HIDDEN DRAINAGE FUNNEL

Description

BACKGROUND

Commercial buildings, such as storefronts and high-rise buildings, have a building façade or façade assembly that constitutes the outside or external face of the building. Example façade assemblies include curtain walls, panel façades, and window walls that include vents (e.g., pivoting, sliding, and swinging windows). Along with the roof, façade assemblies are one of the most important elements of a building since they act as the primary barrier against external weather elements, such as rain, snow, wind, frost, sun, etc., which could damage the interior and overall integrity of the building.

Façade assemblies must also be water-resistant to prevent the migration of moisture into the interior of the building. Accordingly, proper and efficient water drainage from façade assemblies is essential, but aesthetic considerations also play an important part in the architectural design of façade assemblies. Water drainage systems in conventional façade assemblies, for example, can be either visible or hidden. Visible water drainage systems can harm the aesthetics of the façade, thus most building owners and occupants prefer hidden drainage options. Various hidden drainage options exist but are often complex to implement, particularly in the case of drainage through a transom, which often results in only “partially”hidden drains or drainage channels.

What is needed is improved hidden drainage options for façade assemblies.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Various details of the present disclosure are hereinafter summarized to provide a basic understanding. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure and is neither intended to identify certain elements of the disclosure, nor to delineate the scope thereof. Rather, the primary purpose of this summary is to present some concepts of the disclosure in a simplified form prior to the more detailed description that is presented hereinafter.

Embodiments disclosed herein include a transom assembly for a façade assembly of a building, the transom assembly including a transom that defines an interior including a lower glazing pocket, a lower glazing assembly partially received within the lower glazing pocket, and a drainage funnel arranged within the interior. The drainage funnel including a body having opposing upper and lower ends, the lower end laterally interposing a bottom of the transom and the lower glazing assembly, an upper opening defined at the upper end, a lower opening defined at the lower end, and an inner flow path extending between the upper and lower openings, wherein water accumulated within the interior drains from the interior to an exterior environment of the building through the inner flow path. In a further embodiment of the transom assembly, the transom is a composite profile that includes an exterior portion exposed to the exterior environment of the building, an interior portion exposed to an interior of the building, and a thermal break extending between and interconnecting the exterior and interior portions. In another further embodiment of the transom assembly, the transom assembly includes a lower exterior gasket interposing the bottom of the transom and the lower glazing assembly, wherein a gap is defined in the lower exterior gasket to accommodate the lower end of the drainage funnel. In another further embodiment of the transom assembly, a section of the bottom of the transom is milled and aligned with the gap to accommodate the lower end of the drainage funnel. In another further embodiment of the transom assembly, the transom provides a horizontal structural member that separates the interior into a plurality of chambers, and wherein the upper opening is aligned with an aperture defined in the horizontal structural member to thereby facilitate water flow from the interior to the inner flow path. In another further embodiment of the transom assembly, the drainage funnel further comprises one or more lateral tabs extending laterally outward from the body at the upper end, one or more mechanical fasteners extendable through the one or more lateral tabs and into the horizontal structural member to secure the drainage funnel to the transom, and a seal included with each mechanical fastener to facilitate a sealed interface between the horizontal structural member and the one or more lateral tabs at the location of the one or more mechanical fasteners. In another further embodiment of the transom assembly, the transom provides a shoulder within the interior and the drainage funnel further provides a projection engageable with the shoulder to help secure the drainage funnel within the interior. In another further embodiment of the transom assembly, the transom provides a shoulder within the interior and the drainage funnel further provides one or more lateral arms extending from the body and engageable with the shoulder to help secure the drainage funnel within the interior. In another further embodiment of the transom assembly, the drainage funnel further comprises an adhesive that secures the drainage funnel to the transom within the interior. In another further embodiment, the transom assembly includes a sealing member arranged between the drainage funnel and the lower glazing assembly.

Embodiments disclosed herein may further includes a drainage funnel for a façade assembly of a building, the drainage funnel including a body having opposing upper and lower ends, an upper opening defined at the upper end, a lower opening defined at the lower end, and an inner flow path extending between the upper and lower openings, wherein the body is arrangeable within an interior of a transom such that the lower end laterally interposes a bottom of the transom and a lower glazing assembly partially received within the interior, and wherein water accumulated within the interior drains from the interior to an exterior environment of the building through the inner flow path. In a further embodiment, the drainage funnel further includes one or more lateral tabs extending laterally outward from the body at the upper end, one or more mechanical fasteners extendable through the one or more lateral tabs and into a horizontal structural member of the transom to secure the drainage funnel to the transom, and a seal included with each mechanical fastener to facilitate a sealed interface between the horizontal structural member and the one or more lateral tabs at the location of the one or more mechanical fasteners. In another further embodiment, the one or more lateral tabs each define a recess sized to receive the seal. In another further embodiment, the body provides opposing side walls that extend between the upper and lower ends and opposing front and back surfaces that extend between the upper and lower ends, the drainage funnel further comprising at least one of a projection defined on the front surface of the body and engageable with a first shoulder provided within the interior of the transom to help secure the drainage funnel within the interior, and lateral arms extending from the opposing side walls and engageable with a second shoulder to help secure the drainage funnel within the interior. In another further embodiment, the body provides opposing front and back surfaces that extend between the upper and lower ends, the drainage funnel further comprising an adhesive provided on the back surface to secure the drainage funnel to the transom within the interior. In another further embodiment, the adhesive is arranged within a recess defined in the back surface. In another further embodiment, the body of the drainage funnel comprises an upper body portion that provides the upper end and defines the upper opening, and a lower body portion slidably matable with the upper body portion and providing the lower end, and wherein a height of the body is adjustable by slidably moving the upper and lower body portions relative to each other. In another further embodiment, the lower body portion defines an inner channel sized to slidably receive a lower end of the upper body portion, the body further comprising one or more mating features provided on one or both of the upper and lower body portions to releasably mate the upper and lower portions and thereby maintain a height adjustment of the body. In another further embodiment, the drainage funnel further comprises an air vent that includes an air column extending vertically upward from the upper end, and an air flow path defined within the body and extending from a top of the air column to the lower end, wherein the air flow path allows air to flow in either direction between the interior of the transom and the exterior environment. In another further embodiment, the body of the drainage funnel comprises a main body portion that provides the upper opening, and a top body portion matable with the main body and defining an aperture alignable with the upper opening when the main and top body portions are mated.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following figures are included to illustrate certain aspects of the present disclosure, and should not be viewed as exclusive embodiments. The subject matter disclosed is capable of considerable modifications, alterations, combinations, and equivalents in form and function, without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an example façade assembly that may incorporate the principles of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are cross-sectional side views prior art transom assemblies.

FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional side view of an example transom assembly, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3B is an isometric view of an example of the drainage funnel of FIG. 3A, according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 3C is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the transom assembly of FIG. 3A with the drainage funnel of FIG. 3B installed.

FIG. 3D is a bottom view of a portion of the transom assembly of FIG. 3A with the drainage funnel of FIG. 3B installed, according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 4A is an isometric view of another example of the drainage funnel of FIG. 3B, according to one or more additional embodiments.

FIG. 4B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the transom assembly of FIG. 3A with the drainage funnel of FIG. 4A installed.

FIG. 5A is an isometric view of another example of the drainage funnel of FIG. 3B, according to one or more additional embodiments.

FIG. 5B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the transom assembly of FIG. 3A with the drainage funnel of FIG. 5A installed.

FIG. 5C is an isometric view of another example of the drainage funnel of FIG. 3B, according to one or more additional embodiments.

FIG. 5D is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the transom assembly of FIG. 3A with the drainage funnel of FIG. 5C installed.

FIGS. 6A-6C are isometric views of another example of the drainage funnel, according to one or more additional embodiments.

FIG. 7A is an isometric view of another example drainage funnel, according to one or more additional embodiments.

FIG. 7B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the transom assembly of FIG. 3A with the drainage funnel of FIG. 7A installed.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are isometric assembled and exploded views, respectively, of another example drainage funnel, according to one or more additional embodiments.

FIG. 8C is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the transom assembly of FIG. 3A with the drainage funnel of FIGS. 8A-8B installed.

FIGS. 9A and 9B are isometric assembled and exploded views, respectively, of an example air funnel that may be used in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9C is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the transom assembly of FIG. 3A with the air funnel of FIGS. 9A-9B installed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure is related to drainage systems for building façades and, more particularly, to a drainage funnel that is arranged within the interior of a façade assembly to drain water from the interior to an exterior environment.

Embodiments discussed herein describe a transom assembly for a façade assembly of a building, the transom assembly includes a transom that defines an interior including a lower glazing pocket, a lower glazing assembly partially received within the lower glazing pocket, and a drainage funnel arranged within the interior. The drainage funnel includes a body having opposing upper and lower ends, the lower end laterally interposing a bottom of the transom and the lower glazing assembly, an upper opening defined at the upper end, a lower opening defined at the lower end, and an inner flow path extending between the upper and lower openings. Water accumulated within the interior drains from the interior to an exterior environment of the building through the inner flow path.

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an example façade assembly 100 that may incorporate the principles of the present disclosure. The façade assembly 100 may be configured to be secured to a building and thereby form the outside or external face of the building. In the illustrated embodiment, the façade assembly 100 comprises a window system, often referred to as a “curtain wall”. Accordingly, the façade assembly 100 of FIG. 1 will alternately be referred to herein as the “curtain wall 100”.

While the following discussion is related to the curtain wall 100, the principles of the present disclosure are equally applicable to a variety of other types of façade assemblies including, but not limited to, panel façades, a window wall, windows, such as vents (e.g., pivoting windows), sliding windows, and swinging windows, or any combination thereof.

As illustrated, the curtain wall 100 includes a plurality of glazing assemblies 102 that are assembled together to form the curtain wall 100. The glazing assemblies 102 may be sequentially secured to a building structure, such as at one or more beams 104 forming part of the building structure. In some installations, the glazing assemblies 102 may be attached to and effectively “hung” on one or more brackets 106 secured to the beams 104. Moreover, laterally adjacent glazing assemblies 102 may be operatively coupled to each other at a common vertical member 108, and vertically adjacent glazing assemblies 102 may be operatively coupled to each other at a common transom 110, alternately referred to as a “horizontal member” since the transom 110 may extend substantially horizontal.

Each glazing assembly 102 may include one or more glazing panels 112a-112e, alternately referred to as “infills”. Each glazing panel 112a-e may comprise one or more panes of window glass, one or more panes of polycarbonate, or one or more panels of material that are clear, translucent, tinted, or opaque. In modern construction, the glazing panels 112a-e are typically double or triple glazed with air, an inert gas, and/or a plastic film(s) between adjacent panels to control transmission of thermal energy by radiation and convection between the interior of the building and the exterior environment.

In some embodiments, the glazing panels 112a-e may be secured to the corresponding glazing assemblies 102 by way of a silicone adhesive/sealant or structural tape. In other embodiments, however, one or more cover elements may be used to provide an architectural finishing detail between vertically and horizontally adjacent glazing panels 112a-e, and/or provide a mechanism for supporting the glazing panels 112a-e in place on the curtain wall 100, e.g., as a back-up or supplemental support for a glazing assembly 102.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are cross-sectional side views of prior art transom assemblies 202a and 202b, respectively. The transom assemblies 202a,b may be similar in some respects to the transoms 110 of FIG. 1, and may thus be used in conjunction with the façade assembly 100 or any of the façade assemblies mentioned herein. More specifically, the first transom assembly 202a may form part of a curtain wall, and the second transom assembly 202b may form part of a window assembly, such as a vent or the like.

Each transom assembly 202a,b may be configured to help support and/or secure one or more glazing assemblies, shown as an upper glazing assembly 204a and a lower glazing assembly 204b. The glazing assemblies 204a,b may be the same as or similar to the glazing assemblies 102 of FIG. 1. As illustrated, each glazing assembly 204a,b includes a first or “exterior” glass panel 206a and a second or “interior” glass panel 206b with a spacer 208 positioned therebetween. The space between the first and second glass panels 206a,b may be filled with air or an inert gas to help control transmission of thermal energy by radiation and convection between the interior of the building and the exterior environment. Alternatively, one or more plastic films may be positioned within the space to help control transmission of thermal energy. Accordingly, the glazing assemblies 204a,b may each comprise a conventional “double-glazed” window arrangement. It will be appreciated, however, that the principles of the present disclosure may be equally applicable to other glazing assembly designs and configurations, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

As illustrated, the transom assemblies 202a,b may include a transom 210, which may alternately be referred to as a “horizontal member” since it may extend substantially horizontal, but could alternatively extend at an angle offset from horizontal, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In some embodiments, the transom 210 may comprise a composite profile that includes a first or “exterior” portion 212a, a second or “interior” portion 212b, and a thermal break 214 that operatively couples and separates the exterior and interior portions 212a,b. In such embodiments, the exterior portion 212a may be exposed to the exterior environment of the building, and may therefore provide an architectural finishing detail while simultaneously covering a horizontal gap between the upper and lower glazing assemblies 204a, b. In contrast, the interior portion 212b is exposed to the interior of the building. The exterior and interior portions 212a,b may comprise rigid extrusions, such as being made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The thermal break 214 may be made of a thermally non-conductive material, such as a polymer (e.g., polyamide) or an elastomer, and may therefore interrupt thermal transfer between the exterior and interior portions 212a,b.

In the illustrated application, the transom 210 defines an interior 215, which may comprise various chambers, cavities, or pockets defined by various structural features of the transom 210. The transom 210 of FIGS. 2A-2B, for example, includes at least an upper glazing pocket 216a and a lower glazing pocket 216b. The upper and lower glazing assemblies 204a,b may be operatively coupled to the transom 210 by extending partially into the upper and lower glazing pockets 216a,b, respectively. More specifically, the bottom or lower end of the upper glazing assembly 204a may extend into the upper glazing pocket 216a and rest on a setting block 218, alternately referred to as a “panel chair”. The setting block 218 is used to help position and support the upper glazing assembly 204a under the influence of gravity, and may rest atop a portion of the transom 210 and/or the thermal break 214. In contrast, the top or upper end of the lower glazing assembly 204a may extend into the lower glazing pocket 216b.

The transom 210 may further provide or otherwise define one or more horizontal structural members 217 (two shown) that not only enhance the structural rigidity of the transom 210, but also help separate the interior 215 into a plurality of chambers or pockets, including the upper and lower glazing pockets 216a,b. In the illustrated embodiment, the two horizontal structural members 217 help define an intermediate glazing pocket 216c that interposes the upper and lower glazing pockets 216a,b, but also forms part of the interior 215. Accordingly, as used herein, the interior 215 will refer to the combined chambers, cavities, pockets, and areas defined within the transom 210, and including the upper and lower glazing pockets 216a,b and the intermediate glazing pocket 216c.

An upper interior gasket 220a and a lower interior gasket 220b may be positioned to interpose the upper and lower glazing assemblies 204a,b, respectively, and the interior portion 212b of the transom 210. Similarly, an upper exterior gasket 222a and a lower exterior gasket 222b may interpose the upper and lower glazing assemblies 204a,b, respectively, and the exterior portion 212a of the transom 210. The interior gaskets 220a,b may provide a substantially sealed interface between the glazing assemblies 204a,b and the transom 210 on the interior of a building, and the exterior gaskets 222a,b may provide a substantially sealed interface between the glazing assemblies 204a,b and the transom 210 on the exterior of the building. Accordingly, the interior and exterior gaskets 220a,b and 222a,b may operate to help prevent the migration of fluids (e.g., water, air, etc.) into the glazing pockets 216a,b.

While designed to provide a sealed interface between the upper glazing assembly 204a and the exterior portion 212a of the transom 210, water 224 may still migrate past the upper exterior gasket 222a and into the upper glazing pocket 216a. This may occur, for example, as a result of seal breakdown through thermal expansion and contraction, improper workmanship or condensation. When the water 224 enters the upper glazing pocket 216a, it is desirable to prevent the water 224 from migrating through the interior 215 and coming into contact with the lower glazing assembly 204b, which may result in a leak through the lower interior gasket 220b or a failure of the spacer 208 in the lower glazing assembly 204b.

Accordingly, the transom assemblies 202a,b may each be designed to include or provide a drainage system and corresponding path for the water 224 to exit the interior 215 as needed. The first transom assembly 202a of FIG. 2A, for example, includes a visible drainage vent 226 that includes an aperture 228 defined through the exterior portion 212a, and a drain cap 230 secured to the outer (exposed) surface of the exterior portion 212a at the aperture 228. The aperture 228 facilitates fluid communication between the upper glazing pocket 216a and the external environment, and thus allows the water 224 to drain from the interior 215 of the transom 210. The drain cap 230 directs the flow of the water 224 downward as it exits the interior 215.

In contrast, the second transom assembly 202b of FIG. 2B includes a partially hidden drainage vent 232. More specifically, a section 234 of the exterior portion 212a of the transom 210 may be recessed toward the interior of the building, and an aperture 236 may be defined in a ceiling 238 formed (exposed) by the section 234 being recessed inward. The aperture 236 facilitates fluid communication between the upper glazing pocket 216a and the exterior environment, and thus allows the water 224 to drain from the interior 215 of the transom 210. When looking at the second transom assembly 202b from the front, the drainage vent 232 is not readily visible to the human eye, but is instead partially hidden and only perceived when looking from below.

Primarily for aesthetic reasons, completely hidden drainage vents are desired by building owners and occupants. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, transom assemblies may include one or more drainage funnels arranged within the interior of the transom 210 and completely hidden from view. Water 224 that may accumulate within the interior 215 of the transom 210 may be conveyed to the drainage funnels, which may be arranged to discharge the water 224 below the transom 210 on the exterior of the building. This facilitates both the hidden and aesthetic drainage function to be retained with a flush-mounted transom 210, without any additional external shape disrupting the design of the upper and lower glazing assemblies 204a,b.

FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional side view of an example transom assembly 300, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. The transom assembly 300 may be similar in some respects to the transom assemblies 202a,b of FIGS. 2A-2B and therefore may be best understood with reference thereto, where like numerals will correspond to similar components not described again in detail.

The transom assembly 300 may be used in conjunction with the façade assembly 100 of FIG. 1, or any of the façade assemblies mentioned herein. In the illustrated embodiment, the transom assembly 300 corresponds to a curtain wall, but, with a few design changes, could alternately correspond to any of the façade assemblies mentioned herein, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

The transom assembly 300 includes the transom 210, which includes the exterior and interior portions 212a,b operatively coupled to each other with the thermal break 214, as generally described above. In other embodiments, however, the thermal break 214 may be omitted and the transom 210 may instead comprise a monolithic extrusion. As indicated above, the exterior portion 212a is exposed to the exterior environment of the building, and the interior portion 212b is exposed to the interior of the building.

The transom assembly 300 also supports the upper and lower glazing assemblies 204a,b, as generally described above. Moreover, the upper and lower interior gaskets 220a,b are positioned to interpose the upper and lower glazing assemblies 204a,b, respectively, and the interior portion 212b of the transom 210, while the upper and lower exterior gaskets 222a,b (the lower exterior gasket 222b not visible in FIG. 3A) are positioned to interpose the upper and lower glazing assemblies 204a,b, respectively, and the exterior portion 212a of the transom 210. Following installation of the upper and lower glazing assemblies 204a,b, and over time or otherwise in extreme weather conditions, water 224 may be able to migrate past the upper exterior gasket 222a and flow into the interior 215 of the transom 210.

According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the transom assembly 300 may further include one or more drainage funnels 308 (one shown) arranged at least partially within the interior 215 and operable to receive the water 224 accumulating within the interior 215 and vent (flow) the water 224 to the exterior environment. In at least one embodiment, as illustrated, the drainage funnel 308 may be arranged within the lower glazing pocket 216b, but could be arranged in other portions of the interior 215. At least a portion of the drainage funnel 308 (e.g., the lower end) laterally interposes the lower glazing assembly 204b and a lower end of the transom 210. The drainage funnel 308 may be arranged to discharge the water 224 at a point below a bottom 310 of the transom 210 and on the exterior of the building. Moreover, the drainage funnel 308 may be arranged within the interior 215 such that it is hidden from view. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the lower end of the drainage funnel 308 may terminate flush with (or slightly above) the bottom 310 of the transom 210. As will be appreciated, this facilitates both hidden and aesthetic drainage functions with a flush-mounted transom 210, without any additional external shape disrupting the design of the upper and lower glazing assemblies 204a,b.

In the illustrated embodiment, one or more apertures 312 may be defined in the horizontal structural members 217 to allow the water 224 to flow (migrate) through the interior 215 to reach the drainage funnel 308. In at least one embodiment, the drainage funnel 308 may be aligned with one of the apertures 312, which may directly feed the water 224 into the interior of the drainage funnel 308. While only one drainage funnel 308 is visible in FIG. 3A, a plurality of drainage funnels 308 may be included in the transom assembly 300, may be little laterally spaced from each other along the horizontal length of the transom 210.

FIG. 3B is an isometric view of one example of the drainage funnel 308, according to one or more embodiments. As illustrated, the drainage funnel 308 includes a body 314 having opposing first (upper) and second (lower) ends 316a and 316b, and opposing first and second sidewalls 318a and 318b extending between the upper and lower ends 316a,b. The body 314 may also provide opposing front and back surfaces 320a and 320b also extending between the upper and lower ends 316a,b.

The body 314 defines a first or “upper” opening 322a at the upper end 316a and a second or “lower” opening 322b at the lower end 316b, and an inner flow path 324 extends between the upper and lower openings 322a,b thereby allowing fluid flow through the body 314. In some embodiments, as illustrated, the upper opening 322a may be larger than the lower opening 322b. In such embodiments, the inner flow path 324 tapers inward from the upper end 316a toward the lower end 316b. In other embodiments, however, the upper and lower openings 322a,b may be the same size, or the lower opening 322b may alternatively be larger than the upper opening 322a, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

In some embodiments, the drainage funnel 308 may provide a ledge or projection 326 (alternately referred to as a “protrusion”) configured to engage a corresponding portion of the transom 210 (FIG. 3A) to help secure the drainage funnel 308 within the interior 215 (FIG. 3A). In the illustrated embodiment, the projection 326 is provided on the front surface 320a, at or near the upper end 316a, but could alternatively be provided at other locations on the body 314, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The projection 326 may allow the drainage funnel 308 to be “clipped” into place via an interference fit with a corresponding portion of the transom 210, as described in more detail below.

In some embodiments, the drainage funnel 308 may further include or otherwise provide one or more lateral arms 328 (two shown) that extend from one or both of the sidewalls 318a,b. Similar to the projection 326, the lateral arms 328 may be configured to engage corresponding portions of the transom 210 to help secure the drainage funnel 308 within the interior 215. It should be noted that while shown extending from the sidewalls 318a,b, the lateral arms 328 may alternatively extend from other portions of the body 314, such as the back surface 320b, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

The drainage funnel 308 can be made of a variety of rigid or semi-rigid materials including, but not limited to, a metal (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum, copper, etc.), a plastic, a composite material, or any combination thereof. In at least one embodiment, the material for the drainage funnel 308 may comprise a semi-rigid material that allows portions of the drainage funnel 308 to bend or flex as it is installed on and attached to the transom 210.

FIG. 3C is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the transom assembly 300 with the drainage funnel 308 installed. As illustrated, the drainage funnel 308 may be arranged within the interior 215 and, more particularly, within the lower glazing pocket 216b forming part of the interior 215. Moreover, when the drainage funnel 308 is properly arranged within the lower glazing pocket 216b, the upper opening 322a may be arranged to align with the aperture 312 defined in the vertically adjacent horizontal structural member 217. This ensures that the water 224 (FIG. 3A) migrating into the interior 215 is able to drain into the inner flow path 324 of the drainage funnel 308.

In some embodiments, as illustrated, the transom 210 may provide or otherwise define a first shoulder 330 engageable with the projection 326 provided on the drainage funnel 308. The first shoulder 330 may extend laterally into the lower glazing pocket 216b to engage the projection 326 as the drainage funnel 308 is installed in the interior 215. More specifically, the drainage funnel 308 may be installed by advancing the drainage funnel 308 vertically within the lower glazing pocket 216b and until the projection 326 locates and engages the first shoulder 330. Increasing an amount of vertical loading or force on the drainage funnel 308 will correspondingly force the projection 326 against the first shoulder 330, which causes the drainage funnel 308 to flex laterally inward to allow the projection 326 to bypass the first shoulder 330. Once the projection 326 bypasses the first shoulder 330, the drainage funnel 308 flexes back to its natural state and the projection 326 may rest on the top of the first shoulder 330. In some embodiments, the upper end 316a of the drainage funnel 308 may also engage an underside 332 of the vertically adjacent horizontal structural member 217, thereby vertically securing the drainage funnel 308 within the transom 210.

In some embodiments, as illustrated, the transom 210 may further provide or otherwise define one or more second shoulders 334 engageable with the lateral arms 328 (one shown) provided on the drainage funnel 308. In at least one embodiment, the second shoulder 334 may form part of a gasket groove 336 configured to receive and seat the lower exterior gasket 222b. As the drainage funnel 308 is installed the interior 215, the lateral arms 328 may be engageable with the second shoulder 334. More specifically, as the drainage funnel 308 is advanced into the lower glazing pocket 216b, as generally described above, the lateral arms 328 will eventually locate the second shoulder 334 and flex to allow the drainage funnel 308 to continue advancing into the lower glazing pocket 216b. Once bypassing the second shoulder 334, the lateral arms 328 will flex back to their natural state to removably attach to the second shoulder 334. More specifically, in some embodiments, the lateral arms 328 may provide or otherwise define an engagement feature 338, such as a hook or the like, and the engagement feature 338 may be configured to engage the second shoulder 334 and thereby laterally secure the drainage funnel 308 within the transom 210.

FIG. 3D is a bottom view of a portion of the transom assembly 300 with the drainage funnel 308 installed, according to one or more embodiments. In some embodiments, as briefly mentioned above, the lower end 316b of the drainage funnel 308 may terminate flush with the bottom 310 of the transom 210. In other embodiments, however, the lower end 316b may terminate offset from the bottom 310 of the transom 210, and otherwise within a portion of the interior 215 of the transom 210, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

Moreover, as illustrated, in some embodiments, the lower end 316b of the drainage funnel 308 may penetrate a portion of the lower exterior gasket 222b. More specifically, a length or section of the lower exterior gasket 222b may be cut or otherwise removed to provide or define a gap 340 sized to accommodate the width of the lower end 316b. Furthermore, in at least one embodiment, a portion or section 342 of the bottom 310 of the transom 210 may be cut or otherwise milled out to also accommodate the width of the lower end 316b. In such embodiments, the gap 340 and the section 342 may exhibit the same length dimensions to fully accommodate the width of the lower end 316b of the drainage funnel 308.

FIG. 4A is an isometric view of another example of the drainage funnel 308, according to one or more additional embodiments. In the illustrated embodiment, the drainage funnel 308 may include or otherwise define one or more lateral tabs 402 that extend laterally outward from the body 314 at or near the upper end 316a of the body 314. In some embodiments, as illustrated, the lateral tabs 402 extend from the sidewalls 318a,b, but could alternatively extend from other portions of the body 314, such as the front or back surfaces 320a,b, or any combination of portions of the body 314. In some embodiments, as illustrated, the lateral tabs 402 may extend flush (parallel) with the upper opening 322a at the upper end 316a. Moreover, the lateral tabs 402 may be symmetrical on each side of the body 314, but could alternatively be asymmetrical, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

The lateral tabs 402 may be configured to receive and otherwise accommodate corresponding mechanical fasteners 404 configured to secure the drainage funnel 308 to the transom 210 (see FIG. 4B). In some embodiments, the mechanical fasteners 404 may comprise self-tapping screws capable of penetrating the material of the transom 210, but could alternatively comprise other types of fasteners, such as a nut and bolt assembly, rivets, or the like, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

In some embodiments, a seal 406 may be included with each mechanical fastener 404. The seal 406 may comprise an annular structure that surrounds the shaft of the mechanical fastener 404, and may facilitate a sealed interface between the underside 332 (FIG. 4B) of the transom 210 (FIG. 4B) and the lateral tabs 402, thereby eliminating a leak path at the location of the mechanical fasteners 404. The seals 406 may be made of a variety of pliable materials such as an elastomer (e.g., rubber) or foam. In at least one embodiment, the seals 406 may be arranged within corresponding recesses 408 defined in the lateral tabs 402. In other embodiments, however, the seals 406 may be arranged on the top surface of the corresponding lateral tab 402, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

FIG. 4B is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of a portion of the transom assembly 300 with the drainage funnel 308 of FIG. 4A installed. As illustrated, the drainage funnel 308 may be arranged within the interior 215 and, more particularly, within the lower glazing pocket 216b. The drainage funnel 308 may be installed by advancing the drainage funnel 308 vertically within the lower glazing pocket 216b and until the upper end 316a engages the underside 332 of the vertically adjacent horizontal structural member 217. Once the drainage funnel 308 is in contact with the underside 332 of the horizontal structural member 217, the mechanical fasteners 404 may be advanced through the corresponding lateral tabs 402 and further through the material of the horizontal structural member 217, thereby securing the drainage funnel 308 both vertically and laterally within the lower glazing pocket 216b.

FIG. 5A is an isometric view of another example of the drainage funnel 308, according to one or more additional embodiments. In the illustrated embodiment, the drainage funnel 308 may include an adhesive 502 configured to secure the drainage funnel 308 to the transom 210 (see FIG. 5B). The adhesive 502 may comprise any type of adhesive sufficient to immovably secure the drainage funnel 308 to and within the transom 210.

In some embodiments, as illustrated, the adhesive 502 may be secured to and otherwise form part of the drainage funnel 308. For example, the adhesive 502 may be applied to the back surface 320b of the drainage funnel 308. In such embodiments, the adhesive 502 may comprise a spray adhesive, a thin layer of an adhesive, or a double-sided tape applied to the back surface 320b. Alternatively, the adhesive 502 may comprise an adhesive pad or adhesive tape that exhibits a thickness T (see FIG. 5B). In such embodiments, the drainage funnel 308 may define a recess 504 sized (i.e., exhibits a sufficient depth) to receive the adhesive 502. Moreover, in such embodiments, the adhesive 502 and the corresponding recess 504 may exhibit a polygonal shape, such as square or rectangular, but could alternatively exhibit other shapes, such as round, oval, or ovoid, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

While the adhesive 502 is shown on the back surface 320b of the drainage funnel 308, it is contemplated herein to place the adhesive 502 on other portions of the drainage funnel 308, such as the front surface 320a. Moreover, while the adhesive 502 is shown attached to the drainage funnel 308, it is contemplated herein that the adhesive 502 may alternatively be applied to an inner surface of the transom 210 (FIG. 5B) and the drainage funnel 308 subsequently attached thereto during installation, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

FIG. 5B is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of a portion of the transom assembly 300 with the drainage funnel 308 of FIG. 5A installed. As illustrated, the drainage funnel 308 may be arranged within the interior 215 of the transom 210 and, more particularly, within the lower glazing pocket 216b. The drainage funnel 308 may be installed by advancing the drainage funnel 308 vertically within the lower glazing pocket 216b and until the upper end 316a engages the underside 332 of the vertically adjacent horizontal structural member 217. Moreover, when the drainage funnel 308 is properly arranged within the lower glazing pocket 216b, the upper opening 322a may be aligned with the aperture 312 defined in the vertically adjacent horizontal structural member 217. The drainage funnel 308 may then be forced laterally against an inner surface 508 of the transom 210, thereby allowing the adhesive 502 to adhere to the inner surface 508 and interconnect the drainage funnel 308 to the transom 210. This secures the drainage funnel 308 both vertically and laterally within the lower glazing pocket 216b.

In other embodiments, it is contemplated herein to have the adhesive 502 arranged on the inner surface 508 of the transom 210, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In such embodiments, the drainage funnel 308 may be properly placed within the lower glazing pocket 216b and then forced laterally against the adhesive 502 provided on the transom 210, which secures the drainage funnel 308 to the adhesive 502 within the lower glazing pocket 216b.

FIG. 5C is an isometric view of another example of the drainage funnel 308, according to one or more additional embodiments. In the illustrated embodiment, the drainage funnel 308 may include a sealing member 510 configured to facilitate a sealed interface between the drainage funnel 308 and the lower glazing assembly 204b (see FIG. 5D). The sealing member 510 may be made of any material capable of forming the sealed interface between the drainage funnel 308 and the lower glazing assembly 204b. For example, the sealing member 510 may be made of an elastomer or a foam.

In some embodiments, as illustrated, the sealing member 510 may be secured to and otherwise form part of the drainage funnel 308. For example, the sealing member 510 may be applied to the front surface 320a of the drainage funnel 308, and may be arranged at or near the lower end 316b of the drainage funnel 308, but could alternatively be arranged at other locations on the front surface 320a, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

FIG. 5D is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of a portion of the transom assembly 300 with the drainage funnel 308 of FIG. 5C installed. As illustrated, the drainage funnel 308 may be arranged within the interior 215 of the transom 210 and, more particularly, within the lower glazing pocket 216b. When the drainage funnel 308 is properly arranged within the lower glazing pocket 216b, the sealing member 510 may form a sealed interface between the drainage funnel 308 and the lower glazing assembly 204b, and more particularly, against the exterior glass panel 206a of the lower glazing assembly 204b. In operation, the sealing member 510 may improve the sealing function between the drainage funnel 308 and the lower glazing assembly 204b.

FIGS. 6A-6C are isometric views of another example drainage funnel 602, according to one or more additional embodiments. The drainage funnel 602 may be similar in some respects to the drainage funnel 308 described herein. Similar to the drainage funnel 308, for example, the drainage funnel 602 may be used in conjunction with the transom assembly 300 (FIGS. 3A, 3C, 3D), and could replace the drainage funnel 308.

As illustrated, the drainage funnel 602 includes a two-piece body 604 comprising a first or “upper” body portion 606a and a second or “lower” body portion 606b slidably matable with the upper body portion 606a. The upper body portion 606a provides an upper end 608a of the drainage funnel 602, and the lower body portion 606b provides a lower end 608b of the drainage funnel 602. Moreover, the upper body portion 606a defines a first or “upper” opening 610a at the upper end 608a, and the lower body portion 606b defines a second or “lower” opening 610b (FIGS. 6B-6C) at the lower end 608b. Depending on the relative position of the upper and lower body portions 606a,b, the lower opening 610b may be defined by a combination of the upper and lower body portions 606a,b (see FIG. 6B), or by the lower body portion 606b alone (see FIG. 6C). An inner flow path 612 extends between the first and second openings 610a,b and facilitates fluid flow through the body 604.

In some embodiments, as illustrated, the upper opening 610a may be larger than the lower opening 610b. In such embodiments, the inner flow path 612 tapers inward from the upper end 608a toward the lower end 608b. In other embodiments, however, the upper and lower openings 610a,b may be the same size, or the lower opening 610b may alternatively be larger than the upper opening 610a, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

The lower body portion 606b may provide or otherwise define an inner channel 614 sized to slidably receive a lower end 616 (FIGS. 6B-6C) of the upper body portion 606a. Alternatively, the upper body portion 606a may provide the inner channel 614, and an upper end of the lower body portion 606b may be sized to be received within the inner channel 614. Receiving the lower end 616 of the upper body portion 606a in the inner channel 614 provides the body 604 with the ability to adjust its vertical height. More specifically, the body 604 is shown in FIG. 6B exhibiting a first height with the upper body portion 606a fully received within the inner channel 614 such that the lower end 616 of the upper body portion 606a terminates at or near the lower end 608b of the body 604. In contrast, as shown in FIG. 6C, the body 604 is shown exhibiting a second height greater (larger) than the first height. More specifically, in FIG. 6C, the upper body portion 606a is only partially received within the inner channel 614 such that the lower end 616 of the upper body portion 606a terminates at a location vertically offset from (above) the lower end 608b of the body 604.

Referring specifically to FIGS. 6B and 6C, in some embodiments, the drainage funnel 602 may include one or more mating features that help facilitate and maintain height adjustment of the body 604. More specifically, the upper body portion 606a may define one or more lateral protrusions 618 (one shown), and the lower body portion 606b may define one or more grooves, shown as a first or “upper” groove 620a and a second or “lower” groove 620b, and each groove 620a,b may be sized to receive the one or more lateral protrusions 618. When the lateral protrusion 618 locates and is received within one of the grooves 620a,b, the upper body portion 608a may be temporarily secured to the lower body portion 608b at a specific and predetermined height. In particular, the grooves 620a,b may be defined at predetermined and known locations on the lower body portion 606b, thereby allowing the height of the body 604 to be adjusted to known heights when the lateral protrusion 618 is received at any of the grooves 620a,b.

In FIG. 6B, for example, the lateral protrusion 618 is received within the lower groove 620b, thereby resulting in the body 604 exhibiting the first height, as mentioned above. In FIG. 6C, however, the upper body portion 606a is adjusted relative to the lower body portion 606b (or vice versa) such that the lateral protrusion 618 is received within the upper groove 620a, thereby resulting in the body 604 exhibiting the second height, which is greater (larger) than the first height. As will be appreciated, at least one advantage to this embodiment is that the height (vertical length) of the drainage funnel 602 can be manipulated so that it is able to be accommodated within various transom sizes, as in a one-size-fits-all application.

While only one lateral projection 618 and two grooves 620a,b are shown in FIGS. 6B-6C, it is contemplated herein to have more than one lateral projection 618 and more or less than two grooves 620a,b, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Moreover, while the lateral projection 618 is depicted as being provided on an outer surface of the upper body portion 606a and the grooves 620a,b are depicted as being provided on an inner surface of the lower body portion 606b, the lateral projection 618 may alternatively be provided on the inner surface of the lower body portion 606b and the grooves 620a,b may alternatively be provided on the outer surface of the upper body portion 606a, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

Lastly, similar to the drainage funnel 308 described above, the drainage funnel 602 can be made of any of the rigid or semi-rigid materials mentioned herein. Moreover, similar to the embodiments of the drainage funnel 308, the drainage funnel 602 may include the projection 326 and the lateral arms 328 (FIG. 6A), as generally described above. Alternatively, however, or in addition thereto, the drainage funnel 602 may incorporate one or more of the mechanical fasteners 404 (FIGS. 4A-4B), the adhesive 502 (FIGS. 5A-5B), and the sealing member 510 (FIGS. 5C-5D).

FIG. 7A is an isometric view of another example drainage funnel 702, according to one or more additional embodiments. The drainage funnel 702 may be similar in some respects to the drainage funnel 308, and thus may be used in conjunction with the transom assembly 300 (FIGS. 3A, 3C, 3D). Similar to the drainage funnel 308, the drainage funnel 702 can be made of any of the rigid or semi-rigid materials mentioned herein.

As illustrated, the drainage funnel 702 includes a body 704 having opposing first (upper) and second (lower) ends 706a and 706b and opposing first and second sidewalls 708a and 708b extending between the upper and lower ends 706a,b. The body 704 may also provide opposing front and back surfaces 710a and 710b (back surface is not visible in FIG. 7A) also extending between the upper and lower ends 706a,b. The body 704 defines a first or “upper” opening 712a at the upper end 706a and a second or “lower” opening 712b (not fully visible) at the lower end 706b. An inner flow path 714 extends between the first and second openings 712a,b thereby allowing fluid (water) flow through the body 704.

In the illustrated embodiment, the drainage funnel 702 may include or otherwise define one or more lateral tabs 716 that extend laterally from the body 704 at or near the upper end 706a of the body 704. In some embodiments, as illustrated, the lateral tabs 716 may extend flush with the upper opening 712a at the upper end 706a. The lateral tabs 716 may be configured to receive and otherwise accommodate corresponding mechanical fasteners 404 configured to secure the drainage funnel 702 to the transom 210 (see FIG. 7B). In some embodiments, the seal 406 may be included with each mechanical fastener 404, as generally described above, and may facilitate a sealed interface between the underside 332 (FIG. 7B) of the transom 210 and the lateral tabs 716, thereby eliminating a leak path at the location of the mechanical fasteners 404. In at least one embodiment, the seals 406 may be arranged within corresponding recesses 718 defined in the lateral tabs 716. In other embodiments, however, the seals 406 may be arranged on the top surface of the corresponding lateral tab 716, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

The inner flow path 714 is configured to receive water 224 at the upper opening 712a and discharge the water 224 from the drainage funnel 702 at the lower opening 712b. In addition to the inner flow path 714 designed to drain the water 224, the drainage funnel 702 may further include one or more air vents 720 (two shown) operable to ensure proper air pressure equalization within the interior 215 (FIG. 7B) of the transom 210 (FIG. 7B). Facilitating air pressure equalization may prove advantageous in helping to properly drain (evacuate) the water 224 from the interior 215.

As illustrated, each air vent 720 includes an orifice 722 defined in the body 704 and in fluid communication with an air column 724 that extends vertically upward from the upper end 706a. In some embodiments, the orifice 722 may be defined in the front surface 710a of the body 704, but could alternatively be defined in other surfaces of the body 704, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. An air flow path 726 is defined within the body 704 and extends between the top of the air column 724 to the lower end 706b of the body 704, thereby allowing air 728 to flow in either direction along the air flow path 726, including communication with the exterior environment at the lower end 706b. The air flow path 726 also fluidly communicates with the orifice 722, thereby providing multiple points of fluid communication within the interior 215 (FIG. 7B). The inner flow path 714 and the air flow path 726 are isolated and entirely separate, thereby allowing the drainage funnel 702 to allow fluid communication of both water 224 and air 728 between the interior 215 and the exterior environment.

FIG. 7B is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of a portion of the transom assembly 300 with the drainage funnel 702 of FIG. 7A installed. As illustrated, the drainage funnel 702 may be arranged within the interior 215 of the transom 210 and, more particularly, within the lower glazing pocket 216b. The drainage funnel 702 may be installed by advancing the drainage funnel 702 vertically within (into) the lower glazing pocket 216b. The transom 210 may define apertures 730 sized to receive corresponding air columns 724 as the drainage funnel 702 is being installed. Once the air columns 724 are aligned with the corresponding apertures 730, the drainage funnel 702 may then be further advanced until the upper end 706a engages the underside 332 of the vertically adjacent horizontal structural member 217. Once the drainage funnel 702 is in contact with the underside 332 of the horizontal structural member 217, the mechanical fasteners 404 may be advanced through the corresponding lateral tabs 716 (FIG. 7A) and through the material of the horizontal structural member 217, thereby securing the drainage funnel 702 both vertically and laterally within the lower glazing pocket 216b.

In example operation of the drainage funnel 702, any water 224 (FIG. 7A) present within the interior 215 of the transom 210 may drain out of the interior 215 via the inner flow path 714 (FIG. 7A) provided within the drainage funnel 702. Air 728 may simultaneously circulate in either direction along the air flow path 726 (FIG. 7A) of the air vents 720, thereby equalizing the pressure within the interior 215 of the transom 210. Moreover, the air 728 is able to circulate within multiple cavities (e.g., the lower glazing pocket 216b) defined in the transom 210 via the cavities 722.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are isometric assembled and exploded views, respectively, of another example drainage funnel 802, according to one or more additional embodiments. The drainage funnel 802 may be similar in some respects to the drainage funnel 308, and thus may be used in conjunction with the transom assembly 300 (FIGS. 3A, 3C, 3D). Moreover, the drainage funnel 802 may be also similar in some respects to the drainage funnel 702 of FIG. 7A, and may thus be best understood with reference thereto where like numerals will represent like components that will not be described again in detail. Similar to the drainage funnels 308, 702, the drainage funnel 802 can be made of any of the rigid or semi-rigid materials mentioned herein.

Referring first to FIG. 8A, as illustrated, the drainage funnel 802 includes a body 804 having opposing first (upper) and second (lower) ends 806a and 806b, and opposing first and second sidewalls 808a and 808b extending between the upper and lower ends 806a,b. The body 804 may also provide opposing front and back surfaces 810a and 810b (back surface is not visible) also extending between the upper and lower ends 806a,b. The body 804 defines a first or “upper” opening 812a at the upper end 806a and a second or “lower” opening 812b (not fully visible) at the lower end 806b. An inner flow path 814 extends between the first and second openings 812a,b thereby allowing fluid flow through the body 804.

The drainage funnel 802 also provides one or more lateral tabs 816 that extend laterally outward from the body 804 at or near the upper end 806a of the body 804. In some embodiments, as illustrated, the lateral tabs 816 may effectively extend laterally outward from the sidewalls 808a,b, but could alternatively extend from other portions of the body 804, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Moreover, in some embodiments, the lateral tabs 816 may extend flush with the upper opening 812a at the upper end 806a. The lateral tabs 816 may be configured to receive and otherwise accommodate corresponding mechanical fasteners 404 configured to secure the drainage funnel 802 to the transom 210 (see FIG. 8C).

The inner flow path 814 is configured to receive water 224 at the upper opening 812a and discharge the water 224 from the drainage funnel 802 at the lower opening 812b. In addition to the inner flow path 814 to drain the water 224, the drainage funnel 802 may further include the air vents 720, as generally described with reference to FIGS. 7A-7B. Each air vent 720 includes the orifice 722 defined in the body 804 and in fluid communication with a corresponding air column 724 extending vertically upward from the upper surface 806a. The air flow path 726 is defined within the body 804 and extends between the top of each air column 724 to the lower end 806b of the body 804, thereby allowing the air 728 to flow in either direction along the air flow path 726, including communication with the exterior environment at the lower end 806b. The air flow path 726 also fluidly communicates with the corresponding orifice 722, thereby providing multiple points of fluid communication within the interior 215 (FIG. 8C). The inner flow path 814 and the air flow path 726 are isolated and entirely separate, thereby allowing the drainage funnel 802 to allow fluid communication of both water 224 and air 728 between the interior 215 and the exterior environment.

Referring now to FIG. 8B, the body 804 may include at least two component parts or pieces, shown as a first or “main body” portion 818a and a second or “top body” portion 818b. The main and top body portions 818a,b may be mated or otherwise secured together to form the body 804. As illustrated, the top body portion 818b defines an aperture 819 alignable with the upper opening 812a when the main and top body portions 818a,b are properly mated, and thereby forming part of the inner flow path 814 (FIG. 8A).

In some embodiments, the main and top body portions 818a,b may each define corresponding matable features 820 that allow the top body portion 818b to be attached to the main body portion 818a. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the matable features 820 comprise a projection 822 provided on a surface of the top body portion 818b and sized to be received within a groove 824 provided on an opposing surface of the main body portion 818a. In at least one embodiment, the projection 822 may be provided on a lower profile 826 extending from the bottom of the top body portion 818b, and the groove 824 may be defined within or near the upper opening 812a. The top body portion 818b may be coupled to the main body portion 818a by advancing the lower profile 826 into the upper opening 812a until the projection 822 locates and is received within the groove 824, thus forming a snap fit engagement.

In other embodiments, the projection 822 may alternatively be provided on the main body portion 818a, and the groove 824 may alternatively be provided on the top body portion 818b. Moreover, it will be appreciated that the matable features 820 may comprise other types of releasable or permanent matable features, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

In some embodiments, as illustrated, each air vent 720 may include a lower profile 828 extending from the bottom of the top body portion 818b. The main body portion 818a may define corresponding profile apertures 830 sized to receive the lower profiles 828 when the top body portion 818b is coupled to the main body portion 818a. More specifically, as the top body portion 818b is advanced toward the main body portion 818a (or vice versa), the lower profiles 828 may align with and be received within corresponding profile apertures 830, thereby properly orienting the top body portion 818b to the main body portion 818a.

Still referring to FIG. 8B, in some embodiments, the drainage funnel 802 may further include a seal 832 operable to facilitate a sealed interface between the underside 332 (FIG. 8B) of the transom 210 and upper end 806a of the body 804, which is provided by the top body portion 818b. To accomplish this, the seal 832 may be arranged and otherwise included on the top body portion 818b. More specifically, the seal 832 may be arranged on a top surface 834 of the top body portion 818b, and the seal 832 may include one or more apertures 836 to accommodate the air columns 724 and the aperture 819 defined in the top body portion 818b. In at least one embodiment, as illustrated, the top surface 834 may define a recess or otherwise be recessed into the material of the top body portion 818b and sized to receive the seal 832.

The seal 832 may be made of any of the materials mentioned herein with respect to the seals 406. In example operation, the seal 832 may operate like a gasket and prevent fluid migration about the outer periphery of the fluid columns 834 and the aperture 819 defined in the top body portion 818b.

FIG. 8C is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of a portion of the transom assembly 300 with the drainage funnel 802 of FIGS. 8A-8B installed. As illustrated, the drainage funnel 802 may be arranged within the interior 215 of the transom 210 and, more particularly, mostly within the lower glazing pocket 216b. The drainage funnel 802 may be installed by advancing the drainage funnel 802 vertically within the lower glazing pocket 216b and aligning the air columns 724 with the corresponding apertures 730 defined within the transom 210. The drainage funnel 802 may be advanced until the upper end 806a engages the underside 332 of the vertically adjacent horizontal structural member 217. Once the drainage funnel 802 is in contact with the underside 332 of the horizontal structural member 217, the mechanical fasteners 404 may be advanced through the corresponding lateral tabs 816 (FIG. 8A) and through the material of the horizontal structural member 217, thereby securing the drainage funnel 802 both vertically and laterally within the lower glazing pocket 216b.

In example operation of the drainage funnel 802, any water 224 (FIG. 8A) present within the interior 215 of the transom 210 may drain out of the interior 215 via the inner flow path 814 (FIG. 8A) provided within the drainage funnel 802. Air 728 may simultaneously circulate in either direction along the air flow path 726 (FIG. 8A) of the air vents 720, thereby equalizing the pressure within the interior 215 of the transom 210. Moreover, the air 728 is able to circulate within multiple cavities (e.g., the lower glazing pocket 216b) defined in the transom 210 via the cavities 722.

FIGS. 9A and 9B are isometric assembled and exploded views, respectively, of an example air funnel 902, that may be used in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. The air funnel 902 may be similar in some respects to the drainage funnels described herein, and may be used in conjunction with the transom assembly 300 (FIGS. 3A, 3C, 3D). In some applications, the air funnel 902 may be combined with one or more of the drainage funnels in the transom assembly 300 a single installation. Similar to the drainage funnels described herein, the air funnel 902 can be made of any of the rigid or semi-rigid materials mentioned herein.

Referring first to FIG. 9A, as illustrated, the air funnel 902 includes a body 904 having opposing first (upper) and second (lower) ends 906a and 906b, and opposing first and second sidewalls 908a and 908b extending between the upper and lower ends 906a,b. The body 904 may also provide opposing front and back surfaces 910a and 910b (back surface 910b is not visible) also extending between the upper and lower ends 906a,b.

The body 904 further provides an air column 912 that extends vertically upward from the upper end 906a and defines a first or “upper” opening 914a. A second or “lower” opening 914b (not fully visible) is defined by the body 904 at the lower end 906b, and an air flow path 916 extends between the first and second openings 914a,b thereby allowing air 728 to flow through the body 904. More specifically, the air flow path 916 facilitates fluid (air) communication in both directions between the interior 215 (FIG. 9C) of the transom 210 (FIG. 9C) and the exterior environment.

The air funnel 902 also provides one or more lateral tabs 918 that extend laterally outward from the body 904 at or near the upper end 906a of the body 904. In some embodiments, as illustrated, the lateral tabs 918 may extend laterally outward from the sidewalls 908a,b, but could alternatively extend from other portions of the body 904, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The lateral tabs 918 may be configured to receive and otherwise accommodate corresponding mechanical fasteners 404 configured to secure the air funnel 902 to the transom 210 (see FIG. 9C).

Referring now to FIG. 9B, the air funnel 902 may further include a seal 918 operable to facilitate a sealed interface between the underside 332 (FIG. 9B) of the transom 210 (FIG. 9B) and the upper end 906a of the body 904. To accomplish this, the seal 918 may be arranged on a top surface 920 of the body 904 at the upper end 906a. As illustrated, the seal 918 may include one or more apertures 922 to accommodate the air column 912 and other features that may be provided on the top surface 920. In at least one embodiment, as illustrated, the top surface 920 may define a recess or otherwise be recessed into the material of the body 904 and sized to receive the seal 918.

The seal 918 may be made of any of the materials mentioned herein with respect to the seals 406. In example operation, the seal 918 may operate like a gasket and prevent fluid migration about the outer periphery of the fluid column 920 and the mechanical fasteners 404.

FIG. 9C is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of a portion of the transom assembly 300 with the air funnel 902 of FIGS. 9A-9B installed. As illustrated, the air funnel 902 may be arranged within the interior 215 of the transom 210 and, more particularly, mostly within the lower glazing pocket 216b. The air funnel 902 may be installed by advancing the air funnel 902 vertically within the lower glazing pocket 216b and aligning the air column 912 with an aperture (not visible) defined within the transom 210 and sized to receive the air column 912. The air funnel 902 may be advanced until the upper end 906a engages the underside 332 of the vertically adjacent horizontal structural member 217. Once the air funnel 902 is in contact with the underside 332 of the horizontal structural member 217, the mechanical fasteners 404 may be advanced through the corresponding lateral tabs 918 and through the material of the horizontal structural member 217, thereby securing the air funnel 902 both vertically and laterally within the lower glazing pocket 216b. In example operation of the air funnel 902, air 728 is able to circulate in either direction along the air flow path 916 (FIG. 9A), thereby equalizing the pressure within the interior 215 of the transom 210.

Therefore, the disclosed systems and methods are well adapted to attain the ends and advantages mentioned as well as those that are inherent therein. The particular embodiments disclosed above are illustrative only, as the teachings of the present disclosure may be modified and practiced in different but equivalent manners apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein. Furthermore, no limitations are intended to the details of construction or design herein shown, other than as described in the claims below. It is therefore evident that the particular illustrative embodiments disclosed above may be altered, combined, or modified and all such variations are considered within the scope of the present disclosure. The systems and methods illustratively disclosed herein may suitably be practiced in the absence of any element that is not specifically disclosed herein and/or any optional element disclosed herein. While compositions and methods are described in terms of “comprising,” “containing,” or “including” various components or steps, the compositions and methods can also “consist essentially of” or “consist of” the various components and steps. All numbers and ranges disclosed above may vary by some amount. Whenever a numerical range with a lower limit and an upper limit is disclosed, any number and any included range falling within the range is specifically disclosed. In particular, every range of values (of the form, “from about a to about b,” or, equivalently, “from approximately a to b,” or, equivalently, “from approximately a-b”) disclosed herein is to be understood to set forth every number and range encompassed within the broader range of values. Also, the terms in the claims have their plain, ordinary meaning unless otherwise explicitly and clearly defined by the patentee. Moreover, the indefinite articles “a” or “an,” as used in the claims, are defined herein to mean one or more than one of the elements that it introduces. If there is any conflict in the usages of a word or term in this specification and one or more patent or other documents that may be incorporated herein by reference, the definitions that are consistent with this specification should be adopted.

As used herein, the phrase “at least one of” preceding a series of items, with the terms “and” or “or” to separate any of the items, modifies the list as a whole, rather than each member of the list (i.e., each item). The phrase “at least one of” allows a meaning that includes at least one of any one of the items, and/or at least one of any combination of the items, and/or at least one of each of the items. By way of example, the phrases “at least one of A, B, and C” or “at least one of A, B, or C” each refer to only A, only B, or only C; any combination of A, B, and C; and/or at least one of each of A, B, and C.

Although various example embodiments have been disclosed, one of ordinary skill in this art would recognize that certain modifications would come within the scope of this disclosure. For that reason, the following claims should be studied to determine the scope and content of this disclosure.