System and method for protecting structures
OwnerDonald Ouimetteinventor
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Systems and methods are disclosed for protecting structures. In example embodiments, one or more waterproof barrier panels are sealed to one or more exterior walls of the structure. In other example embodiments, the barrier system comprises a plurality of sealing elements, protective panels and, optionally, tracks comprising shackles or hooks for suspending the protective panels. The barrier panel optionally comprises a thermoplastic olefin, and further optionally comprises a fire-resistant material.
Claims22
A system for protecting a structure, the system comprising:
- at least one support and attachment element for attachment to the structure, the at least one support and attachment element comprising at least one seal element defining a securing channel;
- and
- a barrier panel for attachment around at least a portion of the structure by the at least one support and attachment element, the barrier panel comprising an inflatable chamber extending along at least one edge thereof such that the at least one edge is configured to expand within the securing channel and creating a seal against the at least one support and attachment element.
A method of protecting structures, the method comprising:
- mounting at least one support and attachment element to the structure, the at least one support and attachment element defining a securing channel;
- and
- securing at least one structure protective panel having a top edge, a first side edge, a second side edge, and a bottom edge to the at least one support and attachment element,
- wherein at least one of the top edge, first side edge, second side edge, or bottom edge of the at least one structure protective panel comprises an inflatable tubing extending along at least one of the edges, wherein the at least one edge is configured for expanding within the securing channel of the at least one support and attachment element, and
- wherein at least one of the top edge, first side edge, second side edge, or bottom edge of the structure protective panel is hemmed and comprises therein the inflatable tubing.
A system for protecting a structure, the system comprising:
- a plurality of attachment members configured for attachment to a structure, the plurality of attachment members comprising a top attachment member, a bottom attachment member, a first side attachment member, and a second side attachment member, at least one of the attachment members comprising a securing channel;
- and
- a barrier panel configured for detachable mounting to the structure, the barrier panel comprising a top edge configured for releasable engagement with the top attachment member, a bottom edge opposite the top edge and configured for releasable engagement with the bottom attachment member, a first side edge configured for releasable engagement with the first side attachment member, and a second side edge opposite the first edge and configured for releasable engagement with the second side attachment member;
- wherein the barrier panel comprises at least one fluid-expansible chamber configured to expand upon receiving a pressurized fluid therein, to form a seal between the barrier panel and the securing channel of at least one of the plurality of attachment members,
- wherein the at least one fluid-expansible chamber comprises an inflatable tubing extending through a hem formed along at least one of the top edge, the bottom edge, the first side edge and the second side edge.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.