Window assembly masking bag

Abstract

The invention provides methods and equipment for storing and protecting window assemblies. In certain embodiments, there is provided a bag configured to hold a window assembly therein following the assembly's manufacture up until after the installation of the assembly. The bag is configured to be sealed and to be form-fitted to the window assembly. As such, the likelihood of the bag allowing contaminants therein or catching on something and tearing is reduced. Following the installation of the window assembly, a portion of the bag is configured for removal from the exposed surfaces of the window assembly. A portion of the bag not removed is subsequently utilized as a protective barrier for the non-exposed surfaces of the window assembly. In certain embodiments, there is provided a method for storing and protecting a window assembly using a bag of the described nature.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION [0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application 60 / 678,736, filed May 6, 2005, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates to window assemblies. More particularly, this invention relates to mechanisms used for storing and protecting the assemblies during a period of time which extends from just after the window assembly is manufactured until after the window assembly is installed. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] In most industrialized countries, it is customary for manufacturers to distribute or ship products in packages. One primary reason for using such packaging is to protect the product during shipping so that the product is received by the consumer in generally the same condition as it was when initially sent from the manufacturer. As a result, the consumer is more likely to be satisfied with the product after removing it from the packa...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007] The invention provides a method and apparatus for storing and protecting a window assembly on all exposed surfaces. The method and apparatus provide a bag that can be used following manufacture of the assembly up through the time that the window assembly is installed. The method and apparatus provide a bag configured to seal the window assembly therein and form-fit the bag to the window assembly. Following installation of the window assembly, the bag is adapted for removal from all exposed sections of the window assembly, providing a clean appearance for the exposed surfaces of the assembly and providing a protective barrier for the non-exposed surfaces of the window assembly within the installation opening.

Problems solved by technology

The window assemblies are no different from any other product in that, without adequate protection during shipping, they can become easily damaged prior to their use in the field.

Unfortunately, this type of damage is liable to occur at any time subsequent to manufacturing up until the time the window assembly is installed.

In addition, a window assembly can also become marked or stained anytime prior to or after installation.

For example, during storage after manufacture, water vapor is liable to condense on the outer surface of the assemblies.

If the frame of such assembly is made of wood, such moisture settling thereon may promote the formation of mildew, which could potentially damage the window assembly.

When painting, potential exists for paint to drip or splatter onto the pane or frame of the window assembly.

If such paint is not timely washed off or otherwise removed, the window assembly could be permanently stained.

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