Press-fit storm window
Described are a new type of storm windows, along with an easy way (and less expensive) of installing the press-fit storm window, on existing frames or windows, without the hassle and expense of replacing the whole window (to save time, cost, and inconvenience), to increase R-value (insulation efficiency) for the windows (i.e. reduce energy waste). This relates to the construction and installation and use of easily installed low cost interior or exterior storm windows, which are attractive and effective in reducing heat and noise transmission. Different approaches and variations to implement this are shown here.
1. A storm window assembly for placement as a second window in a window frame of a building that also carries a primary window, the storm window assembly comprising:
a transparent panel; and
one or more pliable gaskets made from a single material, at least one of the gaskets including a flexible bulb portion that is substantially circular and annular in cross section, and the flexible bulb portion structured to deform when pressure is applied, the one or more pliable gaskets also including a groove portion having a groove defined between a first leg extension and a second leg extension, the first and second leg extensions extending outward from an outside perimeter surface of the flexible bulb portion, and the groove structured to accept an edge region of the panel between the first and second leg extensions;
wherein the one or more pliable gaskets are structured to be inserted into and have direct contact with the window frame, the one or more pliable gaskets additionally structured to deform to frictionally hold the system in the window frame of the building when the system is compress-fit into the window frame adjacent to the primary window.
2. The system as recited in claim 1 , wherein the panel is made of glass.
3. The system as recited in claim 1 , wherein the panel is made of acrylic glass.
4. The system as recited in claim 1 , wherein the one or more pliable gaskets cover the entire perimeter of the panel.
5. The system as recited in claim 1 , wherein a portion of the perimeter of the panel is not covered by the one or more pliable gaskets.
6. The system as recited in claim 1 , wherein the storm window system is installed as an interior storm window.
7. The system as recited in claim 1 , wherein the storm window system is installed as an exterior storm widow.
8. The system as recited in claim 1 , wherein the transparent panel insulates against heat transfer.
9. The system as recited in claim 1 , wherein the transparent panel insulates against sound.
10. The system as recited in claim 1 , wherein the one or more pliable gaskets are formed of a material that does not substantially compress under pressure.
11. The system as recited in claim 10 , wherein the shape of at least one of the flexible bulb portions of the one or more pliable gaskets readily deforms under pressure.