Patent Description:
In a construction environment, it is often desirable to protect an underlying bare surface (such as, for example, a wall or floor) from dust, dirt, grime, grease, bacteria, insects, animals, and any other deleterious elements. For example, in a commercial environment (such as, for example, a restaurant, cafeteria, food stand, or cleanroom) surface finishing items are generally installed over a bare surface to create a finished or working surface. Generally, such surface finishing items cover and treat bare surfaces using one or more of wall board, sheet rock, plaster, backsplashes, tile, wallpaper, carpeting, wood, paneling, vinyl, and other similar materials.

With the installation of these surface finishing items, it is typical to install conventional construction trim elements (such as, for example, baseboards, crown molding, wainscoting, door frames, and window frames) to cover or seal a transition from one surface finishing item to the other. Such conventional construction trim elements have inherent flaws that allow or promote the above-mentioned deleterious elements to accumulate or grow at the location of those conventional construction trim elements and/or contact base surfaces underlying the surface finishing items. For example, almost all of these conventional construction trim elements are installed using standard securing techniques (such as, for example, nails, staples, glues, and caulks) that are ineffective to seal the surface finishing items. Moreover, such conventional construction trim elements may degrade, peel, warp, etc. over time by using such standard securing techniques. <CIT> discloses a door frame with opposed door jambs and a door head, with the jambs and head each being formed from a metal section of channel-shape having a base wall which carries a door stop and opposed side walls of a width such that when the section is applied to a door opening within a wall with plasterboard sheeting on the wall around the opening, the opposed side walls of the section will overlap and lie closely adjacent to the outer surface of the plasterboard being concealed with the interior of the section, the opposed side walls being perforated to permit a skim coat of plaster to be applied over the side walls and adjacent part of the plasterboard to conceal the presence of the side walls. <CIT> discloses an adjustable door frame or window frame assembly whose frames and header can be installed in walls of varying thickness, the frame being comprised of two frame halves connected by a single continuous clamp and shaft that can slide in and out longitudinally. <CIT> discloses a door frame consisting of two sections, one of which has a U-shaped groove. The inside one of the two sections forming the door frame has a side with a bend in it, the edge of which is bent towards the soffit. The other door-frame section has a flange projecting into the wall-opening. <CIT> discloses a two-part steel door for a double concrete wall, with both parts able to slide together telescopically, in which a sheet steel case is divided in a plane parallel to the case plane. One of the components has a pouch-type accommodating space open to the other, for insertion of a flange on the latter. <CIT> discloses a doorway or archway structure from bent or roll-formed metal installable in dry wall construction employing wall-board panels. <CIT> discloses a one-piece metal doorframe of the type used with dry wall plaster board. <CIT> discloses an attachment adapted to form the trim or casing of a door jamb for an ordinary door, or for a window in the form of a door having hinges at one side to be attached to the jamb. <CIT> discloses a metal door frame comprising two parts, each part comprising two uprights in the same vertical plane and an upper crosspiece, the planes of the two parts being parallel and the two parts connected by spacers of adjustable length. <CIT> discloses a supporting arrangement to serve as a fluidtight or dustproof device to hold a glass pane or similar panel-like structure in its frame.

According to the invention there is provided a system and a method as defined by the appended claims.

A more complete understanding of a construction element may be derived by referring to the detailed description and claims when considered in connection with the following illustrative figures. In the following figures, like reference numbers refer to similar elements and steps throughout the figures. The frames of <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> are not according to the claimed invention , but help to understand the invention.

Elements and/or any steps among the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been rendered according to any particular sequence. For example, steps that may be performed concurrently or in different order may be illustrated in the figures to help to improve understanding of embodiments of the construction element. Moreover, elements may be constructed in various combinations and/or permutations.

For simplicity and clarity of illustration, the drawing figures illustrate the general manner of construction, and descriptions and details of well-known features and techniques may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present disclosure. Additionally, elements in the drawing figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. The same reference numerals in different figures denote the same elements.

The terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a particular sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments described herein are, for example, capable of operation in sequences other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. Furthermore, the terms "include," and "have," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus.

It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments of the apparatus, methods, and/or articles of manufacture described herein are, for example, capable of operation in other orientations than those illustrated or otherwise described herein.

The terms "couple," "coupled," "couples," "coupling," and the like should be broadly understood and refer to connecting two or more elements mechanically and/or otherwise. Two or more mechanical elements may be mechanically coupled together, but not be electrically or otherwise coupled together. Coupling may be for any length of time, e.g., permanent or semi-permanent or only for an instant. "Mechanical coupling" and the like should be broadly understood and include mechanical coupling of all types.

The absence of the word "removably," "removable," and the like near the word "coupled," and the like does not mean that the coupling, etc. in question is or is not removable.

As defined herein, two or more elements are "integral" if they are comprised of the same piece of material. As defined herein, two or more elements are "non-integral" if each is comprised of a different piece of material.

As defined herein, "approximately" can, in some embodiments, mean within plus or minus ten percent of the stated value. In the same or different embodiments, "approximately" can mean within plus or minus five percent of the stated value. In further embodiments, "approximately" can mean within plus or minus three percent of the stated value. In yet other embodiments, "approximately" can mean within plus or minus one percent of the stated value. In some embodiments, "approximately" can mean within plus or minus ten degrees of the stated value. In the same or different embodiments, "approximately" can mean within plus or minus five degrees of the stated value. In yet other embodiments, "approximately" can mean within plus or minus one degree of the stated value.

As used herein, the terms "comprise", "comprises", "comprising", "having", "including", "includes", "is" or any variation thereof, are intended to reference a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, composition, system, device, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements recited, but may also include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, composition, system, device, or apparatus. Other combinations and/or modifications of the above-described structures, arrangements, applications, proportions, elements, materials or components used in the practice of a construction element, in addition to those not specifically recited, may be varied or otherwise particularly adapted to specific environments, manufacturing specifications, design parameters or other operating requirements without departing from the general principles of the same.

A construction element may be described herein by terms of various functional elements and various method steps. Such functional elements may be realized by any number of hardware components adapted to perform generalized or specific functions to achieve various results. For example, the construction element may employ various construction element components, e.g., various materials, such as stainless steel, standard steel grades, aluminum, copper, various alloy combinations, vinyl, and any other natural and/or synthetic materials whether now known or developed in the future. Moreover, the construction element may comprise various structural configurations, for example, tongue and grooves, slots, laps, welds, snaps, latches, wells, and the like, which may carry out a variety of functions. And each structural configuration may comprise any number or permutations of configurations; for example, various scale, gauge, finish, size, geometry, surface texture, and the like may be employed.

Those skilled in the art will understand that the construction element may be practiced as part of any variety of construction elements and/or finishing applications, whether for commercial, industrial, and/or residential purpose; and any particular system, method, and/or purpose described herein is merely exemplary for the construction element. Those skilled in the art will further understand that the construction element may be practiced by any number of other applications and environments, whether now known or developed in the future. Finally, those skilled in the art will understand that the construction element may employ any number of conventional techniques for manufacturing, installing, packaging, marketing, distributing, and/or selling the construction element.

A construction element (such as, for example, baseboards, crown molding, wainscoting, door frames, and window frames) can (<NUM>) operate to seal and/or operate as a transition from one surface finishing item to another (such as, for example, wall board, sheet rock, plaster, backsplashes, tile, wallpaper, carpeting, wood, paneling, or vinyl), (<NUM>) prevent deleterious materials (such as, for example, dirt, grime, grease, bacteria, insects, or animals) from accumulating or growing at the location of the construction element, and (<NUM>) prevent the deleterious materials from contacting the base surfaces underlying the surface finishing items. The construction element can be referred to as a construction trim element.

Various representative implementations of a door frame assembly or window frame assembly can be applied to any construction system.

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary door frame assembly <NUM>. The door frame assembly is shown in a top-down view. The door frame assembly can be bent into shape from a single, integrated piece of material. The door frame assembly can be made of metal, such as <NUM> gauge <NUM> stainless steel. The door frame assembly can be made of a different type or metal or a different type of material that is malleable or pliable. The dimensions shown in <FIG> are exemplary, are shown in inches (and can be converted to centimeters by multiplying the numerical values in <FIG> by <NUM>), and can vary depending on the requirements for the door frame assembly.

The door frame assembly can replace the typical door trim that is often used around a door. For example, the door frame assembly can be inserted over an end of a wall (e.g., a doorjamb) and can be attached to the wall with mechanical fasteners such as nails, rivets, and/or screws. The door frame assembly can have holes to receive the mechanical fasteners. All or a portion of the door frame assembly can be flush with the end of the wall.

Portion <NUM> of door frame assembly <NUM> that is shown as <NUM> (<NUM> inches) wide can serve as a typical door stop for a closed door. Ends of wall coverings that cover the wall can be inserted into the upside-down U-shaped portions on the right and left sides of the door frame assembly, as shown in <FIG>. The wall coverings (not shown in <FIG>) can be made of composite materials such as fiber-reinforced plastic or fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP). The wall coverings can be made of other materials.

Turning to the next drawing, <FIG> illustrates an exploded view of an exemplary door frame assembly <NUM> at an end of wall <NUM>. The door frame assembly is shown in a top-down view. (The door frame assembly shown in <FIG> is too large for the wall shown in <FIG>, and is drawn larger than desired in <FIG> to more easily explain the concepts presented herein. ) Door frame assembly <NUM> has portions <NUM>, portions <NUM>, portions <NUM>, raised portion <NUM>, edge <NUM>, and portion <NUM>.

The door frame assembly can be bent into shape from a single, integrated piece of material. The door frame assembly can be made of a metal, such as <NUM> gauge <NUM> stainless steel. The door frame assembly can be made of a different type of metal or other material that is malleable or pliable.

The door frame assembly can replace the typical door trim that is often used around a door. For example, the door frame assembly can be inserted over an end of wall <NUM> and serve as a doorjamb. Portions <NUM> of door frame assembly <NUM> can be attached to the wall with mechanical fasteners such as nails, rivets, and/or screws. The door frame assembly can have holes at portions <NUM> to receive the mechanical fasteners.

All or a portion of the door frame assembly can be flush with the end of the wall. For example, portions <NUM> can be flush with the end of wall <NUM>, while raised portion <NUM> would not be flush with the end of the wall, as illustrated in <FIG>. In this configuration, raised portion <NUM> can provide a spring-like effect on door <NUM> if door <NUM> contacts edge <NUM> of raised portion <NUM> when door <NUM> is closing. In one example, portion <NUM> of door frame assembly <NUM> is flush with the end of wall <NUM>, and in another example, portion <NUM> is not flush with the end of wall <NUM>, similar to raised portion <NUM>, except that a distance separating portion <NUM> from the end of wall <NUM> would be smaller than a distance separating raised portion <NUM> from the end of wall <NUM>. In any of these examples, portions <NUM> of door frame assembly <NUM> can be separated from and not flush with the end of wall <NUM>, while portions <NUM> can be flush with the end of wall <NUM>.

Ends of wall coverings that cover wall <NUM> can be inserted into the upside-down U-shaped portions on the right and left sides of the door frame assembly, as indicated by portions <NUM> in <FIG>. The wall coverings (not shown in <FIG>) can be made of composite materials such as fiber-reinforced plastic or fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP). The wall coverings can be made of other materials.

A spring inside element <NUM> can be attached to the door frame assembly (and possibly the wall) using one or more mechanical fasteners such as one or more nails, rivets, and/or screws. There can be multiple springs attached to the door frame assembly in a straight line approximately every <NUM> to <NUM> (<NUM> to <NUM> feet) of the vertical dimension or the height of door frame assembly <NUM>, and one or more trim assemblies can have spring covers of element <NUM> that are aligned with and snapped onto or otherwise mechanically attached to the multiple springs to attach the one or more trim assemblies to door frame assembly <NUM>. The trim assemblies can cover portions of door frame assembly <NUM> and also can cover or not cover portions of the wall coverings. For door frame assembly <NUM>, the springs can be attached to the outer portion of portions <NUM> and/or <NUM> at only or both sides of door frame assembly <NUM>. Each spring can be approximately <NUM> to <NUM> (<NUM>/<NUM> inch to <NUM> inch) wide (or <NUM> to <NUM> (<NUM>/<NUM> inch to <NUM>/<NUM> inch) wide) and can have one or more holes to receive the one or more mechanical fasteners to attach the spring to door frame assembly <NUM>. The one or more mechanical fasteners used to attach the spring to the door frame assembly can be the same or different as the mechanical fasteners previously described to attach the door frame assembly to the wall. The door frame assembly of <FIG> also can have this feature and its variations.

In one variation, the spring covers are attached to the door frame assembly, and the springs are attached to the trim assembly. In another variation, when the wall coverings (not shown in <FIG>) are inserted into the U-shaped portions (i.e., portions <NUM>) of the door frame assembly, the springs (or spring covers) can be attached to the door frame assembly by securing the mechanical fasteners through the door frame assembly and the wall coverings.

Moving ahead in the drawings, <FIG> illustrate additional details of the door frame assembly of <FIG>. For example, a single, flat piece of material can be cut to an appropriate shape and folded or bent in a particular manner to create the door frame assembly. The dimensions shown in <FIG> are exemplary, are shown in inches (and can be converted to centimeters by multiplying the numerical values in <FIG> by <NUM>), and can vary depending on the requirements for the door frame assembly.

In <FIG>, the first or top horizontal line across the width of door frame assembly <NUM> is located at the <NUM> (<NUM> inch) mark on left side of door frame assembly <NUM>. This first horizontal line represents the location of a first bend in door frame assembly <NUM>. This first bend can be a <NUM> degree "up" bend having a <NUM> (<NUM> inch) radius.

The second-from-the-top horizontal line across the width of door frame assembly <NUM> is located at the <NUM> (<NUM> inch) mark on the left side of door frame assembly <NUM>. This second horizontal line represents the location of a second bend in door frame assembly <NUM>. This second bend can be a <NUM> degree "down" bend having a <NUM> (<NUM> inch) radius.

The third horizontal line across the width of door frame assembly <NUM> is located at the <NUM> (<NUM> inch) mark on the left side of door frame assembly <NUM>. This third horizontal line represents the location of a third bend in door frame assembly <NUM>. This third bend can be a <NUM> degree "down" bend having a <NUM> (<NUM> inch) radius.

The fourth horizontal line across the width of door frame assembly <NUM> is located at the <NUM> (<NUM> inch) mark on the left side of door frame assembly <NUM>. This fourth horizontal line represents the location of a fourth bend in door frame assembly <NUM>. This fourth bend can be a <NUM> degree "up" bend having a <NUM> (<NUM> inch) radius.

The fifth horizontal line across the width of door frame assembly <NUM> is located at the <NUM> (<NUM> inch) mark on the left side of door frame assembly <NUM>. This fifth horizontal line represents the location of a fifth bend in door frame assembly <NUM>. This fifth bend can be a <NUM> degree "down" bend having a <NUM> (<NUM> inch) radius.

The sixth horizontal line across the width of door frame assembly <NUM> is located at the <NUM> (<NUM> inch) mark on the left side of door frame assembly <NUM>. This sixth horizontal line represents the location of a sixth bend in door frame assembly <NUM>. This sixth bend can be a <NUM> degree "down" bend having a <NUM> (<NUM> inch) radius.

The seventh horizontal line across the width of door frame assembly <NUM> is located at the <NUM> (<NUM> inch) mark on the left side of door frame assembly <NUM>. This seventh horizontal line represents the location of a seventh bend in door frame assembly <NUM>. This seventh bend can be a <NUM> degree "down" bend having a <NUM> (<NUM> inch) radius.

The eighth or bottom-most horizontal line across the width of door frame assembly <NUM> is located at the <NUM> (<NUM> inch) mark on the left side of door frame assembly <NUM>. This eighth horizontal line represents the location of an eighth bend in door frame assembly <NUM>. This eighth bend can be a <NUM> degree "up" bend having a <NUM> (<NUM> inch) radius.

As one skilled in the art would understand from <FIG> and <FIG>, three door frame assemblies can be used for a single door -- a first door frame assembly on the left side of the door, a second door frame assembly on the right side of the door, and a third door frame assembly at the top of the door. The door frame assembly illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG> can be the first door frame assembly on the left side of the door. The first and second door frame assemblies can be mirror images of each other, and the third door frame assembly can be similar to the first and second door frame assemblies. The first, second, and third door frame assemblies can have edges that are complementary to each other to allow the first and third door frame assemblies to interlock or otherwise fit together and to allow the second and third door frame assemblies to similarly interlock or otherwise fit together. The joints between the first, second, and third door frame assemblies can be optionally sealed by a sealant such as caulk or silicone. This three-piece configuration can be manufactured using a casting, welding, hydro-forming, pressing, or injecting process to create a one-piece assembly. Furthermore, this three-piece configuration and the one-piece assembly also apply to the door frame assembly of <FIG>, and the three-piece configuration and one-piece assembly also can be used in a double door.

Turning to the next drawing, <FIG> illustrates an exploded view of an exemplary door frame assembly <NUM> at an end of wall <NUM>. The door frame assembly is shown in a top-down view. (The door frame assembly shown in <FIG> is too large for the wall shown in <FIG>, and is drawn larger than desired in <FIG> to more easily explain the concepts presented herein. ) Door frame assembly <NUM> has portions <NUM>, portions <NUM>, portions <NUM>, raised portion <NUM>, bump <NUM>, and portion <NUM>.

The door frame assembly can be bent into shape from a single, integrated piece of material. The door frame assembly can be made of metal, such as <NUM> gauge <NUM> stainless steel. The door frame assembly can be made of a different type of metal or other material that is malleable or pliable.

The door frame assembly of <FIG> can be similar to the door frame assemblies of <FIG>, such that the elements of <FIG> having reference numbers with the same last two digits as reference numbers in <FIG> can represent similar elements in <FIG>. However, door frame assembly <NUM> of <FIG> has a bevel profile where door <NUM> closes against portion <NUM> of door frame assembly <NUM> while the door frame assemblies of <FIG> have a more traditional door stop profile. The bevel profile of door frame assembly <NUM> of <FIG> includes bump <NUM> and raised portion <NUM>, as well as portion <NUM>, that can assist in stopping or at least slowing down a closing door. The bevel profile, including bump <NUM> and portion <NUM> which are not flush will wall <NUM>, can have a spring-like effect on the door if the door contacts the bevel profile when the door is closing.

The door frame assembly can replace the typical door trim that is often used around a door. For example, the door frame assembly of <FIG> can be inserted over an end of wall <NUM> and serve as a doorjamb. Portion <NUM> of door frame assembly <NUM> and can be attached to the wall with mechanical fasteners such as nails, rivets, and/or screws. The door frame assembly can have holes at portions <NUM> to receive the mechanical fasteners.

All or a portion of the door frame assembly can be flush with the end of the wall. For example, portions <NUM> can be flush with the end of wall <NUM>, while raised portion <NUM> and the beveled portion (including portions <NUM>-<NUM>) would not be flush with the end of the wall, as illustrated in <FIG>. All or some of the beveled portion is flush with the end of the wall. Portions <NUM> of door frame assembly <NUM> can be separated from and not flush with the end of wall <NUM>.

Ends of wall coverings (not shown in <FIG>) that cover wall <NUM> can be inserted into the upside-down U-shaped portions on the right and left sides of the door frame assembly, as indicated by portions <NUM> in <FIG>. The wall coverings can be made of composite materials such as fiber-reinforced plastic or fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP). The wall coverings can be made of other materials.

Aprings and/or spring covers inside element <NUM> can be attached to door frame assembly <NUM> (and possibly the end of wall <NUM>), similar to how springs and spring covers inside element <NUM> (<FIG>) were described above to be attached to door frame assembly <NUM> (<FIG>).

Similar to the door frame assemblies in <FIG>, the door frame assembly in <FIG> can use three door frame assemblies for a single door -- a first door frame assembly on the left side of the door, a second door frame assembly on the right side of the door, and a third door frame assembly at the top of the door. The door frame assembly illustrated in <FIG> can be the first door frame assembly on the left side of the door. The second and third door frame assemblies can be similar to the first door frame assembly, and can be more similar to each other in shape than to the first door frame assembly. The first, second, and third door frame assemblies can have edges that are complementary to each other to allow the first and third door frame assemblies to interlock or otherwise fit together and to allow the second and third door frame assemblies to similarly interlock or otherwise fit together. The joints between the first, second, and third door frame assemblies can be optionally sealed by a sealant such as caulk or silicone. This three-piece configuration can be manufactured using a casting, welding, hydro-forming, pressing, or injecting process to create a one-piece assembly. Furthermore, the three door frame assemblies and one-piece assemblies can be used in a double door configuration.

In the next drawing, <FIG> illustrates an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a door frame assembly <NUM> according to an aspect of the invention that is adjustable at an end of wall <NUM> and that has a bevel profile. The door frame assembly is shown in a top-down view.

The door frame assembly is a multi-piece assembly, where each piece is bent into its respective shape. More specifically, door frame assembly <NUM> is a two-piece assembly with portions <NUM> and <NUM>. Portion <NUM> can be the fixed side and the strike side where door <NUM> strikes door frame assembly <NUM> when closing, and portion <NUM> can be the adjustable side. Each of portions <NUM> and <NUM> have portions <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. Portion <NUM> also has raised portion <NUM>, bump <NUM>, and portion <NUM>, as well as groove <NUM>. Portion <NUM> has portion <NUM> for insertion into groove <NUM>.

Each of portions <NUM> and <NUM> is bent into shape from a single, integrated piece of material. In the same or different embodiments, each of portions <NUM> and <NUM> can be made of metal, such as <NUM> gauge <NUM> stainless steel. In other embodiments, each of portions <NUM> and <NUM> can be made of a different type of metal or other material that is malleable or pliable.

The door frame assembly of <FIG> can be similar to the door frame assemblies of <FIG>, such that the elements of <FIG> having reference numbers with the same last two digits as reference numbers in <FIG> can represent similar elements in <FIG>. Both door frame assemblies in <FIG> and <FIG> have a bevel profile where the door closes against a portion (portion <NUM> in <FIG>) of the door frame assembly, and also have a bump (bump <NUM> in <FIG>) and raised portion (portion <NUM> in <FIG>) next to the bevel profile that can assist in stopping or at least slowing down the door (door <NUM> in <FIG>) that is closing. In <FIG>, the bevel profile, including bump <NUM> and portion <NUM> which are not flush will wall <NUM>, can have a spring-like effect on door <NUM> and/or gasket <NUM> of door <NUM> if door <NUM> and/or gasket <NUM> contacts the bevel profile when door <NUM> is closing.

The door frame assembly can replace the typical door trim that is often used around a door. For example, the door frame assembly of <FIG> can be inserted over an end of wall <NUM> and serve as a doorjamb. Portions <NUM> of door frame assembly <NUM> can be attached to the wall with mechanical fasteners such as nails, rivets, and/or screws. The door frame assembly can have holes at portions <NUM> to receive the mechanical fasteners.

All or a portion of the door frame assembly can be flush with the end of the wall. <FIG> illustrates an assembled view of door frame <NUM> around the end of wall <NUM>, but the door, which has a width of approximately <NUM> (<NUM> inches) in this embodiment, in <FIG> does not have a door seal or gasket, unlike door <NUM> in <FIG>. <FIG> shows portions <NUM> of portions <NUM> and <NUM> of the door frame assembly flush with the end of the wall, and also shows part of portion <NUM> that forms groove <NUM> being flush with the end of the wall. <FIG> shows portions <NUM> of portions <NUM> and <NUM> not being flush with the end of the wall. <FIG> also shows portion <NUM> inserted into groove <NUM>.

Returning to <FIG>, ends of wall coverings (not shown in <FIG>) that cover wall <NUM> can be inserted into the upside-down U-shaped portions on the right and left sides of the door frame assembly, as indicated by portions <NUM> in <FIG>. In many embodiments, the wall coverings can be made of composite materials such as fiber-reinforced plastic or fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP). In other embodiments, the wall coverings can be made of other materials.

In a different embodiment, springs and/or spring covers inside element <NUM> can be attached to door frame assembly <NUM> (and possibly the end of wall <NUM>), similar to how springs and spring covers inside element <NUM> (<FIG>) were described above to be attached to door frame assembly <NUM> (<FIG>).

The portions <NUM> and <NUM> of the door frame assembly of <FIG> make the door frame assembly adjustable to fit different sized walls or doorjambs with different widths. <FIG> shows the door frame assembly as having gasket <NUM> that acts as a joint between portions <NUM> and <NUM> of door frame assembly <NUM>. In some embodiments, gasket <NUM> can be made of neoprene. In other embodiments, gasket <NUM> can be made of a different material that is elastic and/or can be compressed. In the same or different embodiments, the joint between portions <NUM> and <NUM> of the door frame assembly can be sealed with a material such as caulk or silicone.

Similar to the door frame assemblies in <FIG>, the embodiment of the door frame assembly in <FIG> can use three door frame assemblies for a single door -- a first door frame assembly on the left side of the door, a second door frame assembly on the right side of the door, and a third door frame assembly at the top of the door. In this embodiment, the door frame assembly illustrated in <FIG> can be the first door frame assembly on the left side of the door. The second and third door frame assemblies can be similar to the first door frame assembly, and can be more similar to each other in shape than to the first door frame assembly. The first, second, and third door frame assemblies can have edges that are complementary to each other to allow the first and third door frame assemblies to interlock or otherwise fit together and to allow the second and third door frame assemblies to similarly interlock or otherwise fit together. In another embodiment, this three-piece configuration can be manufactured using a casting, welding, hydro-forming, pressing, or injecting process to create a one-piece assembly. Furthermore, the three door frame assemblies and one-piece assemblies can be used in a double door configuration.

In assembling the door frame assemblies, portion <NUM> of the door frame assembly can be first attached to the wall, along with the corresponding pieces of the two or three other door frame assemblies on the same side of door <NUM> (<FIG>). (Two corresponding pieces can be used when the door frame assembly is not installed on the floor or on the threshold of the door, and three corresponding pieces can be used when the door frame assembly is installed on the floor. ) Next, portion <NUM> of the door frame assembly can be attached to the wall on the other side of door <NUM> (<FIG>), along with the corresponding pieces of the two or three other door frame assemblies on the other side of door <NUM> (<FIG>). Then, an optional sealant can be applied to the joints between portions <NUM> and <NUM> and the other paired portions of the two or three other door frame assemblies around door <NUM> (<FIG>). Subsequently, optional springs or spring covers can be attached to portions <NUM> and/or <NUM> and the other paired portions of the two or three other door frame assemblies, and optionally the wall, as well, and then optional trim assemblies can be attached to the optional springs or spring covers.

Jumping ahead in the drawings, <FIG> illustrates an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a door frame assembly <NUM> according to an aspect of the invention that is adjustable at an end of wall <NUM>. The door frame assembly is shown in a top-down view.

The door frame assembly is a multi-piece assembly, where each piece is bent into its respective shape. More specifically, door frame assembly <NUM> is a two-piece assembly with portions <NUM> and <NUM>. Portion <NUM> can be the fixed side and the strike side where door <NUM> strikes door frame assembly <NUM> when closing, and portion <NUM> can be the adjustable side. Each of portions <NUM> and <NUM> have portions <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. Portion <NUM> also has bump <NUM> and portion <NUM>, as well as groove <NUM>. Portion <NUM> has portion <NUM> for insertion into groove <NUM>.

Each of portions <NUM> and <NUM> is bent into shape from a single, integrated piece of material. In the same or different embodiments, each of portions <NUM> and <NUM> can be made of metal, such as <NUM> gauge <NUM> stainless steel. In other embodiments, portions <NUM> and <NUM> can be made of a different type of metal or other material that is malleable or pliable.

The door frame assembly of <FIG> can be similar to the door frame assemblies of <FIG>, such that the elements of <FIG> having reference numbers with the same last two digits as reference numbers in <FIG> can represent similar elements in <FIG>. Both door frame assemblies in <FIG> and in <FIG> are adjustable to fit different sized walls or doorjambs with different widths.

The door frame assembly can replace the typical door trim that is often used around a door. The door frame assembly of <FIG> can be inserted over an end of wall <NUM> as a doorjamb. Portions <NUM> of door frame assembly <NUM> can be attached to the wall with mechanical fasteners such as nails, rivets, and/or screws. The door frame assembly can have holes at portions <NUM> to receive the mechanical fasteners.

All or a portion of the door frame assembly can be flush with the end of the wall. When door frame assembly <NUM> is fully assembled, portions <NUM> of portions <NUM> and <NUM> can be flush with the end of wall <NUM>, and a part of portion <NUM> that forms groove <NUM> also can be flush with the end of wall <NUM>. In one embodiment, portions <NUM> are not flush with the end of wall <NUM>. Bump <NUM> is not flush with the end of wall <NUM> so that bump <NUM> can have a spring-like effect on door <NUM> if door <NUM> contacts bump <NUM> when door <NUM> is closing.

Ends of wall coverings (not shown in <FIG>) that cover wall <NUM> can be inserted into the upside-down U-shaped portions on the right and left sides of the door frame assembly, as indicated by portions <NUM> in <FIG>. In many embodiments, the wall coverings can be made of composite materials such as fiber-reinforced plastic or fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP). In other embodiments, the wall coverings can be made of other materials.

As noted above, portions <NUM> and <NUM> of the door frame assembly of <FIG> make the door frame assembly adjustable to fit different sized walls or doorjambs with different widths. <FIG> shows the door frame assembly as having a gasket <NUM> that can be used at a joint between portions <NUM> and <NUM> of door frame assembly <NUM>. In some embodiments, gasket <NUM> can be made of neoprene. In other embodiments, gasket <NUM> can be made of a different material that is elastic and/or can be compressed. In the same or different embodiments, the joint between portions <NUM> and <NUM> of the door frame assembly can be sealed with a material such as caulk or silicone.

Similar to the embodiment of the door frame assemblies in <FIG>, the embodiment of the door frame assembly in <FIG> can use three door frame assemblies for a single door -- a first door frame assembly on the left side of the door, a second door frame assembly on the right side of the door, and a third door frame assembly at the top of the door. In this embodiment, the door frame assembly illustrated in <FIG> can be the first door frame assembly on the left side of the door. The second and third door frame assemblies can be similar to the first door frame assembly, and can be more similar to each other in shape than to the first door frame assembly. The first, second, and third door frame assemblies can have edges that are complementary to each other to allow the first and third door frame assemblies to interlock or otherwise fit together and to allow the second and third door frame assemblies to similarly interlock or otherwise fit together. In another embodiment, this three-piece configuration can be manufactured using a casting, welding, hydro-forming, pressing, or injecting process to create a one-piece assembly. Furthermore, the three door frame assemblies and one-piece assemblies can be used in a double door configuration.

In assembling the door frame assemblies, portions <NUM> and <NUM> can be assembled in a manner similar to what was described above for the assembly of portions <NUM> (<FIG>) and <NUM> (<FIG>).

Continuing with the next drawing, <FIG> illustrates an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a single-paned window frame assembly <NUM> according to an aspect of the invention that is adjustable at an end of wall <NUM> and that has a bevel profile. The window frame assembly is shown in a top-down view.

The window frame assembly is a multi-piece assembly, where each piece is bent into its respective shape. More specifically, window frame assembly <NUM> is a two-piece assembly with portions <NUM> and <NUM>. Portion <NUM> can be the fixed side, and portion <NUM> can be the adjustable side. Each of portions <NUM> and <NUM> have portions <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. Portion <NUM> also has raised portion <NUM> and bump <NUM>, as well as region <NUM>. Portion <NUM> has portion <NUM> for insertion adjacent to region <NUM>.

Portions of the window frame assembly of <FIG> can be similar to the door frame assemblies of <FIG> such that elements of <FIG> having reference numbers with the same last two digits as reference numbers in <FIG> can represent similar elements in <FIG>. Both door frame assemblies in <FIG> and window frame assembly in <FIG> are adjustable to fit different sized walls with different widths.

The window frame assembly can replace the typical window trim that is often used around a window. For example, the window frame assembly of <FIG> can be inserted over an end of wall <NUM> and serve as a window frame. Portions <NUM> of window frame assembly <NUM> can be attached to the wall with mechanical fasteners such as nails, rivets, and/or screws. The window frame assembly can have holes at portions <NUM> to receive the mechanical fasteners.

All or a portion of the window frame assembly can be flush with the end of the wall. For example, when window frame assembly <NUM> is fully assembled at the end of wall <NUM>, portions <NUM> and region <NUM> can be flush with the end of wall <NUM>, and portions <NUM> can be spaced away from the end of wall <NUM>. The beveled portion (i.e., raised portion <NUM> and bump <NUM>) of portion <NUM> of the window frame assembly can be another portion of the window frame assembly that is not flush with the end of the wall to create a spring-like effect for securing window pane <NUM> to window frame assembly <NUM>. Also when fully assembled, portion <NUM> is adjacent to, overlaps, or is located within region <NUM>. Although not illustrated as such in <FIG>, region <NUM> is a groove, similar to groove <NUM> (<FIG>), and region (or groove) <NUM> has a gasket similar to gasket <NUM> (<FIG>) in groove <NUM> (<FIG>).

Ends of wall coverings (not shown in <FIG>) that cover the wall can be inserted into the upside-down U-shaped portions on the right and left sides of the window frame assembly, as indicated by portions <NUM> in <FIG>. In many embodiments, the wall coverings can be made of composite materials such as fiber-reinforced plastic or fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP). In other embodiments, the wall coverings can be made of other materials.

Although not shown in <FIG>, springs and/or spring covers can be attached to portions <NUM> and/or <NUM> of window frame assembly <NUM> (and possibly the end of wall <NUM>), similar to how springs and spring covers inside element <NUM> (<FIG>) were described above to be attached to door frame assembly <NUM> (<FIG>).

As noted above, portions <NUM> and <NUM> of the window frame assembly of <FIG> make the window frame assembly adjustable to fit different sized walls or window frames with different widths. Although not shown in <FIG>, window frame assembly <NUM> has a gasket at a joint between portions <NUM> and <NUM>, similar to the gaskets described above for the door frame assemblies in <FIG>. In some embodiments, the gasket can be made of neoprene. In other embodiments, the gasket can be made of a different material that is elastic and/or can be compressed. In some embodiments, the j oint between portions <NUM> and <NUM> of the window frame assembly can be sealed with a material such as caulk or silicone.

The embodiment of the window frame assembly in <FIG> can use four window frame assemblies for a single window -- a first window frame assembly on the left side of the window, a second window frame assembly on the right side of the window, a third window frame assembly at the top of the window, and a fourth window frame assembly at the bottom of the window. In this embodiment, the window can be square, rectangular, diamond, or another shape with four sides. In other embodiments, the window can have other shapes, and different numbers of window frame assemblies can be used accordingly. In one embodiment, the window frame assembly illustrated in <FIG> can be the same as each of the first, second, third, and fourth window frame assemblies when the window has a square shape. The first, second, third, and fourth window frame assemblies can have edges that are complementary to each other to allow the first and third window frame assemblies to interlock or otherwise fit together, to allow the first and fourth window frame assemblies to interlock or otherwise fit together, to allow the second and third window frame assemblies to similarly interlock or otherwise fit together, and to allow the second and fourth window frame assemblies to similarly interlock or otherwise fit together. This four-piece configuration can be manufactured using a casting, welding, hydro-forming, pressing, or injecting process to create a one-piece assembly.

In assembling the window frame assemblies, four of portion <NUM>, one on each of the four sides of the window and all on the same side of the wall, can be attached to the wall. Next, four of portion <NUM>, one on each of the four sides of the window and all on an opposite side of the wall, can be attached to the wall. Then, an optional sealant can be applied to the joints between the four pairs of portions <NUM> and <NUM>. Subsequently, glass or window pane <NUM> can be attached to the four window frame assemblies by using a sealant such as caulk or silicone. The sealant used to attach window pane <NUM> to the window frame assemblies can be the same or different as the sealant used to seal the joint between portions <NUM> and <NUM> of the window frame assemblies. Next, springs of glass stop <NUM> can be attached to the four window frame assemblies and possibly the wall, as well, and then coverings of glass stop <NUM> can be attached to the springs. The coverings abut against glass or window pane <NUM> to further secure the window pane between the coverings and bump <NUM>.

The one or more springs of glass stops <NUM> can be attached to the window frame assemblies (and possibly the wall) using one or more mechanical fasteners such as one or more nails, rivets, and/or screws. In this different embodiment, if the window is large enough, there can be multiple springs attached to the window frame assemblies in a straight line approximately every <NUM> to <NUM> (<NUM> to <NUM> feet) of the window frame assemblies, and the coverings of glass stops <NUM> can be snapped onto or otherwise mechanically attached to the springs. Each spring can be approximately <NUM> to <NUM> (<NUM>/<NUM> inch to <NUM> inch) wide (or <NUM> to <NUM> (<NUM>/<NUM> inch to <NUM>/<NUM> inch) wide) and can have one or more holes to receive the one or more mechanical fasteners. The one or more mechanical fasteners used to attach the spring to the window frame assembly can be the same or different as the mechanical fasteners used to attached the window frame assembly to the wall.

Moving ahead to the next drawing, <FIG> illustrates an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a single-paned window frame assembly <NUM> that is adjustable at an end of wall <NUM>. The window frame assembly is shown in a top-down view.

The window frame assembly is a multi-piece assembly, where each piece is bent into its respective shape. More specifically, window frame assembly <NUM> is a two-piece assembly with portions <NUM> and <NUM>. Portion <NUM> can be the fixed side, and portion <NUM> can be the adjustable side. Each of portions <NUM> and <NUM> have portions <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. Portion <NUM> also has bump <NUM> and portion <NUM>, as well as region <NUM>. Portion <NUM> has portion <NUM> for insertion adjacent to region <NUM>.

Each of portions <NUM> and <NUM> is bent into shape from a single, integrated piece of material. In the same or different embodiments, each of portions <NUM> and <NUM> can be made metal, such as of <NUM> gauge <NUM> stainless steel. In other embodiments, each of portions <NUM> and <NUM> can be made of a different type of metal or other material that is malleable or pliable.

The window frame assembly of <FIG> can be similar to the window frame assembly of <FIG> such that elements of <FIG> having reference numbers with the same last two digits as reference numbers in <FIG> can represent similar elements in <FIG>. Both door frame assemblies in <FIG> and in <FIG> are adjustable to fit different sized walls or window frames with different widths.

The window frame assembly can replace the typical window trim that is often used around a window. For example, the window frame assembly of <FIG> can be inserted over an end of wall <NUM> to serve as a window frame. Portions <NUM> of window frame assembly <NUM> can be attached to the wall with mechanical fasteners such as nails, rivets, and/or screws. The window frame assembly can have holes at portions <NUM> to receive the mechanical fasteners. All or a portion of the window frame assembly can be flush with the end of the wall.

All or a portion of the window frame assembly can be flush with the end of the wall. For example, when window frame assembly <NUM> is fully assembled at the end of wall <NUM>, portions <NUM> and region <NUM> can be flush with the end of wall <NUM>, and portions <NUM> can be spaced away from the end of wall <NUM>. Bump <NUM> of portion <NUM> of the window frame assembly can be another portion of the window frame assembly that is not flush with the end of the wall to create a spring-like effect for securing window pane <NUM> to window frame assembly <NUM>. Also when fully assembled, portion <NUM> is adjacent to, overlaps, or is located within region <NUM>. Although not illustrated as such in <FIG>, region <NUM> is a groove, similar to groove <NUM> (<FIG>), and region (or groove) <NUM> has a gasket similar to gasket <NUM> (<FIG>) in groove <NUM> (<FIG>).

Ends of wall coverings that cover the wall can be inserted into the upside-down U-shaped portions on the right and left sides of the window frame assembly, as indicated by portions <NUM> in <FIG>. In many embodiments, the wall coverings can be made of composite materials such as fiber-reinforced plastic or fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP). In other embodiments, the wall coverings can be made of other materials.

As noted above, portions <NUM> and <NUM> of the window frame assembly of <FIG> make the window frame assembly adjustable to fit different sized walls or window frames with different widths. Although not shown in <FIG>, window frame assembly <NUM> can have a gasket at a joint between portions <NUM> and <NUM>, similar to the gaskets described above for the door frame assemblies in <FIG>. In some embodiments, the gasket can be made of neoprene. In other embodiments, the gasket can be made of a different material that is elastic and/or can be compressed. In some embodiments, the joint between portions <NUM> and <NUM> of the window frame assembly can be sealed with a material such as caulk or silicone.

In assembling the window frame assemblies, four of portions <NUM> and <NUM> can be assembled in a manner similar to what was described above for the assembly of portions <NUM> (<FIG>) and <NUM> (<FIG>).

The one or more springs of glass stops <NUM> can be attached to the window frame assemblies (and possibly the wall) in a manner similar to what was described above for the attachment of the one or more springs of glass stops <NUM> (<FIG>).

Turning to the next drawing, <FIG> illustrates an exploded view of a double-paned window frame assembly <NUM> that is adjustable at an end of wall <NUM>. The window frame assembly is shown in a top-down view.

The window frame assembly can be a multi-piece assembly, where each piece is bent into its respective shape. More specifically, window frame assembly <NUM> can be a two-piece assembly with portions <NUM> and <NUM>. Portions <NUM> and <NUM> can be identical to each other. Each of portions <NUM> and <NUM> have portions <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>.

Each of portions <NUM> and <NUM> can be bent into shape from a single, integrated piece of material. Each of portions <NUM> and <NUM> can be made of metal, such as <NUM> gauge <NUM> stainless steel. Each of portions <NUM> and <NUM> can be made of a different type of metal or other material that is malleable or pliable.

The window frame assembly of <FIG> can be similar to the window frame assemblies of <FIG> such that elements of <FIG> having reference numbers with the same last two digits as reference numbers in <FIG> can represent similar elements in <FIG>. Both window frame assemblies in <FIG> and in <FIG> are adjustable to fit different sized walls or window frames with different widths.

The window frame assembly can replace the typical window trim that is often used around a window. For example, the window frame assembly of <FIG> can be inserted over an end of wall <NUM> to serve as a window frame. Portions <NUM> of window frame assembly <NUM> can be attached to the wall with mechanical fasteners such as nails, rivets, and/or screws. The window frame assembly can have holes at portions <NUM> to receive the mechanical fasteners.

All or a portion of the window frame assembly can be flush with the end of the wall. For example, when window frame assembly <NUM> is fully assembled at the end of wall <NUM>, portions <NUM> and portion <NUM> can be flush with the end of wall <NUM>, and portions <NUM> can be spaced away from the end of wall <NUM>.

Ends of wall coverings (not shown in <FIG>) that cover the wall can be inserted into the upside-down U-shaped portions on the right and left sides of the window frame assembly, as indicated by portions <NUM> in <FIG>. The wall coverings can be made of composite materials such as fiber-reinforced plastic or fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP). The wall coverings can be made of other materials.

As noted above, portions <NUM> and <NUM> of the window frame assembly of <FIG> make the window frame assembly adjustable to fit different sized walls or window frames with different widths.

The window frame assembly in <FIG> would use four window frame assemblies for a single window -- a first window frame assembly on the left side of the window, a second window frame assembly on the right side of the window, a third window frame assembly at the top of the window, and a fourth window frame assembly at the bottom of the window. The window can be square, rectangular, diamond, or another shape with four sides. The window can have other shapes, and different numbers of window frame assemblies can be used accordingly. The window frame assembly illustrated in <FIG> can be the same as each of the first, second, third, and fourth window frame assemblies when the window has a square shape. The first, second, third, and fourth window frame assemblies can have edges that are complementary to each other to allow the first and third window frame assemblies to interlock or otherwise fit together, to allow the first and fourth window frame assemblies to interlock or otherwise fit together, to allow the second and third window frame assemblies to similarly interlock or otherwise fit together, and to allow the second and fourth window frame assemblies to similarly interlock or otherwise fit together. This four-piece configuration can be manufactured using a casting, welding, hydro-forming, pressing, or injecting process to create a one-piece assembly.

In assembling the window frame assemblies, four of portion <NUM>, one on each of the four sides of the window and all on a first side of the wall, can be attached to the wall. The joints between the four of portion <NUM> can be optionally sealed by a sealant such as caulk or silicone. Next, a first one of the glass or window pane <NUM> can be attached to the four of portion <NUM> by using a sealant such as caulk or silicone. Then, four of interior seal <NUM> can be inserted into the window box and contacting glass or window pane <NUM>. Subsequently, glass or window pane <NUM> and four of portion <NUM>, one on each of the four sides of the window and all on a second, opposite side of the wall, can be attached to each other by using a sealant such as caulk or silicone, and also can be attached to the four of portion <NUM>, as well as to the wall. The joints between the respective adjacent four of portion <NUM> and the joints between the respective adjacent four of portion <NUM> also can be optionally sealed by a sealant such as caulk or silicone. The sealant used to attach glass or window pane <NUM> to the four of portion <NUM> and the sealant used to attached glass or window pane <NUM> to the four of portion <NUM> can be the same or different than the sealant used to seal the joints between the four of portion <NUM> and the joints between the four of portion <NUM>.

Interior seal <NUM> is located between glass or window panes <NUM> and <NUM>. Interior seal <NUM> can include a desiccant <NUM> in a single, continuous seal around the perimeter of the window and exposed to the space between glass or window panes <NUM> and <NUM>. Desiccant <NUM> can absorb moisture (including humidity) between window panes <NUM> and <NUM>. The perimeter of interior seal <NUM> comprises two or more separate seals <NUM> that can have gaps there between. Seals <NUM> can abut against glass or window panes <NUM> and <NUM>. Seals <NUM> can be made of an inert material such as rubber or silicone. The main portion of interior seal <NUM> that holds together desiccant <NUM> and seals <NUM> can be made of a composite material that does not off-gas in extreme high or low temperatures. The main portion of interior seal <NUM> can be made of an extruded material such as plastic or fiberglass. Interior seal <NUM> can be adjustable by making different main portions in different lengths, which allows double-paned window frame assembly <NUM> to be adjustable and to be used with walls of different widths.

Continuing with the last drawing, <FIG> illustrates an exploded view of a double-paned window frame assembly <NUM> that is adjustable at an end of wall <NUM>. The window frame assembly is shown in a top-down view.

Each of portions <NUM> and <NUM> can be bent into shape from a single, integrated piece of material. Each of portions <NUM> and <NUM> can be made of metal, such as <NUM> gauge <NUM> stainless steel. Portions <NUM> and <NUM> can be made of a different type of metal or other material that is malleable or pliable.

The window frame assembly in <FIG> can use four window frame assemblies for a single window -- a first window frame assembly on the left side of the window, a second window frame assembly on the right side of the window, a third window frame assembly at the top of the window, and a fourth window frame assembly at the bottom of the window. The window can be square, rectangular, diamond, or another shape with four sides. The window can have other shapes, and different numbers of window frame assemblies can be used accordingly. The window frame assembly illustrated in <FIG> can be the same as each of the first, second, third, and fourth window frame assemblies when the window has a square shape. The first, second, third, and fourth window frame assemblies can have edges that are complementary to each other to allow the first and third window frame assemblies to interlock or otherwise fit together, to allow the first and fourth window frame assemblies to interlock or otherwise fit together, to allow the second and third window frame assemblies to similarly interlock or otherwise fit together, and to allow the second and fourth window frame assemblies to similarly interlock or otherwise fit together. This four-piece configuration can be manufactured using a casting, welding, hydro-forming, pressing, or injecting process to create a one-piece assembly.

In assembling the window frame assemblies, four of portions <NUM> and <NUM>, glass or window panes <NUM> and <NUM>, and interior seal <NUM> can be assembled in a manner similar to what was described above for the assembly of portions <NUM> (<FIG>) and <NUM> (<FIG>), glass or window panes <NUM> (<FIG>) and <NUM> (<FIG>), and interior seal <NUM> (<FIG>), respectively.

Interior seal <NUM> is located between glass or window panes <NUM> and <NUM>. Interior seal <NUM> can include desiccant <NUM> in a single, continuous seal around the perimeter of the window and exposed to the space between glass or window panes <NUM> and <NUM>. Desiccant <NUM> can absorb moisture (including humidity) between window panes <NUM> and <NUM>. The perimeter of interior seal <NUM> comprises two or more separate seals <NUM> that can have gaps there between. Seals <NUM> can abut against glass or window panes <NUM> and <NUM>. Seals <NUM> can be made of an inert material such as rubber or silicone. The main portion of interior seal <NUM> that holds together desiccant <NUM> and seals <NUM> can be made of a composite material that does not off-gas in extreme high or low temperatures. The main portion of interior seal <NUM> can be made of an extruded material such as plastic or fiberglass. Interior seal <NUM> can be adjustable by making different main portions in different lengths, which allows double-paned window frame assembly <NUM> to be adjustable and to be used with walls of different widths.

In the foregoing specification, door frames, window frames, and their related methods have been described with reference to a number of exemplary embodiments. Various modifications and changes may be made, however, without departing from the scope of the construction element as set forth in the claims. The specification and figures are illustrative, rather than restrictive, and modifications are intended to be included within the scope of any construction element. Accordingly, the scope of any construction element should be determined by the claims and their legal equivalents rather than by merely the exemplary embodiments described.

For example, the steps recited in any method or process claims may be executed in any order and are not limited to the specific order presented in the claims. Additionally, the components and/or elements recited in any physical embodiment claims may be assembled or otherwise operationally configured in a variety of permutations and are accordingly not limited to the specific configuration recited in the claims.

Benefits, other advantages and solutions to problems have been described above with regard to particular embodiments; however, any benefit, advantage, solution to problem or any element that may cause any particular benefit, advantage or solution to occur or to become more pronounced are not to be construed as critical, required or essential features or components of any or all the claims.

Although the door frames, window frames, and their related methods have been described with reference to specific embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention, which is defined by the claims. Accordingly, the disclosure of embodiments is intended to be illustrative of the scope of the disclosure and is not intended to be limiting. It is intended that the scope of the invention shall be limited only to the extent required by the appended claims.

Replacement of one or more claimed elements constitutes reconstruction and not repair. Additionally, benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described with regard to specific embodiments. The benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element or elements that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced, however, are not to be construed as critical, required, or essential features or elements of any or all of the claims, unless such benefits, advantages, solutions, or elements are stated in such claim.

Claim 1:
A system comprising:
a frame assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) with a first portion (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), a second portion (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), and a gasket (<NUM>, <NUM>), wherein:
the first portion (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprises a groove (<NUM>, <NUM>) and a first U-shaped portion (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>);
the second portion (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprises a second U-shaped portion (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>);
the first U-shaped portion (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) and the second U-shaped portion (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) are upside-down U-shaped portions formed on opposite sides of the frame
assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) for receiving wall coverings when the frame assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is coupled to an end of a wall (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>);
the second portion (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is configured to fit within the groove (<NUM>, <NUM>) of the first portion (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) so that the frame assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is adjustable to fit different sized walls;
each of the first portion (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) and the second portion (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is bent into a respective shape from a respective single piece of material; and
the gasket (<NUM>, <NUM>) acts as a joint between the first portion (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) and the second portion (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) at or near the groove (<NUM>, <NUM>) of the first portion (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) when the frame assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is coupled to the end of the wall (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>).