Window unit for building or structure

Abstract

Embodiments provide a window unit corner spacer for spacing first and second window panels in a window unit. The corner spacer may include a corner spacer body having a recess dimensioned to receive a solar cell, a first coupling portion, and a second coupling portion, each coupling portion extending from the body. The corner spacer may also include a first electrical connector located in the recess for electrically connecting the solar cell received in the recess to one or more electrical components. The corner spacer may also include a spacer coupler coupled to or formed with the body. The spacer coupler may be configured to be received at and coupled to one or more spacer portions that space the first and second window panels, where, in use, a primary seal is formed at least between the spacer coupler and the first and second window panels that prevents transfer of a gaseous medium, such as air.

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a window unit for a building or structure, and more particularly to a window unit including a solar cell. Background Art

[0002] Buildings such as office buildings, high-rise residences, and hotels use a large amount of external window panels and / or facades of integrated glass panels.

[0003] Such glass panels receive a large amount of sunlight, resulting in the need to use air conditioners to heat the indoor space. At least part of the sunlight received by the glass panels can be absorbed by solar cells for power generation.

[0004] PCT International Application Nos. PCT / AU2012 / 000778, PCT / AU2012 - 000787, and PCT / AU2014 / 000814 (owned by the present applicant) disclose window units having window glass that transmits visible light but include solar cells that absorb light (such as infrared radiation) for power generation.

[0005] In addition, the windows of a building can include other electrical components, such as components that adjust light transmission, which typically require control electronics. The window can be a sealed unit, and electrical components such as solar cells can be located within the sealed space. Positioning the control electronics and providing electrical connections for these electrical components can be challenging.

[0006] The present disclosure can provide further improved embodiments. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Embodiments provide a window unit corner spacer for spacing a first window panel and a second window panel in a window unit, the corner spacer including:

[0008] A corner spacer body having a recess sized to receive a solar cell;

[0009] A first coupling portion and a second coupling portion each extending from the body, the first coupler portion and the second coupler portion being configured to be received in and coupled to an elongate side support that supports one or more solar cells in use;

[0010] A first electrical connector located in the recess for electrically connecting a solar cell received in the recess to one or more electrical components; and

[0011] A spacer coupler, which is coupled to or forms with the body, the spacer coupler being configured to be received in and coupled to one or more spacer portions that space the first window panel and the second window panel apart, wherein, in use, a primary seal that prevents the transfer of a gaseous medium (such as air) is formed at least between the spacer coupler and the first and second window panels.

[0012] The spacer coupler may have opposite sides that, in use, are each bonded to one of the first or second window panels. The opposite sides may be textured such that a sealant applied to the texture bonds and flows similarly to a sealant applied to the spacer portion. The spacer coupler may be provided with a spacer coupler body and a coupling element extending from the spacer coupler body. The coupling element may be configured to be received in and coupled to one of the spacer portions. The coupling element may be coupled to the spacer coupler body. The coupling element may be provided with a dovetail pin, and the spacer coupler body is provided with a channel having a complementary shape that can receive the dovetail pin, thereby forming an interference fit between the dovetail pin and the channel to lock the dovetail pin and the channel together.

[0013] The first coupling portion and the second coupling portion may extend in a direction transverse to each other, for example, 90° away from the corner spacer body. The first coupling portion and the second coupling portion may each be provided with an elongate protrusion that provides an interference fit with an elongate side support. The elongate protrusion may extend longitudinally along the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion from the corner spacer body. The first coupling portion and the second coupling portion may each include a plurality of coupling portions. The recess may be provided with a locator that positions the solar cell in the correct orientation in use, whereby the terminals of the solar cell are aligned with the first electrical connector to slidably engage with the first electrical connector. The locator may be provided on the sidewall of the recess. The locator may be positioned in the recess near the first electrical connector.

[0014] The recess may be located on the right side of the corner spacer body such that the recess extends on the right side or along the right side of the corner spacer body. The recess may be located on the left side of the corner spacer body such that the recess extends on the left side or along the left side of the corner spacer body. The spacer coupler may include an electrical feedthrough for guiding electrical power between at least one solar cell electrically connected to the first electrical connector and an electrical component located outside the window unit. The electrical feedthrough may be sealed in such a way as to prevent a gas medium (such as air) from passing through the corner spacer having the electrical feedthrough.

[0015] The first electrical connector and the second electrical connector may be arranged such that one or more solar cells associated with the first elongated side support incorporating the first coupling portion may engage with the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector. The third electrical connector and the fourth electrical connector may be arranged such that one or more solar cells associated with the second elongated side support incorporating the second coupling portion may engage with the third electrical connector and the fourth electrical connector. The first electrical connector and the fourth electrical connector may be electrically connected together, and the second electrical connector and the third electrical connector may be electrically connected together. The first electrical connector and the second electrical connector may be electrically connected together and electrically connected to an electrical feedthrough. The third electrical connector and the fourth electrical connector may be electrically connected together and may be electrically connected to an electrical feedthrough separate from the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector.

[0016] Embodiments provide a coupling element for coupling together elongated side supports which, in use, are located between a first window pane and a second window pane in a window unit. In an embodiment, the coupling element may include a coupling body having a first side and a second side opposite the first side; a first coupling portion extending from the first side of the body in a first direction and a second coupling portion extending from the second side of the body in a second direction opposite the first direction, the first and second coupling portions being configured to receive and couple to separate elongated side supports which, in use, each support one or more solar cells; and a first elongated protrusion on a lateral side of the first coupling portion and a second elongated protrusion on a lateral side of the second coupling portion, the first and second elongated protrusions being configured to form an interference fit with corresponding elongated side supports.

[0017] The coupling element may further include a first electrical connector extending from the first side of the body to the second side and a second electrical connector extending from the first side of the body to the second side. The second electrical connector may be electrically isolated from the first electrical connector.

[0018] Embodiments provide a window unit spacer system for spacing apart a first window pane and a second window pane in a window unit. The spacer system may include one or more corner spacers as described above. The window unit spacer system may further include a coupler as described above.

[0019] Embodiments provide a window unit for a building or structure, the window unit comprising:

[0020] a first pane and a second pane, each pane having a region that is transparent to at least a portion of visible light;

[0021] a window spacer system as described above, wherein one or more elongated side spacer portions and one or more elongated side supports engage with one or more corner spacers, and

[0022] Wherein, the first panel and the second panel are spaced apart and adhered to at least one of one or more elongated side spacer parts, one or more elongated side support elements, and one or more corner spacers, such that a cavity is formed between the first panel and the second panel.

[0023] An embodiment provides a window unit for a building or a structure, the window unit comprising:

[0024] A first panel and a second panel, each panel having a region transparent to at least a part of visible light; and

[0025] A spacer structure at least partially located between the first panel and the second panel, the spacer structure comprising elongated side spacer parts and corner spacer parts, the elongated side spacer parts and the corner spacer parts together forming a spacer structure surrounding the space between the first panel and the second panel;

[0026] Wherein, at least one of the elongated side spacer parts and the corner spacer parts includes an electrical feedthrough for guiding electricity between a first electrical component located outside the window unit and a second electrical component located at or inside the window unit, and the at least one of the elongated side spacer part and the corner spacer part having the electrical feedthrough is sealed in such a way that the transmission of a gaseous medium (such as air) through at least one of the elongated side spacer part and the corner spacer part having the electrical feedthrough is avoided.

[0027] The electrical feedthrough can be hermetically sealed in at least one of the elongated side spacer part and the corner spacer part including the electrical feedthrough.

[0028] In a specific embodiment, at least one corner spacer part includes an electrical feedthrough.

[0029] In one embodiment, the first panel and the second panel are connected to the spacer structure using a sealing adhesive material (such as butyl). In addition, a layer of sealing adhesive can be applied to a part of the spacer structure and the edge parts of the first panel and the second panel, thereby forming a main seal that seals the internal space of the window unit in such a way as to at least substantially avoid the transfer of a gaseous medium (such as air) into the internal space.

[0030] The embodiment may have a significant advantage that the main seal is not damaged by the electrical feedthrough, so the presence of the electrical feedthrough does not allow moisture to penetrate into the internal space of the window unit, thereby promoting the long-term sealing performance of the window unit.

[0031] The window unit may further include an auxiliary seal, such as a seal formed of a silicone material.

[0032] The window unit may include a second electrical component. The second electrical component may be located within a space surrounded by a spacer structure between the first panel and the second panel. Alternatively, the second electrical component may be applied to or positioned on one of the first panel and the second panel. For example, the second electrical component may include at least one of a suspended particle device, an electrochromic coating, an electrorheological material, a liquid crystal device, a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) material, and an electrophoretic material.

[0033] In one embodiment, the second electrical component includes a solar cell located within a space surrounded by a spacer structure between the first panel and the second panel, such as at least a series of solar cells.

[0034] In one embodiment, the spacer structure is formed by joining a corner spacer portion and a side spacer portion together. The corner spacer portion and the elongate side spacer portion of the spacer structure may be joined together using any suitable connector, such as a connector having convex and concave joining portions. The corner spacer portion, the elongate side spacer portion, and the connector may be arranged to avoid the transmission of a gaseous medium (such as air) through the joined elongate side spacer portion and the corner spacer portion.

[0035] The spacer structure may further include a warm edge spacer, which may be provided in the form of at least one side spacer portion.

[0036] At least one side spacer portion may be formed by extruding a polymeric material. For example, the polymeric material may be polyisobutylene (PIB) that forms a thermoplastic material. In this embodiment, the side spacer portion may be formed by directly extruding the polymeric material between the first panel and the second panel and extruding it onto the surface of the corner spacer portion.

[0037] At least one of the corner spacer portion and the side spacer portion including an electrical feedthrough may further include other electronic components and / or electrical components, such as diodes and batteries, a battery charging controller, or a capacitor device for storing the electricity generated by the solar cell. In addition, control electronics for controlling the electrical components of the window unit may be incorporated into at least one of the corner spacer portion and the side spacer portion including an electrical feedthrough.

[0038] At least one of the corner spacer portion and the side spacer portion including an electrical feedthrough may also form part of a support structure for supporting the solar cell.

[0039] In a first embodiment, at least one corner spacer portion includes an electrical feedthrough. In this embodiment, at least one corner spacer portion including an electrical feedthrough may be formed of a suitable polymeric material. The remaining corner spacer portions may be formed of a metallic material such as aluminum or may also be formed of a suitable polymeric material. The support structure may include elongate side support elements which may be coupled to the corner spacer portions using suitable connectors (e.g., a connector including a male coupling portion and a female coupling portion). The elongate side support elements may be formed of a metallic material such as aluminum or a suitable polymeric material. In this embodiment, the elongate side spacer portions which are also coupled to the corner spacer portions may also be formed of a metallic material such as aluminum or a suitable polymeric material and may be separated from, coupled to, or form part of the respective elongate side support elements.

[0040] In a second embodiment, at least one side spacer portion includes an electrical feedthrough. At least one side spacer portion including an electrical feedthrough may be formed of a suitable polymeric material. The remaining side spacer portions may be formed of a metallic material such as aluminum or a suitable polymeric material. Additionally, the corner spacer portions may be formed of a suitable polymeric material or a metallic material such as aluminum. The support structure may include elongate side support elements which are coupled to the corner spacer portions using suitable connectors (e.g., a connector including a male coupling portion and a female coupling portion). The elongate side spacer portions may be separated from, coupled to, or form part of the respective elongate side support elements.

[0041] The corner spacer portions and the elongate side support elements may include recesses and / or grooves for receiving a portion of the solar cells.

[0042] The window unit may have side or edge portions and one, two, or three solar cells may be supported by the support structure at each side or edge portion.

[0043] The solar cells may be positioned parallel to the main surface of the first panel. Alternatively, the support structure may be arranged such that at least one solar cell is positioned at an angled orientation relative to the main surface of the first panel. The support structure may be arranged such that at least one solar cell is tilted at an angle of less than 90°, less than 70°, greater than 50°, less than 30°, or less than 10°.

[0044] In one embodiment, the spacer structure and the support structure are entirely located between the first panel and the second panel. The support structure and the solar cell strips may be positioned along the edges of the first and / or second panels and around a central rectangular region without solar cells.

[0045] The spacer structure can be a first spacer structure, and the window unit can include a second spacer structure. Additionally, the window unit can include a third panel that can be positioned parallel to the first and second panels and can be spaced apart from the second panel by the second spacer structure. The second spacer structure can be at least partially positioned between the second and third panels and can include an elongate side spacer portion and a corner spacer portion, with the elongate side spacer portion and the corner spacer portion joined together to form the second spacer structure surrounding the space between the second and third panels. In this embodiment, the second and third panels are connected to the second spacer structure using a sealing adhesive material such as butyl. In this embodiment, the first panel is also connected to the second panel through the first spacer structure using a suitable adhesive such as butyl. Additionally, a layer of sealing adhesive can be applied to a portion of the first and second spacer structures and to the edge portions of the first, second, and third panels to form a primary seal, and the primary seal seals the interior space of the window unit (between the first and second panels and between the second and third panels) in a manner that at least substantially avoids the transfer of gaseous media such as air into the interior space. The window unit can also include an auxiliary seal, such as a seal formed from a silicone material.

[0046] The first edge region of the first panel can extend beyond the projection of the perimeter of the second panel in the direction of the surface normal of the first panel.

[0047] The first panel can also include a first component panel portion and a second component panel portion, with the first component panel portion and the second component panel portion bonded together in a manner that avoids an air gap between the first component panel portion and the second component panel portion and forms a laminated structure. At least a series of solar cells can be sandwiched between the first component panel portion and the second component panel portion and can be embedded in an adhesive material such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB). The solar cells of at least a series of solar cells can be bifacial solar cells and can be arranged in an overlapping "shingle" arrangement.

[0048] The first component panel portion can have a first major surface that is parallel to the first major surface of the second component panel portion, and the surface area of the first major surface of the second panel can be less than the area of the first major surface of the first component panel portion, such that the first component panel portion and the second component panel portion are arranged with the projection of the first component panel portion extending beyond the perimeter of the second component panel portion in the direction of the surface normal of the first component panel portion.

[0049] Solar cells are typically silicon-based, but can also include CuInSe2, CIGS or CIS, GaAs, CdS, or CdTe.

[0050] The window unit can be arranged such that the central region of the window unit is transparent to at least most visible light, and the central region is at least 5, 10, 15, 20, 50, 100, or even 500 times larger in area than the panel on which the solar cell series is located. The central region of the window unit can be a rectangular region and can include 70%, 80%, 90%, or more of the surface area of the main surface of the first panel. The central region is transparent to at least most visible light and can have a transmittance of at least 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, or even at least 95% for visible light incident on the receiving surface under normal incidence conditions.

[0051] The present disclosure will be more fully understood from the following description of specific non - limiting embodiments. The description is provided with reference to the non - limiting drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0052] Figure 1 is a schematic top view of a window unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0053] Figure 2-11 shows components of a window unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] Figures 12-15 shows an embodiment of a corner spacer.

[0055] Figure 16 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a corner spacer.

[0056] Figure 17 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a coupler. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0057] First, referring to Figure 1 , a window unit according to an embodiment will now be described. The window unit 100 can be provided, for example, in the form of a window of a building, a skylight, a window of a vehicle, or any other structure that generally includes a window.

[0058] Figure 1 is a top view of the window unit 100. The window unit 100 includes a first panel 102 parallel to a second panel. Both the first panel 102 and the second panel have regions that are transparent to at least a portion of visible light. In this embodiment, two solar cells 104 and 106 are positioned adjacent to the spacer portions on each side of the panel 102. The window unit 100 includes a spacer structure that spaces the first panel 102 from the second panel and a support structure for supporting the solar cell strips 104, 106. The spacer and support structure include corner spacer portions 107, 109, which will be described below with reference to Figure 2-10A further description. The corner spacer portion 109 includes an electrical feedthrough, and the solar cells of the solar cell strips 104, 106 are electrically connected to the electrical feedthrough, so that the generated electricity can be obtained through the electrical feedthrough.

[0059] The spacer structure, the first panel 102 and the second panel define an internal space in which the solar cells 104, 106 are located or other electrical components are located. The first series of solar cells 104 and the second series of solar cells 106 are located around the central region of the first panel, and the transmittance of the central region to visible light is 80%, 90% or even higher. The window unit 100 may also include another electrical or electronic component that can be applied to or positioned at one of the first panel 102 or the second panel. For example, the window unit may include an electrochromic coating, a current fluid material, a liquid crystal device or a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) material and an electrophoretic material. Alternatively, other electrical components, such as blinds, may be located between the first panel 102 and the second panel.

[0060] Now refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the components of the window unit 200 according to an embodiment are described in more detail. Figure 2 and Figure 3 An embodiment is shown, in which the window unit 200 is a double-glazed window unit including a first panel 202 and a second panel 204. The first panel 202 and the second panel 204 are formed of a suitable glass, such as low-iron glass. The window unit 200 includes a spacer structure having elongated side spacer portions 206 and 208 and separating the first panel 202 from the second panel 204. The elongated side spacer portions 206 and 208 are connected to corner spacer portions (such as the corner spacer 210 shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3 ).

[0061] The side spacer portions 206, 208 are formed of aluminum in this embodiment (e.g., by aluminum extrusion), and the corner spacer portion is formed of a polymer material.

[0062] In this embodiment, the window unit further includes a corner spacer portion 211 ( Figure 2 and Figure 3(not shown in the figure) and has an electrical feedthrough. The corner spacer portion 211 with the electrical feedthrough is arranged to establish an electrical connection between the electrical components outside the window unit 200 and the solar cells or other electrical components within the internal space of the window unit 200. The corner spacer portion 211 may also include additional electronic or electrical components, such as diodes and batteries, battery charge controllers, or capacitor means for storing the electricity generated by the solar cells. In addition, control electronics for controlling the electrical components of the window unit, such as electrochromic coatings, electrofluidic materials, liquid crystal devices, or polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) materials and electrophoretic materials, may be incorporated into the corner spacer portion. Further description of the corner spacer portion 211 will be made hereinafter with reference to Figure 6 The corner spacer portion 211 will be further described. The window unit 200 includes three other corner spacer portions 210. Figure 2 and Figure 3 One of the corner spacer portions 210 is shown in

[0063] The window unit 200 also includes a support structure for supporting the solar cell strips. The support structure includes an elongated side support element 212 formed by extruding aluminum. The side support element 212 is coupled to the corner spacer portions 210, 211 using a snap-fit device having convex and concave portions. In this embodiment, the support structure is arranged to support two parallel solar cell strips 302, 304 along each edge portion of the first panel 202 and the second panel 204. The support element 212 may include recesses and / or grooves (not shown) for receiving a portion of the solar cell 302. The solar cell 302 is oriented parallel to the light-receiving surface of the first panel 202, and the solar cell 304 is positioned at an angular orientation with respect to the light-receiving surface of the first panel 202.

[0064] In addition, the support structure includes a coupling element 214 having two male coupling portions and is arranged to couple two adjacent elongated side support elements 212 together.

[0065] Figure 2 and Figure 3 Only some components of the window unit 200 are shown. Those skilled in the art will understand that the assembled window unit 200 forms a rectangular structure, including three corner spacer portions 210, one corner spacer portion 211, a plurality of elongated side support elements 212, and a coupling element 214. In addition, the assembled window unit 200 includes four elongated side spacer portions 206, 208 coupled to the corner spacer portions 210, 211.

[0066] The first panel 202 and the second panel 204 are connected to the elongated side spacer portions 206, 208 using a sealing adhesive material such as butyl and form a main seal that seals the interior space of the window unit 200 in a manner that avoids the transfer of gaseous media such as air. The window unit 200 also includes auxiliary seals, such as seals formed from a silicone resin material, which are applied to the exposed edges of the corner spacer portions 210, 211, the exposed portions of the elongated side spacer portions 206, 208, adhesive materials such as butyl (not shown), and the edge portions of the first panel 202 and the second panel 204.

[0067] A suitable desiccant (not shown) can be placed within the elongated side spacer portions 206, 208 and / or within the elongated side support elements 212. The elongated portions 206 and 208 can be provided with perforations on their inner surfaces to allow moisture to transfer from the cavities within the window unit 200 to the desiccant. In an embodiment, the elongated side spacer portions 206 and / or 208 are spaced apart from the side support elements 212 such that a gap is formed therebetween. This gap can assist the desiccant in absorbing moisture. In an embodiment, the gap between the spacer portions 206 and / or 208 and the side support elements 212 is from about 1 mm to 2 mm, such as about 1 mm.

[0068] Now referring to Figure 4 and Figure 5 the corner spacer portion 210 will be described in more detail. Figure 4 A perspective view is shown, and Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the corner spacer portion 210. In this embodiment, the corner spacer portion 210 includes conductive bars 502, 504 formed from copper. The corner spacer portion 210 includes electrical connectors in the form of sockets 506, 508, 510, and 512 for connection to solar cell bars. The conductive bar 502 connects the socket 506 to the socket 510, and the conductive bar 504 connects the socket 508 to the socket 512.

[0069] The corner spacer portion 210 has a protrusion 402 that is received within Figure 2 and Figure 3 the hollow ends of the elongated side spacer portions 206, 208 shown. The protrusion 402 is formed from a flexible material and includes fins or barbs 404 that, when connected, press against the inner wall portions of the elongated side spacer portions 206, 208 and achieve an airtight connection.

[0070] Figure 6Is a perspective view of the corner spacer portion 211 of the spacer coupler in the form of the electrical feedthrough 400. The corner spacer portion 211 is related to the corner spacer portion 210, and the same components are given the same reference numerals. The corner spacer portion 211 with the electrical feedthrough 400 is sealed to avoid the transmission of air through the corner spacer portion including the electrical feedthrough. The corner spacer portion 211 with the electrical feedthrough 400 can be hermetically sealed. The electrical feedthrough 400 is electrically connected to contacts ( Figure 6 not shown in), such as pins or sockets at the connection portions 403, 406, which are positioned to be connected to the electrical contacts of the solar cell strips.

[0071] The electrical feedthrough 400 has a terminal 401 for connection to an external electrical system. The characteristics of the terminal 401, such as size and power capacity, can be determined by the voltage generated by the window unit equipped with the electrical feedthrough. For example, compared with the non-transparent glass of the curtain wall, the transparent glass tends to have fewer solar cells, so the voltage output of the transparent glass tends to be less than the voltage output of the non-transparent glass of the curtain wall. Therefore, the terminal 401 can be adjusted according to the power output of the window unit. The terminal 401 can be a separate component that can be hermetically sealed to the electrical feedthrough 400.

[0072] The corner spacer portions 210, 211 and the coupling element 214 can include a polymer material, and the side spacer portions 206, 208 can be formed of aluminum. In a variant of the embodiment, the side spacer portions 206, 208 can alternatively be formed by directly extruding a polymer material between the first panel and the second panel. For example, the polymer material can be polyisobutylene (PIB) that forms a thermoplastic material. In this variant, the corner spacer portion does not include the protrusion 402 for connection to the side spacer portion, and the polymer material is directly extruded onto the surface of the corner spacer portion 210 and / or the elongated side support element 212, from which the protrusion 402 would otherwise extend.

[0073] Figure 7 Shows the components of the triple-glazed window unit 700, and Figure 8 、 Figure 9 Illustrates other components of the window unit 700. Some components of the triple-glazed window unit 700 are related to those referred to Figures 2-6relates to the components of the double - glazed window unit 200 shown, and the same components are given the same reference numerals. In this embodiment, the window unit 700 includes a third panel 701, which is a glass panel formed of low - iron glass. The third panel 701 is positioned parallel to the first panel 202 and the second panel 204. The window unit 700 includes a second spacer structure that separates the third panel 701 from the second panel 204. The second spacer structure includes elongated side spacer portions 704 and 706 corresponding to the side spacer portions 206, 208.

[0074] The window unit 700 includes a corner spacer portion 708 that includes an electrical feed - through 400. The window unit 700 includes three other corner spacer portions (not shown), which in this embodiment do not include an electrical feed - through 400 but have the same external shape as the corner spacer portion 708. The three other corner spacer portions include internal conductive bars, which can be formed of, for example, copper and are connected to sockets to be coupled to the pins of solar cell bars.

[0075] The window unit 700 further includes elongated side support elements 711. When the window unit 700 is assembled, two of the side support elements 711 are coupled to the corner spacer portion 708 at the coupling portions 709 and 713. In this embodiment, the elongated side support portions 704 and 706 are arranged to support three solar cells 712, 714, and 716 along each edge portion of the window unit 700.

[0076] Figure 8 is a top view of the corner spacer portion 708 having an electrical feed - through 400, which is related to the corner spacer portion 211 referred to above Figures 2-6 However, compared to the corner spacer portion 211, the thickness of the corner spacer portion 708 is increased, and the corner spacer portion 708 has additional protrusions for connection to the additional elongated side spacer portions 704 and 706. These protrusions ( Figure 7 not shown) are similar to the protrusions 402 of the corner spacer portion 210 and also include fins or barbs similar to Figure 5 the fins or barbs 404 shown. The protrusions 402 are formed of a flexible material and include fins or barbs 404 that, when connected, push against the inner wall portions of the elongated side spacer portions 206, 208, 704, and 706 and achieve an airtight connection. The electrical feed - through 400 is electrically coupled to contacts (not shown), which are positioned to be coupled to the Figure 7 electrical contacts of the solar cell bars 712, 714, 716 shown.

[0077] Figure 9 is a top view of the components of the window unit 700. Figure 9Shows a corner spacer portion 720, which is related to the above-mentioned corner spacer portion 708 but does not include the electrical feedthrough 400. The same components are given the same reference numerals. The corner spacer portion 720 includes conductive bars formed of copper, which connect the sockets to be coupled to the pins of the solar cell bars. The corner spacer portion 720 also includes four protrusions 402 with fins or barbs 404 for connection to Figure 7 the elongated side spacer portions 206, 208, 704, and 706 shown. The corner spacer portion 720 includes a coupling portion for coupling to an elongated side support element (such as the elongated side support 711). In addition, Figure 9 a part of a coupling element 722 for coupling adjacent elongated side support elements together is shown.

[0078] Figure 7 The window unit 700 shown includes a plurality of elongated side support elements 711 ( Figure 7 only one elongated side spacer portion is shown therein), and adjacent elongated side support elements 711 (also shown in Figure 9 ) are coupled together using the coupling element 722 (as shown in Figure 9 ) to form a side support element with an increased length. The window unit 700 also includes a corner spacer portion 708 with an electrical feedthrough 400 (as shown in Figure 7 and Figure 8 ) and three corner spacer portions 720 without electrical feedthroughs, one of which is as shown in Figure 9 . The corner spacer portions 708 and 720 are coupled to the elongated side support elements. The window unit 700 also includes a plurality of elongated side spacer portions 206, 208, 704, and 706, which are also connected to the corner spacer portions 708 and 720 and, together with the glass panels 202, 204, and 701, form the window unit 700, which includes a primary seal form and a secondary seal form in a manner similar to the primary seal and secondary seal of the above-mentioned window unit 200.

[0079] Now turning to Figure 10 , a schematic perspective view of a corner spacer portion 1000 according to another embodiment is shown. The corner spacer portion 1000 is related to the corner spacer portion 211 shown in Figure 6 , and similar components will be given similar reference numerals. The corner spacer portion 1000 has protrusions 402 for connection to elongated side spacer portions (such as the side spacer portions 206, 208 shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3 ), which together couple two glass panels (such as shown in Figure 2The panels 202 and 204 shown in [reference] are separated, thereby forming a gap between the two panels. In this embodiment, the corner spacer portion 1000 is arranged to be coupled to four elongated side support elements (not shown, but similar to Figure 7 the side support element 711 shown in [reference]). In this embodiment, the side support elements are arranged to receive parallel solar cell strips located in a common plane (not inclined). Each of the coupling portions 602, 604, 606, and 608 has a plurality of elongated protrusions 610 that are arranged to engage with the inner surface of the hollow side support element formed by extruding aluminum. In this embodiment, the coupling portions 602, 604, 606, and 608 are formed of a polymer material, and the protrusions engage tightly with the inner surface of the side support element. When the inner surface of the side support element slides over the coupling portion, the side support surface may even "bite into" the protrusions, thereby achieving a fit with no tolerance or very small tolerance.

[0080] Figure 11 Figure [reference] shows a corner spacer portion 1100 according to another embodiment. The same components are given the same reference numerals. In this embodiment, the corner spacer portion 1100 is not arranged to be coupled to side support elements for supporting solar cells. However, similar to the corner spacer portion 1000 described above, the corner spacer portion 1100 also has protrusions 402 for connection to elongated side spacer portions (such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 the side spacer portions 206, 208 shown in [reference]) and for spacing two glass panels apart, thereby forming a gap between the two glass plates. The corner spacer portion 1100 also has an electrical feedthrough 400 and is sealed to prevent air transmission through the corner spacer portion including the electrical feedthrough. The electrical feedthrough 400 is electrically coupled to an electrical component (not shown), which in this embodiment includes an electrochromic coating. The spacer portion 1100 also controls an electronic device for controlling the electrochromic coating. Those skilled in the art will understand that the window unit 100 may also alternatively include another device or coating for controlling the optical properties of the window unit and may include electrofluidic materials, liquid crystal devices, or polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) materials, electrophoretic materials, or suspended particle devices.

[0081] A window unit including the spacer portion 1100 may, for example, include Figure 2 the window panels 202, 204 shown in [reference], and the corner spacer portion 1100 and the elongated side spacer portions 206, 208 (as Figure 2 and Figure 3 shown in [reference]) are spaced apart from each other.

[0082] Now, reference will be made to Figures 12 to 15Describe another embodiment of the corner spacer part 800. The corner spacer part 800 has a body 810. Extending from the body 810 are a first coupling part 812 and a second coupling part 814. Both the first coupling part 812 and the second coupling part 814 have a longitudinal direction that is transverse to each other. In Figure 12 In the illustrated embodiment, the first coupling part 812 and the second coupling part 814 are arranged at 90 degrees to each other.

[0083] The first coupling part 812 has two protrusions 812a and 812b, and the second coupling part 814 has two parts 814a and 814b. The corner spacer part 800 is not limited to each coupling part having two parts and can have any number. In use, side support elements (such as 212) snap-fit into the corresponding first coupling part 812 and second coupling part 814. Both the first coupling part 812 and the second coupling part 814 are provided with a plurality of elongate protrusions 820 that are arranged to engage with the inner surface of a hollow side support element formed by extruding aluminum. The elongate protrusions 820 help to form an interference fit with the inner surface of the hollow side support element. In an embodiment, the elongate protrusions 820 are provided on opposite sides (i.e., the top and bottom surfaces) of the first coupling part 812 and the second coupling part 814, as Figure 13 shown. In an embodiment, the elongate protrusions 820 are provided on one of the top or bottom surfaces of the first coupling part 812 and the second coupling part 814 (not shown). In an embodiment, the elongate protrusions 820 extend longitudinally from the body 810 along the corresponding first coupling part 812 or second coupling part 814.

[0084] The ends of each coupling part 812 and 814 are provided with a locator 816 that helps to position the coupling parts 812 and 814 in a channel or passage of the hollow side support element. The locator 816 has a head 818 and a circumferential channel 817 that extends transversely around the coupling parts 812 and 814. In an embodiment, the cross-sectional profile of the head 818 is the same as the cross-sectional profile of the corresponding coupling parts 812 and 814. In an embodiment, the cross-sectional profile of the head 818 is larger than the cross-sectional profile of the corresponding coupling parts 812 and 814.

[0085] The body 810 is also provided with a recess 822. The size of the recess 822 is set to accommodate a solar cell (not shown). The advantage of the recess 822 is that it increases the surface area of the solar cell that can be used with the corner spacer part 800. The recess 822 has a pair of opposite side walls 824 and 826 that extend upward from the floor 823. In use, the bottom surface of the solar cell rests on the floor 823. The recess 822 also has an end wall 828 against which the end face of the solar cell can abut. A first socket 834 on the first side of the body 810 is electrically connected to a spacer coupler in the form of an electrical feedthrough 400a located on the end wall 828. The first side is represented by a first coupling part 812, and the second side is represented by a second coupling part 814. During installation, the solar cell is slid into the recess 822 such that the electrical terminals of the solar cell are received in the socket 834. To assist in guiding the electrical terminals of the solar cell into the socket 834, the recess is provided with a locator in the form of a tab 830. The tab 830 is arranged such that the lower side 831 of the tab 830 urges the solar cell downward to sit on the floor 823, so that by simply pushing the solar cell into the recess 822, the electrical terminals of the solar cell are aligned with the socket 834. In an embodiment, the lower side 831 of the tab 830 is provided with a tapered surface or a ramp surface to assist in guiding or pushing the solar cell downward into the recess 822 during installation.

[0086] The body 810 is also provided with a second socket 836 on the first side of the body. The second socket 836 is electrically connected to the first socket 834 via a conductive bar 842. The conductive bar 842 can be formed of a stamped conductive material such as copper. The conductive bar 842 can be provided with an insulator on its upper surface. The second side of the body 810 has a third socket 848 and a fourth socket 840 that are electrically connected to each other and to the electrical feedthrough 400a via a conductive bar 844. The conductive bar 844 can be formed of a stamped conductive material such as copper. The conductive bar 844 can be provided with an insulator on its upper surface. The conductive bar 844 is separate from and electrically isolated from the conductive bar 842.

[0087] Now refer to Figures 14a to 15Describe another embodiment of the electrical feedthrough 400a. The electrical feedthrough 400a is similar to the electrical feedthrough 400, and the same features are described with the same reference numerals. Different from the electrical feedthrough 400, the coupling projection 402a of the electrical feedthrough 400a is a separate component and is then mounted onto the body 401 of the electrical feedthrough 300a. The coupling projection 402a is provided with a dovetail pin 410. In an embodiment, the dovetail pin 410 is tapered such that the upper surface 414 of the dovetail pin 410 is wider than the bottom surface 416. The body 411 is provided with a complementary-shaped channel 412 such that the dovetail pin 410 can be received in the channel 412 by sliding the dovetail pin 410 downward into the channel as shown by the arrow 419 until the upper surface 414 is flush or substantially flush with the top surface 418 of the body 411. Since the dovetail pin is tapered, the dovetail pin forms an interference fit with the channel to which it is to be locked. Thus, the dovetail pin 410 and the channel 412 form a locking tapered sliding dovetail. In one embodiment, the dovetail pin 410 needs to be, for example, tapped into the channel with a hammer to ensure that the dovetail pin is tightly received in the channel 412. In an embodiment, during the installation process, the coupling projection 402a is pushed into the side spacer portion 206 and then the dovetail pin 410 is inserted into the channel 412. In an embodiment, during the installation process, the dovetail pin 410 is inserted into the channel 412 and then the coupling projection 402a is pushed into the side spacer portion 206. The advantage of using the coupling projection 402a is that butyl can be applied to the side spacer portion before assembling the window frame. This can provide flexibility in the way the window unit is assembled, especially when comparing small and large units that may require different assembly conditions.

[0088] Instead of using a sliding tapered dovetail, the channel 412 can be provided with a stop or the like that restricts the movement of the dovetail pin 410 in the channel 412. In such an embodiment, the dovetail pin 410 can be replaced with a different shape, such as a rectangular or circular projection.

[0089] In an embodiment, the top surface 418 and the bottom surface 420 of the body 401 are textured to help a sealant, such as butyl adhesive, adhere to the electrical feedthrough 400a. The terms "top" and "bottom" are used only with reference to Figures 14a to 15 the orientation of the electrical feedthrough 400a shown and do not restrict the electrical feedthrough 300a to any particular orientation. The top and bottom surfaces of the electrical feedthrough 400 can also be textured similarly. The texture can help ensure that the sealant adheres to the electrical feedthrough 400a, similar to other components of the window assembly, such as the side spacer portion 206 that is typically formed of aluminum. Similar sealing performance can help ensure that a consistent amount of sealant is applied to the electrical feedthrough 400a and other components when using an automated sealant applicator that is typically used in the high-volume manufacturing process of window frames.

[0090] The relative position of the recess 822 means that the corner spacer part 800 forms a "right-handed" corner spacer part, which is configured to be located on one side of the window unit. In the "right-handed" configuration, the recess 822 is on the right side of the first side second socket 836. In other words, in the "right-handed" configuration, the recess 822 is positioned along the right side of the body 810 such that the recess 822 extends along the right side of the body 810. Similarly, in the "right-handed" configuration, the first socket 834 is on the right side of the recess 822. Figure 16 An embodiment of a "left-handed" corner spacer part 800a is shown. The corner spacer part 800a is a mirror image of the corner spacer part 800, where like features are described with like reference numerals. In the corner spacer part 800a, the recess 822a is on the left side of the first socket 836a on the first side of the body 810a. Similarly, the first socket 834a is on the left side of the recess 822a. The terms "left" and "right" used to describe the position of features relative to the recess 822 are referenced relative to the insertion direction of the solar cell into the recess 822. Different from the corner spacer part 800, the corner spacer part 800a is provided with a spacer coupler in the form of a non-electric feedthrough 400b such that the second and third sockets 836a and 838b are electrically connected to each other by a connector 852, and the first and fourth sockets 834 and 840 are electrically connected to each other by a connector 850, similar to the corner spacer part 210 described above. The non-electric feedthrough 400b can use a coupling protrusion 402a and a channel 412 similar to the electric feedthrough 400a.

[0091] The corner spacer part 800 and the corner spacer part 800a form part of a spacer system, where a combination of "right-handed" and "left-handed" spacer parts is used and positioned around the window unit. Since the window unit only requires one electric feedthrough (e.g., 400, 400a) to connect the window unit to an external electrical system, one corner of the window unit will have, for example, the corner spacer part 800, and the other three corners will include corner spacer parts with non-electric feedthroughs 400b. It should be understood that either the "right-handed" or "left-handed" direction of the corner spacer part has an electric feedthrough 400 / 400a. For example, the spacer system typically includes four corner spacer parts, including two "left-handed" and two "right-handed" corner spacer parts, where one corner spacer part has an electric feedthrough 400 / 400a and the other three have non-electric feedthroughs 400a.

[0092] Depending on the size of the window unit, the elongated side support elements (e.g., 212) may need to be connected together in a daisy chain to provide sufficient span along the edge of the window panel that forms part of the window unit. Thus, in an embodiment, the spacer system further includes a coupler 900. Now reference will be made to Figure 17 Describe the coupler 900.

[0093] The coupler 900 has a body 910 with a first side 911 and a second side 913 opposite the first side. A coupling portion 912 extends from the first side 911, and a coupling portion 914 extends from the second side 913. In Figure 17 the illustrated embodiment, the coupling portion 912 has a first coupling portion 912a and a second coupling portion 912b that extend on one side of the body 910, and the coupling portion 914 has a first coupling portion 914a and a second coupling portion 914b that extend on the second side of the body 610. Separate elongated side support elements are configured to receive and be fixed to the coupling portion 912 or the coupling portion 914. The longitudinal alignment of the first coupling portion 912 and the second coupling portion 914 is such that when the elongated side support elements are coupled to the first coupling portion 912 and the second coupling section 914, the corresponding elongated side support elements are longitudinally aligned.

[0094] Both the coupling portions 912 and 914 are provided with elongated protrusions 920, which are similar to the elongated protrusions 820. The elongated protrusions 920 are located on the main surfaces of the coupling portions 912 and 914. Extending between the main surfaces is an outer side 921. Auxiliary elongated protrusions 922 are provided on the outer side 921. Although Figure 17 not shown in the figure, for example, another outer side of the coupling portion 912a may also be provided with the auxiliary elongated protrusions 922. The auxiliary elongated protrusions 922 form an interference fit with the side or lateral portion of the elongated side support element. Thus, the auxiliary elongated protrusions 922 contribute to the lateral stability of the connection between the elongated side support element and the body 910. This may be beneficial during the manufacturing process of a window unit, which is typically oriented in the vertical direction. In such a vertical orientation, any lateral movement of the elongated side support element around the coupler 900 will cause the daisy-chain elongated side support elements to be non-linear. Therefore, the auxiliary elongated protrusions 922 contribute to the axial alignment of the daisy-chain elongated side support elements during the manufacturing process before using sealants and adhesives to fix the components of the window unit together.

[0095] The coupler 900 further includes a first electrical connector 924 and a second electrical connector 926. The first electrical connector 924 and the second electrical connector 926 are electrically isolated from each other. In use, a first solar cell abuts or is close to the first side 911, and a second solar cell abuts or is close to the second side 913. The first solar cell and the second solar cell can be electrically connected to each other by being electrically engaged with the first electrical connector 924 and / or the second electrical connector 926.

[0096] In a variant of the above-described embodiment, one of the panels 202, 204 is replaced by a laminated structure including two parallel component panel portions. The two component panel portions are bonded together in a manner that avoids an air gap between the component panel portions. A series of solar cells is located between the two component panel portions and is oriented along the edges of the two component panel portions. The series of solar cells is embedded in an adhesive material such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB). The solar cells are double-sided and are arranged in an overlapping or "shingle" arrangement. The solar cells are electrically connected to electrical components within the spacer portion 1100 and provide operating power for the electrochromic coating. In this embodiment, the spacer portion 1100 also includes control electronics and a battery for storing the generated power.

[0097] The above-described embodiments of the window unit 100 and the window unit 200 may relate to window units for transparent glazing, curtain wall non-transparent glazing, or cladding. Accordingly, the above-described embodiments, such as using the textures on the top surface 418 and the bottom surface 420 of the body 401 for sealing, are equally applicable to transparent glazing and curtain wall non-transparent glazing.

[0098] Those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications of the described embodiments are possible. For example, the edge region of the first panel 202 may extend beyond the projection of the perimeter of the second panel 204 in the direction of the surface normal of the first panel 202.

[0099] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the corner spacer portions 109, 211, and 600 include electrical feedthroughs. In a variant of the embodiment, one of the side spacer portions may be modified to include electrical feedthroughs. In such a case, the side spacer portion including the electrical feedthroughs may be connected to or form part of the side support element 212 and may be formed of a suitable polymeric material.

[0100] Those skilled in the art will understand that the cited prior art does not constitute an admission that the cited prior art is part of the common general knowledge in Australia or other countries.

[0101] In the following claims and the preceding description, unless the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprising" or variants such as "containing" or "including" are used in an inclusive sense, i.e., specifying the presence of the stated features, but not precluding the presence or addition of other features in the various embodiments of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A window unit corner spacer for spacing apart a first window panel and a second window panel in a window unit, the corner spacer comprising: A corner spacer body having a recess, the size of the recess being set to accommodate a solar cell; A first coupling portion and a second coupling portion, each of the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion extending from the body, the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion being configured to be received in and coupled to an elongate side support, the elongate side support supporting one or more solar cells in use; A first electrical connector located in the recess for electrically connecting the solar cell received in the recess to one or more electrical components; And A spacer coupler coupled to or formed with the body, the spacer coupler being configured to be received in and coupled to one or more of the spacer portions that space apart the first window panel and the second window panel, wherein, in use, a primary seal preventing transfer of a gaseous medium such as air is formed at least between the spacer coupler and the first window panel and between the spacer coupler and the second window panel.

2. The corner spacer for a window unit according to claim 1, wherein, The spacer coupler has opposite sides which, in use, are each adhesively bonded to one of the first window panel or the second window panel, wherein the opposite sides are textured such that a sealant applied to the texture adheres and flows similarly to a sealant applied to the spacer portion.

3. The window unit corner spacer according to claims 1 to 2, wherein, The spacer coupler is provided with a spacer coupler body and a coupling element extending from the spacer coupler body, the coupling element being configured to be received in and coupled to one of the spacer portions.

4. The window unit corner spacer according to claim 3, wherein, The coupling element is couplable to the spacer coupler body.

5. The window unit corner spacer according to claim 4, wherein, The coupling element is provided with a dovetail pin and the spacer coupler body is provided with a channel having a complementary shape that can receive the dovetail pin such that an interference fit is formed between the dovetail pin and the channel to lock the dovetail pin and the channel together.

6. The window unit corner spacer according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The first coupling portion and the second coupling portion extend away from the corner spacer body in a direction transverse to each other, such as at 90°.

7. The window unit corner spacer according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The first coupling portion and the second coupling portion are each provided with an elongate protrusion that forms an interference fit with the elongate side support.

8. The window unit corner spacer according to claim 7, wherein the elongate protrusion extends longitudinally along the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion from the corner spacer body.

9. The window unit corner spacer according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The first coupling portion and the second coupling portion each comprise a plurality of coupling portions.

10. The corner spacer for a window unit according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The recess is provided with a locator that positions the solar cell in the correct orientation in use such that the terminals of the solar cell are aligned with the first electrical connector to slidably engage with the first electrical connector.

11. The window unit corner spacer according to claim 10, wherein, The locator is provided on a sidewall of the recess.

12. The window unit corner spacer according to claim 10 or 11, wherein, The locator is located in the recess close to the first electrical connector.

13. The window unit corner spacer according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, The recess is located on the right side of the corner spacer body such that the recess extends on the right side of the corner spacer body or along the right side of the corner spacer body.

14. The window unit corner spacer according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, The recess is located on the left side of the corner spacer body such that the recess extends on the left side of the corner spacer body or along the left side of the corner spacer body.

15. The window unit corner spacer according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein, The spacer coupler includes an electrical feedthrough for guiding electricity between at least one solar cell electrically connected to the first electrical connector and an electrical component located outside the window unit, and the electrical feedthrough is sealed in a manner that prevents a gaseous medium such as air from transferring through the corner spacer having the electrical feedthrough.

16. The window unit corner spacer according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein The first electrical connector and the second electrical connector are arranged such that one or more solar cells associated with a first elongate side support having the first coupling portion engaged therewith can engage with the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector; and wherein the third electrical connector and the fourth electrical connector are arranged such that one or more solar cells associated with a second elongate side support having the second coupling portion engaged therewith can engage with the third electrical connector and the fourth electrical connector.

17. The window corner spacer according to claim 16, wherein, The first electrical connector and the fourth electrical connector are electrically connected together, and the second electrical connector and the third electrical connector are electrically connected together.

18. The window corner spacer according to claim 16, when dependent on claim 15, wherein, The first electrical connector and the second electrical connector are electrically connected together and electrically connected to the electrical feedthrough, and the third electrical connector and the fourth electrical connector are electrically connected together and electrically connected to the electrical feedthrough separate from the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector.

19. A coupling element for coupling together elongate side supports which, in use, are located between a first window pane and a second window pane in a window unit, the coupling element comprising: A coupling body having a first side and a second side opposite the first side; A first coupling portion extending from the first side of the body in a first direction and a second coupling portion extending from the second side of the body in a second direction opposite the first direction, the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion being configured to be received in separate elongate side supports and coupled to the elongate side supports, and in use, each elongate side support supports one or more solar cells; and A first elongate protrusion on a lateral side of the first coupling portion and a second elongate protrusion on a lateral side of the second coupling portion, the first elongate protrusion and the second elongate protrusion being configured to form an interference fit with corresponding elongate side supports.

20. The coupling element according to claim 19, further comprising a first electrical connector extending from the first side of the body to the second side and a second electrical connector extending from the first side of the body to the second side, the second electrical connector being electrically isolated from the first electrical connector.

21. A window unit spacer system for spacing apart a first window pane and a second window pane in a window unit, the spacer system comprising: One or more window corner spacers according to any one of claims 1 to 18.

22. The window unit spacer system according to claim 21, further comprising a coupler according to claim 19 or 20.

23. A window unit for a building or structure, the window unit comprising: A first panel and a second panel, each of the first panel and the second panel having a region transparent to at least a portion of visible light; The window spacer system according to claim 21 or 22, wherein one or more elongate side spacer portions and one or more elongate side support members are joined to the one or more corner spacers, and Wherein the first panel and the second panel are spaced apart and adhered to at least one of the one or more elongate side spacer portions, one or more elongate side support members, and the one or more corner spacers such that a cavity is formed between the first panel and the second panel.

24. A window unit for a building or structure, the window unit comprising: A first panel and a second panel, each panel having a region transparent to at least a portion of visible light; And A spacer structure at least partially located between the first panel and the second panel, the spacer structure including elongate side spacer portions and corner spacer portions, the elongate side spacer portions and the corner spacer portions together forming a spacer structure surrounding the space between the first panel and the second panel; Wherein at least one of the elongate side spacer portion and the corner spacer portion includes an electrical feedthrough for guiding electricity between a first electrical component located outside the window unit and a second electrical component located at or within the window unit, and at least one of the elongate side spacer portion and the corner spacer portion having the electrical feedthrough is sealed in such a way as to prevent transfer of a gaseous medium such as air through at least one of the elongate side spacer portion and the corner spacer portion having the electrical feedthrough.

25. The window unit according to claim 24, wherein, At least one of the corner spacer portions includes the electrical feedthrough.

26. The window unit according to claim 24 or 25, including the second electrical component.

27. The window unit according to any one of claims 24 to 26, wherein, The electrical feedthrough is hermetically sealed in at least one of the elongate side spacer portion and the corner spacer portion including the electrical feedthrough.

28. The window unit according to any one of claims 24 to 27, including a support structure for supporting a solar cell.

29. The window unit according to claim 28, wherein, At least one of the corner spacer portions includes the electrical feedthrough, wherein the support structure includes elongate side support elements, the elongate side support elements being joined to the corner spacer portions using suitable couplers, and wherein the elongate side spacer portions joined to the corner spacer portions are separate from, joined to, or form part of the corresponding elongate side support elements.

30. The window unit according to claim 28, wherein, At least one of the side spacer parts includes the electrical feedthrough, wherein the support structure includes an elongate side support element, the elongate side support element being connectable to the corner spacer part using a suitable connector, wherein the elongate side spacer part is separate from, connected to, or forms part of the corresponding elongate side support element.

31. The window unit according to claim 29 or 30, wherein, The corner spacer part and / or the elongate side support element includes a recess and / or a groove for receiving a part of the solar cell.

32. The window unit according to any one of claims 24 to 31, wherein, The corner spacer part and the elongate side spacer part are arranged such that when the elongate side spacer part and the corner spacer part are joined together, a gaseous medium such as air is prevented from passing through the elongate side spacer part or the corner spacer part.

33. The window unit according to any one of claims 24 to 32, wherein, The second electrical component is located within the space enclosed by the spacer structure between the first panel and the second panel.

34. The window unit according to any one of claims 24 to 33, comprising a solar cell located between the first panel and the second panel.

35. The window unit according to any one of claims 24 to 34, wherein, The first panel and the second panel are joined to the spacer structure using a sealant adhesive, and a layer of sealant adhesive is applied to a part of the spacer structure and the edge parts of the first panel and the second panel, thereby forming a main seal and sealing the interior space of the window unit in such a way as to at least substantially prevent a gaseous medium such as air from transferring into the interior space.

36. The window unit according to claim 28 or according to any one of claims 29 to 35, wherein, The first panel and the second panel have edge parts, and wherein, at each edge part, one, two, or three solar cells are supported by the support structure.

37. The window unit according to claim 28 or according to any one of claims 29 to 36, wherein, The support structure is arranged such that at least one solar cell is positioned at an angled orientation relative to the main surface of the first panel.

38. The window unit according to claim 28 or according to any one of claims 29 to 37, wherein, The spacer structure and the support structure are entirely located between the first panel and the second panel.

39. The window unit according to claim 28 or according to any one of claims 29 to 38, wherein, The support structure and the solar cells are positioned in the form of strips along the edge of the first panel and around a central rectangular area without solar cells.

40. The window unit according to any one of claims 24 to 39, wherein, The spacer structure is a first spacer structure, and the window unit includes a second spacer structure and a third panel, the third panel being positioned parallel to the first panel and the second panel and spaced apart from the second panel by the second spacer structure.

41. The window unit according to claim 40, wherein, The second spacer structure is located between the second panel and the third panel and includes elongate side spacer parts and corner spacer parts, the elongate side spacer parts and the corner spacer parts being joined together to form the second spacer structure surrounding the space between the third panel and the second panel.

42. The window unit according to any one of claims 24 to 41, wherein, The window unit is arranged such that the central region of the window is transparent to at least most visible light, the central region being at least 5, 10, 15, 20, 50, 100, or even 500 times larger in area than the panel on which the solar cells are located.

43. The window unit according to any one of claims 24 to 42, wherein, The second electrical component includes at least one of a suspended particle device, an electrochromic coating, an electrofluidic material, a liquid crystal device or a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) material, and an electrophoretic material.

44. The window unit according to any one of claims 24 to 43, wherein, The at least one corner spacer portion further includes other electronic or electrical components such as diodes and batteries, a battery charging controller or a capacitor device for storing the electricity generated by the solar cell and / or control electronics for controlling the electrical components of the window unit.

45. The window unit according to any one of claims 24 to 44, wherein, The first edge region of the first panel extends beyond the projection of the perimeter of the second panel in the direction of the surface normal of the first panel.

46. The window unit according to any one of claims 24 to 45, wherein, The first panel includes parallel first and second component panel portions that are bonded together in a manner that avoids an air gap between the first and second component panel portions, and wherein at least a series of solar cells are located between the first and second component panels.

Images