Panel system for windows
BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION 
     This invention relates to a panel system, and in particular to a panel system for windows. 
     There are a large number of devices currently available for covering the interior of windows, including venetian blinds, shades, drapes, curtains and shutters. While such devices perform their intended purpose, there is always room for variation, i.e. for different types of window coverings. 
     The object of the present invention is to provide a simple, decorative panel system for use on windows which has a relatively high degree of versatility. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     Accordingly, the present invention relates to a panel system for windows comprising a pair of track means for mounting on a window frame in parallel relationship to each other; longitudinally and transversely extending slot means in opposing, parallel surfaces of said track means; and a plurality of discrete panel means for slidable mounting in said slot means, whereby each of said panel means can be independently moved lonqitudinally and transversely with respect to said track means to block selected portions of the window opening. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     The invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate a preferred embodiment of the invention, and wherein: 
     FIG. 1 is an exploded, perspective view of a window and panel system in accordance with the present invention; 
     FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one bottom corner of a frame used in system of FIG. 1; and 
     FIG. 3, which appears on the first sheet of drawings with FIG. 1, is a perspective view from above and one end of a panel used in the system of FIG. 1. 
    
    
     With reference to FIG. 1, the panel system of the present invention is intended for use with a window generally indicated at 1 of the type including a rectangular frame 2 and a pane of glass 3. Of course, the panel system can be used in an internal window well, the frame of which is defined by drywall or the like. The system can also be used with multi-pane windows. 
     The panel system includes a frame generally indicated at 5 for mounting on or in the window frame 2, and a plurality of discrete panels generally indicated at 6. The frame 5 is defined by a top wall 8, a bottom wall 9, end walls 10, and vertical partitions 12. The top and bottom walls 8 and 9 are defined by straight, planar boards. Referring to FIG. 2, the inner surface 14 of each end wall 10 defines a track for receiving panels 6. The track is defined by a plurality of square recesses 15 extending the entire length of the inner surface 14 of each end wall 10. The recesses 15 alternate with projections 17. A plurality of spaced apart, horizontal recesses 18 are provided in the inner surface 14 of each end wall 10. As described hereinafter in greater detail, the top edges 20 of the projections 17 bordering the recesses 18 define stops. Similar recesses 15 and 18, and projections 17 are provided in both sides of each of the partitions 12. 
     As best shown in FIG. 3, each panel 6 is defined by a rectangular frame 22 holding a central panel or plate 23. Recessed knobs 24 are provided in the front surface of each end of the frame 22 facilitating movement of the panel 6 in the frame 5. A pair of spaced apart pins 26 extend outwardly from each end of the frame 22. The pins 26 are spaced apart by the same distance as the longitudinal centre lines of adjacent horizontal recesses 18 in the end walls 10 and in the partitions 12. 
     It will be readily apparent that four panels 6 are mounted between each end wall 10 and each adjacent partition 12. The panels 6 can be aligned horizontally so that only one quarter of the opening between adjacent partitions 12 or between adjacent end walls and partitions is blocked. Alternatively, the individual panels 6 can be moved transversely in the slots 18, and then longitudinally to block one-half, three quarters or the full opening between adjacent end walls and partitions. In the rest position, the pins 26 normally rest on the stops defined by the edges 20 of the projections 17 bordering the recesses 18, or in recesses 15, in which case the panels 6 are aligned vertically and supported by the bottom wall 9. 
     It will be appreciated that the plates 23 defining the centres of the panels 6 can be semi-transparent or opaque. The panels can be colored or carry a variety of designs. The panels can be formed of wood, plastic, glass or fabric, and can be louvered or solid. Obviously, the top and bottom walls of the frame 5 can define tracks, with the partitions 12 extending horizontally, i.e. the frame openings can be elongated in the horizontal sense for horizontal panel movement.