Abstract:
A curtain wall (ACM) system has vertical mullions and horizontal supports which provide a dry as well as a structural system for non-sequential construction of curtain wall exteriors. Internal gutters offer a failsafe moisture proof system. The horizontal and vertical framework members may be mounted in the reverse orientation for special exterior wall configurations. Individual panels can be replaced without sealants or tear down of neighboring panels. A face support for the thin ACM panels is provided. Thermal expansion is addressed with a floating panel on a track design.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCED PATENTS 
     This application is a continuation in part of U.S. app. Ser. No. 09/415,947 filed Oct. 8, 1999, now abandoned. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of Invention 
     The present invention relates to building exteriors, and interior wall and ceiling covering using curtain wall systems; said systems having box top shaped composite panels hung on the exterior building sheathing or other framework. 
     2. Background of the Invention 
     There are two basic type of systems for the curtain wall aluminum composite material (ACM) market. They are a wet and a dry system. A wet system uses a sealant as its primary seal against moisture. A dry system uses a gasket as its primary seal against moisture. 
     Most patented curtain wall systems pertain to flat glass panel type curtain wall panels. A brief summary of this flat glass panel support structure art follows below. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 3,548,558 (1970) to Grossman discloses a mullion system (vertical members between window lights) for a curtain wall exterior. An anchor 101 supports a plate which supports a mullion column having segments 107. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 3,978,629 (1976) to Echols Sr. discloses a glass panel thermal barrier vertical mullion. Each mullion has an exterior member with a track for maintenance conveyances and has an interior metal member, and has a insulating foam layer therebetween. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,015,390 (1977) to Howorth discloses a glazing structure for a glass panel/curtain wall building. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,121,396 (1978) to Oogami et al. discloses a curtain wall frame structure having channel crossings with four integral legs and backup bars. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,418,506 (1983) to Weber et al. discloses a curtain wall frame structure adding a insulating separator (56) and an insulated bolt to a known frame structure for insulation. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,471,584 (1984) to Dietrich discloses a skylight system with a unique support structure to support a curtain wall flat. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,841,700 (1989) to Matthews discloses a two-piece mullion frame for reducing the face dimension of an aluminum frame. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,996,809 (1991) to Beard discloses a flat panel skylight support frame having built in condensate gutters. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,065,557 (1991) to Laplante et al. discloses a dry gasket seal frame structure for a curtain wall which uses a flat curtain wall panel having inner and outer panel faces, and a spaced apart vertical edge therebetween. A panel can be replaced without having to dismantle any portion of the curtain wall other than the damaged panel. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,199,236 (1993) to Allen discloses a flush appearance glass panel frame structure. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,493,831 (1996) to Jansson discloses a glass panel building support frame presenting a sealed glaze edge between the glass panels. 
     As Laplante et al. teaches it is advantageous to be able to replace a damaged curtain wall panel using a dry seal, and further advantageous to be able to leave the horizontal and vertical support channels in place for the replacement. The present invention meets these needs in a dry ACM system. 
     One patented ACM system is U.S. Pat. No. 4,344,267 (1982) to Sukolics which discloses a curtain wall frame structure which allows thermal expansion of the panels to be absorbed by the joints. A vertical channel has a pair of pivotable arms to receive the sides of adjoining panels. In the present invention the exact same ACM may be used. Sukolics requires that a sheathing be installed over the support studs of the building. Then Sukolics&#39; thin and relatively weak, non-structural mullions and horizontal supports can be mounted in a non-sequential (also called non-directional) fashion. This non-sequential erection fashion is preferred over sequential systems. Sequential systems require starting construction at the bottom of a building and progressing left to right, one row at a time, building one row on top of a lower row. Sukolics enables wall construction from the top down which is how rain hits the building during construction. Therefore, using Sukolics&#39; system a builder can erect the frame, complete the roof, then construct the curtain walls from the top down to minimize rain damage to the exposed sheathing of the building. 
     The present invention provides the same non-sequential method for construction; additionally adding structural mullions and horizontal supports thereby allowing direct fastening to the frame and eliminating the sheathing if desired. 
     The present invention provides for thermal expansion by means of using floating curtain wall members which expand and contract in their mounting tracks located in the vertical mullions and horizontal supports. 
     Another prior art reference is a patent pending curtain wall apparatus trademarked RRD200™ by Elward Systems Corporation of Denver, Colo. A combination horizontal support and perimeter extrusion (corner brace) is used, made of aluminum. The top and one side of the curtain wall is firmly bolted to the building. Thus, no “flotation” of the curtain wall exists on an X-Y frame structure as is the case in the present invention. Flotation reduces stresses on the curtain wall panels during thermal and/or stresses on the curtain wall panels setting movement of the building. 
     Panel installation begins at the bottom with panels inter-leaving at the sides utilizing “male/female” joinery working left to right. Installation continues by stacking the next row on top of the first row and continuing the left to right sequence. Therefore, an individual panel cannot be removed from the center of the wall without removing adjacent panels. 
     While it is basically a “dry” system because of the use of wiper gaskets, exposed sealant is used in the 4-way intersections due to the male/female differences of the perimeter extrusions. 
     Rout and return and curtain face support is provided by the perimeter extrusions. The ACM panels are fabricated utilizing known rout and return methodology. The various perimeter extrusions for the curtain wall panels are four different extrusions making the panel “handed”. The present invention uses panels which are symmetrical, facilitating installation. 
     The system does include a gutter, but it is not continuous and not part of a sub-system, and the gutter only exists on the horizontal member. Weep holes in the horizontal member allow water to flow out and over the curtain wall panels. No integrated X-Y gutter system exists. 
     The system requires 16-guage (non-standard) studs at precise locations for vertical attachment to the structure, thereby greatly adding to the building cost compared to the present invention. The system does not allow for a “jointless” appearance because it doesn&#39;t have a face cap that can be flushed or recessed from the face of the panel. The system does not allow for multiple “joint” colors. 
     Perimeter extrusions are not the same depth, thus requiring complex shimming; sequential, non-subsystem installation does not allow for integrated three dimensional panels to be incorporated within the system (i.e. signage or column covers, or accent bands that are not flat). The system does not allow for three dimensional joints like a rounded bullnose that would protrude away from the panel. 
     Another prior art system, shown in FIGS. 1-3, is the Miller-Clapperton MCP System 200-D™ (referred to herein as “the MCP system”). The MCP system employs panels made of aluminum composite material (ACM)  1000  as components of an exterior curtain wall or facade of a building. As shown in the vertical sectional view of FIG. 2, a horizontal attachment support  30 ′ is screwed into sheathing, such as plywood, or through non-structural sheathing, such as gypsum board, into structural building members using structural screws  70 ′. Vertical corner clips  3 ′ and  40 ′ are used to attach the panel  1000  to the horizontal attachment support  30 ′. The clips  3 ′ and  40 ′ attach only to the return leg  22  of panel (i.e., the portion of the panel that is folded 90-degrees after a rout is performed so as to be perpendicular to the face  23 ) and provide no support to the face  23  of the panel. Raised positive return attachment rivets  9 ′ are used to attach the clips. 
     A continuous inverted support channel  60 ′ is secured by a plurality of self-drilling fasteners  5 ′ that penetrate horizontal attachment support  30 ′. A continuous snap cover  80 ′ is provided over the channel  80 ′. Caulking C is used as the primary seal to keep air and water from the inverted support channel  60 ′. Systems that use caulking as a primary seal are referred to in the industry as a “wet” system. Among the disadvantages of this design, is that failure of the caulking may result in uncontrolled water entering the building. For example, water may enter through the points at which the fasteners  5 ′ and  70 ′ penetrate the horizontal attachment support  30 ′. 
     As shown in the horizontal sectional view of FIG. 1, vertical attachment support  2 ′ is screwed into sheathing, such as plywood, or through non-structural sheathing, such as gypsum board, into structural building members using structural screws  6 ′. Vertical corner clips  3 ′ and  40 ′ are used to attach the panel  1000  to the horizontal attachment support  30 ′. The clips  3 ′ and  40 ′ attach only to the return leg  22  of panel and provide no support to the face  23  of the panel. Raised positive return attachment rivets  8 ′ are used to attach the clips. A continuous inverted support channel  4 ′ is secured by a plurality of self-drilling fasteners  5 ′ that penetrate vertical attachment support  2 ′. A continuous snap cover  7 ′ is provided over the channel  4 ′. Caulking C is used as the primary seal to keep air and water from the inverted support channel  4 ′. As above, failure of the caulking may result in uncontrolled water entering the building. For example, water may enter through the points at which the fasteners  5 ′ and  6 ′ penetrate the vertical attachment support  2 ′. 
     In the MCP system, the horizontal attachment supports  30 ′ and vertical attachment supports  2 ′ used to support the panels  1000  do not have gutters or channels for directing moisture away from the building and do not offer a secondary or failsafe water seal. As discussed above, a disadvantage of this design is that failure of the caulking may result in uncontrolled water entering the building, such as for example through the points at which the fasteners penetrate the horizontal and vertical attachment supports. 
     Another disadvantage of the MCP system is that, as shown in FIG. 3, the horizontal and vertical attachment supports are not mechanically attached. To the contrary, these members merely abut one another, rather than being mechanically attached as a continuous, integrated structure. Another disadvantage of the MCP system is that each of the vertical attachment supports requires two 18 gauge metal studs for attachment, because these members do not interface mechanically. More generally, because neither the horizontal nor the vertical supports act as structural elements, these members require support from the building structure. 
     The MCP system uses three different extrusions (i.e., corner clips  3 ′ and  40 ′) to attach the panels  1000  to the horizontal and vertical supports. As shown in FIG. 1, the extrusions on the sides of the panels ( 3 ′) are similar and are continuous along those edges. However, as shown in FIG. 2, the extrusion on the top of the panel ( 40 ′ on the lower panel) is a clip that inserts into a channel in the horizontal attachment support  30 ′, rather than being secured using a fastener  5 ′, as is the extrusion on the bottom of the panel ( 40 ′ on the upper panel). Accordingly, the panel has a defined top and a bottom because of these different extrusions, i.e., the orientation of the panel cannot be changed after the extrusions have been attached to the panel. Each of these three types of extrusions attach to the return leg  22  of the panel through the use of a pop rivet  8 ′ and  9 ′. 
     One disadvantage of this configuration is that the extrusions do not provide corner support to the face  23  of the panel. This allows the return leg  22  to flex, which applies stress to the 0.020″ aluminum corner (the panel  1000  is typically 3 mm, 4 mm, or 6 mm thick, but when the inside face and the polyethylene core are routed out from the back to form the return leg  22 , all that remains to hold the return leg  22  to the front of the panel  23  is the 0.020″ aluminum face). In addition, because the extrusions are not continuous around the panel (i.e., do not form a continuous frame around the panel), the panel receives no diaphragm support and the face of the panel can distort under stress. Moreover, the three extrusions attach directly to the aluminum sub-system without a thermal break, which allows the transfer of heat and cold through the curtain wall. 
     In view of the deficiencies of the prior art discussed above, the new and non-obvious enhancements to curtain wall methods and apparatus provided by the present invention include: a dry system having a built in gutter system for rain and condensate, a failsafe moisture proof system, a flexible framework enabling vertical and horizontal support structures to be interchanged (providing flexibility during construction), support braces for the face of the curtain wall, and an alignment process for curtain wall panel alignment during construction. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The main aspect of the present invention is to provide a non-sequential, dry ACM system having structural mullions which can be mounted to the raw studs of a building. 
     Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a built in gutter system for the vertical mullions and the horizontal supports, thereby providing a failsafe moisture prevention system. 
     Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a support for the face of the curtain wall panel. 
     Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a framework having interchangeable vertical and horizontal mounting options. 
     Another aspect of the present invention is to provide for symmetrical (versus “handed”) panels to facilitate installation. 
     Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a method to align curtain wall panels during construction. 
     Another aspect of the present invention is to provide three curtain wall systems, wherein there exists interchangeable parts for all three systems from the curtain wall face to the bottom of the primary seal. 
     Other aspects of this invention will appear from the following description and appended claims, reference being made to the accompanying drawings forming a part of this specification wherein like reference characters designate corresponding parts in the several views. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     FIG. 1 (prior art) is a horizontal sectional view of a Miller-Clapperton Partnership, Inc. (MCP)™ Austell, Ga. curtain wall system. 
     FIG. 2 (prior art) is a vertical sectional view of the MCP™ system. 
     FIG. 3 (prior art) is a top perspective view of an assembled MCP™ system. 
     FIG. 4 (prior art) is a front plan view of the frame of a building. 
     FIG. 5 is the same view as FIG. 4 with horizontal supports installed. 
     FIG. 6 is a front plan view of the framework of the preferred embodiment being assembled on the building shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. 
     FIGS. 6A, and  6 B are front plan views of the joint of the horizontal and vertical supports of FIG.  6 . 
     FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of the vertical mullion. 
     FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view of the horizontal support. 
     FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of a curtain wall panel of the preferred embodiment. 
     FIG. 10 is a front plan view of the building shown in FIG. 8 having curtain wall panels being mounted to the framework. 
     FIG. 11 is a sectional view of the curtain wall panel taken along line  11 — 11  of FIG.  10 . 
     FIG. 12 is a cross sectional view taken along line  12 — 12  of FIG.  10 . 
     FIG. 13 is a front plan view of a horizontal support. 
     FIG. 14 is a top perspective view of vertical support(s) being joined with a horizontal support. 
     FIG. 15 is an exploded view of the preferred embodiment of the gutters (DPS 4000™) system at one joint. 
     FIG. 16 is a vertical sectional view showing the horizontal support taken along line  16 — 16  of FIG.  10 . 
     FIG. 17 is a horizontal sectional view showing the vertical mullion taken along line  17 — 17  of FIG.  10 . 
     FIG. 18 is a front plan view of the framework showing the operation of the built in gutter system. 
     FIG. 19 is the same view as FIG. 16 showing the operation of the built in gutter system. 
     FIG. 20 is a side plan view of the alignment fastener. 
     FIG. 21 is a front plan view of a panel being installed using an alignment fastener. 
     FIG. 22 is a cross sectional view of the alignment fastener is use. 
     FIG. 23 is a vertical sectional view of an alternate embodiment (DPS 3000™) system. 
     FIG. 24 is a horizontal sectional view of an alternate embodiment (DPS 5000 CW™) system. 
     FIG. 25 is a horizontal sectional view of an alternate embodiment (DPS 5000 T™) system. 
     FIG. 26 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 16, but with the preferred embodiment of the gutter and the curtain wall composite assembly. 
     FIG. 27 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 17, but using the preferred embodiment components shown in FIG. 26, which are shown mounted as vertical gutters. 
     FIG. 28 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 26, but using a flush joint embodiment. 
     FIG. 29 is an identical view as FIG. 27, but using a flush joint embodiment. 
     FIG. 30 is an identical view as FIG. 17, but with the preferred embodiment of the gutter and the curtain wall composite assembly. 
     FIG. 31 is an identical view as FIG. 16, but with the preferred embodiment components shown in FIG.  30 . 
     FIG. 32 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 30, but with a flush joint embodiment. 
     FIG. 33 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 31, but with a flush joint embodiment. 
     FIG. 34 is a vertical sectional view of a lower termination segment of the preferred embodiment, as illustrated in FIG.  53 . 
     FIG. 35 is a horizontal sectional view of a lower termination segment of the preferred embodiment, as illustrated in FIG.  53 . 
     FIG. 36 is vertical sectional view of a lower termination segment(s) of the preferred embodiment, as illustrated in FIG.  53 . 
     FIG. 37 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 36, but using a recessed joint embodiment. 
     FIG. 38 is a vertical sectional view of an upper termination segment of the preferred embodiment, as illustrated in FIG.  53 . 
     FIG. 39 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 38, but using a flush joint embodiment. 
     FIG. 40 is a horizontal sectional view of an upper termination segment of the preferred embodiment, as illustrated in FIG.  53 . 
     FIG. 41 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 40, but using a flush joint embodiment. 
     FIG. 42 is a cross sectional view of gutter  200  showing nominal dimensions. 
     FIG. 43 is a cross sectional view of gutter  2  showing nominal dimensions. 
     FIG. 44 is a cross sectional view of termination gutter  4017  showing nominal dimensions. 
     FIG. 45 is a cross sectional view of termination gutter  4015  showing nominal dimensions. 
     FIG. 46 is a cross sectional view of flush perimeter extrusion  4012  showing nominal dimensions. 
     FIG. 47 is a cross sectional view of recessed perimeter extrusion  4008  showing nominal dimensions. 
     FIG. 48 is a cross sectional view of a pressure channel  4007  showing nominal dimensions. 
     FIG. 49 is a cross sectional view of a snap cover  4006  showing nominal dimensions. 
     FIG. 50 is a cross sectional view of a curtain wall composite assembly with a recessed joint embodiment. 
     FIG. 51 is the identical view as shown in FIG. 50, but using a flush joint embodiment. 
     FIG. 52 is a perspective view showing the reglet corner clip attached to one member of a pair of perimeter extrusions. 
     FIG. 53 is a schematic of an imaginary building face showing the locations of components keyed to the above numbered figures. 
     FIG. 54 is a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment (DPS 3000™) system, using the same curtain wall composite assembly as used in the FIG. 30 embodiment. 
     FIG. 55 is a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment (DPS 3000™) system, using the same curtain wall composite assembly as used in the FIG. 31 embodiment. 
     FIG. 56 is a cross sectional view of a lower base  13002  of the DPS3000™ embodiment showing nominal dimensions. 
     FIG. 57 is a cross sectional view of an upper base  3015  of the DPS3000™ embodiment showing nominal dimensions. 
     FIG. 58 is a vertical cross section of the lower gutter of the preferred embodiment (DPS4000™) with the curtain wall composite assembly shown attached over and through modern stucco known as exterior insulated finish systems (EIFS). 
     FIG. 59 is a vertical cross section of a horizontal gutter for an alternate embodiment (DPS2500™) incorporating a continuous guttered sub-system. 
     FIG. 60 is a horizontal cross section of a vertical gutter for an alternate embodiment (DPS2500™) incorporating a continuous guttered sub-system. 
     FIG. 61 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 59, but utilizing a recessed joint embodiment. 
     FIG. 62 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 60, but utilizing a recessed joint embodiment. 
     FIG. 63 is a vertical cross section of a horizontal termination gutter for an alternate embodiment (DPS2500™) incorporating a continuous guttered sub-system. 
     FIG. 64 is a horizontal cross section of a vertical termination gutter for an alternate embodiment (DPS2500™) incorporating a continuous guttered sub-system. 
     FIG. 65 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 63, but utilizing a recessed joint embodiment. 
     FIG. 66 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 64, but utilizing a recessed joint embodiment. 
     FIG. 67 is a frontal view of the preferred embodiment illustrating the assembly method of installing framework units. 
     FIG. 68 is a cross sectional view of a splice joint assembly used for joining the framework units of the preferred embodiment. 
     FIG. 69 is a horizontal cross sectional view of a vertical joint of an alternate embodiment (DPS2000™) illustrating an integrated framework which supports an ACM curtain wall panel that attached to a building structure. 
     FIG. 70 is a vertical cross sectional view of a horizontal joint of an alternate embodiment (DPS2000™) illustrating an integrated framework which supports an ACM curtain wall panel that attaches to a building structure. 
     FIG. 71 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 69, but with a flush joint embodiment. 
     FIG. 72 is an identical view as shown is FIG. 70, but with a flush joint embodiment. 
     FIG. 73 is a horizontal cross sectional view of a vertical joint of an alternate embodiment (DPS2000™) illustrating clip attachment to the framework. 
     FIG. 74 is a vertical cross sectional view of a horizontal joint of an alternate embodiment (DPS2000™) illustrating clip attachment to the framework. 
     FIG. 75 is a horizontal cross sectional view of a vertical joint of an alternate embodiment (DPS2000™) illustrating a termination joint of the framework. 
     FIG. 76 is a vertical cross sectional view of a horizontal joint of an alternate embodiment (DPS2000™) illustrating a termination joint of the framework. 
     FIG. 77 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 75, but with a recessed joint embodiment. 
     FIG. 78 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 76, but with a recessed joint embodiment. 
     FIG. 79 is a frontal exploded view of a 4-way intersection of the vertical and horizontal frame members illustration connection methods of the framing members. 
     FIG. 80 is a horizontal cross sectional view illustrating member connections, and framework attachment to the building structure. 
     FIG. 81 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 79, but exploded. 
     FIG. 82 is a vertical cross sectional view of a framework assembly illustrating one method of raising it to the building structure. 
     FIG. 83 is a frontal exploded view of a 4-way intersection of the vertical and horizontal frame members illustrating connection methods of the framing members. 
     FIG. 84 is a frontal view of a 4-way intersection of the vertical and horizontal frame members illustrating connection methods of the framing members. 
     FIG. 85 is a cross sectional view of framework joinery illustration member to member connection and framework connection to the building structure. 
     FIG. 86 is a frontal view of typical framework support of the preferred embodiment and all alternate embodiments. It illustrates four-point vertical frame member to horizontal frame member connections as well as two-point horizontal frame member connections to the building structure. 
    
    
     Before explaining the disclosed embodiment of the present invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of the particular arrangement shown, since the invention is capable of other embodiments. Also, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. 
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     The preferred embodiment (referred to as DPS4000™) is shown, e.g., in FIGS. 16 and 17. The system employs aluminum composite material (ACM) panels  1000  as components of an exterior curtain wall or facade of a building. As shown in the vertical sectional view of FIG. 16, a horizontal gutter support  200  is screwed into sheathing (any continuous covering that is attached to the building structure, e.g., plywood, gypsum board, fiberglass board, etc.), or directly into structural building members (structural members that carry the wind load deflections of the building, e.g., structural steel, miscellaneous steel, structural studs, dimensional lumber, concrete, etc.) using structural screws  60 . The structural screws  60  are located outside of the gutters S 1  that on either side of the horizontal joint (i.e., the assembly that connects the panels  1000  to the horizontal gutter support  200 ) so that water leaking into the gutters S 1  cannot seep through to the building structure. 
     A perimeter corner brace  3  is provided that contacts both the face  23  and the return leg  22  of the panel  1000  to provide support for the 90-degree corner. Sealant  11  is used to maintain air and water integrity and to attach the face  23  of the panel  1000  to the corner brace  3 , providing diaphragm support to the face  23 . A recessed positive return attachment screw  8  is used fasten the return leg  22  of the panel  1000  to the corner brace  3 . The return attachment screw  8  is screwed into self-sealing butyl tape  10 , which provides an air and water seal. 
     A dry gasket primary seal G is provided to insulate the gutter space S 1  from air and water, but a failure of the gasket G merely allows water into the gutter space S 1 , rather than the building structure. A continuous support channel  4  is secured by a plurality of machine screws  5  without penetrating the horizontal gutter support  200 , which offers a dry, watertight assembly even in the event of failure of the gasket primary seal G. A continuous snap cover  7  is provided to cover the support channel  4 . 
     The panels  1000  are held to the sub-system by a continuous support channel  4  that is secured by a plurality of machine screws  5  into a screw boss  2004  without penetrating the horizontal gutter support  200 . This configuration allows a dry, watertight assembly to be maintained, even in the event of failure of the gasket primary seal G. The pressure provided by the continuous support channel  4  forces the neoprene gasket G on the bottom of the perimeter extrusion frame  3  against the horizontal gutter support  200 , thereby providing the primary seal without the use of sealants (i.e., a “dry” seal). The dry gasket primary seal G insulates the gutter space S 1  from air and water, but a failure of the gasket G merely allows water into the gutter space S 1 , rather than the building structure. A continuous snap cover  7  is provided to cover the support channel  4 . 
     As shown in the horizontal sectional view of FIG. 17, a vertical gutter support  2  is screwed into the horizontal gutter support  200  flanges and into the building structure using structural screws  70  to create a guttered sub-system. The structural screws  70  are located outside of the gutters S 2  on either side of the vertical joint (i.e., the assembly that connects panels  1000  to the vertical gutter support  2 ) so that water leaking into the gutters S 2  cannot seep through to the building structure. 
     A perimeter corner brace  3  is provided contacts both the face  23  and the return leg  22  of the panel  1000  to provide support for the 90-degree corner. As above, sealant  11  is used to maintain air and water integrity and to attach the face  23  of the panel  1000  to the corner brace  3 , providing diaphragm support to the face  23 . A recessed positive attachment screw  90  is screwed into self-sealing butyl tape  10 , which provides an air and water seal. 
     The perimeter corner braces  3  are joined with the perimeter corner braces  3  of the horizontal gutter support  200  to form a perimeter extrusion frame that is placed inside the panel. Because the same type of extrusions are used on all four sides of a panel, and the extrusions on opposite sides of the panel are identical, the panel can be flipped 180 degrees and still work within the system. Thus, the panels are symmetrical, rather than having a defined orientation. 
     The perimeter extrusion frame is attached to the return legs  22  of the panel with countersunk fasteners  8  and  90  through non-curing butyl tape  10  that is on the inside return leg  22  to provide a watertight seal. In addition, the perimeter extrusion frame provides corner support eliminating stress to the 0.020″ aluminum corner between the face  23  and return leg  22  of the panel. Thus, the perimeter extrusion frame creates a rigid box top out of the once flexible ACM panel by giving it diaphragm support. The dry gasket primary seal G is continuous around the bottom of the perimeter extrusion frame and provides a thermal break between the panels and the building structure when the frame is placed in the guttered sub-system. As discussed below, the horizontal legs of the perimeter extrusion frame (i.e., perimeter corner braces  3 ) may have weep holes in them to allow condensation to exit to the face of the building. 
     The panels  1000  are held to the sub-system by a continuous support channel  6  that is secured by a plurality of machine screws  5  into a screw boss  4020  without penetrating the vertical gutter support  2 . This configuration allows a dry, watertight assembly to be maintained, even in the event of failure of the gasket primary seal G. The pressure provided by the continuous support channel  6  forces the neoprene gasket G on the bottom of the perimeter extrusion frame  3  against the vertical gutter support  2 , thereby providing the primary seal without the use of sealants (i.e., a “dry” seal). The dry gasket primary seal G insulates the gutter space S 2  from air and water, but a failure of the gasket G merely allows water into the gutter space S 2 , rather than the building structure. A continuous snap cover  80  is provided to cover the support channel  6 . 
     As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the DPS 4000™ embodiment has a sub-system of integrated horizontal lower gutters  200  (see FIG. 13) and vertical upper gutters  2  (see FIG.  14 ). In most cases, the horizontal lower gutter  200  runs horizontally and attaches to standard-spaced vertical metal studs or other elements of the building structure, allowing for a continuous horizontal gutter. The vertical upper gutter  2  interfaces with the horizontal gutter through factory-milled openings (i.e., cutouts)  54  and join together with fasteners through the overlapping flanges outside of the gutters. The gutters receive a lap sealant when joined together, and the four outside corners of the gutter intersection receive sealant to provide a secondary seal. 
     Refer to FIGS. 1 and 17 wherein each shows a vertical joint (a cross section of a vertical mullion). The MCP system will allow water to reach the support bolt  6 ′ when the wet sealant C fails as shown by arrow “WET”. Overlapping arm assembly  25  of the corner brace  3 ′ leaks. The preferred embodiment (referred to as DPS4000™) of FIG. 17 has a built in gutter S 2 . A failure of the gasket G only allows water to pass to the gutter S as shown by arrow failsafe. The support bolts  70  are shielded by gutter walls  4001 ,  4002 . The MCP™ vertical attachment support  2 ′ has a non-structural (meaning cannot support an intersecting horizontal support) mounting face  20 . Whereas the system  4000  vertical gutter support  2  has a reinforced screw boss  4020  which is a structural component fully integrated with its intersecting horizontal support as shown in FIGS. 6 and 8. 
     The MCP™ corner brace  3 ′ only supports the route and return member  21  of the curtain wall CW and not the face  23 . Whereas the system  4000  corner brace  3  supports both the face  23  and route and return member  21  of the same curtain wall CW. 
     Referring to FIG. 3 the MCP™ vertical attachment support  2 ′ requires two parallel studs  50 , 51  to secure it to the exterior of a building via structural screws  53 . 
     Referring to FIG. 4 the wall  40  of the building has vertical studs  41  which are typically built 16 inches on center. No double studding is required for the present invention in any of its various embodiments. 
     Referring to FIG. 5, the horizontal supports  200  for the present invention are installed. The builder can choose to install all the horizontal supports  200  before installing the vertical supports  2 , or just a pair of them to build one curtain wall row at a time, either from the bottom up or from the top down. Cutouts  54  receive the flanges  61  of the vertical supports  2 . 
     Referring to FIGS. 6,  6 A, and  6 B, the horizontal supports  200  fasten to standard 16 inch center studs via fasteners  53 . The horizontal supports  200  may be built in sections and joined in convenient lengths such as six feet at joints  62 . The vertical supports  2  have a flange  61  at each end which integrally fits into the notch  54  of the horizontal flange. A sealant FS is used at the joint(s)  53  to keep moisture away from the building. 
     Referring to FIG. 7, the vertical support  2  has a base  4059 , a building side  4070 , and a support side  4072 . It must form a curtain wall plane  2019  which is the same plane as  2019  for the horizontal support  200 . Feet  4023  raise the vertical support  2  a distance d 3  away from the frame plane  2029  of the building, such that d 3 +d 4 =d 1  and d 1 &gt;d 4 . The vertical support  2  has a pair of gutter walls  4001 ,  4002 , wherein their distal ends  4009 ,  4010  define curtain wall plane  2019 . The distal ends  2017 ,  2031  of the horizontal support  200  are also co-planar along plane  2019 . The screw boss  4020  has a mounting flange  4021  and a threaded hole  4022 . The mounting holes  4024  are located distally from the gutter walls  4009 , 4010 . 
     Referring to FIG. 8, the horizontal support  200  has a base  2001  which is mounted to the building. The center longitudinal axis  4060  extends perpendicularly out of the page. The screw boss  2004  has sufficient strength to provide structural support for both the curtain wall panels and the adjoining vertical supports  2 . The screw boss is located centered in the longitudinal axis. It has a central hole  2006  which is threaded. It has a mounting flange  2005  to receive the curtain wall perimeter braces  3  (see FIG.  17 ). The mounting holes  2007  are located distally from the gutter walls  2002 , 2003 . The gutter side walls  2002 , 2003  extend co-planar with the screw boss  2004  away from the mounting side  2008  of the base  2001 , thereby forming a support side  2009  of the horizontal support  200 . 
     Referring to FIG. 10, the builder in this example has chosen to build the entire framework comprised of vertical and horizontal support elements  2  and  200  before installing the curtain wall panels. The builder has the choice of now hanging the curtain wall panels  1000  from the top down, thereby keeping the building as dry as possible during rain during construction. 
     Referring to FIGS. 9 and 15, the curtain wall panel(s) is not “handed” rather it is symmetrical from side to side and from top to bottom and fully symmetrical if the curtain wall panel is square. The curtain wall panel  1000  has a face  23  and route and return edges  1001 ,  1002 ,  1003 ,  1004 . As shown in FIG. 15, the perimeter corner braces  3  have a face member  30  which adds strength to the relatively weak face  23  of the curtain wall panel  1000 . 
     As shown in FIG. 11, corner sealant  11  is applied for air/water integrity. A recessed positive return attachment screw  8  screws into a self sealing gasket (butyl tape)  10  to secure the corner brace  3  to the curtain wall  1000 . The curtain wall  1000  floats on gaskets G which are supported against flanges  2005  and  4021  (see FIGS. 7 and 8) to provide for movement in thermal expansion and construction. Machine screw  5  holds the continuous support panel  6  against the screw boss  4020 . A continuous snap cover  80  provides an aesthetic outside appearance over the screws  5 . 
     Referring to FIGS. 10,  13 ,  14 , and  15 , the preferred embodiment curtain wall apparatus (DPS4000™) is shown partly erected. For alignment integrity among the curtain wall panels  1000 , the builder will normally erect by rows of contiguous panels. A slotted hole  4024  of the vertical gutters allows for additional expansion and contraction. 
     Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, the various system  4000  components are shown in a sectional view. 
     Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, the rain water W 1  runs down the gutter S 2  to the horizontal support  200 , and then weeps out through the face up  80  (known as a pressure equalized system). A relief cut  1580  cuts through the gutter walls  2002 , 2003  of the horizontal support  200 , thereby allowing condensate drops CD to drain. Water W 2  runs along gutter S 1  to gutter S 2  to the sill flashing or to the next gutter and exits through the weep bole WH and then the joints in the face cap  7 . 
     Referring to FIG. 19, condensate drops CD (and/or water from the primary seal) flow down the vertical support  2  gutter S 2  into the horizontal support  200  gutter S 1 , and then out weep hole WH to the space S 4  between the curtain wall panels  1000 , as shown by arrow out. Sealant FS is provided between the vertical support  2  flange  61  and the horizontal support  200  notch  54 . 
     Referring to FIG. 20, an alignment fastener  1735  is shown to have a cylindrical body  1737  ¾ inch in diameter, and preferably made of ABS plastic. A hex washer head machine screw  1736  is threaded through the body  1737 . A stop  1738  is ⅛ inch by 1½ inch diameter, ABS plastic. 
     FIGS. 21 and 22 show a method for installing a panel  1001  in proper alignment: at least one alignment fastener is secured into an adjoining vertical support screw boss  4020 ; at least two alignment fasteners are secured into an adjoining lower horizontal support screw boss or bosses; the panel  1001  is placed down on the lower alignment fasteners and against the vertical support alignment fastener; the panel is aligned and the alignment fasteners are fastened; the vertical support alignment fastener is removed; the permanent continuous support panel is installed; the lower alignment fasteners are removed; and the horizontal permanent continuous support panel is installed. 
     Referring to FIG. 23, an alternate embodiment system is shown to have no internal gutters, but offers lower costs. The building  3001  supports a symmetrical vertical and horizontal channel  3002  as part of a dry, non-directional system. An optional gutter OG is shown in dots. The channel  3002  is fastened by fastener  3003 , and sealant  3004  may be used to protect the building  3001  from moisture. Countersunk fasteners  3005  secure a plate  3006  having a screw boss  3007  to the channel  3002 , after the channel  3002  is attached to the building  3001 . The curtain wall panel  1000  has a corner brace  3010  with a smaller face segment  3011  than the preferred embodiment (DPS4000™). A gasket G is placed between the channel  3002  and the corner brackets  3010 . The continuous channel  3012  secures the corner brackets  3010  via fastener  3013 . A facial clip  3014  provides an aesthetic appearance over the fasteners  3013 . It is not a failsafe water prevention system because a failure of G could allow water into space  3049  which would attack sealant  3004 . 
     Referring to FIG. 24, a horizontal support  5000  CW is designed to attach to a steel angle SA which protrudes from the building slab  5090 . The portion labeled  4000  is equivalent to the preferred embodiment (DPS4000™). However, longer fins  5091  are needed for strength on the horizontal supports; and an integrated tube  5092  is formed as part of the base for the horizontal support  5093 . A bolt  5094  using a shim G secures the integrated tube  5092  to the steel angle SA. Member  5092  is known in the prior art in curtain wall systems, but not in combination with assembly  4000 . 
     Referring to FIG. 25, an alternate embodiment (referred to as DPS5000™) is shown to have a horizontal support  5850  wherein the assembly  4000  is the same as the preferred embodiment (see FIGS.  16  and  17 ). However, for the first time ever an exterior building structure vertical member VSM can be used to support a curtain wall as shown. The horizontal support base  5850  has (preferably aluminum) fins  5851 ,  5852  extending from the building side of the base  5850 . Fasteners (machine screws)  5853  secure the fins  5851 , 5852  to the VSM using a shim GS. No sheath exists on this building. Optional legs  5857  may be used to strengthen the vertical supports. 
     FIG. 26 is a vertical sectional view of the preferred embodiment (DPS4000™) (see also FIGS.  16  and  17 ). The lower gutter  200  is attached to the upper gutter  2  at right angles through the flanges F 1 , F 2  outside of gutter legs  2002  and  2003 . A continuous X-Y gutter is formed on which the curtain wall composite assembly attaches to the building structure  4003  using fastener  4011  or a similar fastener (see FIG.  53 ). The curtain wall panel  1000  is supported by symmetrical recessed perimeter extrusion  4008  which acts as a corner brace around all four sides of the curtain wall panel  1000  and seals the corners with corner sealant  11 . It is positively attached to return leg  22  by countersunk fastener  14010 , which penetrates recessed perimeter extrusion  4008 , and is sealed by butyl tape  10 . The recessed perimeter extrusion  4008  is held together at the four corners by the corner reglet clip  4005  providing a framework without the use of fasteners (see FIG.  52 ). The curtain wall panel  1000  is attached to the continuous gutter created by lower gutter  200  and upper gutter  2  by machine screw  5  into the integral screw boss of the gutter members. A continuous gasket G 2  which is applied to the bottom of recessed perimeter extrusion  4008  provides a thermal break between the curtain wall composite assembly (FIG.  53 ). The curtain wall composite assembly rests upon  14009  lower gutter bearing leg which provides compression and the primary seal. Continuous pressure channel  4007  attaches the curtain wall panel to lower gutter  200  and upper gutter  2  through the screw bosses SB 1  located in the gutters S 1 , S 2 . Continuous snap cover  4006  covers pressure channel  4007  covering machine screw  5 . Any water that would penetrate the primary seal would flow into lower gutter  200  and upper gutter  2  into space S 1  and drain to the bottom of the building elevation. Air pressure equalization is achieved through weep hole  4004  which allows the pressure within the curtain wall composite assembly to equalize with the pressures outside of the curtain wall face  23 . 
     FIG. 27 is vertical sectional view of the preferred embodiment without a weep hole. The lower gutter  200  is attached to the upper gutter  2  at right angles through the flanges F 1 , F 2  outside of gutter legs  2002  and  2003  to form a continuous gutter on which the curtain wall composite assembly attaches to the building structure  4003  using fastener  4011  (see FIG.  53 ). The curtain wall panel  1000  is supported by symmetrical recessed perimeter extrusion  4008  which acts as a corner brace around all four sides of the curtain wall panel  1000  and seals the corners with corner sealant  11 . It is positively attached to return leg  22  by countersunk fastener  14010 , which penetrates recessed perimeter extrusion  4008 , and is sealed by butyl tape  10 . The recessed perimeter extrusion  4008  is held together at the four corners by the corner reglet clip  4005  providing a framework without the use of fasteners. The curtain wall panel  1000  is attached to the continuous gutter created by lower gutter  200  and upper gutter  2  by machine screw  5  into the integral screw boss SB 1  of the gutter members. A continuous gasket G 2  which is applied to the bottom of recessed perimeter extrusion  4008  provides a thermal break between the curtain wall composite assembly, FIG.  53 . The curtain wall composite assembly rests upon  14009  lower gutter bearing leg which provides compression and the primary seal. Continuous pressure channel  4007  attaches the curtain wall panel to lower gutter  200  and upper gutter  2  through the screw bosses SB 1  located in the gutters. Continuous snap cover  4006  covers pressure channel  4007  covering machine screw  5 . Any water that would penetrate the primary seal would flow into lower gutter  200  and upper gutter  2  into space S 1  and drain to the bottom of the building elevation. 
     FIG. 28 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 26, but utilizing a flush joint embodiment which varies from FIG. 26 by using flush perimeter extrusion  4012 . 
     FIG. 29 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 27, but utilizing a flush joint embodiment which varies from FIG. 27 by using flush perimeter extrusion  4012 . 
     FIG. 30 is a horizontal sectional view of the preferred embodiment. The upper gutter  2  is attached to the lower gutter  200  at right angles through the flanges F 3 , F 4  outside of gutter legs  4001  and  4002  which forms a continuous gutter on which the curtain wall composite assembly makes attachment to the building structure  4003  using fastener  4011  (see FIG.  53 ). The curtain wall panel  1000  is supported by symmetrical recessed perimeter extrusion  4008  which acts as a corner brace around all four sides of the curtain wall panel  1000  and seals the corners with corner sealant  11 . It is positively attached to return leg  22  by countersunk fastener  14010 , which penetrates recessed perimeter extrusion  4008 , and is sealed by butyl tape  10 . The recessed perimeter extrusion  4008  is held together at the four corners by the corner reglet clip  4005  providing a framework without the use of fasteners. The curtain wall panel  1000  is attached to the continuous gutter created by lower gutter  200  and upper gutter  2  by machine screw  5  into the integral screw boss of the gutter members. A continuous gasket G 2  which is applied to the bottom of recessed perimeter extrusion  4008  provides a thermal break between the curtain wall composite assembly, FIG.  53 . The curtain wall composite assembly rests upon  4013  upper gutter bearing leg which provides compression and the primary seal. Continuous pressure channel  4007  attaches the curtain wall panel to lower gutter  200  and upper gutter  2  through the screw bosses located in the gutters. Continuous snap cover  4006  covers pressure channel  4007  covering machine screw  5 . Any water that would penetrate the primary seal would flow into lower gutter  200  and upper gutter  2  into space S 1  and drain to the bottom of the building elevation. 
     FIG. 31 is a horizontal sectional view of the preferred embodiment. The upper gutter  2  is attached to the lower gutter  200  at right angles through the flanges outside of gutter legs  4001  and  4002  which forms a continuous gutter on which the curtain wall composite assembly makes attachment to the building structure  4003  using fastener  4011  (see FIG.  53 ). The curtain wall panel  1000  is supported by symmetrical recessed perimeter extrusion  4008  which acts as a corner brace around all four sides of the curtain wall panel  1000  and seals the corners with corner sealant  11 . It is positively attached to return leg  22  by countersunk fastener  14010 , which penetrates recessed perimeter extrusion  4008 , and is sealed by butyl tape  10 . The recessed perimeter extrusion  4008  is held together at the four corners by the corner reglet clip  4005  providing a framework without the use of fasteners. The curtain wall panel  1000  is attached to the continuous gutter created by lower gutter  200  and upper gutter  2  by machine screw  5  into the integral screw boss of the gutter members. A continuous gasket G 2  which is applied to the bottom of recessed perimeter extrusion  4008  provides a thermal break between the curtain wall composite assembly (see FIG.  53 ). The curtain wall composite assembly rests upon  4013  upper gutter bearing leg which provides compression and the primary seal. Continuous pressure channel  4007  attaches the curtain wall panel to lower gutter  200  and upper gutter  2  through the screw bosses located in the gutters. Continuous snap cover  4006  covers pressure channel  4007  covering machine screw  5 . Any water that would penetrate the primary seal would flow into lower gutter  200  and upper gutter  2  into space S 1  and drain to the bottom of the building elevation. Air pressure equalization is achieved through weep hole  4004  which allows the pressure within the curtain wall composite assembly to equalize with the pressures outside of the curtain wall face  23 . 
     FIG. 32 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 30, but utilizing a flush joint embodiment which varies from FIG. 30 by utilizing flush perimeter extrusion  4012 . 
     FIG. 33 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 31, but utilizing a flush joint embodiment which varies from FIG. 31 by utilizing flush perimeter extrusion  4012 . 
     FIG. 34 is a vertical sectional view of lower termination gutter  4015  attached to upper gutter  2  at right angles through the flanges outside of gutter leg  2002  which forms a continuous gutter on which the curtain wall composite assembly makes attachment to the building structure  4003  using fastener  4011  or similar (see FIG.  53 ). The curtain wall panel  1000  is supported by symmetrical flush perimeter extrusion  4012  which acts as a corner brace around all four sides of the curtain wall panel  1000  and seals the corners with corner sealant  11 . It is positively attached to return leg  22  by countersunk fastener  14010 , which penetrates flush perimeter extrusion  4012 , and is sealed by butyl tape  10 . The flush perimeter extrusion  4012  is held together at the four corners by the corner reglet clip  4005  providing a framework without the use of fasteners. The curtain wall panel  1000  is attached to the continuous gutter created by lower gutter  4015  and upper gutter  2  by machine screw  5  into the integral screw boss of the gutter members. A continuous gasket G 2  which is applied to the bottom of flush perimeter extrusion  4012  provides a thermal break between the curtain wall composite assembly, FIG.  53 . The curtain wall composite assembly rests upon  14009  lower gutter bearing leg which provides compression and the primary seal. Continuous pressure channel  4007  attaches the curtain wall panel to lower gutter  4015  and upper gutter  2  through the screw bosses located in the gutters. Continuous snap cover  4006  covers pressure channel  4007  covering machine screw  5 . Any water that would penetrate the primary seal would flow into lower gutter  4015  and upper gutter  2  into space S 1  and drain to the bottom of the building elevation. The continuous pressure channel  4006  rests upon termination closure  4016  and gasket spacer G 3 . The system is sealed to adjacent materials by perimeter sealant  4014 . 
     FIG. 35 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 34, but utilizing a recessed joint embodiment which varies from FIG. 34 by utilizing recessed perimeter extrusion  4008 . 
     FIG. 36 is a vertical sectional view of lower termination gutter  4015  attached to upper gutter  2  at right angles through the flanges F 9  outside of gutter leg  2002  which forms a continuous gutter on which the curtain wall composite assembly, FIG. 53, makes attachment to the building structure  4003  using fastener  4011 . The curtain wall panel  1000  is supported by symmetrical flush perimeter extrusion  4012  which acts as a corner brace around all four sides of the curtain wall panel  1000  and seals the corners with corner sealant  11 . It is positively attached to return leg  22  by countersunk fastener  14010 , which penetrates flush perimeter extrusion  4012 , and is sealed by butyl tape  10 . The flush perimeter extrusion  4012  is held together at the four corners by the corner reglet clip  4005  providing a framework without the use of fasteners. The curtain wall panel  1000  is attached to the continuous gutter created by lower gutter  4015  and upper gutter  2  by machine screw  5  into the integral screw boss of the gutter members. A continuous gasket G 2  which is applied to the bottom of flush perimeter extrusion  4012  provides a thermal break between the curtain wall composite assembly, FIG.  53 . The curtain wall composite assembly rests upon  14009  lower gutter bearing leg which provides compression and the primary seal. Continuous pressure channel  4007  attaches the curtain wall panel to lower gutter  4015  and upper gutter  2  through the screw bosses located in the gutters. Continuous snap cover  4006  covers pressure channel  4007  covering machine screw  5 . Any water that would penetrate the primary seal would flow into lower gutter  4015  and upper gutter  2  into space S 1  and drain to the bottom of the building elevation. Air pressure equalization is achieved through weep hole  4004  which allows the pressure within the curtain wall composite assembly to equalize with the pressures outside of the curtain wall face  23 . The continuous pressure channel  4007  rests upon termination closure  4016  and gasket spacer G 3 . The system is sealed to adjacent materials by perimeter sealant  4014 . 
     FIG. 37 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 36, but utilizing a recessed joint embodiment which varies from FIG. 36 by utilizing recessed perimeter extrusion  4008 . 
     FIG. 38 is a vertical sectional view of upper termination gutter  4017  attached to lower gutter  200  at right angles through the flanges F 10  outside of gutter leg  4002  which forms a continuous gutter on which the curtain wall composite assembly, FIG. 53, makes attachment to the building structure  4003  using fastener  4011 . The curtain wall panel  1000  is supported by a recessed perimeter extrusion  4008  which acts as a corner brace around all four sides of the curtain wall panel  1000  and seals the corners with corner sealant  11 . It is positively attached to return leg  22  by countersunk fastener  14010 , which penetrates flush perimeter extrusion  4012 , and is sealed by butyl tape  10 . The flush perimeter extrusion  4012  is held together at the four corners by the corner reglet clip  4005  providing a framework without the use of fasteners. The curtain wall panel  1000  is attached to the continuous gutter created by lower gutter  200  and upper gutter  4017  by machine screw  5  into the integral screw boss of the gutter members. A continuous gasket G 2  which is applied to the bottom of recessed perimeter extrusion  4008  provides a thermal break between the curtain wall composite assembly (see FIG.  53 ). The curtain wall composite assembly rests upon  14009  lower gutter bearing leg which provides compression and the primary seal. Continuous pressure channel  4007  attaches the curtain wall panel to lower gutter  200  and upper gutter  4017  through the screw bosses located in the gutters. Continuous snap cover  4006  covers pressure channel  4007  covering machine screw  5 . Any water that would penetrate the primary seal would flow into lower gutter  200  and upper gutter  4017  into space S 2  and drain to the bottom of the building elevation. The continuous pressure channel  4006  rests upon termination closure  4016  and gasket spacer G 3 . The system is sealed to adjacent materials by perimeter sealant  4014 . 
     FIG. 39 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 38, but utilizes a flush joint embodiment which varies from FIG. 38 by utilizing flush perimeter extrusion  4012 . 
     FIG. 40 is a horizontal sectional view of upper termination gutter  4017  attached to lower gutter  200  at right angles through the flanges F 10  outside of gutter legs  2002  and  2003  which forms a continuous gutter on which the curtain wall composite assembly (see FIG. 53) makes attachment to the building structure  4003  using fastener  4011 . The curtain wall panel  1000  is supported by recessed perimeter extrusion  4008  which acts as a corner brace around all four sides of the curtain wall panel  1000  and seals the corners with corner sealant  11 . It is positively attached to return leg  22  by countersunk fastener  14010 , which penetrates recessed perimeter extrusion  4008 , and is sealed by butyl tape  10 . The recessed perimeter extrusion  4008  is held together at the four corners by the corner reglet clip  4005  providing a framework without the use of fasteners. The curtain wall panel  1000  is attached to the continuous gutter created by lower gutter  200  and upper gutter  4017  by machine screw  5  into the integral screw boss of the gutter members. A continuous gasket G 2  which is applied to the bottom of flush perimeter extrusion  4012  provides a thermal break between the curtain wall composite assembly (see FIG.  53 ). The curtain wall composite assembly rests upon  14009  lower gutter bearing leg, which provides compression and the primary seal. Continuous pressure channel  4007  attaches the curtain wall panel to lower gutter  200  and upper gutter  4017  through the screw bosses located in the gutters. Continuous snap cover  4006  covers pressure channel  4007  covering machine screw  5 . Any water that would penetrate the primary seal would flow into lower gutter  200  and upper gutter  4017  into space S 2  and drain to the bottom of the building elevation. The continuous pressure channel  4006  rests upon termination closure  4016  and gasket spacer G 3 . The system is sealed to adjacent materials by perimeter sealant  4014 . 
     FIG. 41 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 40, but utilizing a flush joint embodiment which varies from FIG. 40 by utilizing flush perimeter extrusion  4012 . 
     FIG. 42 shows lower gutter  200  nominal dimensions: 
     
       
         
               
               
             
           
               
                   
                   
               
             
             
               
                   
                 d10 = .246 
               
               
                   
                 d11 = .060 
               
               
                   
                 d12 = .110 
               
               
                   
                 d13 = .071 
               
               
                   
                 d14 = .015 
               
               
                   
                 d15 = .192 
               
               
                   
                 d16 = .018 
               
               
                   
                 d17 = .074 
               
               
                   
                 d18 = .250 
               
               
                   
                 d19 = 4.877 
               
               
                   
                 d20 = 3.877 
               
               
                   
                 d21 = 2.877 
               
               
                   
                 d22 = 1.624 
               
               
                   
                 d23 = .500 
               
               
                   
                 d24 = .575 
               
               
                   
                 d25 = .750 
               
               
                   
                 α = 30° 
               
               
                   
                 d26 = 1.750 
               
               
                   
                 d27 = .020 × 90° 
               
               
                   
                 d28 = .050R 
               
               
                   
                 P.I. = Point in between 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
     FIG. 43 shows upper gutter  2  nominal dimensions: 
     
       
         
               
               
             
           
               
                   
                   
               
             
             
               
                   
                 d10-d23 are same as FIG. 42 
               
               
                   
                 d29 = 1.625 
               
               
                   
                 d30 = .450 
               
               
                   
                 d34 = .125 
               
               
                   
                 d27 = .020 × 90° 
               
               
                   
                 d28 = .050R 
               
               
                   
                 d31 = .125 
               
               
                   
                 d32 = .125 
               
               
                   
                 d33 = .125 
               
               
                   
                 P.I. = Point in between 
               
               
                   
                 α = 30° 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
     FIG. 44 shows upper termination  4017  nominal dimensions: 
     d 35 =2.909 
     d 36 =1.625 
     d 37 =1.000 
     FIG. 45 shows lower termination  4015  nominal dimensions: 
     d 35 =2.909 
     d 37 =1.000 
     d 38 =1.750 
     FIG. 46 shows flush perimeter extension  4012  nominal dimensions: 
     d 39 =0.500 
     d 40 =0.063 
     d 41 =0.125 
     d 42 =1.214 
     d 43 =0.526 
     d 44 =0.060 
     d 45 =0.689 
     d 46 =0.050R 
     d 47 =0.020R 
     d 48 =0.250 
     FIG. 47 shows Recessed Perimeter Extension  4008  nominal dimensions: 
     d 39 =0.500 
     d 40 =0.063 
     d 41 =0.125 
     d 43 =0.526 
     d 44 =0.060 
     d 45 =0.689 
     d 46 =0.050R 
     d 47 =0.020R 
     d 48 =0.250 
     d 49 =0.375 
     d 50 =1.714 
     FIG. 48 shows pressure channel  4007  nominal dimensions: 
     
       
         
               
               
             
           
               
                   
                   
               
             
             
               
                   
                 d51 = .696 
               
               
                   
                 d52 = .537 
               
               
                   
                 d53 = .508 
               
               
                   
                 d54 = .020 × 90° 
               
               
                   
                 d55 = .010R 
               
               
                   
                 a1 = 60° 
               
               
                   
                 d56 = .030R 
               
               
                   
                 d57 = .188 
               
               
                   
                 d58 = .249R 
               
               
                   
                 d59 = .115R 
               
               
                   
                 d60 = .015R 
               
               
                   
                 d61 = .730 
               
               
                   
                 d62 = .622 
               
               
                   
                 d63 = .513 
               
               
                   
                 PT = Point 
               
               
                   
                 PI = Point in between 
               
               
                   
                 d64 = .125 
               
               
                   
                 d65 = .417 
               
               
                   
                 d66 = .666 
               
               
                   
                 Sym = Symmetrical 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
     FIG. 49 shows Snap Cover  4006  nominal dimensions: 
     d 67 =0.063 
     d 68 =0.738 
     d 69 =0.211 
     d 70 =0.050 
     d 71 =0.109R 
     d 72 =0.477 
     d 73 =0.713 
     PT=Point 
     D 74 =0.118 
     FIGS. 50 and 51 show the common gasket to curtain wall parts which are used interchangeably between the guttered systems shown in FIGS. 27 and 29 respectively, and the non-guttered systems shown in FIGS. 54 and 55. The recessed systems shown in FIGS. 54 and 55 could be interchanged to a flush system as shown in FIG.  51 . 
     Referring to FIG. 52, a reglet  4005  is a metal clip that adds structural rigidity to corner joints of corner braces  4008  and/or  4112 , where they meet at the inside corners of the curtain wall panels  1000 . 
     An alternate embodiment of the system (referred to as DPS3000™) is shown in FIGS. 54 and 55 that has no internal gutters (e.g., S 1  and S 2  in FIGS.  16  and  17 ), but offers many of the same features of the preferred embodiment, as well as lower costs. The building  4003  supports a symmetric lower base member  13002  and upper base member  3015  as part of a dry, non-directional system. The lower base member  13002  and upper base member  3015  join at right angles and overlap to create a sub-system framework through the use of fastener  4011  which penetrates the flange legs. The curtain wall panel  1000  has a corner brace  4008  exactly as the preferred embodiment. The corner brace  4008  is comprised of four symmetric extrusions which are joined at the corners with a corner reglet clip  4005 . Prior to corner  4008  being inserted into curtain wall panel  1000 , corner sealant  3117  is applied to all inside corners and butyl sealant  10  is applied in corner brace  4008  at the location of the drilled holes for fastener  1401 . Countersunk fasteners  14010  are inserted through the drilled bole in the curtain wall panel  1000  and through the butyl sealant  10  into corner brace  4008  forming a watertight rigid panel assembly. A gasket G 2  is factory-applied to the bottom of corner brace  4008 . The continuous channel  4007  secures the corner braces  4008  via fastener  53  into screw boss  3007 . A facial clip  4006  provides an aesthetic appearance over the fasteners  53 . The facial clip  4006  can be flush with the face of the curtain wall panel  1000  or recessed ½″ from the face of the curtain wall panel  1000 . 
     In FIGS. 56 and 57 the nominal dimensions of lower base  13002  and upper base  3015  are: 
     
       
         
               
               
             
           
               
                   
                   
               
             
             
               
                   
                 d100 = .246 
               
               
                   
                 d101 = .192 + .000/−.024″ 
               
               
                   
                 d102 = .060″ 
               
               
                   
                 d103 = .110″ 
               
               
                   
                 d104 = .071″ 
               
               
                   
                 d105 = .015″ 
               
               
                   
                 d106 = .018″ 
               
               
                   
                 d107 = .074″ 
               
               
                   
                 d108 = 1.000″ 
               
               
                   
                 d109 = .125″ 
               
               
                   
                 d110 = .020 × 90° 
               
               
                   
                 d111 = .500″ 
               
               
                   
                 d112 = 1.624″ 
               
               
                   
                 d113 = 3.624 
               
               
                   
                 d114 = .575″ 
               
               
                   
                 d115 = .875″ 
               
               
                   
                 α = 30° 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
     It can be seen that d 115 +d 109 =d 108  to allow the upper base  3015  to sit atop the flanges F 99  of the lower base  13002  as shown in FIG. 54, and result in a single plane mounting platform shown by dotted lines MP. 
     FIG. 58 is a vertical cross sectional view of the preferred embodiment (DPS4000™) as shown in FIG. 26, but with varying building structure components and attachment fastener. Sheathing known as exterior insulated finish system (EIFS/Stucco)  4101  is applied to insulation  4102  which is attached to the structural studs  4103  comprises an alternate composite building structure. The framework of lower gutter  200  and upper gutter  2  are attached to the structural studs  4103  using long structural fastener  4100  without crushing the composite building structure comprised of exterior insulated finish system (EIFS)  4101  and insulation  4102 . 
     FIG. 59 is a vertical cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment (referred to as DPS2500™). Horizontal gutter  2505  is joined with vertical gutter  2506  at right angles and connected through vertical flange leg  2512  and horizontal flange leg  2513  using flange bolt attachment screw  2509 . The pivot point leg  2510  on each side of the horizontal gutter space HGS is milled out at the location of the intersection of the vertical gutter  2505  which forms a continuous guttered framework. The ACM curtain wall panel  1000  has an additional rout  2500  in return leg  22  which fits over pivot point  2510  allowing curtain wall panel face  23  to flex. The curtain wall panel  1000  does not have a corner brace as in the preferred embodiment, but incorporates the framework and continuous gutter embodiments of such. The framework of horizontal gutter  2505  and vertical gutter  2506  is attached to the building structure  4003  using attachment screw  2509 . The curtain wall panel  1000  is placed on the framework and held in place by pressure to the return leg  22  over the pivot point  2510  by pressure channel  2503  which is attached to the gutters  2505  and  2506  by machine screw  2502  into screw boss  2511 . Snap cover  2501  covers machine screw  2502  and pressure channel  2503 . The bottom horizontal return leg  22  of the curtain wall panel  1000  incorporates a weep hole  2504  used to remove moisture from condensation and act as a failsafe against water that may have traveled outside of horizontal gutter space HGS. Water within the horizontal gutter space HGS travels to the vertical gutter space VGS and then downward to the bottom of the framework and out the building. 
     FIG. 60 is a horizontal cross sectional view of vertical gutter  2506  which is joined with horizontal gutter  2505  at right angles and connected through vertical flange leg  2412  and horizontal flange leg  2513  using flange bolt attachment screw  2509 . The ACM curtain wall panel  1000  has an additional rout  2500  in return leg  22  which fits over pivot point  2510  allowing curtain wall panel face  23  to flex. The curtain wall panel  1000  does not have a corner brace as in the preferred embodiment, but incorporates the framework and continuous gutter embodiments of such. The framework of horizontal gutter  2505  and vertical gutter  2506  is attached to the building structure  4003  using attachment screw  2509 . The curtain wall panel  1000  is placed on the framework and held in place by pressure to the return leg  22  over the pivot point  2510  by pressure channel  2503  which is attached to the gutters  2505  and  2506  by machine screw  2502  into screw boss  2511 . Snap cover  2501  covers machine screw  2502  and pressure channel  2503 . Water that enters the vertical gutter space VGS travels downward to horizontal gutter space HGS and weeps to the face of the curtain wall panel face  23  through weep hole  2504 . 
     FIG. 61 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 59, but varies by having a recessed joint embodiment whereby the face of the panel  23  extends beyond snap cover  2501 . 
     FIG. 62 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 60, but varies by having a recessed joint embodiment whereby the face of the panel  23  extends beyond snap hover  2501 . 
     FIG. 63 is a vertical cross sectional view of the horizontal termination cutter  2507  which connects to vertical gutter  2506  at right angles forming a continuous gutter framework. The pivot leg  2510  is milled out at the location of the vertical gutters to allow water to drain down vertical gutter  2506  to the bottom of the building structure and out the building. The guttered framework is attached to the building structure  4003  using attachment screw  2509 . The curtain wall panel  1000  is placed on the framework and held in place by pressure to the return leg  22  over the pivot point  2510  by pressure channel  2503 , which is attached to the gutters  2506  and  2507  by machine screw  2502  into screw boss  2511 . Snap cover  2501  covers machine screw  2502  and pressure channel  2503 . 
     FIG. 64 is a horizontal cross sectional view of the vertical termination gutter  2508  which connects to horizontal gutter  2505  at right angles forming a continuous gutter framework. Water that enters the gutter travels downward to the bottom of the building structure and out the building. The guttered framework is attached to the building structure  4003  using attachment screw  2509 . The curtain wall panel  1000  is place on the framework and held in place by pressure to the return leg  22  over the pivot point  2510  by pressure channel  2503  which is attached to the gutters  2505  and  2508  by machine screw  2502  into screw boss  2511 . Snap cover  2501  covers machine screw  2502  and pressure channel  2503 . 
     FIG. 65 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 63, but varies by having a recessed joint embodiment whereby the face of the panel  23  extends beyond snap cover  2501 . 
     FIG. 66 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 64, but varies by having a recessed joint embodiment whereby the face of the panel  23  extends beyond snap cover  2501 . 
     FIG. 67 is a frontal view of the assembly of vertical frame members VFM and horizontal frame members HFM at right angle to create a framework FW. It illustrates the ability to stack one framework FW on top of another against the building structure BS and to join them using a splice joint SJ. 
     FIG. 68 is a horizontal cross sectional view of splice joint assembly which connects the gutter of one framework to the gutter of another framework by attaching the left splice plate  4105  and right splice plate  4104  to the lower splice plate  4106  to the gutters utilizing splice fastener  4107 . The composite assembly keeps the gutter intact while providing structural support to the framework. 
     FIG. 69 is a horizontal cross sectional view of the vertical frame member  2107  of an alternate embodiment (referred to as DPS2000™) which is joined at right angles to the horizontal frame member  2106  through the horizontal flange leg  2110  and the vertical flange leg  2111  utilizing flange attachment bolt  2112 . A framework is formed that attaches to building structure  2117  utilizing attachment screw  2113 . The curtain wall panel  1000  is attached to the framework comprised of horizontal frame member  2106  and vertical frame member  2107  by machine screw  2102  which slips through clip slot  2114  in recessed joint corner brace clip  2104  which attaches to return leg  22  and panel stiffener  2115  by clip fastener  2116 . The machine screw  2102  is fastened into screw boss  2105 . Clip slot  2114  allows the curtain wall panel  1000  to float on top of the framework. The primary seal of the system is achieved by the application of backer rod  2101  and sealant  2100  in the recessed joint. 
     FIG. 70 is a vertical cross sectional view of the horizontal frame member  2106  which is joined at right angles to the vertical frame member  2107  through the horizontal flange leg  2110  and the vertical flange leg  2111  utilizing flange attachment bolt  2112 . They make a framework that is attached to building structure  2117  utilizing attachment screw  2113 . The curtain wall panel  1000  is attached to the framework comprised of horizontal frame member  2106  and vertical frame member  2107  by machine screw  2102  which slips through clip slot  2114  in recessed joint corner brace clip  2104  which attaches to return leg  22  by clip fastener  2116 . Clip slot  2114  allows the curtain wall panel  1000  to float on top of the framework. The primary seal of the system is achieved by the application of backer rod  2101  and sealant  2100  in the recessed joint. 
     FIG. 71 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 69, but varies by having a flush joint embodiment utilizing flush joint corner brace  2103  whereby the face of the panel  23  is flush with the sealant  2100 . 
     FIG. 72 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 70, but varies by having a flush joint embodiment whereby the face of the panel  23  is flush with the sealant  2100 . 
     FIG. 73 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 69, but with one curtain wall panel  1000  eliminated for clarity to illustrate the flush corner brace clip  2103 . 
     FIG. 74 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 70, but with one curtain wall panel  1000  eliminated for clarity to illustrate the flush corner brace clip  2103 . 
     FIG. 75 is a horizontal cross sectional view of the vertical termination frame member  2109  which is joined at right angles to the horizontal frame member  2106  through the horizontal flange leg  2110  and the vertical flange leg  2111  utilizing flange attachment bolt  2112 . They make a framework that is attached to building structure  2117  utilizing attachment screw  2113 . The curtain wall panel  1000  is attached to the framework comprised of horizontal frame member  2106  and vertical termination member  2109  by machine screw  2102  which slips through clip slot  2114  in recessed joint corner brace clip  2104  which attaches to return leg  22  by clip fastener  2116 . Clip slot  2114  allows the curtain wall panel  1000  to float on top of the framework. The primary seal of the system is achieved by the application of backer rod  2101  and sealant  2100  in the flush joint. 
     FIG. 76 is a vertical cross sectional view of the horizontal termination frame member  2108  which is joined at right angles to the vertical frame member  2107  through the horizontal flange leg  2110  and the vertical flange leg  2111  utilizing flange attachment bolt  2112 . They make a framework that is attached to building structure  2117  utilizing attachment screw  2113 . The curtain wall panel  1000  is attached to the framework comprised of horizontal termination member  2108  and vertical frame member  2107  by machine screw  2102  which slips through clip slot  2114  in recessed joint corner brace clip  2104  which attaches to return leg  22  by clip fastener  2116 . Clip slot  2114  allows the curtain wall panel  1000  to float on top of the framework. The primary seal of the system is achieved by the application of backer rod  2101  and sealant  2100  in the flush joint. 
     FIG. 77 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 75, but varies by having a recessed joint embodiment utilizing recessed joint corner brace  2104  whereby the sealant  2100  is recessed with respect to the face of the panel  23 . 
     FIG. 78 is an identical view as shown in FIG. 74, but varies by having a recessed joint embodiment utilizing recessed joint corner brace  2104  whereby the sealant  2100  is recessed with respect to the face of the panel  23 . 
     FIG. 79 is an exploded frontal view showing vertical frame member  2107  and horizontal frame member  2106  illustrating connection of flange bolts  2112  from vertical flange leg  2111  and horizontal flange leg  2110 . Fastener  2113  illustrates connection of the framework comprised of vertical frame member  2107  and horizontal frame member  2106  to the building structure. 
     FIG. 80 is a cross sectional view of framework comprised of vertical frame member  2107  and horizontal frame member  2106  illustrating frame connection using flange bolt  2112  and frame to building structure  2117  attachment utilizing fastener  2113 . 
     FIG. 81 is an frontal view showing vertical frame member  2107  and horizontal frame member  2106  illustrating connection of flange bolts  2112  from vertical flange leg  2111  and horizontal flange leg  2110 . Fastener  2113  illustrates connection of the framework comprised of vertical frame member  2107  and horizontal frame member  2106  to the building structure. 
     FIG. 82 is a vertical cross sectional view of a framework assembly consisting of vertical frame member  2107  and horizontal frame member  2106  with flanges  2110  and  2111  illustrating one method of attaching a framework to the building structure  2117 . 
     FIG. 83 is an exploded frontal view for alternate embodiment DPS2500™ of vertical frame member  2506  and horizontal frame member  2505  illustrating assembly connections through flanges  2512  and  2513  utilizing flange connection  2514 . The assembled connection is attached to the building structure utilizing fastener  2509 . Frame  84  is a frontal view of vertical frame member  2506  and horizontal frame member  2505  illustrating assembly connections through flanges  2512  and  2513  utilizing flange connection  2514 . The assembled connection is attached to the building structure utilizing fastener  2509 . 
     FIG. 85 is a cross sectional view of framework consisting of vertical frame member  2506  and horizontal frame member  2505  illustrating connection through flange  2512  and flange  2511  with flange bolt  2514 . The curtain wall panel  1000  is attached to the framework by attaching return leg  22  to pivot leg  2510  and held in place by pressure channel  2503  by fastener  2502  and covered by snap cover  2501 . The frame assembly attaches to the building structure  4003 . 
     FIG. 86 shows horizontal frame members HFM joined to vertical frame members VFM at right angles. The left flange leg LFL and right flange leg RF of the vertical frame members VFM overlap the lower flange leg LF and the upper flange leg UF of the horizontal frame members HFM above and below the vertical extents VE of the curtain wall panel, and are connected utilizing bolts and nuts at the intersection. Upon the horizontal frame members HFM and vertical frame members VFM being bolted together, it comprises the framework FW. The framework FW is placed against the building structure BS and joined through the horizontal frame members HFM utilizing building fasteners BF 1  in the upper flange leg UF and BF 2  in the lower flange leg LF, as required by wind loading requirements, between the horizontal extents HE of the curtain wall panel. The vertical bearing surface VBS and horizontal bearing surface HBS prevent the framework FW from crushing any sheathing SH, such as gypsum board or insulation, which may be attached over the building structure BS. The vertical spacing VS of the building fasteners BF 1  and BF 2  provide constant force to the flanges UF, LF, RF, LFL of the framework FW to the building structure BS while also providing for two connection points in lieu of one. Nominal Dimensions are: 
     A 1 =4′×5′=20′ 
     A 2 =2(4′)×(0.40)+2(5′)×(0.40)=7.12 
     A 2  over A 1 =0.36 
     A=4′0 
     B=5′0 
     C=4′0 
     D=5′0 
     E=4′0 
     F=5′0 
     G=4.750″ 
     H=4.750″ 
     Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, numerous modifications and variations can be made and still the result will come within the scope of the invention. No limitation with respect to the specific embodiments disclosed herein is intended or should be inferred.