Window frame insert for an existing window frame and method of using the same

A window frame insert for an existing window frame, the window frame insert comprising:

• a window pane comprising a thermoplastic polymer, one side of the window pane is a single unitary sheet, while the other side of the window pane comprises a living hinge formed into the window pane,
• wherein a length of the window pane is divided into a first portion and a second portion by the living hinge mechanism that extends across a width of the window pane from one edge to an opposite edge such that the first portion is configured to bend at the living hinge mechanism toward the second portion, and
• wherein the first portion and the second portion have a haze value of less than or equal to 5% as determined in accordance with ASTM D1003-13;
• and
• wherein an outer edge of the window pane removably attaches to the existing window frame:
• wherein the living hinge mechanism comprises four or more grooves, which extend across the width of the window pane, perpendicular to the length of the window pane;
• wherein each groove has a depth, a width, and top edges, and
• wherein the grooves are spaced apart a distance, and
• wherein the depth of the grooves, the width of the grooves, and the spacing between the grooves distance enable the first portion to bend toward the second portion, such that when the living hinge mechanism is folded, the top edges of each groove move toward each other, decreasing the width of the groove at respective groove openings, until the top edges of adjacent grooves contact each other, to provide a desired degree of bend,
• wherein the first portion is enabled to move up to 180°.