment, as well as facilitates climate control of the indoor environment.
  • fenestration assemblies are used to cover the interior of a building's window with a transparent window film.
  • a combination of the window and the film is referred to herein as a "window/film combination.”
  • a window/film combination in the winter season (i.e. , when temperatures are relatively warm or hot) causes interior light to reflect back inside, trapping a relatively greater amount of heat inside the building envelope.
  • using such a window/film combination in the summer season i.e. , when temperatures are relatively cold
  • the present teachings disclose a frame.
  • the frame includes: (i) a first frame segment having two ends and a first channel cavity defined therein, with the first channel cavity extending from one end to another end of the first frame segment; (ii) a key including two arms, one of which is engaging and/or mating with the first channel cavity at one of two ends of the first frame segment to form at least part of a frame; and wherein each of the arms includes an inner edge and an outer edge, and the inner edge faces towards an interior region of the frame and is opposite to the outer edge, and the outer edge faces towards an exterior of the frame, and when the frame extends along a horizontal plane that substantially intersects and/or aligns with either one of the inner edge or the outer edge, either the outer edge or the inner edge that does not intersect the horizontal plane is raised or lowered a certain distance relative to the horizontal plane.
  • the certain distance may have a value that ranges from about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 cm.
  • the frame includes an inner frame edge and an outer frame edge, and wherein the channel cavity includes an inner channel edge and an outer channel edge, and in an engaged and/or mated configuration of the channel cavity and one of the arms, the inner edge of the arm is coupled to the inner channel edge and the outer edge of the arm is coupled to the outer channel edge such that the inner edge of the arm causes the inner frame edge to be raised or lowered a distance relative to the outer frame edge.
  • the frame also includes a second frame segment having two ends and a second channel cavity defined therein.
  • the second channel cavity extends from one end to another end of the second frame segment, and another arm of the key is engaging and/or mating with the second channel cavity at one of two ends of the second frame segment.
  • the frame has three or more corners and the key is a comer key.
  • At least one of the corners of the frame may include a notch.
  • the notch receives at least one corner stabilizer chosen from a group comprising key, disc, spherical ball and weld.
  • the present teachings disclose a fenestration assembly.
  • the fenestration assembly includes: (i) a frame, which includes (a) at least one frame segment including a channel cavity that extends from one end to another end of the frame segment and the frame segment including an inner frame segment edge and an outer frame segment edge, and (b) at least one key including two arms, at least one of which is disposed in the channel cavity, wherein the engaging and/or mating arm applies a first force against the channel cavity; and (ii) a substrate adhered to the frame such that the substrate exerts a second force that opposes the first force, and wherein the first force, in absence of the second force, raises the inner frame segment edge relative to the outer frame segment edge or raises the outer frame segment edge relative to the inner frame segment edge.
  • the substrate is in a tensioned state, and the tension produces the second force.
  • the fenestration assembly may further include a tensioner segment engaging and/or mating with the frame segment, wherein the substrate is secured between the frame segment and the tensioner segment.
  • the engaging and/or mating produces the tensioned state of the substrate.
  • the present teachings disclose a method of fabricating a frame.
  • the method includes: (i) obtaining a frame segment including a channel cavity that extends from one end to another end of the channel cavity; (ii) obtaining a key including two arms, each having an inner edge and an outer edge; (iii) engaging and/or mating one of the arms at one of the ends of the channel cavity to form at least part of a frame, and the inner edge faces towards an interior region of the frame and is opposite to the outer edge, which faces towards an exterior of the frame; and (iii) displacing the inner edge of the a m a certain distance relative to a horizontal plane that intersects the outer edge of the arm or displacing the outer edge of the arm a certain distance relative to a horizontal plane that intersects the inner edge of the arm. Displacing may be carried out prior to engaging and/or mating.
  • the method of fabricating a frame may further include: (i) notching a location on the frame segment to create a notched location; (is) placing a corner stabilizer in the channel cavity at the notched location to form a stabilized notched location; and (iii) folding the frame segment at the stabilized notched location to build a corner of the frame. Folding may be carried out prior to placing, and placing includes crimping or welding the notched location.
  • the corner stabilizer may include at least one member chosen from a group comprising key, disc, spherical ball and weld.
  • the present teachings disclose a method of fabricating a fenestration assembly.
  • the method includes; (i) obtaining a frame segment including a channel cavity that extends from one end to another end of the frame segment; (ii) obtaining a key- including two arms, each having an inner edge and an outer edge; (iii) engaging and/or mating one of the arms at one of the ends of the channel cavity to form a part of a frame, and the inner edge faces towards an interior region of the frame and is opposite to the outer edge, which faces towards an exterior of the frame; (iv) displacing the inner edge of the arm a certain distance relative to a horizontal plane that intersects the outer edge of the arm or displacing the outer edge of the ami a certain distance relative to a horizontal plane that intersects the inner edge of the arm; (v) adhering a substrate to the frame; and (vi) placing the substrate under tension.
  • the method may further include maintaining the frame in a desired configuration, a preferably, a relatively fiat configuration, prior to placing the substrate under tension. Placing the substrate under tension may be carried out by mating and/or engaging a tensioner segment to the frame segment with the substrate disposed between the frame segment and the tensioner segment.
  • Figure 1A shows a top view of a fenestration assembly in a flat configuration, according to one embodiment of the present arrangements and that is resting on a horizontal plane.
  • Figure IB shows a side-sectional view of the fenestration assembly of Figure 1 A.
  • Figure 2A shows a top view of a fenestration assembly in a bent configuration, according to another embodiment of the present arrangements and that is resting on a horizontal plane.
  • Figure 2B shows a side-sectional view of the fenestration assembly of Figure 2A.
  • Figure 3 shows a side-sectional view of a fenestration assembly side, according to one embodiment of the present arrangements, in an assembled state and having secured thereon a substrate.
  • Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of fenestration assembly components (e.g. , a frame and a tensioner) before and after a step of mating and/or engaging, according to one embodiment of the present teachings, to produce an assembled fenestration assembly.
  • fenestration assembly components e.g. , a frame and a tensioner
  • Figure 5A shows a top view of a frame extrusion, according to one embodiment of the present arrangements and that is used to build a frame for use in the present fenestration assemblies.
  • Figure 5B shows a top view of the frame extrusion of Figure 5A having modifications introduced thereto, according to one embodiment of the present teachings, for forming corners of a frame.
  • Figure 6A shows a top view of a frame, according to one embodiment of the present arrangements and that includes the frame extrusion of Figure 5B.
  • Figure 6B shows a top view of the frame shown in Figure 6A, but with a corner that built by bending the frame extrusion around one of the corner stabilizers.
  • Figure 6C shows a top view of the frame of Figure 6B, but with a second corner built in a manner that is similar to building the first corner.
  • Figure 6D shows a top view of the frame of Figure 6C, but with a third corner built in a manner that is similar to building the first and second corners, and the two ends of the frame extrusion of Figure 5B coming together.
  • Figure 7 shows a side view of one notched location on a frame extrusion, according to one embodiment of the present arrangements and that has a corner stabilizer introduced therein for building a corner of the subassemblies shown in Figures 6 A, 6B, and 6C.
  • Figure 8 shows a detailed side-sectional view of a corner of a frame, according to one embodiment of the present arrangements and having a corner stabilizer engaged therein.
  • Figure 9A shows a top view of a corner key, according to one embodiment of the present arrangements and in a flat configuration.
  • Figure 9B shows a top view of two frame extrusion ends connected by a corner key, according to one embodiment of the present arrangements and forming one corner of a frame used in the present fenestration assemblies.
  • Figure 10A shows a perspective view of a corner key, according to one embodiment of the present arrangements and in a twisted or bent configuration.
  • Figure 10B shows a side view of the corner key of Figure 10A.
  • Figure 11 shows a cross-sectional view of a fenestration assembly, according to one embodiment of the present arrangements and having two opposing forces acting on sides of the frame.
  • Figure 12 is a flowchart showing certain salient steps of a process, according to one embodiment of the present teachings, for building a frame for use in the present fenestration assemblies.
  • the present teachings provide novel frame designs and methods of building the same.
  • the present teachings further provide novel methods of making fenestration assemblies using the frames of the present teachings.
  • the present fenestration assemblies may be used in connection with a building envelope for energy-efficiency applications. When installed over a window or building's opening, the present fenestration assemblies provide significant reduction in transmission of heat into and out of the building. During warmer temperatures, they reflect away heat associated with natural light, and during warmer temperatures, they trap in heat. These embodiments therefore provide the advantage of increased energy efficiency and decreased loads on a building's heating and air conditioning systems.
  • Figure 1A shows a top view of a fenestration assembly 100, according to one embodiment of the present arrangements and in a flat configuration.
  • Fenestration assembly sides 102, 104, 106, and 108 each have an inner edge 102i, 104i, 106i, and 108i, respectively, that face an interior region of fenestration assembly 100, and have an outer edge 102o, 104o, 106o, and 108o, respectively, that faces an exterior of fenestration assembly 100.
  • Fenestration assembly sides 102, 104, 106, and 108 may also be thought of as being a part of the same frame, or in some instances being individual frame segments.
  • Fenestration assembly 100 is shown resting on a horizontal plane, "C.” Vertical planes, "A” and “B,” are perpendicular to horizontal place C.
  • Figure IB shows a side view of fenestration assembly 100, when sliced across vertical planes A and B. Specifically, Figure IB shows substrate 110 disposed between sides 104 and 108, each having inner edges 104i and 108i, respectively, and outer edges 104o and 108o, respectively.
  • Substrate 1 10 which is shown positioned relatively parallel to horizontal plane C, is secured by each of fenestration assembly sides 102, 104, 106, and 108.
  • the area of substrate 110 disposed between inner edges 102i, 104i, 106i, andl08i, may be thought of as a "viewing area" of the substrate. (As shown in Figure IB, this is the area of substrate 1 10 disposed between inner edges 104i and 108i.) In other words, this area represents the portion of substrate 1 10 that is visible to a building occupant when the present fenestration assemblies are installed over a window frame cavity.
  • non-viewing areas of the substrate.
  • Such non-viewing areas are used to secure a substrate to one or more components of a fenestration assembly (e.g. , a frame) when those components are in a mated and/or an engaged state.
  • a fenestration assembly e.g. , a frame
  • These non- viewing areas of the substrate are typically not visible when the present fenestration assemblies are in use, though in certain embodiments of the present arrangements, they are visible.
  • Figures 1A and IB show fenestration assembly 100 in a relatively flat configuration.
  • a flat configuration of fenestration assembly 100 means both inner edges of each side shown, 108i' and 104i' , and both outer edges of each side shown, 108o' and 104o' , are resting on, intersect or substantially align with horizontal plane C.
  • substantially align means that an inner edge or an outer edge of a fenestration assembly side is displaced an angular distance from horizontal plane C that is less than about 5° when the other inner edge or outer edge of the fenestration assembly rests on or intersects that plane. C.
  • a flat configuration of fenestration assembly 100 means that fenestration assembly sides 102, 104, 106, and/or 108 extend along a plane that is the same as, or substantially parallel to, horizontal plane C and/or substrate 110.
  • Figure 2A shows a top view of a fenestration assembly 200 in a bent configuration, according to one embodiment of the present arrangements and resting on a horizontal plane, "C.”
  • Fenestration assembly sides 202, 204, 206, and 208, inner edges 202i, 204i, 206i, and 208i, outer edges 202o, 204o, 206o, and 208o, and substrate 210 are substantially similar to their counterparts in Figures 1A and IB, i.e.
  • Figure 2A also shows vertical planes, "D" and "E,” which are substantially similar to vertical planes A and B shown in Figure 1 A.
  • Figure 2B shows a side- sectional view of a resulting cross-section when fenestration assembly 20 is sliced along vertical planes D and E.
  • Fenestration assembly sides 204 and 208, inner fenestration assembly edges 208i and 208o, outer fenestration assembly edges 204i and 204o, and substrate 210 are substantially similar to their counterparts in Figure 2 A, i.e. , sides 204 and 208, inner fenestration assembly edges 208i and 208o, outer fenestration assembly edges 204i and 204o, and substrate 210.
  • a plane, "F” is shown extending along a length of side 208.
  • plane F is positioned at a center region of fenestration assembly side 208 and is relatively parallel to a top surface and a bottom surface of fenestration assembly side 208. As shown in Figure 2B, plane F may be thought of as running along, parallel to, or the same as, a centerline of side 208.
  • an angle, " ⁇ ,” represents the angular distance between plane F of side 208 and horizontal plane C.
  • angle ⁇ may be thought of as representing the value of the "bend" associated with fenestration assembly side 208, and in such manner, fenestration assembly 200 may be thought of as having a bent configuration.
  • angle ⁇ has a value that is less than about 40°.
  • the entire fenestration assembly may be thought of as having a bent configuration.
  • the presents teachings recognize that such angular distance may vary along the length of a fenestration assembly side. For example, a fenestration assembly side may be more angled at a center region than at a region closer to a corner.
  • a bent configuration means an outer edge of fenestration assembly side (e.g. , outer edge 208o) is displaced (i. e. , raised or lowered) relative to an inner edge of a fenestration assembly side (e.g. , inner edge 208i).
  • a bent configuration means that an outer edge of a fenestration assembly side is displaced relative to a horizontal plane (e.g.
  • outer edge 208o is displaced a distance from horizontal plane C that has a value that is between about 0.5 mm and about 1.5 cm.
  • the bend that produces angle ⁇ is introduced by a force, "Fi.”
  • Force Fi is produced when a sufficient amount of tension is introduced into a substrate (e.g. , as explained below with reference to Figure 4).
  • the present teachings recognize that this force is a consequence of the "off-center" configuration of the sides of the present fenestration assemblies.
  • the non-viewing area of substrate 210 secured inside side 208 and disposed between outer edge 208o and inner edge 208i is relatively parallel to, but located a distance away from, a centerline of side 208 (i.e. , plane F).
  • this secured region of substrate 210 is thought of as being off-center, and the sides of the fenestration assemblies of the present teachings therefore may be thought of as having an off-center configuration.
  • the present teachings further recognize that while introducing relatively high tensions into a substrate may be useful in promoting fenestration assemblies that are taut, wrinkle-free, and having a glass-like appearance, the bend in fenestration assembly sides that result from forces generated by these high substrate tensions are problematic, as they give fenestration assemblies a less appealing appearance, making their substrates look more like plastic and less like glass.
  • undesirable curved or crimped regions are produced adjacent to the inner edges 204i and 208i due to tension in substrate 210.
  • curved or crimped regions give the fenestration assembly an appearance akin to a tray, and thus may be referred to as the result of a "traying" effect that produced when fenestration assemblies are forced into a bent configuration by force Fi.
  • the present teachings provide systems and methods that reduce or eliminate the traying effect shown in Figure 2B without requiring a reduction in substrate tension.
  • FIG. 3 shows a detailed cross-section of certain components of a fenestration assembly side 300, according to one embodiment of the present arrangements and in an engaged and/or mated state.
  • Fenestration assembly side 300 includes a tensioner segment 354 engaged and/or mated to a frame segment 352, with a substrate 310 secured therebetween.
  • An inner fenestration assembly edge 302i, an outer fenestration assembly edge 302o, and a substrate 310 are substantially similar to their counterparts in Figure 1A, i.e., each of inner fenestration assembly edges 102i, 104i, 106i, and 108, each of outer fenestration assembly edges 102o, 104o, 106o, and 108o, and substrate 110, respectively.
  • Figure 3 also shows an inner frame edge 301i and an outer frame edge 301o, each of which aligns with and forms a part of inner fenestration assembly edge 302i and outer fenestration assembly edge 302o, respectively.
  • Tensioner segment 354 includes a non-mating side 358, as well as a mating side 328, both of which include various mating and/or engaging components disposed thereon.
  • frame segment 352 includes a non-mating side 356, as well as a mating side 326, both of which include various mating components disposed thereon.
  • These various mating and/or engaging components associated with segments 354 and 358 may be considered complementary in that they operate together to secure substrate 310 in the fenestration assemblies of the present teachings.
  • the present teachings contemplate the use of any combination of mating and/or engaging components sufficient to engage and/or mate a tensioner segment (e.g. , segment 354) to a frame segment.
  • Frame 352 also includes a channel cavity 360, having an inner channel cavity edge 360i and an outer channel cavity edge 360o.
  • channel cavity 360 extends through the length of frame 352
  • inner channel cavity edge 360i faces an interior region of a fenestration assembly
  • outer channel cavity edge 360o faces an exterior of a fenestration assembly.
  • channel cavity 360 engages with components that stabilize these corners (i.e., "corner stabilizers") and/or connect the ends of one or more frame segments or tensioner segments to facilitation formation of a fenestration assembly corner (e.g. , a "corner key").
  • a corner key may be thought of as one type of corner stabilizer.
  • either frame 352 or segment 354 may be fabricated as discrete segments that are joined at corners, and/or joined sequentially along the sides of a fenestration assembly, according to the systems and methods disclosed herein.
  • either frame 352 or segment 354 may be fabricated as a closed structure.
  • either frame 352 or segment 354 may be fabricated as a "frame extrusion," preferably a relatively straight edge, that is capable of being modified and manipulated to produce fenestration assemblies of varying dimensions (as explained below with reference to Figures 5A and 5B).
  • Substrate 310 may be of any thickness so long as it can be secured inside a frame or a fenestration assembly and is not too flimsy.
  • it is an energy-efficient window film. More preferably it is an energy-efficient window film that is a low-emittance film, preferably having an emissivity that is less than about 0.35.
  • the thickness of substrate 310 may depend on the dimensions of the window that is ultimately covered by a frame or a fenestration assembly. In one embodiment of the present arrangements, substrate 310 is between about 1 mm and about 30 mm thick. In a preferred embodiment of the present arrangements, substrate 310 is between about 6 mm and about 12 mm thick, and in an even more preferred embodiment of the present arrangements, substrate 310 is between about 8 mm and about 10 mm thick.
  • Figure 4 shows the transformation of certain complementary fenestration assembly components, according to one embodiment of the present teachings, from an unassembled to an assembled state.
  • Tensioner segments 454a and 454b, frame segments 452a and 452b, and a substrate 410 are substantially similar to their counterparts in Figure 3, i.e. , tensioner segment 354, frame segment 352, and substrate 310, respectively.
  • fenestration assembly sides 404 and 408 are substantially similar to their counterparts in Figure IB, fenestration assembly sides 104 and 108, respectively.
  • frame segment 452a and tensioner segment 454a may be engaged and/or mated, with one end of substrate 410 disposed therebetween, to form side 408.
  • frame segment 452b and tensioner segment 454b are engaged and/or mated, with an opposite end of substrate 410 disposed therebetween, to form fenestration assembly side 404.
  • substrate 410 Prior to the engaging and/or mating step shown in Figure 4, substrate 410 may be thought of as being in a non-tensioned state, as it has little or no external force acting upon it.
  • the present teachings recognize that substrate 410' is transformed to a tensioned state.
  • mating and/or engaging of frame segment 452 to tensioner segment 454 produces tension in substrate 410.
  • this tensioned state is produced when engaged and/or mated frame and tensioner segments tighten or stretch substrate 410', as shown.
  • the present teachings recognize that introducing tension into a substrate provides the advantage of producing a taut, wrinkle free, and aesthetically pleasing substrate in the fenestration assemblies of the present teachings.
  • Mating and/or engaging complementary frame and tensioner segments in a fenestration assembly may be carried out in sequentially (e.g. , by engaging and/or mating segments sequentially to each frame side). Alternatively, mating and/or engaging complementary frame and tensioner segments may be carried out simultaneously (e.g., by engaging and/or mating multiple tensioner segments to multiple frame segments in parallel).
  • the present teaching contemplate any number of mating and/or engaging steps, so long as such steps are sufficient to secure and produce tension in a substrate used in the fenestration assemblies of the present teachings.
  • fenestration assembly components e.g. , frames and/or frame segments
  • frame extrusions may be thought of as a relatively simple component that can be modified to produce frames and/or frame segments of varying dimensions. Due to the simplicity of their designs, frame extrusions may be fabricated and configured relatively easily, thus promoting both cost savings and versatility when
  • Figure 5A shows a top view of a frame extrusion 552, according to one embodiment of the present arrangements, used to build a frame for use in the fenestration assemblies of the present teachings.
  • An inner frame edge 501i, an outer frame edge 501o, a channel cavity 560, an inner channel cavity edge 560i, and an outer channel cavity edge 560o are substantially similar to their counterparts in Figure 3, i.e. , inner frame edge 30 li, outer frame edge 30 lo, channel cavity 360, inner channel cavity edge 360i, and outer channel cavity edge 360o.
  • Figure 5 also shows frame extrusion 552 having a first end 514a and a second end 514b.
  • Figure 5B shows the frame extrusion of figure 5A with certain modifications introduced, to produce frame extrusion 552', according to one embodiment of the present teachings.
  • An inner frame edge 501i', an outer frame edge 501o', a channel cavity 560', an inner channel cavity edge 560i', an outer channel cavity edge 560o', a first end 514a' , and a second end 514b' are substantially similar to their counterparts in Figure 5A, i.e. , inner frame edge 501i, outer frame edge 501o, channel cavity 560, inner channel cavity edge 560i, outer channel cavity edge 560o, first end 514a, and second end 514b.
  • Figure 5B also shows a location 508a, a location 508b, and a location 508c, with a notch introduced at each location.
  • notches are also shown introduced at ends 514a' and 514b' . As shown below with reference to Figures 6A-6D, such notches are useful for building corners of a frame.
  • a notch may be introduced to various locations along or on a frame extrusion using any technique well known to those of skill in the art.
  • a notch may be introduced by at least one member chosen from a group comprising cutting, striking, and slicing.
  • a bend may be introduced at the notched location to facilitate building a corner of a frame.
  • ends 514a and 514b may be configured to align with each other or with an end of another frame extrusion. Such alignment facilitates formation of a corner of a frame when these two ends are connected, either to each other, or to the side of another frame segment.
  • connecting is facilitated by engaging a "key,” or a "corner key,” to ends 514a and 514b.
  • connecting is facilitated by welding ends 514a and 514b to each other or to other frame extrusion sides.
  • the present teachings contemplate use of any technique well known to those of skill in the art to form a corner where two ends of a frame extrusion align.
  • Figures 6A-6D show various intermediate structures and components, according to certain embodiments of the present arrangements, used to build a closed frame structure. Similar techniques may be used to build a closed tensioner structure.
  • frame components 600 include a frame extrusion 652 (i.e.
  • Figure 6A also shows corner stabilizers 606a, 606b, and 606c, which are used to stabilize corners that are built according to the present teachings.
  • Figure 6A shows frame extrusion 652 having notches at locations 608a, 608b, and 608c, as well as corresponding corner stabilizers 606a, 606b, and 606c, disposed in those notched location. These notched locations and corner stabilizers are used to build three corners of a four-sided frame at each location.
  • the present teachings contemplate the use of any number of notches and corresponding corner stabilizers to build frames having any number of corners and/or sides.
  • Figure 6B shows intermediate frame components 600' , according to one embodiment of the present arrangements and having a first corner built.
  • a frame extrusion 652', an inner frame edge 601i', an outer frame edge 601o', a channel cavity 660', an inner channel cavity edge 660i', an outer channel cavity edge 660o', a first end 614a', a second end 614b', locations 608a' , 608b' , and 608c', and corner stabilizers 606a', 606b', and 606c' are substantially similar to their counterparts in Figure 6A, i.e.
  • Figure 6B shows a first corner at location 608a'.
  • a notch at location 608a' on a frame extrusion provides access to channel cavity 660', where a corner stabilizer 606a is secured.
  • a notch provides an opening through which a corner stabilizer may be inserted or mated and/or engaged with a channel cavity.
  • the notch is closed by folding (e.g. , mechanically or manually), which results in corner stabilizer 606a' further engaging and/or mating with channel cavity edges 660i and 660o (e.g. , as shown with reference to Figure 7B). In such manner, a corner of a frame is built from a single frame extrusion.
  • Figure 6C shows intermediate frame components 600", according to one
  • a frame extrusion 652", an inner frame edge 601i” , an outer frame edge 601o” , a channel cavity 660", an inner channel cavity edge 660i”, an outer channel cavity edge 660o” , a first end 614a", a second end 614b", locations 608a" , 608b” , and 608c” , and corner stabilizers 606a' ' , 606b” , and 606c” are substantially similar to their counterparts in Figure 6B, frame extrusion 652', inner frame edge 601i', outer frame edge 601o', channel cavity 660' , inner channel cavity edge 660i', outer channel cavity edge 660o', first end 614a', second end 614b', locations 608a' , 608b', and 608c' , and corner stabilizers 606a', 606b', and 606c' , respectively.
  • Figure 6C shows frame extrusion 652" having a second corner, at location 608b", with corner stabilizer 606b' ' secured to channel cavity 660". Another corner, at location 608b", may be built in a substantially similar manner as that described with reference to Figure 6B. Though Figure 6C shows two corners built at adjacent locations along frame extrusion 652" , the present teachings recognize that corners may be built in any sequence at various locations along a frame extrusion. [0067] Next, Figure 6D shows the intermediate frame components 600" ', according to one embodiment of the present arrangements, after a third corner has been built according to the present teachings.
  • a frame extrusion 652' " , an inner frame edge 601i” ' , an outer frame edge 601o” ' , a channel cavity 660" ', an inner channel cavity edge 660i” ' , an outer channel cavity edge 660o” ' , a first end 614a' “, a second end 614b' “ , locations 608a' “, 608b' “ , and 608c' “ , and corner stabilizers 606a' “ , 606b' “, and 606c' “ , are substantially similar to their counterparts in Figure 6C, i.e.
  • FIG. 6D shows a third corner built at location 608c' " with corner stabilizer 606c' " secured inside channel cavity 660" ' at location 608c' ".
  • the corner, at location 608c is built in a substantially similar manner as that described with reference to Figures 6B and 6C.
  • Figure 6D also shows first end 614a' ' ' and second end 614b' " in a relatively aligned configuration, with a slight gap therebetween.
  • ends 614a' " and 614b' " may be connected to build a fourth corner of a frame for use in the present fenestration assemblies.
  • the present teachings provide steps for building a closed frame structure from a single frame extrusion.
  • Figure 7 shows certain components 700 used to build one corner of a frame during a process of building a frame according to the present arrangements.
  • a frame extrusion 752, an inner frame edge 701i, an outer frame edge 701o, a channel cavity 760, an inner channel cavity edge 760i, an outer channel cavity edge 760o, a corner stabilizer 706, and a location 708, are substantially similar to their counterparts in Figure 6A, i.e. , frame extrusion 652, inner frame edge 60 li, outer frame edge 60 lo, channel cavity 660, inner channel cavity edge 660i, outer channel cavity edge 760o, corner stabilizer 606, and location 608a.
  • corner stabilizer 706 engages with inner channel cavity edge 760i and outer channel cavity edge 760o when placed inside channel cavity 760 (e.g. , as shown with reference to the solid arrow in Figure 7).
  • Figure 7 shows corner stabilizer 706 configured in the shape of a disc, the present teachings recognize that a corner stabilizer may be configured in any shape capable of engaging with the channel cavity at a corner of a frame or segment.
  • frame extrusion 752 may be closed at notched location 708 to form a corner of a frame.
  • Corner stabilizer 706 may engage and/or mate with channel cavity 760 by protruding slightly into the material that surrounds the channel cavity.
  • Figure 8 shows a cross section of a frame corner 800, according to one embodiment of the present arrangements, having a corner stabilizer secured inside a frame segment's channel cavity.
  • a frame extrusion 852, an inner frame edge 801i, an outer frame edge 801o, a channel cavity 860, an inner cavity edge 860i, an outer channel cavity edge 860o, a mating side 826, and a non-mating side 856, are substantially similar to their counterparts in Figure 4, i.e. , frame extrusion 452, inner frame edge 401i, outer frame edge 401o, channel cavity 460, inner cavity edge 460i, outer channel cavity edge 460o, mating side 426, and non-mating side 456.
  • a corner stabilizer 806 is substantially similar to its counterpart in Figure 7, i.e., corner stabilizer 706.
  • Figure 8 also shows inner teeth 862 disposed on an inner channel cavity edge 860i and outer teeth 864 disposed on an outer channel cavity edge 860o, which facilitate securing corner stabilizer 806 in channel cavity 860.
  • Inner teeth 862 protrude away from an inner region of the ultimately fenestration assembly and outer teeth 864 protrude away from an outer region of the fenestration assembly.
  • corner stabilizer 806 protrudes into the surface of the inner and outer edges of channel cavity 760 at locations on inner teeth 862 and at 864.
  • protrusion of the corner stabilizer into channel cavity 860 may be facilitated when a notch is closed to form a corner (e.g. , as shown with respect to the dashed arrow in Figure 7).
  • a corner stabilizer is secured inside a frame when the present fenestrations assemblies are in use, producing a corner of a frame that is stabilized by the corner stabilizer.
  • inner and outer teeth facilitate in gripping the corner stabilizer inside the channel cavity.
  • a corner stabilizer is one member chosen from a group comprising a key, disc, spherical ball, and weld. Irs those embodiments where a corner stabilizer is a weld, the weld may be formed by treating a corner with heat sufficient to create a weld.
  • a dent may be introduced into a corner of a frame extrusion such that the dent engages with the corner stabilizer.
  • corner stabilizers having a "key" configuration are useful in joining join two ends of a frame extrusions and/or frame segments.
  • a corner key may be used to join two ends of the same frame extrusion or frame segment to complete a closed frame (e.g. , ends 614a' " and 614" ' in Figure 4D).
  • separate frame extrusion may be joined by a corner key to form corners of a frame.
  • four separate frame segments are joined by corner keys to form four corners of a frame.
  • FIG. 9A shows a corner key 900, according to one embodiment of the present arrangements.
  • Corner key 900 includes arms 940a and 940b.
  • Arms 940a and 940b include inner arm edges 940ai and 940bi, respectively, which point toward and interior region of a frame when the corner key is used in the fenestration assemblies of the present teachings.
  • Arms 940a and 940b also include outer arm edges 940ao and 940bo, respectively, which point to and exterior of a frame when the present corner key is used in the fenestration assemblies of the present teachings.
  • Arms 940a and 940b are preferably joined by a connecting portion 948.
  • An interior region of connecting portion 948 i.e. , pointing to an interior region of a frame when the present fenestration assemblies are in an assembled state
  • Corner key 900 in Figure 9A is shown in a relatively flat configuration.
  • a relatively flat corner key 900 means that inner arm edges 940ai and 940bi are resting on, intersect, or substantially align with a horizontal plane upon which the corner key is resting.
  • Substantially align means that the inner arm edge or outer arm edge of a corner key is displaced an angular distance from that horizontal plane that is less than about 5°.
  • arms 940a and 940b of corner key 906 are at a right angle relative to each other if the ultimate closed structure formed should have adjacent sides that are perpendicular to each other.
  • corner key 906 is used to build a corner of a frame having approximately the same dimensions, e.g. , a corner of a rectangular frame.
  • arms 940a and 940b may be disposed at any angle relative to each other to join ends of a frame extrusion that form a corner having approximately the same angle.
  • arms 940a and 940b may be disposed at a 60° angle relative to each other to join two ends of frame extrusion to form a 60° corner of a triangular-shaped frame.
  • Relief portion 944 joins the inner edges of a corner key.
  • a relief portion 944 is disposed between inner edges 942a and 942b of key 900.
  • Relief portion 944 serves at least two functions. First, relief portion 944 provides a slight amount of "give" between arms 940a and 940b, which may be useful when inserting the arms into the sides of a frame extrusion. Second, relief portion 944 provides additional space to accommodate ends of a frame extrusion that do not line up precisely when a frame extrusion is folded at a notch to form for corner.
  • arms 940a and 940b may be configured with serrations, or "teeth.” As shown in Figure 9B, these teeth may engage with the channel cavity of a frame segment to secure the corner key in place when the fenestration assemblies of the present teachings are in use.
  • Figure 9A shows teeth on one side of each corner key arm, the present teachings contemplate use of teeth on either arm, on either side of a corner key arm, or not at all.
  • Figure 9B shows a cross section of a corner key 900' , resting on a horizontal plane C and joining two sides of a frame segment 952 to form a corner of a frame.
  • a frame 952, a channel cavity 960, an inner channel cavity edge 960i, an outer channel cavity edge 960o, an inner frame edge 90 li, an outer frame edge 90 lo, a first end 914a, and a second end 914b, are substantially similar to their counterparts in Figure 6D, frame 652a' ' ' , channel cavity 660" ' , inner channel cavity edge 660i' ' ' , outer channel cavity edge 660o' ' ' , inner frame edge 601i' ' ' , outer frame edge 601o” ', first end 614a' ", and second end 614b' ".
  • a corner key 900' arms 940a' and 940b', inner arm edges 940ai' and 940bi', outer arm edges 940ao' and 940bo', a relief portion 944', and a connecting portion 948', are substantially similar to their counterparts in Figure 9 A, i.e. , arms 940a and 940b, inner arm edges 940ai and 940bi, outer arm edges 940ao and 940bo, relief portion 944, and connecting portion 948'.
  • Key 900' also shows dented portion 950 disposed on connecting portion 948'.
  • the present teachings thus propose an inexpensive and relatively easy-to-build design that also preserves the viewing area of a window or building cavity covered with a fenestration assembly, while avoiding the traying effect associated with higher tensions in substrates.
  • the "traying effect" in fenestrations assemblies may be reduced or eliminated, while at the same time maintaining substrate tensions sufficient to overcome the "corner problem.”
  • Figure 10A shows a perspective view of a corner key 1000 having a bent
  • each of the arms of corner key 1000 is bent relative to a relatively flat connecting portion 1048.
  • Key arms 1040a and 1040b, inner arm edges 1040ai and 1040bi, outer arm edges 1040ao and 1040bo, a relief portion 1044, and a connecting portion 1048 are substantially similar to their counterparts in Figure 9A, arms 940a and 940b, inner arm edges 940ai and 940bi, outer arm edges 940ao and 940bo, relief portion 944, and connecting portion 948.
  • Figure 10A shows arms 1040a and 1040b disposed at an angle relative to connecting portion 1048.
  • arms 1040a and 1040b are "bent,” or “twisted,” relative to connecting portion 1048.
  • This twist products a bend in the corner of a frame when corner key 1000 is in use.
  • a corner key having a bent configuration means that inner arm edge 1040ai or 1040bi is resting on, intersects, or substantially aligns with a horizontal plane upon which the corner key is resting, while the other inner or out arm edge is raised or lowered relative to that horizontal plane.
  • corner key 1000 is configured with arms that are twisted relative to connecting portion 1048, as shown in Figure 10A.
  • corner key 1000 is fabricated in a relatively flat configuration (e.g. , as shown with respect to key 900 of Figure 9A).
  • a twist may then be introduced to each arm.
  • each of arms 1040a and 1040b may be twisted (e.g. , manually or mechanically) and then engaged with ends of frame segments.
  • a twist in arms 1040a and 1040b may be introduced by first engaging and/or mating the ends of arms 1040a and 1040b with channel cavities of a frame segment and subsequently twisting the sides of the frame segment in a manner that produces a bend or twist in a corner key arm.
  • Figure 10B shows a front view of a corner key 1000' , according to one embodiment of the present arrangements.
  • Arms 1040a' and 1040b', inner arm edges 1040ai' and 1040bi', outer arm edges 1040ao' and 1040bo', and a connecting portion 1048' are substantially similar to their counterparts in Figure 10A, arms 1040a and 1040b, inner arm edges 1040ai and 1040bi, outer arm edges 1040ao and 1040bo, and connecting portion 1048, respectively.
  • Figure 10B shows corner key 1000' having an arm with inner arm edge 1040bi' twisted in a relatively counterclockwise direction along an axis that extends the length of a corner key arm, relative to connecting portion 1048'.
  • the present teachings recognize, however, that a corner key arm may be twisted in a similar manner in an opposite direction. Further, the present teachings contemplate twists in corner key arms of varying degrees.
  • a corner key having twisted or bent arms provides certain key advantages.
  • that twisted or bent arm may then be maintained in a straightened state to produce a torque, or a force, that seeks to return to the twisted or bent state.
  • a corner key arm having a "counterclockwise" twist e.g. , corner key arms 1040a and 1040b in Figure 10B
  • corner key arms 1040a and 1040b in Figure 10B may be forced back into a "straightened” state, which produces a force that seeks to return to that counterclockwise states.
  • this feature may be manipulated to introduce such force into a fenestration assembly to oppose the force produced by tension in a substrate (e.g., Force Fi shown in Figure 2B).
  • a corner key may be configured with arms that bend downward (relative to a horizontal plane) to produce a force that opposes a force that bends a frame upwards (e.g. , Force Fi shown in Figure 2B).
  • This has a "straightening" effect on the fenestration assembly sides, which may be sufficient to overcome the traying effect associated with high-tensioned substrates of the present fenestration assemblies.
  • the present teachings facilitate the production of fenestration assemblies that may be maintained in relatively flat configurations and that maintain taut substrates with a pleasing, glass-like appearance.
  • Figure 11 shows a side-sectional view of a fenestration assembly 1100, according to one preferred embodiment of the present arrangements and being maintained in a slightly bent configuration by opposing forces.
  • Fenestration assembly sides 1104 and 1108, outer fenestration assembly edges 1104o and 1108o, inner fenestration assembly edges 1104i and 1108i, a substrate 1110, a horizontal plane, "C,” a plane, "F,” a force, "Fi,” and an angle, " ⁇ ,” are substantially similar to their counterparts in Figure 2B, i.e., fenestration assembly sides 204 and 208, outer fenestration assembly edges 204o and 208o, inner fenestration assembly edges 204i and 208i, substrate 210, horizontal plane, "C,” plane, “F,” force Fi, and angle, " ⁇ ,” respectively.
  • Corner keys 1105a and 1105b, inner arm edges 1140ai and 1140bi, and outer arm edges 1140ao and 1140bo are substantially similar to their counterparts in Figure 10A, i.e. , corner key 1000, inner arm edge 1040ai, and outer arm edge 1040ao, respectively.
  • corner key arms 1105a and 1105b are secured inside fenestration assembly sides 1108 and 1104, respectively.
  • corner key arms 1105a and 1105b are engaged with channel cavities of frame segments that are components of fenestration assembly sides 1104 and 1108.
  • outer fenestration assembly edges 1104o and 1108o are raised slightly relative to inner fenestration assembly edges 1104i and 1108i, respectively.
  • outer corner key edges 1140ao and 1140bo are shown raised slightly relative to inner corner key edges 1140ai and 1140bi, respectively.
  • fenestration assembly 1100 may be thought of as having a slightly bent configuration.
  • the degree of bend in fenestration assembly side 1108 is represented by angle ⁇ , i.e. , the angular distance between planes F and C, which represents the degree of bend associated with the fenestration assemblies of the present teachings.
  • Figure 11 also shows two opposing forces, Fi and F 2 , acting on fenestration assembly sides 1108 and 1104.
  • force Fi is a force generated by tension introduced to substrate 1110 due to the off-center configuration of fenestration assembly side 1108.
  • force Fi produces a force that raises outer fenestration assembly edges 1104o and 1108o relative to horizontal plane C.
  • FI produces a force that lowers outer fenestration assembly edges 1104o and 1108o relative to horizontal plane C.
  • Figure 11 also shows a force F 2 , however, that opposes force Fi.
  • Force F 2 may be thought of as the force that is produced by a twist, or bend, introduced to a corner key arm of the present fenestration assemblies.
  • the present teachings recognize that a bend, or twist, in a corner key arm may generate a force (e.g., force F 2 ) that opposes a force pulling the corner key arm to a flat configuration.
  • force F 2 is sufficient to reduce or eliminate the traying effect associated with substrates that are placed at relatively higher tensions (i.e. , as explained above with reference to Figure 2B). As shown in Figure 11, substrate 1110 does not suffer from this traying effect.
  • Figure 11 shows sides 1104 and 1108 bent slightly upward, it is noteworthy that in the absence of force F 2 , the bends in sides 1104 and 1108 may be more pronounced, i.e. , the value of angle ⁇ may be larger. Likewise, in the absence of force Fi, sides 1104 and 1108 may be bent further downward.
  • the present teachings thus recognize that by manipulating the magnitudes of Fi and F 2 in the fenestration assemblies of the present teachings, certain desired configurations of those fenestration assemblies may be achieved.
  • Fl is slightly greater in magnitude than F2, producing a slight upward bend in the fenestrations assembly arms.
  • the present teachings contemplate any number of configurations of fenestration assembly components produced opposing forces Fi and F 2 .
  • opposing forces Fi and F 2 are relatively close or equal in magnitude, they facilitate production of fenestrations assemblies having a relatively flat configuration (i.e. , where a value for angle ⁇ has a value that is at or near about 0 degrees).
  • forces Fi and F 2 may produce a fenestration assembly having bent configurations based on the difference in magnitudes between opposing forces Fi and F 2 .
  • the present teachings contemplate manipulating the values of Fi and F 2 to produce fenestration assemblies having various configurations.
  • a value of Fl may be manipulated by changing the tension of the substrates used in the fenestration assemblies of the present teaching.
  • a value of F 2 may be manipulated by introducing more extreme bends to a corner key arm, or by using materials in corner key arms of varying degrees of stiffness.
  • the present teachings recognize that opposing forces Fi and F 2 applied to a fenestration assembly produces fenestration assemblies that are relatively "springy.” Further, they also facilitate additional tension in a substrate (i.e., because the force resulting from additional tensioner in the substrate, Fi, may be counterbalanced by force F 2 ). Thus, the fenestration assemblies of the present teachings provide an undisturbed and wrinkle-free appearance, akin to window glass.
  • FIG 12 is a flowchart of certain salient steps of a process 1200 for building a fenestration assembly, according to one embodiment of the present teachings.
  • Process 1200 begins with a step 1202, which include obtaining a frame segment (e.g. , frame segment 352 of Figure 3) that includes a channel cavity (e.g. , channel cavity 360 of Figure 3) extending from one end to the other end of the frame extrusion.
  • a frame segment e.g. , frame segment 352 of Figure 3
  • a channel cavity e.g. , channel cavity 360 of Figure 3
  • a step 1204 includes obtaining a corner key including two arms, each having an inner and an outer edge (e.g. , corner key 900 of Figure 9 A).
  • a corner key including two arms, each having an inner and an outer edge (e.g. , corner key 900 of Figure 9 A).
  • multiple corner keys are obtained to build multiple corners of a frame.
  • any corner stabilizer capable of connecting frame segments and carrying out the steps of the present teachings may be used.
  • a step 1206 includes engaging and/or mating one of the key arms at one of the ends of the channel cavity to form a part of the frame.
  • the inner edge of the key arm faces towards an interior region of the frame and is opposite to the outer edge of the key arm, which faces towards an exterior of the frame (e.g. , as shown in Figure 9B, which shows the arms of corner key 900' engaged and or mated with channel cavity 960 of frame segment 952).
  • the other key arm may be engaged and/or mated in a similar manner to another frame segment to facilitate producing a corner of a frame.
  • the present teachings recognize that multiple keys may be used to connect multiple frame segments to form a closed frame. By way of example, for corner keys may be used to join four frame segments to build a rectangular- shaped frame.
  • a step 1208 includes displacing the inner edge of the key arm a certain distance relative to a horizontal plane that intersects the outer edge of at least one of the arms or displacing the outer edge of at least one of the arms a certain distance relative to a horizontal plane that interests the inner edge of at least one of the arms.
  • step 1208 includes introducing a bend to the key arm while it is engaged and/or mated inside the frame segment's channel cavity.
  • a bend may be introduced to a key arm prior to engaging and/or mating with the channel cavity.
  • a key may be fabricated with a bend.
  • a bend may be introduced to a key arm prior to engaging and/or mating the key arm with the channel cavity.
  • the present teachings contemplate producing a fenestration assembly side having a bent configuration when the bent key arm is engaged and/or mated with a channel cavity.
  • a step 1210 includes maintaining the frame in a relatively flat configuration.
  • step 1210 requires maintaining the frame in any desired configuration.
  • step 1210 is not necessary, and the frame need not be maintained in a flat (or any desired) configuration prior to advancing to step 1212.
  • the present teachings recognize that maintaining the flat configuration of the frame side resists a force generated by the straightened corner key arm seeking to return to its bent state (i.e. , force F 2 of Figure 11).
  • a force generated by the straightened corner key arm seeking to return to its bent state i.e. , force F 2 of Figure 11.
  • securing the fenestration assembly side in a flat configuration will produce a force that, in the absence of such securing, will return the key arm (and the frame to which it is engaged and/or mated) to its bent configuration.
  • a table may be configured to secure the frame in a relatively flat configuration.
  • the table provides a force sufficient to overcome the force produced when the flattened key arm seeks to return to its bent configuration.
  • further steps in building a frame and/or fenestration assembly may be carried out while the frame is secured to the table, thus maintaining the frame in a flat configuration.
  • a step 1212 includes adhering a substrate (e.g. , substrate 1110 of Figure 11 A) to the frame.
  • Adhering in step 1208 may be carried out by any means known to those of skill in the art.
  • adhering may be carried out be taping a substrate to a frame, or by placing a substrate on a frame.
  • a substrate used by the present fenestration assemblies may be any window film, and more preferably, transparent window film that increases a window's energy efficiency and that is capable of being secured by the fenestration assemblies of the present teachings.
  • a step 1214 includes placing the substrate under tension. Placing the substrate under tension may be carried out by any technique known to those of skill in the art. According to one embodiment of the present teachings, placing the substrate under tension may be carried out be engaging and/or mating a tensioner segment (e.g. , tensioner segment 354 of Figure 3) with the frame segment.
  • a tensioner segment e.g. , tensioner segment 354 of Figure 3
  • the frame while the frame is maintained in a flat configuration, it is subject to potential energy available from two opposing forces: one force produced by the key arm seeking to return to its bent configuration (e.g., force F 2 of Figure 11), and an opposing force generated by placing the substrate under tension (e.g. , force Fi of Figure 11).
  • the present teachings recognize, however, that when the frame is no longer maintained in a flat configuration (e.g. , when the frame is released from a table configured to maintain the frame in a flat configuration), opposing forces Fi and F 2 will act on the frame.
  • the magnitudes of Fi and F 2 are relatively equal (though preferably opposite in direction), producing a frame and/or fenestration assembly having a relatively flat configuration. In other words, Fi and F 2 essentially cancel each other out. In other embodiments of the present teachings, the magnitudes of Fi and F 2 having different magnitudes, producing a frame and/or fenestration assembly having a bent
  • the present teachings further recognize that the fenestrations assemblies of the present teachings, having Fi and F 2 acting against each other, are thought to produce very tight substrates, as well as a "springy" feel to the frame and/or fenestration assembly, that is aesthetically pleasing.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Civil Engineering (AREA)
  • Structural Engineering (AREA)
  • Securing Of Glass Panes Or The Like (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention porte sur un ensemble de cadre. L'ensemble de cadre comprend (i) un premier segment de cadre ayant deux extrémités et une première cavité de canal définie à l'intérieur de ce dernier, la première cavité de canal s'étendant à partir d'une extrémité jusqu'à une autre extrémité du premier segment de cadre ; (ii) une clavette comprenant deux bras, dont l'un vient en prise et/ou s'accouple avec la première cavité de canal à l'une de deux extrémités du premier segment de cadre de façon à former au moins une partie d'un cadre ; et chacun des bras comprenant un bord interne et un bord externe, le bord interne étant dirigé vers une région intérieure du cadre et étant opposé au bord externe, et le bord externe étant dirigé vers l'extérieur du cadre, et, quand le cadre s'étend le long d'un plan horizontal qui croise sensiblement et/ou qui s'aligne avec un ou l'autre du bord interne ou du bord externe, soit le bord externe soit le bord interne, qui ne croise pas le plan horizontal, étant élevé ou abaissé d'une certaine distance par rapport au plan horizontal.
PCT/US2015/039820 2014-07-09 2015-07-09 Systèmes et procédés associés à des ensembles de fenêtrage à bon rendement en énergie WO2016007794A1 (fr)

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Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2018094056A1 (fr) * 2016-11-16 2018-05-24 Spring-E-Frame, Llc Ensemble de fenêtrage éconergétique

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
KR19980024964U (ko) * 1998-04-25 1998-07-25 장동만 건구용 코너 이음매
KR20110052026A (ko) * 2009-11-12 2011-05-18 (주)엘지하우시스 내풍압 개선용 보강부재가 구비된 창호
US20130019558A1 (en) * 2011-07-21 2013-01-24 Huang-Chi Tseng Corner key and frame assembly
US20130064600A1 (en) * 2011-09-08 2013-03-14 Huang-Chi Tseng Corner key and frame assembly thereof
KR101250927B1 (ko) * 2011-02-16 2013-04-04 한국메탈주식회사 안전 방충창

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
KR19980024964U (ko) * 1998-04-25 1998-07-25 장동만 건구용 코너 이음매
KR20110052026A (ko) * 2009-11-12 2011-05-18 (주)엘지하우시스 내풍압 개선용 보강부재가 구비된 창호
KR101250927B1 (ko) * 2011-02-16 2013-04-04 한국메탈주식회사 안전 방충창
US20130019558A1 (en) * 2011-07-21 2013-01-24 Huang-Chi Tseng Corner key and frame assembly
US20130064600A1 (en) * 2011-09-08 2013-03-14 Huang-Chi Tseng Corner key and frame assembly thereof

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2018094056A1 (fr) * 2016-11-16 2018-05-24 Spring-E-Frame, Llc Ensemble de fenêtrage éconergétique

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