Movable or removable closures – Removable closure
Utility Patent
1999-03-09
2001-01-02
Stodola, Daniel P. (Department: 3634)
Movable or removable closures
Removable closure
C049S057000, C052S202000
Utility Patent
active
06167656
ABSTRACT:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to windows and window assemblies, and, more particularly, to security window assemblies.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Every year, millions of residential break-ins and burglaries occur in the United States. In selecting a point of entry for a residential break-in, burglars often select an entry point which is free from the view of the street and unlikely to be noticed by a person in the home. Obviously, windows, and especially basement windows are prime targets for burglars.
There are many deterrents to burglary on the market. These include sophisticated electronic alarm devices and security systems, motion detectors, and the like. Physical barriers to intruders are also well known, such as fences, window bars, shutters and the like. A variety of locking devices for doors and windows are also well known.
One known barrier to intrusion through a basement window are so-called “glass-block” windows. These windows are made of heavy gauge glass blocks, fused together to form a solid barrier. Some glass-block window assemblies include small vents, whereas others do not. The vents are large enough for ventilation, but too small for entry or even for transferring objects into or out of a basement. Glass-block assemblies also offer privacy in that an outsider cannot see through them.
Despite the advantages of glass-blocks, these assemblies offer several disadvantages. First, homeowners often desire to transfer objects into and out of their basements via basement windows, as this is often much easier, safer and cleaner than bringing items through the house itself and down the basement stairs. This is especially true for home craftsmen, who wish to bring lumber and supplies into a basement workshop. Unfortunately, transfer is impossible through glass-block windows. Glass-block windows can also be dangerous in the event of an emergency. It is impossible to escape a basement having glass block windows in the event of a fire or should residents flee to the basement in the event of an aboveground break-in. Finally, the vents in glass-block windows are usually too small to properly ventilate a room, especially in unusual circumstances such as a carbon monoxide leak, or for purposes of painting or home-craftsman furniture finishing, etc.
Thus, it is seen that there is a need for a new security window assembly that overcomes the disadvantages of glass-block and other security windows. An ideal security window would offer as much if not more security than traditional glass-block assemblies and yet also offer ventilation and escape capability when needed.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The invention broadly comprises a security window assembly for a structure, comprising a top member having an outwardly-facing surface and an inwardly-facing surface, the top member having a stepped-groove extending from the inwardly-facing surface, the stepped-groove having at least a first depth and a second depth extending deeper than the first depth, a first side member secured to the top member, a second side member secured to the top member, a bottom member secured to the first and second side members, the bottom member having an outwardly-facing surface and an inwardly-facing surface, the bottom member having a groove extending from the inwardly-facing surface, the groove arranged in alignment with the first depth groove of the stepped-groove of the top member, a pane member operatively arranged to be secured within the first depth groove of the stepped-groove of the top member and the groove of the bottom member, and, clamping means operatively arranged to hold the pane member securely within the first depth groove of the stepped groove of the top member and the groove of the bottom member, the clamping means accessible only from inside of the structure.
A primary object of the invention is to provide a security window assembly for a structure which provides both security against intruders and yet capability of fast and easy escape from within when necessary.
Another object of the invention is to provide a security window assembly for a structure which permits adequate ventilation of the room in which the window assembly is installed when desired.
A further object of the invention is to provide a security window assembly for a structure which can be easily installed over existing non-security window assemblies, or, alternatively, be installed in a newly constructed building or structure.
These and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art from the following detailed description of the invention in view of the drawings and appended claims.
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Devlin Anthony
DiNoto Mark J.
Fortress Security Windows Inc.
Simpson, Simpson & Snyder, L.L.P.
Stodola Daniel P.
Thompson Hugh B.
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