U.S. patent application number 10/903567 was filed with the patent office on 2005-06-16 for roof vent having labyrinth features.
This patent application is currently assigned to MonierLifetile, LLC. Invention is credited to Dodge, Christopher S..
Application Number | 20050130581 10/903567 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34656919 |
Filed Date | 2005-06-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050130581 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Dodge, Christopher S. |
June 16, 2005 |
Roof vent having labyrinth features
Abstract
A roof vent construction which is comprised of an assembly
including a cowl, a base, and a cowl retaining member. These
elements provide a structure which provides cover for rain and
discourages rain from entering the vent underneath the cowl, but
nevertheless allows for suitable ventilation as needed. In one
embodiment a configuration is used in which an external baffle is
used which air passes before passing underneath a cowl. Once the
air is passed underneath the cowl, the air then passes over one and
one configuration two internal baffles before the air passes out of
a pair of vent cavities defined by the base. In a second
configuration, a cowl extends substantially to the leading edge of
the construction. Air flows underneath the leading edge of the cowl
and then passes over a large internal baffle, over a first small
internal baffle, and finally over a second small internal baffle
before passing through the vent cavities and out of the structure.
Another invention relates to the use of two surface portions on the
vent assembly, one surface portion configured to match a first
course of tiles and the other surface portion configured to match a
second course of tiles adjacent to said first course of tiles.
Inventors: |
Dodge, Christopher S.;
(Trabuco Canyon, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
ALSTON & BIRD LLP
BANK OF AMERICA PLAZA
101 SOUTH TRYON STREET, SUITE 4000
CHARLOTTE
NC
28280-4000
US
|
Assignee: |
MonierLifetile, LLC
|
Family ID: |
34656919 |
Appl. No.: |
10/903567 |
Filed: |
July 30, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60491405 |
Jul 31, 2003 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
454/366 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F24F 7/02 20130101; E04D
2001/309 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
454/366 |
International
Class: |
F24F 007/02 |
Claims
That which is claimed:
1. A roof vent assembly for use in connection with an inclined roof
structure including a plurality of tile members supported by a
roofing support structure, said vent assembly configured to provide
ventilation to said roof structure and comprising: a base member
configured to be attached to and supported by said roofing support
structure, said base member including a ventilation hole and at
least one rib below said ventilation hole; and a cowl member
including a leading edge, said cowl member configured to be mounted
above said ventilation hole of said base member, said cowl member
also configured to cover said rib, such that a portion of air
blowing up the incline of the roof structure has to pass along a
labyrinth air flow path, said air flow path passing first
underneath said leading edge of said cowl member and then over said
rib, and finally through said ventilation hole.
2. A vent assembly for use in connection with an inclined roof
structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein said attachment of said
base to said supporting roof structure is via nails.
3. A vent assembly for use in connection with an inclined roof
structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein said base further
comprises an external baffle at the foot edge of the base, such
that air first goes over the large external baffle and then
underneath the cowl.
4. A vent assembly for use in connection with an inclined roof
structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein said vent assembly
includes a combination of base and cowl that generally simulates a
flat tile structure.
5. A vent assembly for use in connection with an inclined roof
structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein said vent assembly
includes a combination of base and cowl that generally simulates a
"humped" tile structure.
6. A vent assembly for use in connection with an inclined roof
structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein said vent assembly
includes a combination of base and cowl that generally simulates a
"two humped" tile structure.
7. A vent assembly for use in connection with an inclined roof
structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein said vent assembly
includes a combination of base and cowl that generally simulates a
"three humped" tile structure.
8. A roof vent assembly for use in connection with an inclined roof
structure including a plurality of tile members supported by a
roofing support structure, said vent assembly configured to provide
ventilation to said roof structure and comprising: a base member
configured to be attached to and supported by said roofing support
structure, said base member including a ventilation hole and also
including a front external baffle positioned proximate its front
edge; and a cowl member including a leading edge, said cowl member
configured to be mounted above said ventilation hole of said base
member while leaving said front external baffle of said base member
exposed, said leading edge being positioned behind said external
baffle, such that a portion of air blowing up the incline of the
roof structure has to pass along a labyrinth air flow path, said
air flow path passing first over said front external baffle of said
base member, underneath said leading edge of said cowl member, and
finally through said ventilation hole.
9. A vent assembly for use in connection with an inclined roof
structure as claimed in claim 8, wherein said vent assembly
includes a combination of base and cowl that generally simulates a
flat tile structure.
10. A vent assembly for use in connection with an inclined roof
structure as claimed in claim 8, wherein said vent assembly
includes a combination of base and cowl that generally simulates a
"humped" tile structure.
11. A vent assembly for use in connection with an inclined roof
structure as claimed in claim 8, wherein said vent assembly
includes a combination of base and cowl that generally simulates a
"two humped" tile structure.
12. A vent assembly for use in connection with an inclined roof
structure as claimed in claim 8, wherein said vent assembly
includes a combination of base and cowl that generally simulates a
"three humped" tile structure.
13. A roof vent assembly for positioning within a first generally
horizontal course of roof tiles, said first course of tiles being
adjacent to and below a second generally horizontal course of roof
tiles, said vent assembly comprising: A) a base defining at least
one upwardly-directed surface portion and a vent portion, said
surface portion of said base tending to blend in with at least some
of the upper surfaces of said first course of tiles; and B) a cowl
attached to and suspended above said vent portion of said base,
said cowl defining at least one surface portion tending to blend in
with said second course of tiles.
14. A vent assembly for use in connection with an inclined roof
structure as claimed in claim 13, wherein said vent assembly
includes a combination of base and cowl that generally simulates a
flat tile structure.
15. A vent assembly for use in connection with an inclined roof
structure as claimed in claim 13, wherein said vent assembly
includes a combination of base and cowl that generally simulates a
"humped" tile structure.
16. A vent assembly for use in connection with an inclined roof
structure as claimed in claim 13, wherein said vent assembly
includes a combination of base and cowl that generally simulates a
"two humped" tile structure.
17. A vent assembly for use in connection with an inclined roof
structure as claimed in claim 13, wherein said vent assembly
includes a combination of base and cowl that generally simulates a
"three humped" tile structure.
18. A roof vent assembly for positioning within a first generally
horizontal course of roof tiles, said first course of tiles being
adjacent to and below a second generally horizontal course of roof
tiles, said vent assembly comprising: A) a base defining at least
one upwardly-directed surface portion and a vent portion, said
surface portion of said base configured to substantially match at
least some of the upper surfaces of said first course of tiles; and
B) a cowl attached to and suspended above said vent portion of said
base, said cowl defining at least one surface portion configured to
substantially match at least some of the upper surfaces of said
second course of tiles.
19. A vent assembly for use in connection with an inclined roof
structure as claimed in claim 18, wherein said vent assembly
includes a combination of base and cowl that generally simulates a
flat tile structure.
20. A vent assembly for use in connection with an inclined roof
structure as claimed in claim 18, wherein said vent assembly
includes a combination of base and cowl that generally simulates a
"humped" tile structure.
21. A vent assembly for use in connection with an inclined roof
structure as claimed in claim 18, wherein said vent assembly
includes a combination of base and cowl that generally simulates a
"two humped" tile structure.
22. A vent assembly for use in connection with an inclined roof
structure as claimed in claim 18, wherein said vent assembly
includes a combination of base and cowl that generally simulates a
"three humped" tile structure.
23. A method for providing a roof vent assembly positioned within a
first generally horizontal course of roof tiles, said first course
of tiles being adjacent to and below a second generally horizontal
course of roof tiles, said method comprising the steps of: A)
providing a base defining at least one upwardly-directed surface
portion and a vent portion, said surface portion of said base
configured to blend in with at least some of the upper surfaces of
said first course of tiles; and B) providing a cowl attached to and
suspended above said vent portion of said base, said cowl defining
at least one surface portion configured to blend in with at least
some of the upper surfaces of said second course of tiles.
24. A method for providing a roof vent assembly for use in
connection with an inclined roof structure as claimed in claim 23,
wherein said vent assembly includes a combination of base and cowl
that generally simulates a flat tile structure.
25. A method for providing a roof vent assembly for use in
connection with an inclined roof structure as claimed in claim 23,
wherein said vent assembly includes a combination of base and cowl
that generally simulates a "humped" tile structure.
26. A method for providing a roof vent assembly for use in
connection with an inclined roof structure as claimed in claim 23,
wherein said vent assembly includes a combination of base and cowl
that generally simulates a "two humped" tile structure.
27. A method for providing a roof vent assembly for use in
connection with an inclined roof structure as claimed in claim 23,
wherein said vent assembly includes a combination of base and cowl
that generally simulates a "three humped" tile structure.
28. A method for providing a roof vent assembly positioned within a
first generally horizontal course of roof tiles, said first course
of tiles being adjacent to and below a second generally horizontal
course of roof tiles, said method comprising the steps of: A)
providing a base defining at least one upwardly-directed surface
portion and a vent portion, said surface portion of said base
configured to substantially match at least some of the upper
surfaces of said first course of tiles; and B) providing a cowl
attached to and suspended above said vent portion of said base,
said cowl defining at least one surface portion configured to
substantially match at least some of the upper surfaces of said
second course of tiles.
29. A method for providing a roof vent assembly for use in
connection with an inclined roof structure as claimed in claim 28,
wherein said vent assembly includes a combination of base and cowl
that generally simulates a flat tile structure.
30. A method for providing a roof vent assembly for use in
connection with an inclined roof structure as claimed in claim 28,
wherein said vent assembly includes a combination of base and cowl
that generally simulates a "humped" tile structure.
31. A method for providing a roof vent assembly for use in
connection with an inclined roof structure as claimed in claim 28,
wherein said vent assembly includes a combination of base and cowl
that generally simulates a "two humped" tile structure.
32. A method for providing a roof vent assembly for use in
connection with an inclined roof structure as claimed in claim 28,
wherein said vent assembly includes a combination of base and cowl
that generally simulates a "three humped" tile structure.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the full benefit and priority of
pending provisional application No. 60/491,405, filed, Jul. 31,
2003, entitled "Roof Vent Having Labyrinth Features". The entire
contents of this provisional application are likewise incorporated
by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] In the construction of roofing, it is known to provide roofs
made of individual roofing elements. The elements can be flexible,
such as asphalt shingles, or rigid, such as clay or concrete
tiles.
[0003] It is also known to provide vents in the roofing structure
to provide roof ventilation. However, providing such venting can
introduce problems relating to the prevention of water being drawn
in along with the ventilating air flow. Therefore there is a need
in the art to provide an improvement of such vents.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The present invention provides in improvement of over the
art by providing an improved roof vent that includes improved
ventilation features as well as improved aesthetic features.
[0005] Generally described, the present invention is directed
towards a roof vent assembly for use in connection with an inclined
roof structure including a plurality of tile members supported by a
roofing support structure, the vent assembly configured to provide
ventilation to the roof structure and comprising a base member
configured to be attached to and supported by the roofing support
structure, the base member including a ventilation hole and at
least one rib below the ventilation hole, and a cowl member
including a leading edge, the cowl member configured to be mounted
above the ventilation hole of the base member, the cowl member also
configured to cover the rib, such that a portion of air blowing up
the incline of the roof structure has to pass along a labyrinth air
flow path, the air flow path passing first underneath the leading
edge of the cowl member and then over the rib, and finally through
the ventilation hole.
[0006] The present invention is also directed towards a roof vent
assembly for use in connection with an inclined roof structure
including a plurality of tile members supported by a roofing
support structure, the vent assembly configured to provide
ventilation to the roof structure and comprising a base member
configured to be attached to and supported by the roofing support
structure, the base member including a ventilation hole and also
including a front external baffle positioned proximate its front
edge, and a cowl member including a leading edge, the cowl member
configured to be mounted above the ventilation hole of the base
member while leaving the front external baffle of the base member
exposed, the leading edge being positioned behind the external
baffle, such that a portion of air blowing up the incline of the
roof structure has to pass along a labyrinth air flow path, the air
flow path passing first over the front external baffle of the base
member, underneath the leading edge of the cowl member, and finally
through the ventilation hole.
[0007] The present invention is also directed towards roof vent
assembly for positioning within a first generally horizontal course
of roof tiles, the first course of tiles being adjacent to and
below a second generally horizontal course of roof tiles, the vent
assembly comprising A) a base defining at least one
upwardly-directed surface portion and a vent portion, the surface
portion of the base tending to blend in with at least some of the
upper surfaces of the first course of tiles, and B) a cowl attached
to and suspended above the vent portion of the base, the cowl
defining at least one surface portion tending to blend in with the
second course of tiles.
[0008] The present invention is also directed towards a roof vent
assembly for positioning within a first generally horizontal course
of roof tiles, the first course of tiles being adjacent to and
below a second generally horizontal course of roof tiles, the vent
assembly comprising A) a base defining at least one
upwardly-directed surface portion and a vent portion, the surface
portion of the base configured to substantially match at least some
of the upper surfaces of the first course of tiles, and B) a cowl
attached to and suspended above the vent portion of the base, the
cowl defining at least one surface portion configured to
substantially match at least some of the upper surfaces of the
second course of tiles.
[0009] The present invention is also directed towards a method for
providing a roof vent assembly positioned within a first generally
horizontal course of roof tiles, the first course of tiles being
adjacent to and below a second generally horizontal course of roof
tiles, the method comprising the steps of A) providing a base
defining at least one upwardly-directed surface portion and a vent
portion, the surface portion of the base configured to blend in
with at least some of the upper surfaces of the first course of
tiles, and B) providing a cowl attached to and suspended above the
vent portion of the base, the cowl defining at least one surface
portion configured to blend in with at least some of the upper
surfaces of the second course of tiles.
[0010] The present invention is also directed towards a method for
providing a roof vent assembly positioned within a first generally
horizontal course of roof tiles, the first course of tiles being
adjacent to and below a second generally horizontal course of roof
tiles, the method comprising the steps of A) providing a base
defining at least one upwardly-directed surface portion and a vent
portion, the surface portion of the base configured to
substantially match at least some of the upper surfaces of the
first course of tiles, and B) providing a cowl attached to and
suspended above the vent portion of the base, the cowl defining at
least one surface portion configured to substantially match at
least some of the upper surfaces of the second course of tiles.
[0011] Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to
provide an improved roof structure.
[0012] It is a further object of the present invention to provide
an improved roof structure, which includes at least one roof
vent.
[0013] It is a further object of the present invention to provide
an improved roof vent.
[0014] It is a further object of the present invention to provide
an improved roof vent that includes improved rain exclusion
features.
[0015] It is a further object of the present invention to provide
an improved roof vent that includes improved wind exclusion
features.
[0016] It is a further object of the present invention to provide
an improved roof vent that includes improved aesthetic
features.
[0017] It is a further object of the present invention to provide
an improved roof vent that includes improved aesthetic features
while at the same time including improved functional features.
[0018] It is a further object of the present invention to provide
an improved roof vent that is economical to manufacture while still
providing improved functional and aesthetic features.
[0019] It is a further object of the present invention to provide
an improved roof vent that is economical to sell while still
including improved functional and aesthetic features.
[0020] Other objects, features, and advantages of the present
invention will become apparent upon reading the following detailed
description of the preferred embodiment of the invention when taken
in conjunction with the drawing and the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] Having thus described the invention in general terms,
reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are
not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:
[0022] FIGS. 1-7 are drawings of one embodiment of the invention,
which includes the use of a "flat" vent assembly including a single
external baffle 34 in front of a cowl 20.
[0023] FIG. 1 is a pictorial view of a first embodiment of a flat
vent assembly 10 according to one aspect of the present invention.
The vent assembly 10 includes a cowl 20, a base 30, and a cowl
retention member 40.
[0024] FIG. 2 is a left side elevational view of the flat vent
assembly 10 shown in FIG. 1
[0025] FIG. 3 is a right side elevational view of the flat vent
assembly 10 shown in FIG. 1.
[0026] FIG. 4 is a foot (or "leading") end elevational view of the
flat vent assembly 10 shown in FIG. 1.
[0027] FIG. 5 is a head (or "trailing") end elevational view of the
flat vent assembly 10 shown in FIG. 1.
[0028] FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the flat vent assembly 10 shown
in FIG. 1.
[0029] FIG. 7 is a lower plan view of the vent assembly 10
according to one aspect of the present invention. As may be seen,
the cowl 20 is visible through the two vent cavities 32, which are
provided in the base 30 of the vent assembly 10.
[0030] FIG. 8 is a pictorial view of a second embodiment of a flat
roof vent assembly 110.
[0031] FIG. 9 is an exploded view of that shown in FIG. 8, showing
some components thereof, namely the cowl 120 and the base 130.
[0032] FIG. 10 is a pictorial view of a third embodiment of a flat
roof vent assembly 210. This assembly 210 includes a cowl 220 and a
base 230. The assembly 210 also includes a cowl retention member
not shown in this figure but illustrated later as 240 in FIG.
13.
[0033] FIG. 11 is an isolated pictorial view of the base 230 of
FIG. 10. It may be seen that there is an upturned peripheral wall
236 extending around the vent opening 232, which is defined by the
base. The upturned wall 232 is configured to reduce the opportunity
for water to pass therethrough; instead the water is preferably
diverted down the slope and out of the vent.
[0034] FIG. 12 is an isolated view of the cowl 220 of FIG. 10,
except the cowl has been "flipped over" 180 degrees to show its
underside. The cowl 220 includes two types of elongate members,
which extend downwardly in a common orientation. The first type of
elongate members are "standoff feet" 225, and the second type are
"engaging tabs" 226. In the embodiment shown there are six (6) of
the standoff feet 225, and six (6) of the engaging tabs 226,
although other numbers could be used.
[0035] FIG. 13 is a bottom plan view of a cowl retention member
240, as the member would be viewed if the vent assembly was viewed
from the underneath when assembled. The cowl retention member 240
is in one embodiment a single one piece molded design although
other designs are contemplated. The cowl retention member 240
includes a continuous peripheral wall 241, which will be seen to be
shaped somewhat like a pentagon, and in any case shaped
corresponding to the vent opening 232 in the base 230 of the flat
roof vent assembly 210. Positioned about the wall 241 is a
plurality (six are shown in this embodiment) of cowl engaging
portions 242, which are configured to engage the six corresponding
tabs 226 of the cowl 220. Referring now also to FIG. 15, this
peripheral wall 241 could be thought of as having an "L"-shaped
transverse cross section comprised of a first wall 241-A, which
fits within the vent opening, and a second, "flange" wall 241-B,
which when installed fits in planar contact with the underside of
the floor plate 231 of the base, proximate the vent opening. The
cowl-retaining member 240 also includes a plurality of ribs 247
which provide structural integrity to the member 240.
[0036] FIG. 14 is an isolated view of that shown in the dotted line
circle of FIG. 13, with the addition of a tab 266 shown in dotted
line extending up into the plane of the paper. The figure shows an
exemplary cowl engaging portion 242 of the cowl retention member
240, particularly showing the manner in which a tab 226 (shown in
transverse cross section in dotted line) engages the barb 245
defined by the cowl retention member 240, and is contained on its
sides by loop 246. This engagement is done by engagement between
the barb 245 and a hole 226H in the end of the tab 226, shown in
FIG. 12. As may be seen, the loop 246 may include needed small
(three are shown) locating stubs (not numbered), which locate the
position of the tab 226 in its desired place. It may be understood
that as the tab is pressed into place (it would be moved towards
the viewer during the insertion process), the barb 245, essentially
being a hump of plastic, "snaps" into place in the hole 226H in the
end of the tab 266, thus interlocking the cowl retention member 240
relative to the cowl. As discussed elsewhere, the cowl retention
member 240 and the cowl 220 combine to capture the base 230
therebetween. Reference can also be made to FIG. 20 to better
understand the manner in which the cowl retention member 240 fits
up within the hole in the base 230.
[0037] FIG. 15 is an isolated view illustrating the manner in which
the peripheral wall 241 (of the cowl retaining member 240) fits
within the opening 232 of the base 230. The orientation shown is
with the base directed upwardly, with the view from the side. The
peripheral wall 241 could be thought of as having an "L"-shaped
transverse cross section comprised of a first wall 241-A, which
fits within the vent opening, and a second, "flange" wall 241-B,
which when installed fits in planar contact with the underside of
the floor plate 231 of the base, proximate the vent opening. This
allows the peripheral wall 241 (of the cowl retaining member 240)
to fit within the opening 232 of the base 230 in a "nesting manner.
The nesting is shown in FIG. 20.
[0038] FIG. 16 is a pictorial view of a two-humped vent assembly
510 according to the present invention. The two-humped vent
assembly 510 includes a cowl 520 and a base 530. As may be seen,
the base 530 includes multiple nail hole locations 539, and also
includes two standoff nodules 538, which extend downwardly to
provide support of the base 530 atop the battens or other
supporting roof structure or members that support the tiles.
[0039] FIG. 17 is another view of the vent assembly of FIG. 16,
except that the view is from a lower perspective to show the manner
in which the cowl 520 extends upwardly relative to the base 530.
This view also shows the use of a "segmented" front external baffle
configuration, in which the front baffling function is provided by
baffle segments 535 which are located in the upwardly curved or
"valley" sections 536 of the base 530.
[0040] FIG. 18 is an isolated view of a portion of the cowl 520,
illustrating the manner in which the downwardly-directed standoff
feet 525 (a.k.a. support feet) contact the floor plate 531 of the
base 530.
[0041] FIG. 19 is an isolated view of a portion of the underside of
the base 530, illustrating a standoff nodule 538, which contacts
the roofing structure supporting the tiles and vents.
[0042] FIG. 20 is a pictorial view, viewed from the underside,
illustrating the interaction between a two-humped vent assembly 510
(viewer's left) and a typical similarly shaped tile "T" (viewer's
right). Particularly this shows the use of a location tab 537,
which extends from the base 530. This location tab 537 and the base
of the two-humped vent assembly 510 combine to capture the typical
similarly shaped tile to assist in the relative positioning of the
two and to keep the vent attached to the roof.
[0043] FIG. 21 is a pictorial view of a three-hump vent assembly
710, which includes a cowl 720 and a base 730. The base includes a
front external baffle 731 which as may be seen has a substantially
nominal height, and conforms to the curved and flat portions 735,
736, respectively, of the upwardly-directed upper major surface of
the base 730.
[0044] FIG. 22 is an illustrative view illustrating the dual-level
matching concept, as provided by a flat vent assembly configuration
10 mounted atop a roof supporting surface SS (which could be
provided by battens, a flat surface, or otherwise as known in the
art). The flat vent assembly 10 is mounted in one course of tiles,
which is above a course of tiles including tile A, and below a
course of tile including tile B. As may be understood, the upper
surface 20S of the cowl 20 is substantially in the same plane P as
is the upper surface of the flat tile B, while the upper major
surface 30S of the base 30 of the flat vent assembly 10 is aligned
with the upper surfaces of other tiles in its same course.
[0045] It may also be understood that this same type of dual level
matching applies to the other vent configurations. Although having
a curved upper surface, the upper surface of the cowls of the
assemblies 510, 710, likewise tend to blend in with the upper,
curved, surfaces of the tiles in the next course above, while the
curved upper major surfaces of the bases of these assemblies blend
in with the tiles in their same course.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0046] The present inventions now will be described more fully
hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which
some, but not all embodiments of the invention are shown in the
figures. Indeed, these inventions may be embodied in many different
forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set
forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this
disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers
refer to like elements throughout.
[0047] General Construction and Operation
[0048] Generally described, the vent assemblies described herein
include a base, which is attached relative to the supporting roof
structure, and a cowl, which is attached to the base and covers a
ventilation hole in the base.
[0049] In roof vents, the inventor has noted that in certain
instances it is desirable to bring the leading edge of the vent
cowl in line with the leading edge of adjacent field tiles. In so
doing, a constant shadow line is created on the roof, improving
aesthetic integration. However, this has been a challenge to the
inventors because of the conflicting functional need to prevent
wind driven rain entry through the vent.
[0050] One particular concept according to one aspect of the
present invention is to use internal labyrinths to afford this rain
protection. This provides an improvement over the prior art by
allowing the cap (a.k.a. cowl) to come to the leading edge of the
vent, in-line with the leading edge of adjacent roof tiles. This
enables a more aesthetic, integrated appearance on the roof.
[0051] Another concept according to the present invention is the
use of a front, external, baffle in front of the leading edge of
the vent cowl.
[0052] Another concept according to the present invention relates
to the provision of two different "levels" in the vent assembly,
each of which matches the contour of a different course of tiles
amongst which the vent is mounted. Said another way, the invention
includes the generic concept of matching tile profiles with vent
profiles.
[0053] Detailed Discussion
[0054] More detailed discussion is now made of the various
embodiments of the vent assemblies of the present invention. By way
of reference, it should be noted that the term "leading" edge is
meant to indicate the edge of the tile or tile vent that faces
"down" the roof towards the ground. This could also be termed the
"lower" or "foot" edge. Conversely, a "trailing" edge is meant to
indicate the edge of the tile that faces "up" the roof, away from
the ground. This could also be termed the "upper" or "head" edge.
"Side" edges are the remaining edges that connect the two.
[0055] There are three general types of vent assemblies that are
used under the present invention: a flat vent assembly, a "dual
hump" vent assembly, and a "triple hump" vent assembly. These
assemblies are configured to be used with tiles that have the same
general shape; such tiles will be recognized by one skilled in the
art. However it should be understood that the present inventions
described herein could be used with other shapes of tiles.
Furthermore, a concept shown in association with one vent assembly
(e.g., a flat vent assembly) could be used with another vent
assembly (e.g., a dual hump vent assembly).
[0056] The Flat Vent (FIGS. 1-15)
[0057] Reference is first made to FIG. 1, which is a pictorial view
of a flat vent assembly 10 according to one aspect of the present
invention. The vent assembly 10 includes a cowl 20, a base 30, and
also includes in one embodiment a cowl retention member (not shown
in FIG. 1). As discussed in later detail, the base member 30 fits
within a first course of tiles, and in at least one embodiment
includes an upwardly directed surface portion (in this case, flat)
that tends to conform to (or "match") upwardly directed surfaces of
the other tiles in the first course of tiles. The cowl member 20
includes an upwardly directed surface portion (in this case, also
being flat) that tends to follow the profile of the course of tiles
above the first course, this course being now referenced as the
"second" course.
[0058] A cowl retention member (not shown in FIG. 1, but discussed
in further detail later) is contemplated for use with this assembly
10 under one embodiment of the present invention. Under such an
embodiment, the cowl retention member would attach to tabs
extending down from underneath the cowl. These tabs would fit
within holes, blind or otherwise, that would accept the
downwardly-extending pin tips and retain them. When such an
engagement is made, the cowl retention member and the cowl combine
to grip the base.
[0059] Referring now also to FIG. 7, the base 30 includes a floor
plate 31 (which defines what may be referenced as a "lower major
surface"), two vent cavities 32 (see FIG. 7--note one or more than
two cavities could also be used), a generally planar raised shelf
33 having a U-shaped outline (which defines what may be referenced
as an "upper major surface"), a front external baffle 34, first and
second internal baffles 35, 36, (shown in other figures such as
FIG. 7) and defines left and right edges 38, 39.
[0060] The cowl 20 is attached to the base 30 of the vent assembly
10 by use of a vent retention member discussed below, and covers
the vent holes 32 (a.k.a. vent "cavities") in the base 30, and also
covers the first and second internal baffles 35, 36, and discussed
in later detail. However, the baffle 34 could be considered to be
in "front" of the front edge of the cowl 20, and the cowl 20
"behind" the baffle 34.
[0061] FIGS. 2 and 3 are left and right side elevational views of
the assembly shown in FIG. 1.
[0062] FIG. 4 is a foot (or "leading") end elevational view of the
assembly shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 5 is a head (or "trailing") end
elevational view of the assembly shown in FIG. 1.
[0063] FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the assembly shown in FIG. 1.
As may be seen, this view shows the top view of the single external
baffle 34, the single cowl 20 (although two numbers 20 are shown in
the figure), and the U-shaped raised shelf 33. Referring now also
to FIG. 1, this U-shaped raised shelf 33 extends upwardly relative
to the floor plate 31, such that a depression of sorts is provided,
within which the cowl 20 can fit. This fit provides for a
configuration in which the top, upwardly directed, surface of the
cowl 20 is substantially parallel to the top, upwardly directed,
surface of the U-shaped raised shelf 33, yet the top surface of the
cowl 20 is higher than the surface of the shelf 33. This is in
order to provide an aesthetic appearance of the overall vent
assembly by providing the "dual-level matching" concepts noted
above that is provided by the upwardly directed surface portion of
the base 30 tending to conform to, and blend in with, (or "match")
upwardly directed surfaces of the other tiles in the first course
of tiles (that the vent is in) and the upwardly directed surface
portion of the cowl member 20 tending to follow the profile of the
"second" course, above the first course. However, the function is
to provide a vent feature, which could not otherwise be provided
with a conventional flat tile.
[0064] It may be seen that the cowl 20 of FIG. 6 (and FIG. 1) shows
a simulated "split line" down through the center of the cowl. This
is to simulate two tile elements. It should be understood that that
line could be removed (such as is the case with the next embodiment
shown in FIG. 8), or other line, contour, or relief configurations
could be used. It should also be noted that other texturing
configurations could be used as well.
[0065] FIG. 7 is a lower plan view of the vent assembly 10
according to one aspect of the present invention. As may be seen,
the cowl 20 is visible through the two vent holes 32 (a.k.a.
cavities), which are provided in the base 30 of the vent assembly
10.
[0066] Although this view shown in FIG. 7 is from the underneath of
the assembled vent assembly 10, it is helpful in viewing and
understanding certain features that affect airflow and water
drainage on the other side of the base 30. As the base 30 is molded
out of relatively thin planar plastic through a molding process
(including but not limited to thermoforming, vacuum forming,
injection molding, etc.), it may be understood that due to the
relatively consistent wall thickness, that which is seen on one
side of the blow molded material can give a good idea of the
appearance of the other side of the blow molded material. For
example, a depression in one side would correspond to a protrusion
on the other side. This is particularly helpful in explaining the
shape of the external baffle 34 and its cooperating first and
second internal baffles 35, 36.
[0067] As noted elsewhere in this application, when the flat vent
assembly 10 is assembled and is in its upright position as shown in
FIG. 1, the external baffle is positioned outside of the cowl 20.
However, the first and second external baffles 35, 36,
respectively, are positioned underneath the cowl 20.
[0068] When wind, combined with rainwater, blows "up" the roof, it
will tend to blow along a serpentine path, first over the external
baffle 34, and then immediately dip down and under the leading edge
of the cowl 20. At this point, the air will then have to go up over
the first internal baffle 35, down into a trough, which is in
between baffles 35, and 36, and then up over the second internal
baffle 36. Air crossing the crest of the second internal baffle 36
is then free to continue under the cowl 20 and out downwardly
through the two vent cavities (or cavity) 32 in the floor plate
31.
[0069] It may be understood that sloping ramps 37 exist on the
opposing ends of the first and second internal baffles. These
sloping ramps 37 provide for escaping waterflow from water that may
be deposited when crossing the external baffle 34 or the first
internal baffle 35.
[0070] FIG. 8 is a pictorial view of a flat roof vent assembly 110.
As may be seen, this second embodiment does not include an external
baffle such as 34 in the previous embodiment. Instead, the cowl 120
extends all the way towards its foot end so that it is
substantially flush with the foot end of the base 130. This
provides an aesthetically pleasing image. The cowl 120 can be
attached to the base in the same manner as in the previous
embodiment.
[0071] FIG. 9 is an exploded view of that shown in FIG. 8, showing
some components thereof, namely the cowl 120 and the base 130. 134
is a large internal baffle, 135 is a first small internal baffle,
and 136 is a second small internal baffle. As may be seen in this
case, all three of the baffles are covered by the cowl. However,
the relative shapes of the three baffles 134, 135, and 136 are
similar to those of the previously discussed baffles 34, 35, and
36.
[0072] FIG. 10 is a pictorial view of a third embodiment of a flat
roof vent assembly 210. This assembly 210 includes a cowl 220 and a
base 230. The assembly 210 also includes a cowl retention member
not shown in this figure but illustrated later as 240 in FIG.
13.
[0073] The base 230 includes a floor plate 231 (which defines a
lower major planar portion), a raised shelf 233 (which defines an
upper major planar portion), and a front external baffle 234. The
base also includes nailing locations 239 to receive nails for
fastening the base to a supporting roof structure.
[0074] The cowl 220 includes downwardly oriented standoff feet 225
which bias on the top surface of the floor plate 231.
[0075] FIG. 11 is an isolated pictorial view of the base 230 of
FIG. 10. It may be seen that there is an upturned peripheral wall
236 extending around the "quasi-pentagon" vent opening 232, which
is defined by the base. The upturned wall 232 is configured to
reduce the opportunity for water to pass therethrough; instead the
water is preferably diverted down the slope and out of the
vent.
[0076] Also shown in FIG. 11 is the location where a location tab
is mounted on the underside of the base at location 238. The
location tab itself cannot be seen in this view, but due to the
thin wall of the base the mounting depression for the location tab
shows through when the base is viewed from the tap. The portion of
the tab that extends sidewardly is shown in dotted line. The
function of this tab is similar to that discussed later in
connection with location tab 537 in FIG. 20. However, the generally
planar tab has its primary planar surfaces positioned in planes
relatively parallel to the generally planar floor plate 231.
[0077] FIG. 12 is an isolated view of the cowl 220 of FIG. 10,
except the cowl has been "flipped over" 180 degrees to show its
underside. The cowl 220 includes two types of elongate members,
which extend downwardly in a common orientation. The first type of
elongate members are "standoff feet" 225, and the second type are
"engaging tabs" 226, which have holes 226H proximate their free
tips. In the embodiment shown there are six (6) of the standoff
feet 225, and six (6) of the engaging tabs 226, although other
numbers could be used.
[0078] FIG. 13 is a bottom plan view of a cowl retention member
240, as the member 240 would be viewed if the vent assembly were
viewed from the underneath when assembled. The cowl retention
member 240 is in one embodiment a single one piece molded design
although other designs are contemplated. The cowl retention member
240 includes a continuous peripheral wall 241, as seen to be shaped
somewhat like a pentagon (described herein as a "quasi-pentagon"),
and in any case shaped corresponding to the vent opening 232 in the
base 230 of the flat roof vent assembly 210. Positioned about the
wall 241 is a plurality (six are shown in this embodiment) of cowl
engaging portions 242, which are configured to engage the six
corresponding tabs 226 of the cowl 220. Referring now also to FIG.
15, this peripheral wall 241 could be thought of as having an
"L"-shaped transverse cross section comprised of a first wall
241-A, which fits within the vent opening, and a second, "flange"
wall 241-B, which when installed fits in planar contact with the
underside of the floor plate 231 of the base, proximate the vent
opening. The cowl-retaining member 240 also includes a plurality of
ribs 247 which provide structural integrity to the member 240.
[0079] FIG. 14 is an isolated view of that shown in the dotted line
circle of FIG. 13, with the addition of a tab 266 shown in dotted
line extending up into the plane of the paper. The figure shows an
exemplary cowl engaging portion 242 of the cowl retention member
240, particularly showing the manner in which a tab 226 (shown in
transverse cross section in dotted line) engages the barb 245
defined by the cowl retention member 240, and is contained on its
sides by loop 246. This engagement is done by engagement between
the barb 245 and a hole 226H in the end of the tab 226, shown in
FIG. 12. As may be seen, the loop 246 may include needed small
(three are shown) locating stubs (not numbered), which locate the
position of the tab 226 in its desired place. It may be understood
that as the tab is pressed into place (it would be moved towards
the viewer during the insertion process), the barb 245, essentially
being a hump of plastic, "snaps" into place in the hole 226H in the
end of the tab 266, thus interlocking the cowl retention member 240
relative to the cowl. As discussed elsewhere, the cowl retention
member 240 and the cowl 220 combine to capture the base 230
therebetween.
[0080] This engagement is done by engagement between the barb 245
and a hole 226H in the end of the tab 226, shown in FIG. 12. As may
be seen, the loop 246 may include, if needed, small (three are
shown) locating stubs (not numbered) which locate the position of
the tab 226 in its desired place. It may be understood that the tab
is pressed into place and the barb 245 "snaps" into place in the
hole 226H in the end of the tab 266, thus interlocking the cowl
retention member 240 relative to the cowl. As discussed elsewhere,
the cowl retention member 240 and the cowl 220 combine to capture
the base 230 therebetween.
[0081] FIG. 15 is an isolated view illustrating the manner in which
the peripheral wall 241 (of the cowl retaining member 240) fits
within the opening 232 of the base 230. The orientation shown is
with the base directed upwardly, with the view from the side. The
peripheral wall 241 could be thought of as having an "L"-shaped
transverse cross section comprised of a first wall 241-A, which
fits within the vent opening, and a second, "flange" wall 241-B,
which when installed fits in planar contact with the underside of
the floor plate 231 of the base, proximate the vent opening. This
allows the peripheral wall 241 (of the cowl retaining member 240)
to fit within the opening 232 of the base 230 in a "nesting manner.
The nesting is shown in FIG. 20.
[0082] The Two Humped Vent (FIGS. 16-20)
[0083] FIG. 16 is a pictorial view of a two-humped vent assembly
510 according to the present invention. The two-humped vent
assembly 510 includes a cowl 520 and a base 530. As may be seen,
the base 530 includes multiple nail hole locations 539, and also
includes two standoff nodules 538, which extend downwardly to
provide support of the base 530 atop the battens or other
supporting roof structure or members that support the tiles.
[0084] FIG. 17 is another view of the vent assembly of FIG. 16,
except that the view is from a lower perspective to show the manner
in which the cowl 520 extends upwardly relative to the base 530.
This view also shows the use of a "segmented" front external baffle
configuration, in which the front baffling function is provided by
baffle segments 535 which are located in the upwardly curved or
"valley" sections 536 of the base 530.
[0085] FIG. 18 is an isolated view of a portion of the cowl 520,
illustrating the manner in which the downwardly-directed standoff
feet 525 (a.k.a. support feet) contact the floor plate 531 of the
base 530.
[0086] FIG. 19 is an isolated view of a portion of the underside of
the base 530, illustrating a standoff nodule 538, which contacts
the roofing structure supporting the tiles and vents.
[0087] FIG. 20 is a pictorial view, viewed from the underside,
illustrating the interaction between a two-humped vent assembly 510
(to the viewer's left) and a typical similarly shaped tile "T" (to
the viewer's right). Particularly this shows the use of a location
tab 537, which extends from the base 530. This location tab 537 is
in one embodiment plastic and riveted to the base 530. This
location tab 537 and the base of the two-humped vent assembly 510
combine to capture the typical similarly shaped tile to assist in
the relative positioning of the two and to keep the vent attached
to the roof.
[0088] The Three Humped Vent (Villa) (FIG. 21)
[0089] FIG. 21 is a pictorial view of a three-hump vent assembly
710, which includes a cowl 720 and a base 730. The base includes a
front external baffle 731 which as may be seen has a substantially
nominal height, and conforms to the curved and flat portions 735,
736, respectively, of the lower major upwardly-directed surface of
the base 730.
[0090] It should be understood that the front external baffle could
also be configured so as to have a substantially straight upper
edge, such that the thickness of the baffle would vary depending on
from where the wall was extending. For example, the wall would be
at its thickest when extending upwardly from the flat segments
736.
[0091] The Cowl Fastening System
[0092] As noted above, under one embodiment of the invention, the
cowl fastening system described below that includes a cowl
retention member 240, as shown in FIG. 13.
[0093] As noted above, referring generally to FIGS. 10-15, the cowl
220 includes two types of elongate members, which extend downwardly
in a common orientation. The first type of elongate members are
"standoff feet" 225, and the second type are "engaging tabs" 226.
In the embodiment shown there are six (6) of the standoff feet 225,
and six (6) of the engaging tabs 226, although other numbers could
be used.
[0094] When the cowl retention member 240 is installed, the
standoff feet 225 have their bottom tips contacting and biasing
atop (but not engaging) the floor surface 231 (a.k.a. the lower
major surface) of the base 230, at locations spaced around the
opening in the base. The engaging tabs 226 extend down and through
the vent opening 232 of the base, and engage corresponding
engagement portions 242 of the cowl retention member 240.
[0095] The cowl retention member 240 has an outer perimeter, which
has a quasi-pentagon shape that allows the cowl retention member
240 to fit into, and "nest" within the pentagon-shaped opening of
the base. The engaging tabs 226 of the cowl snap-fit into
engagement portions 242 of the cowl retention member 240, such that
the cowl retention member 240 and the feet 225 of the base 230
capture the base therebetween. The engaging tabs do not touch the
base, only the cowl retention member 240. The cowl retention member
also includes ribs 247 which span the opening; these ribs are for
are these for structural integrity.
[0096] Alternatives and Accessories
[0097] Although the above configurations contemplate the use of a
cowl retention member, other configurations may be used to fasten
the cowl to the base without departing from the spirit and scope of
the present invention. For example, L-shaped bracket-type hardware
elements (not shown) may be attached to the base and the cowl, and
flexible members may be used to connect the hardware together and
to provide a flexible but spaced-apart connection between the cowl
and the base. In such a configuration no cowl retention member
would be used.
[0098] The vent assemblies described above can also be used in
conjunction with a flat screen provided underneath the vent hole in
the base of the vent assembly. A "cloaking device" (not shown)
could also be used which acts like a flashing and screen.
Essentially, the cloaking device includes a base defining an
opening, flashing extending about the periphery of the opening, and
a screen at the top of the flashing. The flashing component, which
operates similar to that currently in the art, sheds water away
from the hole and the screen prevents bugs and rodents from
crawling into the attic space.
[0099] The cloaking device is nailed to the roof deck over the hole
to allow the air into the attic space. The underlayment will
overlap the top of the base of the cloaking device so water runs
off the underlayment onto the cloaking device, is stopped by the
raised wall and runs off the sides back onto the underlayment.
[0100] It may be noted that the "labyrinth" feature noted elsewhere
in this application may be used in combination with the "dual-level
matching" feature, or either feature may be used alone.
[0101] It should be understood that although certain combinations
of internal and external baffles have been shown for purposes of
indication, it should be understood that there are other
alternative configurations that still manage to be covered by the
present invention. For example, instead of using two small internal
baffles, three or one internal baffles could be used; in fact, any
reasonable number of internal baffles could be used within
engineering limitations. At the same time, a large external baffle
could be used as shown in the first embodiment, with the large
external baffle having various height possibilities, depending on
the severity of the weather of the application. Furthermore, the
embodiments shown above discuss baffles with a vertical
orientation. It should be noted that this is just one embodiment
and in fact a horizontal labyrinth is also envisioned for the same
purpose. Furthermore it could also be said that air passes
"through" the labyrinth as opposed to "over" the labyrinth in such
situations.
[0102] The Dual-Level Matching Concept
[0103] FIG. 22 is an illustrative view illustrating the dual-level
matching concept, as provided by a flat vent assembly configuration
10 (having a cowl 20 and base 30) mounted atop a roof supporting
surface SS (which could be provided by battens, a flat surface, or
otherwise as known in the art). The flat vent assembly 10 is
mounted in one course of tiles, which is above a course of tiles
including tile A, and below a course of tile including tile B. As
may be understood, the upper surface 20S of the cowl 20 is
substantially in the same plane P as is the upper surface of the
flat tile B, while the upper major surface 30S of the base 30 of
the flat vent assembly 10 is aligned with the upper surfaces of
other tiles in its same course.
[0104] It may also be understood that this same type of dual level
matching applies to the other vent configurations. Although having
a curved upper surface, the upper surface of the cowls of the
assemblies 510, 710, likewise tend to blend in with, match, and
simulate the upper, curved, surfaces of the tiles in the next
course above, while the curved upper major surfaces of the bases of
these assemblies blend in with, match, and simulate the tiles in
their same course.
[0105] Conclusion
[0106] Many modifications and other embodiments of the inventions
set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to
which these inventions pertain having the benefit of the teachings
presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated
drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the inventions are
not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that
modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included
within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms
are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive
sense only and not for purposes of limitation.
* * * * *