Glazing comprising a first and a second glazing element with a

Abstract

A glazing (21, 51) is described comprising first and second slot-section glazing elements (22, 24, 52, 54) arranged to define a cavity in which an internal glazing element (26, 56) is located. An end of a first flange (24a, 54a) of the first slot-section glazing element (22, 52) is spaced apart from a web (24c, 54c) of the second slot-section glazing element (24, 54) by a first space. The inner glazing element (26, 56) includes a central portion (26a, 56a), a first edge portion (26b, 56b) extending along a first side of the central portion (26a, 56a), and a second edge portion (26c, 56c) extending along a second opposite side of the central portion (26a, 56a). A first portion of the first edge portion (26b, 56b) is positioned in the first space and compressed by an end of the first flange (24a, 52b) of the first flute-section glazing element (22, 52) being positioned relative to the web (24c, 54c) of the second flute-section glazing element (24, 54) to form the first space.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a glazing having a first groove-section glazing element and a second groove-section glazing element with an inner glazing element between the first groove-section glazing element and the second groove-section glazing element. Background Art

[0002] Glazing units comprising three spaced apart panes of glazing material are known in the art, such glazing units are often referred to as triple glazings. In such triple glazings, each of the glazing elements or panes is typically a flat sheet of glass.

[0003] It is known that glazing elements have a profiled or grooved section configuration. Profiled or grooved section glazing elements are made from a sheet or ribbon of glass and have at least one lateral edge that is bent upwards during manufacture. Typically both lateral edges are bent upwards during manufacture. An example of making a grooved section glazing element is described in DE1496047A1. In the art, the upward facing portion of the grooved section glazing element is known as a "flange", and the lower portion connected to the flange or each flange is known as a "web". Since the grooved section glazing element is made from a continuous sheet or ribbon of glass and is cut to the desired length, the flange is a continuation of the web and is at an angle to it. Typically the flange is at an angle of substantially 90° to the web. Grooved section glazing elements having two lateral flanges are often referred to as U-shaped glazing elements because the grooved section glazing element has a U-shaped cross-section.

[0004] EP 0742324 A1 describes a facade consisting of two rows of U-shaped glass sections, one row forming an inner surface layer with its base and the other row similarly forming an outer surface layer, so that the legs of the U fit one inside the other. The cavity is filled with thermal insulation, and a heat reflecting layer is provided on one of the outer-facing surfaces of the surface layer and / or the thermal insulation. The U-shaped sections can be positioned so that they abut against each other and the legs of the U-shaped sections are connected with PVC sealing strips and / or silicone sealing members. Due to the properties of the thermal insulation, such a glazing unit has limited visible transparency. In addition, the facade with three U-shaped sections described in EP 0742324 A1 is relatively thick (the thickness of such a facade is the distance between the surface facing the exterior of the building to which the facade is installed and the surface facing the interior of the building to which the facade is installed).

[0005] WO2005 / 033432A1 describes a translucent glazing panel comprising: (a) a thermoplastic panel comprising (i) an outer wall having an inner surface defining an inner groove, the inner groove having an inner volume, and (ii) at least one inner wall protruding from the inner surface into the inner groove; and (b) hydrophobic aerogel particles disposed in the groove. Such a glazing panel is translucent and cannot be used in applications requiring low haze.

[0006] WO 2015 / 007899 A2 describes a glazing comprising a sheet of glass between channel-section glazing elements. A clip is used to hold the sheet of glass in place.

[0007] EP 3 260 621 B1 describes a glazing comprising at least one row of shaped glass sheets arranged next to each other and at least one multiple web plate made of plastic, each shaped glass sheet having at least one web and at least one flange. The multiple web plate made of plastic is attached to a separate retaining device rather than to the shaped glass sheets.

[0008] There is a need for an improved glazing unit that can be used in glazing applications requiring improved energy performance. It would be desirable to be able to retrofit such a glazing unit into existing glazing systems. It would also be desirable to be able to simplify the production and installation capabilities of such a glazing unit. Summary of the invention

[0009] Therefore, the present invention provides a window glass comprising a first groove-section window glass element and a second groove-section window glass element, wherein the first groove-section window glass element and the second groove-section window glass element each comprise a web and a first flange, the first flange extending along a first lateral edge of the corresponding web, the first groove-section window glass element and the second groove-section window glass element being arranged so that the first flange of the first groove-section window glass element faces the web of the second groove-section window glass element, the end of the first flange of the first groove-section window glass element being positioned at a distance relative to the web of the second groove-section window glass element, so that the end of the first flange of the first groove-section window glass element is separated from the web of the second groove-section window glass element by a first space, wherein the inner portion of the window glass element is A small portion is located between the web of the first groove section window glass element and the web of the second groove section window glass element, the internal window glass element includes a central portion, a first edge portion extending along a first side of the central portion, and a second edge portion extending along a second side of the central portion, the first side of the central portion is opposite to the second side of the central portion, wherein the first portion of the first edge portion of the internal window glass element is positioned in a first space between the end of the first flange of the first groove section window glass element and the web of the second groove section window glass element; wherein the first portion of the first edge portion of the internal window glass element is compressed by positioning the end of the first flange of the first groove section window glass element relative to the web of the second groove section window glass element to form a first space.

[0010] The glazing according to the invention has improved energy performance when compared to the same glazing without the inner glazing element.The inner glazing element contributes to improving the thermal insulating properties of the glazing.

[0011] When the first space is formed by positioning the end of the first flange of the first groove-section glazing element relative to the web of the second groove-section glazing element, a first portion of the first edge portion of the inner glazing element is compressed. This positioning occurs when the glazing is constructed. By having an inner glazing element with a compressible first edge portion, an edge portion is provided that can be used to form a seal between the end of the first flange of the first groove-section glazing element and the web of the second groove-section glazing element.

[0012] Preferably, the first portion of the edge portion of the interior window glass element is reversibly compressed, more preferably, the first portion of the first edge portion of the interior window glass element is reversibly compressed so that when the distance of the first flange of the first groove-section window glass element relative to the web of the second groove-section window glass element is increased so that the end of the first flange of the first groove-section window glass element is separated from the web of the second groove-section window glass element by a second space, the first portion of the first edge portion of the interior window glass element expands to fill the second space.

[0013] Preferably, the first portion of the edge portion of the interior window glass element is irreversibly compressed, more preferably the first portion of the edge portion of the interior window glass element is irreversibly compressed so that when the distance of the first flange of the first groove-section window glass element relative to the web of the second groove-section window glass element is increased so that the end of the first flange of the first groove-section window glass element is separated from the web of the second groove-section window glass element by a second space, the first portion of the first edge portion of the interior window glass element changes shape but does not expand to fill the second space, or the first portion of the first edge portion of the interior window glass element does not change shape.

[0014] Preferably, the first edge portion and / or the second edge portion of the inner glazing element is made of a resilient material.

[0015] Preferably, the central portion of the inner glazing element is made of a first material having a first chemical composition and the first edge portion is made of a second material having a second chemical composition, wherein the first chemical composition is the same as or different from the second chemical composition.

[0016] Preferably, the first edge portion of the interior glazing comprises at least a first cavity, and wherein the shape of the first cavity changes when a first portion of the first edge portion is compressed.

[0017] Preferably, the first edge portion of the inner glazing element comprises a plastics material. Suitable plastics materials include at least one of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene polycarbonate and acrylic.

[0018] Preferably, the first edge portion of the inner glazing element comprises an elastomer. Suitable elastomeric materials include at least one of silicone rubber, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) or neoprene.

[0019] Preferably, the first portion of the first edge portion of the inner glazing element comprises a resilient portion.

[0020] Preferably, the first edge portion of the inner glazing element comprises a resilient portion.

[0021] Preferably, the first edge portion of the inner glazing element comprises fibrous insulation material. Suitable fibrous insulation materials preferably comprise glass fibres and / or synthetic fibres. Suitably, the fibrous insulation material allows light to pass through and is preferably translucent.

[0022] Preferably, the central portion of the inner glazing element comprises a plastics material, more preferably polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene polycarbonate or acrylic.

[0023] Preferably, the central portion of the inner glazing element comprises an elastomer, more preferably silicone rubber, EPDM or neoprene.

[0024] Preferably, the central portion of the interior window glass element has a multi-wall structure, which includes a first wall facing the web of the first groove-section window glass element and a second wall facing the web of the second groove-section window glass element, and there are multiple air spaces between the first wall and the second wall of the central portion of the interior window glass element.

[0025] Preferably, the central portion of the inner glazing element comprises fibrous insulation material. Suitable fibrous insulation materials preferably comprise glass fibres and / or synthetic fibres.

[0026] Preferably, the end of the first flange of the first groove-section glazing element is greater than 1 mm and / or less than 50 mm, preferably greater than 1 mm and / or less than 30 mm, from the web of the second groove-section glazing element.

[0027] Preferably, the end of the first flange of the first groove-section glazing element is greater than 1 mm and / or less than 20 mm, preferably greater than 1 mm and / or less than 10 mm, from the web of the second groove-section glazing element.

[0028] Preferably, the central portion of the inner glazing element is sized to fill the space between the web of the first groove-section glazing element and the web of the second groove-section glazing element.

[0029] Preferably, the glazing is arranged such that there is a first space between a central portion of the inner glazing element and the web of the first groove-section glazing element and / or a second space between a central portion of the inner glazing element and the web of the second groove-section glazing element.

[0030] Preferably, the central portion of the interior glazing element comprises at least a first wall spaced apart from a second wall, the first wall and the second wall of the central portion of the interior glazing element having at least one space therebetween.

[0031] Preferably, the central portion of the interior window glass element has a multi-wall structure, which includes a first wall facing the web of the first groove-section window glass element and a second wall facing the web of the second groove-section window glass element, and there are multiple air spaces between the first wall and the second wall of the central portion of the interior window glass element.

[0032] Such multi-walled plastic sheets are well known in the art, see for example DE 27 22 817 A1, EP 0 050 462 A1, DE 20 201 10 03 120 U1, DE 20 201 1 109 408 U1 and DE 20 201 1 106 659 U1.

[0033] Preferably, the web of the first groove-section window glass element has a second flange extending along its second lateral edge, and the second lateral edge of the web of the first groove-section window glass element is opposite to the first lateral edge of the web of the first groove-section window glass element, and more preferably, the first groove-section window glass element has a U-shaped profile.

[0034] Preferably, the web of the second groove-section window glass element has a second flange extending along its second lateral edge, and the second lateral edge of the web of the second groove-section window glass element is opposite to the first lateral edge of the web of the second groove-section window glass element, and more preferably, the second groove-section window glass element has a U-shaped profile.

[0035] In some embodiments, before being compressed, the first portion of the first edge portion has a thickness between 10 mm and 30 mm, and / or after being compressed, the first portion of the first edge portion has a thickness between 1 mm and 10 mm, and the thickness after compression is less than the thickness before compression.

[0036] In some embodiments, before being compressed, the first portion of the first edge portion of the interior glazing element has a circular cross-section and / or after being compressed, the first portion of the first edge portion of the interior glazing element has an elliptical cross-section.

[0037] In some embodiments, the central portion is made of a first material having a first chemical composition and the first edge portion is made of a second material having a second chemical composition, wherein the first chemical composition is the same as the second chemical composition.

[0038] Preferably, the first edge portion of the inner glazing element is integrally formed with the central portion of the inner glazing element.

[0039] Preferably, the first edge portion is joined to the central portion.

[0040] Preferably, the first edge portion of the interior glazing element is joined to the central portion of the interior glazing element by being fused with or to the central portion of the interior glazing element.

[0041] Preferably, the first edge portion of the interior glazing element is heat fused to or with the central portion of the interior glazing element.

[0042] Preferably, the inner glazing element is formed by an extrusion process, wherein the central portion and the first edge portion are formed by extruding a first material through a first die and a second material through a second die.

[0043] Preferably, the first material and the second material are co-extruded simultaneously.

[0044] Interior glazing elements formed by an extrusion process are referred to herein as extruded interior glazing elements.

[0045] Preferably, the interior glazing element is an extruded interior glazing element.

[0046] Preferably, the first edge portion of the inner glazing element is bonded to the central portion of the inner glazing element by an adhesive, more preferably a permanent adhesive or a re-adhesive adhesive.

[0047] Preferably, the first edge portion of the inner glazing element is joined to the central portion of the inner glazing element by a mechanical fastener, more preferably a hook and loop fastener.

[0048] In some embodiments, the central portion is made of a first material having a first chemical composition and the first edge portion is made of a second material having a second chemical composition, wherein the first chemical composition is different than the second chemical composition.

[0049] Preferably, the first edge portion of the inner glazing element is integrally formed with the central portion of the inner glazing element.

[0050] Preferably, the first edge portion of the inner glazing element is joined to a central portion of the inner glazing element.

[0051] Preferably, the first edge portion of the interior glazing element is joined to the central portion of the interior glazing element by being fused with or to the central portion of the interior glazing element.

[0052] Preferably, the first edge portion of the interior glazing element is heat fused to or with the central portion of the interior glazing element.

[0053] Preferably, the inner glazing element is formed by an extrusion process, wherein the central portion and the first edge portion of the inner glazing element are formed by extruding a first material through a first die and a second material through a second die.

[0054] Preferably, the first material and the second material are co-extruded simultaneously.

[0055] A suitable extrusion process is described in US 4,884,616.

[0056] Preferably, the interior glazing element is an extruded interior glazing element.

[0057] Preferably, the first edge portion of the inner glazing element is bonded to the central portion of the inner glazing element by an adhesive, more preferably a permanent adhesive or a re-adhesive adhesive.

[0058] Preferably, the first edge portion of the inner glazing element is joined to the central portion of the inner glazing element by a mechanical fastener, more preferably a hook and loop fastener.

[0059] In embodiments in which the first edge portion of the inner glazing element is joined to the central portion of the inner glazing element by heat fusing with or to the central portion of the inner glazing element, heat fusing is preferably achieved using welding.

[0060] In some embodiments, the first edge portion of the inner glazing element is integrally formed with the central portion of the inner glazing element.

[0061] Preferably, the interior glazing element is an extruded interior glazing element.

[0062] Preferably, the inner glazing element is made from a fibrous insulating material, more preferably a fibrous wool material comprising bundles of fibres. Suitable fibres include synthetic fibres and glass fibres.

[0063] In some embodiments, the end of the first flange of the second groove section window glass element faces the web of the first groove section window glass element, so that the end of the first flange of the second groove section window glass element is positioned at a certain distance relative to the web of the second groove section window glass element, so that the end of the first flange of the second groove section window glass element is separated from the web of the first groove section window glass element by a second space.

[0064] Preferably, the first portion of the second edge portion of the internal window glass element is positioned in a second space between the end of the first flange of the second groove-section window glass element and the web of the first groove-section window glass element, preferably wherein the first portion of the second edge portion of the internal window glass element is compressed by positioning the end of the first flange of the second groove-section window glass element relative to the web of the first groove-section window glass element to form the second space.

[0065] In an embodiment in which the web of the first groove-section window glass element has a second flange extending along its second lateral edge, the second lateral edge of the web of the first groove-section window glass element is opposite to the first lateral edge of the web of the first groove-section window glass element, and preferably the first flange of the second groove-section window glass element is received in the space between the first flange and the second flange of the first groove-section window glass element.

[0066] In some embodiments, the web of the first groove-section glass element has a second flange extending along its second lateral edge, the second lateral edge of the web of the first groove-section window glass element is opposite to the first lateral edge of the web of the first groove-section window glass element, preferably wherein the first groove-section window glass element has a U-shaped profile; and the web of the second groove-section window glass element has a second flange extending along its second lateral edge, the second lateral edge of the web of the second groove-section window glass element is opposite to the first lateral edge of the web of the second groove-section window glass element, preferably wherein the second groove-section window glass element has a U-shaped profile; and the end of the first flange of the first groove-section window glass element faces the end of the first flange of the second groove-section window glass element, and the end of the second flange of the first groove-section window glass element faces the end of the second flange of the second groove-section window glass element.

[0067] Preferably, the first edge portion of the interior window glass element includes a first connecting portion, and the first connecting portion of the first edge portion of the interior window glass element is mechanically connected to the first flange of the first groove-section window glass element and the second groove-section window glass element, preferably wherein the first connecting portion of the first edge portion of the interior window glass element is attached to the first flange of the first groove-section window glass element and the second groove-section window glass element.

[0068] Preferably, the second edge portion of the interior window glass element includes a second connecting portion, and wherein the second connecting portion of the interior window glass element is mechanically connected to the second flange of the first groove section window glass element and the second groove section window glass element, preferably wherein the second connecting portion of the interior window glass element is attached to the second flange of the first groove section window glass element and the second groove section window glass element.

[0069] In some embodiments, the window glass also includes a third groove section window glass element, which includes a web and a first flange extending along its first lateral edge, and the window glass is arranged so that the first flange of the first groove section window glass element faces the web of the third groove section window glass element; the first flanges of the second groove section window glass element and the third groove section window glass element face the web of the first groove section window glass element, and wherein the first flange of the third groove section window glass element is located between the first flange of the first groove section window glass element and the first flange of the second groove section window glass element.

[0070] Preferably, the web of the first groove section window glass element has a second flange extending along its second lateral edge, the second lateral edge of the web of the first groove section window glass element is opposite to the first lateral edge of the web of the first groove section window glass element, more preferably wherein the first groove section window glass element has a U-shaped profile; and wherein the web of the second groove section window glass element has a second flange extending along its second lateral edge, the second lateral edge of the web of the second groove section window glass element is opposite to the first lateral edge of the web of the second groove section window glass element, more preferably wherein the second groove section window glass element has a U-shaped profile; wherein the second flange of the first groove section window glass element faces the web of the second groove section window glass element.

[0071] Preferably, the first edge portion of the interior window glass element comprises a first connection portion, wherein the first connection portion of the first edge portion of the interior window glass element is mechanically connected to the first flange of the second groove-section window glass element and / or the first flange of the third groove-section window glass element, preferably wherein the first connection portion of the first edge portion of the interior window glass element is attached to the first flange of the second groove-section window glass element and / or the first flange of the third groove-section window glass element.

[0072] Preferably, the window glass also includes a fourth groove section window glass element, which includes a web and a first flange extending along its first lateral edge, and the window glass is arranged so that the first flange of the fourth groove section window glass element faces the web of the second groove section window glass element; and wherein the first flange of the fourth groove section window glass element is located between the second flange of the first groove section window glass element and the second flange of the second groove section window glass element.

[0073] Preferably, the second edge portion of the interior window glass element includes a second connecting portion, and wherein the second connecting portion of the second edge portion of the interior window glass element is mechanically connected to the second flange of the first groove section window glass element and the second groove section window glass element, preferably wherein the second connecting portion of the second edge portion of the interior window glass element is attached to the second flange of the first groove section window glass element and the second groove section window glass element.

[0074] Preferably, the second connection portion of the second edge portion of the inner glazing element is in mechanical communication with the first flange of the fourth groove-section glazing element, preferably wherein the second connection portion of the second edge portion of the inner glazing element is attached to the first flange of the fourth groove-section glazing element.

[0075] Other embodiments have other preferred features.

[0076] Preferably, the web of the first groove-section glazing element has a second flange extending along its second lateral edge, the second lateral edge of the web of the first groove-section glazing element being opposite the first lateral edge of the web of the first groove-section glazing element. Preferably, both the first flange and the second flange of the first groove-section glazing element project away from the web in the same direction.

[0077] Preferably, the web of the second groove-section glazing element has a second flange extending along a second lateral edge thereof, the second lateral edge of the web of the second groove-section glazing element being opposite the first lateral edge of the web of the second groove-section glazing element. Preferably, both the first flange and the second flange of the second groove-section glazing element project away from the web in the same direction.

[0078] The web of the first groove-section glazing element has a first major surface and a second opposed major surface. Preferably, at least a portion of the first major surface and / or the second major surface of the web of the first groove-section glazing element has a coating thereon. Preferably, the coating is a low-emissivity coating. Preferably, the coating is a solar control coating.

[0079] The web of the second groove-section glazing element has a first major surface and a second opposed major surface. Preferably, at least a portion of the first major surface and / or the second major surface of the web of the second groove-section glazing element has a coating thereon. Preferably, the coating is a low-emissivity coating. Preferably, the coating is a solar control coating.

[0080] In a preferred embodiment glazing, the first groove-section glazing element and the second groove-section glazing element each include a web, a first flange and a second flange, the first flange extending along a first lateral edge of the respective web, and the second flange extending along a second lateral edge of the respective web, the first lateral edge of the web being opposite the second lateral edge of the web, the first groove-section glazing element and the second groove-section glazing element being arranged such that the first flange of the first groove-section glazing element faces the first flange of the second groove-section glazing element, and the second flange of the first groove-section glazing element faces the second flange of the second groove-section glazing element. In this arrangement, preferably, the first flange of the first groove-section glazing element is coplanar with the first flange of the second groove-section glazing element, and the second flange of the first groove-section glazing element is coplanar with the second flange of the second groove-section glazing element.

[0081] Preferably, the inner glazing element extends between the first flange and the second flange of the first channel-section glazing element.

[0082] Preferably, the inner glazing element extends between the first flange and the second flange of the second channel-section glazing element.

[0083] Preferably, the first groove-section glazing element and the second groove-section glazing element are separated by a gap, and the inner glazing element is positioned in the gap.

[0084] In embodiments where the first groove-section glazing element has a first flange and a second flange, preferably the first flange of the second groove-section glazing element is received in the space between the first flange and the second flange of the first groove-section glazing element.

[0085] In some embodiments, the web of the first groove-section glazing element and / or the second groove-section glazing element is curved or corrugated, for example as in the groove-section glazing elements described in WO2008068324A1.

[0086] In some embodiments, the first channel-section glazing element is made of annealed glass rather than heat-tempered glass and the second channel-section glazing element is made of annealed glass rather than heat-tempered glass.

[0087] In other embodiments, the first channel-section glazing element is made of annealed glass rather than heat-tempered glass and the second channel-section glazing element is made of annealed glass rather than heat-tempered glass.

[0088] The glazing according to the first aspect of the invention has other preferred features.

[0089] Preferably, the central portion of the inner glazing element is monolithic.

[0090] Preferably, the first groove-section glazing element and / or the second groove-section glazing element is optically clear.

[0091] Preferably, the first groove-section glazing element and / or the second groove-section glazing element are laminated.

[0092] Preferably, the first groove-section glazing element and / or the second groove-section glazing element is coated on at least a portion thereof to provide the respective groove-section glazing element with an area having a different colour in reflected or transmitted light compared to an uncoated groove-section glazing element. Such a coating may be optically opaque. Suitably, the coating is a paint.

[0093] Preferably, the web of the first groove-section glazing element and / or the second groove-section glazing element has a thickness between 4 mm and 12 mm, more preferably between 5 mm and 8 mm.

[0094] Preferably, the or each flange of the first groove-section glazing element and / or the second groove-section glazing element has a thickness of between 4 mm and 12 mm, more preferably between 5 mm and 8 mm.

[0095] Preferably, the thickness of the web of the first groove-section glazing element is the same as the thickness of the or each flange of the first groove-section glazing element.

[0096] Preferably, the thickness of the web of the second groove-section glazing element is the same as the thickness of the or each flange of the first groove-section glazing element.

[0097] Suitable coatings that can be used for glazings according to the invention include low emissivity coatings, conductive coatings and solar control coatings. A low emissivity coating is one which, when applied to clear 3 mm thick float glass, results in the coated glass having an emissivity in the range 0.05 to 0.45, actual values ​​being measured in accordance with EN 12898 (a published standard of the European Association of Flat Glass Manufacturers). Suitably, the low emissivity coating comprises at least one layer comprising tin oxide.

[0098] Typical solar control coatings include layers of silver or tin oxide and control the amount of heat absorbed by the coated glass. Solar control coatings and low-emissivity coatings can also be electrically conductive and, therefore, not only provide functionality to the glass in terms of emissivity and heat transfer, but also form a conductive substrate for mounting conductive devices.

[0099] Such coatings may be applied using techniques known in the art, such as atmospheric pressure chemical vapor deposition or spray pyrolysis.

[0100] When the first groove-section glazing element and / or the second groove-section glazing element has two flanges, preferably the thickness of each flange is the same.

[0101] In embodiments in which the interior glazing element has a central portion of multi-walled construction, preferably at least one of the walls of the central portion has a thickness of less than about 5 mm and / or a thickness of more than 0.05 mm. The thickness of at least one of the walls of the central portion may be between 0.5 mm and 3 mm.

[0102] In embodiments in which the first edge portion of the interior glazing element preferably has a first connecting portion of multi-walled construction, preferably at least one of the walls of the first connecting portion has a thickness of less than about 5 mm and / or a thickness of more than 0.05 mm. The thickness of at least one of the first connecting portions may be between 0.5 mm and 3 mm.

[0103] In embodiments in which the second edge portion of the interior glazing element preferably has a second connecting portion of multi-walled construction, preferably at least one of the walls of the second connecting portion has a thickness of less than about 5 mm and / or a thickness of more than 0.05 mm. The thickness of at least one of the first connecting portions may be between 0.5 mm and 3 mm.

[0104] In embodiments where the inner glazing element preferably has a central portion of multi-wall construction, preferably the central portion has a thickness of between 5 mm and 500 mm, or 400 mm, or 300 mm, or 200 mm, or 100 mm. The central portion may have fewer than 50 walls extending along a first axis, the first axis preferably being parallel to the web of the first groove-section glazing element and / or the second groove-section glazing element. The central portion preferably has a plurality of walls extending along a second axis, the second axis preferably being perpendicular to the web of the first groove-section glazing element and / or the second groove-section glazing element.

[0105] In embodiments wherein the first edge portion of the interior glazing element preferably has a first connecting portion of multi-walled construction, preferably the first connecting portion has a thickness between 1 mm and 200 mm. The first connecting portion preferably has a plurality of walls extending along a first axis, the second axis preferably being perpendicular to the web of the first groove-section glazing element and / or the second groove-section glazing element. The first connecting portion preferably has a plurality of walls extending along a second axis, the second axis preferably being perpendicular to the web of the first groove-section glazing element and / or the second groove-section glazing element.

[0106] In embodiments wherein the second edge portion of the interior glazing element preferably has a second connecting portion of multi-walled construction, preferably the second connecting portion has a thickness between 1 mm and 200 mm. The second connecting portion preferably has a plurality of walls extending along a first axis, the second axis preferably being perpendicular to the web of the first groove-section glazing element and / or the second groove-section glazing element. The second connecting portion preferably has a plurality of walls extending along a second axis, the second axis preferably being perpendicular to the web of the first groove-section glazing element and / or the second groove-section glazing element.

[0107] In an embodiment in which the window glass is arranged so that there is a first space between the central portion of the inner window glass element and the web of the first groove section window glass element and a second space between the central portion of the inner window glass element and the web of the second groove section window glass element, the webs of the first groove section window glass element and the second groove section window glass element are separated by a spacing and the central portion has a thickness that is less than the spacing between the webs of the first groove section window glass element and the second groove section window glass element.

[0108] Preferably, the central portion has a thickness less than 90% of the spacing between the webs of the first groove section element and the second groove section element, more preferably less than 80%, or 70%, or 60%, or 50%, or 40%, or 30%, or 20%, or 10%, or 5% of the spacing between the webs of the first groove section element and the second groove section element.

[0109] Preferably, the central portion has a thickness of at least 2% or 3% or 4% of the spacing between the webs of the first and second groove-section elements.

[0110] Preferably, the central portion has a thickness between 0.5 cm and 50 cm, more preferably between 0.5 cm and 40 cm, or 30 cm, or 20 cm, or 10 cm, or 5 cm.

[0111] In some embodiments, the first edge portion of the inner glazing element is bonded to the central portion of the inner glazing element by an adhesive.

[0112] Any suitable adhesive may be used. The adhesive may be a permanent adhesive or a re-adhesive adhesive.

[0113] Prior to bonding the first edge portion of the interior glazing element to the central portion of the interior glazing element, the adhesive is preferably in sheet form or in liquid form.

[0114] An example of an adhesive in sheet form is a double-sided tape.

[0115] Most preferably the adhesive is in liquid form.

[0116] Suitable adhesives include acrylic, anaerobic, cyanoacrylate and epoxy adhesives.

[0117] The adhesive may be a hot melt adhesive.If the adhesive is a hot melt adhesive, the temperature used to provide the hot melt adhesive is preferably below a temperature that may cause degradation, deformation or decomposition of the central portion or the first edge portion of the inner glazing element.

[0118] When the second edge portion is bonded to the central portion of the inner glazing element, the adhesive bonding just described may be used to bond the second edge portion to the central portion of the inner glazing element.

[0119] In some embodiments, the first edge portion of the inner glazing element is joined to the central portion of the inner glazing element by a mechanical fastener.

[0120] Suitable mechanical fasteners include hook and loop fasteners, such as Velcro type materials.

[0121] When the second edge portion is joined to the central portion of the inner glazing element, mechanical fasteners as just described in relation to joining the first edge portion of the inner glazing element to the central portion of the inner glazing element may be used.

[0122] In some embodiments, the first edge portion of the inner glazing element is joined to the central portion of the inner glazing element by welding to the central portion of the inner glazing element.

[0123] The welding provides a means of thermally fusing the first edge portion of the inner glazing element to the central portion of the inner glazing element.

[0124] When the first material and the second material are plastic materials, plastic welding may be used to join the first edge portion of the inner glazing element to the central portion of the inner glazing element.

[0125] When the second edge portion is joined to the central portion of the inner glazing element, the welding just described in relation to the welding of the first edge portion of the inner glazing element to the central portion of the inner glazing element may be used.

[0126] In some embodiments, the first edge portion of the interior glazing element is joined to the central portion of the interior glazing element by being fused with or to the central portion of the interior glazing element.

[0127] Preferably, the first edge portion of the interior glazing element is heat fused to or with the central portion of the interior glazing element.

[0128] In these embodiments, in order to bond the first edge portion of the interior window glass element to the central portion of the interior window glass element, the temperature of at least a portion of the first edge portion of the interior window glass element is raised to soften the first material, and the heat-softened portion of the first edge portion contacts the first side of the central portion of the interior window glass element to bond thereto.

[0129] In addition or alternatively, in order to bond the first edge portion of the interior window glass element to the central portion of the interior window glass element, the temperature of at least a portion of the first side of the central portion of the interior window glass element is raised to soften the second material, and the heat-softened portion of the central portion contacts the first edge portion to bond thereto.

[0130] If both the first edge portion and the central portion are heated to soften the first material and the second material for bonding, the heat-softened portions preferably come into contact together to enable bonding.

[0131] When manufacturing the inner glazing element, for example by using an extrusion process, fusing of the first edge portion of the inner glazing element with the central portion of the inner glazing element may occur.

[0132] When the second edge portion is bonded to the central portion of the interior window glass element, the second edge portion may be fused to the central portion of the interior window glass element, as just described with respect to the first edge portion of the interior window glass element being bonded to the central portion of the interior window glass element by fusing with the central portion of the interior window glass element.

[0133] In some embodiments, the first edge portion of the inner glazing element is joined to the central portion of the inner glazing element by being integrally formed with the central portion of the inner glazing element.

[0134] In such an embodiment, the inner glazing element is preferably formed by an extrusion process, wherein the central portion and the first edge portion are formed by extruding a first material through a first die and a second material through a second die.

[0135] The first mould and the second mould are preferably part of a mould assembly.

[0136] Preferably, the first material and the second material are co-extruded simultaneously.

[0137] A suitable extrusion process is described in US 4,884,616.

[0138] In such an embodiment, it is preferred that the first edge portion of the inner glazing element is fused to or with the central portion of the inner glazing element.

[0139] When the second edge portion is joined to the central portion of the inner glazing element, the second edge portion and the central portion of the inner glazing element may be integrally formed in the same manner as just described when the first edge portion of the inner glazing element and the central portion of the inner glazing element are integrally formed.

[0140] In some embodiments, the first edge portion and / or the second edge portion of the inner glazing element is integrally formed with the central portion of the inner glazing element.

[0141] In some embodiments, the central portion is made of a first material and the first edge portion is made of a second material, wherein the first material is harder than the second material.

[0142] The relative hardness of the materials can be determined using standard techniques, for example, as defined in the ASTM D2240 Type A and Type D scales. Preferably, the hardness of the first material, the second material and the third material is determined using methods as defined in the ASTM D2240 Type A and Type D scales.

[0143] The hardness of a material can be measured using the known durometer scale.

[0144] Preferably, the first material has a first Shore A hardness and the second material has a second Shore A hardness, wherein the first Shore A hardness is greater than the second Shore A hardness.

[0145] Preferably, the second material has a Shore A hardness of less than 120.

[0146] Preferably, the first material has a Shore A hardness greater than 50.

[0147] Preferably, the first material has a Shore D hardness greater than 50.

[0148] Preferably, the second material has a Shore A hardness greater than 10.

[0149] Preferably, the first material has a Shore D hardness of less than 120.

[0150] The present invention also provides, from a second aspect, an internal window glass element for a window glass according to the first aspect of the present invention, the internal window glass element comprising: a central part, a first edge part extending along a first side of the central part; and a second edge part extending along a second side of the central part, the first side of the central part being opposite to the second side of the central part, the central part of the internal window glass element having a first main surface, a second main surface and a thickness, the thickness of the central part of the internal window glass element being the distance between the first main surface and the second main surface of the central part of the internal window glass element; the first edge part of the internal window glass element having a thickness in a direction parallel to the thickness of the central part of the internal window glass element, wherein the thickness of the first edge part of the internal window glass element is less than the thickness of the central part of the internal window glass element; in addition, wherein the first edge part of the internal window glass element is bonded to the central part of the internal window glass element and / or formed integrally with the central part of the internal window glass element; and wherein the first edge part of the internal window glass element comprises at least a first compressible part.

[0151] Preferably, the first compressible portion of the first edge portion of the interior window glass element is reversibly compressible so that when a force is applied to the first edge portion of the interior window glass element, the first edge portion of the interior window glass element has a certain shape, the shape of the first edge portion of the interior window glass element changes from a first shape to a second shape, and when the applied force is removed, the shape of the first edge portion of the interior window glass element returns to the first shape.

[0152] Preferably, the second edge portion of the interior window glass element has a thickness in a direction parallel to the thickness of the central portion of the interior window glass element, wherein the thickness of the second edge portion of the interior window glass element is less than the thickness of the central portion of the interior window glass element; further wherein the second edge portion of the interior window glass element is coupled to the central portion of the interior window glass element and / or formed integrally therewith; and wherein the second edge portion of the interior window glass element includes at least a first compressible portion.

[0153] Preferably, the first compressible portion of the second edge portion of the interior window glass element is reversibly compressible so that when a force is applied to the second edge portion of the interior window glass element, the second edge portion of the interior window glass element has a certain shape, the shape of the second edge portion of the interior window glass element changes from a first shape to a second shape, and when the applied force is removed, the shape of the second edge portion of the interior window glass element returns to the first shape.

[0154] Preferably, the central portion of the inner glazing element comprises polycarbonate, polyester or acrylic.A suitable polyester is polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0155] Preferably, the central portion of the inner glazing element comprises fibre bundles or fibrous insulation. Suitable fibres include glass fibres and / or synthetic fibres.

[0156] Preferably, the first edge portion and / or the second edge portion of the inner glazing element comprises polyvinyl chloride (PVC), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polycarbonate, polyester, polyolefin, elastomer or polyurethane.

[0157] Preferably, the first edge portion of the interior glazing element comprises at least a first cavity having a first shape therein, and wherein upon compression of the first edge portion having the first cavity therein, the shape of the first cavity in the first edge portion changes.

[0158] Preferably, the second edge portion comprises at least a first cavity having a first shape therein, and wherein upon compression of the second edge portion having the first cavity therein, the shape of the first cavity in the second edge portion changes.

[0159] Preferably, the first edge portion of the inner glazing element is joined to a central portion of the inner glazing element.

[0160] Preferably, the second edge portion of the inner glazing element is joined to the central portion of the inner glazing element.

[0161] Preferably, the first edge portion of the inner glazing element is integrally formed with the central portion of the inner glazing element.

[0162] Preferably, the second edge portion of the inner glazing element is integrally formed with the central portion of the inner glazing element.

[0163] Preferably, the interior glazing element is made using an extrusion process, such that the interior glazing element is an extruded interior glazing element.

[0164] Preferably, at least one of the central portion of the inner glazing element, the first edge portion of the inner glazing element and the second edge portion of the inner glazing element comprises a plastic material. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0165] The invention will now be described with reference to the following drawings (not to scale), in which:

[0166] Figure 1 is an isometric projection of a channel-section glazing element having only one flange continuous with the web;

[0167] Figure 2 is an isometric projection of a channel-section glazing element having a web and two flanges continuous with the web;

[0168] Figure 3 is a front view of a portion of a facade for a building, the facade including four channel-section glazing elements;

[0169] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a glazing according to the invention;

[0170] Figure 5 is used Figure 4 A schematic isometric view of a portion of an inner glazing element of the glazing shown in;

[0171] Figure 6 is Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of an inner glazing element used in the glazing shown;

[0172] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of another glazing according to the present invention;

[0173] Figure 8 Yes Figure 7 a cross-sectional view of a facade of three window panes of the type shown in;

[0174] Figures 9 to 12 yes Figure 4 or Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of a corner of a window pane of the type shown in, to illustrate its construction;

[0175] Another window pane according to the present invention;

[0176] Fig.13is a cross-sectional view of another glazing according to the present invention;

[0177] Fig.14 is Fig.13 a cross-sectional view of an inner glazing element used in the construction of the glazing shown in; and

[0178] Fig.15 is Fig.13 Schematic isometric view of the interior glazing used in the construction of the glazing shown in . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0179] Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of a type of grooved section glazing element 2 which can be used to make a glazing according to the invention is shown. The grooved section glazing element 2 has a flange 2a and a web 2c formed integrally with the flange. The flange 2a is continuous with the web 2c and the grooved section glazing element 2 is bent from an initially flat glass sheet or ribbon, for example as described in DE 1496047 A1. The width 7 of the web can be a few centimeters, while the length 6 of the web can be tens of centimeters up to several meters.

[0180] The flange 2a has a first main surface 2d and an opposite second main surface 2e (not indicated in the figure). The web 2c has a first main surface 2f and an opposite second main surface 2g (not indicated in the figure).

[0181] The flange 2a is substantially perpendicular to the web 2c. In this example, the web 2c has a thickness of 7 mm and the flange 2a has a thickness of 7 mm.

[0182] With reference to the coordinate system shown, the web 2c is parallel to the plane xz. The flange 2a is parallel to the plane yz. When viewed along the z-axis, the channel-section glazing element 2 has an "L" shaped cross-sectional profile.

[0183] Figure 2 There is shown a schematic perspective view of another type of channel-section glazing element 12 that can be used to make glazing according to the invention.

[0184] The groove-section glazing element 12 has a first flange 12a, a second flange 12b and a web 12c. The flanges 12a, 12b are continuous with the web 12c (thus formed in one piece), and the groove-section glazing element 12 is bent from an initially flat glass sheet or ribbon, for example as described in DE 1496047 A1. The width 17 of the web may be a few centimeters, while the length 16 of the web may be several tens of centimeters up to several meters, for example 3 m to 10 m.

[0185] The first flange 12a has a first main surface 12d and an opposite second main surface 12e (not indicated in the figure). The second flange 12b has a first main surface 12h (not indicated in the figure) and an opposite second main surface 12i. The web 12c has a first main surface 12f and an opposite second main surface 12g (not indicated in the figure). The surface 12d of the first flange 12a faces the surface 12h of the second flange 12b.

[0186] The flanges 12a, 12b are each substantially perpendicular to the web 12c. In this example, the web 12c has a thickness of 7 mm and the flanges 12a, 12b each have a thickness of 7 mm.

[0187] With reference to the coordinate system shown, the web 12c is parallel to the plane xz. The flanges 12a, 12b are parallel to the plane yz. The channel-section glazing element 12 has a "U" shaped cross-sectional profile when viewed along the z-axis.

[0188] The description of the groove-section glazing elements 2, 12 is applicable to the groove-section glazing elements described below.

[0189] Figure 3 A front view of a portion of a facade 9 for a building is shown, the facade comprising reference Figure 1 or Figure 2 Four groove section glazing elements of the type described. Figure 1 and Figure 2 , viewing the facade in the y-axis direction.

[0190] Each groove-section glazing element 2 or 12 is arranged vertically in a supporting or mounting frame (not shown) as is known in the art.For each groove-section glazing element 2 or 12 in the facade, there may be a suitable sealant material between adjacent longitudinal edges.

[0191] The facade 9 may alternatively comprise horizontally oriented channel-section glazing elements.

[0192] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a window pane 21 according to the invention is shown. Figure 1 , which is the view in the z-axis direction.

[0193] The glazing 21 has a first groove-section glazing element 22 of annealed glass. The first groove-section glazing element 22 has a flange 22a and a web 22c. The flange 22a is continuous with the web 22c and the first groove-section glazing element is bent from an initially flat glass sheet or ribbon, for example as described in DE 1496047 A1.

[0194] The flange 22a is substantially perpendicular to the web 22c. The web 2c has a thickness of 7 mm. The flange 22a has a thickness of 7 mm.

[0195] The glazing 21 also has a second groove section glazing element 24 of annealed glass. The second groove section glazing element 24 has a flange 24a and a web 24c. The flange 24a is continuous with the web 24c, and the first groove section glazing element is bent from an initially flat glass sheet or ribbon, for example, as described in DE 1496047 A1.

[0196] The flange 24a is substantially perpendicular to the web 24c. The web 24c has a thickness of 7 mm. The flange 24a has a thickness of 7 mm.

[0197] The second groove-section glazing element 24 has substantially the same dimensions as the first groove-section glazing element 22 .

[0198] Both channel-section glazing elements 22, 24 are made of soda-lime-silica glass.

[0199] The first groove section glazing element and the second groove section glazing element are arranged so that the flange 22a of the first groove section glazing element face 22 faces the second groove section glazing element 24, and the flange 24a of the second groove section glazing element 24 faces the first groove section glazing element 22. In this arrangement, the interior facing surfaces of the groove section glazing elements 22, 24 define a cavity.

[0200] The flange 22a has an end facing the web 24c, and the flange 24a has an end facing the web 22c.

[0201] There may be a low emissivity coating on the surface of webs 22c and / or 24c facing into the cavity.

[0202] According to the present invention, Figure 4 The glazing 21 shown in Figure 1 comprises an inner glazing element 26 located between a first groove-section glazing element 22 and a second groove-section glazing element 24. The inner glazing element 26 has a central portion 26a, a first edge portion 26b and a second edge portion 26c.

[0203] The first edge portion 26b is integrally formed with the central portion 26a on a first side, and the second edge portion 26c is integrally formed with the central portion 26a on a second side, the first side of the central portion 26a being opposite to the second side of the central portion 26a.

[0204] The inner glazing element 26 is made from a fibrous insulation material such as mineral fibre wool, but any fibrous like material providing suitable thermal insulation may be used, for example fibreglass insulation or synthetic fibre insulation.

[0205] The first edge portion 26b is in contact with the end of the flange 22a facing the web 24c, and the second edge portion 26c is in contact with the end of the flange 24a facing the web 22c.

[0206] The first edge portion 26b is compressed between the end of the flange 22a facing the web 24c and a portion of the web 24c. The second edge portion is compressed between the end of the flange 24a facing the web 22c and a portion of the web 22c.

[0207] The central portion 26a may be somewhat compressed between the webs 22c, 24c, but typically the central portion is sized so that the central portion 26a is not compressed between the webs 22c, 24c.

[0208] The inner window glass element 26 is held in the correct position due to the clamping action between the end of the flange 22a facing the web 24c and a portion of the web 24c on the first edge portion 26b. There is also a clamping action between the end of the flange 24a facing the web 24c and a portion of the web 22c on the second edge portion 26c to hold the inner window glass element in the correct position.

[0209] The first (and second) edge portions 26b (26c) in the compressed state fully seal the space between the end of the flange 22a (24a) facing the web 24c (22c) and the web 24c (22c). This also provides a resilient or flexible seal that can move when the web 22c and / or web 24c is impacted, thereby providing both a seal and a shock absorber.

[0210] Figure 5 Shows that Figure 4 Schematic isometric view of an interior glazing element 26 of the configuration shown in FIG. 1. That is, the first edge portion 26b and the second edge portion 26c are compressed. Figure 5 Also shown in dashed lines are the positions of the first edge portion and the second edge portion when they are not compressed.

[0211] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the inner glazing element through the plane AA' is shown. Figure 6 A first edge portion in an uncompressed state is shown as portion 26b', and a second edge portion in an uncompressed state is shown as 26c'.

[0212] Applying a force in the direction of arrow 27 causes the uncompressed edge portion 26b' to be compressed into a compressed first edge portion 26b, such as Figure 4Applying a force in the direction of arrow 29 causes the uncompressed edge portion 26c' to be compressed to the compressed second edge portion 26c, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 as shown in .

[0213] The inner glazing element 26 has the same length as the length of the channel-section glazing elements 22, 24. The width of the inner glazing element 26 is approximately the same as the distance between the inner surfaces of the flanges 22a, 24a. The width of the inner glazing element 26 is such that the inner glazing element fits snugly between the flanges 22a, 24a.

[0214] About Figure 4 In the orientation of the glazing 21 shown in FIG, there may be an upper space between the web 24c and the central portion 26a of the inner glazing element, and there may be a lower space between the central portion 26a of the inner glazing element and the web 22c.

[0215] The central portion 26a has a thickness of about 10-20 cm. The first edge portion 26b and the second edge portion 26c have a thickness of about 5-10 mm in a compressed state.

[0216] The interior glazing element 26 may be formed by first providing a sheet of fibrous insulation material, such as obtained from a roll of fibrous batts. The sheet of fibrous insulation material may then be cut to size. Thereafter, the edge portions may be removed by cutting to provide an interior glazing element having a central portion 26a with edge portions 26b' and 26c', such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 as shown in .

[0217] In an alternative embodiment, the first edge portion 26b' and the second edge portion 26c' may be separately provided and attached to the central portion 26a to provide a Figure 5 and Figure 6 The inner glazing element 26 is shown in FIG. The edge portions 26b', 26c' may be attached to the central portion using a suitable adhesive or mechanical fastener. Providing this alternative embodiment of the inner glazing element 26 has the following advantages: the material of the central portion 26a may be selected to have desired thermal and / or light management properties, while the edge portions 26b', 26c' may be selected to provide the inner glazing element with desired properties to seal the space between the flange end and the web and / or provide suitable shock absorbing characteristics.

[0218] Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of another glazing 51 according to the first aspect of the invention is shown. Figure 2 , which is the view in the z-axis direction.

[0219] The glazing 51 has a first groove section glazing element 52 having a first flange 52a, a second flange 52b and a web 52c. The flanges 52a, 52b are continuous with the web 52c and the first groove section glazing element has been bent from an initially flat sheet or ribbon of glass, for example as described in DE 1496047 A1.

[0220] The glazing 51 also has a second groove section glazing element 54 having a first flange 54a, a second flange 54b and a web 54c. The first groove section glazing element 52 has the same dimensions as the second groove section glazing element 54. This is advantageous because the first groove section glazing element and the second groove section glazing element can be made during the same production run.

[0221] The first groove section glazing element and the second groove section glazing element are arranged so that the end of flange 52b faces flange 54c and the end of flange 54a faces web 52c. The first flange 54a is located between flanges 52a, 52b. The outer surface of flange 54a is spaced from the inner surface of flange 52a by a sufficient amount so that the flange of another glazing can be located therebetween (as shown in FIG. Figure 8 described).

[0222] Because the first and second groove-section glazing elements are of the same size and because flange 52a is spaced from flange 54a, flange 52b is spaced from flange 54b. The space between the outer surface of flange 52b and the inner surface of flange 54b is sufficient to allow the flange of an adjacent glazing to be located therebetween.

[0223] The inner surfaces of the flanges 54a, 52b and portions of the inner surfaces of the webs 52c, 54c define a cavity in which the inner glazing element 56 is located.

[0224] The inner window glass element 56 is similar to the reference Figure 4 The interior window glass 26 described above. The interior window glass element has a central portion 56a, a first edge portion 56b, and a second edge portion 56c. The first edge portion 56b is integrally formed with the central portion 56a along a first side of the central portion. The second edge portion 56c is integrally formed with the central portion 56a along a second side of the central portion, and the second side of the central portion 56a is along a lateral edge of the central portion 56a opposite the first side of the central portion 56a. Therefore, the interior window glass element 56 has a unitary form and can be referred to as a unitary interior window glass element.

[0225] The central portion 56a and the first and second edge portions 56b, 56c are made of a fibrous insulating material such as fibrous mineral wool.

[0226] The central portion 56a of the inner glazing element 56 is located between the second flange 52b of the first channel-section glazing element 52 and the first flange 54a of the second channel-section glazing element 54 .

[0227] like Figure 7 As shown in FIG, a portion of the first edge portion 56b is compressed by being clamped between the end of the flange 52b facing the web 54c and a portion of the web 54c. In addition, a portion of the second edge portion 56c is compressed by being clamped between the end of the flange 54a facing the web 52c and a portion of the web 52c. The compressed portion thickness of the first edge portion and the second edge portion is about 5 mm, but may be between 1 mm and 10 mm.

[0228] As in Figure 7 It can be seen that a portion of the first edge portion 56b extends into the space between flange 52b and flange 54b. Similarly, a portion of the second edge portion 56c extends into the space between flange 52a and flange 54a. In the arrangement shown, the portions of the first edge portion 56b and the second edge portion 56c that extend into the space between flanges 52b, 54 and 52a, 54a, respectively, are not compressed, but compression of these portions of the first and second edge portions will occur when the flange of the third groove section glazing element is positioned in the space between flanges 52b, 54b and the fourth groove section glazing element is positioned in the space between flanges 52a, 54a. This is shown in FIG. Figure 8 Detailed illustration in .

[0229] The surfaces of the webs 52c, 54c facing away from the central portion 56a of the inner glazing element 56 may have a low-emissivity coating or a solar control coating.

[0230] The low-E coating may include tin oxide.

[0231] The central portion 56a of the inner glazing element 56 has a first major surface facing the web 54c and a second major surface facing the web 52c. There may be air space between the first major surface of the central portion 56a of the inner glazing element 56 and the web 54c, and / or there may be air space between the second major surface facing layer of the central portion 56a of the inner glazing element and the web 52c.

[0232] Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of a portion of a facade 49 is shown including a plurality of window panes 51. Each window pane 51 is positioned adjacent to another window pane 51. To aid in describing Figure 8 , three window glasses 51, 51* and 51** are highlighted. Each window glass 51, 51* and 51* is Figure 7, and therefore each component of the glazing 51* and 51** will be referenced in the same manner as the glazing 51, except that "*" or "**" is added after each component, respectively. For example, the glazing 51 has a first groove section glazing element 52, which has a first flange 52a. Therefore, the glazing 51* has a first groove section glazing element 52*, which has a first flange 52a*, and so on. Similarly, the glazing 51** has a first groove section glazing element 52**, which has a first flange 52a**, and so on.

[0233] When the window glass is installed to make the facade 49, the second flange 54b* of the window glass 51* is fitted into the space between the first flange 52a and the first flange 54a of the window glass 51 so that the flange 52a faces the web 54c* of the second groove section window glass element 54* of the window glass 51*. Thus, the flange 54b* of the second groove section window glass element 54* of the window glass 51* faces the web 52c of the first groove section window glass element 52 of the window glass 51.

[0234] like Figure 8 As shown in , the second flange 54b** of the window glass 51** fits into the space between the first flange 52a* and the first flange 54a* of the window glass 51** so that the end of the flange 52a* faces the web 54c** of the second groove section window glass element 54** of the window glass 51**. Therefore, the end of the flange 54b** of the second groove section window glass element 54** of the window glass 51** faces the web 52c* of the first groove section window glass element 52* of the window glass 51*.

[0235] The window panes 51 forming the facade 49 may be oriented vertically or horizontally.

[0236] For each glazing 51 in the facade there may be a suitable sealant material between adjacent longitudinal edges.

[0237] like Figure 8 As shown, the web 52c of each first groove section glazing element 52 of each respective glazing 51 forms the outer surface of the facade, i.e. the surface facing the exterior of the building to which the facade is installed. The interior facing surface is formed by the web 54c of the second groove section glazing element 54 of each respective glazing 51.

[0238] Since each window glass 51 includes an inner window glass element 56 (as shown in reference Figure 7 The facade has improved thermal performance as described above. The thermal performance may be further improved by including a low emissivity coating on the web of the first groove-section glazing element and / or the second groove-section glazing element.

[0239] Each interior glazing element 56 , 56 * and / or 56 ** may be the same or different.

[0240] As reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the second flange 54b* of the window glass 51* fits into the space between the first flange 52a of the window glass 51 and the first flange 54a, so that the end of the flange 52a faces the web 54c* of the second groove-section window glass element 54* of the window glass 51*. Therefore, the end of the flange 54b* of the second groove-section window glass element 54* of the window glass 51* faces the web 52c of the first groove-section window glass element 52 of the window glass 51. As described above, the end of the flange 54a also faces the web 52c of the first groove-section window glass element 52 of the window glass 51.

[0241] The ends of the flanges 54a, 54b* are separated from the web 52c by a first space. The second edge portion 52c of the edge in a compressed state is located in the first space. Therefore, the second edge portion 56c is clamped between the ends of the flanges 54a, 54b* facing the web 52c and a portion of the web 52c.

[0242] The other edge portions of the inner glazing elements 56, 56* and 56** are clamped in a similar manner.

[0243] Figures 9 to 12 Shown with Figure 4 and Figure 7 A schematic cross-sectional view of a corner portion of a window pane similar to the window pane shown in FIG. Figures 9 to 12 , the glazing comprises a first groove section glazing element having a web 62c and a second groove section glazing element having a first flange 64a. Figure 4 and Figure 7 , the first flange 64a corresponds to the first flanges 24a, 54a, and the web 62c corresponds to the web 22c, 52c.

[0244] The glazing also includes an inner glazing element having a central portion 66a and an edge portion 66c. Figure 4 and Figure 7 , the inner glazing element corresponds to the inner glazing element 26 , 56 .

[0245] The flange 64a has an end 64c facing the web 62c. In this example, the end 64c is a flat surface, but the end may include at least one flat surface and / or at least one curved surface. The end 64c may include both a curved portion and a flat portion.

[0246] Fig. 9The arrangement of the first and second channel section elements is shown wherein the inner glazing element has been positioned on the web 62c before the first flange 64a has been positioned in the final installation position.

[0247] By moving first flange 64a towards web 62c in the direction of arrow 67 (ie by moving the first and / or second groove-section glazing elements towards each other), end 64c will contact upper surface 65 of edge portion 66c.

[0248] This is Fig.10 62c, where the first flange 64a has moved further in the direction of arrow 67 towards the web 62c. A portion 66c' of the edge portion 66c is compressed between the end 64c of the first flange 64a and the web 62c. Another portion 66c" of the edge portion 66c remains substantially uncompressed because the end 64c of the first flange 64a does not contact the upper surface 65 of the edge portion 66c in this area.

[0249] Continued movement of the first flange 64a toward the web 62c continues to compress the portion 66c' until the final installed arrangement of the first groove-section glazing element and the second groove-section glazing element is reached. Fig.11 . A portion 66c' of the edge portion 66c has been compressed between the end 64c of the first flange 64a and the web 62c, so that the edge portion 66c is substantially clamped between the end 64c of the first flange 64a and a portion of the web 62c. Before being compressed, the edge portion 66c has a thickness of about 20 mm, and Fig.11 In the configuration shown, the compressed portion 66c' has a thickness of about 5 mm. Fig.11 It can be clearly seen that there is a first space between the end 64c of the first flange 64a and the web 62c. The compressed portion 66c' of the edge portion 66c is in the first space.

[0250] Portion 66c" remains substantially uncompressed, although there may be some slight deformation in the interface area between portions 66c' and 66c" and in the interface area between portion 66c' and central portion 66a.

[0251] like Figure 8 As shown in , portion 66c" may be compressed by providing another groove section glazing element. The flange of the other groove section glazing element may be used to compress the portion 66c" in the same manner as the first flange 64a produced the compressed portion 66c'.

[0252] Fig.1266c'.

[0253] exist Fig.12 In the example shown in FIG. 6A , the compressed portion has returned slightly to its shape before being compressed, but has a slightly different shape therefrom. The portion 66c′″ is concave so that the upper surface 65 is no longer flat (eg, Fig. 9 ).

[0254] Fig.13 A cross-sectional view of another window pane 131 according to the present invention is shown. Figure 2 , which is a view in the z-axis direction. The window glass 131 is similar to Figure 5 Window glass51.

[0255] The glazing 131 has a first groove section glazing element 132 having a first flange 132a, a second flange 132b and a web 132c. The flanges 132a, 132b are continuous with the web 132c and the first groove section glazing element has been bent from an initially flat sheet or ribbon of glass, for example as described in DE 1496047 A1.

[0256] The glazing 131 also has a second groove section glazing element 134 having a first flange 134a, a second flange 134b and a web 134c. The first groove section glazing element 132 has the same dimensions as the second groove section glazing element 134. This is advantageous because the first groove section glazing element and the second groove section glazing element can be made during the same production run.

[0257] The first groove-section glazing element 132 and the second groove-section glazing element 134 are each as described with respect to Figure 2 The type being described.

[0258] The first groove section glazing element 132 and the second groove section glazing element 134 are arranged so that the end of the first flange 134a faces the web 132c and the first flange 134a is received in the space between the flanges 132a, 132b. The flanges 132a, 134a are sufficiently spaced apart so that the flange of another glazing can be located therebetween. The end of the second flange 132b faces the web 134c.

[0259] Because first and second groove-section glazing elements 132, 134 are of the same size and because flange 132a is spaced from flange 134a, flange 132b is spaced from flange 134b sufficiently that the flange of an adjacent glazing may be located therebetween.

[0260] The inner surfaces of the flanges 134a, 132b and portions of the inner surfaces of the webs 132c, 134c define a cavity in which the inner glazing element 133 is located.

[0261] The inner window glass element 133 has a central portion 133a made of a fiber material such as mineral fiber wool or a fiber bundle that is translucent to visible light. Along a first lateral edge of the central portion 133a, a first edge portion 133b is bonded thereto. Along a second lateral edge of the central portion 133a, a second edge portion 133c is bonded thereto. The first lateral edge or side of the central portion 133a is opposite to the second lateral edge or side of the central portion. The first edge portion and the second edge portion are each made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or an elastomer.

[0262] The first edge portion 133b includes a hollow section compressed between the end of the flange 132b facing the web 134c and the web 134c. The second edge portion 133c also includes a hollow section compressed between the end of the flange 134a facing the web 132c and the web 132c.

[0263] exist Fig.14 As shown in Fig.13 The interior glazing element 133 is shown prior to assembly with the first groove-section glazing element 132 and the second groove-section glazing element 134 .

[0264] refer to Fig.14 , the first edge portion 133b includes a PVC flat sheet 135 bonded to a first lateral edge of the central portion 133a. The PVC flat sheet may be provided with an adhesive or mechanical fastener on a first side to bond the flat sheet 135 to the first lateral edge of the central portion 133a. The PVC flat sheet 135 has a tubular member 136 also made of PVC on a side opposite to the bonding side. The flat sheet 135 and the tubular member 136 are preferably co-extruded, but the tubular member 136 is suitably bonded to the flat sheet 135 by using other suitable bonding means, such as adhesive, or plastic welding or heat fusion.

[0265] exist Fig.14In the configuration shown in FIG. 1 , the tubular member 136 has a circular cross-section, a wall thickness of about 1-2 mm, and an outer diameter of about 10-20 mm. The inner cavity of the tubular member 136 has a circular cross-section. When the tubular member 136 is compressed (e.g., Fig.13 As shown in ), the cross section changes shape (the shape of the inner cavity also changes), for example, becomes oval. The outer diameter of the tubular member 136 is selected to achieve the desired seal between the end of the flange 132b facing the web 134c and the web 134c.

[0266] The second edge portion 133c is configured in the same manner as the first edge portion 133b. The second edge portion 133c has on one side thereof a flat sheet of PVC 137 bonded to the second lateral edge of the central portion 133a, and on the opposite side thereof a tubular member 138 also made of PVC.

[0267] like Fig.14 As shown in FIG. 1 , the PVC flat sheet 135 of the first edge portion 133 b is bonded to the central portion 133 a at an upper right corner region thereof; and the flat sheet 137 is bonded to the central portion 133 a at a lower left corner region thereof.

[0268] The window glass 131 may include Figure 8 In the type of facade shown in .

[0269] Fig.15 A schematic isometric representation of the inner glazing element 133 is shown to illustrate the position of the tubular members 136, 138 relative to the central portion 133a.

[0270] By having a compressible first edge portion 133b and second edge portion 133c, it is no longer necessary to have separate gaskets on the ends of flanges 132b, 134a. This simplifies assembly and reduces costs because one less component is required.

[0271] In an alternative embodiment, the tubular member 136 (or 138) can be made of a different material than the flat sheet 135 (or 137). The flat sheet 135 can be made of a material that has an excellent bond with the central portion 133a, while the tubular member can be made of a material that provides good sealing and compressibility. For example, the tubular member can be made of EPDM, and the flat sheet can be made of polyester such as PET.

[0272] In another alternative embodiment, the first edge portion 133b may be configured differently from the second edge portion 133c. The first edge portion 133b may be configured as Figure 6 The edge portion 26b' or Figures 9 to 12 The edge portion 66c is shown in FIG.

[0273] In another alternative embodiment, the central portion may be configured with at least one plastic sheet, such as polycarbonate. This may be in addition to or in place of the fiber insulation material. For example, the central portion may include at least one polycarbonate sheet having a multi-walled construction. Such a central portion may be colored to provide a suitable color, or its surface may be provided with a coating, such as a paint or solar control layer.

[0274] In another alternative embodiment, the inner glazing element is made of plastic and the first and second edge portions are integrally formed with the central portion. The central portion may be multi-walled and the material of the first and second edge portions may have a different composition than the material of the central portion.

[0275] The present invention provides a glazing comprising two groove section glazing elements including an inner glazing element to improve the thermal performance of the glazing. By having the inner glazing element wherein at least one edge portion of the inner glazing element is compressed between the web facing end of the flange and the web of the groove section glazing element, the inner glazing element can form a seal. In some embodiments, the seal can also absorb any vibrations that the glazing may experience, for example due to wind loads or impacts to one of the major surfaces of the glazing.

[0276] Thus, a glazing is described that includes a first groove-section glazing element and a second groove-section glazing element, the first groove-section glazing element and the second groove-section glazing element being arranged to define a cavity, with an interior glazing element being located in the cavity. An end of a first flange of the first groove-section glazing element is spaced a first space from a web of the second groove-section glazing element. The interior glazing element includes a central portion, a first edge portion extending along a first side of the central portion, and a second edge portion extending along a second, opposite side of the central portion. A first portion of the first edge portion is positioned in the first space and is compressed by an end of the first flange of the first groove-section glazing element positioned relative to the web of the second groove-section glazing element to form the first space.

Claims

1. A window glass, comprising a first groove-section window glass element and a second groove-section window glass element, wherein the first groove-section window glass element and the second groove-section window glass element each comprise a web and a first flange, wherein the first flange extends along a first lateral edge of the corresponding web, the first groove-section window glass element and the second groove-section window glass element are arranged so that an end of the first flange of the first groove-section window glass element faces the web of the second groove-section window glass element, the end of the first flange of the first groove-section window glass element is positioned at a distance relative to the web of the second groove-section window glass element, such that the end of the first flange of the first groove-section window glass element is spaced apart from the web of the second groove-section window glass element by a first space, wherein at least a portion of an interior glazing element is located between a web of said first groove-section glazing element and a web of said second groove-section glazing element, said interior glazing element comprising: Central part, a first edge portion extending along a first side of the central portion, and a second edge portion extending along a second side of the central portion, The first side of the central portion is opposite to the second side of the central portion; wherein a first portion of a first edge portion of said interior glazing element is positioned in said first space between said end of a first flange of said first groove-section glazing element and a web of said second groove-section glazing element; Further wherein a first portion of a first edge portion of said inner glazing element is compressed by positioning said end of a first flange of said first groove-section glazing element relative to a web of said second groove-section glazing element to form said first space.

2. The window glass according to claim 1, wherein A first portion of the edge portion of the inner glazing element is reversibly compressed.

3. The window glass according to claim 2, wherein: When the distance of the first flange of the first groove-section window glass element relative to the web of the second groove-section window glass element is increased so that the end of the first flange of the first groove-section window glass element is separated from the web of the second groove-section window glass element by a second space, the first portion of the first edge portion of the inner window glass element expands to fill the second space.

4. The window glass according to claim 1, wherein: A first portion of the edge portion of the inner glazing element is irreversibly compressed.

5. The window glass according to claim 4, wherein when the distance of the first flange of the first groove-section window glass element relative to the web of the second groove-section window glass element is increased so that the end of the first flange of the first groove-section window glass element is separated from the web of the second groove-section window glass element by a second space, the first portion of the first edge portion of the inner window glass element changes shape but does not expand to fill the second space, or the first portion of the first edge portion of the inner window glass element does not change shape.

6. A glazing according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a central portion of the inner glazing element is made from a first material having a first chemical composition and a first edge portion of the inner glazing element is made from a second material having a second chemical composition, further wherein the first chemical composition is the same as the second chemical composition or wherein the first chemical composition is different from the second chemical composition.

7. The window glass according to claim 6, wherein: A first edge portion of the inner glazing element is joined to a central portion of the inner glazing element.

8. A window glass according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein: The first edge portion of the inner glazing element is integrally formed with the central portion of the inner glazing element.

9. A glazing as claimed in claim 7 or claim 8 when dependent on claim 7, wherein The first edge portion of the interior window glass element is joined to the central portion of the interior window glass element by being fused with or to the central portion of the interior window glass element, preferably wherein the first edge portion of the interior window glass element is heat fused with or to the central portion of the interior window glass element.

10. A glazing according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein: The interior glazing element is an extruded interior glazing element.

11. The window glass according to claim 7, wherein: The first edge portion of the inner glazing element is bonded to the central portion of the inner glazing element by an adhesive, preferably a permanent adhesive or a re-adhesive adhesive; or by a mechanical fastener, preferably a hook and loop fastener.

12. A glazing according to any preceding claim, wherein: The first edge portion of the interior glazing element comprises at least a first cavity, and wherein the shape of the first cavity changes when a first portion of the first edge portion of the interior glazing element is compressed.

13. A glazing according to any preceding claim, wherein: The first edge portion of the inner glazing element comprises a plastic material, preferably polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene polycarbonate or acrylic; or wherein the first edge portion of the inner glazing element comprises an elastomer, preferably silicone rubber, EPDM or neoprene; or wherein the first portion of the first edge portion of the inner glazing element comprises a resilient portion.

14. A glazing according to any preceding claim, wherein: The first edge portion of the inner glazing element comprises a fibrous insulation material, preferably wherein the first edge portion of the inner glazing element and / or the fibrous insulation material comprises glass fibres and / or synthetic fibres.

15. A glazing according to any preceding claim, wherein: The central portion of the inner glazing element comprises a plastics material, preferably polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene polycarbonate or acrylic; or wherein the central portion of the inner glazing element comprises an elastomer, preferably silicone rubber, EPDM or neoprene.

16. A glazing according to any preceding claim, wherein: The central portion of the interior window glass element has a multi-wall structure, which includes a first wall facing the web of the first groove-section window glass element and a second wall facing the web of the second groove-section window glass element. There are multiple air spaces between the first wall and the second wall of the central portion of the interior window glass element.

17. A glazing according to any preceding claim, wherein: The central portion of the inner glazing element comprises a fibrous insulation material, preferably wherein the central portion of the inner glazing element and / or the fibrous insulation material comprises glass fibres and / or synthetic fibres.

18. A glazing according to any preceding claim, wherein: The end of the first flange of the first groove-section glazing element is at a distance greater than 1 mm and / or less than 50 mm, preferably greater than 1 mm and / or less than 30 mm from the web of the second groove-section glazing element.

19. Glass according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The end of the first flange of the second groove section window glass element faces the web of the first groove section window glass element, so that the end of the first flange of the second groove section window glass element is positioned at a certain distance relative to the web of the second groove section window glass element, so that the end of the first flange of the second groove section window glass element is separated from the web of the first groove section window glass element by a second space.

20. The glazing according to claim 19, wherein: The first portion of the second edge portion of the interior window glass element is positioned in the second space between the end of the first flange of the second groove section window glass element and the web of the first groove section window glass element, preferably wherein the first portion of the second edge portion of the interior window glass element is compressed by positioning the end of the first flange of the second groove section window glass element relative to the web of the first groove section window glass element to form the second space.

21. A glazing according to any preceding claim, wherein: The web of the first groove-section window glass element has a second flange extending along its second lateral edge, the second lateral edge of the web of the first groove-section window glass element being opposite to the first lateral edge of the web of the first groove-section window glass element, preferably wherein the first groove-section window glass element has a U-shaped profile; and / or wherein the web of the second groove-section window glass element has a second flange extending along its second lateral edge, the second lateral edge of the web of the second groove-section window glass element being opposite to the first lateral edge of the web of the second groove-section window glass element, preferably wherein the second groove-section window glass element has a U-shaped profile.

22. An interior glazing element for a glazing according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: Central part, a first edge portion extending along a first side of the central portion; as well as a second edge portion extending along a second side of the central portion, the first side of the central portion being opposite the second side of the central portion, the central portion of the interior glazing element having a first major surface, a second major surface and a thickness, the thickness of the central portion of the interior glazing element being the distance between the first major surface and the second major surface of the central portion of the interior glazing element; a first edge portion of the interior glazing element having a thickness in a direction parallel to a thickness of a central portion of the interior glazing element, wherein the thickness of the first edge portion of the interior glazing element is less than the thickness of the central portion of the interior glazing element; Further wherein the first edge portion of the inner glazing element is bonded to and / or integrally formed with a central portion of the inner glazing element; and wherein the first edge portion of the inner glazing element comprises at least a first compressible portion.

23. An interior glazing element according to claim 22, wherein The second edge portion of the interior window glass element has a thickness in a direction parallel to the thickness of the central portion, wherein the thickness of the second edge portion of the interior window glass element is less than the thickness of the central portion of the interior window glass element; further wherein the second edge portion of the interior window glass element is bonded to the central portion of the interior window glass element and / or is integrally formed with the central portion of the interior window glass element; and wherein the second edge portion of the interior window glass element includes at least a first compressible portion.

24. An interior glazing element according to claim 22 or claim 23, wherein the central portion of the interior glazing element comprises polycarbonate, polyester or acrylic; or a fiber bundle or fiber insulation material; and / or wherein the first edge portion and / or the second edge portion of the interior glazing element comprises polyvinyl chloride (PVC), ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), polyester, polycarbonate, polyolefin, elastomer or polyurethane.

25. An interior glazing element according to any one of claims 22 to 24, wherein a first edge portion and / or a second edge portion of the interior glazing element comprises at least a corresponding first cavity having a first shape, and wherein upon compression of the first edge portion and / or the second edge portion having the corresponding first cavity therein, the shape of the corresponding first cavity changes.

Images