Operable glass block window

DETAILED DESCRIPTION The present invention is directed to an operable glass block window comprising a window frame sized for insertion into an opening in a structure.
A window sash is provided which carries a plurality of glass blocks.
Hinges connect the sash to the frame to allow the sash to move relative to the frame.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the sash is capable of moving relative to the frame so as to form an angle of at least ninety degrees therebetween.
The operable glass block window of the present invention provides the advantages of traditional, fixed, glass block windows.
That is, the glass block window of the present invention provides protection against vandalism as well as break-ins.
The glass block-window of the present invention provides excellent protection against hurricanes and other gale force winds.
Glass block windows constructed according to the teachings of the present invention are also energy efficient and reduce the transmission of noise from the outside to the interior of the building.
Because the glass block windows of the present invention are capable of being opened, they provide the required fire exits and, thus, their use is not prohibited by fire codes.
Because the glass block window can be fully opened to a position where the window sash forms an angle of ninety degrees with the window frame, maximum ventilation is achieved.
Additionally, the ability to open the window to such a degree allows easy access to the outside of the window from the inside of the room for convenient and safe cleaning.
Those, and other advantages and benefits of the present invention, will become apparent from the Description of a Preferred Embodiment hereinbelow.