Static structures (e.g. – buildings) – Window or window sash – sill – mullion – or glazing – Having a drain or vent
Patent
1997-04-17
1998-10-20
Friedman, Carl D.
Static structures (e.g., buildings)
Window or window sash, sill, mullion, or glazing
Having a drain or vent
5220458, 5220457, 52762, E06B 300
Patent
active
058229310
DESCRIPTION:
BRIEF SUMMARY
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to fastening methods and apparatus and more particularly, to a method and apparatus suitable for extending the depth of a frame.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
A standard depth for window assemblies is approximately three and one-half inches. This relatively standard depth lends itself well to installation of window assemblies in buildings having wall supporting frames built with two by four studs, because any openings for windows are framed by studs that are three and one-half inches deep. On the other hand, this relatively standard depth does not lend itself particularly well to installation in buildings having wall supporting frames built with two by six studs, because any openings for windows are framed by studs that are five and one-half inches deep. Nonetheless, economies of scale often discourage the production of five and one-half inch deep window assemblies, perhaps because the bulk of demand for windows to date has been in connection with two by four construction. Thus, a need exists to facilitate installation of three and one-half inch deep window assemblies into openings framed by five and one-half inch studs or jambs in a manner that is attractive and cost effective.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides an assembly for extending the effective depth of a frame to be secured within an opening having a depth greater than that of the frame itself. In this context, "depth" is measured in a direction perpendicular from a plane defined by the frame or matter retained within the frame. A channel is associated with each segment of the frame and opens in the direction in which added frame depth is desired. Each channel has a similar, half-dovetail profile. A frame extending member is associated with each channel. Each frame extending member has a profile that includes a first portion which is rotatable into engagement with a respective channel, and a second portion which extends in the desired direction when the first portion is retained within the channel.
As applied to a rectangular window frame, the present invention provides a channel extending along substantially the entire length of each of two vertical frame segments, and a channel extending along each of two horizontal frame segments and between the two vertical channels and their associated structure. The first and second portions on a pair of vertical extension members extend substantially the entire length of their corresponding vertical channels. The first portions on a pair of horizontal extension members extend the distance between the vertical channels and their associated structure, and the second portions extend the distance between the vertical extension members.
After the vertical extension members are manipulated into engagement with their respective channels, the horizontal extension members are then manipulated into engagement with their respective channels. The engaged horizontal extension members extend between the vertical extension members and thereby prevent the vertical extension members from rotating out of engagement with their respective channels. In one embodiment, the ends of the horizontal members snap into place beyond shoulders formed near the ends of the vertical members to secure the extension members relative to the frame and one another. In another embodiment, fasteners extend through the vertical extension members and into the horizontal extension members to similarly hold the horizontal extension members in place. In either case, the present invention facilitates construction of a sturdy and attractive frame extending structure in a manner that requires few fasteners and consumes little time.
The channel defining structure may be clipped or integrally joined to the frame members to eliminate the need to drive any fasteners into the frame. The elimination of such fasteners is particularly advantageous in cases where the frame is made of plastic or some other material not necessarily conducive to receiving screws or nails. These advantages
REFERENCES:
patent: 4328644 (1982-05-01), Scott et al.
patent: 5555684 (1996-09-01), Galowitz et al.
Bruchu Todd W.
Galowitz Dennis A.
Andersen Corporation
Edwards W. Glenn
Friedman Carl D.
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