Abstract:
A window system is disclosed. The window system includes a window which has a first window pane spatially separated from a second window pane. The window panes are surrounded by a window frame, which houses a memory device for storing electronic data.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/528,099, filed Oct. 30, 2014, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/928,687, filed Jan. 17, 2014 and is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/310,899, filed Jun. 20, 2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,899,562, issued Oct. 2, 2014; which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/988,024, filed May 2, 2014 and is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/188,303, filed Feb. 24, 2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,789,818, issued Sep. 29, 2014, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/796,170, filed Mar. 12, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,695,955, issued Apr. 15, 2014. All of the aforementioned are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    Impact forces received upon particular materials may compromise the integrity of the material and the purpose for which it is used. For example, glass is an amorphous solid material that is used extensively in everyday life. However, glass products such as automobile windshields and home windows are particularly prone to encounter debris that may result in some degree of cracking, chipping, or even shattering (collectively “breakage”). Rocks are often encountered by automobile tires and projected at following traffic, and lawn mowers may similarly propel debris at windows (and especially those that are adjacent the ground). While manufacturing advancements have been made to improve the resilience of glass products, such improved products may be undesirably expensive and may nevertheless still be susceptible to breakage. Further, those manufacturing advancements do not aid existing products that were made with older technology. 
         [0003]    Some embodiments set forth herein may inhibit glass breakage without requiring any changes to how the glass is manufactured. Other embodiments set forth herein may be incorporated in the glass manufacturing process as an alternative, or enhancement, to other anti-breakage technologies. Still other embodiments set forth herein may provide electronic means for monitoring activity around a window or the surrounding area or customizing windows. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0004]    The following presents a simplified summary of the invention in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the invention. This summary is not an extensive overview of the invention. It is not intended to identify critical elements of the invention or to delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented elsewhere. 
         [0005]    In one embodiment, an apparatus for inhibiting glass breakage includes a housing, a contact member, and a biasing member. The housing has a contact end with an aperture, and the contact member is disposed at least primarily inside the housing. The biasing member biases the contact member toward the housing aperture. Means for fixing the housing contact end to a glass surface are further included. 
         [0006]    In another embodiment, a method for inhibiting glass breakage begins with obtaining an apparatus having: (a) a housing having a contact end with an aperture; (b) a contact member disposed at least primarily inside the housing; and (c) a biasing member biasing the contact member toward the housing aperture. The housing contact end is then adhered to a glass item, and impact force is transferred from the glass item to the biasing member via the contact member. 
         [0007]    In still another embodiment, a glass product includes a sheet of glass and an apparatus for inhibiting glass breakage. The apparatus for inhibiting glass breakage includes: (a) a housing having a contact end with an aperture; (b) a contact member disposed at least primarily inside the housing; and (c) a biasing member biasing the contact member toward the housing aperture. The housing contact end is coupled to the sheet of glass, and the contact member rests upon the sheet of glass for receiving an impact force from the sheet of glass. 
         [0008]    In yet another embodiment, a glass product includes a first sheet of glass, a second sheet of glass laminated to the first sheet of glass, and an apparatus for inhibiting glass breakage. The second sheet of glass has an opening therein, and the apparatus for inhibiting glass breakage includes: (a) a housing having a contact end with a first aperture; (b) a first contact member disposed at least primarily inside the housing; and (c) a biasing member biasing the first contact member toward the first aperture. The housing contact end is coupled to at least one of the first sheet of glass and the second sheet of glass, and the contact member passes through the opening in the second sheet of glass and rests upon the first sheet of glass for receiving an impact force from the first sheet of glass. 
         [0009]    In another embodiment, an apparatus for dispersing impact forces includes a housing having a contact end with an aperture; a contact member located at least primarily inside the housing; a biasing member biasing the contact member toward the housing aperture; and means for securing the housing contact end to a surface. When an impact force is received upon the impact receiving surface, the force is at least partially transferred to the contact member, which in turn temporarily alters the biasing member, which subsequently returns the contact member to an initial position. The return of the contact member imparts a second force on the impact receiving surface, which is less than the impact force transferred to the contact member. 
         [0010]    In still another embodiment an apparatus for dispersing impact forces is provided, which includes a base, a rail, a contact member for contacting an impact receiving surface, a first biasing member located between the base and the rail, and a second biasing member located between the rail and the contact member. The first biasing member biases the rail toward a rest position and the second biasing member biases the contact member toward an initial position at the impact receiving surface. An impact force received on the impact receiving surface is at least partially transferred to the contact member, which temporarily alters the second biasing member. The contact member is subsequently returned to the initial position, which imparts a second force on the impact receiving surface. 
         [0011]    In still yet another embodiment, an apparatus for dispersing impact forces includes a base, a contact member for contacting an impact receiving surface, and a primary biasing member disposed between the base and the contact member. The primary biasing member biases the contact member toward an initial position at the impact receiving surface. An impact force received on the impact receiving surface is at least partially transferred to the contact member, which in turn temporarily alters the primary biasing member which subsequently returns the contact member to the initial position. The return of the contact member to the initial position imparts a second force on the impact receiving surface. 
         [0012]    In still a further embodiment, a window product includes a first window pane, a second window pane, and an apparatus for dispersing impact forces. The apparatus for dispersing impact forces has a base, a contact member for contacting the first window pane, and a primary biasing member disposed between the base and the contact member. The primary biasing member biases the contact member toward an initial position at the first window pane. An impact force received on the first window pane is at least partially transferred to the contact member, which in turn temporarily alters the primary biasing member which subsequently returns the contact member to the initial position. The return of the contact member to the initial position imparts a second force on the first window pane. 
         [0013]    In still another embodiment, an apparatus for dispersing impact forces is provided which includes a housing having a contact end with an aperture; a contact member located at least primarily inside the housing; a biasing member biasing the contact member toward the housing aperture; and a sensor. The housing contact end is secured to an impact receiving surface. The sensor initiates an alert when an impact force received on the impact receiving surface causes the contact member to shift a predetermined distance from an initial position. 
         [0014]    Provided in still yet another embodiment is an apparatus for dispersing impact forces having a base; a contact member for contacting an impact receiving surface; a biasing member disposed between the base and the contact member; and a sensor. The biasing member biases the contact member toward an initial position at the impact receiving surface; and the sensor initiates an alert when an impact force received on the impact receiving surface causes the contact member to shift from an initial position. 
         [0015]    In yet another embodiment, a window product includes a window pane and an apparatus for dispersing impact forces. The apparatus for dispersing impact forces has a base; a contact member positioned to receive force from the window pane; a biasing member disposed between the base and the contact member; and a sensor. The biasing member biases the contact member toward an initial position at the window pane. An impact force received on the window pane cause the contact member and the biasing member to move. The movement of the contact member or the biasing member activates the sensor, causing the sensor to initiate an alert. 
         [0016]    In still a further embodiment is provided a monitoring system having an input device, an alarm, a processor, and electronic instructions. The input device includes a housing having a contact end with an aperture; a contact member located at least primarily inside the housing; a biasing member biasing the contact member toward the housing aperture; at least one sensor; and means for securing the housing contact end to an impact receiving surface. The processor is in data communication with the sensor, and the electronic instructions, when executed by the processor, performs steps for (a) receiving at least one signal from the sensor; (b) analyzing the at least one signal to identify a triggering event; and (c) upon identifying a triggering event, actuating the alarm. 
         [0017]    In another embodiment of the present invention a system for mitigating an impact force is disclosed. The system includes a device having a first layer, a second layer, and an intervening member. The intervening member is suspended between the first and second layers via a first biasing member. A first portion of a force initially received by the first layer is transferred to the intervening member; a fraction of the force transferred to the intervening member is returned to the first layer, the fraction returned to the first layer being less than the force received by the first layer; and a second portion of the force initially received by the first layer is partially transferred to the second layer, the second portion being less than the initial force received by the first layer. 
         [0018]    In still another embodiment, a window system is disclosed. The system includes a window that has a first pane which is spatially separated from a second pane. The panes are surrounded by a window frame. The system further includes at least two muntin bars, and each muntin bar has a receiving end and an attachment end. The system may also include a first insert having at least two legs extending therefrom, and the insert includes an insert device comprising an apparatus for dispersing impact forces. A first leg of the insert is received into the receiving end of a first muntin bar and a second leg of the insert is received into the receiving end of a second muntin bar, thereby attaching the first and second muntin bars. Finally, the attachment ends of the first and second muntin bars are secured to the window frame. 
         [0019]    In still yet another embodiment, a window monitoring system has a window with a first pane spatially separated from a second pane, the panes being surrounded by a window frame; a plurality of muntin bars, each muntin bar having a receiving end and an attachment end; and at least one device incorporated into an insert having at least two legs extending therefrom. The legs of the insert are received by the receiving ends of the at least two muntin bars, and the attachment ends of the legs are attached to the window frame between the first and second window frames. 
         [0020]    The at least one device is selected from the group consisting of: a) an apparatus for dispersing impact forces, b) a camera, c) a video recording device, d) a motion sensor, e) a temperature sensor, and f) an earthquake sensor. The system further include wiring to attach the plurality of insert devices to a power source, and a memory device for storing information received from the plurality of insert devises. 
         [0021]    The apparatus for dispersing impact devices includes a first contact member for contacting the first window pane; a second contact member for contacting the second window pane; and a biasing member for biasing the first and second contact members towards the respective window pane. The biasing member biases the contact members toward an initial position at the respective window panes; and an impact force received on at least one window pane is at least partially transferred to the biasing member, thereby moving the contact members from a respective initial position, the biasing member subsequently returning the contact members to their respective initial positions, whereby the return of the contact members to the respective initial positions impacts a second force on the first window pane. 
         [0022]    In still a further embodiment, a window system includes a window having a first window pane spatially separated from a second window pane, the window panes being surrounded by a window frame; and a memory device housed in the window frame for storing electronic data. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
         [0023]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view showing an apparatus for inhibiting glass breakage according to one embodiment of the current invention, with a distal end of the apparatus visible. 
           [0024]      FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1 , with a proximal (or “contact”) end of the apparatus visible. 
           [0025]      FIG. 3  is a side view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1  in use, with various elements shown in section taken along line  3 - 3  in  FIG. 1 . 
           [0026]      FIG. 4  is a section view of the housing of  FIG. 3 . 
           [0027]      FIG. 5  is a section view showing a cushion member added inside the housing of  FIG. 4 . 
           [0028]      FIG. 6  is a perspective view showing an apparatus for inhibiting glass breakage according to another embodiment of the current invention, with a distal end of the apparatus visible. 
           [0029]      FIG. 7  is a side view of the apparatus of  FIG. 6 , with various elements shown in section taken along line  7 - 7  in  FIG. 6 . 
           [0030]      FIG. 8  is a perspective view showing an apparatus for inhibiting glass breakage according to still another embodiment of the current invention, with a distal end of the apparatus visible. 
           [0031]      FIG. 9  is a perspective view of the apparatus of  FIG. 8 , with a proximal (or “contact”) end of the apparatus visible. 
           [0032]      FIG. 10  is an exploded view of the apparatus of  FIG. 8 , with contact members and biasing members separated from a housing. 
           [0033]      FIG. 11  is a section view of the apparatus of  FIG. 8 , taken along line  11 - 11  in  FIG. 8 . 
           [0034]      FIG. 12  is a section view of one embodiment of a glass product incorporating the apparatus of  FIG. 8 . 
           [0035]      FIG. 12   a  is an exploded view showing another embodiment of the apparatus of  FIG. 8  in an example use. 
           [0036]      FIG. 13  is a perspective view showing an apparatus for inhibiting glass breakage according to yet another embodiment of the current invention, with a distal end of the apparatus visible. 
           [0037]      FIG. 14  is a perspective view of the apparatus of  FIG. 13 , with a proximal (or “contact”) end of the apparatus visible. 
           [0038]      FIG. 15  is a section view of the apparatus of  FIG. 13 , with various elements shown in section taken along line  15 - 15  in  FIG. 13 . 
           [0039]      FIG. 16  is a perspective view showing an apparatus for inhibiting glass breakage according to still yet another embodiment of the current invention. 
           [0040]      FIG. 17  is a perspective view showing a mount of the apparatus of  FIG. 16 . 
           [0041]      FIG. 18  is a section view of part of the apparatus of  FIG. 16 , with various elements shown in section. 
           [0042]      FIG. 19  is a perspective view of an apparatus for inhibiting glass breakage and a resulting glass product according to a further embodiment of the current invention. 
           [0043]      FIG. 20  is a side view of the apparatus and resulting glass product of  FIG. 19 . 
           [0044]      FIG. 21  shows an alternate base portion for use in the apparatus of  FIG. 19 . 
           [0045]      FIG. 22  is a perspective view of an apparatus for inhibiting glass breakage and a resulting glass product according to a still further embodiment of the current invention. 
           [0046]      FIG. 22   a  shows an alternate base portion for use in the apparatus of  FIG. 19 . 
           [0047]      FIG. 23  is a perspective view of an apparatus for inhibiting glass breakage and a resulting glass product according to still yet another embodiment of the current invention. 
           [0048]      FIG. 24  is a side view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1  in use, with various elements shown in section taken along line  3 - 3  in  FIG. 1 , and incorporating sensors. 
           [0049]      FIG. 25  is a side view of the apparatus of  FIG. 6 , taken along line  7 - 7  in  FIG. 6  and further incorporating sensors. 
           [0050]      FIG. 26  is a side view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1 , taken along line  3 - 3  in  FIG. 1 , showing a magnetic spring and further incorporating sensors. 
           [0051]      FIG. 27  is a section view of the apparatus of  FIG. 8 , taken along line  11 - 11  in  FIG. 8 , and further incorporating sensors. 
           [0052]      FIG. 28  is a section view of one embodiment of a glass product incorporating the apparatus of  FIG. 8  and further incorporating sensors. 
           [0053]      FIG. 29  is a section view of the apparatus of  FIG. 13 , with various elements shown in section taken along line  15 - 15  in  FIG. 13 , and further incorporating sensors. 
           [0054]      FIG. 30  is a side view of the apparatus and resulting glass product of  FIG. 19 , and further incorporating sensors. 
           [0055]      FIG. 31  is a block diagram of a system according to one embodiment of the current invention. 
           [0056]      FIG. 32  is a circuit diagram of an input device as shown in  FIG. 31 . 
           [0057]      FIG. 33  is a circuit diagram of an input device as shown in  FIG. 31  showing two switches. 
           [0058]      FIG. 34  is a perspective view of a window monitoring system incorporating various insert devices according to one embodiment of the invention. 
           [0059]      FIG. 35  is a close up perspective view of an insert device according to the invention of  FIG. 34 . 
           [0060]      FIG. 36  is a close up perspective view of the window monitoring system of  FIG. 34 . 
           [0061]      FIG. 37  is a side view of the window monitoring system of  FIG. 34 . 
           [0062]      FIG. 38  is a perspective view of the window monitoring system of  FIG. 34  showing wires incorporated into muntin bars. 
           [0063]      FIG. 39  is a perspective view of a window system incorporating a plate for projecting images according to another embodiment of the invention. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0064]      FIGS. 1 through 4  show an apparatus for inhibiting glass breakage according to one embodiment  100  of the current invention. The apparatus  100  broadly includes a housing  110 , a contact member  130 , and a biasing member  140 . 
         [0065]    The housing  110  has a contact end  112   a  opposite a distal end  112   b , and the contact end  112   a  has an aperture  115  ( FIGS. 2 through 4 ). While the housing  110  may be configured in various ways, it may be desirable for the contact end  112   a  to have a surface area that is greater than a surface area of the distal end  112   b . Such increased surface area at the contact end  112   a  may allow the housing  110  to be better coupled to a glass surface (as discussed further below) while minimizing the size of the housing  110  at the distal end  112   b . The housing  110  is shown to have a first portion  113  extending from the contact end  112   a  and a second portion  114  extending from the distal end  112   b , with each portion  113 ,  114  being generally cylindrical and extending to one another. While such configuration is currently preferred in the embodiment  100 , other geometries (conical, rectangular, octagonal, irregular geometries, more or fewer portions, et cetera) may nevertheless be used. 
         [0066]    The housing  110  may be constructed of plastic, metal, composites, and/or any other appropriate material. Moreover, various manufacturing processes may be used to form the housing, such as molding, casting, machining, and/or 3-D printing. While in some embodiments the housing  110  is formed as a unitary element, in other embodiments it may be multiple elements coupled together. For example, the first portion  113  may be fastened to the second portion  114  after each portion  113 ,  114  is formed. 
         [0067]    The contact member  130  ( FIGS. 2 and 3 ) is disposed at least primarily inside the housing  110 , and specifically in a cavity  116  defined by the housing  110 , and the biasing member  140  ( FIG. 3 ) is similarly disposed in the cavity  116  and biases the contact member  130  toward the housing aperture  115 . In the embodiment  100 , the aperture  115  is round and smaller than the contact member  130  such that the contact member  130  cannot completely pass through the aperture  115 . 
         [0068]    As shown in  FIG. 3 , it may be desirable for the contact member  130  to be generally spherical to provide a single point of contact between the contact member  130  and a sheet of glass  10  with which the apparatus  100  will be used. In addition, a spherical configuration may allow the contact member  130  to be easily seated in the housing  110  at the aperture  115 . Nevertheless, the contact member  130  may be configured to be shaped differently and the aperture  115  may be shaped complementary to the configuration of the contact member  130 . 
         [0069]    The contact member  130  may be constructed of entirely non-elastic material (e.g., metal). However, it may be desirable for the contact member  130  to be made at least partially of a resilient material such as rubber, or other materials such as glass. A rubberized coating on a non-elastic material may be particularly suitable, allowing some energy to be absorbed upon impact of the glass  10  and the contact member  130  yet transferring most of an impact force from the glass  10  to the biasing member  140 . 
         [0070]    The biasing member  140  in the embodiment  100  is a helical spring, as shown in  FIG. 3 . Other types of resilient members may alternately (or additionally) be used in different embodiments, such as a flat spring, a gas spring, a hydraulic spring, or a magnetic spring. An endcap  120  is coupled to the housing  110  to prevent the contact member  130  from exiting the housing  110 , and the biasing member  140  may abut the endcap  120 , as shown in  FIG. 3 . The housing  110  includes threading  118  ( FIGS. 3 and 4 ), and the endcap  120  includes complementary threading  122  for coupling the endcap  120  to the housing  110 . The endcap  120  may further include a passage or other element  124  for receiving a driver bit, allowing the endcap  120  to be fastened to the housing  110 . While other embodiments may use fastening methods besides threading (for example, adhesive or fusing), it may be desirable for the endcap  120  to be adjustably coupled to the housing  110 ; such adjustment may allow an amount of force on the contact member  130  provided by the biasing member  140  to be altered as desired. 
         [0071]    Various means may be included for fastening the housing contact end  112   a  to the glass  10  (which may or may not be generally planar). As shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3 , adhesive  150  may be used to couple the contact end  112   a  to the glass  10 . Especially if the housing contact end  112   a  is generally flat or otherwise not of the same curvature as the glass  10 , the adhesive  150  may be particularly desirable to fill the area between the contact end  112   a  and the glass  10  and provide a strong bond. Nevertheless, other embodiments may use magnetic fasteners, fusing processes, and other suitable fastening technology. 
         [0072]    In use, the apparatus  100  is adhered to (or otherwise coupled to) the glass  10 , as shown for example in  FIG. 3 . The biasing member  140  biases the contact member  130  toward the aperture  115 , and the contact member  130  extends through the aperture  115  and contacts the glass  10 . The system may remain in this configuration until the glass  10  receives an impact force I. For example, the glass  10  may be a windshield or a residential window, and flying debris may provide the impact force I. Upon receipt of the impact force I, the glass  10  may transfer at least a portion of the impact force I to the contact member  130 , which in turn may move from the contact end  112   a  and transfer force to the biasing member  140 . The biasing member  140  may then return to its prior configuration, moving the contact member  140  back through the aperture  115  and contacting the glass  10 . 
         [0073]    Inefficiencies in the biasing member  140 , for example, may cause less than the full amount of force transferred to the contact member  130  from the glass  10  to be returned to the glass  10 . This may be particularly advantageous if multiple apparatus  100  are used with the glass  10 . In addition, if multiple apparatus  100  are used with the glass  10 , the timing of the force transfer may vary slightly between the different apparatus  100 , allowing forces to be transferred back to the glass  10  at different times. The glass  10  may be able to withstand this staggered return of forces better than the impact force I if the multiple apparatus  100  were not utilized. 
         [0074]    To further dissipate the impact force I, a cushion  190  may be placed in the housing  110 , as shown in  FIG. 5 . In such embodiments, the cushion  190  may be initially compressed when the contact member  130  contacts the glass  10 . Upon movement of the contact member  130  away from the aperture  115  (and the cushion  190 ), the cushion  190  may expand. The cushion  190  may then absorb some force from the contact member  130  when the contact member  130  is returned to the glass  10 , causing the cushion  190  to return to the compressed configuration. 
         [0075]    The cushion  190  may be constructed of, for example, open celled polyurethane, and fast-recovery memory foam may be particularly useful. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other materials which may quickly return to their original configuration after being compressed may similarly be used. 
         [0076]    While the positioning of the apparatus  100  may vary (based, for example, on the type of glass application), in some embodiments where the glass  10  is a windshield, multiple apparatus  100  may be dispersed along a perimeter of the glass  10  and/or behind the rear view mirror so as not to unnecessarily obstruct the driver&#39;s view. 
         [0077]      FIGS. 6 and 7  show another apparatus  200  for inhibiting glass breakage that is substantially similar to the embodiment  100 , except as specifically noted and/or shown, or as would be inherent. Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the embodiment  100  (and thus the embodiment  200 ) may be modified in various ways, such as through incorporating all or part of any of the various described embodiments, for example. For uniformity and brevity, reference numbers between  200  and  299  may be used to indicate parts corresponding to those discussed above numbered between  100  and  199  (e.g., housing  210  corresponds generally to the housing  110 ), though with any noted or shown deviations. 
         [0078]    In embodiment  200 , endcap  220  is fused to housing  210 . For example, the housing  210  and the endcap  220  may be plastic coupled together through friction welding or ultrasonic welding. 
         [0079]      FIGS. 8 through 11  show another apparatus  300  for inhibiting glass breakage that is substantially similar to the embodiment  100 , except as specifically noted and/or shown, or as would be inherent. Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the embodiment  100  (and thus the embodiment  300 ) may be modified in various ways, such as through incorporating all or part of any of the various described embodiments, for example. For uniformity and brevity, reference numbers between  300  and  399  may be used to indicate parts corresponding to those discussed above numbered between  100  and  199  (e.g., housing  310  corresponds generally to the housing  110 ), though with any noted or shown deviations. 
         [0080]    In embodiment  300 , the housing  310  is sized to contain more than one of the contact members  330 . Further, as shown in  FIG. 9 , the housing contact end  312   a  has more than one of the apertures  315 , and the apparatus  300  may further include at least one cushion  390  ( FIG. 11 ) inside the housing  310  associated with each aperture  315 . While embodiment  300  has three rectangular apertures  315 , a generally rectangular contact end  312   a , and a rounded distal end  312   b , the housing  310  can be configured in various ways (as noted regarding the embodiment  100 ) and may include more or fewer apertures  315  of any appropriate shape to correspond to the contact member(s)  330 . And while the drawings show the housing  310  to be a unitary member, it may generally be formed of multiple segments coupled together during a manufacturing process. 
         [0081]    The contact members  330  are disposed at least primarily inside the housing  310 , with each of the contact members  330  being associated with (and biased toward) a respective aperture  315 . The embodiment  300  includes rectangular contact members  330  each having a recess  331  ( FIG. 11 ), and the apertures  315  are smaller than the contact members  330  such that the contact members  330  cannot completely pass through the apertures  315 . Such sizing may be particularly desirable when the apparatus  300  is for “aftermarket” use (i.e., when the glass product is not sold with the apparatus  300 ). 
         [0082]    When multiple contact members  330  are included, they may be biased toward the apertures  315  by a single biasing member  340 , or by multiple biasing members  340 . The embodiment  300  includes multiple biasing members  340 , shown to be flat springs  340   a  coupled to one another by a rail  340   b . More particularly, the embodiment  300  includes a piece of stamped metal bent to define the flat springs  340   a . While  FIG. 11  shows an upper end of a respective flat spring  340   a  touching the housing  310 , other embodiments employing flat springs  340   a  may include a spacing between the spring upper ends and the housing  310 . And, as discussed above regarding the embodiment  100 , other types of biasing members  310  may be used. 
         [0083]      FIG. 12  shows the apparatus  300  in one method of use, and a resulting glass product. First and second sheets of glass  31 ,  32  may be spaced apart or laminated together (as shown). Windshield applications, for example, may include lamination; window applications, for example, may include spacing. The second sheet of glass has at least one opening  32   a  therein, and the contact end  312   a  of the housing  310  is coupled to at least one of the sheets  31 ,  32 . One of the contact members  330  passes through a respective opening  32   a  and rests upon the first sheet  31  for receiving an impact force from the first sheet  31 . Another of the contact members  330  rests upon the second sheet  32  for receiving an impact force from the second sheet  32 . Forces from each sheet  31 ,  32  are transferred generally as described above regarding  FIGS. 1 through 5 . By receiving at least a portion of an impact force from the sheet  31 , the apparatus  300  may be better able to prevent breakage than if only the sheet  32  were contacted. 
         [0084]      FIG. 12   a  shows the apparatus  300  configured as a ribbon (i.e., with the housing  310  elongated and having a reduced distance between ends  312   a ,  312   b ) and positioned between the windshield  10  and an automobile body  2 . In such embodiments, the windshield  10  may be directly installed atop the apparatus  300 . 
         [0085]      FIGS. 13 through 15  show another apparatus  400  for inhibiting glass breakage that is substantially similar to the embodiment  100 , except as specifically noted and/or shown, or as would be inherent. Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the embodiment  100  (and thus the embodiment  400 ) may be modified in various ways, such as through incorporating all or part of any of the various described embodiments, for example. For uniformity and brevity, reference numbers between  400  and  499  may be used to indicate parts corresponding to those discussed above numbered between  100  and  199  (e.g., housing  410  corresponds generally to the housing  110 ), though with any noted or shown deviations. 
         [0086]    In embodiment  400 , the housing  410  is configured as a rear view mirror mount, such that the housing  410  may be coupled to a windshield and a rear view mirror may in turn be coupled to the housing  410 . While it may be particularly desirable for the housing  410  to be constructed of metal, other materials (e.g., plastic, ceramic, or glass) may alternately be used. The biasing member  440  shown in  FIG. 15  is another type of flat spring. But, as noted above, other types of biasing members may be used. 
         [0087]      FIGS. 16 through 18  show another apparatus  500  for inhibiting glass breakage that is substantially similar to the embodiment  100 , except as specifically noted and/or shown, or as would be inherent. Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the embodiment  100  (and thus the embodiment  500 ) may be modified in various ways, such as through incorporating all or part of any of the various described embodiments, for example. For uniformity and brevity, reference numbers between  500  and  599  may be used to indicate parts corresponding to those discussed above numbered between  100  and  199  (e.g., housing  510  corresponds generally to the housing  110 ), though with any noted or shown deviations. 
         [0088]    In embodiment  500 , the housing  510  is configured to attach to a rear view mirror mount  570 , such that the housing  510  overlays the mount  570  for example. And in the embodiment  500 , endcap  520  is shown fused to the housing  510 . The endcap  520  may extend to a mirror portion  580 , and a ball and socket joint or other structure may be utilized to allow positioning of the mirror portion  580  to be easily adjusted. In other embodiments, the housing  510  may extend to the mirror portion  580  (with any adjustment elements included), and other structure (e.g., set screws or removable plates) may be used to support the biasing member  540 . A cushion corresponding to the cushion  190  may of course be included in the housing  510 . 
         [0089]    In use, the mount  570  is coupled to a windshield, and the housing  510  is coupled to the mount  570  such that the contact member  530  passes through a hole  575  in the mount  570  and rests on the windshield. Force transfer may occur generally as set forth above to inhibit glass breakage, and the mirror portion  580  may be used in a traditional manner to improve a user&#39;s view. 
         [0090]      FIGS. 19-20  show another apparatus  600  for inhibiting glass breakage in one method of use, and a resulting glass product. First and second sheets of glass  61 ,  62  are spaced apart by a spacer  63  that includes a ledge  64 . A bonding agent (not shown) may couple the spacer  63  to the glass  61 ,  62 . The apparatus  600  includes a base portion  610 , a contact member  630 , and a biasing member  640 . In some embodiments, the base portion  610 , the contact member  630 , and the biasing member  640  are all made of a continuous, unitary material (e.g., resilient metal, resilient plastic, et cetera), either with or without an overlying coating; in other embodiments, one or more of the portions  610 ,  630 ,  640  are formed separately and coupled to the other portions (e.g., by adhesive, welding, et cetera). The base portion  610  is configured to interact with the ledge  64  to maintain the base portion  610  stationary relative to the glass  61 ,  62  and the spacer  63 . Adhesive or other fastening methods may or may not be used to further fix the base portion  610  to the spacer  63 , and distal end  610   a  of the base portion  610  may or may not extend to spacer face  63   a.    
         [0091]    Continuing, the contact member  630  abuts the glass  61 , and the biasing member  640  biases the contact member  630  toward the glass  61 . As shown in  FIGS. 19-20 , it may be desirable for the contact member  630  to be generally round to provide a single point of contact between the contact member  630  and the glass  61 . Nevertheless, the contact member  630  may be configured to be shaped differently. As with the contact member  130  described above, rubber and glass may also be suitable materials for the contact member  630 . Rubberized coatings on resilient or non-resilient materials may further be acceptable. The apparatus  600  in  FIGS. 19-20  is formed of a unitary sheet of material bent to define the base portion  610 , the contact member  630 , and the biasing member  640 , and one end of the sheet is rolled to define the contact member  630 . 
         [0092]    The biasing member  640  specifically causes the contact member  630  to impart a first force in direction F 1  on the glass  61 , and the system may remain in this configuration until the glass  61  receives an impact force in direction F 2  (e.g., imparted by flying debris). Upon receipt of the impact force F 2 , the glass  61  may transfer at least a portion of the impact force F 2  to the contact member  630 , which in turn may transfer force to the biasing member  640 . The biasing member  640  may then return part of the force F 2  to the glass  61  via the contact member  630 . In some embodiments, the contact member  630  may move from the glass  61  upon receiving the portion of the impact force F 2 . 
         [0093]    Inefficiencies in the biasing member  640 , for example, may cause less than the full amount of force transferred to the contact member  630  from the glass  61  to be returned to the glass  61 . This may be particularly advantageous if multiple apparatus  600  are used with the glass  61 . In addition, if multiple apparatus  600  are used with the glass  61 , the timing of the force transfer may vary slightly between the different apparatus  600 , allowing forces to be transferred back to the glass  61  at different times. The glass  61  may be able to withstand this staggered return of forces better than the impact force F 2  if the multiple apparatus  600  were not utilized. 
         [0094]    To further dissipate the impact force F 2 , a cushion may be coupled to the contact member  630  (e.g., using adhesive or other appropriate fastening devices and methods). In such embodiments, the cushion may be initially compressed when the contact member  630  contacts the glass  61 . Upon movement of the contact member  630  away from the glass  61 , the cushion may expand. The cushion may then absorb some force from the contact member  630  when the contact member  630  is returned to the glass  61 , causing the cushion to return to the compressed configuration. The cushion may be constructed of, for example, open celled polyurethane, and a fast-recovery memory foam may be particularly useful. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other materials which may quickly return to their original configuration after being compressed may similarly be used. 
         [0095]      FIG. 21  shows an alternate base portion  610 ′ for use in the apparatus  600 . The alternate base portion  610 ′ illustrates that various configurations may be appropriate for interacting with the ledge  64 . 
         [0096]      FIG. 22  shows the apparatus  600  for inhibiting glass breakage and a resulting glass product (slightly exploded) that is substantially similar to as described above regarding embodiment  600 , except as specifically noted and/or shown, or as would be inherent. In  FIG. 22 , the spacer  63  is not present (or at least not utilized). As such, the base portion  610  extends in a pressure fit between glass sheets  61 ,  62 . Adhesive or other fastening methods may or may not be used to further fix the base portion  610  to the glass  61 ,  62 . 
         [0097]      FIG. 22   a  shows another alternate base portion  610 ″ for use in the apparatus  600 . Here, alternate base portion  610 ″ is coupled to the glass sheet  61  (e.g., by adhesive). The alternate base portion  610 ″ illustrates that various base configurations may be appropriate for interacting with the glass  61 ,  62  (or the spacer  63 ). 
         [0098]      FIG. 23  shows another apparatus  700  for inhibiting glass breakage in one method of use that is substantially similar to embodiment  600 , except as specifically noted and/or shown, or as would be inherent. Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the embodiment  700  (and thus the embodiment  600 ) may be modified in various ways, such as through incorporating all or part of any of the various described embodiments, for example. For uniformity and brevity, reference numbers between  700  and  799  may be used to indicate parts corresponding to those discussed above numbered  600 - 699  (e.g, contact member  630  corresponds generally to contact member  730 ) though with any noted or shown deviations. In an embodiment, the apparatus  700  includes a base portion  710 , a contact member  730 , a first biasing member  740   a , a second biasing member  740   b , and a rail  760 . 
         [0099]    The rail  760  may be a piece of material extending around the perimeter of a window frame between a first sheet of glass  71  and a second sheet of glass  72  or may be, for example, a grid pattern visible through the glass  71 ,  72 . The first and second sheets of glass  71 ,  72  may be spaced apart by a spacer  73 . The base portion  710  may, for example, fit snugly within the spacer  73  between the first and second sheets of glass  71 ,  72 . The first biasing member  740   a  abuts the rail  760 . The second biasing member  740   b  extends from the rail  760  to the contact member  730 , and the contact member  730  abuts the first sheet of glass  71 . The first biasing member  740   a  biases against the rail  760 , which supports the second biasing member  740   b , which biases the contact member  730  toward the glass  71 . 
         [0100]    When a force is received against the first sheet of glass  71 , at least a portion of the force is transferred to the contact member  730 . The contact member  730  pushes against the second biasing member  740   b  which causes temporary deformation of the second biasing member  740   b  as it pushes against the rail  760  and may allow the contact member  730  to separate from the glass  71 . If the force upon the first sheet of glass  71  is great enough, then the force transferred to the rail  760  by the second biasing member  740   b  may be sufficient to cause temporary deformation of the first biasing member  740   a  and movement of the rail  760 . The first biasing member  740   a , the rail  760 , the second biasing member  740   b , and the contact member  730  may eventually each return to their initial positions. As described above, cushions may be used (e.g., with the contact member  730 ), and the amount of force transferred back to the first sheet of glass  71  may be less than the force initially received. Additionally, as set forth in  FIG. 23 , multiple base portions  710 , biasing members  740   a ,  740   b , and contact members  730  may be associated with the rail  760 . 
         [0101]      FIGS. 24-25  show another apparatus  800  for dispersing impact forces that is substantially similar to the embodiment  100 , except as specifically noted and/or shown, or as would be inherent. Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the embodiment  100  (and thus embodiment  800 ) may be modified in various ways, such as through incorporating all or part of any of the various described embodiments, for example. For uniformity and brevity, references numbers between  800  and  899  may be used to indicate parts corresponding to those discussed above numbered between  100  and  199  (e.g., housing  810  corresponds generally to housing  110 ), though with any noted or shown deviations. 
         [0102]      FIGS. 24-33  show alternative embodiments of various apparatus incorporating sensors  1000  as part of the apparatus. The sensors  1000  may, for example, be enabled to detect movement of a surface in response to a force acting upon a surface, and to cause an alert to be activated. 
         [0103]      FIGS. 24 and 25  show apparatus  100 ′,  100 ″ that are substantially similar to embodiment  100 , except as specifically noted and/or shown, or as would be inherent. In  FIG. 24 , sensors  2000  are placed at various locations inside the housing  110  such that a force acting upon the sheet of glass  10  would trigger an alert. For example, sensors  2000   a  may be disposed along the walls of the housing  110  forming the cavity  116 . The contact member  130  may be in constant contact with the sensors  2000   a . When a force I acts upon the sheet of glass  10 , the contact member  130  may be forced away from the sheet of glass  10 . When the contact member  130  loses contact with the sensors  2000   a , the sensors  2000   a  may recognize that the force I caused the contact member  130  to shift off of the sensors  2000   a , thus triggering an alert. Alternately, the sensors  1000  can be placed along the walls of the housing  110  near the upper edge of the contact member  130 , as shown at  2000   b . When the force I causes the contact member  130  to shift, the contact member  130  encounters the sensors  2000   b , thus triggering an alert. In another alternative, sensors  2000  may be placed along the walls of the housing  110  between coils in a biasing member  140  (which is a helical spring in  FIG. 24 ), as shown at  2000   c . When a force I acts upon the sheet of glass  10 , the contact member  130  is pushed against the spring  140 , and causing the coils to contract. As the coils contract, one or more of the coils may come into contact with the sensors  2000   c , thus triggering an alert. As shown in  FIG. 25 , the sensors  2000   n  may alternately be located along a contact end  11 , wherein the contact member  130  sits atop the contact end  11  and is in constant contact with the sensors  2000   n . When a force is applied to the contact end  11 , the contact member  130  loses contact with the sensors  2000   n , thus triggering an alert. 
         [0104]      FIG. 26  shows an apparatus  100 ′″ that is substantially similar to the embodiments described above with reference to  FIGS. 24-25 , except as specifically noted and/or shown, or as would be inherent. The difference between embodiment  100 ′″ and those shown in  FIGS. 24-25  is that the spring  140  in  FIG. 26  is a magnetic spring rather than a helical spring. The sensors  2000   p  in  FIG. 26  are shown in the cavity  116  of the housing  110 . When a force is received upon the sheet of glass  10 , the contact member  130  causes the magnet  140 ′ to shift upwards. The magnet  140 ′ may come into contact with the sensors  2000   p , thus triggering an alert. 
         [0105]      FIGS. 27 and 28  show an apparatus  300 ′ that is substantially similar to embodiment  300 , except as specifically noted and/or shown, or as would be inherent. Sensors  2000  may be located, for example, along the edges of the biasing member  340 , as shown at  2000   e . Alternately, sensors may be placed at various places on the biasing member  2000   f  such that movement of the biasing member triggers the sensors  2000  to initiate an alert. 
         [0106]      FIG. 29  shows an apparatus  400 ′ that is substantially similar to embodiment  400 , except as specifically noted and/or shown, or as would be inherent. Sensors  2000  may be secured, for example, behind the biasing member  440 , as shown at  2000   g , such that movement of the contact member  430  causes the biasing member  440  to contact the sensor  2000   g , thus triggering an alert. Alternately, the sensors may be located within the cushions  490  (as shown at  2000   h ), such that movement of the contact member  430  away from the cushion  490 , or a return of the contact member  490  to the cushion  490  after a force has been received, activates the sensor  2000   h . In another alternative, the sensors  2000  can be placed along the walls of the housing  410  near the upper edge of the contact member  430 , as shown at  2000   i . When the force I causes the contact member  430  to shift, the contact member  430  encounters the sensors  2000   i , thus triggering an alert. 
         [0107]      FIG. 30  shows an apparatus  600 ′ that is substantially similar to embodiment  600 , except as specifically noted and/or shown, or as would be inherent. Sensors  2000  may be provided, for example, near where the contact member  630  rests upon the glass  61 , as shown at  2000   j , such that a force F 2  received upon the glass  61  causes the contact member  630  to shift away from the glass  61 , triggering the sensors  2000   j . Alternately, the sensor may be located at the junction between the biasing member  640  and the base member  610 , as shown at  2000   k . When a force is received upon the surface of the glass  61 , the biasing member  630  may be pushed away from the surface of the glass  61 , thus engaging the sensor  2000   k . In another alternative, a sensor  1000  may be supported behind the biasing member  640 , as shown at  2000   m . Again, a force F 2  received upon the surface of the glass  61  causes the biasing member to shift, thus triggering the sensor  2000   m.    
         [0108]      FIGS. 41 and 42  show systems  1000 ′,  1000 ″ that are substantially similar to embodiment  1000 , except as specifically noted and/or shown, or as would be inherent. Sensors  2000  may be provided, for example, near the transfer members  1032 , intervening plate  1030 , and biasing members  1018 ,  1038  as shown at  2000   p  such that movement of the transfer members  1032 , intervening plate  1030 , and/or biasing members  1018 ,  1038  triggers the sensors  2000   p . Alternately, the sensors  2000  may be located somewhere along the rivet  1022  as shown at  2000   r  such that movement of the rivet  1022  triggers the sensors  2000   r . As described above, the sensors  2000  may be triggered by contact of the sensors  2000  with the transfer members  1032 , intervening plate  1030 , and/or biasing members  1018 ,  1038 , by losing contact with the sensors  2000 , or by movement alone. 
         [0109]    It shall be understood that examples depicted in  FIGS. 24-33  and described herein are exemplary only, and that the sensor(s)  2000  may be placed in any appropriate location such that movement of the biasing member caused by an impact force would cause the sensor  2000  to trigger an alert. Further, multiple sensors  2000  may be incorporated in an embodiment, and filtering criteria may be used to determine when to activate an alert. For example, an alert may be initiated only after two sensors  2000  detect movement. 
         [0110]    Additionally, the sensors  2000  may be able to detect the amount of force exerted upon the surface of the glass  61  (or other surface). For example, multiple sensors  2000  may be located at various points within or along the housing  110 . The amount of force exerted upon the contact surface may be determined by which sensor(s)  2000  are activated by movement of the contact member  130 . The amount of force required to reach each sensor  2000  may be already known, such that if the contact member  130  contacts a first sensor  2000  along the walls of the housing  110  but not a second sensor located further from the contact member  130 , the amount of force will be generally known. Alternately, the sensor(s)  2000  may be able to measure the amount of force exerted upon the contact surface and to report that information to a user. 
         [0111]      FIG. 31  illustrates a system  3000  incorporating apparatus for dispersing impact forces. The system  3000  may include an interface unit  3004  and a sensor  2000 ′ in data communication over a network  3002 . The interface unit  3004  may include a communication device  3006 , a processor  3008 , an output device  3014 , and non-transitory computer memory  3010  having programming  3012 . 
         [0112]    The output device  3014  may be any appropriate device, whether now existing or later developed, for presenting data from the processor  3008 . This may include, for example, one or more of: a printer, a monitor, a keyboard, a computer mouse, a touchpad, a speaker, a buzzer, a light, et cetera. The communication device  3006  may be any device, whether now known or later developed, that allows the system  3000  to communicate with the network  3002 . For example, the communication device  3006  may be a switch, wireless router, wired modem, et cetera. The network  3002  may be the World Wide Web, a private or local network, or a cellular network, for example. 
         [0113]    The interface unit  3004  may be, for example, a computer or smart phone associated with a monitoring system. Alternately, the interface unit  3004  may be a home alarm that alerts the homeowner that a force has been received upon a surface having an apparatus attached thereto. 
         [0114]    The sensor  2000 ′, as described above regarding the sensors  2000 , may be located in or on various apparatus for dispersing impact forces. The sensor  2000 ′ may include a transmitter  3018 , a processor  3020 , and non-transitory memory  3022  having programming  3024 . Optionally, the processor  3020 , memory  3022 , and programming  3024  may be separate from the sensor  2000 ′. 
         [0115]    In use, a force is received upon an impact surface, causing a contact member in an apparatus for dispersing impact forces (such as those described in embodiments  100 ′,  100 ″,  100 ′″,  300 ′,  400 ′, and  600 ′) to shift. The shift in the contact member to (or away from) the sensor  2000 ′ may complete a circuit  4000  shown in  FIG. 32 , as generally described above regarding sensing in  FIGS. 24-33 , and the transmitter  3018  may send an alert. In another alternative ( FIG. 33 ), the contact member may be required to activate (e.g., shift away from) a first sensor  2000 ′ and also activate (e.g., contact) a second sensor  2000 ″ before the transmitter  3018  emits an alert to the interface unit  3004 . 
         [0116]    Once an alert has been sent via the transmitter  3018 , the processor  3008  may then recognize the signal and cause the output device  3014  to alert the user that the sensor  2000 ′ has been triggered. 
         [0117]    Yet another system for monitoring activity is shown in  FIGS. 34-38 . In one embodiment, the system  5000  may include a window consisting of one or more window panes  5002  and a frame  5004 , a plurality of muntin bars  5006 , and at least one insert  5010 . 
         [0118]    As is well known in the art, muntin bars  5006  may be situated between panes of glass  5002  to provide a design element to the window. For example, muntin bars  5006  may be configured into a grid pattern (such as that shown in  FIG. 34 ), diamond pattern, “Queen Anne” pattern, etc. Typical muntin bars  5006  may be adhered together at intersects of the horizontal and vertical muntins to form the grid or other pattern. However, these muntin bars  5006  do not serve a significant functional purpose beyond increasing the aesthetics of the window. Benefits may be recognized by incorporating various technology into the window as described below. 
         [0119]    In one embodiment of the present invention, vertical and horizontal muntin bars  5006  may be attached at intersects via inserts  5008  (e.g., as shown in  FIG. 34 ). The insert  5008 , shown in a close-up in  FIG. 35 , may include four legs  5009  extending from a central portion  5010  and an insert device  5012 . Each leg  5009  may be received by an end of a muntin bar  5006  so as to connect the muntin bars  5006  together, as shown generally in  FIG. 36 . To keep the insert  5008  in place, the legs  5009  may be configured to fit snugly within the respective muntin bars  5006 . The desired design of the muntin bars  5006  between the window panes  5002  may include several intersections. Accordingly, an insert  5008  may be provided at each intersect (e.g., see  FIG. 34 ). 
         [0120]    The insert device  5012  may take various forms. As mentioned above, each pattern of muntin bars  5006  may require multiple inserts  5008 , and it may therefore be understood that more than one form of insert devices  5012  described below may be incorporated into the system  5000 . In one form, the insert devices  5012  may include various apparatus (e.g.,  100 ,  200 ,  300 ,  400 , et cetera) for dispersing impact forces as described above. Preferable apparatus for dispersing impact forces may be substantially similar to embodiments  600  and  700 . As is generally shown in  FIG. 37 , the apparatus  600  for dispersing impact forces may be situated such that contact members (e.g.,  630 ) abut both window panes  5002 . The apparatus  600  may function to disperse impact forces as described above. The apparatus  600  may additionally incorporate sensors  2000 , as described above. 
         [0121]    In another form, the insert devices  5012  may include various other types of sensors which may be incorporated into one or more inserts  5010 . Sensors may be configured to sense movement in or around the window area (e.g., motion sensors), or forces acting upon the window (e.g., contact sensors). Other types of sensors may additionally, or alternately, be incorporated into the system  5000 . For example, force sensors may be incorporated into the system  5000  which may be capable of detecting an earthquake well in advance of modern earthquake monitoring systems. Temperature sensors may be able to determine one or both of the temperature of the air outside and the temperature of the air inside the building. As described below, the temperature probe may be electrically connected to the building&#39;s comfort system such that the temperature of the building is controlled based on the probe&#39;s determination of the temperature outside. The sensor may also be a photocell sensor, for example, which may be configured to operate in conjunction with other devices, such as indoor or outdoor lights, etc. 
         [0122]    In still another form, the insert device  5012  may be a recording device such as a camera or video recorder for recording various happenings around the window. The recording device may be programmable so as to continuously monitor the area around the window. Or, the recording device may take pictures or video at predetermined time intervals. Additionally, or alternately, the recording device may be activated, for example, by a movement sensor which may cause the camera to begin taking pictures, or the video recorder to begin taking video. 
         [0123]    In one embodiment, the insert device  5012  may optionally include lights, for example, LED lights. The lights may be incorporated into the insert device  5012  in addition to, for example, the sensors or recording devices. In this way, the sensors may act to activate the lights when the sensors are activated, or the light may be activated before the recording device begins recording. Alternately, lights may be individually incorporated into the insert device  5012 . 
         [0124]    Each of the sensors, camera, recording device, et cetera may require power to operate. Accordingly, the window may be equipped with means for providing power to the various types of insert devices  5012 . For example, power may be supplied through hard-wiring means, wherein wires  5020  may be provided between the insert device  5012  and a low-voltage power source in a wall near the window (for example, the doorbell). The wires  5020  may be concealed in the muntin bars  5006 , thus allowing the wires  5020  to run from the device  5012  to the power source without being seen. Alternately, the wires  5020  may provide electricity through solar panels attached to or around the window, or from batteries stored in or around the window. In still another alternative, the insert devices  5012  may themselves be solar powered, battery operated, powered by wi-fi, et cetera, as the technology is or becomes available. 
         [0125]    In order to provide advanced monitoring, the window may be equipped with the necessary means for storing information from the various insert devices  5012 . For example, the window may be configured to receive and operate, for example, an SD card which may hold the information from the various insert devices  5012 . The SD card may be removable to allow a user to download information from the SD card and re-insert the card to continue recording information, as is known in the art.  FIG. 3  shows a slot  5014  which may be configured to receive the memory device. 
         [0126]    As described above regarding  FIGS. 24-33  with respect to the sensors  1000 ,  2000 , the various insert devices  5012  may each be equipped with the ability to communicate information over a network. In this way, information received, e.g., from the earthquake sensor, may be transmitted to a monitoring device which may be useful in alerting others to an impending earthquake. 
         [0127]    While the muntins  5006  have heretofore been described as being placed between two panes  5002  of windows, it shall be recognized by those of skill in the art that muntin bars  5006  may also be attached to the outside of the window. For example, the muntins  5006  incorporating various inserts  5008  may be configured to fit between the frame of the window for post-production window enhancement. In this way, the system  5000  may be incorporated into existing windows, thus allowing building owners to monitor happenings within the window. 
         [0128]    In another embodiment  6000  of a window system, a window  6002  may be equipped with means for displaying various projected images. An angled projecting panel  6006  may be fitted between the panes  6004  of the window, for example as shown in  FIG. 39 . The panel  6006  may be, for example, a glass pane inserted at an angle sufficient to allow an image to be projected thereon. Alternately, the panel may be plastic, plexiglass, metal, or another similar material. In still another alternative, the panel may be, for example, a retractable screen which may be constructed of vinyl or another similar material. 
         [0129]    A memory device (such as an SD card, for example) may be provided with images stored thereon. The memory device may be received by the window frame  6001 , for example at slot  6014 . The memory device may be removable in order to change the images (e.g., Thanksgiving images, Christmas images, etc). 
         [0130]    A projector  6008  may be provided within the window frame  6001  itself and have the capability to project the image  6010  (e.g., an LED image) from the memory device onto the plate  6006 . Alternately, the projector may be separate from the window and may project the image onto the plate  6006 . The projected image  6010  may be visible through the window panes  6004 . The window  6002  may be equipped with the necessary means for providing power to the projector  6008  and for transmitting the image  6010  from the memory device to the projector  6008 . The projector  6008  may be hardwired to a power source near the window, or the projector  6008  may be battery powered, solar powered, wi-fi powered, et cetera. The memory device may be hardwired to the projector  6008 . Alternately, the memory device may be configured to transmit the image over a network to the projector  6008 . 
         [0131]    Many different arrangements of the various components depicted, as well as components not shown, are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Embodiments of the present invention have been described with the intent to be illustrative rather than restrictive. Alternative embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art that do not depart from its scope. A skilled artisan may develop alternative means of implementing the aforementioned improvements without departing from the scope of the present invention. It will be understood that certain features and subcombinations are of utility and may be employed without reference to other features and subcombinations and are contemplated within the scope of the claims. Various steps in described methods may be undertaken simultaneously or in other orders than specifically provided.