Window for reducing bird impact

Abstract

A window includes a first transparent panel including an outwardly facing No.1 surface and an opposing No.2 surface, a second transparent panel including an inwardly facing No.4 surface and an opposing No.3 surface, where the first transparent panel and the second transparent panel are spaced apart from each other by a gap, wherein the first surface includes a pattern having a plurality of indicia spaced apart at the first surface, and wherein each of the plurality of indicia includes an abraded portion leaving a visible indicia at the first surface.

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application 18 / 388,332, filed on November 9, 2023, and U.S. Patent Application 18 / 505,435, filed on November 9, 2023, which claim the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application 63 / 424,603, filed on November 11, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application 63 / 522,826, filed on June 23, 2023. The disclosures of the above - mentioned applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a window, and in some non - limiting embodiments or aspects, relates to a window having a visible abrasion portion at a 1 - surface to reduce bird collisions. Background Art

[0004] To reduce energy loss and improve the comfort of buildings, windows with high thermal performance are needed. However, it is estimated that one billion birds die each year in the United States after colliding with windows. The reason for the collisions is that the window substrate reflects the sky and landscape behind the birds, making the birds mistake the flight path as clear. Therefore, windows that reduce bird collisions are needed. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to some non - limiting aspects of the present disclosure, a window includes: a first transparent panel including an outward - facing 1 - surface and an opposite 2 - surface, and a second transparent panel including an inward - facing 4 - surface and an opposite 3 - surface, wherein the first transparent panel and the second transparent panel are spaced apart from each other by a gap, wherein the 1 - surface includes a pattern that includes a plurality of spaced - apart markings at the 1 - surface, and wherein each of the plurality of markings includes an abrasion portion, thereby leaving a visible marking on the 1 - surface.

[0006] In some non - limiting aspects, the abrasion portion may be a laser - induced marking formed by applying a laser beam to the 1 - surface to remove at least a portion of the material of the 1 - surface or to generate micro - cracks beneath the 1 - surface. The abrasion portion may be formed by sandblasting the 1 - surface to remove at least a portion of the material of the 1 - surface. The abrasion portion may be formed by removing at least a portion of the material of the 1 - surface. The abrasion portion may be formed by generating micro - cracks beneath the 1 - surface. The 1 - surface may be an uncoated surface and / or a coated surface. The laser - induced marking may be formed by a carbon dioxide laser. The laser beam may have 0.5 J / cm 2 to 10 J / cm 2The energy density. Each of the plurality of markings can scatter incident electromagnetic radiation. The gap can be hermetically sealed by an edge connecting the first panel and the second panel. The gap can include a gas denser than air. The gap can be evacuated to create a vacuum.

[0007] In some non-limiting aspects, the window can further include a plurality of supports disposed in the gap to connect the first panel and the second panel. At least a portion of the plurality of markings can be formed between positions where the plurality of supports contact the first panel. At least a portion of the plurality of markings can be formed at positions where the plurality of supports contact the first panel. The first panel can be a component of a building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) component. The window can be disposed in a frame of a building structure, with the out-facing surface No. 1 arranged as the outer surface of the building structure. The gap can be hermetically sealed by an edge connecting the first panel and the second panel, wherein the plurality of markings can be formed by applying a laser beam to surface No. 1 after hermetically sealing the gap. The plurality of markings can be formed by chemical etching without any assistance from a photon-enhanced reaction. The plurality of markings can be formed without being assisted by a chemical etching that is not enhanced by any photon-enhanced reaction. The plurality of markings can exhibit a glossiness value of less than 1 at 20°. The pattern can be spaced over the entire area of surface No. 1 such that there is no four-square-inch area on surface No. 1 without a marking among the plurality of markings. The first panel can include glass and / or plastic.

[0008] According to some non-limiting aspects of the present disclosure, a building structure includes the window described herein.

[0009] In some non-limiting aspects, the building structure can include a building having an opening, wherein the window is installed in the opening, with the out-facing surface No. 1 arranged as the outer surface of the building.

[0010] According to some non-limiting aspects of the present disclosure, a method of manufacturing a window includes: providing an insulated transparent unit including a first transparent panel and a second transparent panel, the first transparent panel including an out-facing surface No. 1 and an opposite surface No. 2, the second transparent panel including an in-facing surface No. 4 and an opposite surface No. 3, wherein the first transparent panel and the second transparent panel are spaced apart from each other by a gap; and forming a pattern at surface No. 1, wherein the pattern includes a plurality of markings spaced apart at surface No. 1, and wherein each of the plurality of markings includes an abraded portion to leave a visible marking at surface No. 1.

[0011] In some non - limiting aspects, patterning can include using a laser beam to remove at least a portion of the material of the first surface or creating micro - cracks beneath the first surface. The method can also include sealing a gap closed by forming an edge connecting a first panel and a second panel, wherein after sealing the gap closed, a plurality of markings are formed at the first surface. The gap can be filled with a gas denser than air. The gap can include a vacuum.

[0012] According to some non - limiting aspects of the present disclosure, a method of preventing birds from colliding with a building substrate includes installing a window as described herein in an opening of a building substrate, with the outward - facing first surface arranged as the outer surface of the building substrate. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The present disclosure will be described with reference to the following drawings, in which like reference numerals always identify like parts.

[0014] Figure 1A A top view of a first panel of a window having a first pattern according to some aspects of the present disclosure is shown;

[0015] Figure 1B A top view of a first panel of a window having a second pattern according to some aspects of the present disclosure is shown;

[0016] Figure 1C A top view of a first panel of a window having a third pattern according to some aspects of the present disclosure is shown;

[0017] Figure 2A A cross - sectional view of a vacuum - filled double - pane window having markings in the form of removed abrasions at the first surface according to some aspects of the present disclosure is shown;

[0018] Figure 2B A cross - sectional view of a vacuum - filled double - pane window having markings in the form of subsurface abrasions at the first surface according to some aspects of the present disclosure is shown;

[0019] Figure 2C A cross - sectional view of an air - filled double - pane window having markings in the form of removed abrasions at the first surface according to some aspects of the present disclosure is shown;

[0020] Figure 2D A cross - sectional view of an air - filled double - pane window having markings in the form of subsurface abrasions at the first surface according to some aspects of the present disclosure is shown;

[0021] Figure 3 A schematic view of a building structure including a window according to some aspects of the present disclosure is shown;

[0022] Figure 4 A perspective view of a vacuum - insulated glass (VIG) window unit according to some aspects of the present disclosure is shown;

[0023] Figure 5 Shows a cross-sectional view of a vacuum-insulated glass (VIG) window unit according to some aspects of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 6 Shows a schematic diagram of a laser initiating a mark in the form of removing an abraded portion at the No. 1 surface according to some aspects of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 7 Shows a schematic diagram of a mark in the form of removing an abraded portion at the No. 1 surface that emits scattered radiation according to some aspects of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 8A Shows a cross-sectional view of a single-pane window having a mark in the form of removing an abraded portion at the No. 1 surface according to some aspects of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 8B Shows a cross-sectional view of a single-pane window having a mark in the form of a subsurface abraded portion at the No. 1 surface according to certain aspects of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 9 Shows a cross-sectional view of a side-lit vacuum-filled double-pane window having a mark in the form of removing an abraded portion at the No. 1 surface according to some aspects of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 10 Shows a photograph of a VIG unit according to some aspects of the present disclosure, the VIG unit having a first panel with a pattern at the No. 1 surface;

[0030] Figure 11 Shows a photograph of a VIG unit according to some aspects of the present disclosure, the VIG unit having a first panel with a pattern at the No. 1 surface; and

[0031] Figure 12 Shows a photograph of a unit having a coated No. 1 surface, where the No. 1 surface is patterned by removing part of the coating using a diode laser (λ = 390 nm). Detailed Description

[0032] As used herein, spatial or directional terms such as "left", "right", "inner", "outer", "above", "below", etc. relate to the disclosure as shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure may assume various alternative orientations, and thus, these terms should not be considered restrictive. Additionally, as used herein, all numbers representing dimensions, physical properties, processing parameters, amounts of ingredients, reaction conditions, etc. used in the specification and claims should be understood to be modified in all instances by the term "about". Accordingly, unless stated to the contrary, the numerical values set forth in the following specification and claims may vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by the present disclosure. At the very least, and without attempting to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical value should be construed at least in accordance with the number of significant digits reported and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Further, all ranges disclosed herein should be understood to include the starting and ending range values, as well as any and all sub-ranges subsumed therein. For example, the recited range "1 to 10" should be considered to include any and all sub-ranges between the minimum value 1 and the maximum value 10 (and including the end values); that is, all sub-ranges starting with a minimum value of 1 or greater and ending with a maximum value of 10 or less, such as 1 to 3.3, 4.7 to 7.5, 5.5 to 10, etc. "A" or "an" means one or more.

[0033] In addition, all documents cited herein, such as but not limited to issued patents and patent applications, shall be considered to be "incorporated by reference" in their entirety.

[0034] The present disclosure relates to a window comprising: a first panel including an outward-facing surface 1 and an opposite surface 2, a second panel including an inward-facing surface 4 and an opposite surface 3, wherein the first panel and the second panel are spaced apart from each other by a gap, wherein the surface 1 includes a pattern, the pattern including a plurality of markers spaced apart at the surface 1, wherein each of the plurality of markers includes an abraded portion, thereby leaving a visible mark at the surface 1.

[0035] Referring to Figure 1A-1G shows a window 100 having a first panel 102 with a pattern according to some non - limiting embodiments or aspects. The pattern includes a plurality of visible markings 106 at a first major surface (Surface 1 104). The pattern can include any arrangement of the plurality of visible markings 106. The pattern distribution can be periodic, quasi - periodic, or random. The markings 106 can be of any shape (e.g., circular, triangular, parallelogram) or any other conceivable design of the markings 106. The pattern can include a plurality of markings 106 spaced apart above Surface 1 104. The pattern can be spaced apart over the entire area of Surface 1 104 such that there is no four - square - inch area of Surface 1 104 without a marking 106. The pattern spaced apart over the entire area of Surface 1 104 can help the window 100 reduce bird collisions because the markings 106 are visible to birds. Ensuring that there is no four - square - inch area of Surface 1 104 without a marking 106 can cause any - sized bird flying towards the window 100 to perceive the window 100 and not mistake the gaps between the markings for areas where a bird can fly through. In certain embodiments where the birds involved are larger, the pattern can be such that the spacing is six, eight, or 10 square - inch area or greater.

[0036] Continuing to refer Figure 1A -1G, the markings 106 are visible to birds. The markings 106 are visible to both birds and humans such that they are visible by reflection in the visible region (approximately 380 - 750 nm) of the electromagnetic spectrum. The markings 106 can exhibit a low gloss value at 20°, e.g., the markings 106 have a 20° gloss value of less than 1 gloss unit, less than 0.5 gloss unit, or less than 0.25 gloss unit. The 20° gloss value can be measured using a gloss meter.

[0037] Surface 1 104 can be an uncoated surface. Alternatively, Surface 1 104 can be coated, e.g., coated with a solar - control coating, a protective coating, or any other type of coating.

[0038] A plurality of visible markings 106 are arranged at Surface 1 104. Each marking 106 can include an abraded portion at Surface 1 104. The phrase “at the surface 1” means an abraded portion on or under (beneath) Surface 1 104, as will be described and shown in connection with Figure 2A and 2B An “abraded portion” means a modification of the first panel 102 at the location of the marking 106.

[0039] Referring Figure 2A and 2B , according to some non - limiting embodiments or aspects, a double - pane window 100 is shown having markings 106 at Surface 1 104. AlthoughFigure 2A and 2B shows a double-pane window 100, but it will be understood that window 100 may have additional panes, such as three panes or four panes. Alternatively, window 100 may have only a single pane. In Figure 2A and 2B non-limiting embodiments of, window 100 includes a first panel 102 that includes an outward-facing surface 104 (Surface 1) and an opposite second major surface (Surface 2, 108). The window may also include a second panel 110 that includes an inward-facing fourth major surface (Surface 4, 114) and an opposite third major surface (Surface 3, 112). The first panel 102 and the second panel 110 may be spaced apart from each other by a gap 116 (e.g., a gap between surface 108 and surface 112).

[0040] Figure 2A and 2B A non-limiting example of window 100 in is the form of an insulating glass unit that includes a first panel 102 having a surface 104 and an opposite surface 108 installed in a building. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, surface 104 faces the exterior of the building, i.e., is the exterior major surface, and surface 108 faces the interior of the building. Window 100 also includes a second panel 110 having an outer (first) surface 112 and an inner (second) surface 114. This numbering of the panel surfaces is consistent with conventional practice in fenestration technology.

[0041] The first and second panels 102, 110 may be joined together in any suitable manner, such as by adhesively bonding to a conventional spacer frame 118. A gap 116 is formed between the two panels 102, 110. The gap may be evacuated to create a vacuum (vacuum insulating glass unit). Examples of insulating glass units can be found in, for example, U.S. Patents 4,193,236; 4,464,874; 5,088,258; 5,106,663.

[0042] The first and second panels 102, 110 may include glass or plastic.

[0043] The first and second panels 102, 110 may include glass. Non-limiting examples of suitable glass materials for the first and second panels 102, 110 include soda-lime silicate glass, borosilicate glass, or leaded glass. The glass may be clear glass. "Clear glass" refers to glass that is uncolored or colorless. Alternatively, the glass may be tinted or otherwise colored glass. The glass may be annealed or heat-treated glass. As used herein, the term "heat-treated" refers to tempered or at least partially tempered. The glass may be of any type, such as float glass, and may have any composition with any optical properties, such as any value of visible light transmittance, ultraviolet light transmittance, infrared light transmittance, and / or total solar transmittance. "Float glass" refers to glass formed by the float process in which molten glass is deposited onto a molten metal bath and controllably cooled to form a float glass ribbon.

[0044] The first and second panels 102, 110 may include plastic. Non-limiting examples of suitable plastic materials for the first and second panels 102, 110 include acrylic polymers, such as polyacrylates; polymethacrylic acid alkyl esters, such as polymethyl methacrylate, polyethyl methacrylate, propyl methacrylate, etc.; polyurethanes; polycarbonates; polyalkylene terephthalates, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polytrimethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, etc.; polysiloxane-containing polymers; or copolymers of any monomers used to prepare these, or any mixtures thereof.

[0045] The first and second panels 102, 110 may have any desired dimensions, such as length, width, shape, or thickness. In a non-limiting embodiment where the first and second panels 102, 110 are components in a building transparent member, each of the first and second panels 102, 110 may be 1-30 mm thick, such as 2.5-25 mm thick or 2.5-10 mm thick. In a non-limiting embodiment where the first and second panels 102, 110 are components in an automotive transparent member, each of the first and second panels 102, 110 may be 1-10 mm thick, such as 1-8 mm thick, 2-8 mm thick, 3-7 mm thick, 5-7 mm thick, or 4-6 mm thick.

[0046] Referring Figure 2A , window 100 includes a plurality of markings 106 at the first surface 104. The markings 106 may be on the first surface 104 as shown in Figure 2A , and such markings 106 may be removal abrasions 120 formed by removing at least a portion of the material from the original first surface 104 (a change to the first panel 102 at the location of the markings 106), thereby forming visible markings 106. Referring Figure 2A and 6, the removal abraded portion 120 can be laser-initiated by applying a laser 134 to the first surface 104 to remove at least a portion of the material of the first surface 104. The laser 134 can be any laser 134 that emits a beam 136 with an energy density sufficient to create the removal abraded portion 120. For example, the removal abraded portion 120 can be formed by a carbon dioxide laser, a yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG) laser, a frequency-doubled YAG laser, a fiber laser, a diode laser, an excimer laser, etc. For example, the laser 134 (e.g., its beam 136) can have an energy density of 0.5 J / cm 2 to 10 J / cm 2 at the location of the resulting mark 106 (removal abraded portion 120). The energy density will depend on the particular laser used, but is preferably in the range of 0.75 J / cm 2 to 5 J / cm 2 . For example, the beam 136 of the laser 134 can have a contact beam waist 138 of less than 1 mm at the location of the resulting mark 106 (removal abraded portion 120). If the laser output results in an energy density higher than the threshold required for material removal or damage, a larger beam waist can be used.

[0047] Referring again to Figure 2A , the removal abraded portion 120 can be formed by sandblasting the first surface 104 to remove at least a portion of the material of the first surface 104, thereby forming a visible mark 106. Other methods of mechanically abrading the surface (e.g., a diamond grit-coated pad pressed against the surface at a high rotational speed) can also be used.

[0048] Referring to Figure 2B , the window 100 includes a plurality of marks 106 at the first surface 104. As shown, the marks 106 can be below the first surface 104 (in the first panel 102, between the first surface 104 and the second surface 108), and such marks 106 can be produced as subsurface abraded portions 122, such as microcracks (e.g., changes to the first panel 102 at the location of the marks 106). The subsurface abraded portion 122 can be laser-initiated by applying a laser beam to the first surface 104 to create a subsurface abraded portion 122 on the first surface 104. The laser beam can have the same characteristics as the laser beam used to form the Figure 2A and 6 removal abraded portion 120, and the laser type, energy density, and beam waist are selected to create subsurface microcracks in, for example, the first surface 104 without damaging other parts of the first panel 102.

[0049] Referring to Figure 2A 、 2BAnd 6, the markings 106 at the first surface 104 can be formed by chemical etching without the aid of any photon-enhanced reactions. Forming the markings 106 as described herein without using chemical etching can avoid damage to the window 100, and can particularly avoid damage to the edge 128, as described below in Figures 4 - 5 as described.

[0050] Referring again to Figures 2A - 2B and, additionally referring to Figures 4 - 5 , a plurality of supports 119 can be arranged in the gap 116 to connect the first panel 102 and the second panel 110. The supports 119 can provide additional strength to the window 100. The supports 119 can provide additional strength to the window 100 having an inflated gap 116. Alternatively, the supports 119 can provide additional strength to the window 100 having a vacuum in the gap 116. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the supports 119 can be arranged in a pattern, having supports 119 spaced apart by about 20 - 70 mm 2 , such as 30 - 60 mm 2 or 50 mm 2 to provide sufficient support for the first panel 102 and the second panel 110.

[0051] Referring again to Figure 2A , at least a portion of the plurality of markings 106 can be formed at the location where the support 119 contacts the first panel 102 (e.g., its second surface 108). In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, each support 119 can be arranged to contact the first panel 102 at the location of the marking 106.

[0052] Referring again to Figure 2B , at least a portion of the plurality of markings 106 can be formed between the locations where the support 119 contacts the first panel 102 (e.g., its second surface 108). In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, each support 119 can be arranged to contact the first panel 102 at a location between the markings 106.

[0053] Referring to Figure 2C and 2D , where the window 100 shown is respectively the same as the windows shown in Figure 2A and 2B except for the following. The gap 116 can be filled with a selected atmosphere such as air, or a non-reactive gas such as argon or krypton. The gas filling the gap 116 can be denser than air. Since the gap 116 is filled with a selected atmosphere (rather than being vacuum-filled), the window 100 can omit the supports 119 included in the windows 100 in Figure 2A and 2B .

[0054] As a supplement or alternative to vacuum filling or gas filling, the gap 116 may contain a liquid, gel, solid, or a combination thereof. The gap may also contain a mechanical structure, such as a movable shutter.

[0055] Reference Figure 3 , a building structure 124 is shown, where the building structure 124 includes at least one window 100 described herein. The building structure 124 may include an opening 126, where the window 100 is installed in the opening 126, and the outward-facing surface 104 (not shown) of the window 100 is arranged as the outer surface of the building structure 124. The building structure 124 may be a building, such as a residential or commercial building. The window 100 can be used in a building as a window or skylight of the building. The window 100 including the first panel 102 (not shown) can be a component of a building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) component.

[0056] Referring Figures 4 - 5 , in some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the window 100 may include a vacuum insulating glass (VIG) unit. The VIG unit may include a first panel 102 spaced apart from a second panel 110 to form a gap 116. A support 119 may be arranged in the gap 116 to connect the first panel 102 and the second panel 110, thereby providing additional support for them. A visual marker 106 may be arranged at the surface 104. An edge 128 may be arranged around the perimeter of the window 100 to connect the edges of the first panel 102 and the second panel 110, thereby sealing the gap 116 closed. The edge 128 may be welded to seal the gap 116 closed. The edge 128 may prevent gas from entering or leaving the gap 116 through the perimeter between the first panel 102 and the second panel 110.

[0057] Continuing to refer Figures 4 - 5 , the VIG unit may include a pump-out tube 130 and a pump-out chamber 132 for evacuating the gap 116 after the edge 128 has been formed between the first panel 102 and the second panel 110 to seal the gap 116. The pump-out tube 130 may include a first end disposed in the gap 116 and / or the pump-out chamber 132, and a second end extending from the surface of the first panel 102 and / or the second panel 110. The pump-out chamber 132 may include at least a portion of the region of the gap 116 (where the first end of the pump-out tube 130 is disposed) and / or a portion of the region cut out from the second surface 108 and / or the third surface 112 of the first panel 102 and / or the second panel 110.

[0058] After an edge 128 has been formed between the first panel 102 and the second panel 110 to seal the gap 116, the pumping tube 130 and the pumping chamber 132 can be used to evacuate the gap 116. After an edge 128 has been formed between the first panel 102 and the second panel 110 to seal the gap 116, the gap 116 can contain residual gas (such as air) that is not required for the VIG unit. After the edge 128 is formed, the second end of the pumping tube 130 can be opened to evacuate the residual gas from the gap 116. The gas from the gap 116 can be forced from the gap 116 into the pumping chamber 132, enter through the first end of the pumping tube 130, and flow out through the second end of the pumping tube 130. This process can be used to create a vacuum in the gap 116, thereby forming a VIG unit.

[0059] Continuing to refer to Figures 4 - 5 , after sealing the closed gap 116 by forming an edge 128 connecting the first panel 102 and the second panel 110, a mark 106 (e.g., by applying a laser beam) can be formed at the surface 104 of the first panel 102 of the VIG unit. The mark 106 can be formed as described above and does not require chemical etching to avoid damage to the window 100, such as damage to the edge 128.

[0060] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the window 100 can be an insulating glass unit, where the gap 116 is filled with a gas having a lower thermal conductivity than air, such as argon. The gap 116 can be filled with a gas heavier than air. For example, after an edge 128 has been formed between the first panel 102 and the second panel 110, the gap 116 can be filled with a gas heavier than air to seal the gap 116 using the pumping tube 130. The gas heavier than air can flow into the second end of the pumping tube 130 and flow out from its first end into the gap 116. After sealing the closed gap 116 by forming an edge 128 connecting the first panel 102 and the second panel 110, a mark can be formed at the surface 104 of the first panel 102 of the window 100 having the gap 116, and the mark is filled with a gas heavier than air.

[0061] Refer to Figure 7 , the spaced-apart marks 106 (leaving visible marks at the surface 104) at the surface 104 scatter visible incident electromagnetic radiation. In Figure 7In the non-limiting embodiment shown, a mark 106 (abrasion portion 120 removed) is formed in the 1st surface 104 of the first panel 102. Incident radiation 140, such as from sunlight or another radiation source, can be incident on the mark 106 such that the incident radiation 140 collides with the mark 106. The incident radiation 140 can include visible electromagnetic radiation and can include ultraviolet and / or infrared radiation. When the incident radiation 140 collides with the mark 106, the mark 106 can reflect the radiation (i.e., scattered radiation 142) in at least one direction away from the 1st surface 104. The scattered radiation 142 can be scattered. "Scattering" means that the incident radiation 140 is reflected in a non-specular direction to form the scattered radiation 142. The specular direction is the direction of the reflection characteristic of a mirror.

[0062] The present disclosure also relates to a method of manufacturing a window for reducing bird collisions, such as any window described herein. The manufacturing method includes providing a window (such as an insulating glass unit described herein), the window including a first panel and a second panel, the first panel including an outward-facing 1st surface and an opposite 2nd surface, the second panel including an inward-facing 4th surface and an opposite 3rd surface, wherein the first panel and the second panel are spaced apart from each other by a gap. The method can further include forming a pattern at the 1st surface, wherein the pattern includes a plurality of marks spaced apart at the 1st surface (e.g., over the entire area of the 1st surface), wherein each of the plurality of marks includes an abrasion portion, thereby leaving a visible mark at the 1st surface.

[0063] Patterning at the 1st surface can include removing at least a portion of the material from the 1st surface or generating microcracks beneath the 1st surface using a laser beam as described herein.

[0064] The manufacturing method can further include sealing the gap closed by forming an edge connecting the first panel and the second panel, and after sealing the gap closed, a plurality of marks can be formed at the 1st surface. Forming a plurality of marks after sealing the gap closed can allow for more efficient window formation because the marks can be formed on a window that is otherwise fully manufactured (as opposed to patterning the 1st surface before assembling the window unit). The gap can be filled with a gas denser than air. Alternatively, by evacuating the gas in the gap, the gap can include a vacuum.

[0065] The present disclosure also relates to a method of preventing birds from colliding with a building substrate including a window, such as any window described herein. The method can include installing the window described herein in an opening of the building substrate, with the outward-facing 1st surface arranged as the outer surface of the building substrate.

[0066] Referring Figure 8A and 8B , where the window 100 shown is similar to those described in connection with Figures 2A - 2D except for the following.Figure 8A and 8B the window 100 in has a single pane (as opposed to the double-pane window 100 in Figures 2A - 2D ). Thus, Figure 8A and 8B the window in includes a first panel 102 having a first surface 104 and an opposite second surface 108. The first panel 102 may be disposed between frames 118 to form the window 100. The first panel 102 may have a pattern including a plurality of visible markings 106 at the first surface 104. In Figure 8A , the marking 106 includes an abraded portion 120 removed, while in Figure 8B , the marking includes a subsurface abraded portion 122.

[0067] Continuing to refer to Figure 8A and Figure 8B , patterning at the first surface 104 may include removing at least a portion of the material from the first surface 104 using a laser beam as described herein or creating microcracks below the first surface 104. The window 100 of Figure 8A and 8B can be manufactured by forming the marking 106 after the first panel 102 has been disposed in the frame 118 to form the window 100. Forming the marking 106 after the first panel 102 has been disposed in the frame 118 can allow for more efficient formation of the window 100 because the marking 106 can be formed on a window that has otherwise been fully manufactured (as opposed to patterning the first surface 104 before assembling the window unit).

[0068] Referring to Figure 9 , the window 100 shown therein is similar to the window described in connection with Figures 2A - 2D , except for the following. Figure 9 The window 100 in may further include at least one sidelight 146. The sidelight 146 may be located on at least one side of the first panel 102 between the first surface 104 and the second surface 108. For example, the sidelight 146 may be integrated into the frame 118 and emit light into the side of the first panel 102. Light rays emitted from the sidelight 146 may pass through the interior of the first panel 102, and at least some of the light rays may be incident on the marking 106 at the first surface 104. The portion of the light incident on the marking 106 emitted from the sidelight 146 may further illuminate the marking 106 such that they are more visible than the markings 106 not illuminated by the light of the sidelight 146. The marking 106 may redirect the incident light such that the marking 106 appears more visible. Thus, using the sidelight 146 can make the marking 106 even more visible, further preventing birds from colliding with the window 100.

[0069] Although the side light 146 shown is integrated into the frame 118 of the window 100 having two panels 102, 110 and having the removed abrasion portion 120 as the mark 106, it should be understood that the side light 146 can be used for the window 100 of the single panel 102 (e.g., Figure 8A and 8B ) and / or having the subsurface abrasion portion 122 as the mark 106. Additionally, although the side light 146 is shown as emitting light at the side of the first panel 102, the side light 146 can additionally or alternatively emit light at the side of the second panel 110, which can additionally or alternatively include the mark 106.

[0070] The following numbered clauses illustrate various aspects of the present disclosure:

[0071] Clause 1: A window, comprising: a first transparent panel including an outward-facing surface No. 1 and an opposite surface No. 2, a second transparent panel including an inward-facing surface No. 4 and an opposite surface No. 3, wherein the first transparent panel and the second transparent panel are spaced apart from each other by a gap, wherein the surface No. 1 includes a pattern, the pattern including a plurality of marks spaced apart on the surface No. 1, wherein each of the plurality of marks includes an abrasion portion, thereby leaving a visible mark at the surface No. 1.

[0072] Clause 2: The window according to Clause 1, wherein the abrasion portion is a laser-induced mark formed by applying a laser beam to the surface No. 1 to remove at least a portion of the material from the surface No. 1 or to generate microcracks beneath the surface No. 1.

[0073] Clause 3: The window according to Clause 1 or 2, wherein the abrasion portion is formed by sandblasting the surface No. 1 to remove at least a portion of the material from the surface No. 1.

[0074] Clause 4: The window according to any one of Clauses 1 to 3, wherein the abrasion portion is formed by removing at least a portion of the material from the surface No. 1.

[0075] Clause 5: The window according to any one of Clauses 1 to 4, wherein the abrasion portion is formed by generating microcracks beneath the surface No. 1.

[0076] Clause 6: The window according to any one of Clauses 1 to 5, wherein the surface No. 1 is an uncoated surface and / or a coated surface.

[0077] Clause 7: The window according to any one of Clauses 2 - 6, wherein the laser-induced mark is formed by a carbon dioxide laser.

[0078] Clause 8: The window according to any one of Clauses 2 to 7, wherein the laser beam has 0.5 J / cm at the position of the mark formed by the laser beam 2 to 10 J / cm 2Energy density.

[0079] Clause 9: A window according to any one of Clauses 1 to 8, wherein each of the plurality of marks scatters incident electromagnetic radiation.

[0080] Clause 10: A window according to any one of Clauses 1 to 9, wherein the gap is hermetically sealed by connecting the edges of the first panel and the second panel.

[0081] Clause 11: A window according to any one of Clauses 1 to 10, wherein the gap contains a gas denser than air.

[0082] Clause 12: A window according to any one of Clauses 1 to 11, wherein the gap is evacuated to create a vacuum.

[0083] Clause 13: A window according to Clause 12, further comprising a plurality of supports disposed in the gap to connect the first panel and the second panel.

[0084] Clause 14: A window according to Clause 13, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of marks is formed between positions where the plurality of supports contact the first panel.

[0085] Clause 15: A window according to Clause 13 or 14, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of marks is formed at positions where the plurality of supports contact the first panel.

[0086] Clause 16: A window according to any one of Clauses 1 to 15, wherein the first panel is a component of a building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) component.

[0087] Clause 17: A window according to any one of Clauses 1 to 16, wherein the window is disposed in a frame of a building structure, and the outermost surface No. 1 is arranged as the outer surface of the building structure.

[0088] Clause 18: A window according to any one of Clauses 2 to 17, wherein the gap is hermetically sealed by connecting the edges of the first panel and the second panel, and the plurality of marks are formed by applying a laser beam to the No. 1 surface after hermetically sealing the gap.

[0089] Clause 19: A window according to any one of Clauses 1 - 18, wherein the plurality of marks are not formed by chemical etching without being assisted by any photon-enhanced reaction.

[0090] Clause 20: A window according to any one of Clauses 1 to 19, wherein the plurality of marks exhibit a glossiness value of less than 1 at 20°.

[0091] Clause 21: A window according to any one of Clauses 1 to 20, wherein the pattern is spaced over the entire area of the No. 1 surface such that there is no four-square-inch area of the No. 1 surface without a mark from among the plurality of marks.

[0092] Clause 22: A window according to any one of Clauses 1 to 21, wherein the first panel comprises glass and / or plastic.

[0093] Clause 23: A window according to any one of Clauses 1 to 22, further comprising at least one sidelight positioned to emit light at a side of the first transparent panel between the No. 1 surface and the No. 2 surface.

[0094] Clause 24: A building structure comprising a window according to any one of Clauses 1 to 23.

[0095] Clause 25: The building structure according to Clause 24, comprising a building having an opening, wherein the window is installed in the opening and the outward-facing No. 1 surface is arranged as the outer surface of the building.

[0096] Clause 26: A method of manufacturing a window, comprising: providing an insulated transparent unit including a first transparent panel and a second transparent panel, the first transparent panel including an outward-facing No. 1 surface and an opposite No. 2 surface, the second transparent panel including an inward-facing No. 4 surface and an opposite No. 3 surface, wherein the first transparent panel and the second transparent panel are spaced apart from each other by a gap; and forming a pattern at the No. 1 surface, wherein the pattern includes a plurality of marks spaced apart at the No. 1 surface, and wherein each of the plurality of marks includes an abraded portion so as to leave a visible mark at the No. 1 surface.

[0097] Clause 27: The method according to Clause 26, wherein patterning includes removing at least a portion of the material of the No. 1 surface or generating microcracks beneath the No. 1 surface using a laser beam.

[0098] Clause 28: The method according to Clause 26 or 27, further comprising: sealing the gap closed by forming an edge connecting the first panel and the second panel, wherein after sealing the gap closed, the plurality of marks are formed at the No. 1 surface.

[0099] Clause 29: The method according to any one of Clauses 26 to 28, wherein the gap is filled with a gas denser than air.

[0100] Clause 30: The method according to any one of Clauses 26 to 29, wherein the gap contains a vacuum.

[0101] Clause 31: A method of preventing birds from colliding with a building substrate, comprising: installing a window according to any one of Clauses 1-23 in an opening of the building substrate, with the No. 1 surface facing outwards arranged as the outer surface of the building substrate.

[0102] Clause 32: A method of manufacturing a transparent member, comprising: providing a single transparent panel including a No. 1 surface facing outwards and an opposite No. 2 surface, wherein the single transparent panel is arranged between frames; and forming a pattern at the No. 1 surface, wherein the pattern includes a plurality of marks spaced apart at the No. 1 surface, and each of the plurality of marks includes an abraded portion, thereby leaving a visible mark at the No. 1 surface, and wherein the pattern is formed at the No. 1 surface after the first transparent panel is arranged between the frames.

[0103] Embodiment

[0104] Reference Figure 10 and 11 , exemplary VIG units were produced. Two double-pane VIG units having 25 support members in the gap between the first panel and the second panel were obtained, and the No. 1 surface of these VIG units was patterned at the No. 1 surface using a CO2 laser (manufactured by Trotec Laser (Marchtrenk, Austria)). The pattern of visible marks is visible in Figure 10 (dot marks), or Figure 11 (wavy pattern marks). Surprisingly, no problems were found during or after the patterning process, such as damage to the VIG units. The edges sealing the gap between the first and second panels (which were formed prior to the application of the CO2 laser) were not affected, contrary to the expected effect of performing the same patterning but using an acid etching technique. The transparent panels of the VIG units remained intact without signs of structural breakage. As Figures 10 - 11 shown, the pattern is clearly visible.

[0105] Referring to Figure 12 , an embodiment of surface patterning in which the No. 1 surface is coated is shown. The surface is patterned by removing at least a portion of the coating using a diode laser (λ = 390 nm).

[0106] Those skilled in the art will readily understand that the present disclosure can be modified without departing from the concepts disclosed in the foregoing specification. Accordingly, the specific embodiments described in detail herein are merely illustrative and do not limit the scope of the present disclosure, which is given by the full width of the appended claims and any and all equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. A window, comprising: A first transparent panel, which includes an outward-facing surface No. 1 and an opposite surface No. 2; A second transparent panel, which includes an inward-facing surface No. 4 and an opposite surface No. 3, wherein the first transparent panel and the second transparent panel are spaced apart from each other by a gap, wherein the surface No. 1 includes a pattern, the pattern including a plurality of marks spaced apart at the surface No. 1, wherein each of the plurality of marks includes an abraded portion, thereby leaving a visible mark at the surface No.

1.

2. The window according to claim 1, wherein the abraded portion is a laser-induced mark formed by applying a laser beam to the No. 1 surface to remove at least a portion of the material of the No. 1 surface or to generate microcracks under the No. 1 surface.

3. The window according to claim 1, wherein the abraded portion is formed by sandblasting the No. 1 surface to remove at least a portion of the material of the No. 1 surface.

4. The window according to claim 1, wherein the abraded portion is formed by removing at least a portion of the material of the No. 1 surface.

5. The window according to claim 1, wherein the abraded portion is formed by generating microcracks under the No. 1 surface.

6. The window according to claim 1, wherein the No. 1 surface is an uncoated surface and / or a coated surface.

7. The window according to claim 2, wherein the laser-induced mark is formed by a carbon dioxide laser.

8. The window according to claim 2, wherein the laser beam has an energy density of 0.5 J / cm 2 to 10 J / cm 2 at the position of the mark formed by the laser beam.

9. The window according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of marks scatters incident electromagnetic radiation.

10. The window according to claim 1, wherein the gap is closed by an edge seal connecting the first panel and the second panel.

11. The window according to claim 1, wherein the gap contains a gas denser than air.

12. The window according to claim 1, wherein the gap is evacuated to create a vacuum.

13. The window according to claim 12, further comprising a plurality of supports disposed in the gap to connect the first panel and the second panel.

14. The window according to claim 13, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of marks is formed between the positions where the plurality of supports contact the first panel.

15. The window according to claim 13, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of marks is formed at the positions where the plurality of supports contact the first panel.

16. The window according to claim 1, wherein the first panel is a component of a building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) component.

17. The window according to claim 1, wherein the window is disposed in a frame of a building structure, and the out-facing surface No. 1 is arranged as the outer surface of the building structure.

18. The window according to claim 2, wherein the gap is closed by an edge seal connecting the first panel and the second panel, and the plurality of marks are formed by applying a laser beam to the surface No. 1 after the gap is sealed closed.

19. The window according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of marks are not formed by chemical etching without any photon-enhanced reaction.

20. The window according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of marks exhibit a glossiness value of less than 1 at 20°.

21. The window according to claim 1, wherein the pattern is spaced over the entire area of the surface No. 1 such that there is no four-square-inch area on the surface No. 1 without a mark among the plurality of marks.

22. The window according to claim 1, wherein the first panel comprises glass and / or plastic.

23. The window according to claim 1, further comprising at least one sidelight positioned to emit light at a side of the first transparent panel between the surface No. 1 and the surface No.

2.

24. A building structure comprising the window according to claim 1.

25. The building structure according to claim 24, comprising a building having an opening, wherein the window is installed in the opening, and the out-facing surface No. 1 is arranged as the outer surface of the building.

26. A method of manufacturing a window, comprising: Provide an insulating transparent unit, the insulating transparent unit including a first transparent panel and a second transparent panel, the first transparent panel including an outward-facing surface No. 1 and an opposite surface No. 2, the second transparent panel including an inward-facing surface No. 4 and an opposite surface No. 3, wherein the first transparent panel and the second transparent panel are spaced apart from each other by a gap; and Form a pattern at the surface No. 1, wherein the pattern includes a plurality of marks spaced apart at the surface No. 1, wherein each of the plurality of marks includes an abraded portion, thereby leaving a visible mark at the surface No.

1.

27. The method according to claim 26, wherein the patterning comprises removing at least a portion of the material of the surface No. 1 or generating microcracks beneath the surface No. 1 using a laser beam.

28. The method according to claim 26, further comprising: Seal the gap closed by forming an edge connecting the first panel and the second panel, wherein the plurality of marks are formed at the surface No. 1 after sealing the gap closed.

29. The method according to claim 26, wherein the gap is filled with a gas having a density greater than air.

30. The method according to claim 26, wherein the gap comprises a vacuum.

31. A method for preventing birds from colliding with building substrates, comprising: Install the window according to claim 1 in an opening of a building substrate, with the outward-facing surface No. 1 arranged as the outer surface of the building substrate.

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