Patent Publication Number: US-11377854-B2

Title: Curtain wall system and method

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/435,355, entitled “Curtain Wall System and Method,” filed Feb. 17, 2017, which a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/290,069, entitled “Curtain Wall System and Method,” filed May 29, 2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,631,373, issued Apr. 25, 2017, which applications are hereby incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates generally to systems and methods of construction, and more particularly to a curtain wall system and method. 
     BACKGROUND 
     In certain instances, it may be desirable to change the appearance of an exterior or interior wall. Furthermore, it may be desirable to provide an exterior covering for, or enhance the aesthetic appearance of, such a wall. The use of certain materials, such as those formed from ceramic, stone, or other suitable materials, may be desirable. In many instances, difficulties may be encountered in supporting and constructing the desired wall. Often, these difficulties may result in problems such as ill-fitting portions and an inefficient, time-consuming installation process that yields a less than desirable result. 
     SUMMARY 
     According to the present disclosure, disadvantages and problems associated with previous techniques for installing a curtain wall may be reduced or eliminated. 
     In certain embodiments, a curtain wall system is disclosed. The system includes a curtain wall member and a first curtain wall member mounting apparatus coupled to the curtain wall member at a first end of the curtain wall member. The first curtain wall member mounting apparatus includes a mounting plate and an arm having one or more projections. The first curtain wall member mounting apparatus is adapted to engage with a first curtain wall member supporting channel. The first curtain wall member supporting channel has a vertically-disposed member and a horizontally-disposed supporting member. The horizontally-disposed supporting member has a receiving-and-retaining member extending from an end opposite the vertically-disposed member. The receiving-and-retaining member is adapted to engage with a channel adjacent at least one of the one or more projections of the first curtain wall member mounting apparatus. The first curtain wall member mounting apparatus is adapted to be rotated into position such that a connection mechanism at a second end of the curtain wall member engages with a second curtain wall member supporting channel to retain the curtain wall member in position. 
     In certain embodiments, an apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus includes a mounting plate and an arm. The mounting plate has a first surface and a second serrated surface opposite the first surface. The arm has one or more projections and one or more channels adjacent to the one or more projections. 
     In certain embodiments, a method is disclosed. The method includes embedding a receiving-and-retaining member of a first curtain wall member supporting channel in a channel adjacent to one or more projections of a first curtain wall member mounting apparatus. The first curtain wall member mounting apparatus coupled to a first end of a first curtain wall member. The first curtain wall member mounting apparatus includes a mounting plate and an arm having the one or more projections. The method also includes rotating the first curtain wall member inwardly toward a second curtain wall member supporting channel such that a connection mechanism at a second end of the first curtain wall member engages with the second curtain wall member supporting channel to retain the curtain wall member in position. 
     In certain embodiments, an apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus includes a first serrated surface and a second surface opposite the first. The first serrated surface is adapted to couple to a corresponding serrated surface of an apparatus. The first serrated surface and the second surface are adapted to extend along at least a portion of the length of the corresponding serrated surface of the apparatus to provide support. The apparatus also includes an aperture and a fastener for coupling the first serrated surface to the corresponding serrated surface of the apparatus. 
     Particular embodiments of the present disclosure may provide one or more technical advantages. For example, in certain embodiments, curtain wall members may be formed of thin materials, making it impossible or impracticable to create a kerf joint for use in installing the curtain wall members. Certain embodiments of the present disclosure may advantageously make it possible to use thin pieces of ceramic tile or other suitable materials in the formation of a curtain wall. In certain embodiments, it may be desirable to adjust the fit of a curtain wall member in a curtain wall system during the installation process, without having to use shims. In certain embodiments, the present disclosure may have a built-in shimming mechanism, allowing optimal placement of a curtain wall member within a curtain wall to be determined during installation of the curtain wall member. In certain embodiments, this may be accomplished by varying the position of curtain wall member mounting apparatuses relative to other components of the curtain wall system, eliminating the need for additional components such as shims. Furthermore, it may be desirable to have the ability to preassemble components of a curtain wall system in advance of installation. For example, in certain embodiments an installer of a curtain wall system according to the present disclosure may be able to affix one or more curtain wall member mounting apparatuses to a plurality of curtain wall members in advance of installing a curtain wall. Such an approach may allow the installation process to proceed more quickly and efficiently. 
     Certain embodiments of the present disclosure may provide some, all, or none of these advantages. Certain embodiments may provide one or more other technical advantages, one or more of which may be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the figures, descriptions, and claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       To provide a more complete understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure and the features and advantages thereof, reference is made to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: 
         FIG. 1  illustrates an environmental view of an example of a curtain wall system installed in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 2  illustrates a curtain wall system constructed in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 3  illustrates an additional perspective of various details of a curtain wall system constructed in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 4A through 4C  illustrate the curtain wall installation process in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 5  illustrates the setting of a curtain wall member in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 6  illustrates placement of a latching member in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 7A and 7B  illustrate in greater detail the rotational engagement of a latching member with a curtain wall member supporting channel in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 8  shows an exploded view of various components of a curtain wall system in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 9A and 9B  illustrate elevation and section views, respectively, of a curtain wall member mounting apparatus in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIGS. 10A and 10B  illustrate elevation and section views, respectively, of a lock washer in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS 
     In many instances, it may be desirable to construct a facade along an exterior wall of a building. A curtain wall may be particularly desirable in certain circumstances, in part because of the range of materials available for use in a curtain wall system, as well as the pleasing aesthetics of such a curtain wall system. Often, however, the materials chosen for implementation in a curtain wall system are thin, making installation a challenge. Further difficulties may also be encountered in fitting the materials into a curtain wall system to achieve a desired appearance, often requiring much time and the use of additional components, such as shims, to achieve the desired result. At least certain embodiments of the present disclosure address these and potentially other deficiencies of existing systems and methods of constructing curtain walls. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates an environmental view of an example of a curtain wall system installed in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. In certain embodiments, curtain wall system  10  includes one or more curtain walls  12  formed of one or more curtain wall members  14 . Curtain wall members  14  may be composed of ceramic, stone, glass, aluminum, wood, composite graphite, or any other suitable material or combination of materials. 
       FIG. 2  illustrates curtain wall system  10  constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In particular,  FIG. 2  illustrates an example system for mounting curtain wall members  14  to a wall  12 . Wall  12  may include any suitable combination of plywood, steel or wood studs, concrete masonry units (CMOs), concrete, or any other suitable material. Other construction techniques may be used in the fabrication of wall  12  depending upon the requirements of particular applications of the present disclosure. In certain embodiments, wall  12  may be an exterior or interior wall of a building or other structure. In certain embodiments, wall  12  may be provided with a weather proof exterior layer  16 , which may be fabricated using any suitable technique. As an example, weather proof exterior layer  16  may be self-sealing tape. 
     In certain embodiments, multiple curtain wall member supporting channels  18  are secured to the wall  12 . Curtain wall member supporting channels  18  may be secured to wall  12  in any suitable manner, such as by suitable fasteners  20 . The number of fasteners  20  for affixing curtain wall member supporting channels  18  to wall  12  may vary according to a particular application of curtain wall system  10 . In certain embodiments, fasteners  20  may be placed at opposite ends of curtain wall supporting channel  18 . Such an arrangement of fasteners  20  may provide strength for dead load requirements as well as resistance to both positive and negative wind load. In certain other embodiments, curtain wall member supporting channel  18  may be secured to wall  12  using a single fastener  20 . The present disclosure contemplates the use of any suitable number of fasteners in affixing curtain wall member supporting channels  18  to wall  12 . Curtain wall member supporting channel  18  may be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials. In certain embodiments, curtain wall member supporting channels  18  may be fabricated from aluminum. Other materials, however, may be used in the fabrication of curtain wall member supporting channels  18  depending upon the requirements of particular applications of curtain wall system  10 . 
     Curtain wall member supporting channels  18  may be arranged in any suitable manner on wall  12 . In certain embodiments, multiple curtain wall member supporting channels  18  may be positioned adjacent to one another to define a curtain wall support structure that extends substantially the entire width of wall  12 . In certain embodiments, the length of a curtain wall member supporting channel  18  may extend substantially the entire width of a wall  12 . The curtain wall member supporting channels  18  may be vertically displaced along wall  12 , such that two rows of curtain wall member supporting channels affixed to wall  12  can support multiple curtain wall members  14 . In certain other embodiments, curtain wall member supporting channels  18  may be positioned at spaced apart locations along the width of the wall  12  and vertically displaced curtain wall member supporting channels  18  may be substantially parallel to one another. The present disclosure contemplates the use of any suitable arrangement of curtain wall member supporting channels  18 . 
     Each curtain wall member supporting channel  18  may include a supporting member  22 , which may extend substantially perpendicularly outwardly from wall  12 . In certain embodiments, a receiving-and-retaining member  24  may be located at and extend substantially perpendicularly upwardly from the distal end of supporting member  22 . Receiving-and-retaining member  24  may be adapted to couple to a curtain wall member mounting apparatus, described below. In certain embodiments, curtain wall member supporting channel  18  is provided with a locking member  26 . Although locking member  26  may be any suitable component, in certain embodiments locking member  26  may be referred to as a “tang.” Curtain wall member supporting channel  18  may also include a stop positioned on the underside and at the back of curtain wall member supporting channel  18 . 
     As described above, curtain wall members  14  may be composed of ceramic, stone, glass, aluminum, wood, composite graphite, or any other suitable material or combination of materials. Curtain wall members  14  may include an aperture  32 . Aperture  32  may be formed in any suitable manner. For example, aperture  32  may be formed by boring a hole through curtain wall member  14 . As another example, aperture  32  may be formed as part of a mold for creating curtain wall members  14 . 
     In certain embodiments, aperture  32  may be adapted to accept a portion of a fastener  80 . One or more curtain wall member mounting apparatuses  34  may be affixed to a surface of curtain wall member  14 . As just one example, two curtain wall member mounting apparatuses  34  may be affixed to each curtain wall member  14 , a first curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  being affixed to curtain wall member  14  at a first end and a second curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  being affixed to curtain wall member  14  at a second end. In certain embodiments, the first curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may be affixed to an upper end of curtain wall member  14 , and a second curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may be affixed to a lower end of curtain wall member  14 .  FIG. 2  illustrates an embodiment in which a first curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   a  is affixed to a lower end position of the surface of a first curtain wall member  14   a , and a second curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   b  is affixed to an upper end portion of the surface of a second curtain wall member  14   b.    
     Curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may include a mounting plate  36 , an aperture  38 , and an arm  46 . Mounting plate  36  may be adapted to couple curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  to curtain wall member  14 . Mounting plate  36  may be affixed to curtain wall member  14  by any suitable mechanism. 
     Mounting plate  36  may have any suitable shape, according to particular needs. Additionally, mounting plate  36  may have any suitable contours, according to particular needs. Mounting plate  36  may have a first surface  40  and a second surface  42  opposite the first surface  40 . First surface  40  may be adapted to rest substantially flush against curtain wall member  14 , though the present disclosure contemplates there being any suitable intervening components or materials. In certain embodiments, second surface  42  may be serrated. Second serrated surface  42  may be adapted to couple to a portion of a lock washer  70 , or some other suitable component for affixing curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  to curtain wall member  14 . The present disclosure contemplates that mounting plate  36  may be affixed to curtain wall member  14  using any suitable mechanism. 
     Mounting plate  36  may include an aperture  38 . In certain embodiments, aperture  38  may be a slip slot. Aperture  38  may be adapted to allow mounting plate  36  to couple to curtain wall member  14  using any suitable fastener. Aperture  38  may be any suitable shape. As one example, aperture  38  may be oval shaped. Aperture  38  may be adapted to accept a portion of a fastener  80 . As an example, aperture  38  may be adapted to accept a bolt. Aperture  38  may be adapted to align with aperture  32  in curtain wall member  14 . In certain embodiments, the dimensions of aperture  38  may allow for tolerance in affixing curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  to curtain wall member  14 . Built-in tolerance of aperture  38  may be advantageous in certain embodiments, such as where the location for affixing curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  to curtain wall member  14  is subject to variation. As an example, the built-in tolerance of aperture  38  may alleviate problems associated with the location of aperture  32  in curtain wall member  14  being subject to variation within a certain range as a result of particular manufacturing processes. 
     Arm  46  may extend from one end of mounting plate  36 . In certain embodiments, when curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  is affixed to curtain wall member  14 , arm  46  may extend toward wall  12 . Arm  46  may extend perpendicular from mounting plate  36  and may have any suitable length, according to particular needs. 
     In certain embodiments, arm  46  may include one or more projections  48 . In certain embodiments, projections  48  are substantially perpendicular to arm  46  and may be substantially vertically disposed when curtain wall member  14  is installed. In certain embodiments, projections  48  appear as teeth of a comb or tines of a fork. 
     Projections  48  may be spaced apart by one or more gaps such that one or more channels  50  are created adjacent to the one or more projections  48 . In certain embodiments, curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may be oriented such that the distal end of the one or more projections  48  align with a first end of curtain wall member  14 . In certain other embodiments, projections  48  may align with a second end of curtain wall member  14 . Projections  48  may have varying dimensions depending on the particular application of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34 . In certain embodiments, the one or more projections  48  may be spaced evenly across arm  36  such that the one or more channels  50  adjacent projections  48  have the same width. 
     Curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may be adapted to couple to curtain wall member supporting channel  18  via projections  48  and channels  50 . The one or more channels  50  of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may be adapted to accept receiving-and-retaining member  24  of curtain wall member supporting channel  18 . The dimensions of the one or more channels  50  may correspond to the dimensions of receiving-and-retaining member  24 . The dimensions of channels  50  may vary according to the particular application of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34 . As an example, the dimensions of the one or more channels  50  created adjacent projections  48  may be determined based at least in part on the dimensions of receiving-and-retaining member  24 . As a particular example, the one or more channels  50  created adjacent projections  48  may be at least wide enough for receiving-and-retaining member  24  to be inserted into channel  50 , but narrow enough to prevent significant movement of curtain wall member mounting apparatus once mounted. 
     In certain embodiments, the use of multiple projections  48  to create a plurality of adjacent channels  50  creates a built-in shimming mechanism, which may allow an installer to vary the positioning of receiving-and-retaining member  24  in curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34 . Such an embodiment may advantageously allow an installer to vary the position of curtain wall member  14  relative to receiving-and-retaining member  24  and curtain wall member supporting channel  18 . As an example, embedding receiving-and-retaining member  24  in a first channel  50  may result in curtain wall member  14  failing to fit appropriately flush with a surface of curtain wall  10 . By positioning receiving-and-retaining member  24  in a second channel  50 , a better fit for curtain wall member  14  within curtain wall  10  may be achieved. Such an approach, therefore, may advantageously reduce or eliminate the need for traditional shimming techniques, which generally required the use of plastic shims in wall  12 . 
     In certain embodiments, projections  48  and one or more adjacent channels  50  of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may be adapted to couple to latching member  54 . Latching member  54  may include a nominally horizontally-disposed latching arm  60  and a nominally vertically-disposed locating-and-retaining member  58  located at a first end of the nominally horizontally-disposed latching arm  60 . In certain embodiments, latching member  54  may include one or more knobs  56  along a surface of nominally horizontally-disposed latching arm  60 . Latching member  54  may also have a connection mechanism  62  positioned at a second end of latching member  54 . In certain embodiments, connection mechanism  62  may be a latch. In certain other embodiments, latching member  54  may have any suitable connection mechanism. 
     Locating-and-retaining member  58  may extend from a first end of the nominally horizontally-disposed latching arm  60  and may be adapted to engage curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34 . Curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may couple with locating-and-retaining member  58  of latching member  54  via projections  48  and one or more channels  50 . One or more channels  50  may be adapted to accept locating-and-retaining member  58 . In certain embodiments, the dimensions of the one or more channels  50  may be determined based on the dimensions of locating-and-retaining member  58 . In certain embodiments, one or more channels  50  may have a suitable width for receiving both locating-and-retaining member  58  and receiving-and-retaining member  24 . Such an embodiment may provide the advantage of allowing curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  to couple to either receiving-and-retaining member  24  or locating-and-retaining member  58  without modification. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, providing a plurality  30  of channels  50  may have the advantage of allowing the fit of curtain wall member  14  within curtain wall  10  to be optimized. As described above, such an embodiment eliminates the need for traditional shimming approaches, which may allow curtain wall members  14  to be installed more efficiently, without requiring additional components such as shims. 
     When the optimal channel  50  for positioning locating-and-retaining member  58  is determined, locating-and-retaining member  58  may be secured in the selected channel  50 . As an example, locating-and-retaining member  58  may be secured in the selected channel  50  by joint sealant  52 . In certain embodiments, joint sealant  52  may be low modulus silicone. In certain other embodiments, joint sealant  52  may be adhesive. The present disclosure contemplates any suitable manner of securing locating-and-retaining member  58  in the determined channel  50 . 
     In certain embodiments, foam tape  64  may be secured beneath the end of nominally horizontally-disposed latching arm  60 . Foam tape  64  may be positioned adjacent locating-and-retaining member  58 . In certain embodiments, foam tape  64  may be placed adjacent a marking on the nominally horizontally-disposed latching arm  60  of latching member  54 . The marking on latching member  54  may provide for easier installation of foam tape  64 . Foam tape  64  may be operable to compress. In certain embodiments, foam tape  64  may compress as latching member  54  and connection mechanism  62  rotate into locking member  26  of curtain wall member supporting channel  18  during installation. Once latching member  54  is locked in place in locking member  26 , foam tape  64  may decompress, thereby holding latching member  54  flush against supporting member  22  of curtain wall member supporting channel  18 . In certain embodiments, knobs  56  may abut supporting member  22 . In conjunction with foam tape  64 , knobs  56  formed on the nominally horizontally-disposed latching arm  60  of latching member  54  may advantageously help maintain proper alignment between the arm  56  and the supporting member  22 . Foam tape  64  may hold latching member  54  in place until the joint sealant  52 , such as low modulus silicone, sets to hold latching member  54  in place. In certain embodiments, foam tape  64  may be adapted to decompose after a period of time. The present disclosure contemplates foam tape  64  being formed of any suitable material. 
     Mounting plate  36  of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may be affixed to curtain wall member  14  by any suitable mechanism. In certain embodiments, mounting plate  36  may be affixed to curtain wall member  14  using a lock washer  70 . Lock washer  70  may have a first serrated surface  72  and a second surface  74 . In certain embodiments, first serrated surface  72  may be adapted to couple to second serrated surface  42  of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34 . As an example, the serrated surfaces of first serrated surface  72  and second serrated surface  42  may interlock to reduce or eliminate vertical slipping. In certain embodiments, lock washer  70  may have a length adapted to provide adequate support to mounting plate  36  when lock washer  70  is coupled to curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34 . In certain embodiments, lock washer  70  may be adapted to hard load against fastener  80 . In certain embodiments, interaction of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  with lock washer  70  may provide the ability to adjust the position of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  and then hard load with lock washer  70 . 
     Lock washer  70  may include an aperture  76 . Aperture  76  may be adapted to fit around a portion of a fastener  80 , which may include a bolt or other suitable fastener. In certain embodiments, the diameter of aperture  76  may be substantially the same as the diameter of fastener  80 . In certain embodiments, aperture  76  of lock washer  70  may be adapted to align with aperture  38  of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34 . Lock washer  70  may secure curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  to curtain wall  30  using any suitable fastener  80 . As an example, fastener  80  may include the GSE Type M6X6 Expansion Bolt System. Lock washer  70  may be adapted for a variety of uses, especially those which require hard loading with a slip slot aperture. 
     After installing multiple curtain wall members  14 , a gap  88  may be formed between adjacent curtain wall members  14 . In certain embodiments, gap  88  may be filled with any suitable gap-filling substance  89 . Gap-filling substance  89  may comprise any suitable component or combination of components. As an example, and as illustrated in  FIG. 2 , gap-filling substance  89  may be a backer rod formed of foam. In certain embodiments, gap-filling substance  89  may be or include silicone, such as low modulus silicone. In certain embodiments, gap-filling substance  89  may reduce or prevent moisture penetration, provide additional strength and stability to curtain wall members  14 , and provide a cushion allowing some movement by curtain wall members  14  due to wind load, foundation settlement, earthquakes, hurricanes, and the like. 
     The dimensions of the various components of curtain wall system  10  may vary according to particular applications. The present disclosure contemplates that the various components of curtain wall system  10  may have any suitable dimensions. In certain embodiments, the dimensions of the various components of curtain wall system  10  may be different from those illustrated in  FIG. 2 . 
     The present disclosure contemplates the addition of any further structural supporting elements throughout the system. For example, the curtain wall system could include one or more supporting braces on curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34 . As an example, curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may include a supporting brace. In certain embodiments, a supporting brace may extend from a point on mounting plate  36  to a point near the distal end of arm  46 . In certain embodiments, a supporting brace may be formed from the same material as other components of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34 , or may be formed from any suitable material. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates an additional perspective view of various details of a curtain wall system  10  constructed in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. The curtain wall system illustrated in  FIG. 3  is oriented in the opposite direction of that shown in  FIG. 2 , such that fasteners  20  would connect to a wall or structure (not shown). Additionally, this perspective view further illustrates details of the various components of curtain wall system  10 . 
       FIGS. 4A through 4C  illustrate the curtain wall installation process in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.  FIG. 4A  shows a curtain wall member  14  at an initial stage of the installation process. In certain embodiments, curtain wall member  14  may have a pair of curtain wall member mounting apparatuses  34   a  and  34   b  affixed to a surface of curtain wall member  14  using lock washers  70   a  and  70   b  and fasteners  80   a  and  80   b , respectively. In certain embodiments, and as illustrated in  FIG. 4A-C , the projections  48  of curtain wall member mounting apparatuses  34   a  and  34   b  may align with opposite ends of curtain wall member  14 . Depending on the particular application, however, in certain embodiments projections  48  may not align with an end of curtain wall member  14 . 
     In certain embodiments, curtain wall member mounting apparatuses  34   a  and  34   b  may be affixed to curtain wall members  14  prior to installation. As one example, curtain wall member mounting apparatuses  34   a  and  34   b  may be affixed to curtain wall members  14  the night before curtain wall  12  is to be constructed. Affixing curtain wall member mounting apparatuses  34   a  and  34   b  to curtain wall members  14  may allow the installation process to proceed more efficiently. In certain embodiments, the process of affixing curtain wall member mounting apparatuses  34   a  and  34   b  to curtain wall members  14  may be improved as a result of built-in tolerance in aperture  38 . An installer may desire that aperture  38  of curtain wall member mounting apparatuses  34   a  and  34   b  align with aperture  32  of curtain wall member  14 . The location of aperture  32  on curtain wall member  14  may vary among each curtain wall member. In affixing curtain wall member mounting apparatuses  34   a  and  34   b  to curtain wall member  14 , the built-in tolerance of aperture  38  may allow an installer to consistently and appropriately position curtain wall member mounting apparatuses  34   a  and  34   b  despite variations in aperture  32  of curtain wall members  14 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 4A , curtain wall member  14  may couple to curtain wall member supporting channel  18  via partial insertion of receiving-and-retaining member  24  in one of one or more channels  50  created adjacent projections  48  of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   a . In certain embodiments, having a plurality of channels  50  adjacent projections  48  provides a built-in shimming mechanism that allows for adjustment of the fit of curtain wall member  14  without the need for separate shims. As one example, coupling receiving-and-retaining member  24  to curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   a  in a first channel  50  may result in a poor fit of curtain wall member  14  in curtain wall  10 . In such a case, an installer may adjust the fit of curtain wall member  14  in curtain wall  10  by selecting a different channel  50  for use in coupling curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  to receiving-and-retaining member  24 . This process may be repeated until the channel  50  is determined that provides an acceptable fit for curtain wall member  14  in curtain wall  10 . 
     Also shown in  FIG. 4A  is latching member  54  coupled to curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   b . Latching member  54  may be coupled to curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   b  by inserting locating-and-retaining member  58  of latching member  54  in one of the one or more channels  50  adjacent projections  48  of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   b . Latching member  54  may be coupled to curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   b  during the installation process. For example, latching member  54  may be coupled to curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   b  after the proper placement of receiving-and-retaining member  24  is determined in the one or more channels  50  of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   a . In certain other embodiments, latching member  54  may be coupled to curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   b  prior to coupling curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   a  to receiving-and-retaining member  24 . 
     The use of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   b  having a plurality of channels  50  adjacent projections  48  may provide a built-in shimming mechanism. As one example, coupling locating-and-retaining member  58  to curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   b  in a first channel  50  may result in a poor fit for curtain wall member  14  in curtain wall  10 . In such a case, an installer may adjust the fit of curtain wall member  14  in curtain wall system  10  by selecting a different channel  50  to couple curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   b  to locating-and-retaining member  58 . This process may be repeated until the channel  50  providing a correct fit for curtain wall member  14  in curtain wall  10  is determined. In certain embodiments, foam tape  64  may be affixed to latching member  54  such that foam tape  64  is located between latching member  54  and projections  48  of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   b . In certain embodiments, locating-and-retaining member  58  may be secured in the determined channel  50  using joint sealant  52 . 
     With curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   a  coupled to curtain wall member supporting channel  18  via receiving-and-retaining member  24 , and latching member  54  coupled to curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   b  via locating-and retaining member  58 , installation may proceed. In certain embodiments, curtain wall member  14  may be rotated inward in the direction of arrow  90  toward curtain wall member supporting channel  18   b . As curtain wall member  14  is rotated in the direction of arrow  90 , latching member  54  may contact a supporting member  22   b  of curtain wall member supporting channel  18   b.    
     In certain embodiments, the use of curtain wall member mounting apparatuses  34  may be advantageous because it does not require the formation of kerf joints in curtain wall members  14  for positioning a component on curtain wall member  14  that is used to mount curtain wall member  14 . This may be desirable in certain embodiments wherein curtain wall members  14  may be thin, so that the forming of a kerf joint may be impossible or impractical. 
       FIG. 4B  illustrates the next stage of installation as curtain wall member  14  is rotated into place. As curtain wall member  14  is rotated inward in the direction of arrow  90 , receiving-and-retaining member  24  may move more completely into the determined channel  50  of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   a . As curtain wall member  14  is rotated inward in the direction of arrow  90 , connection mechanism  62  or another portion of latching member  54 , such as knobs  56 , may contact the bottom surface of supporting member  22   b  of curtain wall member supporting channel  18 . The contact of latching member  54  with the bottom portion of supporting channel  22   b  may flex latching arm  60  downward, causing foam tape  64  to compress. Curtain wall member  14  may continue to be rotated inward in the direction of arrow  90  until connection mechanism  62  engages with locking member  26  of curtain wall member supporting channel  18 . In certain embodiments, the distance between a lower surface of supporting member  22  and locking member  26  is sufficient to allow connection mechanism  62  to fit through as curtain wall member  14  is rotated inward in the direction of arrow  90 . 
       FIG. 4C  illustrates the next stage of installation of curtain wall member  14 . In certain embodiments, once latching member  54  is locked in place in locking member  26 , foam tape  64  may decompress, ensuring proper alignment of latching member  54  against support member  22   b . In certain embodiments, foam tape  64  beneath latching member  54  forces latching member  54  to become flush with supporting member  22   b , setting latching member in proper engagement position. In certain embodiments, foam tape  64  may continue to hold latching member  54  in place until joint sealant  52  sets to hold latching member  54  in place. In certain embodiments, knobs  56  of nominally horizontally-disposed latching arm  60  may abut supporting member  22   b  of curtain wall member supporting channel  18   b . In certain embodiments, knobs  56  on nominally horizontally-disposed latching arm  60  of latching member  54  may advantageously help maintain proper alignment between the nominally horizontally-disposed latching arm  60  and supporting member  22   b.    
     During installation, the resulting fit of curtain wall member  14  in curtain wall  10  may not be acceptable. In certain circumstances, ill-fitting curtain wall member  14  may cause wall waffle. As described above in relation to  FIG. 4A , the built in shimming mechanism of curtain wall member mounting apparatuses  34   a  and  34   b  may advantageously allow for adjustment of the fit of curtain wall member  14  without using separate shims. In certain embodiments, the fit of a curtain wall member  14  may be corrected by adjusting the position of receiving-and-retaining member  24  in curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   a , without additional shimming on the substrate side. By positioning receiving-and-retaining member in a different channel  50  adjacent the projections  48  of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   a , a better fit may be obtained. Similarly, the fit of curtain of wall member  30  may be adjusted by re-positioning locating-and-retaining member  58  in a different channel  50  adjacent the projections  48  of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   b . Depending on the circumstances, one or both of the positions of receiving-and-retaining member  24  or locating-and-retaining member  58  may be adjusted to obtain a better fit for curtain wall member  14  in curtain wall  10 . 
       FIG. 5  illustrates the setting of a curtain wall member  14  in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. A first curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   a  may be affixed to one end of curtain wall member  14   a  via lock washer  70  and fastener  80 . In certain embodiments, and as illustrated in  FIG. 5 , curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   a  may be oriented such that projections  48  of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   a  align with an end of curtain wall member  14 . In certain other embodiments, however, projections  48  of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   a  need not align with an end of curtain wall member  14 . 
     Curtain wall member  14   a  may be coupled to supporting member  22  of curtain wall member supporting channel  18  by receiving-and-retaining member  24 . During installation, curtain wall member  14  may move in the direction illustrated by arrow  92  such that one of the one or more channels  50  created adjacent projections  48  is aligned to accept receiving-and-retaining member  24 . In certain embodiments, during the initial stage of installation, receiving-and-retaining member  24  may be partially inserted in one of the one or more channels  50 . As curtain wall member  14  rotationally engages with curtain wall member supporting channel  18 , receiving-and-retaining member  24  may be further inserted in the determined channel  50 . 
     Also shown in  FIG. 5  is a second curtain wall member  14   b  installed in curtain wall  10 . In certain embodiments, a second curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   b  may be affixed to an end of curtain wall member  14   b . Latching member  54  may be coupled to curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   b  using locating-and-retaining member  58 . Connection mechanism  62  of latching member  54  may be engaged with locking member  26  of curtain wall supporting channel  18 . Foam tape  64  may be decompressed, forcing latching member  54  into proper alignment with supporting member  22  of curtain wall member supporting channel  18 . Knobs  56  of latching member  54  may contact supporting member  22 . In certain embodiments, joint sealant  52  may secure locating-and-retaining member  58  in place. Over time, foam tape  64  may decompose, leaving latching member  54  secured by joint sealant  52 . 
       FIG. 6  illustrates placement of a latching member  54  in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. Curtain wall member  14  may have a curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  affixed to it using lock washer  70  and fastener  80 . In certain embodiments, projections  48  may be aligned with an end of curtain wall member  14 . In certain embodiments, latching member  54  may be coupled to curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  using locating-and-retaining member  58 . Locating-and-retaining member  58  may be adapted to fit into multiple channels  50  created adjacent projections  48 . Although locating-and-retaining member  58  is shown aligned with a single channel  50  adjacent projections  48  (illustrated by arrow  94 ), locating-and-retaining member  58  may be adapted to couple to curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  using a plurality of channels  50 , which may allow for adjustment of the position of curtain wall member  14  in curtain wall  10 . 
     In certain embodiments, the placement of locating-and-retaining member  58  in curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may be adjusted to provide a proper fit for curtain wall member  14  in curtain wall  10 , providing a built-in shimming mechanism that reduces or eliminates the need for shims. When the proper channel  50  is determined, joint sealant  52  may be applied to the determined channel  50 . Joint sealant  52  may be applied in any suitable way. As one example, locating-and-retaining member  58  may be removed from the determined channel  50  so that joint sealant  52  may be applied before placing locating-and-retaining member  58  back in the determined channel  50 . In certain embodiments, joint sealant  52  may be adapted to secure locating-and-retaining member  58  in the determined channel  50 . Joint sealant  52  may be any suitable material. As one example, joint sealant  52  may be low modulus silicone. 
     During installation, foam tape  64  may compress as curtain wall member  14  is rotated inward toward curtain wall member supporting channel  18 , and then decompress once latching member  54  has engaged locking member  26  via connection mechanism  62 . Decompression of foam tape  64  may ensure proper alignment of latching member  54  against supporting member  22  while joint sealant  52  sets. In certain embodiments, upon setting joint sealant  52  may hold latching member  54  in place. In certain embodiments, foam tape  64  may eventually decompose. 
       FIGS. 7A and 7B  illustrate in greater detail the rotational engagement of latching member  54  with a curtain wall member supporting channel  18  in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. More particularly,  FIG. 7A  illustrates the rotation of latching member  54 , and  FIG. 7B  illustrates latching member  54  engaging with curtain wall member supporting channel  18 . In certain embodiments, before rotationally engaging curtain wall member  14  into curtain wall member supporting channel  18 , locating-and-retaining member  58  of latching member  54  is positioned in one of the one or more channels  50  adjacent the one-or more projections  48  of arm  46  of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   b . The position of locating-and-retaining member  58  in the one or more channels  50  may be adjusted while installing curtain wall member  14  to ensure a proper fit of curtain wall member  14  in curtain wall  1   0 . In certain embodiments, curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may be affixed to curtain wall members  14  before beginning installation of curtain wall  10 , allowing the actual installation process to proceed faster. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 7A , an upper curtain wall member  14   a  may be supported on a curtain wall member supporting channel  18  by receiving-and-retaining member  24  received in one of the one or more channels  50  of a curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   a . Latching member  54  may be coupled to a second curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   b  affixed to a lower curtain wall member  14   b  by positioning locating-and-retaining member  58  of latching member  54  in one of the one or more channels  50  of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34   b  affixed to lower curtain wall member  14   b . In certain embodiments, locating-and-retaining member  58  may be secured in the channel  50  by a quantity of silicone. 
     As lower curtain wall member  14   b  is rotated inwardly toward curtain wall member supporting channel  18 , connection mechanism  62  of latching member  54  may contact the bottom surface of supporting channel  22  of curtain wall member supporting channel  18 . As lower curtain wall member  14   b  continues to rotate inwardly, continued contact of supporting channel  22  by connection mechanism  62  may cause foam tape  64  to compress, allowing latching member  54  and connection mechanism  62  to rotate into locking member  26  of curtain wall member supporting channel  18 . In certain embodiments, compression of foam tape  64  may allow connection mechanism  62  to move past locking member  26 . As foam tape  64  decompresses, the angle of nominally horizontally-disposed latching arm  60  may be shifted so that it becomes flush with support member  22  of curtain wall member supporting channel  18 . In certain embodiments, decompression of foam tape  64  may cause connection mechanism  62  to rotate downward and become secured by locking member  26 . In certain embodiments, further inward movement of the lower curtain wall member  14   b  is prevented by engagement of the distal end of connection mechanism  62  with a stop of channel  18 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 7B , once latching member  54  is locked in place in locking member  26 , foam tape  64  may decompress, thereby holding the latching member  54  flush against the support member  22  until the joint sealant  52  sets to hold the latching member  54  in place. In certain embodiments, knobs  56  of nominally horizontally-disposed latching arm  60  may abut supporting member  22  of curtain wall member supporting channel  18 . In certain embodiments, knobs  56  formed on the nominally horizontally-disposed latching arm  60  of latching member  54  may advantageously maintain proper alignment between the arm  56  and the supporting member  22 . 
       FIG. 8  shows an exploded view of various components of curtain wall system  10  in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. In certain embodiments, curtain wall system  10  may include a curtain wall member supporting channel  18 , curtain wall member  14 , curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34 , and lock washer  70 . In certain embodiments, curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may be adapted to couple to a surface of curtain wall member  14 . Curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may have a mounting plate  36 , an aperture  38 , and an arm  46 . Curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may be adapted to couple to curtain wall member  14  using a fastener  80  accepted through aperture  38  of mounting plate  36 . In certain embodiments, curtain wall member  14  may have an aperture  32 . Aperture  32  may be designed to accept a portion of a fastener  80 . 
     Serrated first surface  72  of lock washer  70  may be adapted to couple with second serrated surface  42  of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34 . For example, the serrated edges of serrated first surface  72  and serrated surface  42  may interlock. When serrated first surface  72  and second serrated surface  42  are coupled, aperture  38  of mounting plate  36  and aperture  76  of lock washer  70  may align. In coupling curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  to curtain wall member  14 , apertures  38  and  76  may align with aperture  32  of curtain wall member  14 . Apertures  38 ,  76 , and  32  may accept a portion of a fastener  80 . Fastener  80  may be any suitable fastener. In certain embodiments, fastener  80  may include a bolt  82 , a receiving portion  84 , and a nut  86 . In certain embodiments, the diameter of fastener  80  may be substantially the same as the diameter of aperture  76  of lock washer  70 . In certain embodiments, receiving portion  84  may be an undercut plug anchor. In certain other embodiments, receiving portion  84  may be a receiving component such as the one included in the GSE Type M6X6 Expansion Bolt System. Upon coupling to curtain wall member  14 , projections  48  of arm  46  may align with an end of curtain wall member  14 . 
     Arm  46  may extend from one end of mounting plate  36 . In certain embodiments, arm  46  may extend substantially perpendicularly from mounting plate  36 . Arm  46  may include one or more projections  48 . Projections  48  may be spaced apart by one or more gaps such that one or more channels  50  are created adjacent to the one or more projections  48 . In certain embodiments, curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may be oriented such that the distal end of the one or more projections  48  align with a first end of curtain wall member  14 . Projections  48  may have varying dimensions depending on the particular application of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34 . In certain embodiments, the one or more projections  48  may be spaced evenly across arm  36  such that the one or more channels  50  adjacent projections  48  have the same width. 
     Curtain wall member supporting channel  18  may be adapted to couple to a wall using a plurality of fasteners  20 . Fasteners  20  may be any suitable fasteners. As an example, fasteners  20  may be screws. Curtain wall member supporting channel  18  may have a supporting member  22 . In certain embodiments, supporting member  22  may extend substantially perpendicularly outwardly from a wall. A receiving-and-retaining member  24  may be located at and extend substantially perpendicularly from the distal end of supporting member  22 . In certain embodiments, curtain wall member supporting channel  18  is includes a locking member  26 . Locking member  26  may be adapted to couple with a connection mechanism  62  of latching member  54 . 
     Curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may be adapted to couple to curtain wall member supporting channel  18  via projections  48  and the one or more adjacent channels  50 . In certain embodiments, the one or more channels  50  may be adapted to accept receiving-and-retaining member  24 . The dimensions of channels  50  may correspond to the dimensions of receiving-and-retaining member  24 . The dimensions of the one or more channels  50  may vary according to the particular application of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34 . As an example, the dimensions of the one or more channels  50  adjacent projections  48  may be determined based at least in part on the dimensions of receiving-retaining-member  24 . Although  FIG. 8  illustrates receiving-and-retaining member  24  aligned with a particular channel  50 , receiving-and-retaining member  24  may be adapted to couple to curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  using more than one of the one or more channels  50 . In certain embodiments, the use of plurality of projections  48  to create a plurality of adjacent channels  50  creates a built-in shimming mechanism, which may allow an installer to vary the positioning of receiving-and-retaining member  24  in curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34 . Such an embodiment may advantageously allow an installer to vary the position of curtain wall member  14  relative to receiving-and-retaining member  24  and curtain wall member supporting channel  18 . As an example, embedding receiving-and-retaining member  24  in a first channel  50  may result in curtain wall member  14  failing to fit appropriately flush with a surface of curtain wall  10 . By positioning receiving-and-retaining member  24  in a second channel  50 , a better fit for curtain wall member  14  may be achieved. The channel  50  providing the best fit may be determined during installation, and the placement of receiving-and-retaining member varied accordingly. 
     Also shown in  FIG. 8  is an exploded view of latching member  54  in relation to curtain wall member supporting channel  18 . In certain embodiments, latching member  54  includes a nominally horizontally-disposed latching arm  60  and a vertically-disposed locating-and-retaining member  58  located at a first end of horizontally disposed portion  60 . Nominally horizontally-disposed latching arm  60  may include one or more knobs  56 . Although  FIG. 8  illustrates a single curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  with its projections  48  oriented downward for coupling to receiving-and-retaining member  24 , in certain embodiments a curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may also be affixed to a curtain wall member  14  such that the projections  48  are oriented upward. In such an embodiment, the projections  48  and one or more adjacent channels  50  may be adapted to couple to latching member  54 . Latching member  54  may couple to a curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  via locating-and-retaining member  58 . Locating-and-retaining member  58  may couple to curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  in a manner similar to that of receiving-and-retaining member  24  described above. In certain embodiments, locating-and-retaining member  58  is adapted to couple to curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  via projections  48  and one or more adjacent channels  50 . Once the channel  50  providing the best fit for curtain wall member  14  is determined, locating-and-retaining member  58  may be secured using joint sealant  52 . 
     Latching member  54  may be adapted to couple to curtain wall member supporting channel  18 . Latching member  54  may couple to curtain wall member supporting channel  18  at locking member  26  via connection mechanism  62  positioned at a second end of latching member  54 . Connection mechanism  62  may be any suitable connection mechanism. As an example, connection mechanism  62  may be a latch. 
     In certain embodiments, foam tape  64  may be secured beneath the nominally horizontally-disposed latching arm  60  of latching member  54 . Nominally horizontally-disposed latching arm  60  may include a mark indicating where foam tape  64  should be placed. In certain embodiments, foam tape  64  may be secured adjacent locating-and-retaining member  58 . Foam tape  64  may be operable to compress to allow latching member  54  and connection mechanism  62  to rotate into locking member  26  of curtain wall member supporting channel  18 . Once latching member  54  is locked in place, foam tape  64  may decompress, thereby holding latching member  54  snugly against support member  22  of curtain wall member supporting channel  18 . In certain embodiments, knobs  56  may abut nominally horizontally-disposed latching arm  60 . In certain embodiments, knobs  56  formed on the nominally horizontally-disposed latching arm  60  of latching member  54  may advantageously maintain proper alignment between the nominally horizontally-disposed latching arm  60  and the supporting member  22 . As an example, foam tape  64  may hold latching member  54  in place until low modulus silicone  52  sets to hold the latching member  54  in place. In certain embodiments, foam tape  64  may be adapted to decompose after a certain period of time. The present disclosure contemplates that foam tape  64  may be formed of any suitable material. 
       FIGS. 9A and 9B  illustrate elevation and section views, respectively, of a curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.  FIG. 9A  illustrates an elevation view of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. In certain embodiments, curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may include a mounting plate  36  and an arm  46 . 
     Mounting plate  36  may have a first surface  40  and a second surface  42  opposite the first surface  40 . In certain embodiments, second surface  42  may be serrated. Second serrated surface  42  may be adapted to couple to a corresponding serrated surface of a lock washer or other suitable fastener. The dimensions of mounting plate  36  may vary depending on the particular application of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34 . The present disclosure contemplates that mounting plate  36  may have any suitable dimensions. 
     Mounting plate  36  may include an aperture  38 . Aperture  38  may be adapted to allow mounting plate  36  to couple to a curtain wall member using any suitable fastener. Aperture  38  may be any suitable shape. As an example, aperture  38  may have a substantially oval shape. Aperture  38  may be adapted to accept a portion of a fastener  80 . As an example, aperture  38  may be adapted to accept a bolt. Aperture  38  may be adapted to align with an aperture of a curtain wall member. The dimensions of aperture  38  may vary depending on the particular application of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34 , and may allow for tolerance in affixing curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  to curtain wall member  14 . In certain embodiments, built-in tolerance of aperture  38  may be advantageous. As an example, the built-in tolerance may be advantageous in circumstances where the location of a corresponding aperture in a curtain wall member is subject to variation. 
     Arm  46  may extend from one end of mounting plate  36 . In certain embodiments, arm  46  may extend substantially perpendicularly from mounting plate  36 . Arm  46  may include one or more projections  48 . Projections may be arranged such that one or more channels are created adjacent to the one or more projections. The dimensions of arm  46  and projections  48  may vary depending on the particular application of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34 . 
       FIG. 9B  illustrates a section view of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. In certain embodiments, curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may include a mounting plate  36  and an arm  46 . 
     Mounting plate  36  may have a first surface  40  and a second surface  42  opposite the first surface  40 . In certain embodiments, second surface  42  may be serrated. Second serrated surface  42  may be adapted to couple to a corresponding serrated surface of a lock washer or other suitable fastener. Mounting plate  36  may also include an aperture  38 . 
     Arm  46  may extend from one end of mounting plate  36 . In certain embodiments, arm  46  may extend substantially perpendicularly from mounting plate  36 . Arm  46  may include one or more projections  48 . The one or more projections  48  may be spaced apart by one or more gaps such that one or more channels  50  are created adjacent to the one or more projections  48 . In certain embodiments, the one or more projections  48  may be spaced evenly across arm  36  such that the one or more channels  50  adjacent projections  48  have the same width. 
     In certain embodiments, curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may be adapted to couple to a curtain wall member supporting channel  18  using projections  48  and channels  50 . In certain embodiments, the one or more channels  50  may be adapted to accept a receiving-and-retaining member  24  of a curtain wall member supporting channel  18 . The dimensions of the one or more channels  50  may correspond to the dimensions of receiving-and-retaining member  24 . The dimensions of channels  50  may vary according to the particular application of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34 . As an example, the dimensions of the one or more channels  50  created adjacent projections  48  may be determined based at least in part on the dimensions of receiving-retaining-member  24 . In certain other embodiments, curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may couple to locating-and-retaining member  58  in a similar fashion. In certain embodiments, locating-and-retaining member  58  may have the same dimensions as receiving-and-retaining member  24 . 
     In certain embodiments, the use of a plurality of projections  48  to create a plurality of adjacent channels  50  creates a built-in shimming mechanism, which may allow an installer to vary the positioning of receiving-and-retaining member  24  or locating-and-retaining member  58  in curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34 . Such an embodiment may advantageously allow an installer to vary the position of curtain wall member  14  relative to receiving-and-retaining member  24  and curtain wall member supporting channel  18  by selecting from among the one or more channels  50  the one that provides the best fit for curtain wall member  14 . The  20  dimensions of arm  46  and projections  48  may vary depending on the particular application of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34 . 
     The dimensions of the various components of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may vary according to particular applications. The present disclosure contemplates that the various components of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may have any suitable dimensions. In certain embodiments, the dimensions of the various components of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  may be different from those illustrated in  FIGS. 9A and 9B . 
       FIGS. 10A and 10B  illustrate elevation and section views, respectively, of a lock washer  70  in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.  FIG. 10A  illustrates an elevation view of lock washer  70  in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Lock washer  70  may include a serrated first surface  72  and a second surface  74  opposite the serrated first surface  72 . In certain embodiments, serrated first surface  72  may be adapted to couple to second serrated surface  42  of a curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34 . Lock washer  70  may be of any suitable dimensions. In certain embodiments, the dimensions of lock washer  70  may be adapted to provide support to mounting plate  36  of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34 . In certain embodiments, lock washer  70  may be adapted to hard load against a fastener. Lock washer  70  may also include an aperture  76 . Aperture  76  may be adapted to align with aperture  38  of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34 . Aperture  76  may be adapted to fit around a portion of a fastener, which may include a bolt. Lock washer  70  may secure curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34  to curtain wall member  14  using any suitable fastener. 
       FIG. 10B  illustrates a section view of lock washer  70  in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Lock washer  70  may include a serrated first surface  72  and a second surface  74 . In certain embodiments, serrated first surface  72  may be adapted to couple to a second serrated surface  42  of curtain wall member mounting apparatus  34 . Lock washer  70  may include an aperture  76 . 
     The dimensions of lock washer  70  may vary according to particular applications. The present disclosure contemplates that lock washer  70  may have any suitable dimensions. In certain embodiments, the dimensions of lock washer  70  may be different from those illustrated in  FIGS. 10A and 10B . 
     Although the present disclosure has been described with several embodiments, a myriad of changes, variations, alterations, transformations, and modifications may be suggested to one skilled in the art, and it is intended that the present disclosure encompass such changes, variations, alterations, transformation, and modifications as they fall within the scope of the appended claims. Although the figures and accompanying description may describe a curtain wall system in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure that is oriented in a particular direction, the present disclosure contemplates that the orientation of the curtain wall system and its various components may be varied in any suitable manner. As an example, the described supporting structures may be modified such that the orientation of the curtain wall system is substantially flipped.