Laminated glass retention system
Claim Score by NHIP
Abstract
A laminated glass retention system for securing a laminated glass subassembly within a window sash or frame member or door panel or similar component includes a retention member applied to the laminated glass subassembly. The retention member generally can include a leg portion that engages of the laminated glass subassembly, and can further include a base portion that is coupled to the frame member in which the laminated glass subassembly is seated. The retention member helps retain the insulating glass subassembly within its frame member when subjected to high winds and wind-borne debris.

Term
6.9 yearsto projected expiry
Projected expiry 31 July 2033, counted from filing; an application has no term until it is granted.
- Priority
- Filed
- Published
- Today
- Projected expiry
38 claims: 6 independent, 32 dependent
- 1A method of forming a window or door having a reinforced glass subassembly, comprising:applying a retention member of a retention material about a proximal end of the glass subassembly, the retention member extending along and engaging at least a portion an inside facing surface and/or a portion of the proximal end of the glass subassembly;inserting the proximal end of the glass subassembly with the retention member engaged therewith into a receiving channel of a window or door frame member;and seating the proximal end of the glass subassembly and the retention member within a bed of a glazing material applied along the receiving channel.
- 10A window or door assembly, comprising:a frame member defining a channel;a glass subassembly having a proximal end received and seated within the channel, an inside facing surface, and an outside facing surface;a retention member engaging at least one of a portion of the inside facing surface of the glass subassembly and/or a portion of the proximal end of the glass subassembly;and a glazing material received at a lower end of the channel;wherein the outside facing surface of the glass subassembly and at least a portion of the retention member extending adjacent at least a portion of the proximal end of the glass subassembly are attached to the channel of the frame member.
- 23A method of forming a window or door having a reinforced glass subassembly, comprising:applying a heel bead and a bed of a sealant material along a receiving channel of a frame member;placing the glass subassembly in the receiving channel with an outside facing surface of the glass subassembly in sealing engagement with the heel bead and bed of sealant material;and attaching a retention member along at least one of an inside facing surface of the glass subassembly and/or a proximal end of the glass subassembly, with a portion of the retention member projecting into the bed of sealant material to adhere the retention member to the frame member.
- 31Broadest claimClaim Score 75, broad(NHIP)A building component having a reinforced glass subassembly, comprising:a frame member having a base and a side wall extending substantially transversely with respect to the base, the base and side wall defining a channel in which the glass subassembly is received;a bed of sealant material applied along the base of the frame member for attaching the glass subassembly to the frame member;and a retention member connected to the side wall of the frame member by a hinge so as to enable the retention member to be pivoted into engagement with at least an inside facing surface of the glass subassembly received within the channel.
- 37A method of forming a window or door having a reinforced glass subassembly, comprising:applying a retention member of a lineal material about a proximal end of the glass subassembly, the retention member having a body extending along and engaging a proximal end of the glass subassembly;inserting the proximal end of the glass subassembly with the retention member engaged therewith into a receiving channel of a window or door frame member;and seating the proximal end of the glass subassembly and the retention member within a bed of a glazing material applied along the receiving channel.
- 38A window or door assembly, comprising:a frame member defining a channel;a glass subassembly having a proximal end received within the channel, a proximal end edge, an inside facing surface, and an outside facing surface;a retention member applied along at least one of a portion of the inside facing surface of the glass subassembly and/or a portion of the proximal end of the glass subassembly;and a glazing material received at a lower end of the channel, engaging a side wall of the channel of the frame member;wherein the outside facing surface of the glass subassembly and at least a portion of the retention member extending along at least a portion of the proximal end of the glass subassembly are received and seated within the glazing material to attach the glass subassembly and retention member to the frame member.
Independent claims6
68 paragraphs in 6 sections, as filed
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
p-0002The present patent application is a formalization of previously filed, co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/526,060, filed Aug. 22, 2011 and co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/503,686, filed Jul. 1, 2011, by the inventors named in the present application. This patent application claims the benefit of the filing date of these cited Provisional patent applications according to the statutes and rules governing provisional patent applications, particularly 35 U.S.C. §119(a)(i) and 37 C.F.R. §1.78(a)(4) and (a)(5). The specification and drawings of the Provisional patent applications referenced above are specifically incorporated herein by reference as if set forth in their entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
p-0003The present invention generally relates to a system and method for retaining one or more layers of glass within a frame of a fenestration unit, and in particular to a system and method for retaining an insulated glass substantially including a laminated layer of glass providing protection against wind borne debris within a window or door.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
p-0004Given often harsher environmental conditions encountered in coastal areas, there have been increasingly stringent standards, rules and regulations being passed with regard to fenestration units such as windows and doors and the ability of such windows and doors to withstand extreme environmental conditions. For example, in many coastal areas, such as in Florida and along the eastern seaboard, hurricanes and tropical storms having gale force winds and the incidence of wind borne debris are a yearly occurrence and threat. In addition, it is important for the glass subassemblies of such coastal impact windows and doors to be supported and retained within their window sash or frame assemblies or door panel or frame assemblies after impact, and/or after the glass has been broken to provide blast mitigation protection. Still further, these windows and doors generally must provide enhanced insulation capabilities when exposed to temperature extremes, especially in summer months when temperatures in some coastal areas can reach well over 100° F., while in the winter months, temperatures can be well below freezing.
p-0005Currently, for the manufacture of coastal impact products, in order to form such products with the desired levels of strength and stability to retain the insulated glass assembly after contact with windborne debris, additional time generally must be spent during the manufacturing process. A common method in the industry to achieve this retention is to add additional glazing material to the gap between the edge of the insulated glass assembly and the sash or frame to increase the bond area between the glass assembly and the sash or frame, in a process commonly referred to as back glazing. Such glazing material must be applied all around the glass edge in a complete and as full an application as possible. This generally requires significant craftsmanship/skill on the part of the workers, and considerable additional manufacturing time to ensure that the back-glazing is sufficient to meet required missile impact and pressure cycling (due to windborne debris) test standards for such coastal impact products. Additionally, this method requires all the work to be done in-line during the assembly of the sash/frame, causing a potential drop in efficiency and capacity of the manufacturing assembly line.
p-0006Accordingly, it can be seen that a need exists for a system and/or process that enables the more efficient manufacture of insulated glass fenestration units having laminated glass structures, which meet or exceed required coastal impact product standards.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
p-0007Briefly described, the present invention generally relates to a system for the retention of insulating glass subassembly within a window sash or frame assembly or a door panel or frame assembly or other, similar building components, and methods of assembling such reinforced glass subassemblies in such building components. The system and method of the present invention generally includes a retention member that typically comprises a lineal member and can include a resilient body formed from a resilient, flexible extruded or synthetic material. Alternatively, the retention member further could include a fibrous reinforcing tape or fabric material. Still further, the retention member can be formed as a composite material including a series of fibers or other reinforcing tape materials with an adhesive layer being preapplied thereto, or being previously applied to the insulating glass subassembly, with the tape or fibers reinforcing material thereafter being applied over the adhesive layer so as to secure the retention member to the insulating glass subassembly. The retention member engages and supports and retains the insulated glass sub-assembly within the frame of a window sash or frame assembly or door panel and frame assembly to enable transfer of tensile loads from the insulating glass subassembly to the frame upon impact, which provides protection against wind borne debris that meets or exceeds applicable ASTM and TAS large and small impact pressure cycling standards for coastal impact products, as well as applicable ASTM, GSA, AAMA and UFC standards for blast migration protection for such products.
p-0008In one example embodiment, the retention member can be formed from a lineal material applied about a proximal end of an insulating glass subassembly. The retention member generally will include a body having a leg portion that can be applied along an inside facing surface of the glass subassembly, and a base portion that extends at an angle away from the leg portion and along the proximal interior edge of the glass subassembly. The base portion of the retention member can be adhered along the interior facing surface and proximal end of a laminated pane assembly of the insulating glass subassembly and attached to an inner edge of an exterior pane of the glass subassembly. In addition, the base portion of the retention member further can be adhered or otherwise connected to a spacer between the exterior pane and the laminated glass pane structure of the glass subassembly to provide additional, expanded surface area contact between the insulating glass subassembly and the retention member. Still further, it is also possible to use a retention member without a leg portion engaging the insulating glass subassembly and with its base portion adhered and secured to the proximal end of the insulating glass subassembly and to the frame channel of the window sash or frame assembly or door panel or frame assembly to retain the insulated glass subassembly within the frame channel.
p-0009In one embodiment, the retention member can be applied to the insulating glass subassembly prior to the insulating glass subassembly being mounted within a window sash or frame assembly or door panel or frame assembly, or alternatively can be applied after the insulating glass subassembly has been seated within the window sash or frame assembly or door panel frame or assembly. Typically, a heel bead of a sealing adhesive material will be applied along the channel of the frame in which the proximal end edge of the exterior pane of the insulating glass subassembly will be received, and a bed of glazing material further generally will be applied along a lower portion of the frame channel so as to engage and adhere/seal the exterior facing surface of the exterior pane of the insulating glass subassembly to the frame. When the insulating glass subassembly is applied to the channel of the frame member of the window sash frame assembly or door panel frame or assembly, the base portion of the retention member also generally will be received within the heel bead and bed of glazing material. This not only helps secure the insulating glass subassembly with the frame channel, but also connects the retention member to the window sash or frame assembly or door panel or frame assembly as well.
p-0010In an alternative embodiment, the retention member can comprise a hinged member formed along the frame of the window sash frame or assembly or door panel frame or assembly at an interior end of the channel thereof. The hinged retention member can be formed as a part of the frame and can be folded over into a position so as to engage the interior facing surface of the laminated pane structure of the insulating glass subassembly. An adhesive material, including an adhesive bead, tape material or other, similar adhesive further can be applied between the surface of the pivoting retention member and the interior facing surface of the laminated pane structure so as to adhere the retention member to the laminated pane structure of the insulating glass subassembly.
p-0011In still a further alternative embodiment of the present invention, the retention member can be used in conjunction with an interior glass stop for windows or doors, and which is adapted to engage and connect to the window sash or frame assembly or door panel or frame assembly. At least one barbed spline can be formed along a proximal side of the body of the interior glass stop, and can be inserted into locking engagement with a kerf of the interior sash or door panel component. A reinforcing member can be applied between a lower surface of the interior glass stop and the interior facing surface of the laminated glass structure of the insulating glass subassembly to help seat and secure the insulating glass subassembly between the frame of the window sash or frame assembly or door panel or frame assembly and the interior glass stop. The interior glass stop further can include a downwardly projecting leg, or, alternatively can be formed with a two-piece structure with a separate connector that attaches to and secures the body to the interior sash component.
p-0012In another embodiment, the combination of the retention member and interior glass stop can be assembled to form a reinforced window sash or frame assembly or door panel or frame assembly, by first applying the retention member to the glass subassembly, and then the interior glass stop can be mounted to the window sash or frame assembly or door panel or frame assembly by placing the body of the interior glass stop over the interior surface of the glass subassembly and urging the barbed spline thereof into the kerf of the interior sash component, and with the connector leg projecting into and becoming at least partially enveloped by the heel bead of sealant. Once the sealant has cured, the glass stop will be further rigidly tied to the glass subassembly and to the window sash or frame member or door panel or frame assembly.
p-0013Various features, objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon a reading of the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
p-0014<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> illustrates an embodiment of an insulated glass fenestration unit having a laminated glass structure according to the principles of the present invention and utilizing a PVC glass retention member.
p-0015<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2A</figref> is a plan view illustrating the engagement of a frame member with a glass stop pre-applied thereto, with the insulated glass assembly.
p-0016<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2B</figref> is a cross-sectional view, taken along lines <b>2</b>B-<b>2</b>B of <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2A</figref>, of an additional embodiment of the present invention incorporating a VHB tape material combined with a fiberglass cloth for the retention member.
p-0017<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2C</figref> is a cross-sectional view of the retention member of <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2A-2B</figref>.
p-0018<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3A</figref> illustrates yet another additional embodiment of the present invention incorporating the use of a fibrous or reinforced tape material for the retention member.
p-0019<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3B</figref> is a cross-sectional view of the retention member of <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2A</figref>.
p-0020<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4A</figref> is a cross-sectional view of still a further embodiment of the present invention incorporating a fibrous or reinforced tape material for the retention member.
p-0021<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4B</figref> is a cross-sectional view of an alternate construction of the embodiment of the present invention as illustrated in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4A</figref>.
p-0022<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5A-5B</figref> are cross-sectional views of yet another embodiment of the present invention incorporating a flexible hinge component as part of the retention member.
p-0023<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6A-6C</figref> are schematic illustrations of one embodiment of a process for applying the retention member to the laminated glass structure prior to assembly of the glass subassembly and sash or frame member.
p-0024<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7A-7D</figref> are schematic illustrations of an alternative embodiment of a process for applying the retention member to the laminated glass structure after assembly of the glass subassembly and sash or frame member.
p-0025<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7E</figref> is a plan view illustrating the engagement of a frame member with a glass stop pre-applied thereto, with the insulating glass subassembly.
p-0026<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7F</figref> is a cross-sectional view, taken along lines <b>7</b>F-<b>7</b>F of <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7E</figref>, illustrating the engagement of a frame member with a glass stop pre-applied thereto, with the insulating glass subassembly.
p-0027<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8A</figref> is a perspective view illustrating one example method of the application of the retention member to a glass subassembly.
p-0028<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8B</figref> is a perspective illustration of the retention member with perforations of <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8A</figref> applied to an insulating glass assembly.
p-0029<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 9A-9C</figref> illustrate further alternative embodiments of the present invention incorporating the retention member with an interior glass stop for window sash or frame assemblies and/or door panel or frame assemblies.
p-0030<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10A-10C</figref> are cross-sectional views illustrating alternative configurations of the present invention incorporating the retention member and glass stop of <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 9A-9D</figref>.
p-0031Those skilled in the art will appreciate the various advantages and benefits of the various embodiments of the present invention upon reading the following description of the invention and the embodiments thereof, with reference to the drawing figures. In addition, those skilled in the art will understand that, according to common practice, the various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale, and that dimensions of various features and elements of the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the disclosure.
DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
p-0032The present invention generally relates to a system and method for retaining layers of glass, and in particular a laminated layer of glass of a glass subassembly that is designed to provide protection against windborne debris in a window, door or other fenestration unit that meets or exceeds applicable ASTM and TAS large and small missile impact and pressure cycling standards for coastal impact products, as well as applicable ASTM, GSA, AAMA and UFC standards for blast mitigation protection. The present invention is designed to enhance the efficiency and cost effectiveness of the manufacture of such windows, doors or other fenestration units by enabling easier and more efficient assembly of a coastal impact product that typically will include an insulating glass subassembly incorporating a laminated glass structure along the rearward side thereof. The present invention further can be incorporated into any window or door or other fenestration product that is exteriorly glazed with the laminated glass layers arranged toward an inside portion or region of the window or door, and is illustrated in the attached drawings in various example embodiments. It further will be understood by those skilled in the art that while example window sash or frame assembly or door panel or frame assembly constructions and measurements or dimensions may be shown in the attached drawings, such constructions, measurements and dimensions are for descriptive and illustrative purposes only and should not be taken as limiting the scope of the present invention.
p-0033For illustrative purposes and not limitation, an example of such glass subassemblies is shown at <b>13</b> in the <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-2B</figref>, <b>3</b>A, <b>4</b>A-<b>4</b>B, <b>5</b>B, <b>6</b>B-<b>6</b>C, and <b>7</b>B-<b>10</b>C. As used herein, the term glass subassembly will include transparent window components such as insulating glazing units, laminated glass panes, and other like fenestration components. One example glass subassembly <b>13</b> is an insulating glazing unit comprising a first, or exterior, pane of glass <b>27</b> and a laminated glass pane/structure <b>12</b> at a rearward side thereof so as to be facing an interior side of the window or door and exterior pane <b>27</b> facing outwardly. As shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, the laminated pane structure <b>12</b> can include a series of panes <b>12</b><i>a</i>-<b>12</b><i>c</i>, and defines a second, or interior pane of glass <b>12</b><i>a </i>that defines an interior facing or inside surface <b>11</b> for the glass subassembly, wherein the panes are held together in a parallel spaced apart manner by a peripheral sealing spacer <b>26</b> so as to define a space S between the panes that can contain air or other gas. The insulating glass subassembly will be received within a channel <b>14</b> of the sash or frame member <b>16</b> of a window or a door panel or frame member, and further generally will be adhered thereto with a bed of glazing <b>31</b> and a heel bead of glazing <b>25</b> typically including a silicone glazing material or other, similar material to meet applicable coastal impact product regulations and standards, applied within or along the channel as illustrated in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1</figref>, <b>2</b>A-<b>2</b>B and <b>3</b>A.
p-0034In one embodiment, the second, or interior, pane is of the well known shatterproof type comprising a laminate of two glass panes adhered to one another by an intervening layer of polymeric material. The shatterproof feature of the second pane reduces the likelihood of pieces of glass becoming dangerous projectiles once impacted on the exterior side by windborne debris. The shatterproof feature of the second pane also reduces the likelihood of piercing or creating a hole through the glass subassembly from wind borne debris impacting the exterior side of the subassembly, thus preventing the envelopment of the structure from becoming pressurized by hurricane force winds.
p-0035<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> portrays an edge portion of a window unit comprising a portion of glass subassembly <b>13</b>, a sash or frame member <b>16</b>, and a glass stop <b>43</b>. Glass subassembly <b>13</b> is adhesively attached and sealed to surface <b>32</b> of sash or frame member <b>16</b> by bed glazing adhesive <b>31</b>. The structural integrity of the window unit can be enhanced by back glazing additional bed glazing material that extends along inner surface <b>14</b><i>a </i>of frame channel <b>14</b> so as to provide additional bonding area and to place a portion of the bond in shear loading rather than tensile loading. This additional adhesive is commonly called a heel bead, shown at <b>25</b> in the Figs. In this embodiment, a glass stop <b>43</b> also can be attached, by mechanical, adhesive, or other suitable means, to sash or frame member <b>16</b> to improve the appearance of the window unit, and may also contribute to the structural integrity of the unit.
p-0036The choice of adhesive compositions useful for bed glazing <b>31</b> and heel bead <b>25</b> is not particularly limited, provided the adhesive materials exhibit adequate adhesion and sealing for the life of the window or door. Silicone materials such as silicone RTV (room temperature vulcanizing) sealants are well known to be useful for attaching and sealing glass members to frames or sashes. Hot melt silicone materials have also been found useful. Both types of silicone materials are available in various grades from Dow Corning Corporation, Midland, Mich. Adhesives and sealants based on polyurethane, polyamide, polyvinyl acetate, other known polymers, and copolymers and other combinations thereof, may also be useful. It will be appreciated that the material used for the heel bead in a particular window or door application need not be the same as the material used for the bed glazing in that window or door. For example, since the heel bead adhesive material and the bed glazing adhesive material typically bond to surfaces having different surface adhesion properties, it may be beneficial to choose different adhesive materials for the heel bead and the bed glazing to optimize bond strength. Additionally, it may be beneficial to choose heel bead materials that optimize mechanical integrity, while choosing bed glazing materials that optimize sealing between a glass surface and the sash.
p-0037As illustrated in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, the present invention includes a retention member <b>10</b> that is adhered to an inside facing surface <b>11</b> and edge <b>15</b> of the laminated pane/structure <b>12</b> of the insulated glass sash assembly <b>13</b>, which itself is received within the channel <b>14</b> of the window sash or frame member <b>16</b>. In alternative embodiments, retention member <b>10</b> also may be attached to an end edge <b>27</b><i>a </i>of the first or interior pane <b>27</b> of the glass subassembly <b>13</b>. It will be understood that in yet other embodiments, sash or frame member <b>16</b> may instead be a frame of a door panel, a fixed window frame, or other structure surrounding and supporting a glass subassembly. As illustrated in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, the retention member <b>10</b> generally is a lineal member formed with a body <b>20</b> having a substantially L-shaped configuration, including a base portion <b>21</b> and a laterally extending projection or leg <b>22</b> that extends at approximately a 90° angle away from the base portion. Additionally, the retention member could be formed with a substantially U-shaped construction, extending around both facing surfaces <b>11</b>/<b>27</b><i>b </i>of the glass subassembly, as long as it does not interfere with the bed glazing and the engagement/contact between the bed glazing and the glass subassembly. As a further alternative, the retention member could comprise a unitary member attached to the proximal edge <b>15</b> of the glass subassembly <b>13</b>, without a leg portion engaging the inside facing surface <b>11</b> of laminated pane/structure <b>12</b>, and with the base portion of the retention member extending into and being coupled/secured to the frame channel <b>14</b> by the bed glazing <b>31</b> and/or heel bead <b>25</b>.
p-0038Retention member <b>10</b> further may include other features, such as an adhesive channel or recess <b>22</b><i>a </i>formed along the body <b>20</b>, which defines a pocket adapted to receive an adhesive material <b>25</b><i>a </i>therein to adhere the body to the glass subassembly. Additionally, ribs <b>23</b>, or other engaging features that can increase the area of contact of the retention member with the heel bead and/or bed glazing also can be used, which may improve the attachment of retention member <b>10</b> to heel bead <b>25</b> by extending into and engaging the heel bead as shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> so as to substantially secure the retention member into the heel bead and channel. As shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7C-7D</figref>, such ribs are optional and are not necessarily required. In alternative embodiments, surface <b>14</b><i>a </i>may also include ribs serving a similar function. Alternative embodiments in which ribs <b>23</b> mechanically interlock with corresponding ribs formed along surface <b>14</b><i>a </i>of the channel <b>14</b> are also contemplated.
p-0039Retention member <b>10</b> may be produced by extrusion of a polymeric material such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), though other polymeric materials may also be suitable. The extruded retention member stock may be cut into one or more individual sections for each side of glass assembly <b>13</b>, or may be provided in longer sections and notched at corner locations to permit bending around corners. In yet other embodiments, retention member <b>10</b> may be produced as a single component that frames the glass subassembly <b>13</b>, by, for example, injection molding, thermoforming, or other processes suitable for the production of framing members. Retention member <b>10</b> may be installed on the glass subassembly <b>13</b> either before installation of the glass subassembly <b>13</b> onto sash or frame member <b>16</b>, or after.
p-0040As in the case of bed glazing and heel bead adhesives, the choice of adhesive for attachment of the retention member to the insulating glass subassembly also is not particularly limited, provided the adhesive bonds with sufficient strength to at least portions of the associated surfaces of the insulating glass subassembly and to the retention member, and provided that the bonding is long-term, without significant bond deterioration over the life of the window. An adhesive that has been found suitable is VHB transfer adhesive, available from 3M Company, of Maplewood, Minn. The VHB adhesive, which can be laminated to the retention member and is provided with a removable liner to protect the adhesive until the retention member is ready for application to the glazing unit, at which time the liner typically will be removed just prior to application. It also can be useful to apply a primer to the interior side of the glass subassembly and/or other surfaces to which the adhesive materials for attachment of the retention member to the insulating glass subassembly, prior to application of retention member <b>10</b> in order to further improve adhesion of retention member <b>10</b> to the glass. Suitable primers are available from 3M, as well as from other sources. Suitable methods for applying liquids, in particular the primer, to solid surfaces in well-defined strips are also well-known, and include the use of sponges, rollers, and combinations thereof, as well as other like fluid application devices. In other embodiments, retention member <b>10</b> may be attached to subassembly <b>13</b> by a flowable adhesive such as a silicone material of the type used in bed glazing.
p-0041In accordance with the method of the present invention, after manufacture of the insulating glass subassembly <b>13</b>, the retention member <b>10</b> generally can be adhered to the insulating glass subassembly. This can be done off-line or potentially at an outside vendor who is responsible for the manufacture of the insulating glass subassembly. The retention member can be applied using various adhesives or using other known methods for bonding the retention member to the outside edge <b>15</b>, or the outside edge <b>15</b> and the interior proximal edge <b>27</b><i>a </i>of the insulating glass subassembly that is to be received within the channel <b>14</b> of the sash or frame member <b>16</b> or other fenestration frame.
p-0042Methods of assembly of a window sash or frame member assembly or door panel or frame assembly are illustrated in more detail in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6A-6C</figref> and <b>7</b>A-<b>7</b>F. In the method shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6A-6C</figref>, bed glazing material <b>31</b> and the heel bead material <b>25</b> can be applied to surface <b>32</b> prior to placement of subassembly <b>13</b>. Subassembly <b>13</b>, with retention member <b>10</b> pre-installed thereon, can then be placed onto bed glazing material <b>31</b> and heel bead material <b>25</b> and pressed down against edge <b>33</b>. Glass stop <b>43</b> is then installed, using, for example, adhesive or other attachment methods known in the art. If necessary, the adhesive materials are then allowed to cure for a period of time prior to further handling of the assembled unit. Alternative assembly methods, shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7A-7F</figref>, follow the same sequence as that in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6A-6C</figref>, with the exception that retention member <b>10</b> is not pre-installed on subassembly <b>13</b>. Rather, subassembly <b>13</b> is first installed onto surface <b>32</b>, using bed glazing material and heel bead material, as before. Retention member <b>10</b> can then be installed by pressing it into place, so that its lower edge is embedded in heel bead <b>25</b>. Finally, glass stop <b>43</b> is indicated in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6B-6C</figref> and <b>7</b>B-<b>7</b>F. It will be recognized that this method requires that retention member <b>10</b> be sufficiently rigid to penetrate the heel bead during installation.
p-0043In yet another embodiment, in a process called groove or channel glazing, separate glass stop members can be first attached to their respective sash or frame members prior to assembling the sash or frame members into a complete sash. An example of such a process is illustrated in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7F</figref> and described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,167,662, 5,622,017, and 4,615,159, which are incorporated by reference as if set forth fully herein. Bed glazing materials and heel bead materials are then put in place on the appropriate channel surfaces of each of the sash members, after which the sash members can then be slid into place over the edges of glass subassembly <b>13</b>, where their ends meet at the corners to form a complete sash surrounding glass subassembly <b>13</b>. It will be recognized that when this glazing method is used, sash members and glass stop members need not be separate parts, but can be produced as single units having channels for receiving the edges of the glass subassembly, thereby further adding to the strength of the assembled unit in resisting impact from wind borne debris. In addition, in such an embodiment, the retention member generally will be pre-applied to the glass subassembly prior to its insertion into the sash assembly.
p-0044Referring again to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, retention member <b>10</b> itself can be formed in different sizes, thicknesses and/or lengths, with the base or leg portions thereof being of varying lengths depending upon the size and configuration of the channel within the window sash or frame member or door panel or frame member and/or the profile thereof. For example, in one embodiment indicated in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, the base portion can be approximately 0.795-1.00 inches in length while the leg portion can be approximately 0.240-0.250 inches. It will be understood, however, that the leg and base portions can be of greater or less lengths and can be of varying thicknesses as needed to ensure a matched, engaging fit and seating within the channel <b>14</b> without interfering with the proper fit or seating of the insulating glass subassembly within the channel. Portion <b>21</b> of retention member <b>10</b> may extend to corner <b>27</b><i>b </i>of first pane <b>27</b>, but may also extend for shorter distances or longer distances, provided that it extends for a sufficient distance into heel bead <b>25</b> to provide adequate retention strength, in accordance with applicable large and small missile impact and pressure cycling and blast mitigation standards for coastal impact products, and without interference with the contact/engagement between the bed glazing and the glass subassembly, and without requiring additional fasteners to secure the glass subassembly within the frame channel.
p-0045The retention member <b>10</b> further can be formed from a variety of natural, metal, composite or synthetic materials, such as a polyvinyl chloride and glass composites, flexible polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, nylon, elastomeric materials, or other, similar materials and/or combinations thereof that have sufficient strength and mechanical properties regarding tensile strength and rigidity, and further potentially a desired amount of elongation and/or shock absorption or energy dissipation capabilities to transfer tensile loads from impact from the glass subassembly to the frame of the window sash or frame assembly or door panel or frame assembly to enable the glass subassembly withstand impacts, and retain the laminated layer of glass within the channel of the window sash or frame member or door panel or frame member by substantially supporting and retaining the glass subassembly following impact and/or pressure cycling. It may also be useful for retention member <b>10</b> to exhibit elastic or visco-elastic properties that allow it to undergo elongation or deformation of the retention member following impact and/or pressure cycling.
p-0046Referring to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2A-2C</figref>, in another embodiment, retention member <b>200</b> can be formed from a composite, tape-like stock material <b>38</b> having a width W=X+Y, wherein X is the length of projection <b>22</b> and Y is the length of base portion <b>21</b>, and comprising a flexible backing covered on one side by a pressure sensitive adhesive. The choice of backing material is not particularly limited, provided that it is sufficiently flexible to be formed into the shape of retention member <b>200</b> and able to stretch while absorbing energy during impact while further exhibiting sufficient tensile strength to withstand the impact and pressure cycling loads to which it will be subjected. Particularly useful backing materials are those containing fiberglass fabric or similar fibrous fabric materials, which may be either woven or non-woven. In addition, various sheet or film materials may also be useful. Other fabrics, either woven or non-woven, may also be useful.
p-0047Referring to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2B and 2C</figref>, the retention member <b>200</b> comprises composite member <b>38</b> that can include a flexible backing <b>210</b> (<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2C</figref>) with adhesive layer <b>220</b> attached thereto. Backing layer <b>210</b> may be a fabric, such as a fiberglass or a polymeric fabric, either woven or nonwoven. In some embodiments, backing layer <b>210</b> may be a fiberglass screen material. In yet other embodiments, backing layer <b>210</b> may be a film or other flexible sheet material. When backing layer <b>210</b> is a film or sheet material, it can comprise a polymeric material reinforced with fibers or other known reinforcement materials. While it is useful for backing <b>210</b> to be sufficiently flexible to be easily folded into place during installation on the glass subassembly, it may also be useful in other embodiments for backing <b>210</b> to soften at elevated temperatures, so that it can be heated and pre-folded prior to installation.
p-0048Retention member <b>200</b> is adhesively bonded, at a first edge, to inside surface <b>11</b> (<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2B</figref>) of laminated panel <b>12</b>, and bonded at a second edge to heel bead <b>25</b>. Bonding of the retention member <b>200</b> to heel bead <b>25</b> can be enhanced by embedding a portion of it into heel bead <b>25</b>, as shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2B</figref>. Adhesive layer material, an acrylic, or other similar adhesive or bonding material <b>220</b> (<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2C</figref>) may be a pressure sensitive adhesive material such as 3M VHB adhesive. This adhesive layer can be of various thicknesses, varying the thickness of the adhesive layer may provide more flexibility or cushioning, which could increase the time duration of the energy transfer, thus reducing the load transferred, while experiencing impact or pressure cycling loads. In some embodiments, a fabric backing may be at least partially embedded in the adhesive layer.
p-0049The ability of glass subassembly <b>13</b> (<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2B</figref>) to withstand impact loading can be enhanced by providing a more resilient, that is to say more robust, coupling between subassembly <b>13</b> and sash <b>16</b>. In some embodiments, it may be useful to increase the flexibility of this coupling by reducing the thickness and elastic moduli of backing material <b>210</b> used in the retention member. In addition, in some embodiments the strength of the coupling between subassembly <b>13</b> and sash <b>16</b> also may be affected by bonding of retention member <b>200</b> to edges <b>15</b> and/or <b>27</b><i>a </i>of the glass subassembly <b>13</b>, and possibly to edge <b>26</b><i>a </i>of the spacer <b>26</b>, such as with a layer of an adhesive material. As a result, resistance to impact or blasts may be enhanced by bonding retention member <b>200</b> to one or all of edges <b>15</b>, <b>27</b><i>a </i>and <b>26</b><i>a</i>, so as to provide increased surface area control and coupling between the retention member and the components of the glass subassembly, thereby allowing enhanced engagement and/or grip onto subassembly <b>13</b> during impact or blasts.
p-0050In yet another embodiment, illustrated in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3A and 3B</figref>, retention member may comprise a composite structure <b>300</b> that can include a backing layer <b>310</b> (<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3B</figref>) with adhesive <b>320</b> adhesively bonded thereto. Backing <b>310</b> may comprise a fabric or other fibrous material contained in a polymeric matrix and adhesive layer <b>320</b> may be a pressure sensitive adhesive of the general type conventionally used in pressure sensitive adhesive tapes. Alternatively, adhesive layer <b>320</b> may be a heat activated adhesive. In yet other embodiments, backing <b>310</b> may be a fabric, either woven or nonwoven, and adhesive layer <b>320</b> may be an adhesive material that at least partially penetrates layer <b>320</b> while in addition providing an adhesive layer. Other backings and adhesive layers that meet the requirements for a retention member will be apparent to one skilled in the art.
p-0051In yet another embodiment, a flexible retention member may be supplied without adhesive, and an adhesive layer may be applied to a suitable edge portion of surface <b>11</b> prior to application of the flexible retention member. Optionally, adhesive may also be applied to edge surfaces <b>15</b> and <b>27</b><i>a </i>prior to application of the flexible retention member, and further can be applied to the edge <b>26</b><i>a </i>of spacer <b>26</b> to further enhance the surface contact and grip of the retention member. The applied adhesive may, in some embodiments, be an adhesive such as 3M VHB transfer adhesive. In other embodiments, the adhesive may be a flowable adhesive such as silicone RTV adhesive, or a heat activated adhesive such as a hot melt adhesive. Still further, the adhesive used for attachment of the retention member could be applied to the glass subassembly, for example, by skim coating the surfaces of the glass subassembly with an adhesive, such as a silicone adhesive, and thereafter applying the tape material of the retention member over the adhesive layer to adhere it to the glass subassembly.
p-0052Referring to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4A</figref>, in yet another embodiment, retention member can comprise a reinforcing or fibrous tape material <b>38</b>, is bonded to inside surface <b>11</b> of subassembly <b>13</b> and to sash wall <b>14</b><i>a </i>such as by an adhesive layer <b>39</b><i>a</i>. The retention member <b>38</b> may be rigid or flexible. When the retention member is rigid, it can enhance retention of subassembly <b>13</b> in sash or frame assembly or door panel or frame assembly <b>16</b>, in the manner previously described for other embodiments. When the retention member is flexible, it may allow considerable movement of subassembly <b>13</b> relative to sash or frame assembly or door panel or frame assembly <b>16</b>. This may be useful in controlling the manner in which energy is transferred from the impacting debris to the window unit by increasing the time duration of the energy transfer, thus reducing the peak load transferred.
p-0053In another alternative embodiment, shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4B</figref>, surface <b>14</b><i>a </i>of the channel <b>14</b> of the sash or frame assembly or door panel or frame assembly also may be oriented at an angle that improves the coupling between subassembly <b>13</b> and the sash by placing the tape material retention member <b>38</b> with its base extending along and adhered to the angled surface <b>14</b><i>a</i>, such as with an adhesive <b>39</b><i>a</i>. Such a mounting arrangement aligns the retention member in a more tensile loading condition during impact, and further places the adhesive bond <b>39</b><i>a </i>between the tape material retention member <b>38</b> and surface <b>14</b><i>a </i>in shear loading condition rather than in a peeling mode during such impact.
p-0054<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5A and 5B</figref> illustrate still a further embodiment of the present invention, wherein the retention member <b>400</b> is formed as a flexible or “living” hinge. In this embodiment, as illustrated in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5A</figref>, the retention member <b>400</b> includes a leg or body portion <b>40</b> formed with or attached to the extruded profile of the window sash or frame member <b>16</b> or door panel or frame member by a flexible hinge <b>41</b> formed between the leg <b>40</b> of the retention member and the extruded profile of the window sash or frame member or door panel or frame member, as will be understood those skilled in the art. As additionally illustrated in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5A</figref>, a tape material <b>42</b> generally will be applied to the body <b>40</b>A in an in-line position. The tape material <b>42</b> in this embodiment generally can comprise a VHB type transfer adhesive or other suitable adhesive-backed tape, and can include adhesive material applied to both sides of the tape. The tape material further generally will be applied to the leg of the retention member <b>40</b> after extrusion of the window sash or frame member or door panel or frame member profile, and prior to installation of the interior sash component <b>43</b> of the window sash or frame member or door panel or frame member, in accordance with the various methods of assembly of a window sash or frame assembly or door panel or frame assembly discussed herein. As <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5B</figref> illustrates, the tape material <b>42</b> will engage the inside surface <b>11</b> of the laminated glass pane/structure <b>12</b> of the insulating glass subassembly <b>13</b> when folded over into a substantially flat lying attitude against the inside surface of the laminated glass pane/structure. Typically, the leg will be folded over approximately 90° to provide the desired flat lying, in-line engagement with the inside surface of the laminated glass pane/structure.
p-0055An example of a general application process for applying a retention member <b>10</b> to an insulating glass subassembly <b>13</b>, which lends itself to both manual application and machine application, is shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8A</figref>. Referring to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8A</figref>, the retention member <b>10</b>, such as a fibrous tape, PVC strip or similar material typically having an adhesive material applied to an inside surface thereof is first wrapped around and adhered to the edge of the glass subassembly in the manner shown. Positioning of the retention member relative to the glass subassembly can be controlled by aligning a bottom edge <b>45</b> of the retention member with a bottom surface <b>44</b> of the glass subassembly. While it is convenient to wrap the retention member around the glass subassembly as a single strip, it is also possible to apply the retention member in sections. For example, separate sections could be applied to each side of the glass subassembly. Once the retention member has been adhered to the glass subassembly, notches <b>46</b> can be cut in tabs <b>47</b>, <b>48</b>, <b>49</b> and <b>50</b>, to produce mitered corners when the tabs are folded down, as indicated along lines <b>51</b>, in the directions shown by arrows <b>52</b>, onto the glass subassembly. Once the tabs are folded down and pressed in place to produce an adhesive bond, the glass subassembly can be handled and moved, for, example, to an assembly station for installation in a window sash or frame assembly or door panel or frame assembly.
p-0056It will be recognized that the general process portrayed in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8A</figref> lends itself to many possible variations, including both manual and machine application. For example, notches <b>46</b> could be pre-cut, before wrapping onto the glass subassembly <b>13</b>, using suitable methods for properly locating the notches prior to wrapping. In addition, while shaping the notches to provide miter cuts generally provides a smooth surface for the folded over tabs, other notches may be used, where, for example, overlapping of the folded over tabs, or gaps in the tabs, are permissible. Additionally, as indicated in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8B</figref>, the retention member material <b>10</b> used for wrapping about the glass subassembly could be provided with a series of perforations, holes, slits or other, similar openings or passages <b>54</b> therethrough, or could be a mesh material defining such perforations or passages. The perforations or passages can enable an adhesive material, such as the bed glazing material <b>31</b>, heel bead <b>25</b>, or other adhesive material, to flow or pass through the retention member to facilitate engagement and adherence of the adhesive of the retention member to the glass subassembly and to increase the engagement and encapsulation of the retention member by this adhesive material.
p-0057Machine wrapping of the retention member <b>10</b> onto the edge of insulating glass subassembly <b>13</b> can be done in a variety of known ways. For example, tape dispensing heads that carry a roll of the material to be dispensed, remove any protective liner therefrom, position the dispensed material, and press it into place along the edge of insulated glass assembly <b>13</b>, are well known to those skilled in the art. Positioning and movement of the dispensing head relative to insulating glass subassembly <b>13</b> can be done in a variety of ways, some involving movement of the dispensing head relative to insulating glass subassembly <b>13</b>, and, alternatively, movement of insulating glass subassembly <b>13</b> relative to the dispensing head. Devices such as vacuum chucks for holding the insulating glass subassembly <b>13</b> while wrapping are well known. Likewise, cutting of the tape material of the retention member to free the dispensing head from the insulating glass subassembly <b>13</b> once wrapping is complete can be done in a variety of known ways. In addition, it may be convenient, in some instances, to pre-cut the retention member to a suitable predetermined length prior to wrapping. Folding and pressing of tabs <b>47</b>-<b>50</b> can also be done in a variety of known ways, involving, for example, use of one or more rollers to press the tabs into place, use of flat bending and pressing devices, or combinations thereof.
p-0058It also will be appreciated that while the present embodiment has been applied to rectangular windows, the same general scheme can also be adapted to apply to other shapes. In addition, while the present embodiment portrays the retention member as a continuous strip, there may be instances wherein a series of separate strips may be used. For example, windows involving circular or other curved shapes may require that the retention member be provided in short strips, or in longer strips with multiple notches of suitable shape.
p-0059Control of the steps in the general process of applying the retention member to the insulating glass subassembly <b>13</b> may be performed with a range of different levels of mechanization, automation, and integration. For example, the various steps in the process may be performed by separate powered tools designed specifically for each task but controlled manually at each step. Alternatively, the entire process may be controlled electromechanically, using switches, sensors, and other electrical devices to control the entire operation without operator intervention. Yet another level of control can be achieved by use of a digital system, which would enable the system to utilize input to a computer.
p-0060Coastal impact window products with insulated window subassemblies including laminated glass layers formed utilizing the retention method and member according to the principles of the present invention have been found to provide mechanical properties that meet or exceed the glazed opening protection requirements of large and small missile impact and pressure cycling tests as set forth in accordance with ASTM E1886 and ASTM E1996 standards, and TAS 201, 202 and 203 (High-Velocity Hurricane Zones—Impact Tests for Wind-Borne Debris) building requirements and AAMA 506 standards. In addition, the use of the retention member can assist in providing additional blast mitigation protections in accordance with ASTMF 1642, GSA T501, AAMA 510, and UFC 4-010 standards, and for security applications to aid in the retention of the laminated glass layer, and the insulating glass subassembly generally, within the window sash or frame assembly or door panel or frame assembly after the glass materials have become broken or cracked and/or following impact of debris thereagainst.
p-0061Testing on such products was conducted with a sampling of window units including units described in the above-discussed configurations of the present invention. The windows were subjected to the large and small missile impact and pressure cycling test requirements as set forth in accordance with ASTM E1886 and ASTM E1996 standards, and TAS 201, 202 and 203 (High-Velocity Hurricane Zones—Impact Tests for Wind-Borne Debris) building requirements and AAMA 506 standards. Test results indicated that the use of the retention members described provided enhanced protection against impact and pressure cycling so as to meet or exceed required coastal impact product standards.
p-0062Glass stops can also play a role in enhancing the retention of glass subassemblies in sashes or frames. <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 9A-9D</figref> illustrate an alternative embodiment of the present invention, in which the retention member <b>10</b> can be used in conjunction with added coupling of interior glass stop <b>60</b> to a sash or frame. Such an interior glass stop <b>60</b> generally can comprise a vinyl extrusion or similarly formed element <b>61</b> that typically can be covered with a veneer wrap <b>62</b>, such as thin wood veneer or other similar wrapping. <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 9A-9C</figref> illustrate various configurations for coupling of the interior glass stop <b>60</b>, with each of the varying configurations generally including a body portion <b>63</b> adapted to engage and connect to the interior sash or door panel component <b>93</b> for a window sash or frame assembly or door panel or frame assembly. At least one barbed spline <b>64</b>-<b>74</b> generally will be formed along a proximal side of the body of the interior glass stop, and, as illustrated in the drawings, generally can be rolled or otherwise inserted into locking engagement with a kerf <b>66</b> of the interior sash or door panel component <b>93</b>.
p-0063As shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 9A-9C</figref>, the reinforcing member <b>90</b> can be adhered to the interior surface <b>11</b> of the laminated glass structure of the insulating glass subassembly <b>13</b>, and, optionally, to edge <b>15</b> of second pane <b>12</b><i>b</i>, as in the previously disclosed embodiments. Also as in previous embodiments, member <b>90</b> extends into heel bead <b>25</b>. While any of the previously disclosed retention members may be used in this embodiment, a particularly useful retention member can include a double-sided tape including a substrate material such as a reinforced fiber, woven or non-woven cloth material or reinforcing tape material having an adhesive material applied to both sides. For example, the retention member could include a VHB transfer adhesive or equivalent alternative adhesive material such as supplied by 3M Corporation. As in previously disclosed embodiments, the retention member <b>90</b> helps anchor the insulating glass subassembly to the window sash or frame member or door panel or frame member by being embedded in and adhesively bonding to heel bead <b>25</b>.
p-0064Looking at <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9A</figref>, which illustrates in more detail a first embodiment of the combined retention member <b>10</b> and interior glass stop <b>60</b>, in which the retention member is applied between the interior surface <b>11</b> of the insulating glass subassembly and lower surface <b>67</b> of the body of the interior glass stop. In this embodiment, glass stop <b>60</b> further includes barbed spline <b>64</b> that tightly engages kerf <b>66</b> in door panel or frame component <b>93</b> to further retain both glass stop <b>60</b> as well as glazing unit <b>13</b>. Such an embodiment can be used in conventional window or door applications to provide an enhanced interior glass stop for the glass subassembly. Additional embodiments of the interior glass stop <b>60</b>′ and <b>60</b>″ are further illustrated in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 9B and 9C</figref>, and can have particular application for use in coastal impact products, due to the additional coupling to heel bead <b>25</b>. In the embodiment shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9B</figref>, the extruded body of the interior glass stop <b>60</b>′ further includes leg <b>68</b> that extends downwardly from the lower surface <b>67</b> of the body <b>63</b>, along the channel <b>14</b> and generally terminates in a hooked lower end <b>69</b>, which is embedded in heel bead <b>25</b>.
p-0065Alternatively, as indicated in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9C</figref>, the interior glass stop <b>60</b>″ can be formed with a two-piece structure, including a substantially solid body <b>63</b>″, and a separate connector <b>70</b> that attaches thereto and includes a projecting portion <b>69</b> that extends into heel bead <b>25</b>, and that further includes barbed spline <b>64</b> that secures the body to door panel or frame component <b>93</b>. The connector <b>70</b> can be extruded, stamped or otherwise formed from various materials, including metal, composite, or synthetic materials, and generally will include a horizontally extending base <b>71</b>, with the first upstanding barbed spline <b>72</b> that engages a kerf <b>73</b> formed in the body <b>63</b>″. A second, downwardly extending barbed spline <b>74</b> engages the kerf <b>66</b> formed in the interior sash component, and further includes an upwardly projecting leg <b>75</b> having an inwardly directed hook projection, indicated at <b>76</b>, that engages a slot or kerf <b>77</b> formed along a rearward side of the body <b>63</b>″ of the interior glass stop to help further secure and connect the connector <b>70</b> to the body of the interior glass stop <b>60</b>″. In addition, leg <b>78</b> extends downwardly from the base <b>71</b> and terminates in a substantially hooked or barbed lower end <b>79</b>, which is embedded in heel bead <b>25</b>.
p-0066The combination of the retention member <b>10</b> and interior glass stop <b>60</b>′ can be assembled to form a window sash or frame assembly or door panel or frame assembly, generally by first applying the retention member, such as using one of the methodologies as discussed above, for example following the process steps as outlined in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6A</figref> and/or <b>6</b>B. Thereafter, the interior glass stop can be mounted to the window sash or frame assembly or door panel or frame assembly by placing the body of the interior glass stop over the interior surface of the glass subassembly and urging the barbed spline thereof into the kerf of the interior sash component. As further indicated in the embodiment shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9B</figref>, the leg of the interior glass stop likewise will be urged downwardly, through the channel <b>14</b> between the glass edge and the interior sash component and/or sash or frame member <b>16</b> or door panel or frame member, with the leg projecting into and becoming at least partially enveloped by the heel bead <b>25</b> of silicone sealant. Once the sealant has cured, the glass stop will be further rigidly tied to the glass subassembly and to the window sash or frame member <b>16</b> and/or interior sash component. The further inclusion of the additional leg with such an interior glass stop profile can additionally help reduce or possibly eliminate the requirement for backfilling the entire cavity between the glass edge and interior sash component and can further provide an additional benefit of performing the function of glass spacers or setting blocks.
p-0067In yet other embodiments, such as shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10A-10C</figref> a glass stop that is sufficiently strongly coupled to the frame or sash may provide sufficient retention of the glass subassembly in the frame or sash, without the need for additional retention members. <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10A and 10B</figref> illustrate alternative constructions of the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10A-10C</figref>, wherein a adhesive member <b>10</b>′ is used in conjunction with varying configurations of an interior glass stop <b>60</b>-<b>60</b>′ for windows or patio doors. For example, <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9A</figref> illustrates the use of adhesive member <b>10</b>′ with the interior glass stop <b>60</b> illustrated in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9A</figref> as including an extruded body <b>63</b>, veneer wrap <b>62</b> and a barbed spline <b>64</b> engaging the interior sash component. <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10B</figref> illustrates the use of the shortened retention member <b>10</b>′ with the construction of the interior glass stop <b>60</b>′ as shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9B</figref>, including an additional downwardly projecting leg <b>68</b>. In the constructions illustrated in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10A-10C</figref>, the adhesive member <b>10</b>′ generally can comprise a tape material, such as a VHB tape or similar adhesive-backed tape material. The adhesive member in this embodiment further generally will be of a reduced length so as to extend only along a portion of the inside surface <b>11</b> of the insulating glass subassembly <b>13</b>, shown as being located between the inside surface <b>11</b> of the insulating glass subassembly <b>13</b> and the lower surface <b>67</b> of the body <b>61</b> of the interior glass stop <b>60</b>-<b>60</b>′.
p-0068As therefore indicated in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10A-10C</figref>, the tape material of the adhesive member will not extend about the corner and outside edge <b>15</b> of the insulating glass subassembly. Thus, the amount of tape material utilized for the shortened retention member <b>10</b>′ can be reduced while still facilitating the secure seating and mounting of the insulating glass subassembly between the interior glass stop and the window sash or frame member or door panel or frame member, without necessarily requiring the use of additional exposed fasteners such as nails or staples; and which generally meets large and small missile impact and pressure cycling test requirements for coastal impact products, as well as providing enhanced security and resistance to blast migration of the laminated glass structure of the insulating glass subassembly following impact and/or cracking or breaking of such glass materials.
p-0069The foregoing description generally illustrates and describes various embodiments of the present invention. It will, however, be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made to the above-discussed construction of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as disclosed herein, and that it is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as being illustrative, and not to be taken in a limiting sense. Furthermore, the scope of the present disclosure shall be construed to cover various modifications, combinations, additions, alterations, etc., above and to the above-described embodiments, which shall be considered to be within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, various features and characteristics of the present invention as discussed herein may be selectively interchanged and applied to other illustrated and non-illustrated embodiments of the invention, and numerous variations, modifications, and additions further can be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as set forth in the appended claims.
Contents6
20 sheets
Sheet 1 Sheet 2 Sheet 3 Sheet 4 Sheet 5 Sheet 6 Sheet 7 Sheet 8 Sheet 9 Sheet 10 Sheet 11 Sheet 12 Sheet 13 Sheet 14 Sheet 15 Sheet 16 Sheet 17 Sheet 18 Sheet 19 Sheet 20
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10 members in 2 offices; this record represents the family
Priority claims2
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56 transactions on the USPTO file
Allowed after 2 non-final rejections.
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- Final rejections
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- RCEs
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4 legal events, as the office reported them to INPADOC
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Numbers
- Publication
- 20130000232
- Application
- 13535545
Titles
- English
- LAMINATED GLASS RETENTION SYSTEM
Patent term adjustment
- A delay
- +284 daysthe office missed an examination deadline
- B delay
- +114 dayspendency past three years
- Net adjustment
- 398 days
Classification
- CPC, 9
- B32B17/10055
- E06B1/40
- B32B17/10293
- E06B3/5821
- Y10T29/49826
- E06B3/5814
- E06B3/64
- E06B3/5892
- E06B3/06
- IPC, 6
- B23P11 00
- E04H9 14
- B32B17 00
- E04C2 22
- E04C2 38
- E06B5 00