U.S. patent application number 13/148149 was filed with the patent office on 2011-12-01 for plastic fenestration product.
Invention is credited to John E. Nemazi, G. Daniel Templeton.
Application Number | 20110289870 13/148149 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42542317 |
Filed Date | 2011-12-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110289870 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Nemazi; John E. ; et
al. |
December 1, 2011 |
PLASTIC FENESTRATION PRODUCT
Abstract
A fenestration product such as a skylight or a window assembly
is provided having a frame with a peripheral wall with a light
transmitting central region and a plastic dome formed of a light
transmitting material mounted to the frame. The plastic dome has a
central region which transmits light, a downwardly extending
peripheral wall extending about and mounted to the peripheral
frame, and an outwardly extending flashing flange for mounting the
assembly to a building structure. Various embodiments of the part
illustrated include a skylight assembly having a frame formed of a
plastic layer formed into an inverted `U` shape cross-section
forming an annular channel filled with insulating foam. A sealed,
vertically mounted window unit is also disclosed. Other embodiments
have an insulating layer of transparent plastic material spaced
from the dome forming an enclosed, gas filled insulating region.
Methods of forming and installing a fenestration assembly are also
described.
Inventors: |
Nemazi; John E.; (Bloomfield
Hills, MI) ; Templeton; G. Daniel; (Ft. Wayne,
IN) |
Family ID: |
42542317 |
Appl. No.: |
13/148149 |
Filed: |
February 5, 2009 |
PCT Filed: |
February 5, 2009 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US09/33183 |
371 Date: |
August 5, 2011 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
52/200 ;
454/284 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04D 13/0315 20130101;
E06B 1/6046 20130101; E04C 1/42 20130101; E04D 2013/0345
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
52/200 ;
454/284 |
International
Class: |
E04D 13/03 20060101
E04D013/03; F24F 7/00 20060101 F24F007/00 |
Claims
1. A fenestration product assembly comprising: a frame having a
first vertically extending peripheral wall portion defining a
central opening, a second vertically extending peripheral wall
portion spaced outboard from the first wall portion and an upper
region therebetween forming an integral trough for collecting
condensate; and a dome formed of a first plastic material which
transmits visible light, the dome mounted to the frame and having a
central panel portion overlying the frame central opening, a
vertically extending peripheral dome wall having a lower edge which
extends about the frame second peripheral wall, and an outwardly
extending flashing flange extending outward of the dome wall lower
edge, the flashing flange being permanently securable about its
periphery to a building structure for mounting the assembly.
2. The fenestration product assembly of claim 1 wherein the frame
comprises a unitary plastic ring portion.
3. The fenestration product assembly of claim 2 wherein the frame
forms has an inverted U-shaped cross section.
4. The fenestration product assembly of claim 3 wherein the frame
further comprises a thermal insulation material which substantially
fills the inverted U-shaped cross section.
5. (canceled)
6. The fenestration product assembly of claim 3 wherein the frame
further comprises a flashing flange portion extending outward from
the wall portion and at least partially underlying the flashing
flange of the dome.
7. The fenestration product assembly of claim 1 further comprising
an insulating layer formed of a plastic material which is
transparent to visible light, the insulating layer mounted to at
least one of the frame and the dome, and having a central panel
portion overlying the frame central opening and a peripheral edge
which is mounted to at least one of the frame and the dome to
define an enclosed cavity between the insulating layer and the
dome.
8. The fenestration product assembly of claim 7 further comprising
a second insulating layer formed of a plastic material which is
transparent to visible light, the second insulating layer mounted
between the insulating layer and the dome, and having a central
panel portion overlying the frame central opening and a peripheral
edge which is mounted to at least one of the frame peripheral wall,
the insulating layer and the dome, thereby subdividing the enclosed
cavity between the insulating layer and the dome.
9.-27. (canceled)
28. A fenestration product assembly comprising: a dome formed of a
first plastic, which transmits a portion of the visible light
spectrum, the dome having a central panel, a peripheral side, and a
peripheral flange attached to at least a portion of the side; an
interior layer formed of a second plastic, the interior layer
having a first peripheral edge, a peripheral flange, and a second
peripheral edge connected to the dome, forming a first cavity
between the interior layer and the dome, the first cavity capable
of receiving air from the atmosphere, the interior layer having a
plurality of apertures capable of transporting air from the first
cavity; and a third layer formed of a third plastic, the third
layer having a peripheral edge connected to at least one of the
dome and the interior layer, the third layer and the interior layer
forming a second cavity, the third layer having a second plurality
of apertures capable of transporting air from the second cavity to
a building interior space.
29. The fenestration product assembly of claim 28, wherein the
second cavity includes an air filter.
30. The fenestration product assembly of claim 29, wherein the air
filter includes a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA)
filter.
31. The fenestration product assembly of claim 29, wherein the
third layer includes an access door.
32. The fenestration product assembly of claim 31, wherein the
third layer includes an airflow controller.
33. The fenestration product assembly of claim 28, wherein an angle
between the dome's peripheral side and the roof ranges from 15
degrees to 45 degrees.
34. (canceled)
35. A fenestration product assembly comprising: a frame having an
upward extending peripheral wall portion defining an aperture; a
dome formed of a plastic material which transmits at least a
portion of visible spectrum light, the dome being mounted to the
frame and having a exterior side away from the frame and having a
downwardly extending peripheral edge which extends about the
peripheral wall, and an outwardly extending flashing flange; and a
decorative layer connected to the exterior side of the dome.
36. The fenestration product of claim 35, wherein the decorative
layer includes a shingle graphic.
37. The fenestration product of claim 36, wherein the shingle
graphic comprises dots having a density in the range from 10 to 600
dots per inch.
38. The fenestration product of claim 36, wherein the shingle
graphic admits a quantity of visible spectrum light to the aperture
ranging from 20% to 90% of the visible spectrum light impinging
upon the decorative layer.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S.
application Ser. No. 11/832,417 filed Aug. 1, 2007, which is
incorporated by referenced herein.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] This invention relates to fenestration products composed
primarily of plastic.
[0004] 2. Background Art
[0005] Plastic is used in a variety of fenestration products such
as skylights and windows in buildings as an alternative to a glass
panel. Plastic and glass fenestration panels each have their
respective advantages and disadvantages. Glass is relatively
inexpensive, has good optical properties, is scratch resistant and
stable in a variety of harsh environments. Glass, however, is
relatively heavy, susceptible to catastrophic failure and can be
difficult to handle and fabricate. There is a wide a variety of
plastics available for use in fenestration products. Some are low
cost, tough, readily formable and environmentally stable. Many
plastics, however, are susceptible to scratching, lose their
physical properties with age or exposure to environmental factors,
and can be relatively expensive.
[0006] The use of plastic and fenestration products, although a
very small portion of the market compared to glass, is still quite
significant. Plastic panels are used in doors for example,
particularly storm doors to minimize the risk of injury due to
glass fracture. Acrylic dome panels are used in both residential
and industrial building skylights, as illustrated in U.S. Pat. Nos.
3,434,257; 4,514,944, and 4,344,261. Recently, the plastic dome
skylight has been introduced having acrylic dome mounted in a
polyurethane frame molded in situ about the dome peripheral edge,
as illustrated in published U.S. patent application 2005/0178078,
illustrated in website, www.viechindustries.com/products.html and
available from Vtech Industries, Inc. and Carlisle SynTec, Inc.
[0007] The focus of the development efforts in the plastic
fenestration product area has been, how to mount the plastic panel
to the building opening in a secure leak proof manner, while
securely supporting the plastic panel on a frame or curb in a
structural manner Many of the mounting systems are comprised of
multiple component parts which require assembly and have joints
which are susceptible to water leaks. Some skylights are deck
mounted, others use raised curbs. The molded polyurethane frame of
the VTech.TM. skylight is a simple one piece molded structure which
is securely bonded to the plastic dome in a leak proof manner
resulting in a very high performance skylight. This skylight,
however, is expensive to manufacture as the tooling and production
equipment needed is costly and the raw material cost of the high
performance polyurethane utilized prevents this construction system
from being used in low price point skylight applications.
[0008] A number of issues have arisen as skylights have become more
popular in housing. The presence of a skylight on a roof interrupts
the aesthetics of the rooflines. Therefore, it would be
advantageous to design skylights that are relatively
unobtrusive.
[0009] In high-velocity wind zones, such as along hurricane-prone
costal areas, skylights are exposed to severe pressure
differentials between the exterior and interior of the house. These
pressure differentials may be either positive or negative. The
magnitude of the differentials may be sufficient to pull skylight
fasteners from the roof panel or increase the stress on the
skylight mounting flange to the point where a flange fails and
releases the skylight while the fastener remains fixed to the roof
panel.
[0010] In some new houses, the sealing systems are very effective.
As a consequence, build-up of toxic or nauseous gasses can occur.
Many of these gasses accumulate in the areas near the interior
roof. Skylights may provide extra functionality for venting these
gasses, such as skylights that open using cranking mechanisms. But
opening the skylight provides an opportunity for insects and
airborne particulates to enter the house even if a screen is
provided.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] One embodiment of the invention further includes the
fenestration product assembly including a dome formed of a first
plastic. The dome transmits a portion of the visible light
spectrum. The dome also has a central panel, a peripheral side, and
a peripheral flange attached to at least a portion of the side. An
interior layer formed of a second plastic has a first peripheral
edge, a peripheral flange, and a second peripheral edge connected
to the dome. The edges and flange form a first cavity between the
interior layer and the dome. The first cavity is capable of
receiving air from the atmosphere. The interior layer has a
plurality of apertures capable of transporting air from the first
cavity. A third layer formed of a third plastic has a peripheral
edge connected to at least one of the dome or the interior layer.
The third layer and the interior layer form a second cavity. The
third layer has a second plurality of apertures capable of
transporting air from the second cavity.
[0012] An additional embodiment of the invention further includes a
fenestration product assembly including a frame having an upward
extending peripheral wall portion defining an aperture. The
fenestration product assembly also includes a dome formed of a
plastic material which transmits at least a portion of visible
spectrum light. The dome is mounted to the frame and has an
exterior side away from the frame. The dome also has a downwardly
extending peripheral edge which extends about the peripheral wall.
The dome also has an outwardly extending flashing flange. A
decorative layer is connected to the exterior side of the dome.
[0013] A further embodiment of the invention also includes a
skylight having a light transparent panel region sized to span a
generally planar building panel opening. The skylight also includes
an integrally-formed circumferential wall extending about the light
transparent panel region and oriented relative thereto to attach
and space the light transparent region above the building panel.
The wall has a generally planar peripheral flange extending
outwardly from the wall for attaching an opening formed therein to
a portion of the building panel.
[0014] Another embodiment of the invention also includes a skylight
having a generally planar circumferential securing flange for
attaching to building panel. The flange has at least one web
portion oriented about and spaced apart from the peripheral edge of
the flange. The web portion defines, at least in part, at least one
opening sized to receive one of a plurality of spaced-apart
hook-shaped fasteners affixed to the building panel. The flange,
thereby, can move within a plane.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first skylight embodiment
of the invention;
[0016] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 2-2 of
FIG. 1;
[0017] FIG. 2a is a cross-sectional view of an alternative
embodiment of the FIG. 1 skylight;
[0018] FIG. 2b is a cross-sectional view of a second alternative
embodiment of the FIG. 1 skylight;
[0019] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional side elevation of a light pipe
alternative embodiment of the invention;
[0020] FIG. 4 is a side view of a window assembly embodiment of the
invention;
[0021] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional plan view taken along line 5-5
of FIG. 4;
[0022] FIG. 6 is an exploded cross-sectional side elevation taken
along line 6-6 of FIG. 4;
[0023] FIG. 7 is a top view of a window assembly embodiment of the
invention;
[0024] FIG. 8 is an exploded cross-sectional top view of a window
assembly embodiment as illustrated in FIG. 7;
[0025] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another skylight embodiment
of the invention;
[0026] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 10'-10'
of FIG. 9;
[0027] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another skylight embodiment
of the invention;
[0028] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 12'-12'
of FIG. 11;
[0029] FIG. 13 is a top view of a skylight embodiment of the
present invention;
[0030] FIG. 14 is a top view of a skylight according to another
embodiment of the present invention;
[0031] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along 15-15 of FIG.
14;
[0032] FIG. 16 is a fragmentary top plan view of a skylight
according to another embodiment of the invention;
[0033] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a clip for fastening a
skylight according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0034] FIG. 18 is a fragmentary cross-sectional side view taken
along 18'-18' of FIG. 16 and incorporating the clip of FIG. 17;
[0035] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of another alternative
embodiment of the invention; and
[0036] FIG. 20 is another cross-sectional view of the an additional
alternative embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S)
[0037] As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention
are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the
disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention that
may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are
not necessarily to scale; some features may be exaggerated or
minimized to show details of particular components. Therefore,
specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not
to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis
for the claims and/or as a representative basis for teaching one
skilled in the art to utilize the present invention.
[0038] Except where expressly indicated, all numerical quantities
in this description indicating the amounts of material or
conditions are understood as modified by the word "about" in
describing the broadest scope of the present invention. Practice
within the numerical limits is generally preferred.
[0039] Accordingly, a number of representative examples of the
present invention are illustrated in the drawings and described
herein. In the first example, skylight assembly 10 is illustrated
in FIGS. 1 and 2. Skylight 10 has two main components as best seen
in the FIG. 2 cross-sectional view illustrating the skylight
mounted to an opening in a building roof 12. The skylight includes
a dome member 14 and a frame member 16 which are both formed of
sheets of plastic which have been thermoformed to a three
dimensional shape using a conventional thermoforming process such
as vacuforming, twin-sheet thermoforming or pressure assisted sag
forming. Dome 14 is preferably formed of a light transparent and
plastic material such as acrylic or polycarbonate. Depending on the
application, the dome may be transparent or may be translucent. A
translucent layer having a whitish color can allow light to pass
through and act as a diffuser. Plastic dome 14 has a central panel
18 forming a dome shape, a downwardly extending peripheral wall 20
and an outwardly extending flashing flange portion 22. Dome 14 is
secured to a peripheral wall portion 24 of frame 16. Frame 16 is
also thermoformed of a plastic sheet with the peripheral outer wall
24 forming an annular ring to support dome 14. The frame 16 defines
a light transmitting central region 26 to allow light passing
through the dome 14 central panel 18 to freely enter the building
roof 12.
[0040] In the first embodiment of the invention illustrated in
skylight assembly 10, the frame 16 has a peripheral wall portion
which in cross-section forms an inverted "U" shape having an inner
wall portion 28 and upper wall 30. Extending radially outward from
outer peripheral wall 24 is a flashing flange 32 which underlies
flashing flange portion 22 of dome 14. Optionally, inner peripheral
wall 28 extends downwardly into the building slightly below the
level of the flashing flange 32 as illustrated in FIG. 2 in order
to help align the skylight with the opening formed in the roof
sheathing 34. Frame 16 may be formed of a different plastic
material than the dome 14 since transparency is not required in the
illustrated embodiment. The frame plastic material is preferably of
a material which can easily be bonded to the frame using
conventional adhesives, solvents or weldments. In the embodiment
illustrated, the cavity formed within the inverted "U" shaped
cross-section of frame 16 is filled with a foam insulation material
36.
[0041] In a typical 2'.times.4' building opening size application,
skylight 10 can be manufactured using a dome formed of acrylic
having a wall thickness prior to thermoforming of 0.60 inches to
0.236 inches or the wall thickness capable of supporting an
ultimate load needed in service or required by a regulation or an
architect. These ultimate loads may include in excess of 20, 40, or
60 pounds per square feet as tested using procedure A of ASTM E330
after stabilization according to procedure A of ASTM D618. The
frame may be formed of acrylic or a different plastic material such
as acrylic polycarbonate, terephthalate, polyoxymethylene,
polyolefin, and/or polyvinylchloride, since light transmission is
not an issue. The wall thickness of the frame need not be thick,
particularly when the frame filled with a rigid insulation foam 36.
A wall thickness of the frame can range from 0.030 to 0.236 inches.
Foamed insulation material such as polyurethane, expanded
polystyrene, or polyisocyanurate can be used having densities
between 1 pound per cubic foot and 40 pounds per cubic foot.
[0042] Preferably, the outwardly extending flashing flange 22
extends outwardly from a downwardly extending dome peripheral wall
28 at least 2'' to 9'' and more preferably, 3'' to 7'', in order to
provide an adequate overlap to bond to the water barrier 38 mounted
to the building sheathing 34 to allow adequate overlap with the
roofing material 40 to prevent water leakage into the building
opening. Flashing flange 22 also serves as a mounting flange for
attaching the skylight assembly to the building roof sheathing 34.
Preferably, corrosion resistant screws or nails are installed
through the flashing flange portion 22 into the building roof
sheathing 34. The mounting fasteners are preferably located
significantly outboard of the dome downwardly extending peripheral
wall 20 and well inboard of the outer peripheral edge of the
mounting flange, but not necessarily aligned in a row, in order to
minimize stress concentrations in the mounting flange caused by
wind load on the skylight dome 18. Ideally, holes for fasteners do
not have to be pre-drilled, that way assuring that any unused
fastener holes do not provide an entry leak path for water. Holes
for fasteners 42 may be drilled at the job site. In order to
minimize screw pull out, the screws are preferably provided with a
relatively large low profile head or be provided with an associated
washer such as a compression washer.
[0043] FIG. 2a illustrates a cross-sectional view of an alternative
embodiment of the skylight assembly. Skylight 44 is made up of
three main components; a dome 46, a frame 48 and an insulating
layer 50. Dome 46 and frame 48 are substantially similar to dome 14
and frame 16 described in reference to the embodiment invention of
FIG. 2, except that the frame 48 terminates before the region in
which fasteners are inserted. Insulating layer 50 is formed of a
light transparent plastic material. Insulated layer 50 has a
central region able to transmit visible light and an outer
peripheral flange which is mounted to one of the dome 46 or frame
48 in order to define enclosed interior space 52 interposed between
the central regions of dome 46 and insulated layer 50. Interior
space 52 is filled with a gas such as air or argon and provides a
relatively high thermal transmission resistant barrier between the
interior of the building and the building exterior. Insulated layer
50 may be bonded to the upper most portion 54 of frame 48 with an
adhesive material or weldment in order to bond the dome to the
frame as illustrated. Preferably, one of the top region of frame 54
or the outer peripheral edge 56 of insulated layer 50 is provided
with a groove 58 as illustrated for retaining a bead of adhesive or
sealing material used to bond the insulated layer 50 to the frame
48. After the insulated layer 50 installed on the frame, the dome
is attached using adhesives as described previously to form a
completed assembly.
[0044] Yet another variation of the skylight assembly is
illustrated in FIG. 2b. Skylight 62 is made up of a dome 64, a
frame 66 and two insulating layers 68 and 70. Insulating layers 68
and 70 are preferably thermoformed into a dome shape and are formed
of a light transmitting plastic material. When completely
assembled, a first enclosed space 72 is defined between the dome
and insulating layer 70 while a second adjacent enclosed space 74
is defined between insulating layers 68 and 70. These two isolated
insulating spaces further enhance the thermal characteristics of
the skylight assembly. Preferably, the frame 66 is provided with
the pair of step annular recesses 75 and 77 to align insulating
layers 68,70 within the assembly and provide a surface on which to
secure the insulating layers 68 and 70. With reference to the
insulating layers 50, 68 and 70 of skylight assembly 44 in FIG. 2a
and skylight 62 in FIG. 2b, respectively, the insulating layers 50,
68 and 70 can be made of relatively thin material since the layers
are not subject to a significant mechanical loading. Material such
as acrylic, polycarbonate, terephthlate, polyoxmethylene,
polystyrene, and/or polyvinyl chloride may be utilized for
insulating layers and the material thicknesses can be as thin as
0.030. A sealing bead 73 may optionally be attached to the frame 66
to provide a water resistant bed of sealant between the roof and
frame 66.
[0045] FIG. 3 illustrates a domed skylight 76 which is part of a
larger, tubular skylight assembly 78. Skylight 76 is made up of a
dome 80, a frame 82 and an insulating layer 84 which defines an
enclosed space 86 between the insulating layer 84 and dome 80. The
upper portion of frame 82 forms an annular trough 88 which serves
to trap condensate forming on the inner surface of insulating panel
84.
[0046] Trough 88 prevents condensate from forming on the skylight
interior and dripping into the building interior space. Trough 88
is sufficiently large so that the condensate would be collected
during periods of condensate formation and subsequently evaporated
when the humidity and/or temperature changes sufficiently to cause
the condensate to evaporate. The tubular skylight assembly 78
includes the skylight assembly 76 as well as a light pipe 90 and
light diffuser panel 92. Light diffuser panel 92 is mounted to the
ceiling of a room within the building and the light pipe 90 extends
between the diffuser and skylight assembly 76 to carry light from
the skylight dome 80 through the light reflective interior surface
of light pipe 90 into the room via the light transparent diffuser
92. Light pipe 90 can be made of a flexible conduit as illustrated
or a sheet metal duct structure.
[0047] FIGS. 4-6 illustrate a different type of fenestration
product constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present
invention, namely, a window assembly 100. Window assembly 100 is
adapted for permanent installation in a building opening such as a
window into a building basement, crawlspace, or a fixed window in a
garage, a garage door, or an entry system. Window 100 is
specifically designed to simulate a glass block window commonly
seen in building basements. Other textures may be incorporated as
desired, such as a texture simulating camed glass. As illustrated
in the FIG. 5 cross-sectional view, the window assembly 100
includes a dome 102, a frame member 104 structure and an interior
layer 106 all formed of a thermoformed plastic material which
transmits visible light. Dome 102 has a central panel portion 108,
an outer peripheral wall 110 and an outwardly extending flashing
flange 112. Frame 104 is also formed of a transparent plastic
material having an outer peripheral wall portion 114 and a
transparent central wall portion 116. The frame 104 is further
provided with an outwardly extending flashing flange 118 overlying
flashing flange 112 of the dome 102. Interior layer 106 is provided
and bonded to frame 104 thereby defining two enclosed interior
spaces between interior layer 106 and the central panel 108 of dome
102. First enclosed space 120 is interposed between interior layer
106 and frame central wall portion 116 and second enclosed region
122 interposed between transparent central wall portion 116 and the
central panel portion 108 of dome 102. All three components; dome,
frame and interior layer 102, 104 and 106 are forms of visible
light transmitting thermoplastic sheet thermoformed to the desired
shape. The panels are then joined together to form a secure
assembly. Examples of joining methods may include, but are not
limited to, ultrasonic welding, heat staking, and/or adhesives. It
is understood that joining may also include fastening the three
components 102, 104 and 106 to the building with screws, staples,
nails or similar mechanical fasteners.
[0048] In the window assembly embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 4-6,
the central panel 108 and interior layer 106 are provided with
simulated grout lines 124 molded into the panels. Preferably, the
remainder of the visible portion of panels 108 and 106 are provided
with a textured pebble-like surface simulating the appearance of
glass block. To further provide a visible barrier, the frame 104
may be formed of a translucent plastic material allowing light to
pass, but, impeding the person's view through the window.
[0049] Window assembly 100 can be manufactured in standard basement
window sizes. Windows can alternatively be designed to be mounted
from the exterior or mounted from the interior of the building
depending upon the architect's specification. The window assembly
100 can be attached to the wood framed window opening with
conventional fasteners such as screws and nails. One or more bezels
126 may likewise be utilized either on the building exterior,
building interior or both in order to further seal the joint
between the building opening and the window assembly and to enhance
the aesthetic appearance of the window.
[0050] The plastic sheets utilized to fabricate the three panels
102, 104 and 106 forming window assembly 100 may be of a variety of
materials as described previously. While the frame material can be
relatively thin, the panel facing the exterior of the building
should be sufficiently thick to provide adequate security and
provide acceptable aesthetic appearance. The plastic sheets may
also be formed of composite sheets of plastic to provide desired
enhancements. Examples of the composite sheets may include UV
and/or heat transfer resistant films sandwiched between acrylic
plastic. Another example may include an intrusion-resistant mylar
film bonded between two thin sheets of polycarbonate plastic. It
should be further appreciated that additional thin layers of
thermoformed plastic material may be utilized in fabricating window
116 placed between dome 102 and inner layer 106 to increase the
number of enclosed zones within the window to further improve the
thermal resistance of the assembly.
[0051] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, these figures illustrate an
alternative embodiment of a window assembly 130 in accordance with
the teachings of the present invention. Window assembly 130 is
adapted for permanent installation into a building opening such as
window into a basement in a concrete block construction house
member. As illustrated in the FIG. 8, an exploded top
cross-sectional view, the window assembly 130 includes a dome 132
positioned in an opening in the concrete block wall section 134.
The dome has a central panel 136, a peripheral wall 138 and a
peripheral flange 142. The window assembly 130 is shaped like a top
hat, and defines a cavity 146 into which an interior layer 148 may
be inserted. The interior layer 148 includes a central wall panel
150 and a peripheral flange 152. The interior layer 148 may be
inserted into the cavity 146 with the distal ends 140 of the flange
152 pointed toward the center panel 136 of the dome 132. It is
understood that the distal ends 140 of the flange 152 may be
directed away from the central panel 136 without exceeding the
scope of this invention. The flange 152 may vary in size based on
the number of inserts desired. Typically, the flange 152 may range
in length from 0.25 to 4.0 inches and preferably 0.5 to 2.0
inches.
[0052] As an option, a sealed insulating unit 156 may be inserted
adjacent to the interior layer 148. The sealed unit 156 may include
a first central panel 158, a second central panel 160, a peripheral
flange 162. The first central panel 158 is hermetically sealed to
flange 162 creating an enclosed air space 166. Alternatively, a gas
may be injected to space 166 to improve the thermal transmission
resistance of the sealed unit 156. An example of the gas that may
be injected is an insulator like argon. Alternatively, other
insulators may be in the sealed unit. The insulator may include a
vacuum, an aerogel, or a nanogel. The cavity 166 should be less
than 0.625 inches in thickness and preferably less than 0.5 inches
in thickness in order to prevent creation of convection cells
within the cavity. The convection cells increase heat transmission.
It is desirable that the flange 162 be less than 1.25 inch in
length so that when placed adjacent to the interior layer 148, that
they form a second air space 168 that may improve the thermal
transmission resistance of the window assembly 130. Optional
additional interior layers such as a second interior layer 170 may
be inserted into cavity 146 to further improve the thermal
transmission resistance of the window assembly 130. A coating, a
deposition or a film may be applied to at least one of the
components of the window assembly 130 including the dome 132, the
interior layer 148, the sealing unit 156, and the second interior
layer 170.
[0053] A cap 172 opposes the central panel 136 and provides closure
to the cavity 146. The cap 172 has a peripheral flange 174 which is
adjacent to the flange 142 of the dome 136. The cap 172 may also
have positioning ribs 178 to assist in centering the cap in the
opening in flange 142. The window assembly 130 including the dome
132 and the cap 172 are fastened to the concrete wall structure 134
using fasteners known in the art. An example of the fastener is a
molly anchor 180. For aesthetic purposes, an interior trim bezel
182 may be attached to the cap flange 174 using a double stick
transfer tape 184. It is understood that other means of attaching
the interior trim bezel 182 that are known in the art may be used
without exceeding the scope of the invention. Likewise, an exterior
trim bezel 186 may be attached to the exterior of the concrete
block structure 134 using a barbed insert 188. An example of the
barbed insert 188 is commonly referred to as a "Christmas Tree". It
is understood that the barbed insert 188 may have individual prongs
or be part of a more continuous ridge of barbed inserts. The window
assembly 130 may optionally be insulated by injecting a foamed
sealer 190, such as a foaming polymer like foamed polyurethane into
a gap between the dome 132 and concrete block wall section 134
before application of the bezel 186.
[0054] The invention further includes a method of forming a
fenestration product assembly. The method includes steps of
thermoforming a first sheet of plastic into a ring shape frame
having a cross-section and the general shape of an inverted "U". A
plastic dome is thermoformed from a second sheet of plastic
material which transmits visible light defining a dome having a
central region and a downwardly extended peripheral flange and a
flashing flange extending outwardly from the outer peripheral wall.
In one preferred embodiment of the method the central portion of
the ring shape frame is cut out forming a central opening through
which light can pass. The ring shaped frame and dome are then
joined in a nested manner with the dome downwardly extending
peripheral wall cooperating with the outer frame peripheral wall.
Alternatively, the flashing flange may be omitted from the dome and
provided on the ring shaped frame or flashing flanges may be
included on both the dome and the ring shape frame.
[0055] The method of forming the fenestration product further
includes the step of forming a transparent or translucent
insulating layer which is interposed between the frame and the dome
and bonded to at least one of the frame and the dome to define an
enclosed space between the insulating layer and the dome to
increase the thermal resistance value of the assembly.
Alternatively, the method may include forming a second insulating
layer interposed between the first insulating layer and the dome in
order to define two separate enclosed regions between the dome and
the two insulating layers to further increase the thermal
resistance value of the assembly. It is understood that enclosed
regions may include ventilating holes to allow relatively small
transfers of gas to relieve pressure differentials or other issues
associated with a sealed chamber exposed to temperature
extremes.
[0056] The method may further include the step of filling the "U"
shaped channel formed in the frame with the insulating material,
such as a polymer foam which is preferably cured in place to
substantially fill the "U" shaped trough defined by the frame.
[0057] FIG. 9 is perspective view of a skylight 200 embodiment of
the invention. The skylight includes a dome 202 formed of a plastic
material which transmits visible light. The dome has a central
panel 204, a peripheral side 206 and a peripheral flange 208. The
peripheral flange 208 is attached to at least a portion of the
peripheral side 206. The skylight 200 also includes an interior
layer 210 formed of a second plastic. The interior layer 210 has a
peripheral edge 212, a peripheral flange 214 and a peripheral edge
attached to the dome 216. The interior layer 210 and the dome 204
define a cavity 218. The cavity 218 is capable of receiving air
from the atmosphere. The interior layer 210 has at least one small
aperture 220 that is capable of transporting air from the cavity
218. Skylight 200 also includes a third layer 222 formed of a third
plastic. The third layer has a peripheral edge 224 connected to at
least one of dome 204 or interior layer 210. Third layer 222 and
interior layer 210 form a cavity 226. Third layer 222 has at least
one small aperture 228 capable of transporting air from cavity 226
to an interior space 230. Interior space 230 has active air
exchange with the interior of the building.
[0058] Cavity 226 may be used to provide functionality to the
skylight. A non-limiting example of such functionality is embodied
by the inclusion of an air filter 232 within the cavity 226. The
air filter 232 allows fresh air to enter the building while
excluding insects, air particulate matter and potential allergens.
A particularly effective air filter is a high-efficiency
particulate air filter (HEPA). Over time, the filter will need to
be refreshed. The third layer 222 may include an access door 234
allowing exchange of the old air filter for a new air filter. It is
contemplated that the access door may be of any conventional design
including, but not limited to, a sliding access door or a hinged
access door.
[0059] Skylight 200 may also include an air flow controller 236 on
the third layer 222 that may partially block the apertures 228 in
order to restrict the amount of fresh air entering the room. This
is particularly useful during periods of extreme temperature. It is
understood that air flow controller 236 may block any fraction of
the incoming air ranging from completely blocked to relatively
unhindered air flow. While the air flow controller 236 is
illustrated in FIG. 10 as being positioned on the third layer 222,
it is also contemplated that air flow controller 236 may be placed
on interior layer 210. Further, air flow controller 236 may be
incorporated into the access door 234. Examples of air flow
controller 236 may include, but are not limited to, a slidable
panel having apertures similar to apertures 228 on the third layer
222. The apertures on the air flow control panel can be slid to
align with all or part of aperture 228 as well as to completely
avoid overlapping aperture 228 shutting off airflow from cavity 226
to interior space 230. Another example of an air flow controller
may be a louvered vent.
[0060] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another skylight embodiment
of the invention. FIG. 12 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view
taken along line 12-12 of FIG. 11. The skylight 250 has a frame 252
with an upward-extending peripheral wall 254 defining an opening
256. The skylight also includes a dome 258 which has an exterior
side 260. Dome 258 is formed of a plastic material which transmits
at least a portion of light of a visible spectrum. Dome 258 is
mounted to frame 252 with exterior side 260 spaced away from the
frame 252. Dome 258 has a downwardly extending peripheral edge 262
which extends about peripheral wall 254. The dome also has an
outwardly-extending flashing flange 264.
[0061] Dome 258 has a decorative layer 266 connected to the
exterior side 260. Decorative layer 26 as illustrated in FIGS. 11
and 12 includes a graphic that appears to be a shingle for a roof.
It is understood that the graphic may be of any suitable image. The
shingle graphic is illustrated as being formed by dots. The dots
have a density in the range from 10-600 dots per inch. In another
embodiment the density of dots is in the range from 100-300 dots
per inch. It is understood that the dots may be opaque,
semi-transparent, or transparent. It is further contemplated that
the graphic may be a continuous film carrying an image that has a
portion that is, at least, partially transparent. It should be
further understood that the graphic may use more than one layer to
convey the graphic. Certain embodiments of the graphic mimic the
surrounding roof surface so as to make the skylight less intrusive
to the aesthetic of the roof.
[0062] The graphic can also be used to control the quantity of
visible spectrum light passing from the outside to the inside of
the skylight. The quantity of visible light passing through may
range from 20%-90% of the light impinging upon decorative layer
266.
[0063] FIGS. 13-18 illustrate embodiments of connecting the
skylight to the building roof. In FIG. 13, the skylight 300
includes a number of return flanges 302 positioned at the
peripheral edge 304 of skylight 300. It is not desirable to have
rigid contact with a fixed fastener because the stress will
build-up as the material expands or contracts. Return flange 302
allows the plastic to expand and contract as the ambient
temperature fluctuates when return flange 302 is slidably connected
to the roof. As is illustrated in FIG. 13, the return flanges need
not be continuous. In FIG. 13, the expansion of the plastic will
radiate from the center point 306. To minimize the stress at the
corners, the return flange is angled so that axis of slidable
connection of a fixed roof fastener and return flange 302 can be
substantially parallel to the axis of expansion or contraction of
the skylight 300.
[0064] In FIG. 14, the expansion and contraction of the plastic is
not symmetrical. However, a skylight 310 embodiment in FIG. 14 has
a return flange 312 shaped like a "J". The return flange interacts
with a J-shaped clip 314 as illustrated in FIG. 15. It is
advantageous that neither of the J shapes 312 or 314 bottom-out on
the complementary J shape during maximum expansion or contraction
of the skylight 310. To provide improved holding, a resilient
member 316 may be placed at the bottom of the J in either J shape
312 or 314. resilient member 316 may include a foam, a gel, or an
elastomeric material. The material may have a Shore durometer
ranging from Shore OO 40 to Shore A 80. In another embodiment, the
durometer may range from Shore A 25 to A 70. The Shore durometer is
measured using ASTM D2240.
[0065] A return 318 for the clip 314 is positioned above at least a
portion of the peripheral flange 320. The return 312 of the
peripheral flange 320 defines a channel 322 which is capable of
mating with the return 318 for the clip 314.
[0066] In another embodiment, a skylight 340 has a generally planar
circumferential securing flange 342 for attaching to a building
panel. Flange 342 has at least one web portion 344 oriented about
and spaced apart from a peripheral edge of flange 346. The web
portion defines at least in part an opening 348 sized to receive a
hook-shaped fastener 350 as illustrated in FIGS. 17-18. The
hook-shaped fastener 350 may also include a foam band 352 which
functions as a resilient member in certain embodiments. It is
understood that other resilient members may be used with clip
350.
[0067] The generally planar circumferential securing flange 342 may
be integrated with a visible light transparent plastic panel 354.
The visible light transparent plastic panel 354 is generally
non-planar relative to the securing flange 342.
[0068] In FIGS. 19 and 20, embodiments are illustrated with
relatively low-profile skylights. Low-profile skylights minimize
the aesthetic obtrusiveness of the skylight on the roof as well as
minimize the vacuum-force trying to pull the skylight out of the
roof during high wind velocity events. Further, a low-profile
skylight minimizes the cross-section that may be impacted by a
debris missile during high wind velocity events. Low profile dome
embodiments bearing relatively small slopes of peripheral walls may
deflect debris missiles more readily. The force of an impact may be
broken into parallel and perpendicular vectors, thereby reducing
the missile impact force transverse to the peripheral wall. The
low-profile skylight, such as a skylight 370 embodiment in FIG. 19,
may have a maximum height above the roof surface ranging from 1-8
inches. In another embodiment, low-profile skylight 370 may have a
maximum height ranging from 1.5 inches to 6 inches above the
roof.
[0069] In a skylight 380 embodiment illustrated in FIG. 20,
skylight 380 may include two or more layers beneath a dome 382. A
central layer 384 may rest on a frame 386 which mates with the
outer dome 382. It is understood that the central layer 384 may be
bonded to either the outer dome 382 or the frame 386. Further, the
central panel may be free-standing and separable from the outer
dome 382 and/or the frame 386.
[0070] An additional functional layer 388 may be positioned
adjacent to or resting upon the frame 386. The functional layer 388
may also be bonded or otherwise connected to the frame 386 or the
central panel 384. Frame 386 may have molded into it a condensation
catch 390.
[0071] The angle of frame 386 may be sloped so as to maximize the
amount of captured light that is directed to the interior. The dome
382 has an upward standing portion 392 which, when combined with
the height dome above the roof, defines a ratio of the area of the
light-transmitting panel region 394 relative to the interior
opening size 396. For example, when a skylight interior dimension
396 is approximately 16 inch then the angle of the dome, theta 398
may range from 15.degree. to 45.degree. relative to an axis
perpendicular to the roof, so that the visible light transmitting
panel region 394 is equal to or greater than the interior dimension
396. In another embodiment, the angle may range from 20.degree. to
35.degree..
[0072] In another example, when the profile height is one inch, and
the theta 398 is 20.degree., the ratio of the light transmitting
panel dimension 394 to the interior dimension 396 is 2. In another
example, when the profile height is 8 and the angle theta 398 is
35.degree., the ratio of the visible light panel dimension 394 to
the interior dimension 396 is 1.7. In other embodiments, the range
of the visible light panel dimension 394 to the interior dimension
396 ranges from 1.5 to 1.95. In another embodiment, the range of
the visible light panel dimension 394 divided by the interior
dimension 396 ranges from 1.8 to 1.9.
[0073] While embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and
described, it is not intended that these embodiments illustrate and
describe all possible forms of the invention. Rather, the words
used in the specification are words of description rather than
limitation, and it is understood that various changes may be made
without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
* * * * *
References