Abstract:
A window assembly for a wall opening can have a center bar removably engaged to a window assembly frame; the center bar having at least one deep channel to receive an edge of at least a first window pane within a portion of a channel depth on a first side and having at least a second channel on a second side of the center bar to receive an edge of a second window pane; and the center bar lowerable over the first window pane edge when disconnected to the frame to a depth within the deep channel to allow the second window pane to be disengaged from the second channel.

Description:
FIELD 
       [0001]    The present device and methods generally relate to window systems, and specifically to vehicular window assemblies that are easy to assemble and disassemble. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    Work vehicles, such as tractors, combines, front end loaders, excavators, and the like, typically have enclosed cabs with large window assemblies to provide ventilation and to allow an operator a good view of their work environment. Frequently, these window assemblies provide multiple fixed and/or movable window panes within a perimeter frame. 
         [0003]    During vehicle assembly, a window assembly can be attached to a body side wall as a single complete unit or in pieces. In most instances the window assembly is permanently attached from the outside of the vehicle by its perimeter frame with a weatherproof seal using compressible sealing rings, adhesives, and the like. Protective caging can also be added to the outside surface of the window assembly to protect window panes and the vehicle operator from stray impact. 
         [0004]    Periodically, it is necessary or desirable to provide maintenance, cleaning, or replacement of various window assembly components. This can be a complicated and impractical task, especially when protective caging is in place. Removal of the caging and the entire assembly is impractical and time consuming for a single person due to its size and weight. Further, removal of the entire window assembly also requires new weatherproofing when reinstalling. The cost and effort associated with such steps can reduce the frequency of needed repairs or maintenance or take the vehicle out of service for extended periods of time. 
         [0005]    Despite the current state of the art, further improvements in window assembly maintenance are possible and desired. It would be desirable to provide a window assembly that can be disassembled, in whole or in part and as needed from within the inside of a work vehicle cab without the need to remove any perimeter framing. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0006]    Accordingly, there is provided herein embodiments of a window assembly that are easy to assemble and disassemble. 
         [0007]    In one embodiment, a window assembly for a wall opening can have a center bar removably engaged to a window assembly frame; the center bar having at least one deep channel to receive an edge of at least a first window pane within a portion of a channel depth on a first side and having at least a second channel on a second side of the center bar to receive an edge of a second window pane; and the center bar lowerable over the first window pane edge when disconnected to the frame to a depth within the deep channel to allow the second window pane to be disengaged from the second channel. 
         [0008]    Additional features can include at least one spring loaded trigger disposed within center bar cavity, wherein the center bar engages to the perimeter frame by the at least one spring loaded trigger end urged into a frame recess. The spring loaded trigger can be fixed in place by threaded studs compressing the trigger against an inside center bar cavity wall by threaded studs extended through threaded bores within the trigger. The threaded studs can extend into the at least one deep channel in the portion of the channel unoccupied by the first window pane in a fixed trigger position, and can be retracted from the at least one deep channel in an unfixed trigger position, whereby the center bar may be lowered over the first window pane the entire depth of the at least one deep channel. 
         [0009]    The window assembly can have a variety of fixed and slidable window panes. For example, the first window pane can be a fixed window pane, the second window pane can be slidable along the second channel. A third window pane can be fixed and having an edge disposed within a third channel of the center bar second side. 
         [0010]    Other features of the present embodiments can include channels having compressible seals to retain the window panes. The second channel compressible seal can allow the rotation of the second window pane of at least about 5 degrees off a vertical center. 
         [0011]    The present embodiments can also include a vehicle having a window assembly having a continuous perimeter frame having an outer side that is sized and shaped to fit closely within a vehicle wall opening and an inner side defining a window opening; a center bar removably engaged to the frame; the center bar having at least one deep channel to receive an edge of at least a first window pane within a portion of a channel depth on a first side and having at least a second channel on a second side of the center bar to receive an edge of a second window pane; and the center bar lowerable over the first window pane edge when disconnected to the frame to a depth within the deep channel to allow the second window pane to be disengaged from the second channel. 
         [0012]    A method to remove window panes of a window assembly of the present embodiments can include the steps of disengaging threaded studs of the spring loaded trigger grip; disengaging the trigger grip from the frame; lowering the center bar over the first window pane edge until the deep channel depth is reached; rotating the second window pane from its vertical axis by about at least 5 degrees; removing the second window pane from a second channel compression seal; removing the center bar from a compression seal to an edge of the first window pane; and removing the first window pane from a frame seal. 
         [0013]    Other features will become more apparent to persons having ordinary skill in the art to which pertains from the following description and claims. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES 
         [0014]    The foregoing features, as well as other features, will become apparent with reference to the description and Figures below, in which like numerals represent elements, and in which: 
           [0015]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a window assembly according to the present embodiments. 
           [0016]      FIG. 2  is a perspective view of a window assembly according to the present embodiments in the environment of a caged cab of a work vehicle. 
           [0017]      FIG. 3  is a side view of a window assembly according to the present embodiments. 
           [0018]      FIG. 4  is a side view of a window assembly according to the present embodiments. 
           [0019]      FIG. 5  is a sectional view of a window assembly according to the present embodiments taken along section lines A-A in  FIG. 3  in an operational mode. 
           [0020]      FIG. 6  is a sectional view of a window assembly according to the present embodiments taken along section lines A-A in  FIG. 3  in a disassembly mode of  FIG. 4 . 
           [0021]      FIG. 7  is a close up view of the highlighted area VII of  FIG. 4 . 
           [0022]      FIG. 8  is a sectional view taken along section lines B-B in  FIG. 3  in an operational mode. 
           [0023]      FIG. 9  is a sectional view taken along section lines B-B in  FIG. 3  in a disassembly mode of  FIG. 4 . 
           [0024]      FIG. 10  is a side view of a partially disassembled window assembly according to the present embodiments removing a center bar. 
           [0025]      FIG. 11  is a side view of a partially disassembled window assembly according to the present embodiments removing a lower window pane. 
           [0026]      FIG. 12  is an exploded perspective view of a window assembly according to the present embodiments. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0027]    The present device and methods generally relate to window systems, and specifically to vehicular window assemblies that are easy to assemble and disassemble. 
         [0028]    In the art, removal of large window assemblies is difficult due to their inherent size and weight. Typical configurations can include three window panes including a lower fixed pane and two upper split panes. Optionally, some panes may be slidable along a track to provide ventilation. Also, protection against stray impact to these assemblies can be included through fixed caging. 
         [0029]    In the harsh environment often associated with work vehicles, window panes and tracks can lose visibility, obtain obstructions in the tracks, or broken panes. A center bar having the horizontal sliding window track can collect dirt and debris which cannot be easily removed. Even after a window pane is cleared of debris, replacing it onto a soiled track can make sliding difficult and wear the weatherproofing seals prematurely. 
         [0030]    Maintenance to these types of window units usually involves removal of the entire unit from the vehicle. In other words, the perimeter frame and all window panes are removed in tact for disassembly and maintenance while off the vehicle. Not only does the removal of the entire unit place it at risk of further damage while not in place in the vehicle, but also the weather proof seal is breached. This breach is particularly critical along the bottom of the lower window pane. Attempts to remedy this situation could include fabricating the perimeter frame in separate sections to leave the lower window pane in place. However, this provides additional potential leak paths where the perimeter seal is split. 
         [0031]    The present embodiments provide a solution to the present design challenges associated with the care and maintenance of these types of window assemblies. In general, in one embodiment, if one of the upper panes needs to be removed, only that pane of glass is removed. Even if the lower fixed pane of glass needs to be removed, it can be reached simply by removing the individual panes above it first. The result is that even the operator of the vehicle can service these window units easily within the confines of a vehicle interior cab. Further, the perimeter seal need never be removed for the life of the vehicle, thus the weather tight seal can be preserved. 
         [0032]    Generally, one embodiment of the present design provides for a three glass panel window unit assembly, a center bar separating two upper panels from a fixed lower panel that can be lowered over the lower panel to disengage the upper glass panes from its seals. The upper glass can be removed by rotating the glass pane from its vertical plane to just past the perimeter of the window unit. Once the upper glass panes have been removed, the center bar can also be removed, followed by the removal of the lower pane, if desired. The center bar is removable by use of spring loaded sliding latch mechanisms (trigger) held in place by fixing means such as threaded studs (knobs). The screw pins when in place in the assembled window unit not only restrict movement of the sliding latches, but also holds the center bar above the top edge of the lower glass pane, which in turn holds the upper glass panes within their seals along the unit perimeter and center bar. 
         [0033]    The resulting design provides several advantages in the art. The current embodiments reduce the number of splits within the perimeter seal to ensure better long term weatherproofing. Further, all glass removal is internal to the frame. Since the perimeter frame does not need to be removed during routine maintenance joint integrity is not disturbed, further increasing the life of the assembly and the seal. 
         [0034]    The simplicity of the present embodiments reduce the number of steps and personnel needed to service the unit. No alignment of threaded fasteners required, removing the potential for cross threading. No tools are needed for assembly or disassembly operations. The self aligning center bar assures a correct home position for glass when reassembling. The threaded studs and knobs have multiple functions. They hold the lower glass pane in place and the latch striker (trigger) while screwed in. When unscrewed, the trigger is allowed to travel through a slot function and the lower glass pane is allowed to slide into a deep seal within the center bar for removal of the upper glass. 
         [0035]    Turning now to the Figures are shown a window unit generally indicated at  20 . The window unit can be attached to any number of wall openings in a variety of applications. Preferably, the wall is upright. In  FIG. 2 , window unit  20  is shown in environment of a wall of a vehicle cab  30 . Window unit  20  can be optionally protected from stray impact by cage  32 . As shown in  FIG. 1 , window unit  20  is preferably formed by a perimeter frame  24  that is fused at all joints. Perimeter frame  24  can be formed from extruded aluminum, composites, plastics, other metals, and combinations thereof. In the illustrated embodiment of  FIG. 1 , two break points  60  and  62  are shown in perimeter frame  24 . Break points  60  and  62  can be sealed by any means to provide a weatherproof seal, and can include welding (such as arc welding or spot welding), gluing, or use of fastening means, such as screws, rivots, and the like. Where fastening means are used, a powder coating over fastened break points  60  and  62  can provide additional weatherproof sealing. Perimeter frame  24  can have an interior channel  66  configured to receive a perimeter channel seal  58 . Perimeter channel seal  58  (and all seals to the window panes) can be made of an elastomeric substance suited to provide a friction fit and weather tight seal for window unit  20  window panes. The friction fit is also configured to allow a user to be able to remove the glass pane without use of additional tools and in some instances allow a window pane to slide to create an opening. 
         [0036]    For illustrative purposes, the embodiments of the present window unit provide two upper panes  22   a  and  22   b , and a lower pane  22   c . Panes  22  are fixed in place in the assembled position by perimeter seal  58  and a center bar  26 . As shown in the cross sections of center bar  26  in  FIGS. 5 and 6 , pane  22   a  is held on its lower edge within center bar  26  channel  72  having seal  41 . Pane  22   a  is also held in place along its upper edge by a perimeter seal. Pane  22   b  is held on its lower edge within center bar  26  channel  70  having seal  40  and along its top edge by a second perimeter seal (not shown). Pane  22   c  is held in place on its upper edge by seal  42  disposed within deep channel  74 . Again, seals  40 ,  41  and  42  provide a friction fit to hold the pane in place and provide a weather tight seal. 
         [0037]    Also, as shown, pane  22   a  is slideable from a closed position to an open position  68  (See  FIG. 3 ). Therefore the seal  41  friction fit should allow a user to slide pane  22   a  from an open and closed position while maintaining a seal against weather. An optional vertical bar  82  can be permanently affixed to pane  22   a  and can have a weather tight seal  84 . As illustrated, pane  22   a  can be held in place along its travel path by use of a latching mechanism actuated by window latch handle  34 . Latch handle  34  can be opened ( FIG. 1 ) to allow pane  22   a  to slide, or closed  34   a  ( FIG. 3 ) to actuate a mechanism to hold pane  22   a  in place. Pane  22   a  can be held in place by a window latch pin  78  ( FIGS. 3 and 7 ), which can be actuated to be inserted into a plurality of perimeter frame  24  latch holes  80 . It is noted that the present window configuration is for illustration purposes only and other possible configurations are possible as to the number of window panes and openability of those panes. 
         [0038]    In the present embodiments center bar  26  can provide additional features to allow a user to dissemble window unit  20  by a single person without need for additional tools in a few simple steps. In general, adjustments to center bar  26  allow the removal of one or both upper window panes. If the lower window pane is also to be removed, the center bar can be removed to allow easy removal of that lower pane. 
         [0039]    As illustrated, center bar  26  can have a spring loaded trigger  64  disposed within center bar channel  76  (See  FIGS. 5-6  and  8 - 9 ). Trigger  64  is slidable within channel  76  from a closed position ( FIG. 8 ) to an open position ( FIG. 9 ). Spring  46  urges trigger  64  to a closed position. The distance of travel can be defined by a length of a slot  52  between distance  48  to  50 . The distance between  48  and  50  can range from about 1 to 5 centimeters and preferably is about 2 centimeters. Travel to a closed position can also be defined by a trigger end  86  extending into a perimeter frame recess  56  and to its open position defined by trigger end  86  removed from perimeter frame access  56 . 
         [0040]    As shown in the Figures, knobs  28  can be attached to a threaded stud  38  within a threaded bore  88  within spring loaded trigger  64 . As knobs  28  are rotated to a closed position, the grip of the trigger  64  against center bar trigger channel is increased to hold trigger  64  in place. Alternately, knob  28  can also clamp onto perimeter frame  24  where knob  28  extends to the end of center bar  26 . While the knobs  28  are rotated to secure trigger  64 , threaded stud  38  is configured to concurrently extend into deep channel  72  to prevent window pane  22   c  from travel into channel  74  to channel  74  bottom  90  (See  FIG. 5 ). In other words, pane  22   c  can travel no further into channel  74  than to the edge of the threaded stud  38 . As knob  28  is turned to its released position, the grip of trigger  64  against center bar trigger channel  76  is released allowing a user, if desired, to overcome the spring action of spring  46  to remove trigger end from the perimeter frame  24  ( FIG. 9 ). Additionally, as knob  28  is turned to its released position a distance  44  ( FIG. 6 ), threaded stud  38  retracts from deep channel  74 . Knob  28  and threaded stud  38  can be made of a variety of materials such as metals and thermoplastic composites. It is also noted that although the stud is described as threaded, other types of mechanism may be used to fix and retract the stud from the channel. 
         [0041]    The retraction of the threaded stud allows center bar  26  to be lowered further down onto pane  22   c  to the bottom of channel  74 . The distance lowered (e.g., distance  92  of  FIGS. 5 and 6 ) is configured to be a dimension sufficient to release an upper edge of pane  22   a  and  22   b  from perimeter seal  58 . Thus, once center bar  26  is lowered to the top edge of pane  22   c , panes  22   a  and  22   b  are allowed a slight rotation to clear the perimeter frame  24 , thus allowing removal of panes  22   a  and  22   b . Rotation  36  ( FIGS. 6 and 7 ) is limited by the flex allowed by elastic seals  40  and  41 , and is preferably at least about 5 degrees off vertical center in either direction. Further, flex can be obtained by the allowed elasticity of seal  72 . Once panes  22   a  and  22   b  are removed, center bar  26  can be removed to allow removal of pane  22   c.    
         [0042]    As described above, the window units of the present embodiments can be easily assembled and disassembled multiple times throughout the life of the unit by a single individual using minimal steps. It is noted that the following description of the disassembly is the reverse order of the initial and subsequent re-assembly of the window unit. In each instance, not all panes may need to be removed for servicing, replacement or cleaning. Nevertheless, for purposes of this description, the disassembly of all three panes is described. 
         [0043]    To begin disassembly, knobs  28  can be loosened. For typical threaded stud applications, this would be to turn them counter-clockwise until they both released the clamp load (grip) of trigger  64  from the center bar  26  (or alternately the perimeter frame  24  where knob  28  extends to the end of center bar  26 ) and cleared deep channel  74 . Once released, knobs  28  are slid along travel path  52  against the urging of spring  46  to remove trigger end  86  from perimeter frame recess  56 . 
         [0044]    These steps allow center bar  26  to be lowered further down onto lower pane  22   c  since more of deep channel  74  is exposed. The lowering of center bar  26  drops far enough for the tops of panes  22   a  and  22   b  to clear the perimeter seal  58 . Sliding pane  22   a  is positioned to clear any side perimeter seal  58  so that pane  22   a  is only attached within the seal of center bar  26  (seal  41 ). Pane  22   a  can then be rotated out far enough to clear perimeter frame  24  and pulled out of seal  41 . Once pane  22   a  has been removed, pane  22   b  can similarly be removed by sliding it forward to clear any additional perimeter seals, then rotated and removed. 
         [0045]      FIG. 10  illustrates the next step to remove center bar  26 . It can be rotated out in any manner that is not blocked by the geometry of perimeter frame  24 . Thus, as shown in  FIG. 10 , this would involve rotating center bar  26  off the rear of perimeter frame  24 . 
         [0046]    A final step to remove pane  22   c  is illustrated in  FIG. 11 . As shown, pane  22   c  can be rotated out in any manner that is not blocked by the geometry of perimeter frame  24 . Thus, as shown in  FIG. 10  this would also involve rotating pane  22   c  off the rear of perimeter frame  24 . 
         [0047]    While the embodiments and methods have been described in conjunction with specific embodiments, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications, and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing description.