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Porthole windows are an integral part of ship designs and serve a very distinct and unique purpose. Form plays a key role in the functionality of porthole windows as they are designed specifically to accommodate the unique nature of a seafaring vessel. Porthole windows, when open, serve to provide a bit of fresh air and light to the otherwise damp and dark below-deck quarters of the ship. In addition, porthole windows also offer a view to the outside and even though they are small, they still offer a sizeable amount of light and sufficient air to pass through. When closed shut, porthole windows keep a tight barrier from water entering the ship and the various storms that can surface at sea. A porthole window is similar stylistically to any other type of window, consisting of a glass pane framed by metal or steel. One aspect that makes them unique compared to regular windows is that they are always circular in shape rather than rectangular or square. Many porthole windows come equipped with an additional apparatus called a “storm cover” in order to serve as protection from the drastic weather at sea. The cover does more than just protect the crew from a storm, it also blocks out outside light so that crewmembers can sleep and rest comfortably during the day. On navy ships, the storm cover also provides protection against hostile attacks from enemy ships. The best demonstration of the porthole window’s fitting design is in the simplicity of its structure and the fact that its form helps maintain the strength of the hull and provide protection against the waves. Porthole windows are not just used in seafaring vessels, they can be found on spaceships as well. They are also a key component when developing a tropical home decor. But on the spacecraft, the window must employ a material that can withstand drastic weather changes. the International Space Station employs quartz glass as it is durable and will not crack. In submarines, the porthole windows are made of acrylic plastic instead of glass because acrylic does not distort the view when you look outside the window. Porthole windows serve a wide array of functions and are an integral part of any moving vessel. Regardless of being at sea or in space, porthole windows serve a specific function and maintain the pressure in the vessel as well as protect the crew from enemy attacks. They may not seem like much of a design innovation but it is exactly because of the simplicity of their design that they are so functional and successful at keeping everyone on board safe and out of harm’s way. Whether made from glass or plastic, the important factor is that they are durable enough to withstand extremes both in terms of weather or counter attacks. It’s amazing that there is so much interesting information surrounding something that seems so basic and simple. Porthole windows provide a porthole into the symbiotic nature of form and functionality and the genius that resides within some of the world’s simplest designs, proving that elaborate and ornate is not always better. Porthole windows can provide valuable inspiration for designers and engineers as its simplicity is both basic and incredibly well thought out.
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porthole windows, tropical home decor, home decor, portholes, nautical gifts,
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