U.S. patent application number 16/214295 was filed with the patent office on 2019-07-11 for ridge vent.
The applicant listed for this patent is Owens Corning Intellectual Capital, LLC. Invention is credited to Mark Bui Breneman, John Paul Devlin, Lawrence Jerome Grubka, Kurt Michael Maw, James Steven Pelletier, Brian Robert Ray, David Swett, Geoffrey Howard Wilson.
Application Number | 20190212021 16/214295 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42125428 |
Filed Date | 2019-07-11 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190212021 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Grubka; Lawrence Jerome ; et
al. |
July 11, 2019 |
RIDGE VENT
Abstract
Ridge vents configured to cover an open ridge of a roof and
allow a flow of air to exit from the open ridge through the ridge
vents are provided. The ridge vents include a center portion having
a length and a plurality of grooves. Left and right portions are
connected to the center portion. The center portion is configured
to flex along it's length, thereby forming a ridge vent angle
between the left and right portions. The formed ridge vent angle is
configured to correspond with a slope between roof decks defining
the open ridge.
Inventors: |
Grubka; Lawrence Jerome;
(Westerville, OH) ; Ray; Brian Robert;
(Whitehouse, OH) ; Wilson; Geoffrey Howard;
(Ottawa Hills, OH) ; Devlin; John Paul;
(Tewksbury, MA) ; Swett; David; (Waltham, MA)
; Breneman; Mark Bui; (Boston, MA) ; Pelletier;
James Steven; (North Grafton, MA) ; Maw; Kurt
Michael; (Salem, MA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Owens Corning Intellectual Capital, LLC |
Toledo |
OH |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
42125428 |
Appl. No.: |
16/214295 |
Filed: |
December 10, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12393261 |
Feb 26, 2009 |
10151500 |
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16214295 |
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29327214 |
Oct 31, 2008 |
D628718 |
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12393261 |
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29332162 |
Feb 10, 2009 |
D615218 |
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29327214 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H02M 7/003 20130101;
H01G 4/14 20130101; Y10T 29/53 20150115; H01G 4/32 20130101; E04D
13/174 20130101; H01G 4/28 20130101; F24F 7/02 20130101; H05K
7/1432 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F24F 7/02 20060101
F24F007/02; H01G 4/14 20060101 H01G004/14; H05K 7/14 20060101
H05K007/14; H02M 7/00 20060101 H02M007/00; E04D 13/17 20060101
E04D013/17; H01G 4/32 20060101 H01G004/32; H01G 4/28 20060101
H01G004/28 |
Claims
1-24. (canceled)
25. A ridge vent configured to cover an open ridge of a roof and
allow a flow of air to exit from the open ridge through the ridge
vent, the ridge vent comprising: a center portion having a length;
a left portion connected to the center portion, wherein the left
portion has a flat top surface with a plurality of louvers
extending through the flat top surface of the left portion; a right
portion connected to the center portion, wherein the right portion
has a flat top surface with a plurality of louvers extending
through the flat top surface of the right portion; wherein the
center portion is configured to flex along a length of the center
portion, thereby forming a ridge vent angle between the left and
right portions; and wherein the formed ridge vent angle is
configured to correspond with a slope between roof decks defining
the open ridge.
26. The ridge vent according to claim 25, wherein the ridge vent
includes grooves that extend in a direction parallel to the length
of the center portion.
27. The ridge vent according to claim 25, wherein the left portion
has a left edge and the right portion has a right edge, wherein the
left edge has a left wing and the right edge has a right wing, and
wherein the left and right wings are configured to assist in the
flow of air through the louvers of the ridge vent.
28. The ridge vent according to claim 27, wherein the left wing
extends beyond the left edge and the right wing extends beyond the
right edge.
29. The ridge vent according to claim 27, wherein the ridge vent
has a length and the left and right wings extend the length of the
ridge vent.
30. The ridge vent according to claim 27, wherein the left wing
forms an angle of approximately 45.degree. with the flat top
surface of the left portion and the right wing forms an angle of
approximately 45.degree. with the flat top surface of the right
portion.
31. The ridge vent according to claim 27, wherein the left and
right wings have a length of approximately 3/8 inches wide.
32. The ridge vent according to claim 27, wherein the left wing
forms an area of lower pressure over the plurality of louvers of
the left portion and the right wing forms an area of lower pressure
over the plurality of louvers of the right portion.
33. The ridge vent according to claim 25, wherein the left and
right portions include a plurality of nailing bosses, wherein as
the ridge vent is installed over roof decks, each of the plurality
of nailing bosses extends from a top surface of the ridge vent to
the top surface of the roof decks and wherein the nailing bosses
are configured to allow a fastener to be inserted into the nailing
bosses and held in the nailing bosses after insertion, thereby
allowing the installer to position the ridge vent on the roof prior
to securing the ridge vent to the roof decks.
34. The ridge vent according to claim 33, wherein the plurality of
nailing bosses include a plurality of first nailing bosses
positioned adjacent to each end of the ridge vent and a plurality
of second nailing bosses positioned between the first nailing
bosses.
35. The ridge vent according to claim 33, wherein each of the
second nailing bosses includes a cylindrical portion supported by a
nailing baffle.
36. The ridge vent according to claim 25, wherein the plurality of
louvers of each of the left and right portions include two rows of
louvers.
37. A ridge vent configured to cover an open ridge of a roof and
allow a flow of air to exit from the open ridge through the ridge
vent, the ridge vent comprising: a center portion having opposing
ends, each of the opposing ends having a plurality of projections,
the plurality of projections each having a plurality of legs that
have a cross-sectional shape in the form of a "V", wherein the
plurality of legs form sealing structures; left portion connected
to the center portion, wherein the left portion has a flat top
surface with a plurality of louvers extending through the flat top
surface of the left portion; a right portion connected to the
center portion, wherein the right portion has a flat top surface
with a plurality of louvers extending through the flat top surface
of the right portion; wherein the plurality of legs of the
plurality of projections are configured to nest against each other
as the center portion of the ridge vent is flexed, thereby forming
sealing structures at the end of the center portion of the ridge
vent.
38. The ridge vent according to claim 37, wherein the plurality of
projections are arranged in an outer row and an inner row.
39. The ridge vent according to claim 38, wherein the outer row has
more projections than the inner row.
40. The ridge vent according to claim 37, wherein the plurality of
legs each has a same length.
41. The ridge vent according to claim 40, wherein each of the legs
has a length of approximately 3/8 inches.
42. The ridge vent according to claim 37, wherein the plurality of
louvers of each of the left and right portions include two rows of
louvers.
43. A method for installing ridge vents over an open ridge of a
roof to allow a flow of air to exit from the open ridge through the
ridge vents, the method comprising the steps of: providing a ridge
vent, the ridge vent having a center portion, a left portion
connected to the center portion, and a right portion connected to
the center portion, wherein the left portion has a flat top surface
with a plurality of louvers extending through the flat top surface
of the left portion, wherein the right portion has a flat top
surface with a plurality of louvers extending through the flat top
surface of the right portion; flexing the ridge vent onto the open
ridge of the roof; fastening the flexed ridge vent to the roof; and
covering the ridge vent with ridge shingles.
44. The method according to claim 43, wherein the ridge vent
includes a plurality of attachment fixtures and attachment
receptacles, wherein the attachment fixtures of the subsequent
flexed ridge vents are connected to the attachment receptacles of
the installed ridge vents.
45. The method according to claim 43, wherein the attachment
fixtures are pins and the attachment receptacles are apertures.
46. The method according to claim 43, wherein the left and right
portions of the ridge vent include a plurality of nailing bosses,
wherein as a flexed ridge vent is installed over roof decks, each
of the plurality of nailing bosses extend from a top surface of the
ridge vent to the top surface of the roof decks.
47. The method according to claim 43, wherein the left portion of
the ridge vent has a left edge and the right portion of the ridge
vent has a right edge, wherein a left wing is connected to the left
edge and a right wing is connected to the right edge.
48. The method according to claim 43, wherein the plurality of
louvers of each of the left and right portions of the ridge vent
include two rows of louvers.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Design
Application No. 29/327,214, filed Oct. 31, 2008, and Ser. No.
29/332,162, filed Feb. 10, 2009, the disclosures of which are
incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Buildings, such as for example residential buildings, may be
covered by a sloped roof. The interior portion of the building
located directly below the sloped roof can form a space called an
attic. If unventilated, condensation can form on the interior
surfaces within the attic. The condensation can cause damage to
various building components within the attic, including, but not
limited to the insulation, as well as potentially causing damage to
the building structure of the attic. Accordingly, it is known to
ventilate attics thereby helping to prevent the formation of
condensation. One example of a method of ventilating an attic
includes the positioning of ridge vents at the roof ridge, which is
the intersection of the uppermost sloping roof planes. The ridge
vents can cooperate with eave vents, positioned in the eaves, to
allow a flow of air to enter the eave vents, travel through a space
between adjoining roof rafters to the attic, travel through the
attic and exit through the ridge vents.
[0003] Ridge vents can be positioned over an elongated opening
formed between the uppermost sloping roof planes. The opening can
allow hot air within the attic to escape the attic. Ridge vents can
be provided in discrete sections that can be placed end-to-end over
the opening. The discrete sections of the ridge vents can be flexed
to conform to the shape of the sloping roof planes and attached to
the roof planes via roof nails. It would be advantageous if ridge
vents were easier to install.
SUMMARY
[0004] In accordance with embodiments of this invention, there are
provided ridge vents configured to cover an open ridge of a roof
and allow a flow of air to exit from the open ridge through the
ridge vents. The ridge vents include a center portion having a
length and a plurality of grooves. Left and right portions are
connected to the center portion. The center portion is configured
to flex along it's length, thereby forming a ridge vent angle
between the left and right portions. The formed ridge vent angle is
configured to correspond with a slope between roof decks defining
the open ridge.
[0005] In accordance with other embodiments, there are also
provided ridge vents configured to cover an open ridge of a roof
and allow a flow of air to exit from the open ridge through the
ridge vents. The ridge vents include a center portion having
opposing ends. Each of the opposing ends has a plurality of
projections, each having a plurality of legs that have a
cross-sectional shape in the form of a "V". The plurality of legs
form sealing structures. Left and right portions are connected to
the center portion. The plurality of legs of the plurality of
projections are configured to nest against each other as the center
portion of the ridge vent is flexed, thereby forming sealing
structures at the end of the center portion of the ridge vent.
[0006] In accordance with other embodiments, there are also
provided methods for installing ridge vents over an open ridge of a
roof and allow a flow of air to exit from the open ridge through
the ridge vents. The methods include the steps of providing a ridge
vent, the ridge vent having a center portion and a left and right
portion connected to the center portion, the center portion having
a length and a plurality of grooves, the grooves having a shallow
dome-shaped cross-sectional shape, wherein the center portion is
configured to flex along it's length, thereby forming a ridge vent
angle between the left and right portions, flexing a first ridge
vent to form a ridge vent angle, wherein the ridge vent angle is
configured to correspond with a slope between roof decks defining
the open ridge, positioning the first flexed ridge vent over the
open ridge of the roof, fastening the first flexed ridge vent to
the roof decks, flexing subsequent ridge vents, connecting the
subsequently flexed ridge vents to the previously installed ridge
vents, fastening the subsequently flexed ridge vents to the roof
decks and covering the installed ridge vents with ridge
shingles.
[0007] Various objects and advantages will become apparent to those
skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the
invention, when read in light of the accompanying drawings. It is
to be expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for
illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as defining the
limits of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] FIG. 1 is a partial perspective view of a ridge vent shown
installed on a portion of a roof in accordance with embodiments of
this invention.
[0009] FIG. 2 is a front elevational view of the ridge vent of FIG.
1 shown installed on a portion of a roof.
[0010] FIG. 3 is a partial perspective view of the ridge vent of
FIG. 1 illustrated in a flexed position.
[0011] FIG. 4 is an elevational view of the bottom of the ridge
vent of FIG. 1.
[0012] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a portion of the ridge vent
of FIG. 1 illustrating a first nailing boss.
[0013] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a portion of the ridge vent
of FIG. 1 illustrating projections positioned within the central
portion.
[0014] FIG. 7 is an elevational view of a portion of the bottom of
the ridge vent of FIG. 1 illustrating a second nailing boss.
[0015] FIG. 8 is a side elevational view of a portion of the ridge
vent of FIG. 1 illustrating a wing.
[0016] FIG. 9 is a partial perspective view of the ridge vent of
FIG. 1 connected to a second ridge vent.
[0017] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a portion of the ridge vent
of FIG. 1 illustrating a second embodiment of the projections
positioned within the central portion.
[0018] FIG. 11 is a side elevational view of a portion of the ridge
vent of FIG. 1 illustrating a second embodiment of the wing.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0019] The present invention will now be described with occasional
reference to the specific embodiments of the invention. This
invention may, however, be embodied in 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
be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the
invention to those skilled in the art.
[0020] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms
used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The
terminology used in the description of the invention herein is for
describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be
limiting of the invention. As used in the description of the
invention and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an,"
and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless
the context clearly indicates otherwise.
[0021] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing
quantities of dimensions such as length, width, height, and so
forth as used in the specification and claims are to be understood
as being modified in all instances by the term "about."
Accordingly, unless otherwise indicated, the numerical properties
set forth in the specification and claims are approximations that
may vary depending on the desired properties sought to be obtained
in embodiments of the present invention. Notwithstanding that the
numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of
the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in
the specific examples are reported as precisely as possible. Any
numerical values, however, inherently contain certain errors
necessarily resulting from error found in their respective
measurements.
[0022] In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a
ridge vent is provided. It will be understood the term "ridge"
refers to the intersection of the uppermost sloping roof planes.
The term "roof plane" is defined to mean the plane defined by a
roof surface. The term "slope" is defined to mean the degree of
roof incline expressed as a ratio of the rise in inches to the run
of roof. The term "sheathing", as used herein, is defined to mean
exterior grade boards used as a roof deck material. The term "roof
deck", as used herein is defined to mean the surface installed over
the supporting framing members to which the roofing is applied. The
term "louvers" as used herein, is defined to mean a quantity of
openings positioned in the ridge vent and used for ventilation
purposes.
[0023] Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, an exemplary ridge vent 10
is shown. Generally, the ridge vent 10 is configured to span a
ridge opening 12 formed between opposing first and second roof
planes, 14 and 16, and allow a flow of air to travel through an
attic and exit through the ridge vent 10.
[0024] Each of the first and second roof planes, 14 and 16, is
formed by a series of generally parallel, spaced apart rafters 18
(for purposes of clarity, only one rafter 18 is shown for each of
the roof planes, 14 and 16). In the illustrated embodiment, the
rafters 18 are connected at one end to a ridge board 22 and at the
other end to a wall (not shown). In other embodiments, the ends of
the rafters 18 can be connected to other desired components or
structures. In the illustrated embodiment, the rafters 18 and the
ridge board 22 are made from framing lumber, having sizes
including, but not limited to 2 inches thick by 10 inches wide.
Alternatively, the rafters 18 and the ridge board 22 can be made
from other desired materials and have other desired sizes.
[0025] The first and second roof planes, 14 and 16, intersect with
the ridge board 22 thereby forming slope angle .alpha.. In the
illustrated embodiment, the slope angle .alpha. is approximately
120.degree.. Alternatively, the slope angle .alpha. can be more or
less than approximately 120.degree..
[0026] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the rafters 18 are covered by
sheathing 24. The sheathing 24 is configured to form an upper
surface 28 of the roof planes, 14 and 16. In the illustrated
embodiment, the sheathing 24 is made of a wood-based material,
including, but not limited to oriented strand board or plywood. In
other embodiments, the sheathing 24 can be other desired
materials.
[0027] The upper surface 28 of the roof planes, 14 and 16, supports
a plurality of shingles 26. The shingles 26 are attached to the
upper surface 28 of the sheathing 24 by using any desired
fasteners, including, but not limited to roofing nails (not shown).
It should be understood that the shingles 26 can be any desired
roofing material.
[0028] While the ridge opening 12 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is formed
by the structure of the rafters 18, ridge board 22 and roof planes,
14 and 16, it should be understood the ridge opening 12 can be
formed by other structures or combinations of structures.
[0029] As shown in FIG. 2, the ridge vent 10 includes a center
portion 32, a left portion 34 and a right portion 36. The center
portion 32, left portion 34 and the right portion 36 each have a
top surface, 32a, 34a and 36a, respectively and a bottom surface
32b, 34b and 36b, respectively. The left portion 34 has a left edge
35 and the right portion 36 has a right edge 37.
[0030] Referring again to FIG. 2, the center portion 32 of the
ridge vent 10 is configured to flex, thereby allowing the left and
right portions, 34 and 36, to form a ridge vent angle .beta.. The
ridge vent angle .beta. is configured to allow the bottom surfaces,
34b and 36, of the left and right portions, 34 and 36, to seat
against the first and second roof planes, 14 and 16. In the
illustrated embodiment, the ridge vent angle .beta. is the same
angle as the slope angle .alpha. formed by the opposing rafters 18.
In other embodiments, the ridge vent angle .beta. can be other
angles suitable to allow the bottom surfaces, 34b and 36, of the
left and right portions, 34 and 36, to seat against the first and
second roof planes, 14 and 16. As will be explained later in more
detail, the left and right portions, 34 and 36, of the ridge vent
10 are fastened to the roof planes, 14 and 16, and portions of the
ridge vent 10 are covered by a row of vent shingles 30.
[0031] As shown in FIG. 2, the ridge vent 10 spans the ridge
opening 12 formed between the first and second roof planes, 14 and
16, and allows a flow of exhaust air to travel through an attic and
exit through the ridge vent 10. The flow of the exhaust air is
shown by the arrows A.
[0032] Referring now to FIG. 3, the ridge vent 10 is shown in a
flexed position. The ridge vent 10 has a length L and a thickness
T. In the illustrated embodiment, the length L is approximately 48
inches and the thickness is approximately 1.0 inches.
Alternatively, the length L of the ridge vent 10 can be more or
less than approximately 48 inches and the thickness T can be more
or less than approximately 1.0 inches.
[0033] The center portion 32 includes a plurality of optional
grooves 38. Generally, the grooves 38 are configured to provide
sufficient flexibility to the center portion 32 to allow the ridge
vent 10 to flex in a direction generally perpendicular to the
length L of the ridge vent 10, while also providing structural
reinforcement to the center portion 32. The combination of
flexibility and structural reinforcement provided by the grooves 38
allows a controlled curvature of the ridge vent 10 as the ridge
vent 10 is flexed. The controlled curvature provides the flexed
ridge vent 10 with a smooth curvature when installed on a roof.
However, configuring the ridge vent 10 to include the grooves 38 is
optional and not necessary for the use of the ridge vent 10.
[0034] As shown in FIG. 3, the grooves 38 are oriented to extend in
a direction generally parallel to each other and parallel to the
edges, 35 and 37. Alternatively, the grooves 38 can have other
orientations sufficient to allow the ridge vent 10 to flex in a
direction generally perpendicular to the length L of the ridge vent
10, while also providing structural reinforcement to the center
portion 32. The grooves will be discussed in more detail below.
[0035] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 6, the center portion 32 of the
ridge vent 10 includes a plurality of projections 40 extending from
the top surface 32a of the center portion 32. The plurality of
projections 40 are configured to nest against each other as the
center portion 32 of the ridge vent 10 is flexed, thereby
effectively sealing the end of the center portion 32 of the ridge
vent 10. The projections 40 will be discussed in more detail
below.
[0036] Referring again to FIG. 3, the left and right portions, 34
and 36, have fastening apertures 42. The fastening apertures 42 are
spaced apart along the length L of the ridge vent 10. The fastening
apertures 42 are configured to allow a fastener (not shown) to be
inserted into the fastening aperture 42 and held in the fastening
aperture 42 after insertion, thereby allowing the installer to
position the ridge vent 10 on the roof prior to securing the ridge
vent 10 to the roof planes, 14 and 16. In one embodiment, the
fastener is a roofing nail. In other embodiments, the fastener can
be other desired devices, including, but not limited to flat-headed
screws. The aperture 42 has an internal diameter DA. In the
illustrated embodiment, the internal diameter DA is approximately
0.120 inches corresponding to a roofing nail having a 12 gauge
shank diameter. Alternatively, the internal diameter DA can be more
or less than approximately 0.120 inches corresponding to roofing
nails having other desired shank diameters.
[0037] As shown in FIG. 3, the left and right portions, 34 and 36,
each have a nail line 44 (for purposes of clarity, only the nail
line 44 on right portion 36 is shown). The nail line 44 extends
along the length L of the ridge vent 10 and generally parallel to
the edge 37. The nail line 44 is configured to provide locations in
which the installer can nail ridge vent shingles 30 to the ridge
vent 10. The installation of the ridge vent 10 and ridge vent
shingles 30 will be discussed in more detail below. In the
illustrated embodiment, the nail line 44 includes a plurality of
images 46. The images 46 include suggested nail insertion positions
and instructions to the installer for installing ridge vent
shingles over the ridge vent 10. Alternatively, the nail line 44
can be void of any images or the nail line 44 can include any
desired images.
[0038] Referring again to FIG. 3, the ridge vent 10 includes a left
wing 48 and a right wing 50. The left wing 48 is positioned on the
top surface 34a of the left portion 34 at the left edge 35.
Similarly, the right wing 50 is positioned on the top surface 36a
of the right portion 36 at the right edge 50. In the illustrated
embodiment, the wings, 48 and 50, extend along the length L of the
ridge vent 10. Alternatively, the wings, 48 and 50, can extend a
desired distance that is shorter than the length L of the ridge
vent 10. Generally, the wings, 48 and 50, are configured to assist
in the flow of air through the ridge vent 10. The flow of air
through the ridge vent 10 will be discussed in more detail
below.
[0039] As shown in FIG. 3, optionally the ridge vent 10 includes
indicia 52 positioned on the top surfaces, 32a, 34a and 36a of the
ridge vent 10. For purposes of clarity, the indicia 52 is only
shown on the right portion 36 and at one end of the center portion
32. The indicia 52 can include a variety of desired messages,
including, but not limited to product and company logos,
promotional messages, installation instructions and product
features. However, configuring the ridge vent 10 to include indicia
52 is optional and not necessary for the use of the ridge vent
10.
[0040] Referring again to FIG. 3, the ridge vent 10 includes a
plurality of louvers 54. In operation, the flow of air through the
ridge vent 10 exits through the louvers 54. In the illustrated
embodiment, the louvers 54 are arranged in a column and row
configuration having a quantity of two columns and rows extending
substantially along the length L of the ridge vent 10. In other
embodiments, the louvers 54 can be arranged in other desired
configurations. As shown in FIG. 3, the louvers 54 are positioned
such that an outward column is substantially adjacent an edge, 35
or 37. In other embodiments, the louvers 54 can be positioned in
other desired locations sufficient to allow the flow of air to exit
the ridge vent 10 through the louvers 54.
[0041] As shown in FIGS. 3-5, the louvers 54 have a square shape.
In other embodiments, the louvers 54 can have other shapes,
including, but not limited to round or hexagonal shapes sufficient
to allow the flow of air to exit the ridge vent 10 through the
louvers 54.
[0042] Referring now to FIG. 4, the ridge vent 10 has an un-flexed
width W extending from the left edge 35 to the right edge 37. In
the illustrated embodiment, the width W is approximately 14.35
inches. Alternatively, the width W can be more or less than
approximately 14.35 inches.
[0043] As shown in FIG. 4, the bottom surface 32b of the center
portion 32, the bottom surface 34b of the left portion 34 and the
bottom surface 36b of the right portion 36 are illustrated. As
discussed above, the center portion 32 of the ridge vent 10
includes the grooves 38. As shown in FIG. 4, the grooves 38 extend
substantially the length L of the ridge vent 10, but somewhat
shorter, and are substantially centered between the projections 40
located at the ends of the ridge vent 10. The grooves have a length
LG. In the illustrated embodiments, the length LG of the grooves 38
is approximately 46.0 inches. In other embodiments, the length LG
of the grooves 38 may longer or shorter than approximately 46.0
inches.
[0044] Referring now to FIG. 6, the grooves 38 have a shallow,
domed cross-sectional shape that extends the length LG of the
grooves 38. In other embodiments, the grooves 38 can have other
cross-sectional shapes sufficient to provide sufficient flexibility
to the center portion 32 to allow the ridge vent 10 to flex while
also providing structural reinforcement to the center portion 32.
It is also within the contemplation of this invention that the
grooves 38 may have differing cross-sectional shapes. In still
other embodiments, the grooves 38 may having cross-sectional shapes
that vary along the length LG of the grooves 38.
[0045] As shown in FIG. 6, the grooves 38 have a width WG. In the
illustrated embodiment, the width WG of the grooves 38 is
approximately 0.25 inches. Alternatively, the width WG of the
grooves can be more or less than approximately 0.25 inches.
[0046] Referring again to the illustrated embodiment shown in FIG.
4, the ridge vent 10 has a quantity of six grooves 38.
Alternatively, the ridge vent 10 can have more or less than six
grooves 38.
[0047] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 6, the plurality of projections 40
extend from the bottom surface 32b of the center portion 32. As
discussed above, the plurality of projections 40 are configured to
nest against each other as the center portion 32 of the ridge vent
10 is flexed, thereby forming a sealing structure for the end of
the center portion 32 of the ridge vent 10. In the illustrated
embodiment, the projections 40 have a cross sectional shape in the
form of a "V" wherein the tip of the "V" points in a direction
toward the groves 38. In other embodiments, the projections can
have other desired cross-sectional shapes and can be oriented in
different directions sufficient to form a sealing structure by
nesting against each other as the center portion 32 of the ridge
vent 10 is flexed, thereby effectively sealing the end of the
center portion 32 of the ridge vent.
[0048] As shown in FIG. 6, the projections 40 have two projection
legs, 41a and 41b, that intersect to form the "V" shape of the
projection 40. In the illustrated embodiment, the projection legs,
41a and 41b, have a same length LPL of approximately 3/8 inches. In
other embodiments, the length LPL of the projection legs, 41a and
41b, can be more or less than approximately 3/8 inches. In still
other embodiments, the length LPL of the projection legs, 41a and
41b, can be different from each other. While the embodiment shown
in FIG. 6 illustrates the projections 40 as having a "V" shape, it
is within the contemplation of this invention that the projections
40 could have other desired shapes, including, but not limited to a
"U" shape or a "W" shape.
[0049] Referring again to FIGS. 4 and 6, the projections 40 are
positioned in rows and arranged such that the projections 40 of the
inner most row straddle the projections 40 of the outer row.
Alternatively, the projections 40 can be positioned in any desired
quantity of rows and can be arranged in any desired configuration,
sufficient to nest against each other as the center portion 32 of
the ridge vent 10 is flexed, thereby effectively sealing the end of
the center portion 32 of the ridge vent.
[0050] As shown in FIG. 6, the projections 40 have a projection
length LP. In the illustrated embodiment, the projection length LP
is approximately 1.0 inches. In other embodiments, the projection
length LP can be more or less than approximately 1.0 inches.
[0051] While the embodiment shown in FIGS. 4 and 6 illustrates a
quantity of seven projections 40 positioned in the outer row and a
quantity of six projections 40 positioned in the inner most row, it
should be understood that any desired quantity of projections 40
can be used sufficient to nest against each other as the center
portion 32 of the ridge vent 10 is flexed, thereby effectively
sealing the end of the center portion 32 of the ridge vent.
[0052] Referring again to FIG. 4, as the ridge vent 10 is flexed,
the plurality of projections 40 form a sealed portion 60 at each
end of the ridge vent 10. The sealed portion 60 has a pre-sealed
width SW. In the illustrated embodiment, the pre-sealed width SW is
approximately 4.0 inches. However, the pre-sealed width SW can be
other desired dimensions.
[0053] Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 5 and as discussed above, the
ridge vent 10 has a plurality of fastening apertures 42, positioned
in the left and right portions, 34 and 36, and spaced apart along
the length L of the ridge vent 10. As best shown in FIG. 4, the
fastening apertures 42 are defined by a plurality of first nailing
bosses 62 and a plurality of second nailing bosses 64. Generally,
the first nailing bosses 62 are positioned near the ends of the
ridge vent 10 and the second nailing bosses 64 are positioned
within the interior of the ridge vent 10, although such is not
required. As best shown in FIG. 5, the first nailing bosses 62
include a cylindrical portion 66 and a plurality of gussets 68. The
cylindrical portion 64 is configured to extend from the bottom
surfaces, 34b and 36b, of the left and right portions, 34 and 36,
to the roof planes, thereby providing a solid support surface for
seating the fastener. The cylindrical portion 66 has a diameter
DCP. In the illustrated embodiment, the diameter DCP of the
cylindrical portion 66 is approximately 5/16 inches. Alternatively,
the diameter DCP of the cylindrical portion 66 can be more or less
than approximately 5/16 inches.
[0054] Referring again to FIG. 5, the gussets 68 are configured to
provide support for the cylindrical portion 66. While the gussets
68 in the illustrated embodiment have a triangular shape, the
gussets 68 can have any desired shape sufficient to provide support
for the cylindrical portion 66. In the illustrated embodiment, a
quantity of four gussets 68 are provided for each cylindrical
support 66, it should be understood than any number of gussets 68,
sufficient to support the cylindrical portion 66, can be
provided.
[0055] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 7, the second nailing bosses 64 have
a cylindrical portion 70 and are supported by a nailing baffle 72.
The cylindrical portion 70 is the same as the cylindrical portion
66 for the first nailing boss 62. The nailing baffle 72 is
configured to support the cylindrical portion 66. Any desired
number of second nailing bosses 64 can be used.
[0056] Referring again to FIG. 4, the ridge vent 10 includes a
plurality of edge baffles, 80a and 80b, and interior baffles 82.
The edge baffles, 80a and 80b, extend in a direction that is
generally perpendicular to either the left or right edge, 35 or 37,
toward the center portion 32 of the ridge vent 10. The edge
baffles, 80a and 80b, are configured to provide structural support
to the right and left edges, 35 and 37, as well as providing
structural support to the areas of the left and right portions, 34
and 36, in which the louvers 54 are positioned. The edge baffles,
80a and 80b, extend different lengths from the edges, 35 or 37. In
the illustrated embodiment, the edge baffles 80a extend a length
LB1 of approximately 1.75 inches and the edge baffles 80b extend a
length LB2 of approximately 2.50 inches. Alternatively the lengths
LB1 and LB2, can be other desired lengths sufficient configured to
provide structural support to the right and left edges, 35 and 37,
as well as providing structural support to the areas of the left
and right portions, 34 and 36, in which the louvers 54 are
positioned. In the illustrated embodiment, all of the edge baffles
80a have the same length LB1. In other embodiments, the edge
baffles 80a can be varying lengths. Similarly, it is also within
the contemplation of this invention that the edge baffles 80b can
have varying lengths.
[0057] As shown in FIG. 4, the interior baffles 82 are oriented in
a direction that is generally perpendicular to the grooves 38 and
extend in a line along the length L of the ridge vent 10. The
interior baffles 82 are positioned between the grooves 38 and the
louvers 54. The interior baffles 82 are configured to provide
structural support to the left and right portions, 34 and 36. In
the illustrated embodiment, the interior baffles 82 have a length
LB3 of approximately 1.25 inches and have a distance DB between the
interior baffles of approximately 2.00 inches. Alternatively the
length LB3 and the distance DB can be other desired dimensions
sufficient configured to provide structural support to the left and
right portions. While the interior baffles 82 in the illustrated
embodiment are all shown to have the same length LB3, it is within
the contemplation of this invention that the interior baffles 82
can have varying lengths.
[0058] While the embodiment shown in FIG. 4 illustrates the edge
baffles, 80a and 80b, and interior baffles 82 as straight members
that are oriented to be substantially perpendicular to the edges,
35 and 37, it is within the contemplation of this invention that
the edge baffles, 80a and 80b, and interior baffles 82. could be
curved members or have curved portions and also could be oriented
at a desired angle to the edges, 35 and 37.
[0059] Referring now to FIGS. 3 and 8, the ridge vent 10 has a left
wing 48 and a right wing 50 (for purposes of clarity, FIG. 8
provides an enlarged view of the left wing 48). The left wing 48
extends in an upward direction and beyond the square-shaped profile
created by the intersection of the left edge 35 and the top surface
34a of the left portion 34. Without being bound by the theory, it
is believed that as wind encounters one of the left or right wings,
48 or 50, flowing in a direction toward the center portion 32 of
the ridge vent 10, the wing deflects the wind up and over the
louvers 54, creating an area of relatively lower pressure above the
louvers 54. The area of low pressure above the louvers 54 causes a
lifting action thereby pulling air through the ridge vent 10 and
out of the attic. Accordingly, the area of relatively lower
pressure, caused by the wings, 48 and 50, facilitates the exit flow
of attic air through the ridge vent 10. In the illustrated
embodiment, the left wing 48 has a length LW of approximately 0.375
inches. In other embodiments, the length LW can be more or less
than approximately 0.375 inches sufficient to facilitate the exit
flow of attic air through the ridge vent 10. The left wing 48 forms
a wing angle .mu. with the left edge 35. In the illustrated
embodiment, the wing angle .mu. is approximately 135.degree.. In
other embodiments, the wing angle .mu. can be more or less than
approximately 135.degree. sufficient to facilitate the exit flow of
attic air through the ridge vent 10.
[0060] Referring now to FIG. 9, a plurality of attachment fixtures
90 are connected to one end of the ridge vent 10. A plurality of
corresponding attachment receptacles 92 are positioned at the
opposite end of the ridge vent 10. As shown in FIG. 9, the ridge
vent 10 is connected to a second ridge vent 10' by connecting the
attachment fixtures 90 of ridge vent 10 to the corresponding
attachment receptacles 92 of ridge vent 10'. The connection between
the ridge vent 10 and the second ridge vent 10' is configured to
provide a quick, easy and gapless connection that can be
accomplished without the use of special tools. In the illustrated
embodiment, the attachment fixtures 90 are pins and the attachment
receptacles 92 are corresponding apertures. Alternatively, other
desired structures, including, but not limited to dovetail joints,
tongue and groove joints and tabs and slots, can be used.
[0061] Referring now to FIGS. 1-3, the ridge vent 10 is installed
over the ridge opening 12 in the following steps. First, a first
ridge vent 10 is flexed thereby forming ridge vent angle .beta.
between the left and right portions, 34 and 36. The ridge vent 10
is flexed until the ridge vent angle .beta. is the same as the
slope angle .alpha. formed by the opposing rafters 18. Next, the
flexed ridge vent 10 is positioned over the ridge opening 12 and
fastened to the first and second roof planes, 14 and 16. The first
ridge vent 10 is installed such that the attachment fixtures 90 are
positioned at the edge of the roof planes, 14 and 16. The flexed
ridge vent 10 is fastened to the roof planes, 14 and 16, as
discussed above. Subsequent ridge vents 10 are flexed in a similar
manner and connected to the installed ridge vent until the ridge
opening 12 is completely covered. Finally as shown in FIG. 1, a
course of ridge vent shingles 30 is installed, in an overlapping
manner, over the installed ridge vents 10. In the illustrated
embodiment, the ridge vent shingles 30 are installed over the ridge
vents 10 using the nail lines 44 as nailing guides. Alternatively,
other desired methods, including, but not limited to staples and
adhesives, can be used to install the ridge vent shingles 30 over
the ridge vents 10.
[0062] As discussed above, the ridge vent 10 is configured for
several functions, including spanning a ridge opening 12 and
allowing a flow of air to travel through an attic and exit through
the ridge vent 10. These functions are performed in an outdoor
environment, with all of the elements of the weather. Accordingly,
the ridge vent 10 is made of a material sufficient to provide both
structural and weatherability features. In the illustrated
embodiment, the ridge vent 10 is made of a polypropylene material.
Alternatively, the ridge vent 10 can be made of other polymeric
materials sufficient to provide both structural and weatherability
features. In other embodiments, the ridge vent 10 can be made of
other desired materials or a combination of desired materials.
[0063] In another embodiment of the ridge vent as shown in FIG. 10,
the ends of the center portion 132 include a sealing web 193 in
lieu of projections. The sealing web 193 extends from the top
surface 132a of the center portion 132 and is configured to
compress the folds of the sealing web 193 against each other as the
center portion 132 of the ridge vent is flexed, thereby effectively
sealing the end of the center portion 132 of the ridge vent. While
the sealing web 193 is illustrated as having folds with sharp
angles, it is within the contemplation of this invention that the
folds can be rounded or have other desired shapes sufficient to
seal the end of the center portion 132 of the ridge vent.
[0064] In another embodiment of the ridge vent as shown in FIG. 11,
the ridge vent has a wing 248 has the shape of a spoiler. In the
illustrated embodiment, the wing 248 includes a stem 296 and an
airfoil 297. The stem 296 extends in an upward direction and beyond
the square-shaped profile created by the intersection of the left
edge 235 and the top surface 234a of the left portion 234. The
airfoil 297 is connected to the stem 296 at an desired angle in
order to create the area of relatively lower pressure above the
louvers. In the illustrated embodiment, the airfoil 297 has a
substantially flat cross-sectional profile. In other embodiments,
the airfoil 297 can have other desired cross-sectional profiles for
producing desired aerodynamic effects.
[0065] The principle and mode of operation of this shingle ridge
vent has been described in certain embodiments. However, it should
be noted that the shingle ridge vent may be practiced otherwise
than as specifically illustrated and described without departing
from its scope.
* * * * *